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Science News for June 27, 2024


Patients receiving protocol exceptions to participate in targeted therapy trial experienced similar outcomes as eligible participants

A study found that patients with treatment-refractory cancers who received protocol exemptions to participate in a large basket/umbrella oncology trial experienced similar rates of clinical benefit and adverse events as patients who participated in the trial without waivers. The results suggest that broadening eligibility criteria for ...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 27, 2024

US states shape foreign policy amid national China unease, research shows

A new study by University of Notre Dame researchers finds that US states are shaping US-China relations through subnational diplomacy, ranging from pro-engagement to confrontation. States like California and Indiana engage with China through climate partnerships and educational exchanges, while others adopt more confrontational policies.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalPublius The Journal of Federalism·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

NIH funds critical center in Detroit to lead efforts to investigate and mitigate health impacts of community-voiced chemical and non-chemical stressors

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) has awarded a four-year, $5.2 million grant to Wayne State University's Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors (CURES). The CURES team will investigate the basis for urban environmental health disparities and the human health impact of environmental exposure...

Adults conceived by donors left behind by fertility industry

A systematic review of 50 studies on donor-conceived individuals found comparable well-being outcomes to non-donor conceived people, including higher self-esteem and relationship warmth. However, a significant proportion experience identity difficulties and trust issues due to lack of information about their genetic parentage.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateJun 27, 2024

Climate change and sea level rise pose an acute challenge for cities with combined sewer systems

Researchers at Drexel University model the potential extent of flooding and combined sewer overflows in Camden, New Jersey, as climate change exacerbates the problem. The team's 'all-pipes' model simulates stormwater flows through every surface and pipe in the area, providing a unique solution to mitigate environmental and health risks.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Water Management Modeling·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 27, 2024

Pacific cod can’t rely on coastal safe havens for protection during marine heat waves, OSU study finds

A new Oregon State University study found that young Pacific cod in near shore safe havens were severely affected by recent marine heat waves in the Gulf of Alaska. The researchers estimated that only the largest 15-25% of the island's cod population survived, leading to significant changes in abundance, growth rates and diet.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

Clean Water Act leaves about 55% of water flowing out of rivers vulnerable to pollution, new study suggests

A new study reveals that the Supreme Court's ruling weakening the Clean Water Act leaves many US waterways vulnerable to pollution. Ephemeral streams, which only flow during weather events, contribute significantly to river systems' total output, with 55% of water coming from them on average.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 27, 2024

Breakthrough in tremor treatment: Robotic therapy developed by GIST researchers improves daily activities

Researchers at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) have developed an innovative robotic rehabilitation system called SPINDLE to enhance the strength and dexterity of individuals with tremors. The study revealed significant benefits, including improved motor control, coordination, and neuroplasticity.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

AI successfully helps detecting more breast cancers around Danish capital

A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that AI has helped detect significantly more cases of breast cancer and reduce radiologist workloads. The AI system has been used to analyze tens of thousands of X-rays every year, resulting in a 12% increase in detected cases, including more small tumours of one centimetre or less.

Diagnostic stewardship approach to C. diff reduces unnecessary testing

A new approach to testing for Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) has been shown to reduce unnecessary testing by 20%. The study, published in the American Journal of Infection Control, introduces a clearly defined, evidence-based test ordering process that targets specific patient groups and reduces inappropriate testing.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

Breakthrough genome sequencing of purple finger lemon 'YaoJi' unveils key genes for rind color and evolutionary insights

The study successfully sequenced the genome of purple finger lemon 'YaoJi', identifying key genes linked to rind color variations. The research provides a genomic foundation for further genetic studies and breeding programs, shedding light on the evolutionary history of finger lemons.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalTropical Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Researchers create the first comprehensive characterization of the extraordinary thermoelectric properties of cadmium arsenide thin films

Scientists have discovered a material that can harness waste heat, increasing energy efficiency and sustainability. The researchers found that thinner cadmium arsenide films exhibit higher thermoelectric sensitivity, allowing for more efficient cooling in cryogenic environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 27, 2024

Research shows how common plastics could passively cool and heat buildings with the seasons

Researchers at Princeton and UCLA developed a passive mechanism to cool buildings in summer and warm them in winter by restricting radiant heat flows. Common materials like polyvinyl fluoride and plastics can be adapted for this purpose, achieving energy savings and thermal comfort beyond traditional building envelopes.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Prehistoric Pompeii discovered: Most pristine trilobite fossils ever found shake up scientific understanding of the long extinct group

Researchers have discovered exceptionally preserved trilobite fossils, over 500 million years old, that provide detailed information about the anatomy and behavior of these ancient creatures. The findings, published in Science, reveal new insights into the evolution of life on Earth.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJun 27, 2024

Master autoimmune regulator gets by with a little help from its friends

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have reclassified Foxp3 as a transcriptional cofactor, revealing its reliance on DNA-binding proteins to regulate the immune system. This discovery has significant implications for future T-cell engineering and potentially treating autoimmune diseases.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Novel peptide formulation shows promise of restoring cognitive decline in schizophrenia

A novel peptide, KS-133, has been developed to target genetic mechanisms associated with schizophrenia. The nanoparticle-based drug delivery system, where KS-133 is encapsulated with a brain-targeting peptide, shows effective distribution in the brains of mice and improves cognitive functions in mice with induced schizophrenia.

“Hidden” sex differences in neurological reward pathways suggest opportunity for improved psychiatric therapeutics

Researchers discovered underlying sex differences in molecular pathways driving reward-related behaviors, which could lead to more effective treatments for mental health disorders. The study found that females use a different channel for calcium ions and an estrogen receptor to strengthen connections between brain regions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

No more stressing out over structural formulas

Researchers found that providing simple hints on structural formulas reduces stress and improves performance in biology classes, as students were able to focus on the essentials without feeling overwhelmed. In contrast, self-efficacy remained unchanged, with students acknowledging their incomplete knowledge of formulas.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalResearch in Science Education·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Phytochemical diversity and herbivory are higher in tropical forests: Study

Researchers found that tropical tree communities exhibit higher levels of phytochemical diversity, leaf herbivory, and specialized herbivory compared to less diverse subtropical and subalpine forest communities. This study highlights the importance of biotic interactions in maintaining biodiversity in tropical regions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

Prenatal exposure to ethylene oxide associated with lower birth weight and head circumference in newborns

A study of 1,106 newborns from five countries found that prenatal exposure to ethylene oxide is associated with lower birth weight and smaller head circumference. The results suggest that reducing exposure to ethylene oxide could protect fetal health and improve birth outcomes.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEpidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 27, 2024

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers find elementary age children experience more concussions during activities unrelated to sports

A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers found that elementary age children are more likely to experience concussions during recreation and other non-sport activities. These injuries often lead to longer recovery times due to delayed specialist care. The findings highlight the need for education and awareness about co...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

How does the human brain switch between survival tasks?

Researchers found that patterns of neural activity in the hypothalamus predict performance in survival tasks, while associations with other brain regions were observed for hunting and escaping behaviors. The study provides new insights into how the human brain coordinates survival strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 27, 2024

Suicide mortality during the perinatal period

A recent study investigates maternal suicide mortality during the perinatal period, revealing complex factors and opportunities for further research. The findings underscore the importance of evidence-based interventions targeting mental health, substance use, and intimate partner problems to prevent maternal suicide and enhance matern...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 27, 2024

How do high-profile incidents of racial discrimination affect the eating habits of Black women?

Researchers found that Black women living near areas of unrest experienced higher levels of emotional eating and stress, while those in safer neighborhoods engaged in cognitive restraint. The study suggests that vicarious racial discrimination can lead to race-based traumatic stress and poor mental and physical health outcomes.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateJun 27, 2024

Antibody-drug conjugate highly effective in preventing recurrence in patients with early stage HER2+ breast cancer, trial finds

A clinical trial found that trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) is highly effective in preventing stage 1 HER2-positive breast cancer from recurring in patients. The treatment significantly reduced the risk of recurrence and improved patient-reported outcomes compared to chemotherapy and trastuzumab.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 27, 2024

First of its kind study shines light on LGBTQ+ farmer mental health

A new study reveals that LGBTQ+ farmers are over three times more likely to experience depression and suicidal intent compared to the general population. The research also found that queer farmers face specific challenges, including concerns about identity validation and access to mental health resources.

Ammonites went out with a diverse bang—and not a long, slow fizzle—in the Late Cretaceous

A new study using museum collections reveals that ammonites were diverse and thriving across the globe just before their extinction in the Late Cretaceous. The research found that the balance of speciation and extinction rates varied by region, contradicting previous theories.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

Study supports precision radiation therapy in lung cancer

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center found fewer side effects with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), with similar survival outcomes compared to 3D-CRT. The study validated heart exposure as an important radiation planning objective, revealing better five-year overall and progression-free survival rates for IMRT.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 27, 2024

Novel photodynamic therapy method can eradicate ocular melanoma, study shows

A new photodynamic therapy method has been shown to effectively eradicate ocular melanoma in mice, with the technique delivering two photons and minimizing damage to healthy tissue. The approach offers a promising alternative to current treatments that are often ineffective or invasive.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 27, 2024

The mechanism behind melanoma resistance to treatment

Researchers at the University of Zurich have discovered a factor secreted by tumor cells that impeds the effectiveness of therapies. The POSTN gene plays an important role in resistant tumors and triggers resistance through its interaction with immune cells, particularly macrophages.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Researchers developed novel 3D printing strategy with controllable gradients porous structures

A new 3D printing strategy enables creation of complex gradient pore structures, enhancing processing capabilities for biomimetic manufacturing and bioprinting. The approach allows for precise control over filament diameter, enabling the fabrication of 1D, 2D, and 3D gradient structures.

SourceShenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 27, 2024

What can social media tell us about public views on climate change?

A recent study analyzed 333,635 English tweets on man-made climate change, identifying four main narratives and common stances on the topic. The analysis highlights the challenges of addressing climate change adaptation and mitigation measures, as well as the need to counter misinformation and conspiracy theories.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalCurrent Research in Environmental Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 27, 2024

Optimum protection against diabetes: Weight loss plus remission of prediabetes

Researchers found that people who achieved weight loss and prediabetes remission had a 76% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who only lost weight. This suggests that normalization of blood sugar levels should be included as a therapeutic goal in guidelines to improve diabetes prevention.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetologia·TypeObservational study·DateJun 27, 2024

US efforts to collect LGBTQ+ data among Medicaid patients is a ‘foundational step towards health equity'

A new commentary in JAMA explains the benefits and barriers of CMS' recommendations to incorporate sexual orientation and gender identity questions into Medicaid applications. The guidance aims to improve health equity by collecting self-reported SOGI data from 88 million adults enrolled in Medicaid, but limitations include non-represe...

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 27, 2024

Innovative UAV and deep learning method enhances maize tassel detection accuracy

A research team developed an innovative method using UAVs and deep learning to accurately identify tassel states in maize hybridization fields, achieving up to 98% accuracy. This approach holds significant value for improving tassel detection in agricultural fields, reducing manual labor and increasing crop management efficiency.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

To protect corals from summer heatwaves, we should help their microbial symbionts evolve heat tolerance in the lab, researchers say

Researchers suggest helping coral symbionts evolve heat tolerance in the lab to protect corals from summer heatwaves. This approach may be used in conjunction with other measures like assisted gene flow and reef management to maximize the likelihood of coral reefs persisting into the future.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 27, 2024

HKU ecologists reconstruct the history of biodiversity in the indo-australian archipelago and its rise as a hotspot

Researchers reconstructing the history of biodiversity in the Indo-Australian Archipelago found that marine diversity increased since the early Miocene, driven by habitat factors. The findings suggest that the region's thermal stress moderated around 14 million years ago, allowing for favorable conditions for biodiversity to flourish.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·DateJun 27, 2024

Three new extinct walnut species discovered in high Arctic mummified forest

Scientists have discovered three new extinct walnut species on a Canadian island above the Arctic Circle, preserved in a unique form of fossilization known as mummification. The fossils provide valuable information about the Earth's climate and ecosystems during the middle Eocene period, when forests covered the region.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalInternational Journal of Plant Sciences·DateJun 27, 2024

Significant discrepancies between actual and labelled amount of anti-ageing ingredients in supplements: NUS Medicine study

Researchers found significant discrepancies between actual and labelled amounts of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) and Urolithin A (UA) in anti-ageing supplements. The discrepancies ranged from none to 28% more than stated amounts, highlighting a critical issue in the supplement industry.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalGeroScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

With $12 million NIH grant renewal, Lewis Katz School of Medicine researchers to explore novel cell mechanism in heart injury and repair

Researchers at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine will investigate how injured heart cells communicate with other cells throughout the body using microvesicles known as exosomes. The study aims to understand how specific molecules, such as microRNAs, facilitate communication pathways between cells in the heart and vasculature.

Research uncovers pyrethrum's genetic secrets, boosting eco-friendly pest control and sustainable farming practices

Researchers have elucidated pyrethrum's biosynthetic pathways, identifying key genes responsible for pyrethrin production. This discovery highlights pyrethrum's potential as a companion plant in agriculture, offering natural pest repellence and attraction to beneficial predators.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalOrnamental Plant Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

American College of Radiology, American College of Emergency Physicians, and American Academy of Pediatrics offer guidance on use of advanced imaging in pediatric patients

The policy statement offers guidelines for institutions and medical professionals to weigh benefits and risks of imaging in emergency departments. It includes recommendations for deferring imaging in children transferred to pediatric referral centers and using shared decision-making strategies when multiple reasonable choices exist. Th...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 27, 2024

Female heart patients less likely to have additional problems fixed during surgery

Research from Michigan Medicine found that female patients with atrial fibrillation and tricuspid regurgitation are less likely to receive simultaneous procedures during cardiac surgery, despite guideline recommendations. This disparity may be related to perceived higher risk among women.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·TypeObservational study·DateJun 27, 2024

High-speed internet linked to more farms offering agritourism

A new study by Penn State researchers found that high-speed broadband availability is linked to an increase in agritourism operations. U.S. counties with faster-than-national-average speeds had 5% more agritourism businesses five years later, according to the study.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

The most obese children with dengue are more than twice as likely as others to be hospitalized with dengue, according to study of 4,782 10- to 18-year-olds in Sri Lanka

A study of 4,782 Sri Lankan children aged 10-18 with dengue found that obese individuals were more than twice as likely to be hospitalized due to the disease. The research highlights the potential consequences of rising childhood obesity rates on public health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 27, 2024

Only 4% of teen football academy prospects make top tier

A recent study by University of Essex researchers found that only 4% of talented teen football academy prospects make it to the top tier of professional football. The study also revealed that players who succeeded excelled in self-confidence, ball reception skills, and dribbling.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalInternational Journal of Sports Science & Coaching·TypeObservational study·DateJun 27, 2024

Simulating blood flow dynamics for improved nanoparticle drug delivery

A team of engineers has created a new mathematical model to accurately simulate the effects of blood flow on the adhesion and retention of nanoparticle drug carriers. The model, developed by University of Illinois professors Arif Masud and Hyunjoon Kong, was tested in vitro and demonstrated promising results.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 27, 2024

Tissue bridges are reliable predictors of recovery from cervical spine injuries

A longitudinal study has found that tissue bridges in the spinal cord are associated with short- and long-term clinical improvements in patients with cervical spine injuries. The study's models, developed by a team of experts, incorporate tissue bridges for improved prognosis and can be transferred to other patient cohorts.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Invasive ants spread by hitchhiking on everyday vehicles

Researchers found that ants need three main things to succeed when hitchhiking: climbing ability, foraging/colonizing behaviors, and temperature tolerance. The study tracked the spread of invasive ants through non-commercial transport on personal vehicles, highlighting a significant threat to native species.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcological Entomology·DateJun 27, 2024

Researchers find intriguing new tool for tendon healing: nanoparticles for precision drug delivery

A team of researchers has created a new approach to deliver drugs precisely to surgically repaired tendons using nanoparticles, reducing scar tissue formation and improving function. The treatment targets the Acp5 gene, which is highly expressed at the injury site, and delivers medication directly to the healing tendon.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 27, 2024

New Boston Medical Center Study shows a relationship between heart disease and spontaneous loss of Y chromosome

Researchers found that men with a higher proportion of blood cells missing the Y chromosome have a higher risk of dying from heart failure. Elevated Y chromosome loss is associated with decreased treatment response in patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis, a progressive disease causing heart failure and death.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalCirculation Heart Failure·DateJun 27, 2024

Archaeology: Occupational hazards for ancient Egyptian scribes

A recent study published in Scientific Reports identified degenerative joint changes in the skeletal remains of 30 adult male scribes buried between 2700 and 2180 BCE. These changes were more common among scribes compared to men with other occupations, suggesting prolonged sitting and repetitive tasks may have led to their degeneration.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 27, 2024

U of T researchers develop deep-learning model that outperforms Google AI system to predict peptide structures

Researchers at U of T have developed a deep-learning model called PepFlow that can predict the full range of conformations for peptides, which are shorter than proteins but perform similar biological functions. The model combines machine learning and physics to capture precise and accurate conformations within minutes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateJun 27, 2024

Synthetic fuels and chemicals from CO₂: Ten experiments in parallel

Empa researchers have developed a system to investigate up to ten different reaction conditions for producing synthetic fuels from CO2. The system accelerates the discovery process by generating a large number of high-quality datasets, enabling scientists to make accelerated discoveries.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

When QDs meet BPLCEs: Visualized full-color and mechanically-switchable CPL

Researchers developed a new material that combines quantum dots with blue phase liquid crystal elastomers (BPLCE), enabling visualized full-color circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) with a record-breaking g_lum value of up to 0.74. The material's CPL signal is mechanically switchable, meaning it can be turned on and off by applying...

Wolves reintroduced to Isle Royale temporarily affect other carnivores, humans have influence as well

Researchers found that wolves on Isle Royale initially affected foxes and martens by altering their habitats and diets. However, as the wolves formed packs, the effects on these carnivores disappeared. Interestingly, human visitors had a more significant impact on these species interactions than the reintroduced wolves.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeObservational study·DateJun 27, 2024

New research shows that solar-powered “resilience hubs” in California could generate up to 8GW of power -- providing emergency assistance to vulnerable residents during power outages

A new study suggests that strategically placing solar-powered resilience hubs in California could generate up to 8 GW of solar energy and reduce the state's carbon emissions by 5 million tons per year. These hubs provide critical services such as phone charging, cooling, and powering medical devices for at-risk populations.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

Emotional overeating fed by temperament, caregivers’ reactions to children’s emotions

Researchers found that caregivers' supportive responses can prevent emotional overeating by teaching children to regulate their emotions, while non-supportive responses may contribute to the behavior. The study suggests that parents should be aware of the complex factors influencing emotional overeating in young children.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateJun 27, 2024

New study shows high human impact on ecosystems in the Åland Archipelago

A recent study from Åbo Akademi University reveals significant human-induced pressures on coastal invertebrate communities in the Åland archipelago. The research highlights the impact of wind-waves and fish farming on these communities, shedding light on their responses to environmental drivers and effects on ecosystem functions.

SourceAbo Akademi University·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·TypeCase study·DateJun 27, 2024