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Science News for May 21, 2024


Boys' depressive symptoms rise with pandemic; girls improved during initial school closures

A longitudinal study found that boys experienced a significant increase in depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging later in the first year and then early into the second year. In contrast, girls' symptoms decreased during the school-closure phase but returned to pre-pandemic levels after schools reopened.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMay 21, 2024

Drug-like inhibitor shows promise in preventing flu

Scientists at Scripps Research have developed a potential drug-like molecule that blocks the first stage of type A influenza infection. The inhibitors target hemagglutinin, a protein on the surface of type A influenza viruses, and have shown improved cellular antiviral potency compared to previous compounds.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 21, 2024

Body lice may be bigger plague spreaders than previously thought

A recent laboratory study found that human body lice are more efficient at transmitting Yersinia pestis, the bacterium causing plague, than previously believed. The researchers discovered a new mechanism by which lice can spread the pathogen through bites, highlighting the potential role of body lice in past plague outbreaks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

Green infrastructure plans need to consider historical racial inequalities, say researchers

Urban green infrastructure projects can bring health and climate benefits, but their distribution is unequal in urban landscapes. Researchers recommend a justice-oriented approach that considers historical development patterns and existing power structures to ensure equitable access to environmental amenities. This includes building re...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateMay 21, 2024

Researchers find unique adaptations of fungus associated with bee bread

A new study reveals that fungi associated with bee bread have unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in the acidic environment. The researchers found that one strain of Aspergillus flavus can withstand extreme pH levels and propolis, which has fungicidal properties.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Unlocking blueberry quality: the role of cuticular waxes

A comprehensive study on cuticular wax biosynthesis in blueberries identified key genes involved in the process and found that manipulating wax biosynthesis pathways can improve fruit quality traits like reduced water loss and enhanced visual appeal. The research highlights the potential of developing strategies to enhance fruit qualit...

Researchers introduce programmable materials to help heal broken bones

Engineers developed a material that mimics human bone for orthopedic femur restoration, providing optimized support and protection from external forces. This innovative approach uses machine learning, optimization, and 3D printing to create a fully controllable computational framework.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 21, 2024

Consultative support to pediatric primary care providers in providing gender-affirming care

A study found that access to consultative support increases pediatric primary care provider comfort in providing gender-affirming care. Providers with fewer than 10 years of experience and those trained in pediatrics were more likely to agree that consultative support would improve their ability to provide this care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

A new approach to fine motor skills assessment: EIT-based tactile sensor breakthrough

A groundbreaking system utilizing a flexible tactile sensor based on electrical impedance tomography (EIT) offers significant advantages in terms of flexibility and sensitivity compared to conventional methods. The system achieved high classification accuracies, with reconstructed images and measured voltage vectors.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Access·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Stress resilience is linked to increased risk of psoriasis

A large register-based study found that young adults with low stress resilience are more likely to develop psoriasis later in life. The study, based on data from over 1.6 million Swedish men, showed a significant link between stress resilience and the risk of developing severe cases of psoriasis.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

High-efficiency crystalline white organic light-emitting diodes

A team of scientists has reported a novel structure for developing high-performance crystalline white OLEDs by employing thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) material and orange phosphorescent dopants. This approach enables controlled luminescence behavior, efficient charge carrier transport channels, and reduced device cond...

Regional differences in bird diversity in agroforestry systems

A study by the University of Göttingen investigated regional differences in bird diversity within cocoa agroforestry systems in Peru. The research team found that biodiversity decreases with increasing distance from natural forests, with greater richness of species found in humid subtropical forests than in dry tropical forests.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

Study finds extreme temperature swings hit minority, low-income communities hardest

A new study found that daily temperature variation has a disproportionate impact on marginalized groups, particularly Black and brown communities, with greater swings in temperature on average. The researchers used satellite data to analyze temperature patterns across the US, finding that densely populated regions with limited green sp...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 21, 2024

Neutrons open window to explore space glass

Scientists discovered that many types of glass have similar atomic structures and can be successfully made in space. Researchers used a levitator and NOMAD neutron diffractometer at the Spallation Neutron Source to create and study glass samples, comparing their properties with those made on Earth.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·Journalnpj Microgravity·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Revving up individual’s climate action: how our plates and wheels can drive down carbon emissions

A study reveals that personal lifestyle choices, particularly regarding transportation and diet, can lower an individual's carbon footprint. By adopting more efficient transportation methods and making smarter dietary choices, individuals can achieve remarkable reductions in their carbon output.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

A diaspora-based model of human migration

A new diaspora-based model of human migration explains how migrants choose their destinations, with a focus on social connections and repeated factors. The model predicts specific migration flows, revealing surprising differences in migration patterns between cities and regions.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 21, 2024

A review of the applications of mercury stable isotopes for tracing volcanism in the geologic events

Volcanic-sourced Hg exhibits near-zero ∆ <sup> 199 </sup> Hg values, while non-volcanic origins have varying ∆ <sup> 199 </sup> Hg values driven by ocean redox changes and terrestrial runoff. The use of mercury stable isotopes improves understanding of the relationship between LIP eruptions, biotic crises, and environmental changes.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateMay 21, 2024

Detroit researchers find connection between PFAS exposure in men and the health of their offspring

A recent study by Wayne State University researchers has demonstrated a connection between exposure to per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in males and health problems in their offspring. The study found that PFAS mixtures can alter sperm methylation and affect the long-term reprogramming of offspring liver and fat tissues.

Drug helps reprogram macrophage immune cells, suppress prostate and bladder tumor growth

A novel therapy has been developed to reprogram macrophage immune cells, shifting their balance toward antitumor activity. The treatment, JHU083, blocks the use of glutamine in tumors, reducing growth and triggering cell death. It also boosts immune-activating macrophages, recruiting tumor-killing T-cells and natural killer cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateMay 21, 2024

UConn lab sequences rabies in black bear

The Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory sequenced a case of rabies from a black bear found in the state. The lab compared the genome with existing rabies sequences to identify a rare viral strain, closely resembling one from a raccoon in New England.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalMicrobiology Resource Announcements·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

AI can help improve ER admission decisions, Mount Sinai study finds

A study published by the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai found that generative AI models like GPT-4 can accurately predict hospital admissions from limited records. The research suggests that AI could support doctors in emergency rooms with quick, informed decisions about patient admissions.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 21, 2024

Addressing homelessness in older people

Older people experiencing homelessness are at risk of premature death, cognitive impairment, and mobility concerns. Addressing this issue requires collaboration between health, long-term care, public health, and housing to provide adequate shelter policies, age-friendly shelters, and supportive housing models.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 21, 2024

Few moderate or severe asthma patients prescribed recommended inhaler regimen

Only 14.5% of adult patients with moderate or severe asthma are prescribed the recommended Single Maintenance and Reliever Therapy (SMART) combination inhaler regimen. Older age and Medicare insurance are associated with not being prescribed SMART, suggesting providers may resist changing treatment regimens for these groups.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 21, 2024

Sepiolite: a new component suitable for 380 km/h high-speed rail brake pads

Researchers developed a new component, sepiolite, to improve braking effectiveness in high-speed rail brakes. Sepiolite exhibits high-temperature lubricity, weakening bonds between its layered structures, and accelerates the formation of a surface lubricating film, providing stable friction at high temperatures.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

What pottery reveals about prehistoric Central European culinary traditions

A groundbreaking study in PLOS ONE analyzed fat residues trapped in pottery vessels to uncover the prehistoric culinary traditions of central Germany. The results show a diverse range of food sources, including dairy products, meat, and plant-based foods, with significant changes occurring between the Early Neolithic and Late Bronze Age.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

CU Anschutz researchers hope to bridge gap in care and treatment for heart disease in women

Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus identified key elements to improve diagnosis and treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD) in women, addressing the common misdiagnosis of heart attacks. The new guidelines provide recommendations to help clinicians better address sex-specific symptoms and treatments.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Women s Health·DateMay 21, 2024

A rise in sea urchins and related damage to kelp forests impacts Oregon’s gray whales and their food

A recent study by Oregon State University reveals that a surge in purple sea urchins is devastating kelp forests, reducing zooplankton populations and impacting the primary prey of gray whales. This cascading effect affects the top predator, causing them to spend less time foraging in the affected area.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

How AI helps programming a quantum computer

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck developed a novel method using diffusion models to generate quantum circuits. The model can produce accurate and flexible circuits, including those tailored to specific quantum hardware connections.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 21, 2024

“Space at your fingertips” - groundbreaking research unlocks the potential of touch for 3D spatial perception

A new study developed a Touch-Motion Algorithm to explore tactile sensation with spatial components, enabling participants to localize 3D motion through fingertips. The results demonstrated accurate integration of audio and tactile information in challenging environments, opening pathways for enhancing human perception and interaction.

SourceReichman University·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Cosmic rays illuminate the past

A team led by the Institute of Archaeological Sciences at the University of Bern has precisely dated timber from the archaeological site of Dispilio in northern Greece, dating back to 5259 BC. This is made possible by using high-energy particles from space, known as Miyake events, which can be reliably dated to this period.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

Excessive patient loads were the greatest cause of moral distress among health personnel during the pandemic

A study by the University of Córdoba found that excessive patient loads were the greatest cause of moral distress among health personnel during the pandemic. Women, nurses, and those working in community services faced a higher risk of moral stress due to scarcity of resources and high levels of responsibility.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalBMC Medical Ethics·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

Exercise bouts could improve efficacy of cancer drug

A study found that moderate-to-vigorous exercise bouts increased natural killer cells' ability to kill cancer cells and made them more susceptible to antibody therapy. This could hold promise for improving treatment outcomes for some forms of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

New therapeutic avenues in bone repair

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have identified PEPITEM, a naturally occurring peptide, as a promising new therapy for osteoporosis and other bone disorders. The study found that PEPITEM enhances bone mineralisation, formation, and strength, and reverses bone loss in animal models.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

To combat loneliness, buy experiences, not things

A new study found that spending money on experiences, such as concerts, restaurants, or travel, increases feelings of social connection and similarity with others. In contrast, buying material goods has a lesser effect on these connections. The research suggests that this could lead to improved health and happiness.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Behavioral Decision Making·DateMay 21, 2024

Screen time not the main factor making parent-child interactions worse, study finds

Researchers investigated whether 'technoference' affects parent-child interactions more than non-digital distractions. They found that parents who were distracted, regardless of the device used, had lower sensitivity to children's communication signals and reduced social involvement from their children.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Tracking down toxic metals from tobacco smoke

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory identified 28 trace metals in secondhand and thirdhand tobacco smoke, including cadmium, arsenic, and chromium. The study found that the predicted indoor air concentration for these metals exceeded California's cancer risk guidelines, highlighting the need to understand their contrib...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

New research reveals that prehistoric seafloor pockmarks off the California coast are maintained by powerful sediment flows

Research reveals that powerful sediment flows, not methane gas eruptions, maintain prehistoric seafloor pockmarks off the California coast. Sediment gravity flows have caused erosion in the center of each pockmark, maintaining these unique underwater morphologic features over time.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Earth Surface·DateMay 21, 2024

Improving the effectiveness of earthquake early warning systems

Researchers suggest three measures to improve EEW alerts: conducting nationwide drills, maintaining safe environments, and adding clear instructions to encourage immediate action. Studies found that people often wait for tremors to begin instead of taking protective measures, highlighting the need for more effective warning systems.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

U of M research team demonstrates cortex's self-organizing abilities in neural development

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have found that the cortex can transform unorganized inputs into highly organized patterns of activity, demonstrating self-organization. This process occurs entirely within the cortex itself, indicating that the brain is able to organize its own function during development.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Hope for a cure for visceral leishmaniasis, an often fatal infectious disease

A study led by INRS research team may lead to a new therapeutic approach for the most serious form of leishmaniasis. Researchers discovered a unique CD4 T cell population that increases in number during the chronic phase and has properties similar to progenitor cells, allowing it to regenerate or differentiate into effector cells.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Brigham study finds eliminating race-based metrics improves prediction for COPD outcomes

A new study found that using race-neutral equations for lung function test interpretation accurately predicted risk of death and COPD flare-ups, especially for African Americans. The study suggests reclassifications can allow those most in need to gain eligibility for specialized treatments like lung transplant.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

Studies reveal cell-by-cell changes caused when pig hearts and kidneys are transplanted into humans

Researchers analyzed cell changes before, during, and after xenotransplantation surgeries using single-cell RNA sequencing. The study found evidence of subtle immune reactions that could cause xenotransplants to fail over time, including antibody-mediated rejection and tissue repair mechanisms.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalMed·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Climbing the social ladder slows dementia, Japanese study reveals

A new study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that upward social mobility significantly lowers the risk of dementia. The research, led by Osaka University researchers, analyzed data from 9,186 participants aged 65 and over, finding that individuals who experienced upward transitions had a notably lower risk of dementia incidence c...

SourceOsaka University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024

Ruptured Achilles tendon shows faster repair amid plasma irradiation treatment

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered that plasma irradiation can accelerate tendon repair, showing faster regeneration and increased strength in lab rats. This breakthrough could lead to shorter treatment times and more reliable tendon healing for athletes and individuals with sports-related injuries.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024