Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 28, 2024


Highly efficient GaN-based vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers

GaN-based VCSELs have potential applications in adaptive headlights, retinal scanning displays, and high-speed visible light communication systems due to their high efficiency and low fabrication cost. The new method for precise cavity length control enables highly controlled fabrication of VCSELs with aperture sizes ranging from 5 to ...

SourceMeijo University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Do sweeteners increase your appetite? New evidence from randomised controlled trial says no

A new study has found that replacing sugar with artificial and natural sweeteners in foods does not make people hungrier, but may help reduce blood sugar levels. The trial involved 53 adult men and women with overweight or obesity and found no differences in appetite or endocrine responses compared to sugar.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 28, 2024

USF study: Genomic research may help explain cancer resistance in Tasmanian devils

Researchers from USF have made significant findings on the genetic basis of disease, using a joint genome-wide association study to track co-evolution between Tasmanian devils and an infectious cancer. The study provides valuable insights that can inform epidemiological models and devil management strategies.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2024

Rutgers racing to develop Paxlovid replacement

Researchers from Rutgers University have developed an oral COVID-19 treatment that inhibits disease progression in animals, paving the way for human trials. The treatment, dubbed Jun12682, interferes with viral papain-like protease and shows promise as a potential replacement for Paxlovid.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Benchmarking theory with experiments for oxygen reduction catalysts

Tohoku University researchers created a reliable means of predicting the performance of molecular metal-nitrogen-carbon (M-N-C) catalysts. Their breakthrough uses pH-field coupled microkinetic modeling to evaluate charge transfer at the Fe-site, identifying suitable surrounding functional groups for oxygen reduction reactions.

Genetic testing of patients with atrial fibrillation can alert clinicians to potential development of life-threatening conditions

A recent White Paper published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology analyzes the current understanding of genetics in atrial fibrillation and recommends screening for genetic heart disease in early onset AF cases. This may lead to identification of life-threatening ventricular cardiomyopathy and channelopathy syndromes, highlighting t...

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 28, 2024

DGIST develops thermoelectric material with optimal cost, efficiency, and flexibility! Pioneering a new era in eco-friendly thermoelectric technology

A team at DGIST has developed an 'Inorganic-Organic Thermoelectric Composite' that promises competitive pricing while addressing efficiency and flexibility challenges in thermoelectric technology. The breakthrough is expected to revolutionize traditional industries and pave the way for advancements in new sectors.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 28, 2024

‘Exhausted’ immune cells in healthy women could be target for breast cancer prevention

A study published in Nature Genetics reveals early cell changes in healthy carriers of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, suggesting a potential target for breast cancer prevention. The researchers created the world's largest catalogue of human breast cells, which may lead to the use of existing immunotherapy drugs as an early intervention.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 28, 2024

Study shows improved outcomes in hospitals accredited for rectal cancer surgery

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that hospitals accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC) demonstrate significantly better outcomes for patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery. These institutions show lower rates of mortality, complications, and morbidity comp...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 28, 2024

New study shows association of historical housing discrimination and shortfalls in colon cancer treatment

A nationwide study finds that individuals diagnosed with colon cancer who resided in previously redlined neighborhoods are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage disease and have worse survival rates. The research highlights the long-lasting impact of institutional racism on access to quality cancer care.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJCO Oncology Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 28, 2024

The language spoken by others conditions our ability to predict their actions from an very early age, according to a study by UPF

A study by UPF found that six-month-old babies can predict the actions of people who speak their native language, but not those who speak an unfamiliar language. This suggests that infants' ability to predict others' behavior is linked to the language they speak and may be influenced by social factors.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Lyrebird synchronizes elements of its mating dance

Researchers found that Albert's Lyrebirds synchronize their footwork with the beat of their song and manipulate the environment by shaking thorny vines to create a choreographed courtship display. This behavior is thought to enhance the male's display, making him appear bigger and more vigorous.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe American Naturalist·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 28, 2024

When inequality is more than “skin-deep”: Social status leaves traces in the epigenome of spotted hyenas in Tanzania

Researchers found that social status is reflected in epigenetic signatures, including DNA methylation patterns, in juvenile and adult free-ranging spotted hyenas. These patterns are linked to important physiological processes such as energy conversion and immune response.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 28, 2024

Is it the school, or the students?

A recent study by MIT scholars reveals that widely disseminated school quality ratings are heavily dependent on the preparation and family background of their students. The study finds that many schools with low ratings perform better than expected, and conventional ratings are highly correlated with race.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Economic Review Insights·DateMar 28, 2024

*Free* Study in Ethiopian cattle quantifies protective benefits of BCG tuberculosis vaccine

A new study by Abebe Fromsa and colleagues found that the BCG vaccine reduces disease transmission by 89%, with consistent vaccination likely bringing the disease under control within a few decades. The results suggest that BCG vaccination could be used to substantially eliminate bovine tuberculosis in the Ethiopian dairy sector.

HKUST researchers develop revolutionary biomimetic olfactory chips to enable advanced gas sensing and odor detection

Researchers at HKUST developed biomimetic olfactory chips with up to 10,000 individually addressable gas sensors per chip, achieving exceptional sensitivity and distinguishability for mixed gases. These chips have potential applications in industries, security patrols, and rescue operations, and may one day be used to detect diseases b...

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Electronics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 28, 2024

Clear shift in arterial diseases in diabetes

Studies at the University of Gothenburg found a clear shift in arterial disease risks in diabetes, with decreases in central organ diseases like heart attack and stroke, but increases in peripheral vessel complications. Closer monitoring of long-term blood sugar levels can reduce peripheral arterial disease risk by 30-50%.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2024

Movement of crops, animals played a key role in domestication

Recent research connects biological domestication to early food globalization, proposing a new conceptual framework that challenges traditional narratives. Archaeological investigations have shown that plant and animal domestication entailed a more gradual transition spanning thousands of years across extensive geographies.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2024

New method developed to isolate HIV particles

Researchers develop a new method to efficiently capture and isolate HIV particles using nanofibrils and magnetic beads. This innovation improves the sensitivity of existing diagnostic tools, enabling better monitoring of viral infections and resistance.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

DGIST develops high-efficiency photocatalyst for converting carbon dioxide into environmentally friendly energy using sunlight

A new photocatalyst developed by DGIST's In Su-il research team converts carbon dioxide into useful fuel more efficiently than existing TiO2 catalysts. The technology has the potential to be applied to Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) technology, offering a promising solution to reduce global warming.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateMar 28, 2024

Generative AI develops potential new drugs for antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Stanford Medicine and McMaster University developed a generative AI model called SyntheMol that creates recipes for chemists to synthesize novel antibiotics. The model generated six compounds with high potential to kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including Acinetobacter baumannii, E. coli, and MRSA.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 28, 2024

Older brain cells linger unexpectedly before their death

Researchers discovered that mature oligodendrocytes, critical for brain function, can survive for up to 45 days after a fatal trauma, defying the classical programmed cell-death pathway. This finding opens new avenues for understanding and potentially preventing damage caused by aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Joint research team of DGIST-Sogang Univ. has developed a high-efficiency catalyst for converting carbon dioxide, the main cause of global warming, into ethylene using “vitamin C”

Researchers developed a high-efficiency catalyst that converts carbon dioxide into ethylene using vitamin C. The catalyst promotes the formation of essential intermediate product carbon monoxide at high current density, overcoming existing electrochemical catalyst limitations.

New imaging method illuminates oxygen's journey in the brain

A new bioluminescence imaging technique allows researchers to observe oxygen movement in the brains of mice in real-time, providing insights into diseases such as Alzheimer's and strokes. The method reveals that small areas of the brain, called 'hypoxic pockets,' can be denied oxygen for brief periods, increasing risk for these diseases.

DGIST research team develops next-generation semiconductor memory that operates in extreme environments

Researchers at DGIST have developed a new manufacturing technology that enables the production of high-quality oxide films and effective patterning at low temperatures. The technology is expected to be used in next-generation computing systems, overcoming existing shortcomings.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Material Science and Technology·DateMar 28, 2024

Indoor air quality standards in public buildings would boost health and economy, say international experts

International experts, led by Professor Lidia Morawska, recommend setting standards for ventilation rate and three key indoor pollutants to improve indoor air quality. The recommended standards could help minimize the spread of airborne diseases like COVID-19 and contribute to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 28, 2024

Researchers improve reversibility and specific capacity of iron-based phosphate cathodes for Na-ion batteries

A new iron-based phosphate cathode material has been developed with improved reversible capacity and energy density, enabling fast-charge capability and superior cycling performance. The material uses a bi-phase intergrowth heterogeneous structure to activate the inert phase, achieving high capacity and long cycle life.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 28, 2024

Memories of mitosis: Molecular mechanism that detects defects during cell division could aid cancer treatment

Researchers discovered a protein complex that eliminates potentially harmful cells over time by measuring the duration of mitosis. The Mitotic Stopwatch Complex starts forming after prolonged mitosis and triggers cell arrest or death, providing new insights into cancer development.

Wayne State University researchers uncover potential treatment targets for Zika virus-related eye abnormalities

A groundbreaking study reveals that targeting cholesterol metabolism can mitigate Zika virus-induced ocular pathology, offering promising therapeutic strategies. Researchers identified ABCG1 and SREBP-2 as key players in the pathway, and treatments with LXR agonists or SREBP-2 inhibitors showed promise in animal models.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Development of soft and highly durable brain electrodes that stick to the brain to treat brain diseases

Researchers at DGIST have created highly durable brain electrodes made of soft and elastic materials, sticking well to the curved brain surface. These electrodes can maintain stable performance over long-term use, enabling various applications in brain–machine interfaces and electronic medical devices.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·DateMar 28, 2024

Artificial Intelligence tool successfully predicts fatal heart rhythm

An AI tool developed by researchers at the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust correctly identified lethal ventricular arrhythmia in 80% of cases. The tool performed well compared to current medical guidelines, suggesting a novel approach for determining patient risk and appropriate treatment.

SourceUniversity Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 28, 2024

Exploring the relationship between HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and the incidence of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis – findings from Denmark

A Danish study found that PrEP use was associated with a more than twofold increase in chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis diagnoses. The researchers suggest that changes in sexual risk-taking may lead people to seek PrEP rather than increased risks.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 28, 2024

Social media use may help to empower plastic surgery patients

A survey of 473 patients found that those who used social media to gather information scored higher in patient empowerment categories. Facebook and RealSelf platforms were associated with increased empowerment in treatment options. Plastic surgeons are encouraged to engage with and contribute to social media to promote patient autonomy.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMar 28, 2024

DGIST achieves simultaneous performance improvement and energy savings with innovative algorithm for 6G vision services!

The team of Professor Jeongho Kwak from DGIST developed a 'VisionScaling' algorithm that combines accuracy and efficiency for 6G vision services, reducing energy consumption by at least 30% while maintaining average accuracy. The algorithm adapts to changing mobile environments using Online Convex Optimization (OCO) techniques.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·DateMar 28, 2024

PO-AKID-teller: An interpretable machine learning tool for predicting acute kidney injury requiring dialysis after acute type A aortic dissection surgery

A new machine learning tool, PO-AKID-teller, can accurately predict patients at risk of acute kidney injury requiring dialysis after aortic dissection surgery. The model provides an interpretable explanation of the predicted risk, enabling clinicians to make informed decisions.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm – Future Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2024

Wild plants face viral surprise

A recent study published in Phytobiomes Journal found that non-native crop viruses are infecting and harming wild desert plants. Infection rates with the virus CABYV reached as high as 88% in some populations, causing visible impacts on plant growth and root health.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateMar 28, 2024

Study: Dangerous surgical site infections can be reduced with simple prevention protocol

Researchers found that a simple pre-surgical infection prevention protocol involving povidone-iodine and skin antisepsis significantly reduced severe surgical site infections. The protocol eradicated Staphylococcus aureus in nearly 40% of patients, with a three-fold risk of developing an SSI associated with its presence within a day af...

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2024

How extratropical ocean-atmosphere interactions can contribute to the variability of jet streams in the Northern Hemisphere

Researchers from Kyushu University found that ocean-atmosphere coupling enhances teleconnection patterns, leading to more meandering jet streams and extreme weather events. The study highlights the significance of extratropical ocean-atmosphere interactions in climate variability.

SourceKyushu University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 28, 2024

First performance standards published to measure the effectiveness of lifestyle medicine treatments

The American College of Lifestyle Medicine has published the first performance measures to assess the effectiveness of lifestyle medicine treatments. The standards aim to facilitate the broader integration of lifestyle medicine into healthcare by documenting remission and long-term progress. The 32 proposed performance measures cover v...

SourceAmerican College of Lifestyle Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·DateMar 28, 2024

Multiple biomaterials for immediate implant placement tissue repair: Current status and future perspectives

The study investigates various biomaterials for bone defect repair, including autologous, allogeneic, and growth factor materials. These materials offer improved biocompatibility and strength, with potential solutions for enhancing soft tissue thickness.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm – Biomaterials and Applications·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 28, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal review highlights beneficial interplay between caloric restriction, sirtuins, and cardiovascular diseases

A recent review highlights the positive effects of caloric restriction on cardiovascular health, linked to sirtuin activation and improved lipid metabolism. The study suggests that caloric restriction regulates metabolic processes via NAD+ levels, activating SIRT1 and modulating cardio-protective pathways.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 28, 2024

Dogs trained to detect trauma stress by smelling humans’ breath

Researchers teach two dogs to recognize the scent of trauma reactions on human breath, achieving 90% accuracy in discriminating between stressed and non-stressed samples. The study suggests that dogs may be able to detect stress VOCs linked to PTSD symptoms, potentially allowing them to interrupt episodes at an earlier stage.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Allergy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Unlocking how to use mRNA to target Alzheimer’s disease

Scientists at The Florey have developed an mRNA technology approach to target the toxic protein tau, which builds up in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. This new method demonstrates that mRNA can serve purposes other than vaccine development, offering a promising alternative to conventional treatments.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalBrain Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

The emergence of molecule glasses capable of unveiling the mysteries of life marks the beginning of a new era in bioscience

Dr. Lee's CNT transistor enables detailed examination of molecular interactions, capturing serotonin and dopamine movements with unprecedented sensitivity. The research paves the way for high-precision study of intermolecular interactions, potentially leading to precise medical technology capable of controlling biological systems.

To keep volunteers, connect them

A new study from the University of Texas at Austin suggests that fostering social connections among volunteers can help organizations recruit and retain scarce volunteers. Researchers analyzed data from a Chinese crowdsourcing platform and found that social connections were a powerful predictor of volunteer behavior, with findings appl...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalInformation Systems Research·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2024

Ancient isolation’s impact on modern ecology

A new study reveals how deep-seated geographic isolation drove divergent evolutionary paths among mammals, resulting in unique biodiversity patterns. The research highlights the crucial role of isolation in shaping modern ecosystems, with implications for conservation efforts and understanding the delicate balance of ecosystems.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2024

Rice research shows promise for advancing quantum networks

Rice University engineers have demonstrated a way to control the optical properties of T centers, paving the way toward leveraging these point defects for building quantum nodes. By embedding a T center in a photonic integrated circuit, they increased the collection efficiency for single photon emission by two orders of magnitude.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Individuals with multiple sclerosis face substantially greater risk of hospitalisation and death from COVID-19, despite high rates of vaccination

A UK study found that individuals with multiple sclerosis had a seven times greater risk of hospitalization and a four-fold increased risk of dying from COVID-19, even after repeated doses of vaccines. Vaccination alone may not adequately protect this vulnerable population, highlighting the need for additional preventive measures.

Revelation of the molecular code for constructing brain neural circuits with identification of the characteristics of excitatory synapses and memory cognition regulation mechanisms mediated by synaptic gene microexons

Scientists discovered the molecular code for brain neural circuits and identified characteristics of excitatory synapses that contribute to memory of new object locations. Fine-tuning of specific excitatory synapse traits may be used in developing treatments for related brain developmental disorders.

Going ‘back to the future’ to forecast the fate of a dead Florida coral reef

Researchers reconstructed a Late Holocene-aged subfossil coral death assemblage and compared it to modern reefs in Southeast Florida. The study reveals significant differences in coral composition between the two periods, suggesting that modern reefs may not be able to support range expansions of temperature-sensitive species.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2024

Promising advances in organosilica membranes for separating organic liquid mixtures

Scientists have created a novel organosilica membrane using imidazolium-type ionic liquids, achieving high selectivity and permeability in separating organic liquid mixtures. The findings suggest that this technology has the potential to replace energy-intensive distillation processes in chemical industries.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024