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Science News for March 13, 2024


Drug design at the atomic level to thwart COVID-19

A Stanford University research team has developed a potential new anti-coronavirus drug that binds more tightly and durably than current treatments like Paxlovid. The compound, ML2006a4, performed well in preclinical experiments against SARS-CoV-2 variants that have evolved resistance to Paxlovid.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 13, 2024

Cancer deaths plummet in middle-aged people

A study by Cancer Research UK reveals that mortality rates have dropped by 37% in men and 33% in women, with significant reductions in cervical cancer and lung cancer. However, cancer cases are on the rise overall, and researchers warn of an immense challenge ahead to maintain progress.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBMJ·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2024

Air quality in Europe shows significant improvements over the last two decades, study finds

A study reveals significant improvements in European air quality over the last two decades, with declining levels of PM10 and NO2. However, 98.10% of the population lives in areas exceeding WHO recommended levels for PM2.5, leading to 86.34% experiencing unclean air days annually.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2024

Poor sleep linked to migraine attacks in new UArizona Health Sciences study

A new study by UArizona Health Sciences researchers found that sleep disturbances increase the vulnerability to migraine attacks. Improving sleep health may decrease the likelihood of migraine attacks in people with migraine. The study used preclinical mouse models and found no link between migraine-like pain and disrupted sleep.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalBrain Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 13, 2024

A micro-accelerator for mega-electronvolt electrons: TIFR Hyderabad researchers generate super-fast electrons with table-top laser systems

Scientists from TIFRH successfully generate MeV temperature electrons at a fraction of the previously thought necessary laser intensity. The technique uses two laser pulses to create tiny explosions in microdroplets and accelerate electrons to megaelectronvolt energies.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalCommunications Physics·DateMar 13, 2024

National Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers develop a new control method that optimizes autonomous ship navigation

A team of researchers developed a time-optimal control method for autonomous ships, optimizing maneuvering performance in dynamic sea conditions. The new control system accounts for various forces affecting ship movement and can improve efficiency and safety, reducing shipping costs and carbon emissions.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalOcean Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Wood condition, root constriction and improper pruning can be used as predictors of urban tree failure

A study in São Paulo's central area found that poor wood condition, sidewalk root constriction, and drastic pruning are major predictors of urban tree failure. The researchers propose guidelines for stakeholders to reduce the number of failures, which average 2,000 per year.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateMar 13, 2024

New study reveals unintended ethical faultline in team-based reward systems

A new study published in the Journal of Business Ethics found that team-based reward systems can lead to employees remaining silent when witnessing unethical behavior from fellow team members. The research suggests that these systems can create an environment where undesirable behavior is suppressed, making it less likely to be reported.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

Artificial intelligence detects heart defects in newborns

Researchers developed a computer model that accurately diagnoses pulmonary hypertension in newborn infants using ultrasound images, suggesting correct diagnosis in 80-90% of cases. The model's success relies on highlighting key characteristics, allowing doctors to understand the criteria used for decision-making.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalInternational Journal of Computer Vision·DateMar 13, 2024

‘Junk DNA’ no more: Johns Hopkins investigators develop method of identifying cancers from repeat elements of genetic code

Scientists at Johns Hopkins have developed a novel approach to identify cancer-causing repeats in DNA sequences, enabling non-invasive detection and monitoring of cancers. The ARTEMIS method uses machine learning to analyze cell-free DNA and distinguish between tumor and normal tissues with high accuracy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 13, 2024

Milk to the rescue for diabetics? Cow produces human insulin in milk

Researchers have successfully created a transgenic cow capable of producing human insulin in its milk. This breakthrough could lead to the mass production of insulin without the need for complex facilities or infrastructure. With further testing and FDA approval, this technology has the potential to revolutionize insulin production and...

Revolutionary chronic wound treatment could help millions

A team of international scientists has developed an effective treatment for preventing infection in chronic wounds that does not involve antibiotics. The new method involves the plasma activation of hydrogel dressings, producing a unique mix of chemical oxidants that are effective in decontaminating and aiding healing.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

New high-speed microscale 3D printing technique

Researchers have introduced a more efficient processing technique that enables scalable fabrication of custom microscale particles for applications in drug delivery, microelectronics, and abrasives. This process, called roll-to-roll CLIP, achieves unprecedented fabrication rates while preserving high resolution.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateMar 13, 2024

The integrity of the blood-brain barrier depends on a protein that is altered in some neurodegenerative diseases

A study by University of Barcelona researchers reveals that TDP-43 protein is essential for forming stable blood vessels and maintaining the blood-brain barrier, which prevents toxins from reaching the central nervous system. Deficiency in this protein leads to vascular defects and neuroinflammation.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

The ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine presents seven Next Generation fellowship awards at the 2024 ACMG Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting

The ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine has presented seven Next Generation fellowship awards to promising early career professionals in medical genetics and genomics. The recipients include Xueyang Pan, Bianca Seminotti, and Adriel Yejin Kim, who will support their research projects with corporate donations from Pfizer, S...

High resolution imagery advances the ability to monitor decadal changes in emperor penguin populations

Researchers used VHR satellite imagery to monitor emperor penguin global population trends, finding nearly 10% fewer birds in 2018 compared to 2009. This new monitoring methodology could help with adaptive conservation management efforts and provide insights into the causal factors behind the population trend.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

The future is likely less skiable, thanks to climate change

A new study predicts that climate change will lead to a significant reduction in natural snow cover days globally, with popular ski hubs moving to remote areas. The European Alps, Australian Alps, and Japanese Alps are expected to experience the most decline, threatening local livelihoods and ecosystems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

New computational strategy boosts the ability of drug designers to target proteins inside the membrane

Researchers have demonstrated novel proteins that can efficiently reach intramembrane targets using a customized computer-based approach. The study yields a general computational process for streamlining protein design aimed at intramembrane targets, opening up possibilities for therapeutic applications and understanding signaling mech...

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 13, 2024

HKU scientists unveil significant discovery with potential impact on obesity and osteoporosis treatments

Researchers at HKU made a significant breakthrough in understanding the role of the secretin hormone in regulating energy metabolism and bone homeostasis. They found that secretin plays a vital role in controlling both appetite and bone density, challenging traditional views of its primary function.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Study tracks shifts in student mental health during college

A four-year study by Dartmouth researchers tracks changes in student mental health during college, identifying key populations and stressors. The study found that first-year and female students are at risk for high anxiety and low self-esteem, while sophomores experience increased social activity but higher stress levels.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Interactive Mobile Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

Beetles living in the dark teach us how to make sustainable colors

Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design have discovered how to produce sustainable colors using beetles that live in the dark. By understanding how these beetles' exoskeletons reflect light, scientists can create environmentally friendly materials for various industries. This breakthrough has significant implicatio...

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalAdvanced Engineering Materials·DateMar 13, 2024

With discovery of roundworms, Great Salt Lake’s imperiled ecosystem gets more interesting

Researchers found thousands of nematodes in the lake's reef-like structures, previously thought to be inhabited only by brine shrimp and flies. The discovery suggests bacteria can help these worms adapt to highly saline conditions, opening new lines of inquiry into the Great Salt Lake's web of life.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

Heart disease risk factors of modern lifestyles threaten extremely poor people living in low- and middle-income countries

A new study reveals that adults living in extreme poverty in LMICs have high rates of hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and dyslipidemia, yet are often untreated for these conditions. The findings challenge the common assumption that poverty protection against cardiovascular disease risk factors.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMar 13, 2024

Satellites for quantum communications

Researchers are developing a satellite-based quantum light source for secure communication, leveraging the laws of physics to encode and transmit data. The technology has the potential to extend quantum cryptography over long distances, enabling secure communications between cities or continents.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Quantum Technologies·DateMar 13, 2024

Long COVID patients report improvements following self-regulation therapy, study finds

A study published in Journal of Psychosomatic Research suggests that short-term biofeedback therapy can alleviate certain symptoms of long COVID, including physical and mental health issues. Participants reported significant improvements after six sessions of biofeedback therapy.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Psychosomatic Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

The Wim Hof method may reduce inflammation, per systematic review

The Wim Hof method has been found to increase epinephrine levels and decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines, indicating a potential anti-inflammatory response. However, its impact on exercise performance is less clear, with some studies showing benefits and others finding no significant difference.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 13, 2024

Recreational activities such as golfing, gardening may be associated with increased ALS risk among men

A study by Michigan Medicine found that recreational activities such as golfing, gardening, and woodworking may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in men. The study surveyed over 700 individuals with and without ALS to assess their hobbies and non-work related activities.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of the Neurological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2024

Enhancing crop nutritional analysis: a leap towards precision agriculture with multi-target regression and hyperspectral imaging

A new method using multi-target regression and hyperspectral imaging enhances crop nutritional analysis, predicting multiple element concentrations with improved accuracy. The approach considers inter-element relationships, outperforming traditional single-target regression methods.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Enhancing plant photochemistry analysis: a novel approach to chlorophyll a fluorescence measurement under environmental stress

Researchers developed a dynamic method to measure Chlorophyll a fluorescence, revealing insights into nonphotochemical quenching and moisture loss. The findings suggest that low-frequency gain correlates with NPQ levels and high-frequency gain with plant moisture loss.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

UNH ingenuity offers unique way to track carbon emissions in bodies of water

Researchers at the University of New Hampshire have created a unique way to measure CO2 emissions in streams and rivers, providing valuable information for land use planning and climate action. The adapted sensors can capture frequent measurements, helping understand extreme precipitation events and their impact on water bodies.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Methods·DateMar 13, 2024

How to upcycle low-energy light

Kobe University scientists develop material guideline for high-efficiency PV cells, OLED displays and anti-cancer therapies by understanding energy transfer between molecules. The research enables aligned electron spin states to combine low-energy photons into a high-energy photon.

SourceKobe University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Optical frequency combs make ultraviolet spectroscopy more sensitive and more precise

Researchers at Max Born Institute have successfully implemented high-resolution linear-absorption dual-comb spectroscopy in the ultraviolet spectral range. This breakthrough enables experiments under low-light conditions, paving the way for novel applications in precision spectroscopy and biomedical sensing.

Novel oral hormone therapy shows promising results for prostate cancer treatment with radiation therapy

A high-impact study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of relugolix in conjunction with radiation therapy for localized and advanced prostate cancer, achieving rapid castration and maintaining low testosterone levels. The study also shows no difference between relugolix and leuprolide in time to castration-resistant prostate cancer.

Preliminary clinical trial results show ‘dramatic and rapid’ regression of glioblastoma after next generation CAR-T therapy

Researchers at Mass General Cancer Center have achieved dramatic tumor regression in glioblastoma patients after receiving next generation CAR-T therapy. The treatment, known as INCIPIENT, combines two forms of therapy to target mixed cell populations within tumors.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 13, 2024

Water droplet spun by sound screens for colon cancer

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new diagnostic platform that uses sound waves to spin an individual drop of water up to 6,000 revolutions per minute. The technique separates tiny biological particles within samples to enable new diagnostics based on exosomes.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Revolutionizing forest management: unveiling understory saplings with advanced airborne LiDAR technology

Researchers developed a comprehensive methodology to extract phenotypic parameters of understory regeneration saplings using high-density airborne LiDAR data. The study demonstrated a successful application of this technology, improving detection and matching rates for tree segmentation.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Lower grades, more absences for high schoolers who use both tobacco and cannabis

A recent study found that high school students who use both tobacco and cannabis products miss more school and have lower grades compared to those who don't use either product. The researchers analyzed data from the California Healthy Kids Survey, which showed that students who used both tobacco and cannabis reported the highest percen...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2024

Opening new doors in the VR world, literally

Researchers developed RedirectedDoors+ to overcome VR door-opening challenges, providing users with realistic haptic feedback and guiding them around real walls. The system has been successfully tested in various environments, reducing physical space size by up to 50%.

SourceTohoku University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·DateMar 13, 2024

Clinical study of a blood test shows 83% accuracy for detecting colorectal cancer

A clinical study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a blood test can detect colorectal cancer in 83% of people confirmed to have the disease. The test, which analyzes circulating tumor DNA, offers an alternative to current screening options for patients who may decline traditional methods.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

Burning mouth syndrome: Study unveils instant relief through low level laser therapy

A new study found that low-level laser therapy (PBM) provides immediate pain relief for Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) patients, with a significant drop in pain scores after each treatment. The study also observed a cumulative effect of PBM on alleviating BMS symptoms, especially up to the third treatment.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalOral Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 13, 2024

Next-gen satellite navigation: unlocking ultra-precision with cutting-edge tracking tech

Researchers developed a groundbreaking Dual-assisted Multi-component Tracking (DMT) technique to significantly enhance the precision of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). The innovation leverages wideband multiplexed signals for improved accuracy, reducing tracking jitters and increasing ranging precision.

Ready for the storm: FAMU-FSU researchers analyze infrastructure, demographics to see where tornadoes are most disruptive

Researchers used GIS software to analyze data on tornado frequency, transportation infrastructure, and household income to determine where populations are likely to be more resilient. The study's findings can help local governments pinpoint regions with vulnerable communities and fragile transportation networks.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalSustainability·DateMar 13, 2024

Staying in the loop: how superconductors are helping computers “remember”

Researchers at the University of California San Diego developed superconducting loops that can demonstrate associative memory, allowing computers to remember relationships between unrelated items. The technology has significant power savings, with a million times less energy requirement than traditional computing architecture.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Next generation stool DNA test has best detection rate of noninvasive colorectal cancer screening tools

A new study published in New England Journal of Medicine found that a next generation multi-target stool DNA colorectal cancer screening test detects 94 percent of colorectal cancers, outperforming other noninvasive tests. The test has the best detection rate for both colorectal cancer and advanced precancerous polyps.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 13, 2024

Supply chain disruptions will further exacerbate economic losses from climate change

A new study finds that climate change will further exacerbate projected economic losses from global warming when its impact on global supply chains is factored in. By 2060, total GDP losses could amount to between $3.75 trillion and $24.7 trillion, with supply chain disruptions accounting for a significant proportion of these losses.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2024

​​​​​​​Study links key gene to protection from severe illness and death from Covid infections in men under age 75

A genetic analysis of hospitalized Covid-19 patients found that a certain IL1RN variant protects men under age 75 from severe illness and death. The study showed that the protective gene variant, rs419598, is associated with lower inflammation and reduced mortality in men up to age 74.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

Successful prediction - Antarctic sea ice observations confirm deep learning accuracy

Researchers used a Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory (ConvLSTM) neural network to predict Antarctic sea ice conditions. The prediction results showed a remarkably close alignment with recent satellite observations, confirming the reliability of the forecasting system and its potential for reliable Antarctic sea ice forecasting.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 13, 2024

Federal housing programs protect residents from lead exposure

Research shows that Americans living in federally-supported housing have lower blood lead levels than those who would join these programs later. This likely due to stricter compliance with federal residential lead paint laws in HUD housing compared to non-assisted private market housing.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2024

Enhancing crop productivity analysis: a novel approach using SIF and PRI for accurate GPP estimation in rice canopies

Researchers develop a novel approach using SIF and PRI to estimate GPP in rice canopies, showing significant correlations between these indexes and GPP across various timescales. The study reveals the dynamic responses of PRI/SIF to environmental conditions and demonstrates improved correlation by distinguishing between shaded and sunl...

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Explicit socioemotional learning can have a key role in PE lessons, study says

Researchers found that explicitly teaching socioemotional skills in PE lessons can have a key role in supporting students' communication skills, handling stress and accepting failure. This approach can be integrated into everyday teaching to ensure young adolescents enjoy positive outcomes linked to wellbeing and academic success.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPastoral Care in Education·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

A breakthrough in all-solid-state battery technology, enhancing the performance of the lithium from the bottom

A research team developed an anode protection layer to prevent random electrodeposition of lithium, promoting stable 'bottom electrodeposition' and reducing unnecessary consumption. The breakthrough results in all-solid-state batteries with stable electrochemical performance over extended periods using ultrathin lithium metal anodes.

“Find pearls in the soil” unveiling the magic of hydrogen production from municipal sewage

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology created a novel catalyst that enhances the efficiency of reactions using contaminated municipal sewage to produce hydrogen. The catalyst, called nickel-iron-oxalate (O-NFF), successfully lowers the voltage required for hydrogen generation and promotes the urea oxidation reaction.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 13, 2024

Explaining a supernova's 'string of pearls'

Researchers found that the Crow instability predicts the number and distribution of hydrogen gas clumps around supernovas, including SN1987A. The study suggests that the same mechanism responsible for breaking up airplane contrails may be at play, creating the 'string of pearls' effect.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 13, 2024

ANYmal can do parkour and walk across rubble

Researchers at ETH Zurich taught ANYmal, a quadrupedal robot, to perform parkour and navigate rubble using machine learning. The robot uses its camera and artificial neural network to determine obstacles and perform movements likely to succeed based on previous training.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Robotics·DateMar 13, 2024

Drought, soil desiccation cracking, and carbon dioxide emissions: an overlooked feedback loop exacerbating climate change

Tufts scientists highlight the overlooked feedback loop between drought, soil desiccation cracking, and carbon dioxide emissions, which could accelerate climate change. The study suggests that soil's 80% carbon storage capacity is releasing increasing amounts of greenhouse gases as droughts trigger cracks in soils.

SourceTufts University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Steroid drugs used for HRT can combat E. coli and MRSA

Researchers from the University of Kent have identified steroid drugs used for hormone replacement therapy that can stop the growth of antibiotic-resistant E. coli and effectively kill MRSA. These findings suggest an alternative to conventional antibiotics, providing a potential solution to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 13, 2024

Tirzepatide reduces body weight and waist circumference in people living with overweight or obesity regardless of duration of their condition

New research shows tirzepatide consistently reduces bodyweight and waist circumference, with greater reductions in participants with longer disease durations. Tirzepatide also achieves higher weight loss targets and reduces waist circumference more significantly than placebo across all disease duration categories.