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Science News Archive July 2024 - Page 39


Page 39 of 41

Crucial gaps in climate risk assessment methods

A study by University of Zurich researchers identified critical shortcomings in current climate risk assessment methods, which often rely on simplified and proxy data. The new methodology provides a more accurate picture of climate risks, highlighting the need for granular data in risk assessments.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 2, 2024

What do we need for better biodiversity monitoring in Europe?

A new study by iDiv-IIASA highlights the need for improved biodiversity monitoring in Europe, citing limitations such as fragmented efforts and lack of integrated data. The researchers identified key policy areas and solutions to address these challenges, including enhanced coordination, standardization, and stakeholder engagement.

American Indian/Alaska Native patients less likely to undergo breast reconstruction

A recent study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that American Indian/Alaska Native women have consistently lower rates of breast reconstruction after mastectomy compared to non-Hispanic White women. The disparity persists despite an upward trend in reconstruction rates, with AI/AN women being nearly half less likel...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJul 2, 2024

Upgraded durian genome reveals the role of chromosome reshuffling during ancestral karyotype evolution, lignin biosynthesis regulation, and stress tolerance

The study reconstructed an ancestral karyotype from 11 protochromosomes, showing that durian underwent chromosome reshuffling around 20 million years ago. The upgraded genome found expanded WGD genes enriched in lignin biosynthesis, promoting the development of characteristic fruit spines.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateJul 2, 2024

A new breakthrough in understanding regeneration in a marine worm

A research team led by a CNRS scientist has observed that gut cells play a role in the regeneration of intestine and other tissues like muscle and epidermis. The study found that gut cell plasticity varies according to their location, with those closer to the posterior end rebuilding more diverse cell types.

SourceCNRS·JournalDevelopment·DateJul 2, 2024

Proteins and fats can drive insulin production for some, paving way for tailored nutrition

Researchers found that individual responses to proteins and fats can drive insulin production, challenging the long-held belief that fats have negligible effects on insulin release. This study has implications for tailored dietary guidance to manage blood sugar and insulin levels in individuals with diabetes or those at risk.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeObservational study·DateJul 2, 2024

Optoelectronics gain spin control from chiral perovskites and III-V semiconductors

Scientists at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory have made advances in optoelectronics by integrating a III-V semiconductor optoelectronic structure with a chiral halide perovskite semiconductor. This breakthrough enables control over electron spin, which can be used to increase data processing speeds and decrease power consumption.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2024

SRI is developing a new malaria treatment that aims to protect from the disease

Researchers at SRI International have developed a novel injectable formulation for malaria treatment that provides months of protection against the disease. The formulation has shown to maintain high concentrations of the anti-malarial drug ELQ-331 in the bloodstream, overcoming issues with resistance and patient compliance.

SourceSRI International·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences·DateJul 2, 2024

An out-of-Africa story hiding in our DNA

A recent study found that a genetic variant associated with obesity risk also influences thermogenesis in humans, suggesting an African origin story linked to adapting to cold environments. The research team analyzed the rs1421085 T>C variant and its correlation with human migration routes.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalLife Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2024

Dual inhibition of cAMP responsive element binding protein 3 on AKT signaling supresses the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma

Researchers discovered that CREB3 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression by suppressing AKT signaling through interaction with the insulin receptor and transcriptional activation of RBM38. Lower CREB3 expression in HCC tissues was associated with poorer outcomes.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2024

Advancing toward a preventative HIV vaccine

Researchers conducted four preclinical studies indicating they're closer to an immunization regimen that could produce rare antibodies effective against a wide range of HIV strains. The findings build on a 2022 phase I clinical trial and represent a key step forward in an immunization strategy that could protect against the virus.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2024

Subnormal serum liver enzyme levels

Subnormal serum liver enzyme levels can result from deficiencies in pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (vitamin B6), as well as conditions such as chronic kidney disease. Recognizing these patterns is crucial for early diagnosis and management of diseases, allowing for targeted treatments and improved patient outcomes.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJul 2, 2024

USDA, university researchers develop near chromosome-level genome for the Mojave poppy bee

Scientists have developed a near chromosome-level genome for the Mojave poppy bee, which is a specialist pollinator of conservation concern. The genome assembly will help researchers understand the bee's biological traits, including host-plant specialization and susceptibility to pesticides.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalJournal of Heredity·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2024

Editorial: Genomics has more to reveal

A new editorial paper discusses molecular and cytogenetic analyses used to identify distinct subtypes of acute myeloid leukemias (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Researchers found that around 15% of AML cases remain genetically unclassifiable, emphasizing the need for further research.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 2, 2024

Extreme temperatures becoming more common in Ireland, Maynooth University study finds

A recent study by Maynooth University has found that extreme temperatures in Ireland have increased significantly over the past few decades. The research reveals that temperature events of 33 degrees Celsius have become a regular occurrence, with some areas experiencing them every 9 years, up from once every 180 years in 1942.

SourceMaynooth University·JournalJournal Of The Royal Statistical Society·TypeObservational study·DateJul 2, 2024

The Mediterranean Diet is linked to lower risk of mortality in cancer survivors

An Italian study found that adherence to the Mediterranean Diet after a cancer diagnosis is associated with reduced mortality, especially from cardiovascular disease. Participants who followed a high-Mediterranean-Diet pattern had a 32% lower risk of mortality compared to those with lower adherence.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalJACC CardioOncology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 2, 2024

Watching others’ biased behavior unconsciously creates prejudice

Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam found that observing prejudiced individuals interact with group members can lead to the formation of similar prejudices. Observers often go on to act with prejudice without realizing they've been influenced, misperceiving worse behavior from group members who interacted with a prejudiced actor.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2024

AI model finds the cancer clues at lightning speed

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg developed an AI model called Candycrunch to automate the analysis of glycan structures in cancer cells. The model can identify abnormal structures and biomarkers in just a few seconds, accelerating the discovery of new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 1, 2024

Physical exercise prevents nerve damage during chemotherapy

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that specific exercise concomitant with chemotherapy can prevent nerve damage in many cases. The exercises reduced the incidence of CIPN (chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy) by 50-70% and improved patients' perceived quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 1, 2024

Largest ever genetic study of age of puberty in girls shows links with weight gain

A large-scale genetic study has found a significant link between the age of puberty in girls and weight gain, highlighting potential risks for early puberty and obesity. The study identified over 1,000 genetic variants that influence the age of first menstrual period, with around 600 being observed for the first time.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 1, 2024

New UAV-based method enhances wheat uniformity monitoring and yield prediction

A research team developed an innovative UAV-based method to quantify wheat uniformity, estimating leaf area index, SPAD, fractional vegetation cover, and plant height. The approach showed strong correlations between specific indices and yield and biomass predictions, outperforming models using mean values.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Following your nose into the swarm

Researchers from the University of Konstanz discovered that locusts adapt their sense of smell when they switch to a gregarious lifestyle. This adaptation allows them to better detect food odours in the swarm's complex environment, enabling them to find food despite being in a crowded swarm.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 2024

Palliative care beneficial to manage symptoms, improve quality of life for people with CVD

A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the benefits of palliative care in managing symptoms and improving quality of life for people with cardiovascular disease. Palliative care complements standard cardiovascular care by reducing physical symptoms, emotional distress, and assisting patients in making decision...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJul 1, 2024

Researchers thwart resistant bacteria’s strategy

A team of researchers from the University of Southern Denmark has discovered a mechanism that reduces the formation of biofilm on the surface of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium commonly found in hospitals and resistant to most antibiotics. The biofilm-reducing system is naturally stimulated by cell wall stress, and its discovery of...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Nanorobot with hidden weapon kills cancer cells

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed nanorobots that target and kill cancer cells using a 'kill switch' activated in low pH environments. The study achieved a 70% reduction in tumour growth in mice, paving the way for further investigation into its potential as a cancer treatment.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Portable engine powers artificial muscles in assistive devices

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a lightweight fluidic engine that can power muscle-mimicking soft robots for use in assistive devices. The new engine generates significant force and is untethered to an external power source, making it particularly attractive for improving people's ability to move their upp...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Geoscientists dig into why we may be alone in the Milky Way

A study by University of Texas at Dallas geoscientist Dr. Robert Stern and colleague Taras Gerya suggests that plate tectonics, oceans, and continents are necessary for the evolution of intelligent civilizations. The researchers propose refining the Drake equation factor to account for these requirements, which could explain the Fermi ...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJul 1, 2024