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Science News for June 26, 2024


An optical lens that senses gas

A research team from the University of Jena developed a micro-lens with an intelligent behavior that changes in response to gas molecules. The lens is made of hybrid glass and consists of a three-dimensional lattice with cavities that accommodate gas molecules, affecting its optical properties.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

New global study unveils city-region networks, highlights role of intermediate cities

A new FAO-led study has mapped city-region networks globally, showcasing the vital role of intermediate cities in providing essential services. The research highlights how three times more people live within one hour of smaller urban centers with populations under one million compared to larger metropolitan areas.

SourceFood and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations·JournalNature Cities·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 26, 2024

Early childhood problems linked to persistent school absenteeism

A new study led by the University of Leeds found that children who are not considered 'school ready' by their teachers are more than twice as likely to become persistently absent. The researchers analyzed data from 62,598 children aged 5-13 and found that 67% of persistent absentees were considered 'not school ready'.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 26, 2024

Text reminders about COVID-19 boosters are as effective as free rides, new study finds

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania found that sending well-designed reminder messages increased COVID-19 booster uptake by 21% on average, outperforming free round-trip Lyft rides. The most effective messages were those encouraging recipients to make a vaccination plan and highlighting high local transmission rates.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 26, 2024

WVU changing the game for sports emergency action plans

The West Virginia University athletic training researcher developed a new national position statement on emergency action plan development and implementation in sports. The recommendations aim to reduce catastrophic injuries by designating an emergency action plan coordinator who collaborates with other athletic staff.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Athletic Training·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 26, 2024

Dancers are less neurotic

A study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft researchers found that both amateur and professional dancers are less neurotic than non-dancers. They also exhibit higher levels of agreeableness, openness, and extraversion.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateJun 26, 2024

Researchers find genetic stability in a long-term Panamanian hybrid zone of manakins

Hybrids between two manakin species in Panama have remained relatively stable over the past 30 years, with minimal changes in genomic markers. The phenotypic transition zone also shows stability, with only one trait having shifted location, suggesting a potential selection for green bellies.

Study finds innovative cuffless blood pressure device streamlines and enhances hypertension management

A study found that a cuffless wrist monitor provides hundreds of readings in days, enabling clinicians to determine cardiovascular risk and improve hypertension care. The device's continuous readings help confirm diagnosis and guide medication titration, potentially revolutionizing hypertension management.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2024

Updated radiocarbon dates for the Greek shipwreck Kyrenia

A revised radiocarbon calibration curve for the period between 433-250 BCE has been established, allowing for improved date estimates on Greek shipwrecks. The study confirms the Kyrenia Ship's final voyage around 280 BCE, slightly later than previous estimates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2024

Underwater mountains have a big impact on ocean circulation

Researchers at University of Cambridge discovered that underwater turbulence around seamounts significantly influences ocean mixing, contributing to a third of global ocean mixing. This finding has implications for climate models used in policymaking, potentially improving forecasts of the ocean's response to global warming.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2024

Slipping a note to a neighbor: The cellular way

Researchers from PSI and ETH Zurich studied connexin-36 gap junction channels and found that antimalarial drug mefloquine binds to the channels, potentially explaining its severe side effects. The study provides new insights into how drugs interact with connexins and may lead to the development of therapies for neurological diseases.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalCell Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

EventLFM: Event camera integrated fourier light field microscopy for ultrafast 3D imaging

Researchers developed EventLFM, a novel ultrafast 3D imaging technique that integrates an event camera with Fourier light field microscopy to capture dynamic biological processes at kHz speeds. The technique was demonstrated in experiments capturing complex dynamics of rapidly moving 3D objects and imaging high-frequency blinking objects.

Fundamental spatial limits of all-optical magnetization switching

A team of researchers has determined a fundamental spatial limit for light-driven magnetization reversal in nanometer-scale materials. They found that the minimum size for all-optical switching is around 25 nm due to ultrafast lateral electron diffusion, which rapidly cools illuminated regions.

Time-compression in electron microscopy

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have developed a method for all-optical control, compression, and characterization of electron pulses in space and time using terahertz light. This enables unprecedented time resolution in ultrafast electron microscopy, capturing dynamic processes in materials with unparalleled clarity.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 26, 2024

Involving workers essential to ensure industrial policies serve the public interest

A new study finds that Brazilian industrial policies are more effective when involving workers and civil society. Researchers analyzed policy plans and found that those with stronger labor union involvement outperformed weaker ones, highlighting the importance of societal participation in shaping national development goals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalDevelopment and Change·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 26, 2024

Global consensus for sarcopenia

A new global definition of sarcopenia is proposed, aiming to unify research and clinical practice. The definition may help identify low muscle mass or strength in older people, increasing the risk of poor outcomes such as fragility and disability.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 26, 2024

Review of pathogenesis, research and treatment of amyloidosis published in New England Journal of Medicine

Researchers have made substantial progress in understanding AL amyloidosis, a rare disease that causes progressive organ dysfunction and death, by identifying key determinants of survival such as cardiac involvement and developing new therapies targeting clonal plasma cells and antifibril monoclonal antibodies.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 26, 2024

A chip-scale Titanium-sapphire laser

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a chip-scale Titanium-sapphire laser, four orders of magnitude smaller and three orders less expensive than traditional lasers. This breakthrough enables mass production on wafers, potentially thousands of lasers per disc, democratizing access to these powerful tools.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateJun 26, 2024

Two studies show mixed progress against EoE

Two studies published in The New England Journal of Medicine show mixed results in treating EoE. Dupilumab is found to be effective in children under 12, while benralizumab fails to provide significant relief for patients. These findings challenge the long-held assumption that eosinophils are the primary cause of the disease.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 26, 2024

Early warning systems and plans to avert disasters due to extreme rainfall are still flawed, study shows

A recent study highlights the need for effective contingency plans and local community involvement in disaster response to mitigate losses. The analysis of landslides in São Sebastião, Brazil, revealed a breakdown in the early warning system, resulting in significant economic and human costs.

States with the most restrictive abortion policies saw the biggest declines in use of birth control and emergency contraceptives after Dobbs decision

A new USC study found that states with the most restrictive abortion policies experienced significant declines in the use of birth control pills and emergency contraceptives. The analysis suggests that the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case has had wider ramifications for women's reproductive health than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 26, 2024

Take-off! Researchers map fly’s neural networks that control wing and leg movement

Scientists at the University of Washington and Harvard Medical School have discovered the neural circuits that coordinate leg and wing movements in fruit flies. The study uses X-ray holographic nanotomography to map motor neurons controlling legs and wings, revealing pre-motor neurons coordinating motor neuron function.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

A kissing bug humans do not want to canoodle

Researchers identified a kissing bug in Delaware with the Chagas disease-causing parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Entomologists confirmed the insect's presence and found it was infected with the parasite, which can lead to serious heart problems if left untreated.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateJun 26, 2024

Bone stem cells with IFITM5 mutation get caught in a loop leading to osteogenesis imperfecta type V

A study by Baylor College of Medicine reveals the molecular events leading to osteogenesis imperfecta type V, a form of brittle bone disease caused by an IFITM5 mutation. The mutation disrupts normal bone stem cell development, leading to extremely brittle bones and recurrent fractures.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

New metabolic signature predicts immunotherapy response and survival in cancer patients

Researchers identified metabolic signatures that predict immunotherapy response and survival outcomes in cancer patients. The study found four distinct metabolic classes with significant variations in overall survival, highlighting the potential of metabolic profiling to improve immunotherapy treatments.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm – Future Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 26, 2024

Research shows maternal cell phone use may negatively impact infant language development

Research by the University of Texas at Austin found a 16% overall decrease in infants' speech input during real-world interactions when mothers used their phones. Phone use had stronger effects on speech during specific times of the day, highlighting the importance of parents being aware of their phone use's impact on caregiving.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2024

New study shows alcohol rehabilitation and abstinence reduce the risk of alcohol-associated cancers

A nationwide cohort study in France found that individuals with alcohol dependence who undergo rehabilitation or maintain abstinence experience a nearly 40% reduction in certain types of cancers. The study highlights the effectiveness of treatment strategies in combating cancer risks linked to alcohol dependence.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalPublic Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 26, 2024

Chemotherapy disrupts gut microbiome in patients with breast cancer

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that chemotherapy disrupts the gut microbiome in breast cancer patients, leading to cognitive decline and increased inflammation. The research suggests that targeting the gut microbiome may improve behavioral side effects of chemotherapy.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 26, 2024

Research shows children and adolescents may be motivated to rectify gender and ethnicity biases in the classroom

Children and adolescents are aware of and motivated to address inequalities in the classroom, expecting peers from disadvantaged groups to view unfair treatment negatively. They also desire to rectify these inequalities by selecting a student who has been disadvantaged before.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2024

Large variations in composition and toxicity of ambient particles found in 31 major cities in China

Researchers discovered significant differences in particulate matter (PM) toxicity among Chinese cities, with some cities up to 6.5 times more toxic than others. This study highlights the need for city-specific air pollution control strategies that integrate toxicity factors to maximize health and economic benefits.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalFundamental Research·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2024

Tai Chi reduces risk of inflammatory disease, treats insomnia among breast cancer survivors

Research by UCLA Health confirms that Tai Chi reduces inflammation and improves anti-viral defenses in breast cancer survivors, while cognitive behavioral therapy shows greater increases in anti-viral gene transcripts. The study found significant reductions in inflammatory biomarkers among Tai Chi participants.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 26, 2024

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers find some patients with Aicardi Goutières Syndrome have normal IQ

Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that two assessments, Leiter-3 and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale, can help measure cognitive function in children with Aicardi Goutières Syndrome. The study revealed that a subset of patients scored within a normal IQ range, paving the way for future clinical trial design.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNeurology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2024

World record 402 Tb/s transmission in a standard commercially available optical fiber

A team at NICT set a new world record for data-rate transmission in a standard optical fiber, reaching 402 Tb/s and increasing the aggregate bandwidth to 37.6 THz. The demonstration used novel technologies to access new wavelength regions, enabling future optical communication infrastructure to meet growing demands.

Should Iceland expect continued volcanic eruptions?

Researchers analyzed local earthquakes and geochemical data from recent lava samples to determine the source of eruptions. The evidence implies a moderately-sized magma reservoir delivering magma to the surface, indicating continued volcanic episodes into the future.

SourceWiley·JournalTerra Nova·DateJun 26, 2024

Scientists at IOCB Prague are developing a new generation of DNA tests for a wide range of applications

Scientists at IOCB Prague have developed two new types of catalytic DNA molecules that can reveal target molecule presence through fluorescence or color. The research uses directed evolution to discover novel fluorescent and colorimetric deoxyribozymes, with potential applications in diagnostic tests.

"A hearty debate" concludes plant-based meat alternatives are healthier for your heart than meat

A Canadian Journal of Cardiology review article finds that plant-based meat alternatives tend to reflect a heart-healthy dietary pattern, improving cholesterol levels and blood pressure. The authors recommend incorporating PBMAs into a healthy diet as an excellent protein source, with options lower in saturated fat and sodium.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 26, 2024

More than a quarter of ‘healthy’ over-60s have heart valve disease, according to new research

A study of over 4,500 healthy adults aged 60 and older found that nearly 28% had some form of heart valve disease, with age being the main risk factor. The majority of cases were mild, but the study highlights the need for more research into screening methods to identify and manage the disease in the elderly population.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEuropean Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Imaging·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 26, 2024

Towards non-toxic antifouling agents: A novel method for total synthesis of scabrolide F

Researchers at Okayama University developed a novel method for the total synthesis of scabrolide F, a natural marine compound. The study revealed that synthetic scabrolide F and its related compounds exhibited strong antifouling activity without toxicity, making it a potential solution to prevent biofouling damage.

SourceOkayama University·JournalOrganic & Biomolecular Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

Precision instrument bolsters efforts to find elusive dark energy

Researchers have built the most precise experiment yet to look for gravitational anomalies caused by dark energy, using a lattice atom interferometer that can hold atoms in place for up to 70 seconds. While no deviation from predicted theory was found, the improved precision opens up possibilities for probing gravity at the quantum level.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

El Niño forecasts extended to 18 months with innovative physics-based model

A new conceptual model, XRO, significantly improves predictive skill of ENSO events at over one year in advance, offering a transparent view into the mechanisms of equatorial Pacific recharge-discharge physics. This improves conventional climate model forecasting and provides robust quantification of extratropical Pacific, tropical Ind...

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 26, 2024

Study reveals twisted origin of dead stars’ mysterious ‘heartbeats’

Researchers have proposed a new model explaining neutron star glitches, suggesting that the power-law behavior of glitch energies is due to the formation of twisted clusters of superfluid vortices. The study found that the exponent for the power-law behavior closely matched the observed data.

New AI framework enhances emotion analysis

A Chinese research team introduced a novel two-stage framework using stacked transformers for multimodal sentiment analysis, improving the analysis of emotions expressed through modality combinations. The framework was tested on three open datasets and performed better than or as well as benchmark models.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateJun 26, 2024

Hope for men affected by ‘overlooked’ sexual issue

A study published in Trends in Urology and Men's Health found that several treatments have been effective in treating delayed ejaculation, including vibration stimulation therapy and psychotherapy. The research highlights the need for health professionals to be aware of a patient's full medical and sexual history and offers hope for mi...

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalTrends in Urology & Men s Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 26, 2024

Hope for long-term antidepressant users as study shows half can taper off drugs with simple support

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that nearly half of long-term antidepressant users can successfully taper off their medication with the help of general practitioner support and internet or telephone helplines. The study found lower rates of depression, fewer withdrawal symptoms, and improved mental wellbeing among...

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 26, 2024

Specific bacteria in your gut are involved in compulsive eating and obesity

A study published in Gut reveals that specific bacteria in the gut are involved in compulsive eating and obesity, with a beneficial bacterium called Blautia showing protective effects. The research also highlights the role of microRNAs in food addiction and suggests potential new treatments involving beneficial bacteria and dietary sup...

SourceFederation of European Neuroscience Societies·JournalGut·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2024

Neuroscience research leverages stem cells to understand how neurons connect and communicate in the brain

Researchers at Colorado State University used human stem cells to study synaptic connections in the brain, focusing on GABAergic synapses. They found that Gephyrin promotes autonomous assembly of these synapses, which can develop independently of neuronal communication. This understanding could lead to new treatments for neurological d...

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2024

Targeting human coatomer subunit zeta-1 by a marine natural product derivative represents a new therapeutic strategy to inhibit enterovirus A71 replication

A marine natural product derivative, MPA-CF3, targets host factor COPZ1 to inhibit enterovirus A71 replication. The study demonstrates a concentration-dependent inhibition of EV-A71 replication and suggests a unique antiviral mechanism of action.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

HKUMed and Harvard world-first study finds statins reduce the relative risk of cardiovascular diseases by over 20% in adults aged 75+ with high cholesterol in Hong Kong

A world-first study from HKUMed and Harvard found that continuous statin therapy reduces the relative risk of cardiovascular diseases by 21-35% in adults aged 75+, without increased safety concerns. The study used real-world data to inform decision-making on statin initiation for this large population.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

Biologists uncover how key carbohydrate-attachment mechanism malfunctions

Biologists discovered a key enzyme's interaction with a small structure in glycans that contributes to the malfunctioning of carbohydrates' attachment process. This process is essential for numerous physiological processes and can lead to diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and muscular dystrophy.

SourceInstitute for Glyco-core Research (iGCORE), Tokai National Higher Education and Research System·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

AI-based Alphafold: Its potential impact on predictive medicine

AlphaFold's groundbreaking ability to predict protein structures is set to transform predictive medicine, enabling the development of personalized vaccines and adaptive clinical trials. However, the review also highlights crucial challenges and ethical considerations surrounding AI integration with clinical data.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAI in Precision Oncology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 26, 2024