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Science News for March 7, 2024


New method to predict medical risks decades ahead

Researchers at the Complexity Science Hub identified key points where disease trajectories diverge, providing clues for early and personalized prevention strategies. The study analyzed hospital stays in Austria between 2003 and 2014 and found correlations between different diseases among different age groups.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2024

Youth enrichment activities could harm mental health

A new study from the University of Georgia reveals that high schoolers who spend more time on enrichment activities, such as tutoring and sports, experience negative effects on their mental health. The study found that adding more enrichment activities is unlikely to benefit students academically.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEconomics of Education Review·DateMar 7, 2024

Optically trapped quantum droplets of light can bind together to form macroscopic complexes

Scientists from CNR Nanotec and the University of Warsaw created a new method to simulate interactions between artificial atoms by forming macroscopic coherent states. They used optically tailored quantum droplets of light that became bound together, enabling stable and long-lived polariton fluids with unprecedented coherence scales.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 7, 2024

Novel method improves fourier transform infrared spectroscopy detection of ultra-low concentration trace substances

Researchers developed a spectral resolution enhancement method based on linear prediction theory to expand FTIR technology's application in detecting multi-component ultra-low concentration trace substances. The method effectively enhanced spectral resolution, achieving a relative error of 0.28% in spectral feature absorption bands.

New habitats affect plant defense

Research found that introduced ribwort plantain populations have higher concentrations of chemical defense compounds than native populations, despite showing slightly greater feeding damage. Climatic conditions also play a role in the accumulation of volatile compounds and the plants' ability to cope with environmental stresses.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalFunctional Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2024

Prepare workers to weather time shocks

The study identifies three patterns of resilience: adjusting, absorbing, and adopting, each with strengths and weaknesses. Strategies include flexible deadlines, margins, bite-sized shifts, patience, and recognizing time as a fundamental element for dealing with environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAcademy of Management Review·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 7, 2024

Drawings of mathematical problems predict their resolution

Researchers found that mental representations, as seen in children's and adults' drawings, influence calculation strategies for solving simple arithmetic problems. The study reveals that certain drawing typologies are associated with effective calculation strategies, regardless of age or experience. This discovery opens up new perspect...

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalMemory & Cognition·TypeNews article·DateMar 7, 2024

CHOP researchers find pre-existing mental health diagnoses may prolong time to recovery from concussion

Researchers found that pre-existing mental health diagnoses lead to a greater emotional burden and prolonged recovery time after a concussion. The study also discovered a 'dose-response' effect, where more mental health diagnoses correlate with increased emotional symptoms and longer recovery periods. Boys with prolonged recovery exper...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalSports Health A Multidisciplinary Approach·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2024

Scientists unveil the role of neighboring adsorbates and quantum tunneling in the surface diffusion of hydrogen atoms

Researchers investigate the role of neighboring adsorbates and quantum tunneling in hydrogen diffusion on graphene surfaces. Quantum tunneling plays a key role in diffusion at room temperature and below, with contributions still present at higher temperatures.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateMar 7, 2024

New treatment could transform the mental health of children with epilepsy

A new treatment has been shown to reduce mental health difficulties in children with epilepsy compared to standard care. The Mental Health Intervention for Children with Epilepsy (MICE) treatment uses a modular approach to treat multiple conditions simultaneously, reducing the likelihood of psychiatric disorders by 40%.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 7, 2024

Pinging pipes could help to identify lead water lines without excavation

A recent study by Drexel University shows that sound waves can reveal the composition of buried water lines, allowing for the speedy removal of lead service lines. The technique uses ultrasonic stress wave propagation to detect unique acoustic signatures for each type of pipe, making it a promising alternative to invasive testing methods.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Nondestructive Evaluation·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2024

Mapping chemical footprints in European streams

A study analyzing 610 chemicals found in European watercourses detected 504 substances, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and PFAS, with 74% of samples exceeding scientific limit values. The chemical footprint concept quantifies the impact of mixtures on aquatic organisms, highlighting the need for further monitoring and evaluation.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEnvironment International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2024

NYBG scientist and colleagues discover seven new plant species in the highly threatened cloud forests of the Andes mountains in Peru

Researchers describe seven rare plant species with brightly colored flowers found only in highly threatened Andes Mountains forest ecosystems. The discovery highlights the urgency of protecting these high-altitude cloud forests, which are under threat from agriculture and livestock encroachment.

SourceThe New York Botanical Garden·JournalPhytotaxa·TypeObservational study·DateMar 7, 2024

Two-dimensional bimetallic selenium-containing metal-organic frameworks and their calcinated derivatives as electrocatalysts for overall water splitting

Researchers created high-efficiency Se-containing electrocatalysts for overall water splitting using 2D layered metal-organic frameworks. The unique structure and synergistic effect between components significantly improve the electrochemical performance.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers in Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2024

Atmospheric carbon dioxide drawdown from rock weathering processes has its limits

A new study found that atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) drawdown from chemical weathering of rocks is limited to a narrow range of moderate erosion rates. This has significant implications for understanding the constraints of weathering-mediated CO2 drawdown and resolving conflicting data on its impact on the climate.

Active copper structures in ZnO-Cu interfacial catalysis: CO2 hydrogenation to methanol and reverse water-gas shift reactions

Researchers have discovered the most active Cu facet for ZnO-Cu interfacial catalysis, leading to improved efficiency in CO2 hydrogenation to methanol and reverse water-gas shift reactions. The study suggests that engineering Cu nanoparticles with minimized exposed bare Cu surfaces can lead to highly active and selective catalysts.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateMar 7, 2024

What makes a pathogen antibiotic-resistant?

A new study published in npj Antimicrobials and Resistance found that pathogenic bacteria E. coli and A. baumannii employ shared and unique mechanisms to acquire resistance to antibiotics ciprofloxacin and GP6. The researchers developed a method to track the acquisition of drug resistance using whole genome sequencing, which revealed t...

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·Journalnpj Antimicrobials and Resistance·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2024

The health impacts of migrating by sea

A new study reveals that migrant drowning deaths in the Pacific Ocean rose 3200% after the border wall height was increased from 17 feet to 30 feet. The study analyzed data from the Missing Migrants Project and found a significant increase in drownings along the San Diego coast, with relatively stable rates in other areas.

What drives students to take up teaching? New study explores aspirations and challenges faced by prospective teachers in Japan

A new study in Japan explores the motivations of undergraduate students pursuing a teaching career, finding that positive school experiences and intrinsic value are major drivers. The research also highlights the challenges faced by aspiring teachers, including demanding skills and social pressures.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalInternational Journal of Educational Research Open·TypeSurvey·DateMar 7, 2024

Open creativity: Increased creativity due to network relationships

This study shows that network relationships in coworking environments increase creativity through weak ties and infrequent connections with individuals from different backgrounds. The findings suggest that collaborative spaces can expand individuals' creativity by facilitating the exchange of experiences and visions.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalInternational Journal of Innovation and Technology Management·DateMar 7, 2024

How a common food ingredient can take a wrong turn, leading to arthritis

Researchers have identified how bacteria in the digestive system break down tryptophan into an inflammatory chemical that primes the immune system towards arthritis. A Mediterranean diet rich in plant-based fibers and lean meats may tip the balance towards anti-inflammatory pathways, while a Western diet may exacerbate inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2024

Carnegie Mellon researchers develop new machine learning method for modeling of chemical reactions

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created a new machine learning model that can simulate reactive processes in diverse organic materials and conditions. The model, called ANI-1xnr, performs simulations with significantly less computing power and time than traditional quantum mechanics models.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 7, 2024

University of Cincinnati study: Comparing pregnancy rates in patients undergoing two types of dialysis

A new University of Cincinnati study compares pregnancy rates in patients on two types of dialysis, finding a higher rate with home hemodialysis. The study found an overall pregnancy rate of almost 9 people per thousand, with black women and younger age associated with a higher likelihood of pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalKidney International Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2024

An increase in the number of extreme cold days in North China during 2003–2012

A recent study found an increase in the number of extreme cold days in North China during 2003-2012, with a peak in 2003. The research suggests that natural decadal variability played a significant role in this trend, while human-induced climate change also contributed to regional extreme events.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMar 7, 2024

Exploring the effectiveness of a novel pain management device for endometriosis pain

Researchers investigate the effectiveness and safety of the Angel Touch device (AT-04) in managing endometriosis-related pain. The study, led by Associate Professor Hiroshi Ishikawa at Chiba University, aims to assess the device's ability to alleviate pain and improve quality of life for women with the condition.

SourceChiba University·JournalReproductive Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 7, 2024

Concentration-independent pressure sensing method developed for high-temperature combustion diagnostics

Researchers developed a concentration-independent pressure sensing method using two-color laser absorption spectroscopy for high temperature environments. The new method eliminates the effect of molecular concentration on gas pressure measurements, enabling accurate pressure measurement at temperatures up to 1300 K.

Loss of nature costs more than previously estimated

Researchers propose a new method for calculating biodiversity conservation costs, which considers the increase in monetary value of nature over time. This approach aims to make biodiversity loss and nature conservation more visible in political decision-making, potentially increasing the likelihood of projects passing a cost-benefit test.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2024

Glovebox-assisted magnetic force microscope offers easier image of air-sensitive samples

Researchers created a compact MFM system that can image air-sensitive materials without surface protection coatings, addressing a major challenge in magnetic materials research. The system provides a controlled environment for precision and reliability, revealing intrinsic magnetic structures.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMar 7, 2024

Wafer-scale patterning of gold nanoparticle arrays enables enhanced biosensing

Researchers developed a self-confined solid-state dewetting mechanism to efficiently pattern non-closely packed gold nanoparticle arrays, enabling two-orders-of-magnitude increase in sensitivity for plasmonic sensing of molecular interactions. This breakthrough paves the way for portable devices with sensitive biosensing capabilities.

The new system allows to look at phenomena that occur in special “topological” materials by video recording the motion of pendula

The study reveals insights into topological materials by visualizing the motion of coupled pendula, reproducing behaviors of electrons in periodic systems. The researchers directly measure Bloch oscillations and Zener tunneling phenomena, previously impossible to observe in quantum systems.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 2024

Paper coating biomaterials derived from anaerobic granular sludge may be cost-effective

Researchers have developed a cost-effective method to create waterproof and grease-resistant paper coatings using extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) from anaerobic granular sludge. The study found that EPS derived from waste sludge can improve paper coating properties, including water/grease-proofing behaviour.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2024

Disorders of consciousness: Increasing awareness of advances in brain injury medicine

The themed issue highlights advances in nosology, covert consciousness assessment, neuromedical morbidity, neurorehabilitation evaluation, and medicolegal challenges. Patients with severe brain injuries may have better prognoses than previously believed, but require careful assessment due to high misdiagnosis rates.

SourceIOS Press·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 7, 2024

Multi-scale feature modulation network introduced for advancing underwater image enhancement

Researchers introduced a new network to enhance underwater images while considering memory and computational power limitations. The Multi-scale Feature Modulation Network (MFMN) achieves better performance with reduced parameters and computational costs.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of King Saud University - Computer and Information Sciences·DateMar 7, 2024

Reptile roadkill reveals new threat to endangered lizard species

Researchers at Curtin University have discovered a new potential predator for the endangered western spiny-tailed skink, raising concerns about the susceptibility of similar-sized juvenile lizards. The spotted mulga snake's consumption of a pygmy spiny-tailed skink suggests that these snakes may also prey on vulnerable juveniles.

SourceCurtin University·JournalAustralian Zoologist·TypeCase study·DateMar 7, 2024

STI cases on the rise across Europe

European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reports significant increase in STI cases across Europe, with gonorrhoea cases rising by 48%, syphilis cases by 34%, and chlamydia cases by 16%. The surge highlights the need for enhanced prevention, access to testing, and effective treatment to address this public health challenge.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2024

Study elucidates the regulation mechanism for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction

Researchers developed bimetallic copper-nickel phosphide electrocatalysts that exhibit rich heterointerfaces, boosting electron transfer and improving NO3 RR efficiency. The study reveals a successive hydrodeoxygenation pathway and contributes to understanding the electrocatalytic process for sustainable ammonia synthesis.

Too few caregivers and too many patients – a bad combination for elderly in rural areas

Research shows elderly patients in rural areas have higher mortality rates when discharged under pressure, particularly in municipalities with fewer than 10,000 inhabitants. The study highlights the need for better municipal services and care facilities to address the aging crisis in Norway.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNordic Journal of Health Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2024

Eight new deep-sea species of marine sponges discovered

Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered eight new deep-sea species of marine sponges in the Balearic Islands, increasing the ecological importance of the region. The study reveals a strong case for the inclusion of underwater mountains and caves within the Natura 2000 Network, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateMar 7, 2024