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Science News for June 25, 2024


USTC develops high-performance anion exchange membranes for sustainability applications

Researchers at USTC developed a novel spiro-branched polymeric membrane with exceptional performance in flow battery applications, exceeding 60 mS cm-1 chloride ion conductivity. The membranes demonstrated superior power density and energy efficiency, potentially addressing various energy and environmental challenges.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 25, 2024

Korea University identifies novel inhibitor HVH-2930 showing promise in overcoming trastuzumab resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer

A novel inhibitor HVH-2930 targeting heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) demonstrates efficacy against drug-resistant breast cancer cells. It selectively downregulates HER2 signaling, crucial for breast cancer progression, without triggering the heat shock response.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalTheranostics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Music sends our brainwaves dancing

A study from Aarhus University and the University of Oxford reveals that listening to music sets off a complex chain reaction in the brain, involving areas for sound, emotions, and memory. This understanding could lead to new interventions for improving cognitive function in individuals with neurological conditions.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 25, 2024

Uncovering the drivers of a million-year-old glacial transition

Researchers from the Mann Research Group found strong path dependence in Plio-Pleistocene glaciations, driven by a gradual decrease in regolith and volcanic outgassing. The study suggests that carbon dioxide levels determine the onset of the Mid-Pleistocene Transition, and that it's not too late to act to prevent ice sheet collapse.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 25, 2024

For better loan terms, find a partner

Researchers found that companies in strategic alliances can access more favorable loan rates and terms through the financial networks of their partners. This is because banks with existing relationships with an alliance partner offer lower interest rates to a company entering the alliance.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Accounting Review·DateJun 25, 2024

Amazon rainforest faces drought risk despite carbon removal efforts

The Amazon rainforest, a crucial carbon sink, may experience reduced precipitation due to increased CO2 concentrations, leading to higher tree mortality rates and forest shrinkage. A recent study found that rainy season precipitation in the Amazon is irreversible under a CO2 removal scenario, putting the region at risk of drought.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Environmental Sciences·DateJun 25, 2024

Why people resort to lynching

A new dataset reveals that lynchings in Latin America are often triggered by alleged theft or murder, with groups of 20-99 individuals involved. Close-knit community ties and peer pressure play a significant role in ordinary civilians taking part in acts of violence against alleged wrongdoers.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJun 25, 2024

Fewer GP appointments and the COVID lockdown have exacerbated declining continuity of care in English general practices

A study analyzing data from 6,010 English practices between 2018 and 2022 found that the national average dropped from 29.3% to 19% of patients able to see a preferred doctor. Practices with more doctors and higher same-day appointment rates showed slower declines in continuity.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 2024

Species composition and succession of coral reef fishes in Huaguang Reef, Xisha Islands

This study identified 299 coral reef fish species in Huaguang Reef, with Perciformes exhibiting the highest species count. Notably, a reduction in species at the order and family levels was observed compared to historical data. The succession patterns indicate a notable impact of overfishing on coral reef fishes.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater Biology and Security·TypeSurvey·DateJun 25, 2024

Artificial intelligence predicts upper secondary education dropout as early as the end of primary school

Researchers developed machine learning models predicting upper secondary education dropout from kindergarten age, using a 13-year longitudinal dataset. The study marks an advancement in early automatic classification, potentially leading to transformative changes in educational systems and policies.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 25, 2024

Study provides the first anatomical and functional representation of the ocular surface in the central nervous system

Researchers characterize thalamic and cortical neurons responding to ocular surface stimulation, showing diverse multimodal response profiles. The study provides insights into how sensory stimulus information is integrated from the peripheral nervous system into the brain's cortical networks.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalPhysiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Robots face the future

The team, led by Professor Shoji Takeuchi, created a layer of skin that can bind to complex forms of humanoid robots, granting them increased mobility and self-healing abilities. The research has potential applications in the cosmetics industry, medical research, and robotics.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Following the ‘BATT Signal:’ A new signaling pathway controlling planarian germ cells

In planarian flatworms, biogenic monoamines play a critical role in regulating female and male germ cells. Researchers discovered that these molecules form a novel signaling pathway controlling planarian germ cells, producing the 'BATT Signal' to regulate reproductive development. The study highlights the importance of monoamine conjug...

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Farmland weeds help to combat pests

A University of Bonn study found that leaving some weeds between crops helps combat pests. Intercropping with wildflowers also attracts beneficial insects, making it harder for weeds to grow and pests to infest the field. The study suggests tolerating residual weeds as a farming practice.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Pest Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Study identifies gene targets to combat cognitive decline

Researchers identified changes in gene activity underlying cognitive decline in older nematode C. elegans, providing evidence for neuroprotective genes that may preserve cognition later in life. Reducing expression of certain genes improved memory performance in aged animals.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateJun 25, 2024

Research in cognitive aging and age-related memory loss boosted through renewed $4,626,500 funding of Innovator Awards

The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) has received renewed funding of $4,626,500 from the McKnight Brain Research Foundation to support scientists pursuing groundbreaking studies in cognitive aging. The funding will support high-risk/high-gain research proposals that may yield transformative discoveries.

Gold membrane coaxes secrets out of surfaces

Researchers developed a thin gold membrane with pores to selectively amplify Raman signals from surfaces, enabling the study of surfaces for the first time. This breakthrough improves the efficiency and degradation behavior of batteries, catalysts, and solar cells.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 25, 2024

Researchers evaluate the benefit of dual therapy for children at risk for spinal muscular atrophy

A first-of-its-kind study compared preventative therapy efficacy between two groups: gene therapy alone and in combination with risdiplam or nusinersen. Dual therapy showed promise in independent sitting outcomes, but not in walking age or muscle disease progression prevention.

SourceClinic for Special Children·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 25, 2024

An enzyme with a smart friend

Researchers discovered that enzyme METTL6 interacts with tRNA synthetase to recognize specific tRNAs, enabling precise modification and potential application in cancer treatment. This discovery provides new insights into the molecular machinery of protein production.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Harnessing complementary advantages for optimal microbial control techniques for prepared dishes

The study evaluates common microbial control techniques used in prepared dishes, highlighting their limitations and requirements. Researchers conclude that no single technology is perfect for all types of prepared food categories, emphasizing the need to select suitable techniques based on dish characteristics.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalFood Physics·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 25, 2024

Backward walking speed reserve assessment offers improved clinical screening for risks and decline in MS patients

A new methodology, backward walking speed reserve, measures an individual's capacity to increase their walking speed on demand in the backward direction. This assessment is linked to disease severity, falls risk, and cognitive decline in multiple sclerosis patients.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders·TypeObservational study·DateJun 25, 2024

Psychoactive agents in psychotherapy: New MDMA variants identified for potentially safer use

Researchers have identified three new variants of MDMA as promising alternatives for controlled psychotherapeutic use, retaining therapeutic potential while reducing side effects. The new compounds show a similar effect on clinical target structures in the brain and are broken down more favorably, resulting in fewer toxic products.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalJournal of Neurochemistry·DateJun 25, 2024

Discovery of vast sex differences in cellular activity has major implications for disease treatment

Researchers discovered extreme differences in mitochondrial gene activity between males and females, highlighting the need for sex-specific disease therapies. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found that male mitochondria exhibit more protein-coding genes than females.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Strong friendships in adolescence could offer a long-term measure of resilience

A study published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience found that high-quality friendships among adolescents are strongly associated with resilient functioning in early adulthood. The researchers used brain imaging scans to examine neural responses to social exclusion, revealing a link between better friendship quality and po...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateJun 25, 2024

Insight into nature: MAPK20-ATG6 link in tomato pollen vitality

A pivotal study sheds new light on the molecular underpinnings of plant reproduction by pinpointing a key interaction that ensures the viability and germination of tomato pollen. The research reveals that MAPK20-mediated phosphorylation of ATG6 is critical for autophagosome formation, leading to defective pollen development.

From 'CyberSlug' to 'CyberOctopus': New AI explores, remembers, seeks novelty, overcomes obstacles

Scientists have developed an AI that can navigate new environments, seek rewards, map landmarks and overcome obstacles using a novel approach inspired by the brain circuits of sea slugs and octopuses. The new AI, called CyberOctopus, has the ability to explore and gather information while learning on the job.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNeurocomputing·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Molecular mapping reveals tissue-specific gene regulation by diabetes-linked transcription factors

Scientists have generated a comprehensive map of gene targets regulated by HNF4A and HNF1A in human pancreatic beta cells and liver cells. The study identified novel gene targets in pancreatic beta cells that may play roles in regulating insulin secretion, providing valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets for diabetes.

The recipe for a great antibody

Researchers at Lund University developed a hybrid antibody that significantly improves immune function despite weaker binding to antigens. The new antibody's longer stem enhances mobility and signaling capacity, leading to better protection against SARS-CoV-2 and streptococcal bacteria.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

The American Ornithological Society (AOS) announces its 2024 award winners for achievements in ornithological research by early-career professionals

The American Ornithological Society has announced its 2024 award winners for early-career professionals, highlighting exceptional research in ornithology. The recipients include Sheela P. Turbek and Jessie L. Williamson, recognized for their work on bird diversity, behavior, and conservation.

Large integrative medicine center implements processes to measure and understand clinical effectiveness

A new study published in PLOS ONE explores the implementation of a paper-based system for collecting patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in an outpatient integrative health and medicine (IHM) setting. The research found that provider, operational, and clinical-level factors have a greater impact on successful completion than patient factors.

Analysis suggests 2021 Texas abortion ban resulted in increase in infant deaths in state in year after law went into effect

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researchers found that infant deaths in Texas increased by 255 deaths between 2021 and 2022, a 12.9% increase compared to the US average. The analysis suggests that the state's 2021 abortion ban may have led to an increase in infant deaths due to congenital anomalies.

Your future medications could be personalized for you on a 3D printer

NIST is developing standards and safety protocols for 3D printing drugs onsite at pharmacies, enabling personalized dosages tailored to individual health needs. The process involves quality control measures to ensure accurate dosages and ingredients, with ongoing research to verify printer accuracy.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 25, 2024

The evolution of firefly lights

A genomic analysis overturned the leading hypothesis on firefly light origin, revealing that lucibufagins, a toxic compound, evolved after bioluminescence development. Fireflies' ancestors diversified during a period of rising atmospheric oxygen levels, suggesting a similar path to glowing millipedes.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 25, 2024

Battling anthracnose: Unearthing the plant's arsenal against pathogenic fungi

Researchers have identified four novel core effectors from the pear anthracnose pathogen Colletotrichum fructicola that trigger significant immune responses in nonhost plant Nicotiana benthamiana. This discovery could transform approaches to plant disease management and bolster crops against devastating fungal infections.

A model of Collaborative Ethics to guide translational research from fundamental discoveries to real-world applications

The Collaborative Ethics model, developed by Jeantine Lunshof and Julia Rijssenbeek, aims to address ethical implications of emerging technologies from fundamental discoveries. By integrating philosophical and ethical reassessment into research processes, the model facilitates decision points for researchers and ethicists.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Methods·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 25, 2024

Public health beliefs predict support for climate action, study shows

A new study by Annenberg Public Policy Center researchers finds that science-consistent beliefs about climate change's public health effects predict support for climate policies. The study controlled for belief in climate change's existence and cause, highlighting the importance of grounded knowledge in promoting climate action.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Health Communication·TypeSurvey·DateJun 25, 2024

Geological archives predict our climate future

Researchers from UNIGE have measured the increase in soil erosion caused by global warming, with a four-fold increase observed in sediments from the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum. This study suggests that current warming could lead to similar effects, increasing flood risks and threatening populated areas.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGeology·TypeNews article·DateJun 25, 2024

Pauses in human activity benefit biodiversity

A study published in Global Ecology and Conservation found that Covid-19 lockdowns increased the quality of species' habitats due to decreased pollution and human mobility. This led to improved water quality, cleaner air, and more affordable natural resources, ultimately benefiting both biodiversity and human health.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateJun 25, 2024

Think you might have COVID? Wait two days to test

A new mathematical model suggests that waiting two days after symptoms arise for rapid COVID tests can increase accuracy by reducing false negatives. The model also recommends a 'test-to-exit' strategy to prevent infections and minimize inconvenience, which may be more effective than the five-day isolation policy.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 2024

Study: Teacher perceptions of chronically absent young students may add to the challenges of missing school

A new study found that early elementary school teachers report feeling less close to chronically absent students and viewing them less positively. Teachers in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade also perceive these students as having worse interpersonal skills and academic difficulties, despite not causing trouble in the classr...