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Science News Archive June 2024 - Page 32


Page 32 of 39

HKUST researcher developed liquid metal-based electronic logic device that mimics intelligent prey-capture mechanism of Venus flytrap

A research team led by HKUST developed a liquid metal-based electronic logic device that mimics the intelligent prey-capture mechanism of Venus flytraps. The device exhibits memory and counting properties, allowing it to respond intelligently to stimulus sequences without additional components.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

New technology gives people a better sense of what they’re breathing

Scientists developed a miniaturized micro-spectrometer to detect multiple toxic and greenhouse gases, offering increased control over individual exposure. The technology uses machine learning and metasurface spectral filter arrays to create a compact sensor that can be integrated into wearable devices.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

Low doses of kretek cigarette smoke altered rat lung histometric, and overexpression of the p53 gene

A study found that low doses of filtered kretek cigarette smoke altered rat lung histometric measurements, increasing the size of respiratory bronchioles. P53 gene overexpression was also observed in response to exposure. The findings suggest potential health risks from even low levels of kretek cigarette smoke.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Respiratory Medicine Journal·DateJun 6, 2024

Desert hero unveiled: Cissus quadrangularis genome decodes drought survival tactics

A recent study has unlocked the genetic secrets of Cissus quadrangularis, a desert-dwelling plant with extraordinary drought tolerance. The discovery sheds light on its Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) pathway and genetic adaptations, providing insights into developing crops that can withstand water scarcity.

The butterfly effect: excessive vegetation in Arabia triggered massive butterfly migrations in 2019 across Europe and Africa

A 2019 study found that high vegetation growth in the Middle East attracted painted lady butterflies, which then migrated across Europe and Africa. Pollen analysis revealed the origins of the migration routes, highlighting the importance of citizen science and monitoring insect migrations.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

The body’s own lipids affect mental disorders: Can specific inhibitors help?

Research suggests that altered lipid signaling in brain cells contributes to mental disorders, with specific inhibitors showing promise in rebalancing this mechanism. The study found similar changes in both human patients and healthy relatives, as well as mice with genetic disorders, opening up new treatment opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

Rensselaer researchers upend theory about the formation of the Milky Way Galaxy

Heidi Jo Newberg and Tom Donlon's research using Gaia data reveals the Milky Way Galaxy's last major collision occurred billions of years later than previously thought. The team found that the galaxy's wrinkles, formed by collisions with other galaxies, dissipated over time, allowing them to trace the timing of the final collision.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 6, 2024

The rise of horse power ~4,200 years ago

Researchers found that domestic horses were produced in large numbers around 4200 years ago, marking the start of a new era in human history. This led to unprecedented exchanges and interactions among diverse cultures across Eurasia.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 6, 2024

How do you know where a fish goes?

A new method developed by researchers at Florida Atlantic University and the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center improves the accuracy of acoustic tracking in marine animals. The method uses a movement model to reconstruct animal tracks, even in regions with uneven receiver coverage.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2024

Omega-3 therapy prevents birth-related brain injury in newborn rodents

A study by Columbia University researchers found that an injectable omega-3 emulsion can prevent brain damage in newborn rodents after oxygen deprivation near birth. The therapy, which enhances omega-3 fatty acids' ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, reduced brain damage and preserved neurologic function.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

Can big cats sing parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme?

A study by Kyoto University found that snow leopards consume the plant genus Myricaria in their feces when hungry. This suggests a link between prey and plant intake in these large alpine cat carnivores. The research provides insight into improved captive environments and suitable conservation plans for snow leopards.

SourceKyoto University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 6, 2024

Only around half of individuals disclose or believe they should reveal having an STI prior to sexual intercourse, research to-date suggests

A review of research suggests that only around half of individuals feel comfortable disclosing their STI diagnosis to a partner before engaging in sexual activity. Comprehensive sex education is needed to prevent the spread of infections and support individuals with diagnosed STIs.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 6, 2024

The molecular profile of Rheumatoid Arthritis patients at increased cardiovascular risk is identified

Researchers have established a molecular profile of Rheumatoid Arthritis patients who are at increased risk of cardiovascular events. The study analyzed blood serum samples from over 300 patients and identified three groups with similar patterns, revealing that one group is more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·DateJun 6, 2024

Poor quality diet makes our brains sad

A study of 30 volunteers found that a poor diet can lead to changes in neurotransmitters and grey matter volume, commonly associated with depression and anxiety. Adhering to a Mediterranean-style diet was shown to prevent these changes.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNutritional Neuroscience·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 5, 2024

How a protein component of nuclear pore complexes regulates development of blood cells and may contribute to myeloid disorders

A recent study has identified Nup358 as a critical regulator of myeloid cell development, revealing its role in the differentiation process of early progenitors. The findings provide insights into how alterations in Nup358 contribute to blood malignancies and may lead to novel therapies targeting transport machinery like NPCs.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2024

New Gene therapy trial shows restored hearing and speech in children born deaf, treated in both ears

A novel gene therapy has restored hearing function in five children with DFNB9 who were treated in both ears, demonstrating additional benefits compared to a previous trial. The treatment also improved speech perception and sound localization abilities, including the ability to appreciate music.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 5, 2024