Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 26, 2024


Stanford Medicine-designed AI tools tackle soft tissue sarcomas, identify new treatment strategies

Researchers used machine learning tools to map distinct cellular configurations in soft tissue sarcomas, identifying correlations between cell types and clinical outcomes. The analysis uncovered three multicellular communities that correlated with patients' prognoses, potentially informing treatment decisions.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

From autism to Alzheimer’s: A large-scale animal study links brain pH changes to wide-ranging cognitive issues

A large-scale animal study reveals that brain pH and lactate levels are a common feature across various neuropsychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism, depression, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease. Changes in brain energy metabolism are linked to cognitive impairment, particularly working memory.

SourceFujita Health University·JournaleLife·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 26, 2024

Severe hurricanes boost influx of juveniles and gene flow in a coral reef sponge

A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that severe hurricanes can increase the recovery of coral reef sponges by boosting the influx of juveniles and promoting gene flow. Genetic analyses revealed that populations of clonal marine species may benefit from increased frequency and magnitude of hurricanes to maintain gen...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMolecular Ecology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 26, 2024

Researchers modulate electronic state of single-atom catalysts by CO molecular decoration for efficient methane conversion

Scientists develop strategy to regulate electronic structure of single-atom catalysts, enhancing direct methane conversion efficiency. CO molecular decoration reduces C-H bond dissociation barrier, increasing catalyst activity and selectivity.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 26, 2024

Developmental crossroads in the brain

Researchers discovered that MEIS2 plays a critical role in activating genes necessary for the formation of inhibitory projection neurons, vital for motion control and decision-making. A MEIS2 mutation found in patients with intellectual disability disrupts these processes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 26, 2024

Corporations use government grants to lighten debt load

A new study by University of Texas at Austin researchers finds that government cash grants help companies lighten their debt load, with corporations enjoying a 2-3% lower debt-to-equity ratio. However, the grants are often not publicly disclosed, making it difficult for investors and stakeholders to effectively value the benefit.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAccounting Horizons·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

Investigating the loss of musical ability

A new study has identified the likely origin of tone deafness in the brain, finding that strokes causing amusia affect the right hemisphere and a specific region called the superior temporal gyrus. This discovery highlights the differences between processing music and language in the brain, with implications for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJNeurosci·DateMar 26, 2024

New research reveals full diversity of killer whales as two species come into view on Pacific Coast

Two well-known killer whale ecotypes in the North Pacific Ocean have been identified as separate species through genetic and behavioral evidence. The resident and Bigg's killer whales have distinct physical characteristics, diets, and cultural habits, justifying their recognition as distinct species.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

PolyU researchers invent non-invasive diagnostic device Smart-CKD for advancing clinical management of chronic kidney disease

Researchers developed Smart-CKD, a computer-aided diagnostic tool integrating ultrasound data and selected clinical variables to assess renal fibrosis progression in CKD patients. The tool has excellent predictive accuracy and high clinical application value, providing a cost-effective solution for guiding patient management.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalAcademic Radiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Researchers realize electrochemical conversion of CH4 and O2 to HCOOH at room temperature

Scientists have successfully converted methane (CH4) into formic acid (HCOOH) using oxygen (O2) at room temperature through an electrochemical process. The high-pressure electro-Fenton strategy achieved a Faradaic efficiency of 81.4% with an ultra-low cathodic overpotential of 0.38 V.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 26, 2024

Dr. Chana Sacks named Editor-in-Chief of NEJM Evidence

Dr. Chana Sacks is the new Editor-in-Chief of NEJM Evidence, focusing on providing high-quality, practice-changing evidence for medical professionals. The journal aims to change how medical professionals think about generating evidence while making clinical learning engaging and fun.

SourceNEJM Group·JournalNEJM Evidence·DateMar 26, 2024

Micro-Lisa! Making a mark with novel nano-scale laser writing

Flinders University researchers have discovered a light-responsive, inexpensive sulfur-derived polymer receptive to low power, visible light lasers, enabling precise patterns on the polymer surface. This novel system has potential applications in data storage, biomedical devices, electronics, sensors, and microfluidics.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Analysis of social media language using AI models predicts depression severity for white Americans, but not Black Americans

A study using AI models to analyze Facebook posts found that words associated with depression were more predictive of severity in white participants than in Black participants. Researchers highlight the importance of including diverse pools of data to ensure accuracy and tailor effective healthcare interventions.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2024

New treatment target identified for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified PDE4B as a potential target for treating Alzheimer's disease, where reducing its activity shows promise in improving memory and glucose metabolism. The study suggests that this approach may also protect against other forms of dementia, such as Huntington's disease.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Depression in Black people goes unnoticed by AI models analyzing language in social media posts

Researchers found that AI models using language patterns from past studies are less predictive for depression among Black people on Facebook. The study suggests that considering intersection of race and social media can improve depression detection, and calls for more data to learn depression patterns in Black individuals. Better under...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 26, 2024

Two new mutations identified as possible causes of rare blood disorder

Researchers discovered two novel GNE gene mutations that may cause a rare blood disorder called macrothrombocytopenia. The mutations affect the synthesis of sialic acid, critical for brain development and angiogenesis. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanism underlying this disorder and explore therapeutic interventions.

Mount Sinai study calls for major changes in the way people with comorbidities are selected by physicians for lung cancer screening

A Mount Sinai study found that primary care physicians' approach to selecting patients with comorbidities for lung cancer screening is influenced by subjective clinical judgments. The researchers recommend streamlined protocols and clearer guidelines to increase adoption of lung cancer screening for this high-risk population.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 26, 2024

Job flexibility and security promotes better mental health among employees

A new nationwide study found that workplace policies prioritizing job flexibility and security can lead to healthier work environments, reducing stress and improving overall well-being. Employed adults with greater job flexibility and higher job security were less likely to experience serious psychological distress or anxiety.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

Exclusive breastfeeding duration and risk of childhood cancers

A large cohort study found that longer durations of exclusive breastfeeding were associated with a lower risk of childhood B-cell precursor-acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study's results suggest potential biologic mechanisms underlying this association and inform the need for further research on preemptive interventions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 26, 2024

New study finds chiropractic spinal manipulation does not increase the risk of cauda equina syndrome

A large retrospective cohort study found no increased risk of cauda equina syndrome in adults with low back pain who received chiropractic spinal manipulation. The study analyzed over 130,000 patients and suggested that underlying disc degeneration may be a risk factor for CES regardless of treatment approach.

Bullseye! NIST devises a method to accurately center quantum dots within photonic chips

Researchers at NIST developed standards and calibrations for optical microscopes that enable accurate alignment of quantum dots to within 10-20 nanometers. This method could increase the number of high-performance devices by a hundred-fold, improving the reliability of quantum information technologies and biological imaging.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptica Quantum·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Accelerating China's transition to carbon neutrality and clean air

A recent report reveals China's ambitious efforts to synergize air pollution control with carbon neutrality objectives, highlighting significant strides in renewable energy usage and reductions in carbon-intensive industries. The country is making progress in reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality through holistic approach...

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateMar 26, 2024

Late surgical repair for preterm babies born with inguinal hernia shows better results compared to early repair, study finds

A randomized clinical trial has shown that delaying surgical repair of inguinal hernias in preterm infants until after discharge from the NICU reduces serious adverse events. The study found a high likelihood of hernia resolution with late repair, allowing for quicker hospital discharge.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 26, 2024

Curbside collection improves organic waste composting, reduces methane emissions

A new study from the University of Illinois explores the effects of curbside compost collection programs in New South Wales, Australia. On average households redirected 4.2 kilograms of waste to composting, representing 25% of the waste that previously went to landfills.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental and Resource Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 26, 2024

A solar cell you can bend and soak in water

Researchers have developed an organic photovoltaic film that is both waterproof and flexible, enabling a solar cell to be used on clothes without compromising performance. The breakthrough film retained up to 96% of its initial performance after being submerged in water or stretched beyond its limit.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Tiniest ‘starquake’ ever detected – new study

A team of scientists detected the tiniest 'starquakes' ever recorded in the smallest and coolest dwarf star, Epsilon Indi. The detection was made possible by the ESPRESSO spectrograph at the European Southern Observatory's VLT, allowing for unprecedented precision levels.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics Supplement Series·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

£69 million boost for hydrogen at Cranfield

Cranfield University is leading a £69 million research and development project to demonstrate the potential of hydrogen as a net zero aviation fuel. The project, called Cranfield Hydrogen Integration Incubator (CH2i), will create a unique ecosystem to rapidly develop technology for sustainable aviation.

Researchers obtain promising results for control of pollutants in water

Researchers have developed a simple and sustainable method for monitoring and degrading a mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in water. The new approach uses excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy and photochemical systems to achieve efficient degradation, outperforming traditional methods like chromatography.

Penn Medicine study reveals inequities in access to transformative CAR T cell therapy

A new analysis by researchers from Penn Medicine found that minority patients with lymphoma may be less likely to receive CAR T cell therapy due to clinical, provider, and socioeconomic barriers. The study assessed data from two cancer centers and found significant disparities in treatment access among minority populations.

Flu-vaccine education in the emergency department helps people get their shot

A cluster randomized controlled trial found that patient education about flu shots during a non-life threatening emergency department visit increases vaccination rates, particularly in patients without regular primary care. The study showed that participants who received video education materials were more likely to get vaccinated, wit...

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNEJM Evidence·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 26, 2024

Using machine learning to save lives in the ER

A study published in Critical Care identified eight different trauma phenotypes associated with lower in-hospital mortality when treated with tranexamic acid. The researchers used a machine learning model to analyze data from over 50,000 patients and found subgroups of patients who received no benefit from treatment.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCritical Care·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

Handing out vapes in A&E helps smokers quit

A UK trial found that giving e-cigarette starter packs to smokers in emergency departments led to a significant increase in quitting, with nearly one-quarter of participants successful after six months. The intervention also helped those who didn't quit reduce their cigarette smoking.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 26, 2024

Young Black men are dying by suicide at alarming rates

A new study from the University of Georgia reveals that young Black men are experiencing suicidal thoughts at alarming rates, with one in three rural Black men reporting ideation or death thoughts. Childhood adversity and racism are major contributing factors, leading to feelings of mistrust and isolation.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology·DateMar 26, 2024

Faux reefs for coastal protection

Engineers have developed a modular artificial reef structure made of concrete voxels that can dissipate wave energy more effectively than natural coral reefs. The design, optimized through hydrodynamic modeling and experimental testing, has been confirmed by tests at the MIT Towing Tank.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 26, 2024

Researchers from IOCB Prague challenge the limits of molecular memory, opening the door to the development of molecular chips

Researchers from IOCB Prague have developed a molecule that can switch between three distinct states, enabling the storage of complex information. This achievement opens the door to the development of molecular chips with unprecedented capabilities.

Optimizing electronic health records: Study reveals improvements in departmental productivity

A study by Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine reveals that collaborative EHR optimization efforts can significantly improve departmental productivity. The research found notable enhancements in monthly charges and payments, with improvements attributed to accommodations, creations, discoveries, and modifications.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 26, 2024

NHM scientists discover first-ever mineral-based treatment for widespread disease using the structure of crystals

Researchers develop innovative treatment to alleviate deleterious effects of hyperkalemia, a disease affecting 350 million people worldwide. The new mineral-based therapy uses ion transfer to flush excess potassium from the body, offering a safer alternative to existing treatments.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Novel nanocomposites suggested for highly-efficient removal of Cr(VI) in complex environment

Researchers have designed iron-based nanocomposite materials that combine galvanic reactions and nanoconfinement effects to efficiently remove trace Cr(VI) from acidic or alkaline water. The CnZVI/Cu composites show great promise for practical applications in heavy metal pollution remediation.

Implantable device delivers HIV antiviral with more potency than oral drugs

A new nanofluidic implant has been shown to deliver an HIV drug with increased potency compared to existing oral medications, providing a potential breakthrough in addressing treatment nonadherence. The device is intended for long-term controlled release and avoids repeated systemic treatment, which can lead to adverse side effects.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Drug development advances in beneficial loss-of-function (LOF) mutation targets validated by human genetics

Beneficial LOF mutations have been identified as potential targets for disease prevention, with drugs like PCSK9 inhibitors and ANGPTL3 monoclonal antibodies already approved or in clinical trials. New targets like ASGR1 and KHK are also being explored for lipid-lowering and fructose metabolism therapies.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 26, 2024

The construction of visual attention highlighted at the neuronal level

Researchers used intracortical recordings to study the neural mechanisms behind exogenous attention, identifying three cortical networks activated in sequence as attention was captured by visual stimuli. The findings suggest a continuum of activity in the cortex, with attention emerging as a bridge between perception and action.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Artificial reef designed by MIT engineers could protect marine life, reduce storm damage

The MIT-designed 'architected' reef could dissipate more than 95% of incoming wave energy using a fraction of the material needed, reducing erosion and flooding. The cylindrical structure's unique design leverages turbulence to efficiently break waves, making it a potential solution for coastal protection in various water conditions.

Johns Hopkins Children’s Center study shows negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic on youth minority mental health

A recent Johns Hopkins Children's Center study reveals a significant negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth minority mental health. The research found increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts among adolescents in racial and ethnic minorities, with Black females showing a 90.2% increase in suicidal thoughts.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateMar 26, 2024

How genes work together to shape how much you smoke

A recent study by University of Colorado Boulder researchers sheds light on the interactions between genetic variants and their impact on smoking behaviors. The study found that certain gene variants can interact with each other and with Mr. Big, a widely replicated genetic variant associated with smoking behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 26, 2024

Collaborative University of Cincinnati Cancer Center team opens Phase 2 brain tumor trial

The University of Cincinnati Cancer Center team has opened a Phase 2 clinical trial to test a new combination treatment for glioblastomas, a deadly form of brain tumors. The treatment uses letrozole, a drug that targets an enzyme present in breast cancer cells, and temozolomide, a chemotherapy drug already approved as a GBM treatment.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 26, 2024

Italians’ and Swedes’ gestures vary when they tell stories, which may show cultures think differently about narratives

Italian speakers gesture more frequently than Swedes when retelling a story, using pragmatic gestures to present new parts of the narrative. Swedes instead rely on representational gestures to convey events and actions, indicating differing rhetorical styles and ways of conceptualizing narratives.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Communication·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

Structural basis for the regulatory mechanism of mammalian mitochondrial respiratory chain megacomplex-I2III2IV2

Researchers have solved the high-resolution structures of porcine megacomplex-I2III2IV2, showing a plausible regulatory mechanism for its activation/deactivation process. The complex shifts from active to deactive states through conformational changes, with key interactions between CI and CIII playing a critical role in electron transfer.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalhLife·DateMar 26, 2024

Safe viewing of solar eclipses

Experts recommend using handheld solar viewers with a solar filter to safely view the eclipse. The American Academy of Ophthalmology also warns against using home-made filters or pinholes to view the eclipse.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 26, 2024

New data offer reality check on blood-based colorectal cancer screening

New data suggest that blood-based colorectal cancer screening tests could lead to more cases and deaths than established methods, despite improving outcomes for unscreened individuals. The tests are predicted to be less effective and more costly, making them unsuitable replacements for current screening programs.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 26, 2024

Researchers a step closer to a cure for HIV

Researchers have found an effective and affordable targeted treatment strategy for an HIV cure, using a virus-like particle that can 'shock and kill' latent HIV reservoirs. The study demonstrates the therapy is 100 times more effective than other candidate HIV cure therapeutics.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalEmerging Microbes & Infections·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Better prostate cancer care for highly educated

A study published in International Journal of Cancer found that men with advanced degrees and higher incomes are more likely to receive comprehensive care for prostate cancer, including MRI scans and curative treatment. This leads to lower mortality rates from the disease compared to those with lower education and income.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

Silicon spikes take out 96% of virus particles

A new virus-killing surface made of silicon nanospikes has shown 96% effectiveness against the hPIV-3 virus, damaging its structure and membranes. The surface can be incorporated into devices and surfaces to prevent viral spread and reduce disinfectant use.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal article unveils metabolic strategies to enhance CAR-T cell therapy

Researchers unveil innovative strategies to overcome metabolic constraints in CAR-T cell therapy, aiming to boost its efficacy in treating solid tumors. Metabolic interventions targeting immunosuppressive metabolites, metabolite uptake, and mitochondrial metabolism are proposed to enhance anti-tumor activity.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 26, 2024