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Science News for June 17, 2024


New technology allows researchers to precisely, flexibly modulate brain

A new technology combining holographic acoustic devices with genetic engineering allows precise targeting of affected neurons in the brain, potentially treating neurodegenerative diseases. The technique, AhSonogenetics, uses a noninvasive wearable ultrasound device to alter genetically selected neurons in mice, alleviating Parkinson's-...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2024

Potential new treatment option for diabetic retinopathy

Researchers have developed a new treatment for diabetic retinopathy that addresses the root cause of the disease, preventing progression and potential blindness. The anti-ceramide immunotherapy has been shown to be effective in animal and cell culture models, offering a safer alternative to current treatments.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

The declining diet of Japan’s youth

Researchers found a negative association between highly processed food consumption and healthy eating among Japanese children and adolescents, with confectioneries positively correlated. The study suggests that reducing processed food intake could be beneficial for public health.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeObservational study·DateJun 17, 2024

A million light years and still going

Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have discovered that the rotation curves of galaxies remain flat for millions of light years, defying expectations and challenging traditional understanding of cosmology. This finding suggests that dark matter may not exist or that alternative gravity theories could explain this phenomenon.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 17, 2024

Wildfire smoke and health

Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of wildfires in Canada, resulting in increased exposure to hazardous wildfire smoke. Health care practitioners play a crucial role in mitigating the health effects of wildfire smoke by providing guidance and support to vulnerable populations.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 17, 2024

AI shows how field crops develop

The University of Bonn has developed an AI software that can simulate the growth of field crops using drone photos. This allows farmers to estimate parameters such as leaf area or yield with high accuracy, and even predict the outcome of certain interventions. The software also focuses on polycultures, which can boost yields by reducin...

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPlant Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 17, 2024

Previously uncharacterized parasite uncovered in fish worldwide

A new group of parasites, ichthyocolids, have been discovered in many marine fish species around the world, according to a recent study published in Current Biology. The parasite is widespread and has been found in all oceans, with potential implications for commercial fishing and oceanic food webs.

Duke-NUS study reveals high use of physical restraints in home care for older adults with dementia

A new Duke-NUS study found that nearly half of caregivers reported using physical restraints on family members with advanced dementia living at home. The study highlights the need for better guidance and support to prevent the use of restraints, which can impact older adults' physical and psychological health.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·TypeObservational study·DateJun 17, 2024

Golden ball mills as green catalysts

The study introduces a new method for selectively oxidizing alcohols into aldehydes without secondary reactions, using gold-coated ball mills. This approach reduces the formation of unwanted byproducts and minimizes environmental impact, making it more sustainable and cost-effective.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Researchers shed light on cause of 'happy hypoxia' in COVID-19 patients

A team of researchers has made a breakthrough discovery about the mysterious condition known as 'happy hypoxia,' which affects some COVID-19 patients despite critically low blood-oxygen saturation. Elevated hemoglobin levels in certain patients' blood may play a key role in enabling the respiratory system to sustain low oxygen levels w...

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalBiological Cybernetics·DateJun 17, 2024

Repurposed drug may help stabilize vision in rare disease

Researchers find that a repurposed drug, crizanlizumab, stabilizes vision in patients with retinal vasculopathy with cerebral leukoencephalopathy and systemic manifestations (RVCL-S) after two years of treatment. The study suggests that this may give patients additional years to read, drive, and enjoy activities.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 17, 2024

New screening tool could improve the survival rate of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma from 20% to 90%

A new machine-learning model using serum fusion-gene levels predicts HCC with an accuracy of 83-91%, significantly improving upon current biomarkers like serum alpha-fetal protein. This breakthrough tool may help identify patients at risk and monitor cancer recurrence, leading to improved survival rates.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 17, 2024

Sleep disorders in childhood increase the risk of developing symptoms of attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity

A study of over 1,200 children found a strong association between childhood sleep disorders and the development of attention deficit disorder (ADHD) symptoms. The research suggests that detecting sleep disorders at an early stage could help prevent or mitigate future ADHD symptoms.

SourceUniversitat Jaume I·JournalEuropean Journal of Pediatrics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 17, 2024

Paternal use of metformin during sperm production not associated with major birth defects

A study of almost 400,000 live births found that paternal use of metformin monotherapy was not significantly associated with major congenital malformations. However, researchers noted that fathers prescribed metformin had higher rates of cardiovascular and metabolic conditions, which could affect reproductive health.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateJun 17, 2024

Finding hidden genetic treasure: Study uncovers untapped diversity in historic wheat collection

A decade-long study has discovered a vast untapped genetic potential in modern wheat varieties, revealing that at least 60% of the genetic diversity found in a historic collection is unused. This discovery provides an unprecedented opportunity to improve modern wheat and sustainably feed a growing global population. The study used a cr...

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

AI recognizes athletes’ emotions

Researchers developed an emotion analysis model that can identify affective states with high accuracy using convolutional neural networks. The study shows that AI algorithms may be better at recognizing negative emotions than humans, but raises ethical concerns about data privacy and misuse.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalKnowledge-Based Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Ancient polar sea reptile fossil is oldest ever found in Southern Hemisphere

A 246 million-year-old nothosaur vertebra was discovered on New Zealand's South Island, shedding new light on early sea reptiles from the Southern Hemisphere. The find reveals that these marine reptiles originated near the equator and rapidly spread to other regions, challenging long-standing hypotheses about their migration patterns.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 17, 2024

Face screening tool detects stroke in seconds

A new AI-powered smartphone tool can detect stroke in seconds, improving diagnosis time and reducing permanent brain damage. The tool uses facial expression recognition to identify patients who need prompt treatment.

SourceRMIT University·JournalComputer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine·TypeObservational study·DateJun 17, 2024

Computable species descriptions: scientists develop a new computer language to model organismal traits

Researchers create special language Phenoscript to describe traits in a way that both humans and computers can understand. This allows for large-scale studies of organismal traits, boosting the emerging field of phenomics. The new language is being tested and aims to integrate semantic species descriptions with nanopublications.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateJun 17, 2024

Cancers associated with human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major cause of several cancers, with cervical cancer being the most prominent. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types can lead to malignant transformation. Vaccination and screening programs are crucial in preventing HPV-related cancers.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalExploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine·DateJun 17, 2024

A new approach to neuroimaging analysis

A new method in neuroimaging analysis allows researchers to predict cognition and behavioral variables using smaller datasets, contrary to the long-held belief that thousands of participants are needed. The technique involves examining MRI data to find associations with behaviors and then applying predictions to an independent sample.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateJun 17, 2024

Origins of cumulative culture in human evolution

Researchers at Arizona State University found that human cumulative culture began to rapidly accumulate technological knowledge around 600,000 years ago. This allowed human populations to build on and recombine the solutions of prior generations, leading to complex solutions and organized institutions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 17, 2024

Spinning up hurricane communications

Researchers found that early forecast information sets the stage for how people react to subsequent warning messages, and authoritative sources can better engage at-risk community members. The study identified the most effective types of images in conveying hurricane risks, with the 'cone of uncertainty' being the most retweeted graphic.

Nile perch invasion triggered genetic bottlenecks in Lake Victoria's endemic cichlids

The introduction of Nile perch to Lake Victoria led to severe population loss and genetic bottlenecks in local cichlid species. The study reveals that four species experienced a 'bottleneck event' resulting in reduced genetic diversity, highlighting the devastating impact of exotic species invasion.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

"Lost" birds list will aid in protecting species

A group of scientists has released a first-of-its-kind list of bird species that haven't been seen in over a decade, using public media databases. The study found 144 species, mostly threatened with extinction, with most concentrated in Asia, Africa, and Oceania.

SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 17, 2024

US sexual health curriculum could force LGBTQ+ students to seek potentially inaccurate education outside of school

A new study reveals that US sexual health curricula are leaving LGBTQ+ students without essential information, leading them to seek advice from unreliable sources. Experts argue that addressing this negligence could be life-saving and urge policymakers to include LGBTQ+ content in curricula.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·TypeSurvey·DateJun 17, 2024

$14.8 million grant supports Illinois-Singapore partnership on precision fermentation for food

Researchers from University of Illinois and National Research Foundation are developing precision fermentation technology to convert sugars and inedible crop parts into nutritious food molecules. The project aims to improve food supply chain resilience, reduce environmental impacts, and address global micronutrient deficiencies.

Researchers discover potential mole reversal therapy in rare condition

Researchers at Francis Crick Institute develop a new genetic therapy that silences mutated NRAS gene in cells with congenital melanocytic naevus syndrome (CMN), potentially reversing debilitating giant moles. The treatment has shown promising results in mice and could be used to reduce cancer risk in affected children and adults.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateJun 17, 2024

Rapid test of cerebrospinal fluid decreases time to diagnosis for brain tumors

Researchers developed a rapid genotyping test for patients with central nervous system lesions, detecting key mutations associated with brain cancers in samples taken during a lumbar puncture. The test eliminated the need for surgical brain biopsies in seven cases and significantly accelerated time to treatment, from an average of 12 d...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Artificial intelligence accurately screens heart failure patients for clinical trial eligibility

Researchers at Mass General Brigham developed a generative AI process that screens patients for clinical trial eligibility with high accuracy and reduced cost. The process, called RECTIFIER, was compared to traditional screening methods and found to be more accurate and cost-effective, with an estimated cost of $0.11 per patient.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNEJM AI·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 17, 2024

How targeted nutrients can fight cancer

Researchers discovered a new way to effectively treat melanoma using nutrients to reactivate suppressed metabolic pathways in cancer cells. The innovative treatment, involving tyrosine nanomicelles, showed promising results in mice and lab-derived human cells, inhibiting tumour growth and reducing glycolysis.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

International Gemini Observatory and Subaru combine forces to discover first ever pair of merging quasars at cosmic dawn

The International Gemini Observatory and Subaru Telescope have discovered the most distant pair of merging quasars, seen only 900 million years after the Big Bang. The team used follow-up spectroscopy to confirm the nature of the quasar pair and their host galaxies.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 17, 2024

Research into structures of ape hearts provide insight into human evolution

A study comparing human hearts to those of great apes has found that the human heart is more streamlined due to higher demands for blood flow and thermal regulation. This suggests that human hearts may have evolved differently from their primate ancestors in response to unique ecological pressures.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 17, 2024

Significant reduction in alcohol consumption among young excessive drinkers: personalized alcohol-reduction advice based on genetic information

A study published in BMC Medicine found that personalized alcohol-reduction advice based on genetic information significantly reduced alcohol consumption among young excessive drinkers. The intervention group showed lower alcohol consumption and AUDIT-C scores compared to the control group, with continued reductions in scores over time.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJun 17, 2024

Federal study examines care following nonfatal overdose among Medicare beneficiaries; identifies effective interventions and gaps in care

Researchers found that medications for opioid use disorder, naloxone, and behavioral health supports significantly reduce the risk of dying from an overdose. However, significant gaps in care were noted, with only 4% of beneficiaries receiving medications after experiencing a nonfatal overdose.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 17, 2024

Constrained clustering with weak label prior

A new research proposes a constrained Clustering with Weak Label Prior (CWLP) to improve clustering performance by incorporating compound weak label prior information. The approach combines pairwise constraints and cluster ratio information, achieving superior results on benchmark datasets.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Ensuring ‘pediatric readiness’ in emergency departments costs little and saves lives

A new study finds that pediatric readiness in emergency departments can significantly reduce mortality by up to 76% while requiring a low annual cost of implementation, ranging from $23,775 to $145,521. Hospitals with high pediatric readiness can improve survival rates without breaking the bank.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open·DateJun 17, 2024

Pancreatic cancer’s cellular amnesia

Researchers have discovered that a protein called MED12 plays a critical role in pancreatic cancer's development, particularly in basal-like cells. The study builds on decades of research at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, which previously identified the importance of p63 for basal cell formation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 17, 2024