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Science News for November 12, 2024


Wyss Institute’s iNodes team receives ARPA-H Sprint for Women’s Health award to advance the first implantable immune organs to treat ovarian cancer

The Wyss Institute's iNodes team has been awarded an ARPA-H Sprint for Women's Health to develop implantable immune organs for treating ovarian cancer. The iNodes concept is based on the formation of lymphoid organs in tumors, which can be reprogrammed to attack cancer cells and retain a long-term immune memory.

AI needs to work on its conversation game

Researchers at Tufts University have discovered that AI's poor performance in conversational skills stems from its limited exposure to transcribed spoken language. The AI is trained on vast datasets of written content but lacks the nuance of human conversation, making it struggle with timing and turn-taking.

SourceTufts University·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Study: The evolutionary origins of poor long-term decision making

A new study led by UNLV anthropologist Brian Villmoare models thousands of generations to understand why animals, including humans, prioritize short-term benefits over long-term returns. The research suggests that organisms choose a more distant reward only if it's substantially higher and has a high degree of reliability.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalPLOS One·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 12, 2024

More than 5 million Americans would be eligible for psychedelic therapy, study finds

A study from Emory University reveals that 56-62% of individuals treated for Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment-Resistant Depression are eligible for psilocybin-assisted therapy, which could benefit around 5.1-5.6 million people in the US. The treatment has potential to reduce symptoms of depression with a single dose of 25 mg of ...

SourceEmory Health Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 12, 2024

New lignin-based hydrogel breakthrough for wound healing and controlled drug release

The study presents a lignin-based hydrogel that combines mechanical strength with bioactivity, promoting wound healing and sustained drug release. The hydrogel's controlled-release properties make it an ideal candidate for treating complex wounds and reducing medication side effects.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Protecting tax whistleblowers pays off

A study by Aruhn Venkat found that the law led to a significant reduction in tax avoidance strategies, including shifting money overseas or moving it to special purpose entities. The law also had a deterrent effect on companies, with publicity around actual whistleblower lawsuits having a complementary effect.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalManagement Science·DateNov 12, 2024

Grabbing pizza with coworkers isn’t just fun — it could boost your teamwork skills

A new study by Binghamton University Assistant Professor Matthew Lyle highlights the benefits of shared memories among employees from different departments. The research found that such experiences can motivate cross-occupational coordination, foster a sense of belonging, and ultimately improve teamwork skills.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Management Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 12, 2024

Smoking habit affects response to false feedback

A study found that smoking habits interfere with performance on cognitive tasks involving memory and attention, and impairs a person's ability to detect deception. The study revealed two clusters of participants with differing physiological responses to stress, including pupil dilation and heart rate parameters.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

New study explores the role of BMI in disease risk

A new study from deCODE genetics/Amgen highlights the importance of Body Mass Index (BMI) in disease pathology, suggesting that reducing BMI could lower the risk of various diseases. For some conditions like fatty liver disease and glucose intolerance, the genetic link to disease disappears when BMI is taken into account.

SourcedeCODE genetics·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 12, 2024

First-ever randomized clinical trial uses telehealth for suicide prevention

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that brief cognitive behavioral therapy via video telehealth reduces suicide attempts and suicidal ideation, providing critical insight into treatment options for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. The study also shows that this therapy is effective in reducing depressive symptoms.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 12, 2024

New blood test offers early detection of drug-induced tissue damage in cancer patients

A new blood test can detect early signs of lung damage caused by antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) in cancer patients, providing a safer alternative to frequent scans. This breakthrough method analyzes specific markers in circulating DNA, enabling doctors to monitor patients for lung complications without relying solely on imaging scans.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalESMO Open·TypeCase study·DateNov 12, 2024

Combination approach shows promise for treating rare, aggressive cancers

Researchers at UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have shown that combining pembrolizumab, an immunotherapy drug, with standard chemotherapy can improve treatment outcomes for patients with advanced small cell bladder cancer and small cell/neuroendocrine prostate cancer. The study found that the combination treatment resul...

‘Moonlighting’ enzymes can lead to new cancer therapies

Researchers have discovered that metabolic enzymes play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the human genome by orchestrating critical functions like cell division and DNA repair. This discovery could lead to new cancer therapies, particularly for triple-negative breast cancer, by exploiting its metabolic vulnerabilities.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Air pollution emerges as critical environmental risk factor for autism, emerging topic review finds

A groundbreaking review finds that environmental exposure to air pollutants during prenatal development and early childhood significantly impact autism risk. The study identifies several key pathways through which air pollutants may influence ASD development, including nitrosative stress, neuroinflammation, and epigenetic modifications.

SourceGenomic Press·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 12, 2024

Atmosphere engineering of metal-free Te/C₃N₄ p-n heterojunction for nearly 100% photocatalytic conversion of CO₂ to CO

Researchers developed a novel p-n heterojunction photocatalyst combining ultrasmall Te nanoparticles and CN nanosheets, achieving nearly 100% CO conversion selectivity to CO. The internal electric field accelerates electron transfer, reducing electron-hole recombination and enhancing CO reduction efficiency.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Fossil fuel CO2 emissions increase again in 2024

The 2024 Global Carbon Budget projects fossil CO2 emissions of 37.4 billion tonnes, up 0.8% from 2023, despite urgent calls to cut emissions to slow climate change. The report finds that overall emissions are roughly level over the last decade, but both fossil and land-use change CO2 emissions are set to rise in 2024.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEarth System Science Data·DateNov 12, 2024

Johns Hopkins researchers use electronic diagnostic model to predict acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) in patients

Acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) is a common cause of acute kidney injury, often linked to medication use. Johns Hopkins researchers developed an electronic diagnostic model using machine learning to predict AIN in patients, showing improved accuracy in diagnosis and potential benefits for treatment decisions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 12, 2024

Scientists develop advanced catalyst for self-driven seawater splitting with enhanced chloride resistance

Researchers have developed a new electrocatalyst called Co-N/S-HCS that demonstrates remarkable activity and stability in seawater electrolysis, offering a sustainable solution for hydrogen production. The catalyst shows improved resistance to chloride ion corrosion, enabling long-term stability and high performance.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalChem Catalysis·DateNov 12, 2024

Immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab improves outcomes for patients with soft tissue sarcoma

A new clinical trial found that the addition of immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab to standard treatment improved disease-free survival rates for patients with stage 3 soft tissue sarcoma. The study showed that pembrolizumab reduced recurrence or death for patients by 15 percentage points compared to standard treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 12, 2024

Possible to limit climate change to 1.5°C – if EU and 17 other countries go beyond their own targets

A new study quantifies each country's equal share of the remaining 1.5C carbon budget based on equal per capita historic emissions since 1990 and share of the remaining carbon budget. High-income countries have large carbon debts, while several upper-middle income countries have high future emissions.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 12, 2024

Young coral use metabolic tricks to resist bleaching

Coral larvae reduce metabolism and increase nitrogen uptake to resist bleaching in high temperatures. This adaptation allows the coral to conserve energy and resources, while also limiting algal overgrowth and maintaining symbiotic relationships.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Comprehensive Genomic Profiling leads to better patient outcomes, new joint study says

A new real-world study found that Comprehensive Genomic Profiling (CGP) leads to better personalized treatment and patient outcomes when done early in a cancer diagnosis. CGP-assessed patients received biomarker-driven targeted therapy or immunotherapy, significantly improving overall survival of 25 months compared to chemotherapy alone.

SourceProvidence Health & Services·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2024

Can everyday physical activity improve cognitive health in middle age?

A new study found that middle-aged people who engage in everyday physical activity show improvements in cognitive processing speed, which can counteract the natural decline in cognitive abilities with age. The study, led by Penn State researcher Jonathan Hakun, used ecological momentary assessment to track participants' daily activitie...

SourcePenn State·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2024

University of Cincinnati study show the effectiveness of a portable EKG patch

A new wireless EKG patch developed by MG Medical Products has been shown to be as accurate as traditional EKG machines in a recent University of Cincinnati study. The patch eliminates electrode misplacement errors and reduces hospital readmission rates, particularly in skilled nursing facilities and correctional institutions.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalClinical Research in Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2024

Study advances understanding of metformin effects on fetus

Metformin, a widely prescribed diabetes drug, may increase risks of obesity and diabetes in newborns when given to pregnant women. The study found that the drug accumulated in the fetal kidneys, liver, and other organs, leading to growth restriction, which has been linked to an elevated risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Better chances for chemotherapy in neuroblastoma

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have discovered that blocking the METTL3 protein can increase sensitivity to chemotherapy in neuroblastoma, a type of cancer primarily affecting young children. This study suggests that METTL3 inhibitors could be used as a new treatment strategy for high-risk neuroblastoma, especially for c...

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Sleep is no light matter for bees

A new study found that artificial light significantly disrupts the circadian rhythms of honey bees, leading to impaired behaviors and reduced sleep periods. This poses a threat to their essential role as pollinators, supporting ecosystem stability and global food security.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Only half of young cancer patients report a discussion on fertility preservation

A recent study found that only half of young cancer patients report discussing fertility preservation options with their healthcare provider. The study, which included 473 patients between the ages of 18 and 49, highlights the need for comprehensive reproductive health care in oncology treatment. Fertility preservation discussions were...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 12, 2024

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers find community health workers play critical role in coordinating asthma care across home, school and community

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that community health workers can effectively coordinate asthma care between homes, schools, and primary care providers. This approach showed a statistically significant benefit in improving asthma control for children.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 12, 2024

Digital twins and complexity data science

Digital twins simulate real-world objects or systems, allowing researchers to explore unexplored scenarios and gain insights. Complexity data science combines techniques from complexity science and data science, providing novel capabilities for society's challenges.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 12, 2024

New study links air pollution with higher rates of head and neck cancer

A recent study published in Scientific Reports correlates higher levels of pollutant particulate matter with increased occurrences of head and neck aerodigestive cancer. The research found a significant association between exposure to PM2.5 and the incidence of head and neck cancer, shedding light on the environmental factor contributi...

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 12, 2024

Introducing the Machine Intelligence Quotient: A new standard for evaluating autonomous vehicle intelligence

Researchers developed a comprehensive methodology to quantify intelligence attributes in autonomous vehicles, harmonizing physical, cognitive, and functionality domains. The MIQ framework provides a transformative approach that benchmarks intelligence and fosters human-like cognition.

SourceELSP·JournalArtificial Intelligence and Autonomous Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

More green space linked to fewer preventable deaths in most deprived areas of UK

Research suggests that a 1% increase in green space in deprived urban areas could lead to 40% fewer preventable deaths. The study found that access to green space is poorest in the most deprived areas, with significant associations between green space and preventable deaths in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2024

Eco-friendly biomass pretreatment method yields efficient biofuels and adsorbents

A new biomass densification technique increases bioethanol production efficiency by up to 95% sugar retention and 90% enzymatic sugar conversion. The method also utilizes biomass residues as effective bio-adsorbents for dye wastewater treatment, achieving removal rates of over 90%.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Experts urge complex systems approach to assess A.I. risks

The study emphasizes the need for a coherent approach to understanding A.I. threats, recognizing the intricate interplay between technology and society. Experts propose involving laypeople and experts in risk assessment processes, as well as promoting social resilience to ensure better decision-making.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeCase study·DateNov 12, 2024

Synthetic cells emulate natural cellular communication

Researchers have successfully synthesized simple, environmentally sensitive cells with artificial organelles and emulated natural cell-cell communication. The protocells use light-responsive molecules and calcium ions to transmit signals between cells, paving the way for synthetic tissue development and therapeutic applications.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 12, 2024

CAMP 2.0 helps patients with contact dermatitis identify personal care products free of their allergens

The new CAMP 2.0 tool provides personalized medicine for managing allergic contact dermatitis by generating safe lists based on individual patch testing results. It offers thousands of product options and interactive tools to help patients find safe products, track their quality of life, and understand their allergens.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDermatitis·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 12, 2024

Climate change threatens rare temperate rainforests

A new study warns that climate change could lead to the loss of up to 68% of the world's temperate rainforests by 2100, highlighting the urgent need for action. The UK has a quarter of the world's potential for restoration and is resilient to low and medium amounts of future warming.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEarth's Future·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 12, 2024

Lipidome and proteome insights into Mariana Trench snailfish adaptation to the Hadal Zone

The study reveals that the hadal snailfish has unique metabolic adjustments to store energy, optimize energy utilization, and maintain membrane fluidity. The fish increases lipid reserves, elevates CoQ and ATPase levels, and adjusts fatty acid ratios to withstand food scarcity and high pressure.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater Biology and Security·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

How immune cells “sniff out” pathogens

Researchers from the University of Bonn have developed a new method to study immune receptors using a label-free biosensor assay. This approach allows for the detection of specific chemical signals that activate Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are found on the surface of immune cells and play a crucial role in detecting infections. T...

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 12, 2024

Facing the wind: How trees behave across various forest settings and weather events

Researchers found that trees exhibit two distinct swaying patterns depending on wind speed, with branches absorbing energy in light winds and whole-tree sway in higher winds. The transition between patterns occurred at different wind speeds depending on forest density, shedding light on how forests respond to wind stress.

SourceShinshu University·JournalForest Ecology and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Enhancing compatibility and biodegradability of PLA/biomass composites via forest residue torrefaction

Researchers developed a method to enhance compatibility and biodegradability of PLA/biomass composites through forest residue torrefaction. The composite showed improved tensile strength without compromising biodegradability, making it a more sustainable option for disposable products.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Unlocking the secrets of ketosis

A team of researchers has discovered a previously unknown metabolic pathway involving beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), a key ketone body. This finding suggests that ketones have additional roles in the body's metabolic landscape, potentially influencing appetite suppression and weight regulation under ketosis conditions.

SourceStanford University·JournalCell·DateNov 12, 2024

Unseen dementia: Study finds high rates of undiagnosed cognitive decline in vulnerable communities

A new study reveals that many older adults in low-income communities are living with undiagnosed cognitive impairments, including mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. The study found significant racial disparities, with African American patients being more than twice as likely to have undiagnosed MCI or dementia.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2024

Bioengineered yeast mass produces herbal medicine

A team of Kobe University bioengineers successfully produced artepillin C in bioengineered yeast, achieving ten times the previous yield. The production process involved carefully tuning key steps along the molecular production line, and further improvements are being explored to increase efficiency.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateNov 12, 2024

In step forward for quantum computing hardware, IU physicist uncovers novel behavior in quantum-driven superconductors

Researchers have discovered a new phenomenon in quantum-driven superconductors that could lead to more precise control of driven quantum systems. The study, led by IU Professor Babak Seradjeh, explores the role of Floquet Majorana fermions in the Josephson effect and their potential for developing stable quantum computers.

SourceIndiana University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 12, 2024

POSTECH team pioneers new cancer therapy strategy: targeting GLUT3 in regulatory T cells to supercharge anti-tumor immunity

Researchers at POSTECH have identified GLUT3 as essential for the suppressive function of regulatory T cells in tumor microenvironments, which can be targeted for cancer immunotherapy. The team's findings highlight the critical role of GLUT3 in regulating protein modifications that sustain immune suppression within tumors.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalCellular and Molecular Immunology·DateNov 12, 2024

Specific long term condition combinations have major role in NHS ‘winter pressures’

Research finds that certain combinations of long term conditions increase hospital admission risk by up to 11 times and death risk by up to 24 times. The study analyzed data from 2021-22 and identified specific quartets that are associated with heightened risks, highlighting the need for targeted planning and resource allocation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2024