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Science News for June 11, 2024


AI model may yield better outcomes for prostate cancer

A new AI model has been shown to significantly improve the accuracy of diagnosing prostate cancer by 45 times compared to doctors' measurements alone. The system assists in mapping out the boundaries of cancerous tissue, reducing the risk of underestimation and enabling more precise treatment planning and effective surgical procedures.

Pilot study in JNCCN explores new approach for reducing anxiety and improving quality of life after stem cell transplantation

Researchers developed a nine-week, phone-delivered positive psychology program called PATH to improve psychological well-being in blood cancer patients. The intervention had promising effects on patient-reported outcomes, with high participation and completion rates.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateJun 11, 2024

Pennington Biomedical Research Center recruiting participants for lipedema research study

The Pennington Biomedical Research Center is conducting a clinical trial to better understand lipedema. Participants will undergo comprehensive assessments and imaging techniques to help advance medical knowledge related to chronic disease. Compensation of up to $475 is offered for participation in the three-month study.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·TypeObservational study·DateJun 11, 2024

Research on the visual rabbit illusion takes a leap forward

Researchers from Kyushu University discovered new conditions for a three-flash illusion, where the brain misperceives the second flash as near the midpoint between the first and third flashes. This phenomenon occurs regardless of the second flash's location, highlighting the complexity of visual perception.

SourceKyushu University·Journali-Perception·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Adding genetic information to health checks improves identification of people at risk of heart attacks and strokes

Researchers have discovered a better way to identify those at high risk of potential heart attacks and strokes by adding genetic information to health checks. The study found that combining clinical risk scores with polygenic risk scores significantly improves identification rates, especially among younger people.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 11, 2024

Virus-like nanoparticles control the multicellular organization and reproduction of host bacteria

Researchers discovered that Streptomyces davawensis produces virus-like particles facilitating host reproduction. The particles contain an enzyme degrading genomic DNA, allowing for extracellular DNA release and scaffold creation. This finding reveals the exploitation mechanism of virus-related nanoparticles for bacterial proliferation.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 11, 2024

Nearly 1 in 4 people with a history of bipolar disorder achieve complete mental health

A study by the University of Toronto found that 43% of Canadians with a history of bipolar disorder were symptom-free and 23.5% had achieved complete mental health. Factors contributing to psychological flourishing included having a trusted confidant, using spirituality as coping mechanisms, and absence of disabling chronic pain.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders Reports·TypeSurvey·DateJun 11, 2024

Specialist and migratory birds at greater risk under climate change

A new study analyzing historical data on biodiversity and climate for North America reveals a significant negative impact of climate change on birds. Specialist and migratory species are particularly at risk, with projected declines ranging from 2-16% by century's end due to habitat loss, pollution, and changes in food supply.

New study shows the power of social connections to predict hit songs

Researchers at the Complexity Science Hub analyzed friendships and listening habits to find social networks are a crucial predictor of song popularity. The study showed that individuals with strong influence and large friend circles accelerate a song's popularity, making social connections a key factor in music trends.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 11, 2024

Shaping nanoparticles with enzymes

Scientists at Hokkaido University have created a new technique for building nanoparticles using enzymes, enabling the production of various nanomaterials with controlled size and properties. This method has potential applications in technology, medicine, and quantum computing.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNanoscale Horizons·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Researchers at Houston Methodist find survival improves with open radical hysterectomy in early-stage cancer

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology finds that open radical hysterectomy leads to better survival and lower recurrence rates for early-stage cervical cancer patients. The research, led by Houston Methodist researchers, builds on earlier findings that suggested minimally invasive surgery carries a higher risk of di...

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 11, 2024

From seashells to cement, nature inspires tougher building material

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new cement composite that mimics the strength and flexibility of seashells, increasing crack resistance and ductility. The composite, inspired by nacre's microstructure, exhibits improved fracture toughness and deformability, making it potentially tougher, safer, and more durable.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

OHIO researchers explore alignment between hospitals and public health departments in addressing community health needs in paper published in “Health Affairs”

Researchers found low alignment between hospitals and health departments, particularly concerning social determinants of health, despite both entities having formal responsibilities to their communities. The top identified health needs included mental health, substance use, and obesity.

SourceOhio University·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 11, 2024

Revolutionizing energy conversion: Pt-Co@NCS catalyst unveils breakthrough synergy for enhanced alkaline hydrogen evolution

A new Pt-Co@NCS catalyst achieves exceptional performance in alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction, overcoming slow water dissociation. The unique porous structure and nitrogen-rich surface enhance hydrophilicity and catalytic interaction, promoting efficient water dissociation.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Coptis teeta Wall.: A comprehensive overview of its traditional uses, pharmacological uses, phytochemicals and conservation

Coptis teeta Wall. has been traditionally used to treat malaria, stomach ache, diarrhea, skin conditions, eye disorders, and gastrointestinal issues. The plant's compounds have shown antibacterial activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and potential in treating chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalFuture Integrative Medicine·DateJun 11, 2024

Transparent organic–inorganic hybrid photoresist with highly tunable refractive index for advanced display

Researchers at Beijing University of Chemical Technology and BOE Technology Group Co., Ltd. have developed a novel transparent organic-inorganic hybrid photoresist with a highly tunable refractive index of up to 2.0, allowing for precision machining of optical microstructures and improving display device efficiency. The material exhibi...

SourceEngineering·JournalEngineering·DateJun 11, 2024

Cognitive test is poor predictor of athletes’ concussion

A study by University of Washington School of Medicine found that a cognitive test is an inaccurate predictor of athletes' concussions. Instead, symptom reports were the most accurate indicator of concussion. The study involved 92 NCAA Division I athletes who sustained a concussion and their teammates as matched control subjects.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Inclusive education improves students' socio-emotional skills

A comprehensive study by researchers at the University of Córdoba found that teachers' commitment to inclusive education positively impacts students' socio-emotional skills. The study, involving over 3,500 students and 294 teachers, reveals the decisive role of teachers in boosting social-emotional skills through inclusive education.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalLearning and Instruction·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Use of WhatsApp messages by public health service to treat depression in older people produces results, study shows

A new WhatsApp-based program has shown significant improvements in treating depression among older adults in Brazil. The Viva Vida program used simple audio messages and images to provide education on depression and behavioral activation, with a 10-point improvement in symptom reduction between intervention and control groups.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 11, 2024

Chinese wisdom and modern innovation of aquaculture

This study introduces modern innovations in Chinese aquaculture, focusing on genetic breeding, fertility biotechnology, polyculture, eco-agriculture, smart aquaculture, and eco-engineered aquaculture. The research proposes ten paradigm changes to promote sustainable aquaculture development and global food security.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater Biology and Security·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 11, 2024

New technique could help build quantum computers of the future

Researchers have developed a method to create and control optical qubits in silicon with high precision, enabling the fabrication of reliable quantum computers. This breakthrough could advance quantum computing and networking capabilities, paving the way for breakthroughs in human health, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

AI and socioeconomic inequalities

Generative AI has both positive and negative effects on social equality, impacting work, education, healthcare, information, and misinformation. Policymakers are urged to implement policies such as tax code changes, data unions, and anti-misinformation campaigns to ensure the technology is used to increase equality

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 11, 2024

Buck researchers explore how the immune system goes awry during space travel and the implications for human aging on earth

Scientists studied how microgravity impacts human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and identified potential compounds to counter its effects, including the antioxidant quercetin. The findings have implications for immune aging on Earth and provide a resource for developing countermeasures.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Monitoring shows chikungunya epidemics can be predicted by means of surveillance

A study in São Paulo state found that chikungunya virus circulated silently for years before causing major epidemics. The researchers monitored residents for four years and discovered a significant rise in seroprevalence from 0.35% to 2.3%. This finding underscores the need for strengthened disease surveillance.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 11, 2024

A mountainous mystery uncovered in SA’s pink sands

A University of Adelaide research team used a new method to date garnet grains in South Australian pink sand, revealing they are around 590 million years old. This age does not match local geological events, suggesting the garnet originated from an unknown ancient Antarctic mountain belt beneath the ice sheet.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 11, 2024

Few UK people likely to be suitable for new Alzheimer’s drugs when they come on stream

New Alzheimer's drugs aim to halt condition progression, but UK patients may face limited eligibility due to lack of biomarker testing and diagnostic scans. The study suggests that over 20,000 people per year will need access to confirmatory investigations to determine suitability for treatment.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 11, 2024

Study reveals significant increasing nitrous-oxide emissions from human activities, jeopardizing climate goals

Nitrous-oxide emissions have increased by 40% over the past four decades, resulting in accelerating atmospheric accumulation of this potent greenhouse gas. Agricultural production is the largest source of emissions, and improving practices can help reduce nitrous-oxide emissions and water pollution.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEarth System Science Data·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 11, 2024

New ACAAI position paper examines safety of receiving live vaccines while on dupilumab

The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) has issued a position paper on the safety of administering live vaccines to patients treated with dupilumab. The review suggests that treatment should not be stopped, but rather, shared decision-making between doctors and patients is recommended to weigh risks and benefits.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 11, 2024

Clemson researchers tackle challenge in new quantum materials design

Researchers at Clemson University have developed a new noncentrosymmetric triangular-lattice magnet, CaMnTeO6, which displays strong quantum fluctuations and nonlinear optical responses. This breakthrough material has the potential to lead to advancements in solid-state quantum computing, spin-based electronics, resilient climate chang...

SourceClemson University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Price sensitivity to unhealthy foods

Research shows people with obesity are more sensitive to price when buying unhealthy foods, while those with normal weight are not. A 10% price hike on these categories can lead to a significant reduction in consumption, such as decreased frozen pizza purchases.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 11, 2024

Controlling the precise timing of electrical pulses may offer promise for treating mild traumatic brain injury

Scientists at Virginia Tech have discovered that controlling the precise timing of electrical pulses can rebalance synaptic connections between nerve cells, selectively up- or down-regulating those connections. This finding suggests potential avenues for more effective treatment strategies for mild traumatic brain injuries.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Book bans as political action

Research finds that banned books feature more characters of color than White authors, and are often children's books or non-fiction about social movements. The study suggests book banning is a symbolic tactic to galvanize conservative voters in competitive electoral districts.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 11, 2024

Origins of fast radio bursts come into focus through polarized light

A new study analyzing data from the Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) found that non-repeating FRBs appear to come from galaxies with modest densities and magnetic fields. This contradicts previous studies focused on repeating FRBs, suggesting a separate population or evolved versions of the same population.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 11, 2024

Surprisingly high levels of toxic gas found in Louisiana

Researchers from Johns Hopkins University found ethylene oxide concentrations thousands of times higher than EPA estimates, posing significant cancer risks to people living near facilities. The mobile lab measurements revealed alarming levels of the toxic gas in air and soil, highlighting the need for more accurate monitoring tools.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 11, 2024

Shedding light on the origin of a genetic variant underlying fungal infections

A recent study by Tokyo Medical and Dental University researchers suggests that a specific variant of the CARD9 gene prevalent across northern China, Korea, and Japan may have originated from a common ancestor. The c.820dup variant was found to be relatively common in China and has been estimated to be between 2,000 and 4,000 years old...

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Clinical Immunology·DateJun 11, 2024

A CNIC team has created an innovative tool for the reliable and efficient study of gene function

A CNIC team has developed iSuRe-HadCre, a novel genetic tool that enables precise and efficient gene modification in mouse models. This new technology overcomes limitations of existing methods, offering improved efficiency, precision, and applicability in biomedical research.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Developmental supports crucial for young victims of child abuse

A new study highlights the importance of providing developmental supports to young victims of serious child abuse before they start school. Researchers found that children who were removed from their homes and entered out-of-home care were more likely to be developmentally delayed in some areas, but also vulnerable in other areas. The ...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 11, 2024

Human evolution and online morality

The internet exposes users to extreme morally relevant stimuli, causing empathy overload and public shaming. Research is needed on platform design features that sustain attention without inducing negative externalities.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 11, 2024

TLI Investigator Dr. Marianne Gausche-Hill co-authors new study revealing cost-effectiveness of pediatric readiness in emergency departments

A new study by Dr. Marianne Gausche-Hill reveals that pediatric readiness in emergency departments can decrease child mortality rates by up to 76% while being cost-effective, ranging from $4 to $48 per patient. The research emphasizes the importance of prioritizing pediatric care capabilities in emergency settings.

SourceThe Lundquist Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 11, 2024

Would astronauts’ kidneys survive a roundtrip to Mars?

A new study found that astronauts' kidneys are 'remodelled' by space flight, with permanent damage and loss of function possible after extended periods. The researchers' findings highlight the importance of kidney health in space travel and may lead to the development of new technologies or pharmaceutical measures to protect astronauts.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Humanitarian organizations showed flexibility and grit during COVID supply chain disruptions: study

During the pandemic, humanitarian organizations showed remarkable flexibility and ingenuity in responding to supply chain disruptions. They sourced supplies from local vendors, secured long-term contracts with reliable suppliers, and leveraged good relationships with governments to continue aid delivery.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia - Sauder School of Business·JournalInternational Journal of Operations & Production Management·TypeSurvey·DateJun 11, 2024

How do supermassive black holes get super massive?

A team of researchers used a hybrid approach to track the growth of supermassive black holes, finding that accretion dominated growth in most cases. Mergers made notable contributions, especially for massive black holes over the past 5 billion years.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Reading pleasure and pain from the brain

Using fMRI, researchers analyzed brain activity while participants experienced sustained pain and pleasure induced by capsaicin and chocolate fluids. The study identified common brain regions activated by both experiences and developed predictive models to capture affective intensity and valence information.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Safer virus helps eliminate cancer

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered an attenuated virus that can help eliminate cancer in mice and prevent future tumor development. The therapy works by raising 'red flags' on tumors to alert immune cells to attack them.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Should celebrities and influencers turn off their social media comments? A new study suggests they are less persuasive and likable when they do

Influencers who disable social media comments are perceived as less sincere, less receptive to consumer feedback, and incur professional consequences. This behavior can undermine their ability to connect with followers, even when the displayed comments are mostly negative in nature.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 11, 2024

Cosmic leap: NASA swift satellite and AI unravel the distance of the farthest gamma-ray bursts

Recent studies led by Maria Dainotti used machine learning models to measure the distance of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) with high precision. The research improved the accuracy of distance measurements, allowing scientists to better understand how stars evolve and how many GRBs can occur in a given space and time. By combining data from NA...

SourceThe Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 11, 2024

Decline in harmful ozone-depleting greenhouse gases

The study reveals a significant decline in hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), potent greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. HCFC emissions peaked in 2021 and have been decreasing since, with the US National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA) measuring a drop of less than 1% between 2021 and 2023.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeObservational study·DateJun 11, 2024

Heatwaves hit harder for people with disabilities: A Pusan National University study finds increased emergency visits

A Pusan National University study finds that heatwaves significantly impact public health among individuals with disabilities, increasing the risk of hospitalizations by 1.07 times. This results in a substantial economic burden, highlighting the need for well-informed public health policies to address these vulnerable groups.

SourcePusan National University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeObservational study·DateJun 11, 2024

Switching nanomagnets using infrared lasers

Researchers at TU Graz have calculated that metal phthalocyanine molecules generate tiny magnetic fields when irradiated with circularly polarized infrared light. The team aims to experimentally prove the principle, which could lead to high-precision optical switches for quantum computer circuits.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 11, 2024

Retraction notice of previously press released research

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on acupuncture for low back and/or pelvic pain during pregnancy has been retracted due to fundamental flaws in the research design and data extraction. The journal BMJ Open announced the retraction after multiple issues were raised following publication.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJun 11, 2024

Ultra-low dose PET protocol eliminates need for CT, uses dose 50 times lower than current standard

A new ultra-low dose imaging method with long axial field-of-view PET scanners can generate quantitative PET images without the need for accompanying CT scans, reducing radiation exposure to patients. The technique reduces the total effective dose by approximately 50 times lower than the standard PET dose.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 11, 2024

Promising role of antidiabetic drug in cancer control

Researchers found that metformin increases levels of microRNAs miR-2110 and miR-132-3p, targeting genes PIK3R3 and STMN1 to slow down cancer cell growth and division. This study provides new insights into metformin's molecular mechanisms and its potential as a preventive agent for reducing cancer growth.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCancers·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Computer scientists of Mainz University and the University of Chile cooperate to establish a reliable detection of programming errors

Researchers from Mainz University and the University of Chile are developing a new technique called Gradual Abstract Interpretation to improve program analysis methods and detect security vulnerabilities in WebAssembly. They aim to identify and address security vulnerabilities while eliminating redundant protective measures.

Looking to AI to solve antibiotic resistance

A team of researchers at Penn has developed an artificial intelligence tool that can mine the vast and largely unexplored biological data from over 10 million molecules to discover new candidates for antibiotics. The deep learning approach identified thousands of candidates in just a few hours, with many showing preclinical potential.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 11, 2024

Apps get better when developers diversify

Research from Texas McCombs finds that developers who multihome their software attract more users to the original product, improving its performance and standing out in the market. The study also shows that multihoming can lead to a 5.3% increase in average monthly usage for similar products.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateJun 11, 2024