Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 15, 2024


Does getting out and about in the community affect cognitive function?

A new study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that greater community mobility is significantly associated with better cognitive function in individuals aged 52 and older. The association was strongest among those at low risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 15, 2024

New study links autism spectrum disorder to disrupted developmental dopamine

Researchers discovered a link between disrupted developmental dopamine signaling and autism spectrum disorder, highlighting the importance of studying neural development pathways. The study found that dopaminergic signaling disruptions led to neural circuit abnormalities and behavioral phenotypes reminiscent of autism in zebrafish larvae.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Radiation-based immunogenic vaccine combined with a macrophage “checkpoint inhibitor” for boosting innate and adaptive immunity against metastatic colon cancers

Researchers developed a novel vaccine combining X-ray-induced dying tumor cells with UNC2250, a macrophage checkpoint inhibitor. This combination therapy promoted innate and adaptive immunity by blocking efferocytosis of macrophages and maturing dendritic cells.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateMay 15, 2024

Singing researchers find cross-cultural patterns in music and language

A study involving 75 researchers from 55 languages found consistent patterns in music and language features, such as pitch, timbre, and rhythm. The research suggests that songs may have evolved to facilitate social bonding and synchronisation, with slow, regular melodies making it easier for large groups to sing together.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

A century of statistical Ecology

A collection of landmark studies in statistical ecology has been published, featuring 36 papers that have provided ecologists with crucial analytical tools for gaining insight into the natural world. The development of novel analytical techniques has mirrorled the history of the field as a whole.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateMay 15, 2024

Access to gardens and citizen science helps encourage conservation among children, study shows

A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that access to gardens and citizen science projects can encourage pro-conservation behavior among pupils. These experiences foster a positive attitude towards environmental safeguarding and can inspire students to pursue botanical careers or spend more time gardening.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Biological Education·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 15, 2024

Combining joyful activities with ‘savoring’ therapy shows positive mental health results among young people

Researchers at SMU found that combining behavioral activation and savoring therapies significantly improved students' positive and negative moods. The study suggests that this approach can be an effective standalone strategy or complement to traditional treatment for depression.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalBehaviour Research and Therapy·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

What is the carbon footprint of a house in Japan?

Researchers at Kyushu University analyzed the carbon footprint of building a wooden house in Japan, estimating 38 tons of CO2 emissions. The team identified electric power sector and steel manufacturing process as major contributors to total emissions.

SourceKyushu University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2024

Mesenchymal stem cells alleviate acute liver failure through regulating hepatocyte apoptosis and macrophage polarization

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) have been shown to alleviate acute liver failure by inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis and regulating macrophage polarization. This study suggests that hUC-MSC-based cell therapy may serve as an alternative option for patients with liver failure.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateMay 15, 2024

Bridging the gap: From frequent molecular changes to observable phenomena

A Japanese research team has developed a framework that accurately describes how first-order reactions appear depending on the time interval used to measure the reaction. The work uses a 'shutter speed' analogy to simplify complex molecular changes, allowing for precise predictions of reaction outcomes.

SourceInstitute for Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery (ICReDD)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2024

Half-matched family donors offer best outcomes for Hispanic patients undergoing bone marrow transplants

A new study found that bone marrow transplants from half-identical relatives offer significantly better outcomes for Hispanic patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), who face challenges in finding fully matched donors. The transplants resulted in a 70% lower risk of relapse compared to those from fully matched donors.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalLeukemia Research·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

University of Oregon researchers uncover how jelly sea creatures might shape modern robotics

Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered that salps, gelatinous marine animals, use coordinated jet propulsion to swim through the ocean in giant corkscrew shapes. This unusual locomotion could inspire new designs for efficient underwater vehicles and may even enable silent and less turbulent navigation.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

1,000 times smaller than a grain of sand—glass sensors 3D-printed on optical fiber

Researchers have developed a method to 3D print silica glass micro-optics on the tips of optic fibers, creating structures 1,000 times smaller than a grain of sand. This breakthrough enables more sensitive remote sensors for environment and healthcare applications, as well as innovations in pharmaceuticals and chemicals.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

Novel technique helps predict risk of a meniscus tear in the knee

A novel technique using radiomics reveals imperceptible patterns in medical images to predict the risk of meniscus tears. The study correctly classified cases with a sensitivity of 70.6% and specificity of 95.0%, providing clinicians with a valuable tool for proactive knee health management.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateMay 15, 2024

Researchers unlock vital insights into metal-nitrogen-carbon catalysts' reaction mechanism

A team of researchers has gained new understanding of metal-nitrogen-carbon (M-N-C) catalysts, crucial for the development of low-cost and efficient hydrogen generation. By analyzing twelve distinct M-N-C configurations, they discovered that potential zero charge and solvation effects play a pivotal role in pH-dependent activities.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMay 15, 2024

A novel multifunctional catalyst turns methane into valuable hydrocarbons

A novel multifunctional catalyst has been developed to convert methane into valuable hydrocarbons, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. The catalyst's spatial distribution of Cu and acid sites determines the final products, with uniform distribution leading to stable and efficient methanol production.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Early retirement of old vehicles won't save the planet: A study

A new study published in Environmental Research: Infrastructure and Sustainability found that lifespan caps for passenger vehicles have limited effect on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The research also suggests that life span caps could amplify negative effects of EVs, including increased material use and ecotoxicity.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Infrastructure and Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2024

Robots' sense of touch could be as fast as humans

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed an artificial tactile system that can detect pressure by touch in a similar way to the human nervous system. The technology has the potential to restore lost functionality to patients after a stroke, as well as enhance interactions between humans and robots.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Scientists from IOCB Prague are expanding the possibilities of using RNA in gene medicine

Scientists from IOCB Prague have created a novel composite vector nanomaterial for transporting ribonucleic acid (RNA) into cells, ensuring its non-toxicity. This breakthrough aims to overcome the obstacle of nucleic acid vectors' toxicity and pave the way for gene therapy applications.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Pre- and post-surgical immunotherapy improves outcomes for patients with operable lung cancer

A Phase III study found that perioperative nivolumab plus chemotherapy significantly improved event-free survival in patients with resectable early-stage non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment also showed higher rates of pathological complete response and major pathological response compared to chemotherapy alone.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 15, 2024

NUS scientists discover a novel way of activating muscle cells’ natural defenses against cancer using magnetic pulses

A team of researchers from NUS has developed a novel method to stimulate muscle cells using magnetic therapy, which produces and releases proteins with anticancer properties. The study demonstrates that this non-invasive approach can prevent cancer cell growth and invasion, similar to exercise.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalCells·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Racial disparities in childhood obesity on the rise

A new study found that rates of obesity and severe obesity increased among Black, Hispanic, and foreign-born students in NYC public schools. Despite overall decline in obesity prevalence, these groups saw significant increases, with Black students experiencing a larger relative increase.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

Green concrete recycling twice the coal ash is built to last

RMIT's low-carbon concrete has been shown to recycle double the amount of coal ash compared to current standards, reducing cement requirements by half. The new mixture also performs exceptionally well over time, with large concrete beam prototypes meeting Australian Standards for engineering performance and environmental requirements.

SourceRMIT University·JournalCement and Concrete Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 15, 2024

A simple internet with significant possibilities

Researchers at Harvard University have successfully demonstrated the first metro-area quantum computer network in Boston, using existing telecommunication fiber to send hacker-proof information via photons. The breakthrough overcomes signal loss issues, enabling the creation of a secure quantum internet.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Unrivalled research infrastructure: Graz University of Technology opens human-centered computing labs

The new Human-Centered Computing Labs at TU Graz offer a unique research infrastructure for interdisciplinary collaboration. The labs are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including virtual reality and motion capturing capabilities, to facilitate research on human-computer interaction, visual computing, and autonomous driving.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeNews article·DateMay 15, 2024

Link between COVID-19 vaccine complication and rare ‘common cold’ blood disease

Researchers from Flinders University and international experts have found a link between COVID-19 vaccine complications and a rare blood disease related to adenovirus infections. The study identified identical molecular fingerprints in both vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT) and classic adenoviral vectored VITT.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

Researchers conduct first-ever study to characterize microbiota in saliva of weaned piglets on commercial farms in Brazil

Researchers characterized the microbial composition of oral fluid, feces, and environment of nursery piglets on commercial farms in Brazil. The study found distinct oral fluid bacterial profiles differing from those in feces and environment, with potential implications for swine health and production.

6-month-old infants who struggle to understand and predict sequences are more likely to have social communication difficulties aged 2-3, highlighting visual statistical learning as a potential predictor of autistic-related traits

Research suggests that preverbal infants who struggle with sequence understanding are more likely to experience social communication difficulties later in childhood. Visual statistical learning is identified as a key predictor of autistic-related traits and behaviors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2024

Lithuanian researchers’ new development in solar cell technology – a promise of a significant advancement in the field

Researchers from Kaunas University of Technology have developed a new technology for perovskite solar cells using self-assembling monolayers. This innovation increases the efficiency of solar cells by allowing only one type of charge to pass through, similar to an automatic gate on the subway.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Researchers identify new marker for breast cancer prognosis

Researchers found elevated expression of RPGRIP1L in invasive breast cancer specimens, correlating with shorter survival times and unfavorable clinicopathological features. The study identified 50 genes and 15 proteins related to RPGRIP1L expression, including those involved in immune response and metabolism.

SourceWiley·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMay 15, 2024

Study finds link between BMI trajectories and fracture risk in late adulthood

A recent study found a significant association between body mass index (BMI) trajectories in middle adulthood and the risk of bone fractures in late adulthood. Maintaining a stable BMI throughout adulthood may reduce fracture risk later in life, according to researchers.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalOsteoporosis International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2024

Unveiling the impact of job loss on the health of immigrants

A recent study by Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research found that job loss has a more severe impact on the health of immigrants compared to German-born individuals. Immigrants experience a decline in health that worsens with age, especially after experiencing detrimental life events like divorce and unemployment.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Demographic Research·JournalDemography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2024

Eurasian jays can use “mental time travel” like humans

A study published in PLOS ONE found that Eurasian jays can recall visual characteristics of cups with unique features after a 10-minute delay, demonstrating episodic-like memory. This ability may aid the birds in finding food stores and could be explored further.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

Identification of key of transposable elements associated with myocarditis based on RNA and single-cell sequencing data mining

A study utilizing RNA-Seq and single-cell RNA-Seq data identified key transposable elements (TEs) linked to myocarditis. These findings reveal a significant role for TEs in modulating immune responses, providing new insights into cardiomyopathy's pathogenesis.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalReproduction and Breeding·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2024

Businesses unintentionally discourage diverse ideas

An analysis of 1.44 million ideas from over 100 organizations revealed that businesses tend to favor similar ideas, reducing diversity in proposals submitted. However, limiting interactions among external contributors and reducing the visibility of selected ideas can help managers tap into diverse perspectives.

SourceESMT Berlin·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMay 15, 2024

Penalties for dropping out of ecosystem services incentive programs should equal lost environmental benefits

A recent study by University of Maryland economists suggests that the current payment structures in Ecosystem Services Incentive Programs limit participation and create incentives to leave early. The new design uncouples penalties from payments, resulting in increased program completion rates, higher payments to farm owners, and more e...

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 15, 2024

UNM researchers find microplastics in canine and human testicular tissue

A study published in Toxicological Sciences found significant concentrations of microplastics in both human and canine testicular tissue, with polyethylene and PVC being the most prevalent polymers. The research suggests a potential link between microplastic exposure and reduced sperm count, particularly in dogs.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalToxicological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

What fire ants can teach us about making better, self-healing materials

A Binghamton University professor investigates the adaptive response of fire ant rafts to mechanical load, discovering that they exhibit catch bond behavior under force, which enhances cohesion for survival. This phenomenon is being explored to develop artificial materials with autonomous self-strengthening properties.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

HPV vaccine prevents most cervical cancer cases in more deprived groups, major study shows

The HPV vaccination programme is helping to close health inequalities in cervical cancer, with most cases prevented in more deprived groups. The study found that the vaccine reduced cervical cancer incidence rates by nearly 90% and pre-cancerous conditions by around 95% in women who received routine vaccination at 12-13 years old.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBMJ·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

Patients report significant symptom reduction within a single integrative medicine encounter

A new study by University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center found that patients seeking outpatient integrative health and medicine (IHM) care experience clinically meaningful reductions in symptoms of pain, anxiety, and stress after just one treatment. For all IHM modalities, patients with moderate-to-severe symptoms reported clinical...

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalGlobal Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health·DateMay 15, 2024

Blood pressure drugs more than double bone-fracture risk in nursing home patients

A study of nearly 30,000 nursing home residents found that blood pressure medications increase the risk of life-threatening bone fractures, particularly in patients with dementia and low baseline balance. The medication's tendency to impair balance, especially when patients first stand up, contributes to this increased risk.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2024

Bluetooth tracking devices provide new look into care home quality

A new study using wearable Bluetooth devices found that staff members dominated social interactions in four UK care homes, with residents having limited social contact. The findings suggest that wearable technology can be used to improve quality of care by reducing isolation and increasing interaction between staff and residents.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

How does exercise benefit the brain?

New research reveals exercise reverts aged microglia gene expression patterns to those of young microglia, supporting the formation of new neurons in the hippocampus. Exercise also reduces T cell accumulation in the brain, a common feature of aging.

SourceWiley·JournalAging Cell·DateMay 15, 2024

Using solar energy to generate heat at high temperatures

Researchers at ETH Zurich have engineered a thermal trap to deliver heat at high temperatures needed for industrial processes, overcoming the challenge of fossil fuels. The device, which uses solar radiation, absorbs sunlight and converts it into heat, minimizing radiative heat losses and increasing efficiency.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Branched glycopolymer prodrug-derived nanoassembly combined with a STING agonist activates an immuno-supportive status to boost anti-PD-L1 antibody therapy

A nanosystem combining a branched glycopolymer prodrug-derived nanoassembly with a STING agonist increases matured dendritic cells and CD8+ T cells, promoting an immuno-supportive microenvironment. This enhances the therapy effect of anti-PD-L1 antibodies in breast and colon tumor mice.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateMay 15, 2024

Dartmouth-led study provides new insights into phage therapy design

A new Dartmouth-led study has provided new insights into the therapeutic potential of bacteriophage therapy for treating diseases like cystic fibrosis. Researchers found that respiratory epithelial cells sense and respond to therapeutic phages, and interactions between phages and epithelial cells are heterogenous in nature.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Treatment-resistant depression linked to body mass index: Study

A recent study has found a significant link between treatment-resistant depression and body mass index, suggesting new avenues for treatment development. The research identified genes clustered on different chromosomes that correlated with the likelihood of receiving electroconvulsive therapy, an effective treatment for severe depression.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMay 15, 2024

Cyclin D1 expression in penile cancer

Researchers found cyclin D1 expression in patients with penile cancer (PC) is associated with clinical and histopathological features. Patients with cyclin D1 expression had lower disease-free survival compared to the cyclin D1-negative group.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

Climate change likely to aggravate brain conditions

A UCL-led team of researchers warn that climate change will aggravate brain conditions such as stroke, migraine, and dementia. The study, which reviewed 332 papers, found that extreme temperatures and weather events can disrupt sleep, exacerbate cognitive impairment, and lead to increased hospital admissions and mortality.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 15, 2024

How much gossip is needed to foster social cooperation?

A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania developed a model that incorporates two forms of gossip to study indirect reciprocity. They found that there is a mathematical relationship between these forms of gossip, allowing them to understand how much gossip is required to foster cooperation and how incorrect information ...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 15, 2024

Gene expression analysis reveals clinically significant genes associated with familial hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis

The study identifies key genes differentially expressed in individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and their association with atherosclerosis. These findings provide insights into the development of cardiovascular diseases and suggest potential therapeutic targets for alleviating their impact.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalGene Expression·DateMay 15, 2024

5S-Heudelotinone alleviates experimental colitis by shaping the immune system and enhancing the intestinal barrier in a gut microbiota-dependent manner

The study reveals that 5S-Heudelotinone regulates the immune system by reducing pro-inflammatory immune cell numbers, maintaining intestinal mucosal integrity by modulating tight junctions. It also increases short-chain fatty acids and alters gut microbiota diversity, highlighting its potential as a novel treatment for IBD and CAC.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateMay 15, 2024

An online meeting with your dog?

Researchers trained two dogs to imitate human actions using the Do as I Do training method, with successful replication from frontal and side angles. However, dogs struggled to imitate actions from overhead perspectives. This study expands knowledge on dog perception and interpretation of human actions.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalBiologia Futura·DateMay 15, 2024

BU researchers identify drug compounds to combat neurodegenerative diseases

Boston University researchers have identified 10 drug compounds that can reduce PrP Sc levels in infected cells and prevent toxicity, five of which are already used in humans. The study has significant public health implications for prion disease treatment, particularly considering the absence of effective treatments.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024