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Science News for May 8, 2024


Ozone's influence on exoplanetary climate -- New study

A new study led by Dr. Assaf Hochman uncovers ozone's impact on atmospheric stability and temperature distribution on Proxima Centauri b, a habitable exoplanet tantalizingly close to Earth's solar system. The research highlights the importance of considering interactive ozone in understanding Earth-like exoplanets.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2024

Where wildlife is welcome

A recent study by TUM, University of Jena, and Vienna University of Technology shows that city residents generally accept most animal species in urban environments. The majority of birds, mammals, arthropods, lizards, and frogs are popular, while cockroaches, rats, wasps, slugs, and pigeons are less liked. Urban planning can balance hu...

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Urban Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

Low-loss and polarization insensitive 32 x 4 optical switch for ROADM applications

A new paper demonstrates a low-loss and polarization-independent integrated optical colorless ROADM with a 32 x 4 optical switch. The device boasts below 2 dB fiber-to-fiber loss at 1550 nm, making it suitable for applications such as optical neural networks and integrated quantum photonics.

Rock steady: Study reveals new mechanism to explain how continents stabilized

A new study proposes that ancient cratons played a key role in stabilizing Earth's continents 3 billion years ago. The researchers suggest that the exposure of fresh rock to wind and rain triggered geological processes that ultimately stabilized the crust. This mechanism may represent a new understanding of how habitable planets evolve.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2024

Keto diet boosts lifesaving antifungal drug in mice

A study by Duke University researchers found that combining a low-carb, high-fat keto diet with fluconazole significantly improved treatment outcomes against fungal meningitis. The keto diet increased the effectiveness of fluconazole by reducing fungal levels by up to ten thousandfold.

SourceDuke University·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

Limited adaptability makes freshwater bacteria vulnerable to climate change

Climate change threatens freshwater habitats, disrupting microbial communities essential for nutrient cycling and water quality maintenance. Many abundant freshwater bacteria with small genomes experience extended periods of adaptive standstill, limiting their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2024

Simulated High-altitude exposure for 24-hours is well tolerated by adolescents and adults with single-ventricle physiology after Fontan-palliation

Researchers investigated the effects of hypoxia on hemodynamic and metabolic parameters in patients with Fontan circulation. The study found that oxygen saturation levels remain stable during sleep and that prolonged high-altitude exposure is well-tolerated, offering new perspectives for patients with Fontan circulation.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalCirculation·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2024

COVID-19 pandemic changed attitudes toward wearables

A new Northwestern University study found that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased interest in wearable health-monitoring devices among low-income Hispanic and Latine adults. Despite growing interest, several barriers remain, including lack of affordability, accessibility, and usability, which prevent these groups from adopti...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeSurvey·DateMay 8, 2024

Evolutionary algorithm generates tailored “molecular fingerprints”

A team at the University of Münster developed an improved method for explaining machine predictions of chemical reactions, using mechanisms such as reproduction, mutation and selection. The algorithm creates customised molecular fingerprints that predict chemical reactions with surprising accuracy, suitable for predicting quantum chemi...

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalChem·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2024

Strictly no dancing

New molecular design principles can stop electrons from coupling with atomic vibrations, improving the performance of organic molecules in OLEDs and other applications. This breakthrough opens up new trajectories for industries such as displays, bio-medical imaging, and disease detection.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2024

Mount Sinai scientists unravel how psychedelic drugs interact with serotonin receptors to potentially produce therapeutic benefits

Researchers have shed light on the mechanisms by which psychedelic drugs, such as LSD and psilocybin, bind to and activate serotonin receptors. The study highlights the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds in treating depression and anxiety disorders.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

Faster approach for starting extended-release naltrexone to treat opioid use disorder shown effective

Starting people with opioid use disorder on extended-release, injectable naltrexone within five to seven days of seeking treatment is more effective than the standard method. This rapid treatment protocol requires closer medical supervision and could make XR-naltrexone a more viable option for treating opioid use disorder.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 8, 2024

Solving physics puzzles with colored dots

Researchers at ETH Zurich and Harvard/Princeton used quantum pointillism to study complex quantum systems made of interacting particles. They observed the formation of spin polarons, which are crucial for understanding magnetic behavior in materials.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2024

JNM supplement highlights nuclear medicine innovation in China

A new supplement to The Journal of Nuclear Medicine highlights China's significant advances in research and development, including long-field PET scanners and innovative theranostic concepts. The supplement aims to inform international collaborations and multicenter studies, featuring top experts in molecular imaging and theranostics.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMay 8, 2024

Unlocking consciousness: a new frontier in neuroscientific fusion

The study suggests that memory plays a pivotal role in shaping consciousness, contrasting the idea that computer-based Information Theory provides a sufficient framework for understanding neural memory. The researchers propose a novel perspective that memory underpins consciousness, introducing the concept of a "brain cloud" to illustr...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalInternational Journal of Psychiatry Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 8, 2024

Scientists find out what you breathe while breaking a sweat

A recent study led by Prof. Yele Sun found that gym air contains a higher percentage of organic aerosols compared to outdoor air, with 50% of indoor air consisting of these particles. The study also identified two types of organic aerosols that can be inhaled during exercise, potentially impacting health.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateMay 8, 2024

Considering many factors causing older veteran’s cognitive difficulties may improve personalized care

A new study investigates how various factors, including PTSD, influence cognitive functioning in Veterans aged 65 and older. The research suggests that certain screenings may miss underlying causes of cognitive decline, highlighting the need for comprehensive evaluations to guide treatment recommendations.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 8, 2024

Who should receive preventive treatment for TB? Individuals of all ages with positive skin or blood test, new study says

A new study suggests that countries should prioritize tuberculosis treatment for exposed individuals with evidence of TB infection, regardless of age—except in high-burden settings, where all exposed individuals should be considered for treatment. Preventive treatment can stop latent TB infections from developing into deadly TB disease.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 8, 2024

Getting dirty to clean up the chemical industry’s environmental impact

Researchers discovered that adding water-resistant materials to an electrode can dramatically speed up chemical reactions in water, known as 'fouling'. This process can increase reaction rates up to six times faster than traditional methods. By leveraging this method, the chemical industry may be able to reduce its reliance on fossil f...

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

An adjuvant made in yeast could lower vaccine cost and boost availability

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have successfully produced the QS-21 adjuvant in yeast, which is currently extracted from tree bark. The production process is cheaper and more environmentally friendly than traditional methods, making it a promising solution for lowering vaccine costs and increasing availability.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

How infections influence our social empathy

Researchers found that acute inflammation from bacterial endotoxin administration led to a significant reduction in empathy for psychological pain in healthy women. The study highlights the impact of inflammation on both physical and interpersonal relationships.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

Research warns of hazardous health risks from flavored vapes

A new study published in Scientific Reports predicts the potential formation of 127 acutely toxic chemicals in flavored vapes. The research highlights the urgent need for comprehensive regulation of vaping products, particularly among non-smoking teenagers and young adults.

SourceRCSI·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 8, 2024

Diabetes in youth may increase risk for neurodegenerative disease, like Alzheimer’s disease later in life

A recent CU Anschutz study found that young people with youth-onset diabetes have a higher risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study discovered specific blood biomarkers and elevated amyloid protein accumulation in the brains of participants, indicating an early onset AD risk trajectory.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalEndocrines·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2024

Exercise, new drug class recommended for management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association have released a new clinical guideline for effectively managing individuals diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The guideline recommends exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle, including low-to-moderate intensity recreational activities, while also introducing a...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 8, 2024

Marine bacteria team up to produce a vital vitamin

Researchers discovered that two species of marine bacteria work together to produce vitamin B12, essential for metabolism and survival of many marine organisms. The bacteria release building blocks into the water, which are then combined to form the vitamin through a complex process involving viral infection.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

New guidelines for depression care emphasize patient-centred approach

The updated guidelines cover eight primary topic areas, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment selection, and strategies to prevent recurrence. The recommendations are organized by lines of treatment based on the level of evidence supporting each therapy, with an emphasis on safety, tolerability, and feasibility.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 8, 2024

‘Mathematical microscope’ reveals novel, energy-efficient mechanism of working memory that works even during sleep

Researchers at UCLA Health discovered a novel, energy-efficient mechanism of working memory that reduces metabolic cost even during sleep. The discovery is published in Nature Communications and may provide an early diagnostic for Alzheimer's disease and related dementia.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2024

A third Covid vaccine dose improves defence for some clinically extremely vulnerable patients

A third Covid vaccine dose has been shown to improve defensive antibody responses in some clinically extremely vulnerable patients. The trial found that 90% of patients who received a booster dose developed significant antibodies, but more than half of those with low initial responses saw no improvement.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 8, 2024

SARS-CoV-2 and type 1 diabetes in children: new study aims to explore the relationship

A new study aims to investigate whether vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 can protect children at increased genetic risk of developing type 1 diabetes. The AVAnT1A Study, the largest intervention study to date, examines the relationship between viral infections and early childhood development.

Addition of radix salviae decoction for a short period does not significantly change coronary stenosis and restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention

A clinical trial found that adding Radix Salviae decoction to conventional treatment did not change coronary stenosis and restenosis rates after percutaneous coronary intervention. The diagnosis of MI/angina, average stent length, and ALT levels were associated with neostenosis occurrence.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Exploratory Research in Pharmacology·DateMay 8, 2024

Hyperspectral dark-field microscopy for rapid and accurate identification of cancerous tissues

Researchers have developed a new imaging technique that rapidly and accurately identifies cancerous tissues in breast samples. The method uses machine learning algorithms trained on hyperspectral dark-field microscopy data to pinpoint regions of invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive mucinous carcinoma.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateMay 8, 2024

The spread of misinformation varies by topic and by country in Europe

A study published in PLOS ONE found that people in Europe primarily consume trustworthy news, but a small percentage rely on questionable sources. The ratio of questionable news to reliable news consumption differs between countries, highlighting the need for context-specific approaches to fighting misinformation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2024

Researchers say future is bright for treating substance abuse through mobile health technologies

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are developing evidence-based mobile health interventions to treat substance use disorders. By leveraging smartphones, they aim to create highly tailored interventions delivered at the right time for individuals, reducing stigma and improving treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalAnnual Review of Clinical Psychology·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 8, 2024

Study led by ORNL informs climate resilience strategies in urban, rural areas

A new study led by ORNL provides valuable insights into vegetation resilience in response to extreme heat events, informing pathways for climate mitigation. The analysis found that impervious surfaces, moisture conditions, and type of land cover affect vegetation resilience, with preservation and enhancement of vegetation contributing ...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 8, 2024

Teens who view their homes as more chaotic than their siblings have poorer mental health in adulthood

A new study reveals that teenagers who perceive their households as more unstructured and disorganized than their siblings develop more mental health problems in early adulthood. The findings suggest that psychologists could develop interventions to modify adolescents' perceptions of their home environments.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

Using health records to predict patients’ risk of falling

Researchers developed a falls prediction model called eFalls that uses primary care electronic health record data to predict patients' risk of falling within the next 12 months. The tool has been shown promising results in testing and could help identify people at risk who can benefit from specialist assessments and interventions.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalAge and Ageing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2024

Generative AI that imitates human motion

The new approach combines central pattern generators (CPGs) with deep reinforcement learning (DRL), generating human-like movements for walking, running, and adapting to frequencies where motion data is absent. This breakthrough sets a new benchmark in robotics, offering unprecedented environmental adaptation capability.

SourceTohoku University·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateMay 8, 2024

An AI leap into chemical synthesis

Researchers developed ChemCrow, an AI-powered tool that integrates expertly designed software tools to autonomously perform chemical synthesis tasks. The system enables plan-and-execute approach with reduced hallucinations and practical application, accelerating research and development in pharmaceuticals and materials science.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMay 8, 2024

Disorder improves battery life

A team of international researchers, led by TU Delft, found that introducing chemical short-range disorder into layered oxide materials used as cathode materials can significantly improve the stability and performance of lithium-ion batteries. This improvement results in a longer cycle life and shorter charging times for well-establish...

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 8, 2024

Decoding the complex genetic network of antimicrobial resistance in Campylobacter jejuni using advanced gene network analysis

Researchers used advanced gene network analysis to decode Campylobacter jejuni's complex genetic network and understand its role in antimicrobial resistance. The study identified hub genes and functional relationships that could serve as potential drug targets for combating antibiotic-resistant C. jejuni infections.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalGene Expression·DateMay 8, 2024

Study shows heightened sensitivity to PTSD in autism

A recent study has revealed that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more susceptible to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to an overactivation of the prefrontal cortex. The researchers found that core autism traits worsen when traumatic memories are formed, highlighting a potential predisposition to PTSD in ASD.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024