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Science News for June 20, 2024


Risky drinking even riskier for women

A significant number of Australian women (over 300,000) are drinking at very high-risk levels, with a greater proportion of men consuming alcohol at similar rates. Women are more susceptible to health problems from excessive drinking and may be affected by their natural biological rhythms.

SourceFlinders University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 20, 2024

New study finds dinosaur fossils did not inspire the mythological griffin

A new study finds no connection between dinosaur fossils, specifically Protoceratops, and the origins of the griffin mythological creature. The researchers argue that the geographic spread of griffin art does not align with the proposed link, and there are no unambiguous references to Protoceratops fossils in ancient literature.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalInterdisciplinary Science Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 20, 2024

Slowing inflammation may boost immunotherapy’s effectiveness against advanced lung cancer

Researchers found that adding an anti-inflammatory drug to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy resulted in a high response rate of 67% among patients with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer. The study suggests that reducing chronic inflammation may improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 20, 2024

Innovative system enhances biological-artificial interactions in neurological research

A new tool, BioemuS, enables real-time emulation and hybridization of biological systems using biomimetic Spiking Neural Networks, addressing limitations of current pharmacological treatments. The system, developed through international collaboration, prioritizes cost efficiency and accessibility for closed-loop applications.

How E. coli defends itself against antibiotics

When E. coli detects damage from antibiotic Ciprofloxacin, it sends out an SOS signal that alters cellular activity. The bacteria then mutate their DNA to repair the damage or adapt to resist the antibiotic. Researchers studied this process in detail using bioreactors and found all genes are activated simultaneously at the protein level.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

In two separate clinical studies, combined immunotherapy approach enhances cancer patient response

Researchers found that adding JAK inhibitors to cancer checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapies improves patients' responses in two separate clinical studies. The combination therapy resulted in better clinical responses in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and those with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma.

Dense, swirling winds help supermassive black holes grow

Researchers discovered a rotating, magnetic wind that helps the galaxy's central supermassive black hole grow, similar to the birth of stars and planets. The study provides new clues to solving the mystery of how supermassive black holes grow, with potential implications for understanding galaxy evolution.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2024

BCMA-CD19 bispecific CAR-T therapy in refractory chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy

Researchers successfully used BCMA-CD19 bispecific CAR T cells to treat a patient with relapsed/refractory chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), resulting in almost full muscle power recovery and sustained disease remission. The treatment also demonstrated safety and efficacy, with no significant toxicity observed.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalhLife·DateJun 20, 2024

Guiding humanity beyond the moon: OHIO’s Nate Szewczyk and students coauthor papers published in “Nature” journals that revolutionize human space biology

A team of researchers, including OHIO's Nate Szewczyk and students, published a comprehensive package of papers in Nature journals that transform our understanding of human space biology. The studies reveal how molecular biology and precision medicine can guide humanity into more challenging missions beyond Earth.

SourceOhio University·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 20, 2024

Active magnetic bearings (AMB) vibration suppression: a breakthrough using adaptive filter with iterative search algorithm

Researchers developed an Adaptive Filter with Compensation (AFC) to suppress rotor vibrations in AMB systems, reducing amplitudes by up to 77% through simulations and experimental validations. This method paves the way for more reliable and efficient AMB systems, transforming high-precision industries.

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Cloud shift from day to night amplifies global warming

A recent study found that cloud cover changes more during the day than at night on a global scale, leading to increased greenhouse effect and amplified global warming. The asymmetry in cloud cover is attributed to stability in the lower troposphere due to rising greenhouse gas concentrations.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2024

Wild yeasts from Patagonia could yield new flavors of lagers

Researchers developed new lager yeasts by hybridizing brewer's yeast with Patagonian wild strains, which resulted in enhanced fermentation capacity and unique aroma profiles. The study provides a way to expand the range of currently available beer styles through wild yeast exploration.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Temperature estimation: permanent magnet temperature estimation for condition monitoring of PMSMs

Researchers developed a novel approach to estimate permanent magnet temperature (PMT) directly from measurements, simplifying implementation and improving accuracy. The method is computation-efficient, non-invasive, and independent from winding temperature rise and inverter distortion.

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2024

New cellular models of myotonic dystrophy type 1 reflect the clinical diversity of the disease

Researchers have developed three new cellular models of myotonic dystrophy type 1 that accurately represent the clinical diversity of the disease. The models show great heterogeneity in genetic expansion and molecular alterations, making them suitable for studying pathophysiology and testing therapeutic options.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Sugar-coating quantum systems to harvest science

A team of international scientists has developed a method to confine light inside an organic material, forming a hybrid quantum state. By using a planar resonator and depositing a thin glucose layer, the researchers created a strong interaction between light and glucose molecules in sugar, resulting in new physical properties.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

First time brown dwarfs seen so near host stars

For the first time, a team of French scientists has observed brown dwarfs orbiting very close to bright stars using precise astronomical imaging. The findings provide new insights into the formation of these unusual celestial objects and massive exoplanets.

SourceCNRS·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateJun 20, 2024

‘Like a hand fitting into a glove’: Purdue-engineered compound designed to treat drug-resistant acute myeloid leukemia

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a patent-pending compound called HSN748 to treat drug-resistant acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The compound has been validated in tests with IU School of Medicine and demonstrated 100% survivability after 120 days. AML is a cancer that begins in bone marrow and can be difficult to treat du...

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 20, 2024

Anti-trust regulators should consider their options carefully when start-ups are acquired, new study suggests

A new study from the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management suggests that blocking killer acquisitions may stifle innovation, as startups are driven to create new products or processes to be bought by big companies. Regulators are exploring less extreme options, such as taxing acquisitions or offering subsidies to startups.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalInternational Economic Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 2024

Researchers achieve practical 3D tracking at record-breaking speeds

Researchers have developed a new 3D method for fast-moving object tracking at unprecedented speeds, with potential applications in autonomous driving, industrial inspection and security surveillance. The approach uses single-pixel imaging to calculate the object's position in real-time, reducing data storage and computational costs.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 20, 2024

Discovery holds promise to restore function in people with paralysis and neurological diseases

Neuroscience researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a special type of human white blood cell that has the potential to regrow nerve fibers. The study found that these cells can triple the survival rate of stressed nerve cells and help slow or prevent progression of degenerative neurological conditions.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNature Immunology·DateJun 20, 2024

Exploring the relationship between civilians and military organizations through an experiment in Japan

A Japanese online survey experiment examines how public confidence in the military is affected by civilian control during an armed conflict. Participants showed significant loss of trust in the military when it deviated from civilian control, but not significantly when the legislature was involved.

SourceWaseda University·JournalJournal of Peace Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Government updates race and ethnicity data collection standards: implications and insights

The revised standards capture a broader range of communities, enabling more precise data collection and analysis to identify and address health disparities. This shift has significant implications for policy and practice, with the potential to direct resources towards communities facing the greatest health challenges.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHealth Equity·TypeCase study·DateJun 20, 2024

The time it takes a person to decide can predict their preference

A recent study published in PLOS Biology reveals that people can infer hidden social preferences by observing how fast others make social decisions. By analyzing response times and options, participants were able to predict the other person's preference even if they didn't know what choices were made.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Research to enable cheaper and safer battery storage

Researchers developed a unique electrochemical ultrasonic force microscopy (EC-UFM) technique to observe sodium-ion battery interfaces during operation. The new method guides passivating layer formation, preserving charge carrier transport and enhancing battery performance.

SourceLancaster University·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Model combines physical parameters and machine learning to predict storm tides

A new model developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo combines physical parameters and machine learning to predict storm tides. The model uses physics-informed machine learning, which harmonizes physical models with measured data to produce more precise forecasts.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProceedings of the AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence·DateJun 20, 2024

Wild chimpanzees seek out medicinal plants to treat illness and injuries

Chimpanzees have been observed seeking out specific plants with medicinal properties to treat their ailments, and further pharmacological testing has confirmed the presence of anti-inflammatory and antibiotic compounds. These findings highlight the importance of studying animal behavior in discovering new medicines.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2024

Creation of a power-generating, gel electret-based device

Researchers developed a gel electret capable of stably retaining electrostatic charge and combining it with flexible electrodes to create a vibration sensor. The device achieves an 83% increase in output voltage compared to previous alkyl–π liquid electret-based sensors, enabling potential use as wearable healthcare sensors.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Brain health is rooted in state of mind, finds study

A new study from Columbia University Irving Medical Center suggests that the brain's mitochondria play a fundamental part in translating feelings and experiences into physical changes. Researchers found that older adults with lower psychological stress had greater mitochondrial energy transformation machinery, linked to higher well-being.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2024

Old drugs new tricks

Researchers have identified a potent and unique way to kill drug-resistant bacteria using a repurposed compound called LEI-800. The compound targets the bacterial enzyme DNA gyrase, which is essential for bacterial growth and has not been targeted by existing antibiotics.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

An active equalization strategy for series-connected lithium-ion battery packs based on a dual threshold trigger mechanism

Researchers proposed an active equalization strategy to minimize cell inconsistencies in series-connected lithium-ion battery packs. The strategy utilizes a dual threshold trigger mechanism and energy transfer path optimization, significantly reducing cell inconsistencies and enhancing pack performance.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·DateJun 20, 2024

Can AI learn like us?

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory designed a new way for AI algorithms to move and process data more efficiently, inspired by the human brain. This design allows individual AI neurons to receive feedback and adjust on the fly, processing data in real-time.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalFrontiers in Computational Neuroscience·DateJun 20, 2024

New report on community-centered approach to providing vaccine education and resources to persons experiencing homelessness during COVID-19

A community-support model provided health resources and education to unhoused people in Boston, addressing gaps in healthcare access. The initiative showed the value of community-centered approaches in driving sustainable public health efforts.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeContent analysis·DateJun 20, 2024

When inflicting pain on others pays off T

A study by UC Riverside found that inflicting mild misfortune, such as getting drenched with ice water, increases charitable donations. The study also revealed that the level of deservingness and disdain for the person receiving the misfortune plays a crucial role in boosting donations.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2024

Blast from the past

Researchers have discovered a new source of resistance to the devastating wheat blast disease, leveraging a gene that also protects against powdery mildew. The Pm4 gene, found in European wheat varieties, confers dual protection against the pathogen and its effector molecule AVR-Rmg8.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Neatly packed for the cellular recycling center

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have identified a molecular mechanism in plant cellular recycling, crucial for managing environmental stress. The ESCRT machine plays a key role in sealing autophagosomes, allowing plants to recycle damaged cell components and recover valuable resources.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2024

Dietary sucrose determines activity of lithium on gene expression and lifespan in drosophila melanogaster

Researchers found that lithium's efficacy in enhancing longevity and altering body composition is influenced by the sucrose content of the diet. The study reveals a significant overlap between the transcriptional responses to increasing dietary sucrose and adding lithium, suggesting a joint mechanism at play.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Quantum state mixing in photobiology – new insight from ultrafast terahertz Stark spectroscopy

Researchers used ultrafast terahertz Stark spectroscopy to characterize the molecular quantum states involved in the proton pump reaction of bacteriorhodopsin. The study reveals pronounced quantum state mixing in the early electronic and nuclear dynamics, supporting a picture of mixed excited-state characters.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Turning infrared light visible

The Indian Institute of Science has fabricated a device to up-convert short infrared light to the visible range, utilizing a non-linear optical mirror stack made of gallium selenide. This innovation has diverse applications in defence and optical communications, including astronomy and chemistry.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·DateJun 20, 2024

Iron meteorites hint that our infant solar system was more doughnut than dartboard

New research suggests that our infant solar system resembled a doughnut-shaped protoplanetary disk, where asteroids with metal grains rich in iridium and platinum migrated to the outer disk as it rapidly expanded. This explanation contradicts previous findings of concentric ring structures around other stars.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2024

Can LSD confer psychological strength and resilience?

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that lifetime LSD use is associated with a higher likelihood of severe psychological distress after losing one's job. The study analyzed data from over 15,000 adults and found that prior LSD use was linked to greater symptoms of psychological distress.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateJun 20, 2024

How can AI cope with changing categories?

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have discovered a new scaling law that governs how artificial neural networks handle an increasing number of categories for identification. This law reveals how the identification error rate increases with the number of required recognizable objects, impacting AI latency and efficiency.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalPhysica A Statistical Mechanics and its Applications·DateJun 20, 2024

Towards cleaner energy: Breakthrough in anode electrode materials for proton conducting solid oxide fuel cells operating at medium temperature

Researchers have developed a novel perovskite-based anode material with mixed hole–proton conduction, achieving high efficiency at low and medium temperatures. The breakthrough could pave the way for important technological advancements in energy technologies.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of the Physical Society of Japan·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Making waves: generation of intense terahertz waves with a magnetic material

Scientists at Tohoku University have discovered a new magnetic material that generates terahertz waves with an intensity four times higher than typical materials. This breakthrough enables the development of efficient terahertz wave emitters for various industrial fields, including imaging and medical diagnostics.