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Science News Archive June 2024 - Page 31


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Novel diamond quantum magnetometer for ambient condition magnetoencephalography

Researchers have developed a highly sensitive diamond quantum magnetometer that can achieve practical ambient condition magnetoencephalography. The novel magnetometer uses a single crystalline diamond to detect magnetic fields, achieving record sensitivities of up to 9.4 pT Hz-1/2 in the frequency range of 5 to 100 Hz.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

Innovative combination therapy shows promise for bladder cancer patients unresponsive to standard treatment

A novel combination of oncolytic virus and immune checkpoint inhibitor has shown remarkable efficacy in treating non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, with a complete response rate of 57.1% at 12 months. The therapy demonstrated durable responses, with a median duration of response not yet reached after a median follow-up of 26.5 months.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 6, 2024

Flavor restrictions affect tobacco buyers differently depending on socioeconomic status, researchers say

Researchers found that restricting menthol flavor in cigarettes while making nicotine replacement therapy more available can decrease socioeconomic disparities in tobacco use. The study used an online platform to simulate the effects of policy changes on purchase behavior, showing that policies must consider interplay to be effective.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 6, 2024

Political connections fuel innovation in emerging markets, but talent makes the difference

A new study from the University of Surrey reveals that political connections can drive innovation in emerging markets, but only with highly skilled employees. The research analyzed over 3,200 Chinese-listed businesses and found that companies with talented teams can better utilize resources and knowledge from political connections, lea...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalInternational Business Review·DateJun 6, 2024

Diagnosing damaged infrastructure from space

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method of monitoring infrastructure using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) remote sensing systems. This technology allows for early detection of issues, reducing the need for time-consuming repairs.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateJun 6, 2024

Association for Molecular Pathology publishes evidence-based recommendations for tumor mutational burden testing

The Association for Molecular Pathology has published guidelines for tumor mutational burden (TMB) testing, aiming to standardize calculation and reporting of TMB as a predictive biomarker for immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies. These recommendations emphasize the importance of comprehensive methodological descriptions in publications.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJun 6, 2024

Frequent, low-severity fire supports habitat for threatened owls: Collaborative research yields insights for wildlife habitat management

A collaborative research study found that frequent, low-severity fires support Mexican spotted owl habitat, while high-severity fire is detrimental. This finding suggests that restoring historic fire regimes could benefit both owl conservation and forest resilience.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Rocky Mountain Research Station·JournalFire Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 6, 2024

The first example of cellular origami

Researchers Manu Prakash and Eliott Flaum have discovered a new geometric mechanism in the single-cell organism Lacrymaria olor, enabling it to produce complex morphodynamics through curved-crease origami. The cell's cytoskeletal structure encodes this behavior, which is driven by a singularity that acts as a controller.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2024

Study identifies potential pathway to reducing breast cancer brain metastases

A study led by researchers from the University of Arizona Cancer Center identified a biological mechanism that could lead to more effective treatments for breast cancer that has metastasized to the brain. By targeting the autophagy pathway, the researchers were able to disrupt breast cancer cells' ability to form brain metastases.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 6, 2024

Doctors advise caution as energy drinks may trigger life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias in patients with genetic heart diseases

A study published in Heart Rhythm examined the potential dangers of energy drink consumption in patients with genetic heart diseases. The research found a temporal relationship between energy drink consumption and sudden cardiac arrest events, but caution is advised due to the small relative risk.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeart Rhythm·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 6, 2024

Increased lifespan of individuals living with cerebral palsy necessitates a broader perspective on care

A special issue of the Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine explores cerebral palsy beyond childhood, highlighting topics like mental health, sexuality, and independence in adults. The issue aims to address long-overlooked aspects of CP care, promoting a broader perspective for improved patient outcomes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

Harposporium incensis sp. nov., a South American cordycipitoid species exhibiting inter-phylum host-jumping and having potential as a biological control agent for pest management

A new species of cordycipitoid fungi, Harposporium incensis sp. nov., has been identified with the ability to parasitize both Lepidoptera insects and nematodes, showcasing inter-phylum host-jumping capabilities. This finding suggests potential as a biological control agent for managing pest diseases.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalMycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology·DateJun 6, 2024

Researchers develop microneedle patch to reverse hair loss caused by autoimmune disease

A new microneedle patch has been developed to treat autoimmune disease alopecia areata by delivering immune regulators to affected skin areas, promoting lasting hair regrowth. The approach restores immune balance and resolves T cell attack on hair follicles, offering a potential long-term solution without compromising the immune system.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 6, 2024

Heavy lifetime cannabis use and mortality by sex

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found a positive association between heavy lifetime cannabis use and cardiovascular disease mortality among female participants. The study suggests that long-term cannabis use may have negative effects on mortality rates, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 6, 2024

Widespread use of high-assay low-enriched uranium raises significant nuclear security concerns

The widespread adoption of high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) threatens the international system of controls preventing nuclear weapons proliferation for over 30 years. HALEU's high enrichment levels pose significant security risks, making it possible for a single reactor to contain enough material for a nuclear weapon.

Scientists in Brazil and India collaborate on research to create promising treatment for solid tumors

Researchers created nanomicelles containing substances already approved for human use, which reduced inflammation in the tumor microenvironment and facilitated the action of the immune system. The treatment induced a reduction of over five times in tumor volume compared to untreated tumors.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateJun 6, 2024

Breaking data transmission barriers: Innovations in data center interconnects

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking solution to overcome DAC challenges, achieving record-breaking data transmission performance. The innovative approach enables the transmission of signals at rates exceeding 124 GBd PAM-4/6 and 112 GBd PAM-8 over long distances using low-cost digital-to-analog converters.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateJun 6, 2024

Analysis finds high assay low-enriched uranium fuel to be produced for small nuclear power reactors poses a greater proliferation threat than previously acknowledged

An analysis published in Science found that high assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) fuel can be used directly to make nuclear weapons, posing a significant threat to terrorism and nuclear proliferation. Many proposed reactors could contain enough HALEU to make a nuclear weapon, increasing security risks.

SourceUnion of Concerned Scientists·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2024

New study challenges 'pop psychology' myths about habits

Researchers at the University of Surrey challenge common misconceptions about habits, suggesting they are mental links between situations and actions. Forming new habits can help, but doesn't guarantee success; instead, strategies like avoiding triggers or replacing bad habits with good ones can increase chances of long-term change.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalSocial and Personality Psychology Compass·DateJun 6, 2024

How does oxygen depletion disrupt memory formation in the brain?

Scientists at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology identify a positive glutamate-NO-glutamate feedback loop that blocks long-term potentiation and impairs learning and memory. The study suggests that this loop may explain memory loss in stroke patients and potentially offer a solution for treatment.