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Science News for May 7, 2024


Wildfire risk management in the era of climate change

Recent deadly wildfires in Greece and Hawaii highlighted the need for improved wildfire risk management. The authors propose a long-term strategy integrating forest land management with fire prevention and mitigation measures, including retrofitting buildings and limiting development in the wildland-urban interface.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 7, 2024

Two new studies led by Lewis Katz School of Medicine’s Dr. Jessica Beard more closely examine how reports of community firearm violence are framed on local television news in Philadelphia

New studies published in Preventive Medicine Reports and BMC Public Health found that segments about community firearm violence on local television news are often demographically and geographically unrepresentative. They also frequently contain harmful elements, such as blame of victims or reinforcement of racist stereotypes, which can...

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·DateMay 7, 2024

GIST researchers develop nanotechnology for creating wafer-scale nanoparticle monolayers in seconds

Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology develop a new nanotechnology method that enables the creation of uniform, wafer-scale nanoparticle assemblies in just seconds. The 'mussel-inspired' technique accelerates assembly by introducing excess protons to increase electrostatic attraction.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

60% of women with disabilities view cannabis as a ‘harmless’ drug

A study published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research found that approximately 60% of women with disabilities perceive no risk associated with weekly cannabis use. Women with disabilities are more likely to view cannabis as harmless than those without disabilities, highlighting the need for effective screening and dissuasion strategies.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalCannabis and Cannabinoid Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 7, 2024

USF research: Stars outweigh numbers in online review ratings battle

A study by the University of South Florida found that consumers perceive a 3.5-rated product as higher and better when the score is illustrated in shapes like stars, circles, and bars, versus numbers. This phenomenon, known as left-digit anchoring, affects consumer behavior in online marketplaces. Researchers recommend using visual rat...

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Aquatic weed among ‘world’s worst’ expands in Northeastern US

A new subspecies of northern hydrilla has been discovered outside the Connecticut River, spreading rapidly across five additional waterbodies in Connecticut and one in Massachusetts. The invasive aquatic weed hinders recreational activities, forms dense canopies, and has the potential to displace native species.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Educational research should pinpoint anti-Black aggressions to build better policy, scholar writes

A University of Kansas scholar proposes examining anti-Black aggressions in educational research to better understand the unique experiences of Black students. This approach would allow researchers to honor the original spirit of microaggression theory and ask direct questions about the Black experience in American education.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 7, 2024

US geographic region results in vastly different anal cancer risk for people with HIV

A new study reveals significant disparities in anal cancer risk among people with HIV across different US regions. The relative risk varies significantly depending on the region, with higher risks in the Midwest and South compared to the West and Northeast. Screening rates also differ between regions, with New York state leading the way.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 7, 2024

A multi-stream network for retrosynthesis prediction

A new research proposes a multi-stream network for retrosynthesis prediction, utilizing SMILES and ECFPs descriptors to produce deep features. The model combines these features with varying weights to arrive at a final prediction, leveraging diverse information from each type of feature.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

First effective treatment found for spitting cobra snakebite

Scientists have found an effective treatment for spitting cobra snakebites by blocking one of the major dermonecrosis-causing toxins with varespladib. The study suggests that this repurposed drug can prevent tissue damage and may become a valuable treatment against black-necked and red spitting cobra venoms.

SourceLancaster University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Few tenure-track jobs for engineering PhDs

Engineering PhD graduates have a low chance of securing a tenure-track faculty position, with an average annual likelihood of 12.4%. Alternative career tracks in government and industry are recommended to match student expectations with the realities of the job market.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 7, 2024

CU Department of Medicine doctor discusses unintended consequences of patients having immediate access to test results

Immediate electronic release of patient results can lead to misinterpretation and negative outcomes, as seen in CU doctor Benjamin Vipler's experience with his mom. The 21st Century Cures Act aims to empower patients with their health information but requires further study on its impact.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 7, 2024

HKU geologists reveal mysterious and diverse volcanism in Lunar Apollo Basin, Chang'e-6 Landing Site

Scientists at HKU have studied the volcanism of the Apollo basin and its surroundings, revealing diverse and complex volcanic activities. The study suggests that crustal thickness may be the primary cause of lunar asymmetrical volcanism, which can be tested by returned Chang'e-6 samples.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalEarth and Planetary Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

New genetic mutation identified for congenital thyroid condition

A team of researchers from the University of Chicago has identified a genetic mutation in a non-coding region of DNA that alters thyroid hormone regulation, leading to a rare form of congenital thyroid abnormality. This discovery sheds light on a previously unexplained phenomenon and may lead to new treatments for individuals with this...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

New super-pure silicon chip opens path to powerful quantum computers

Researchers at the University of Melbourne and Manchester have invented a breakthrough technique for manufacturing highly purified silicon, making it ideal for creating powerful quantum computers. The new technique uses qubits of phosphorous atoms implanted into crystals of pure stable silicon, extending the duration of notoriously fra...

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Research shows altered regulation of genes linked to prostate cancer among firefighters

A new study found that experienced firefighters have different epigenetic modifications linked to prostate cancer risk compared to new firefighters. Chemical exposure to PFAS is associated with these changes. The research team investigated fire department data and found a link between PFAS exposure and increased prostate cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalEnvironmental and Molecular Mutagenesis·DateMay 7, 2024

Studying the intricacies of homologous recombination and abnormal chromosome bridges

A recent study investigated the relationship between RAD51 and FIGNL1, shedding light on the intricacies of homologous recombination. The results reveal that FIGNL1 is essential for proper chromosome separation after replication forks are dismantled, preventing abnormal chromosome bridges that can lead to genetic instability.

SourceKindai University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

New PET agent provides exceptional same-day imaging for clear cell renal cell carcinoma patients

A novel investigational PET imaging agent, <sup> 68 </sup> Ga-DPI-4452 (Debio 0328), has been shown to provide rapid and accurate visualization of lesions in clear cell renal cell cancer patients. The agent offers a superior alternative to standard CT imaging and could potentially be used as part of a theranostic pair.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMay 7, 2024

Telehealth program created to improve access to specialty care found to reduce reliance on opioids in pain management

A telehealth program created by Project ECHO has been found to reduce reliance on opioids in pain management. The program connects primary care providers with experts via videoconferencing, leading to lower rates of opioid prescribing and greater adherence to evidence-based recommendations.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Opioid Management·DateMay 7, 2024

Millions in costs due to discharge of scrubber water into the Baltic Sea

A new study by Chalmers University of Technology finds that ship scrubber water discharges caused EUR 680 million in pollution costs between 2014 and 2022. The researchers also found that most shipping companies have already recouped their investments in scrubbers, making cheap heavy fuel oil a more lucrative option.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 7, 2024

Small pump for kids awaiting heart transplant shows promise in Stanford Medicine-led trial

A new implantable cardiac pump could revolutionize heart transplant care for children, allowing them to wait at home instead of in the hospital. The device performed well in a feasibility trial, with six out of seven children ultimately undergoing transplants and one child's heart recovering on its own.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Five-year treatment with tenofovir alafenamide achieves high rates of viral suppression, alanine aminotransferase normalization, and favorable bone and renal safety in Chinese chronic hepatitis B patients

The 5-year TAF treatment efficacy was high and similar to that of 3-year TDF followed by 2-year TAF in Chinese chronic hepatitis B patients. Favorable effects on bone and renal parameters were sustained with TAF treatment alone and were observed following the switch from TDF to TAF.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateMay 7, 2024

Hidden citations in physics

A study by Albert-László Barabási and colleagues used machine learning to identify phrases representing allusions to foundational papers in the physics literature. The findings suggest that hidden citations obscure true impact in science, with influential ideas becoming so familiar that researchers stop citing their sources.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 7, 2024

Researchers reveal water-assisted oxidative redispersion of metal nanoparticles

Scientists discovered that Cu nanoparticles supported on γ-Al2O3 surfaces can redisperse spontaneously at room temperature due to hydroxylation and formation of Cu-OH species. The O2 and H2O led to the transformation of Cu atoms into single atoms, enhancing catalytic activity in RWGS and CO-PROX reactions.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 7, 2024

New study finds increase in exposures to synthetic tetrahydrocannabinols among young children, teens, and adults

A new study conducted by researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital found increases in exposures to delta-8 THC, delta-10 THC, and THC-O acetate among young children, teens, and adults. The study highlights the importance of safe storage practices and improved regulation of these products.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalClinical Toxicology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 7, 2024

Why is breaking down plant material for biofuels so slow?

The study reveals that cellobiose fragments can bind to the tunnel's back door and block subsequent cellulose molecules, as well as bind to Cel7A near the front door, preventing enzyme binding. New methods could be developed to fine-tune this process, improving biofuel production efficiency.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 7, 2024

Chimps learn and improve tool-using skills even as adults

A study found that adult chimpanzees continue to learn and refine their tool-using skills well into adulthood, suggesting a prolonged learning capacity is key to the evolution of complex tool use in chimps and humans. Chimpanzees developed motor skills for handling sticks by age six, but continued to hone techniques until age 15.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2024

Road of recovery in gastrointestinal surgery: From ERAS to FRAS

Researchers have proposed a new concept called fastest recovery after surgery (FRAS) to expedite recovery in patients undergoing elective major gastrointestinal surgery. The approach has shown zero complications, reduced hospital stay duration, and improved comfort and satisfaction compared to traditional ERAS protocols.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGastroenterology & Endoscopy·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2024

Computing takes the guesswork out of chemistry

A team of researchers from Osaka University used machine learning to identify a highly effective boron-based catalyst for chemical transformations of amino acids and peptides. The new catalyst generates only water as a coproduct and promotes high-yield reactions with minimal environmental impact. By leveraging computational methods, th...

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Dogma-challenging telomere findings may offer new insights for cancer treatments

A new study found that PARP1 is involved in the repair of telomeres, which can lead to genomic instability and cancer. Impairing this process can lead to telomere shortening and increased risk of cancer. The findings challenge existing dogma and open up new possibilities for improving cancer therapies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Mobile teams bring COVID-19 vaccines to rural villages in Sierra Leone

A new research project showed that mobile vaccination teams are an effective way to increase vaccination uptake in remote areas of Sierra Leone. Immunization rates increased by up to 26% in trial villages, and the cost was about $33 per person, making it a cost-effective intervention.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 7, 2024

A smart neckband for tracking dietary intake

A smart neckband can differentiate between eating, drinking, and similar movements using machine-learning algorithms and sensors. The device achieved an accuracy rate of 89% for concurrent activities in a study involving six volunteers.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 7, 2024

Grandmothers could be the answer to adolescent angst

New research found that maternal grandmothers' investment in grandchildren who experienced adverse early life experiences can significantly reduce emotional and behavioral problems. The study suggests that supportive caregiving from grandparents can protect children from negative effects of early adversity-induced behavioral issues.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 7, 2024

New physicians’ exam scores tied to patient survival

A study published in JAMA found that newly trained internal medicine physicians with top scores on the board certification exam had lower risk of dying within seven days or being readmitted to hospital. The analysis used nearly 7,000 patients and showed a significant link between exam scores and patient outcomes.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2024

Solid-state reaction among multiphase multicomponent ceramic enhances ablation performance

Researchers found a new solid-state reaction process between different multicomponent phases during ablation, leading to improved thermodynamic stability and enhanced ablation performance. The composition evolution allowed the underlying phases to remain stable under higher oxygen partial pressures.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Quantum breakthrough: World’s purest silicon brings scientists one step closer to scaling up quantum computers

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed an ultra-pure form of silicon that can be used to construct high-performance qubit devices, a crucial component for scalable quantum computers. The breakthrough could enable the creation of one million qubits, which may be fabricated into pinhead-sized devices.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCommunications Materials·DateMay 7, 2024

Roman lead was Cordovan

The study of three Roman-era lead ingots from Los Escoriales de Doña Rama reveals the importance of lead production and exportation in ancient Cordoba, a major center for smelting lead during the Roman period. The ingots, dated to the first century A.D., demonstrate the region's significant role in Mediterranean trade.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Roman Archaeology·DateMay 7, 2024

Decoding the three ancestral components of the Japanese people

The research group found that the Japanese population can be divided into three clusters, with different concentrations in Okinawa, Northeastern Japan, and Western Japan. They also identified genetic variants associated with hereditary breast cancer and provided insights into gene sequences derived from Neanderthals and Denisovans.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024