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Science News for November 14, 2024


Global partnership channels more than USD 1 billion to scale up weather services for hundreds of millions of farmers across Asia, Latin America and Africa

A global partnership has committed over $1 billion to scale up weather services for hundreds of millions of farmers across Asia, Latin America, and Africa. The initiative aims to provide high-quality, farmer-centered forecasts using AI-supported weather forecasting to build resilience and support adaptation to climate change.

What determines support for EU-climate policy?

A recent study by Sharon Baute found that 95% of German respondents agree climate change is partly man-made, but public approval heavily depends on policy design features. Social components, such as investing in human capital or providing subsidies for low-income households, can significantly increase support for EU climate policy.

Tennessee RiverLine secures $500,000 Appalachian Regional Commission Grant for river experience planning and design standards

The Tennessee RiverLine initiative has been awarded a $500,000 Area Development grant to support the development of comprehensive Planning and Design Standards. These standards will help accelerate investments in river access amenities, outdoor recreation infrastructure, and community connectivity across the Tennessee River valley.

The Texas Heart Institute welcomes Dr. Jorge A. Miranda to lead the Limb Preservation Clinic at The Texas Heart Institute Center for Cardiovascular Care

Dr. Jorge A. Miranda joins The Texas Heart Institute as leader of the newly established Limb Preservation Clinic, enhancing cardiovascular care for patients at risk for limb-threatening conditions. The clinic offers a team-based approach addressing immediate and underlying causes of peripheral vascular disease and cardiovascular disease.

New study provides first evidence of African children with severe malaria experiencing partial resistance to world’s most powerful malaria drug

A new study from Uganda documents partial resistance to artemisinin in 11 out of 100 African children with severe malaria, suggesting a growing concern for the efficacy of lifesaving malaria treatments. The study also reveals that 10 patients who were thought to have been cured suffered repeat malaria attacks within 28 days.

Slow editing of protein blueprints leads to cell death

A team of researchers has identified a mechanism that interferes with the splicing process in a more subtle way, leading to cell death. The study reveals that spliceosome subunits U4, U5, and U6 are normally stabilized by protein USP39, but when mutated or absent, stability is compromised, causing incorrect connections during splicing.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Remote telemedicine tool found highly accurate in diagnosing melanoma

A new study found that a remote telemedicine tool called SpotCheck is highly accurate in diagnosing melanoma, with experts able to remotely examine skin lesions using dermoscopy. The tool has the potential to address diagnostic and treatment disparities for lower-income populations with limited access to dermatologists.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 14, 2024

Diverse and diverging demands on forests in Germany

Research led by the University of Göttingen found enriching beech forests with commercially valuable native and non-native conifer species can enhance biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and economic performance. The study showed that mixing beech with Douglas fir resulted in positive gains, particularly for biodiversity and economic ...

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Exposure to marijuana in the womb may increase risk of addiction to opioids later in life, study finds

A study found that prenatal exposure to THC increases dopamine release and rewires the fetal brain, leading to a higher risk of opioid addiction later in life. The research suggests that THC exposure during pregnancy may contribute to neurobiological vulnerabilities, making individuals more susceptible to addiction-like behavior.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Fayetteville police positive about partnership with social workers

The Fayetteville Police Department has seen a significant improvement in its response to mental health crises thanks to its partnership with the University of Arkansas School of Social Work. The co-response teams, which pair officers with trained social workers, have reduced workload and helped better serve individuals in crisis.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalJournal of Police and Criminal Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateNov 14, 2024

Promise in fighting drug-resistant pathogens innovative study shows

A new study developed an innovative approach to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by tagging them with a chimeric agent that activates the immune system towards them. This tagging technique helps the immune system recognize and eliminate elusive pathogens, offering a promising new direction for fighting drug-resistant infections.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalBioconjugate Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Professor Irene Coin’s lab: Important publication on genetic code expansion and Blue Flame Award

Irene Coin's lab has developed a comprehensive overview of genetic code expansion technology and its application in membrane proteins. The technology allows for the modification of proteins directly in living cells, enabling the production of novel protein therapeutics and a deeper understanding of natural proteins.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalChemical Reviews·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 14, 2024

$1.5 million support from Glenn Foundation for Medical Research for 2024 Grants for Junior Faculty and Postdoctoral Fellowships boosts vital funding for early career investigators in aging

The American Federation for Aging Research has announced sixteen recipients of the 2024 Glenn Foundation for Medical Research Postdoctoral Fellowships in Aging Research and four recipients of the Glenn Foundation for Medical Research Grants for Junior Faculty, providing $1.5 million in vital funding.

Deciphering the anomalous properties of water

A new theoretical model, CVF, accurately reproduces the thermodynamic properties of water under different conditions, revealing a critical point that explains its unique anomalies. The model has implications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases and developing advanced biotechnologies.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Robotic shorts support people when walking

Researchers at TUM developed robotic shorts called WalkON that provide motorized support during walking. The system reduces metabolic cost by 10-18%, improving mobility and quality of life for frail individuals, particularly the elderly. Developers aim to create a modular exoskeleton system for leisure activities in the future.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

NRL completes development of robotics capable of servicing satellites, enabling resilience for the U.S. space infrastructure

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has successfully developed a robotic suite capable of servicing satellites in orbit, enabling resilience for the US space infrastructure. The Robotic Servicing of Geosynchronous Satellites Integrated Robotic Payload (IRP) will enable satellite upgrades and repairs, reducing complexity and cost.

Limit hospital emissions by using short AI prompts - study

A recent study highlights the environmental impact of large language models in medicine, suggesting that using short AI prompts can reduce resource consumption and emissions. Researchers propose five key questions healthcare providers should consider before implementing AI systems to minimize their footprint.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalInternal Medicine Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 14, 2024

Cash is King: The surprising truth about spending habits in a cashless world

Research from the University of Surrey found that physical cash fosters a sense of psychological ownership, leading to more responsible spending behaviors. Participants in focus groups and questionnaires reported feeling a deeper connection to their money when using cash, which is lacking with digital payments.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalQualitative Market Research An International Journal·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2024

Texting abbreviations makes senders seem insincere, study finds

Using texting abbreviations is associated with being perceived as less sincere and receiving fewer responses, according to a new study published by the American Psychological Association. Texters who used abbreviations were seen as exerting less effort in text conversations and eliciting negative perceptions.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Reintroduction of resistant frogs facilitates landscape-scale recovery in the presence of a lethal fungal disease

A long-term study has shown that reintroducing resistant mountain yellow-legged frogs to sites infested with the deadly amphibian chytrid fungus allows for landscape-scale recovery. The frogs have developed resistance to the fungus, enabling them to persist in its presence and thrive in their ecosystems.

Korea University College of Medicine study reveals COVID-19 vaccine safety in patients with atrial fibrillation/flutter

A Korean University College of Medicine study investigated COVID-19 vaccine safety in patients with atrial fibrillation/flutter. The research found no significant increase in the risk of thromboembolic events following COVID-19 vaccination, but patients without anticoagulant therapy were at higher risk. The study highlights the importa...

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2024

Study outlines key role of national and EU policy to control emissions from German hydrogen economy

The study evaluates climate-warming emissions in Germany's future hydrogen economy and provides recommendations for policymakers to minimize impacts. Hydrogen production emits methane, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen itself, with global warming potential more than eleven times higher than CO2.

Unregulated experts can cause harm to children in family courts in England and Wales

A UCL study reveals that unregulated experts appointed by family courts in England and Wales have caused devastating harm to children, separating them from their mothers and forcing them to live with abusive fathers. The 'alienation' belief system has become a legal weapon that punishes and controls those who speak up about abuse.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Social Welfare and Family Law·DateNov 14, 2024

It’s my brain’s fault! Why teenagers make often unwise decisions

A recent study published in PLOS Biology found that teenagers often make suboptimal choices due to limited cognitive resources. As they grow older, these 'noisy' decisions decrease and are replaced by more sophisticated choice behaviors. This improvement is linked to increased performance across learning tasks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Frequent emergency care during pregnancy could signal greater risk for severe maternal morbidity

A new study found that pregnant people in Massachusetts who made multiple unscheduled hospital visits during pregnancy were more likely to experience severe maternal morbidity. The study revealed that nearly half of these patients visited multiple hospitals, leading to inconsistent treatment and poor maternal outcomes.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2024

How can we reduce adolescent pregnancies in low- and middle-income countries?

A new large study from Zambia found that two years of financial support combined with comprehensive sexuality education and community dialogue meetings moderately reduced births during the support period. Longer-term efforts to make high school more affordable are likely to be important to keep girls in school and reduce adolescent pre...

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalClinical Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 14, 2024

New study in Science finds that just four global policies could eliminate more than 90% of plastic waste and 30% of linked carbon emissions by 2050

A comprehensive study published in Science finds that implementing four global policies can reduce mismanaged plastic waste by 91% and plastic-related greenhouse gas emissions by one-third. The policies include increasing post-consumer recycled plastic, capping new plastic production, investing in waste management, and implementing a s...

Social isolation, loneliness and frailty in older adults have a complex and sometimes mutually reinforcing relationship

A new study analyzed 21 years of data from over 2,300 older Dutch adults, finding that physical frailty can lead to social isolation and loneliness, while also being an indicator of future social isolation. Lifestyle changes such as better nutrition, exercise, and social activities can reverse these conditions.

SourceConcordia University·JournalAge and Ageing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2024

A new technology to isolate immunostimulatory members of the human gut microbiota: next-generation IgA-seq

Scientists at UMC Utrecht developed a new technology to isolate and study gut bacteria recognized by IgA antibodies, which are associated with various diseases. The next-generation IgA-SEQ method allows for high-throughput identification and analysis of these immunostimulatory bacteria, shedding light on their role in health and disease.

SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalMicrobiome·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Transforming anion exchange membranes in water electrolysis for green hydrogen production

A new polymer-based anion exchange membrane has been developed to improve the performance and durability of water electrolysis for green hydrogen production. The membrane demonstrates high hydroxide ion conductivity and can withstand extreme alkaline conditions, making it a valuable component in sustainable hydrogen production.

SourceWaseda University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Genetic variation enhances cancer drug sensitivity

A recent study from Uppsala University found that genetic variation in cancer cells can enhance the effects of an already approved cancer drug, talazoparib, against liver cancer cells lacking a functional CYP2D6 enzyme. This suggests a potential for more individually tailored and effective cancer therapies.

SourceUppsala University·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Atomically dispersed Fe boosting elimination performance of g-C₃N₄ towards refractory sulfonic azo compounds via catalyst-contaminant interaction

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) photocatalyst can be modified with Fe to increase reactive active sites and accelerate charge separation, leading to enhanced self-Fenton reaction and effective elimination of refractory sulfonic azo compounds. The new Fe₁/OPCN composite shows superior removal efficiency under visible light.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Standardized autism screening during pediatric well visits identified more, younger children with high likelihood for autism diagnosis

A new study found that standardized autism screening during pediatric well-child visits identifies more children with high autism likelihood at a younger age. The study used the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F) and compared it to usual care.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateNov 14, 2024

Land-use policy rethink vital to hit net zero

Researchers suggest a 'Natural Capital' approach would deliver better value for money and improve chances of meeting environmental targets, such as Net Zero. This approach prioritizes areas with greatest environmental, climate change, biodiversity, and recreational value.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 14, 2024

New study reveals half a century of change on Britain’s iconic limestone pavements

A new study has found that Britain's iconic limestone pavements have undergone significant changes over the past 50 years, with some areas experiencing increases in plant biodiversity while others have seen declines in rare specialist species. The research highlights the importance of understanding these changes for conservation efforts.

SourceLancaster University·JournalFunctional Ecology·TypeSurvey·DateNov 14, 2024

Electric field signals reveal early warnings for extreme weather, study reveals

Researchers analyzed data from southern Israel to find significant electric field changes during heavy precipitation, suggesting early indicators for extreme weather. The study highlights the potential of incorporating electric field observations into weather monitoring systems for enhanced nowcasting capabilities.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalAtmospheric Research·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2024

Study uncovers first evidence of resistance to standard malaria treatment in African children with severe malaria

A study published in JAMA found evidence of partial resistance to artemisinin derivatives in young children with severe malaria, raising questions about the need for new treatments. The study also showed that 10% of children returned within 28 days with an infection from the same strain they had during their original admission.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJAMA·DateNov 14, 2024

PTSD patients can benefit just as much from intensive outpatient programs as from inpatient clinics, new study shows

A recent study published in the Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma found that intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are as effective as inpatient treatment for PTSD patients, with better completion rates and lower drop-out levels. The study compared IOPs to traditional inpatient treatment programs and residential care.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Aggression Maltreatment & Trauma·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 14, 2024

Clinical trial shows positive results for potential treatment to combat a challenging rare disease

A phase 3 clinical trial has demonstrated that inebilizumab significantly reduced the risk of symptoms in patients with immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) by 87%. The treatment, which depletes CD19-expressing B cells, shows promise for improving patient outcomes and reducing the need for immunosuppressive treatment.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 14, 2024

Global plastic waste set to double by 2050, but new study offers blueprint for significant reductions

A machine learning study predicts that global plastic waste could double by 2050 without intervention, but a combined policy approach could cut mismanaged plastic waste by up to 91% and decrease emissions by a third. The UN treaty negotiations provide a crucial blueprint for tackling the plastic crisis.

Long-sought measurement of exotic beta decay in thallium helps extract the timescale of the Sun’s birth

Researchers successfully measured the bound-state beta decay of fully-ionized thallium ions, revealing key information about AGB star production and the Sun's formation time. The discovery allows for accurate calculations of radioactive lead production in these stars, providing insights into the solar system's early history.

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

The Lancet: Without immediate action nearly 260 million people in the USA predicted to have overweight or obesity by 2050

The Lancet predicts devastating trends at the population level, with 43.1 million US children and adolescents and 213 million adults expected to have overweight or obesity by 2050. Without significant reform, the prevalence of overweight and obesity is set to continue and even increase in some states.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 14, 2024

Deep learning streamlines identification of 2D materials

Researchers developed a deep learning-based method for identifying 2D materials using Raman spectroscopy, achieving high classification accuracy and reducing manual intervention. The new approach generates synthetic data to enhance datasets, enabling precise material characterization even with scarce experimental data.

Antarctic streptomyces: promising biocontrol agents to combat banana wilt

Researchers have discovered two Antarctic actinomycete strains with strong antifungal properties against the fungus causing banana wilt. The strains, Streptomyces polyrhachis and Streptomyces fildesensis, showed effective inhibition of Fusarium oxysporum growth, making them potential biocontrol agents for sustainable disease management.

SourceEscuela Superior Politecnica del Litoral·JournalBiotechnology Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

A development by Graz University of Technology makes concreting more reliable, safer and more economical

Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a digital monitoring system to prevent costly mistakes in concreting processes. The system uses sensors and algorithms to measure and analyze various parameters, providing real-time warnings for potential issues, and eliminating the need for rework.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 14, 2024