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Science News for March 19, 2024


BU study finds coping is related to longevity in older men

A new study from Boston University found that older men's ability to cope with stressors is crucial for their longevity. The researchers analyzed data from 743 men and discovered that the overall effort put into coping was more important than specific strategies or perceived stress levels. This finding suggests that older adults who st...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Gerontology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 19, 2024

Intersectional stereotypes in English text

Researchers developed a method to extract intersectional stereotypes from large datasets of English text, revealing pervasive androcentric and ethnocentric biases. The study found that certain traits were associated more frequently with specific intersectional groups, such as 'White Men' but not 'Black Women'.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 19, 2024

Change in MYCN-driven cell state opens therapeutic window in high-risk neuroblastoma

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered a potential therapeutic target for high-risk neuroblastoma by studying the cellular personality switch driven by the MYCN protein. Inhibiting the protein KDM4 showed promising anticancer activity, blocking MYCN expression and repressing key oncogenes in disease models.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Brain recordings in people before surgery reveal how all minds plan what to say prior to speaking

A new study reveals that pauses in speech can provide information about how people's brains plan and produce speech. The research found that neighboring brain regions play a crucial role in speech planning, with longer latencies corresponding to planning and shorter latencies indicating physical mechanics of speaking.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalBrain·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Colorectal cancer screening in Araba (Basque Country)

The study found that 90.98% of participants obtained a definitive result from colorectal cancer screening, with 31.71% being normal and 5.49% having non-neoplastic polyps. The results suggest the importance of primary care physicians in promoting secondary prevention and informing the population about the program.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalCancer Screening and Prevention·DateMar 19, 2024

People who are ‘double jointed’ may be at heightened risk of long COVID

A case-control study found that individuals with joint hypermobility were 30% more likely to not fully recover from COVID-19 infection and experience persistent fatigue associated with long COVID. The study, published in BMJ Public Health, also identified other underlying health conditions as risk factors for developing long COVID.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateMar 19, 2024

Novel material for perovskite solar cells can improve their stability and efficiency

Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology developed a new material for perovskite solar cells, which exhibits better power conversion efficiencies and operational stability. The material, synthesised through polymerisation, can be used in both regular and inverted architecture solar cells.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Revolutionizing field phenotyping: A novel glare correction technique using polarized light

A new method for correcting glare in plant phenotyping has been developed, using polarized light to improve accuracy and reduce complexity. The technique has been validated in field trials, showing significant improvements in image data accuracy and reduction of error and variance.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Researchers support increased genomic sequencing of dengue for more effective prevention

Researchers support increased genomic sequencing of dengue for better understanding of genetic diversity, transmission dynamics, and virulence. This could lead to the development of vaccines that don't require pre-screening for serotypes, enabling more efficient vaccination campaigns against this global disease.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMar 19, 2024

Knitting brings calmness and structure to the lives of people with mental illness

A University of Gothenburg study reveals that knitting supports improved health by enabling people to unwind, offering a low-stakes social context, and providing structure. Knitting is found to improve both short-term and long-term mental health outcomes, with many participants noticing a decrease in anxiety and stress.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Occupational Science·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 19, 2024

Empty “backpacks” activate the immune system against cancer

Researchers have demonstrated that attaching 'empty' backpacks to neutrophils activates them against cancer. The treated neutrophils infused into mice with cancer activated other immune cells and reduced tumor size. This technique is attractive as a 'drug-free' cell therapy for cancer.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

MRI and lumbar puncture not necessarily required to manage CAR T-cell therapy complications

A new study suggests that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and lumbar puncture may not be necessary for diagnosing and managing immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) in CAR T-cell therapy recipients. EEG findings often led to adjustments in medications, indicating its continued importance as a diagnostic tool.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateMar 19, 2024

Monoclonal Antibodies in Immunodiagnosis and Immunotherapy appoints new Editor-in-Chief, Cory Brooks, PhD

Cory Brooks has been appointed as the new Editor-in-Chief of the journal, bringing his expertise in structural biology and antibody research to the role. He aims to advance understanding of antibody therapeutics and promote sharing of research on hybridoma technology.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMonoclonal Antibodies in Immunodiagnosis and Immunotherapy·TypeNews article·DateMar 19, 2024

Social bonding gets people on the same wavelength

Researchers found that forming social bonds facilitates quicker and more frequent communication among group members, with neural activity aligning between leaders and followers. The study suggests a potential neurocognitive explanation for the hierarchical structure of human groups.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Addition of atezolizumab to chemotherapy after surgery does not improve survival for triple negative breast cancer

The ALEXANDRA/IMpassion030 phase 3 trial found that adding atezolizumab to chemotherapy after surgery did not improve survival for early-stage triple-negative breast cancer patients. Researchers also found no benefit in different sub-groups, such as those with lymph node spread and PD-L1 positive cancer.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 19, 2024

Researchers reveal roadmap for AI innovation in brain and language learning

A new study highlights the importance of differentiating between formal and functional competence in language learning models. Researchers argue that leveraging human neuroscience insights can help develop more powerful AIs that mimic the brain's modularity, leading to improved performance and natural user interaction.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 19, 2024

In the fight against breast cancer, UMass Amherst researchers identify malignancy hibernation as the next battleground

A new review by UMass Amherst researchers highlights the need for more research on breast cancer cell dormancy, which is a contributing factor to metastatic breast cancer. The study aims to identify gaps in research and develop better models to understand and treat this phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience Advances·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 19, 2024

Monitoring and measuring biodiversity require more than just numbers; scientists advocate for change

A new study published in Trends and Ecology & Evolution recommends using absolute abundance to monitor biodiversity, providing a more precise estimate of species population sizes. This method is harder to collect but offers a more accurate picture of biodiversity, enabling effective conservation actions and policy decisions.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 19, 2024

U.S. maternal death rate increasing at an alarming rate

A new study from Northwestern Medicine found that the US maternal mortality rate increased by nearly doubling between 2014 and 2021, with no correlation to increasing pregnancy-related deaths among older adults. The study highlights the need to investigate other causes of maternal mortality, particularly cardiovascular disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 19, 2024

Study details effects of heat-related emergencies; vulnerable populations found to be most at risk

A new study by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute reveals that nearly one-quarter of US counties had high heat-related emergency activation rates, with the South, Midwest, and Southwest being most affected. Vulnerable communities already at risk for cardiovascular disease were found to be particularly hard hit.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 19, 2024

Researchers led by NTU Singapore and the University of Toulouse discover how our body's immune response to bacterial infections could be ‘hurting’ us

Researchers from NTU Singapore and the University of Toulouse discovered a link between ionophores, cellular ion balance, and inflammation. The study found that cells trigger an immune response when potassium ions fall below a certain level, releasing pro-inflammatory molecules.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

New archive of ancient human brains challenges misconceptions of soft tissue preservation

A new study has compiled a global archive of preserved human brains, challenging the notion that brain preservation is extremely rare. The archive reveals that nervous tissues persist in much greater abundances than traditionally thought, with many brains up to 12,000 years old and found in diverse environments.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateMar 19, 2024

Is your partner’s disturbed sleep keeping you up at night? Letting go of unattainable dreams may keep you both happy in bed

A new study found that individuals with a high capacity for goal disengagement can prevent worsening relationship satisfaction in couples experiencing sleep problems. By learning to let go of unattainable goals, partners can reallocate resources towards protecting and improving their relationship.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 19, 2024

Researchers from IRB Barcelona and Sant Joan de Déu unveil the origin of second pediatric cancers and chemotherapy-induced mutations in healthy tissues

A study by IRB Barcelona and Sant Joan de Déu Hospital reveals three distinct patterns explaining the occurrence of second cancers in children, including a mutational footprint from chemotherapy. The research advances understanding of pediatric cancer and highlights the importance of clinical data sharing.

New technique for Parkinson’s stem cell brain repair brings promise for patients

Researchers at the University of Galway have developed a new method for improving stem cell-based brain repair therapy for Parkinson's disease, which shows promising results in enhancing survival and maturation of cells in the brain. The technique uses a collagen hydrogel to support and protect the cells after transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 19, 2024

Molecular orientation is key: shining new light on electron behavior using 2-photon photoemission spectroscopy

Scientists observed dynamic electronic behavior and surface structure of triphenylene molecules deposited on graphite substrates, revealing a standing-up configuration. The study contributes to the development of new luminescent materials and functional organic electronic devices.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Researchers identify key regulators underlying regeneration in Drosophila

The study reveals Brat's role in regulating wing imaginal discs regeneration by modulating downstream growth factors. Flies with reduced Brat demonstrated improved wing regeneration but also exhibited deficiencies in cell-fate specification, highlighting the delicate balance required for proper regeneration.

New study finds significant differences in intimate partner violence injury patterns across age groups

A recent study reveals significant differences in intimate partner violence injury patterns across age groups, with adolescents experiencing a higher incidence of sexual assault and unique fracture patterns. Healthcare providers can use these findings to detect IPV in previously overlooked age groups, potentially preventing the cycle o...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeObservational study·DateMar 19, 2024

U.S. could cut cervical cancer cases & deaths by up to 20% if more patients got follow-up after screening, study suggests

A new study suggests that removing barriers to cervical cancer screening, surveillance, and diagnostic procedures can save lives and reduce disparities. If every eligible person gets the full screening and follow-up tests recommended, up to 23% fewer people would be diagnosed with cervical cancer and 20% fewer would die from it.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 19, 2024

Drug candidate may ‘unmask’ latent HIV-infected cells, mark them for destruction

Researchers have identified a potential path to eliminate the viral reservoir that prevents people from being completely cured of HIV. A new drug candidate, called a proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTAC) molecule, triggers the degradation of the Nef protein, which suppresses HIV replication and restores immune system detection. This ...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateMar 19, 2024

Insulin affects the recycling of cellular power plants

In nerve cells, insulin facilitates the elimination of defective mitochondria when energy is available. However, during energy scarcity or disrupted insulin signaling, mitochondrial recycling is reduced, allowing potentially damaged power plants to continue operating. This process affects ageing processes and neurological diseases.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMar 19, 2024

Study pulls back the curtain on Supreme Court decision-making

A new study published in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A reveals that Supreme Court decisions are significantly shaped by interactions within the court. The researchers found that justices' decisions result from a complex process of negotiation and influence, rather than personal views or ideological leanings.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 19, 2024

Exercise helps patients with advanced breast cancer, especially if they are suffering with pain

A randomized controlled trial found that exercise programmes reduced fatigue and improved quality of life for patients with metastatic breast cancer. The study showed the greatest benefit among younger patients, but also suggested that supervised exercise can be beneficial for all patients with advanced disease.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 19, 2024

Choosing over the counter drugs for COVID 19? It’s complicated

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University suggest that selecting an OTC medication for mild COVID-19 symptoms should be based on the entire benefit-to-risk profile of the patient. They caution against using traditional NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen due to their similar but greater side effect profiles compared to aspirin.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalThe American Journal of Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 19, 2024

There are large accumulations of plastics in the ocean, even outside so-called garbage patch

A recent study by UFZ and AWI researchers found significant accumulations of plastics in the North Pacific Ocean, extending far beyond the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Microplastics were also discovered in a remote marine protected area northwest of Hawaii, challenging previous assumptions about their distribution.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeCase study·DateMar 19, 2024

Epidemic of fatal prion disease kuru likely led to migration of women in the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea

Researchers found that genetic variants in the Fore population made them resistant to kuru, while a large influx of females migrated into the region due to flexible kinship systems. The study suggests an alternative theory on how Fore communities interacted with neighboring communities despite fears of kuru.

SourceCell Press·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Circulating tumor DNA levels predict treatment outcomes for patients with gastroesophageal cancer treated with a novel immunotherapy combination

A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine found that circulating tumor DNA levels can accurately assess how gastroesophageal cancers respond to treatment and predict future prognosis. The study tracked minimal residual disease by analyzing ctDNA, showing a correlation between ctDNA clearance and cancer-free survival.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 19, 2024

New data show pembrolizumab improves breast cancer outcomes regardless of age or menopausal status

New data show that adding pembrolizumab to chemotherapy before and after surgery for breast cancer leads to better outcomes, with significant increases in pathological complete response rates across all age groups. The study also found similar rates of breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy, as well as lower residual cancer burdens.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 19, 2024

Using ‘time travel’ to think about technology from the perspective of future generations

A study by Osaka University found that thinking about sustainability from the perspective of imaginary future generations yields new insights into technological innovation and societal trends. Participants in workshops ranked indicators differently after adopting this perspective, perceiving technology's feasibility more accurately.

SourceOsaka University·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·TypeCase study·DateMar 19, 2024

A new study contextualizes ownership competence in private firms

Owner-managers' matching competence is essential in the early years of a firm to theorize about potential value combinations. The study also found that family dynamics can hinder growth by constraining owners' judgment and preventing professionalization, but introducing governance mechanisms can resolve this challenge.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Entrepreneurship Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 19, 2024

Numerical models for a better understanding of long-term effects on lake ecosystems

Numerical models help assess ecological impacts of climate change on lakes by simulating changes in phytoplankton composition and community stability. The study found that warming increased seasonal variability in phytoplankton, leading to reduced overall evenness and increased species loss over time.

SourceHun-Ren Ökológiai Kutatóközpont·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 19, 2024

New analysis offers policy solutions for intensive care crisis in rural America

A new policy analysis from Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute identifies the intensive care crisis in rural America and proposes comprehensive solutions. The study suggests policies like reducing uninsured populations through ACA Medicaid expansion and increasing healthcare workforce can strengthen rural intensive care capacity.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateMar 19, 2024

Greenhouse gas emissions in Global South countries linked with IMF lending policies

A recent study suggests that IMF lending policies, especially structural loans, lead to significant increases in greenhouse gas emissions in Global South countries. This effect is most pronounced with second or subsequent loans, which can result in immediate spikes in emissions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSocio-Economic Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 19, 2024

It’s not a hookup: Research reveals what college students mean when they say they’re ‘just talking’

Researchers at Binghamton University found that college students' term 'just talking' refers to building intimacy in a stigmatized environment. The study revealed that romance is more important to emerging adults than expected, and people who engage in 'just talking' often communicate via smartphones and social media.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalEmerging Adulthood·DateMar 19, 2024

Sea surface temperature research provides clear evidence of human-caused climate change

Scientists at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution find strong correlation between CO2 increases and changes in seasonal sea surface temperature patterns. The study reveals distinct features, including increased warming in summer months and thinner mixed-layer depths, with implications for marine ecosystems.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeObservational study·DateMar 19, 2024

Spectroscopy and theory shed light on excitons in semiconductors

Researchers have developed a new method to visualize the quantum mechanical wave function of excitons in organic semiconductors. This understanding is essential for developing more efficient materials with organic semiconductors. The technique, known as photoemission exciton tomography, provides insights into the behavior of excitons i...

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Researchers design new open-source technology for interfacing with living neurons

Researchers developed a new open-source system to interface with living neurons, offering enhanced control and precision in measuring neural processes. The system boasts over 500 electrodes, allowing for more data collection and customization, while being 10 times cheaper than commercial systems.

Did the first cells evolve in soda lakes?

Researchers found that spontaneous RNA extension occurred at rates comparable to laboratory conditions in lake water with low Mg2+ concentrations. Fatty acids formed membranes in dilute water, which persisted even when surrounded by concentrated lake water.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 19, 2024

Low social status increases risk of health problems from alcohol problems

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that individuals with lower income or education levels are more likely to develop medical conditions related to alcohol abuse. The research suggests that these groups may benefit from additional screening by clinicians to evaluate their alcohol consumption and identify related conditions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 19, 2024

Metamaterials and AI converge, igniting innovative breakthroughs

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs by harnessing AI in metamaterials research, leading to faster device development and more precise data analysis. This convergence of AI and metaphotonics has the potential to transform various domains, including diagnosis, environmental monitoring, and security.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalCurrent Opinion in Solid State and Materials Science·DateMar 19, 2024

Research case series presents food as medicine as a potential treatment for lupus and other autoimmune diseases

A new research case series presents three women with systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome who achieved remission of symptoms after following a predominantly raw dietary pattern high in cruciferous vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids. All three patients have remained symptom-free, with two reporting no symptoms for more th...

SourceAmerican College of Lifestyle Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeCase study·DateMar 19, 2024

Details in pregnancy history shed light on risk of dying of cardiovascular disease

Research found that certain patterns of pregnancy history, including early deliveries and multiple hypertensive disorders, are associated with high risk of heart attack and stroke. Others with fewer or no complications have lower risk, suggesting other factors may also play a role in predicting cardiovascular disease mortality.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalPaediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 19, 2024

Immune evasion tactics of liver cancer cells revealed

A faulty beta-catenin gene helps tumours evade immunity by stopping tumor cells releasing message-containing cargoes called exosomes. Silencing mutant-beta-catenin could be a viable therapeutic strategy to trigger immune cell infiltration and increase tumour-to-immune cell communication.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMar 19, 2024

Continuous non-invasive glucose sensing on the horizon with the development of a new optical sensor.

Researchers have developed a miniaturized optical sensor that can detect glucose levels in human blood plasma with comparable sensitivity to laboratory-based sensors. The device operates wirelessly using a coin battery and has demonstrated its viability in detecting glucose levels between 50-400mg/dL.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalAdvanced Sensor Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

A breakthrough in solid-state electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries: Twice the quality with streamlined processes

Researchers at KERI developed a grinding-free wet synthesis process for solid electrolytes, achieving doubled quality with reduced processing time and cost. This innovation enables mass production of high-quality solid-state electrolytes, crucial for all-solid-state battery commercialization.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateMar 19, 2024

Genetic test identifies patients with triple negative breast cancer who are unlikely to respond to immunotherapies

A new genetic test has identified patients with triple negative early-stage breast cancer who are unlikely to respond to immunotherapy drugs. The test, called ImPrintTN, can predict a patient's likelihood of responding to these treatments and help avoid severe side effects.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 19, 2024