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Science News for March 18, 2024


An innovative mixed light field technique for immersive projection mapping

A novel mixed light field technique was developed to achieve immersive augmented reality experiences in bright environments, preserving natural shadows and contrast. The approach utilizes ray-controlled lighting and a binary search algorithm to remove ambient lighting from PM targets.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Scientists’ discovery could reduce dependence on animals for vital anti-blood clot drug

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a patented process to produce heparin in the lab, offering a consistent and safe supply of the essential medicine. The discovery has the potential to revolutionize the production of heparin, reducing reliance on animal-derived sources and addressing global supply chain issues.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Intermittent food intake activates a 'GPS gene' in liver cells, thus completing the development of the liver after birth

The study reveals that a gene called mTOR, which works like a GPS, directs the specialization of liver cells according to their position. After birth, the fluctuation in nutrient supply triggers the activation of this gene, completing the maturation of the liver.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Advancements in greenhouse spike detection: Leveraging deep learning and attention mechanisms for enhanced phenotypic trait analysis

This study leverages attention mechanisms based deep learning models to improve spike detection in greenhouse cultivated grain crops. The Swin Transformer model demonstrates superior accuracy, while the FRCNN-A provides a faster training alternative.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

A KAIST-Seoul National University Hospital research team develops a computational workflow that predicts metabolites and metabolic pathways associated with somatic mutations in cancers

A KAIST-Seoul National University Hospital research team has developed a computational workflow that predicts metabolites and metabolic pathways associated with somatic mutations in cancers. The workflow uses genome-scale metabolic models and mutation data to identify altered metabolic pathways that contribute to cancer progression.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalGenome Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 18, 2024

Projection mapping leaves the darkness behind

Conventional projection mapping systems work only in dark environments due to surrounding illumination. Researchers from Osaka University developed a method to control both image and illumination, allowing for realistic projections in bright environments. This technology enables interactive displays with multiple viewers under natural ...

SourceOsaka University·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Rice research could advance soft robotics manufacturing, design

A team of Rice University researchers has developed an analytical model that can predict the curing time of platinum-catalyzed silicone elastomers as a function of temperature. The model could help reduce energy waste and improve throughput for elastomer-based components manufacturing, enabling more efficient soft robotics design.

SourceRice University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMar 18, 2024

AI tools and parent support could be keys to unlock perfectionism

A new pilot study explores the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence-supplemented Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Perfectionism (CBT-P) intervention for young people with anxiety and depression. The research suggests that AI tools could provide strong guidance through a therapy program, while parent support is also crucial in hel...

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternet Interventions·TypeCase study·DateMar 18, 2024

Class of Alzheimer's drug presents unique challenge for patients with cardiovascular disease, says JAMA article

A new JAMA article highlights the need for improved decision making prior to initiating lecanemab, an FDA-approved Alzheimer’s Disease drug, due to its potential side effects on patients with cardiovascular disease. The authors advocate for advanced care planning and shared decision-making models to guide treatment decisions.

Inorganic nitrate can help protect patients against kidney damage caused during coronary angiographic procedures

A five-day course of inorganic nitrate significantly reduces contrast-induced nephropathy rates, improves three-month renal function, and lowers one-year major adverse cardiac events. The trial also shows improved kidney outcomes at three months compared to placebo.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 18, 2024

Glucose levels affect cognitive performance in people with type 1 diabetes differently

A new study reveals that glucose fluctuations affect cognitive function in people with Type 1 Diabetes, but individuals differ in their susceptibility. The researchers found that minimizing glucose fluctuations is crucial for optimizing processing speed, especially for older adults and those with certain health conditions.

SourceMcLean Hospital·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 18, 2024

Landmark study shows that ‘transcendent’ thinking may grow teens’ brains over time

A landmark study found that adolescents who grapple with the bigger meaning of social situations experience greater brain growth. This type of thinking predicts stronger identity development and life satisfaction years later. Brain networks involved in effortful thinking and internal reflection coordinate to predict psychosocial outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 18, 2024

A new antibody capture method reveals G-quadruplex landscape and its regulation

Researchers developed an improved method for G4 landscape determination, revealing that sequence property-specific constraints in the nuclear environment mitigate G4 formation. The technique, AbC G4-ChIP, captures G4s efficiently without bias, showing that depletion of a repeat-binding protein enhances net G4 capture at specific sites.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeObservational study·DateMar 18, 2024

Addressing both flu and COVID-19 through a single, multitasking injection

A new multitasking substance has been identified to prevent and treat both flu and COVID-19 infections concurrently. The long-acting recombinant cytokine protein rhIL-7-hyFc demonstrated therapeutic and preventive effects against various respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, influenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMar 18, 2024

New Earth Science Frontiers study highlights achievements of the scientific drilling of Songliao Basin

A groundbreaking scientific drilling project has unearthed the world's longest geological record of the Cretaceous period, spanning over 50 million years. The project, led by Professor Wang Chengshan, has provided crucial insights into paleoclimate research and will continue to aid in predicting future climate trends.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEarth Science Frontiers·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 18, 2024

Hypofractioned post-prostatectomy radiotherapy new acceptable practice standard based on NRG Oncology trial findings

A new acceptable practice standard for hypofractionated post-prostatectomy radiotherapy has been established based on the NRG Oncology trial findings. The study showed that HYPORT was non-inferior to COPORT in terms of late GI or GU toxicity, with greater short-term GI toxicity associated with HYPORT but resolving at 6 months following...

SourceNRG Oncology·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMar 18, 2024

Newly discovered link between FBXW7 mutations and EGFR signaling in colorectal cancer

A new link has been discovered between FBXW7 mutations and EGFR signaling activity in colorectal cancer. The study found that the mutated form of the FBXW7 gene could no longer degrade the EGFR protein, leading to increased signaling activity and a decreased response to anti-EGFR treatment.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

The majority of Americans do not support anti-democratic behavior, even when elected officials do

A new study found that most Americans reject democratic norm violations and political violence, with only a small percentage supporting them. Researchers also discovered that there is no significant correlation between constituents' opinions and policymakers' actions on election denial.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateMar 18, 2024

Tunable VO2 cavity enables multispectral manipulation from visible to microwave frequencies

Scientists create a multispectral platform using tunable optical cavities with vanadium dioxide, enabling fast response speed and reversible manipulation. The platform achieves broadband color-changing capacity in the visible region and drastic amplitude tunability in infrared to microwave regions.

Novel design enhance thermal insulation and impact resistance in composite glass

A new composite glass material has been developed by combining a nacre-inspired structure with shear stiffening gel, exhibiting excellent thermal insulation and impact resistance. The material offers improved transparency, lightweight properties, and enhanced comprehensive performance compared to traditional bulk glass.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 18, 2024

UMD researchers develop genomic method of monitoring for pesticide resistance

Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a genomic method to monitor pesticide resistance in crops, allowing for early detection of emerging threats. The approach identifies specific genes with mutations that can explain toxin resistance, and provides insights into how common strategies may be facilitating resistance.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Study eases concern at antipsychotics use in pregnancy

A new international study led by UNSW Sydney found no increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders and learning difficulties after exposure to antipsychotics during pregnancy. The study tracked the long-term risk of intellectual disability, poor academic performance in maths and language, or learning, speech and language disorders.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 18, 2024

Over half of global commutes are by car, says study

According to a new study, around 51% of global commutes are made by car, varying greatly across regions. In contrast, cities like Copenhagen, Paris, and Utrecht rely heavily on cycling and public transportation. The US also shows minimal variation in modal share across cities, with nearly 92% of commutes made by car.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalEnvironment International·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 18, 2024

Sustainable development of unconventional resources: Analysis of transient linear flow oriented straight-line analysis technique

Researchers review advances and challenges in applying SLA to evaluate unconventional reservoirs, highlighting its simplicity and convenience. The study proposes modifications to address reservoir heterogeneity and suggests combining SLA with machine learning algorithms for improved accuracy.

SourceEnergy Reviews·JournalEnergy Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 18, 2024

Attacking metastatic prostate cancer early with combination treatment approach improves outcomes in preliminary study

A combination of short-course hormonal therapy and stereotactic body radiation therapy has been shown to be safe and effective in treating metastatic prostate cancer. In a preliminary study, 50% of patients remained recurrence-free six months after treatment, with less than a quarter experiencing severe side effects.

Overeating and starving both damage the liver: Cavefish provide new insight into fatty liver disease

Researchers have identified a gene responsible for the development of starvation-induced fatty liver in cavefish, which are able to protect their liver due to reduced fat accumulation. This genetic basis has implications for understanding and addressing liver conditions in humans, including Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Research shows that Black individuals with a genetic mutation in the TTN gene have increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation, heart failure

Researchers found that Black individuals carrying genetic variants in the Titin, TTN gene have a high risk of developing atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and dilated cardiomyopathy. The study used data from the All of Us Research Program to examine the role of these genetic mutations in African ancestry individuals.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 18, 2024

Can used coffee grounds help clean up environmental toxins?

New research reveals spent coffee grounds can act as an efficient adsorbent of bentazone, a highly neurotoxic herbicide. Activated carbon from spent coffee grounds showed a 70% efficiency in bentazone removal and high sensitivity to pollutants.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology·DateMar 18, 2024

Rehabilitative reform

University of Missouri researcher Kelli Canada is using a $2.8 million grant to transform prison conditions in four Missouri prisons. Her multi-pronged mission includes staff training, physical space changes, skill building for residents, and community connections.

Laws that punish drug use during pregnancy likely lead to worse health outcomes for families

A study by researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that laws criminalizing or punishing drug use during pregnancy are more likely to worsen rather than improve health outcomes. The findings suggest that punitive policies are ineffective and may even increase harm to pregnant individuals and their babies.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateMar 18, 2024

Mimicking exercise with a pill

Researchers have discovered compounds that can activate estrogen-related receptors (ERRs), similar to the effects of exercise on metabolism and muscle growth. The new compounds may offer a substitute for exercise in people with medical conditions, such as heart failure and neurodegenerative disease.

Backyard insect inspires invisibility devices, next gen tech

Researchers have precisely replicated the complex geometry of leafhopper particles, called brochosomes, which absorb visible and ultraviolet light. The unique design serves a dual purpose, reducing visibility to predators and scattering visible light for potential threats.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

A wetter world recorded in Australian coral colony

Researchers analyzed coral core samples from northeastern Queensland, Australia, to reconstruct past rainfall patterns. The study found a significant correlation between increased rainfall and geochemical signals in the corals, indicating a 10% increase in wet-season rainfall and more than doubled extreme rain events since 1750.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateMar 18, 2024

New discovery concerning occurrence of antibiotic resistance

A new study by Uppsala University researchers demonstrates that heteroresistance, a common transient resistance in bacteria, can facilitate the development of antibiotic resistance. The study found that heteroresistant bacteria carrying more resistance gene copies result in slower growth and increased risk of treatment failure.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Middle-aged Americans lonelier than European counterparts

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that middle-aged adults in the US tend to report significantly higher levels of loneliness compared to their European counterparts. The study suggests that cultural norms, socioeconomic influences, and social safety nets between the two regions may contribute to the 'lo...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·TypeSurvey·DateMar 18, 2024

Americans support democratic norms, elected officials don't

A recent study found that most Americans support democratic norms, with 17.2% of Democrats and 21.6% of Republicans supporting at least one norm violation. However, the researchers also discovered a divide between everyday citizens and elected officials who are pushing against democratic governance.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateMar 18, 2024

Understanding what causes trastuzumab’s cardiotoxicity

A meta-analysis of mitochondria-related gene expression data reveals an imbalance in mitochondrial functions after trastuzumab treatment, potentially leading to heart failure. The study provides innovative insights into the mechanisms of trastuzumab cardiotoxicity and informs future drug discovery and precision oncology research.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalOMICS A Journal of Integrative Biology·TypeCase study·DateMar 18, 2024

Eyes open and toes out of water: how a giant water bug reached the island of Cyprus

Citizen science plays a crucial role in detecting the giant water bug's presence on Cyprus, with seven sightings recorded in 2020 and 2021. The species, known for its painful bites and hunting habits, is unlikely to have gone unnoticed for too long, sparking discussions about possible migration events.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalTravaux du Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle “Grigore Antipa”·DateMar 18, 2024

Reimagining the future of solar energy

Scientists at the University of Cambridge discovered that making solar cells super-efficient is harder than thought, but found alternative ways to improve energy capture. They proposed flexible, semi-transparent panels that can fold up and be integrated into various settings.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJoule·DateMar 18, 2024

Clinical, biomarker, and research tests among US government personnel and their family members involved in anomalous health incidents

A recent study investigated anomalous health incidents among US government personnel and their family members. The researchers found that individuals experiencing these incidents did not show significant differences in clinical measures compared to matched control participants, except for fatigue, posttraumatic stress, and depression.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 18, 2024

Innovative magnetic levitation: New material offers potential for unlocking gravity-free technology

Researchers at OIST create a floating platform using graphite and magnets that operates without external power, opening potential for ultra-sensitive sensors and precision measurements. The new material, derived from graphite, overcomes energy loss challenges, allowing the platform to achieve 'frictionless' motion.

Progress in developing specific immunotherapies for type 1 diabetes

Researchers have developed a novel immunotheraphy targeting macrophages to induce tolerance in type 1 diabetes, demonstrating its potential as a curative treatment. The therapy also shows promise for other autoimmune diseases, with results suggesting no impact on the immune system's ability to capture and process liposomes.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalJournal of Autoimmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Text nudges can increase uptake of COVID-19 boosters– if they play up a sense of ownership of the vaccine

Researchers found that adding a note to play up psychological sense of ownership was more effective at convincing people to get the booster. This approach outperformed lab findings and expert insights, highlighting the importance of reproducibility in behavioral science.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 18, 2024

Holographic message encoded in simple plastic

Researchers at TU Wien have demonstrated the possibility of encoding valuable data, such as Bitcoin wallet addresses, in ordinary plastic using 3D printing and terahertz radiation. By adjusting the thickness of the plastic plate to alter the terahertz wave, a holographic image is created that stores the desired code.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

New research finds boreal arctic wetlands are producing more methane over time

Scientists have developed a new model to accurately understand methane emissions in the region, finding that wetlands are producing more methane over time. This is due to the warming of these biomes, causing the stored carbon to be released into the atmosphere as methane, contributing to global warming.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 18, 2024