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Science News for March 4, 2024


Antarctica’s coasts are becoming less icy

Researchers from the University of Otago have found that areas of open water along Antarctic coasts are growing in area as the climate warms, creating opportunities for non-native plants and animals to establish themselves. This could have significant implications for native Antarctic coastal ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2024

Photosynthetic secrets come to light

Researchers at John Innes Centre used cryo-EM to visualize the structural architecture of chloroplast RNA polymerase and build a detailed atomic model. The study reveals new insights into transcription, a fundamental step in making photosynthetic proteins, and how these proteins interact with DNA and mRNA.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCell·DateMar 4, 2024

Researchers investigate immune response of a man who received 217 Covid vaccinations

Researchers at FAU investigated a man who received over 200 Covid-19 vaccinations, finding that his immune system remained fully functional and even showed higher concentrations of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. No negative effects were observed on the immune response against other pathogens.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeCase study·DateMar 4, 2024

Discovered a RNA molecule that helps prevent DNA replication errors

A long non-coding RNA called lncREST has been identified as a crucial component of the stress response during DNA replication. Its absence leads to impaired stress signalling, resulting in severe DNA defects and cell death. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing anti-tumour therapies.

SourceCentro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA) Universidad de Navarra·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateMar 4, 2024

Although trust in science remains high, public questions scientists’ adherence to science’s norms

A recent survey found that less than half of the U.S. public trusts scientists to overcome human and political biases. Despite high confidence in science overall, many question whether scientists live up to their values. The study highlights the need for trust to be earned through the scientific enterprise's efforts.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2024

An inside look at Beech tree disease

Researchers have discovered how Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) affects beech trees, revealing a novel mechanistic explanation for its decline. The disease impacts leaf development and photosynthesis, leading to reduced carbon assimilation capacity and potential tree mortality.

SourceYale University·JournalForest Pathology·DateMar 4, 2024

Less ice in the arctic ocean has complex effects on marine ecosystems and ocean productivity

A recent study by researchers at the University of Southern Denmark found that the Arctic Ocean's declining sea ice cover has complex effects on marine ecosystems and ocean productivity. Despite increased sunlight availability, primary production on the seafloor has not seen a corresponding increase, suggesting water transparency may b...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 4, 2024

WVU research shows government regulation of jobs hinders workers and consumers

West Virginia University researchers introduced a new database showing occupational licensing's impact on the workforce, highlighting how licenses increase cost and time to enter professions, affecting consumers. The database encompasses 50 jobs across all 50 states, providing insights into licensing standards, fees, and requirements.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Entrepreneurship and Public Policy·DateMar 4, 2024

JWST captures the end of planet formation

The James Webb Space Telescope has imaged dispersing gas in a young star's disk for the first time. The observations reveal winds driven by stellar photons or magnetic fields, shedding light on the end of planet formation and the evolution of circumstellar disks.

SourceSETI Institute·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateMar 4, 2024

NCI-MATCH cancer trial discovers a potentially broader role for an established dual HER2-blocking treatment

The NCI-MATCH precision medicine trial discovered that trastuzumab-pertuzumab, approved for HER2-positive breast cancer, can shrink tumors in patients with other types of cancer and high levels of the HER2 gene. The study found a 12% confirmed overall response rate, with partial responses in various cancers.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 4, 2024

Deciphering the male breast cancer genome

Researchers deciphered the male breast cancer genome, identifying gene mutations and molecular profiles that could impact diagnosis and treatment. The study found mutations in genes known to drive cancer growth and structural variants impacting other cancer-associated genes.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalModern Pathology·DateMar 4, 2024

University of Cincinnati study: Liraglutide safe, effective for weight loss in patients with stable bipolar disorder

A University of Cincinnati study found liraglutide to be efficacious and safe for weight loss in individuals with stable bipolar disorder, without destabilizing the illness. The drug reduced binge eating behavior and significantly lowered hemoglobin A1C levels.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychopharmacology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 4, 2024

Low-cost liquid tames tooth decay

A new study by NYU College of Dentistry shows that silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is an effective alternative to dental sealants for preventing cavities, especially in schools. SDF can increase access to dental care while reducing costs, and its use could keep kids from needing fillings, saving families and the healthcare system money.

SourceNew York University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 4, 2024

Robotic hip exoskeleton shows promise for helping stroke patients regain their stride

A portable robotic device has been developed to improve walking function in stroke survivors by altering gait asymmetry. The study, published in IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering, reveals that the exoskeleton can effectively train individuals to modify their walking asymmetry.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

A model for the evolution of intelligence

The McGill study found that the ability to solve foraging problems is the only predictor of innovative behavior and brain size in wild birds. The researchers studied 203 individual animals from 15 species, including 13 wild-caught individuals.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 4, 2024

Enhancing statistical reliability of weather forecasts with machine learning

Researchers have developed a non-crossing quantile regression neural network (NCQRNN) model to enhance the statistical reliability of weather forecasts. The NCQRNN model preserves the rank order of output nodes, ensuring lower quantiles stay smaller than higher ones, boosting accuracy and improving forecast interpretability.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 4, 2024

Lower risk of death, major adverse cardiovascular events in hyperthyroid patients treated with surgery than with medication

A new study from Boston University School of Medicine found that surgery significantly reduces the risk of death and major adverse cardiovascular events in hyperthyroid patients. Compared to medication, surgery resulted in a 47% lower risk of death and a 24% lower risk of major cardiovascular events.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 2024

COVID-19 associated with increased risk for autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases up to a year after infection

A large binational study found that SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with an increased risk of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) extending up to 12 months after infection. Vaccination showed some protection against AIRDs, particularly among those who were vaccinated.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMar 4, 2024

Proposals for cell donation procedures to create brain organoids

A comprehensive literature review and analysis reveal uncertainties in obtaining informed consent from cell donors due to the potential for brain organoid consciousness. Researchers propose three methods to address these concerns, emphasizing the importance of tailoring consent procedures and prioritizing ethical oversight.

SourceInstitute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University·JournalScience and Engineering Ethics·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 4, 2024

Programs intended to reduce health insurance premiums may make coverage less affordable for the middle class

A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that reinsurance programs increased minimum cost coverage for middle-class enrollees in Georgia, leading to lower enrollment rates. The programs, intended to reduce premiums, ultimately made coverage less affordable for those with incomes between 251% and 400% of federal poverty level.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 2024

Opening a window on the brain

A new method called NIRE enables large-scale and long-term observation of neuronal structures and activities in awake mice. The method uses fluoropolymer nanosheets covered with light-curable resin to create larger cranial windows, allowing for high-resolution imaging with sub-micrometer resolution.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

First step toward early diagnosis of metastasis

Researchers have developed a user-friendly method to analyze the basement membrane in human lungs, which is a crucial factor during metastatic process. The study provides valuable insights into the mechanical properties of the basement membrane and its association with metastasis formation.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Protocols·DateMar 4, 2024

Who military service members see as credible to discuss secure firearm storage for suicide prevention

A Rutgers Health study found that military service members view law enforcement officers, military service members, and veterans as the most credible sources to discuss secure firearm storage for suicide prevention. The study suggests that leveraging these sources can help increase secure storage among this population.

SourceRutgers University·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2024

Modeling the origins of life: New evidence for an “RNA World”

Researchers at Salk Institute unveil an RNA enzyme that can accurately copy functional RNA strands and allow new variants to emerge over time. This discovery brings scientists closer to producing autonomous RNA life in the laboratory, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the origins of life.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

New research shows migrating animals learn by experience

A study by researchers at the University of Wyoming and Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior found that migrating animals refine their behavior with age, suggesting experiential learning plays a crucial role in successful migration. As young birds explore new places during migration, they gradually adopt more direct routes, resultin...

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 4, 2024

University of Houston engineer Metin Akay featured in study highlighting 50 scientists' contributions to biomedical engineering advancements

A new study highlights the contributions of 50 top scientists from elite universities to transforming medicine through cutting-edge biomedical engineering advances. Five primary medical challenges are identified, including precision engineering for personalized care and tissue engineering for human health.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology·DateMar 4, 2024

Data science approach to identifying thermal conductivity-related structural factors in amorphous materials

Researchers used data science techniques to analyze the atomic structure of amorphous germanium materials, revealing that smaller atomic rings are associated with lower thermal conductivity and larger rings with higher conductivity. This discovery could lead to the development of new metastable phase-integrated thermal control materials.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

Pollution: Impact of agricultural activities on PM2.5 in Lombardy is comparable to that of urbanization, industry and transportation

Agricultural activities in Lombardy have a significant impact on PM2.5 concentration, comparable to other known sources of pollution. The study used innovative GEOAI models to analyze the relationship between land use and air pollution, providing new insights into agricultural pollutants.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

Firearm ownership is correlated with elevated lead levels in children, study finds

A new study led by Brown University researchers found an association between household firearm ownership and elevated lead levels in children's blood in 44 states. The study suggests that firearm-related lead ammunition use is a significant source of lead exposure in the US, disproportionately affecting children.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 2024

NUS researchers invent new triple-junction tandem solar cells with world-record efficiency

The National University of Singapore (NUS) team engineered a new cyanate-integrated perovskite solar cell that achieves a certified world-record power conversion efficiency of 27.1%, surpassing other multi-junction solar cells. The triple-junction perovskite/Si tandem solar cell remains stable and efficient even after extended testing.

Metal-based electrocatalysts for ammonia electro-oxidation reaction to nitrate/nitrite: past, present, and future

The article provides an overview of the research progress on metal-based electrocatalysts for ammonia electro-oxidation reaction, proposing strategies to enhance performance and inhibit side reactions. The study highlights the opportunities and challenges faced by ammonia electrocatalysis and its development trend.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateMar 4, 2024

Effects of “blue light” on human health still unclear

The ICNIRP panel states that research on SWL exposure is inconsistent, with some studies indicating possible effects on alertness or sleep and others not supporting such effects. The panel also notes that potential long-term adverse effects of SWL exposure are unclear, particularly regarding its impact on chronic diseases and conditions.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHealth Physics·DateMar 4, 2024

Communities severed by roads and traffic experience a larger number of collisions in New York City

A new study from Columbia University finds that communities severed by roads and traffic in NYC experience a larger number of collisions, including pedestrian and cyclist injuries. The Community Severance Index developed for this study can help identify areas requiring targeted interventions.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironment International·DateMar 4, 2024

Conservation value of field research stations grossly misunderstood and underfunded according to 173 conservation scientists in new study

A new study by 173 conservation scientists found that field research stations have a substantial impact on habitat quality, reducing deforestation and hunting rates. The stations also support local economies and generate significant scientific output, informing conservation policies.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalConservation Letters·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2024

Editor-in-Chief of Sustainability and Climate Change Madhavi Venkatesan named USA TODAY Woman of the Year for Massachusetts for leading plastic bottle ban efforts

Madhavi Venkatesan's leadership led to the implementation of single-use plastic bottle bans in 15 towns on Cape Cod, reducing plastic waste. Her non-profit organization, Sustainable Practices, inspires change at the state level with a commercial single-use plastic water bottle ban.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalSustainability and Climate Change·TypeNews article·DateMar 4, 2024

Tests show high-temperature superconducting magnets are ready for fusion

Researchers at MIT and Commonwealth Fusion Systems confirm their high-temperature superconducting magnet design meets the criteria for a compact fusion power plant. The successful test marks a significant milestone in fusion research, with the potential to usher in an era of virtually limitless power production.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity·DateMar 4, 2024

From Tatooine to reality

Researchers applied Bayesian network analysis to a corpus of 142 science fiction works, investigating the representation of extrasolar planets. They found that after the discovery of real exoplanets in 1995, fictional exoplanets became less Earth-like, reflecting the scientific reality of vast numbers of diverse exoplanet types.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Science Communication·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 2024

Network of quantum sensors boosts precision

Physicists have developed a method to make quantum signals accessible again by analyzing simultaneous changes in states of multiple sensors. This approach enables precise measurement of magnetic field variations and distance between sensors, outperforming entanglement-based methods.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024