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Science News for November 18, 2024


Reducing antimicrobial resistance: accelerated efforts are needed to meet the EU targets

Antibiotic consumption in the EU increased by 1% between 2019 and 2023, moving further away from the 2030 target of a 20% reduction. Despite significant reductions in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections, carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae bloodstream infections worsened, with an increase in incide...

New framework champions equity in AI for health care

The EDAI framework is a comprehensive guideline designed to embed equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) principles throughout the artificial intelligence (AI) lifecycle. It addresses a significant gap in current AI development and implementation practices in health and oral healthcare, ensuring AI systems are socially responsible and ...

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 18, 2024

New study: Short-lived soda tax reinforces alternative presumptions on tax impacts on consumer behaviors

A new study published in Marketing Science found that Washington state's short-lived soda tax led to a significant decrease in soda consumption, particularly among stores frequented by tax opponents. The research suggests that the effectiveness of consumption taxes depends on public support for the tax.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·TypeObservational study·DateNov 18, 2024

Diabetes drug shows promise in protecting kidneys

Researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University found that SGLT2 inhibitors like canagliflozin improve kidney oxygenation in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study used BOLD MRI to monitor changes in blood oxygen flow in the kidneys, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit for protecting against diabetic kidney disease.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 18, 2024

Erase the trace: New frontiers in scar prevention and skin repair

Researchers review different types of scars and existing treatment options, exploring new therapies that can reduce scar formation through skin regeneration. New treatments aim to balance VEGF inhibitors and TGF-β3 administration to improve scarring and promote skin regeneration.

SourceELSP·JournalBiofunctional Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 18, 2024

Why substitute sugar with maple syrup?

The study found that substituting pure maple syrup for refined sugars reduced several cardiometabolic risk factors in humans, including improved blood sugar levels and lowered blood pressure. Visceral fat mass also decreased significantly in the maple syrup group. The study's findings suggest that incorporating maple syrup into daily d...

SourceEllen LaNicca Fearless PR·JournalJournal of Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 18, 2024

Migrating birds have stowaway passengers: invasive ticks could spread novel diseases around the world

Climate change is enabling invasive tick species to establish themselves in new areas via migrating birds, potentially spreading novel tick-borne pathogens. The study found that some bird species carried more ticks than others, with certain bacteria types associated with specific tick species.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 18, 2024

World's first visual grading system developed to combat microplastic fashion pollution

Heriot-Watt University has developed a world-first visual grading system to measure fibre shedding from clothing, aiming to reduce microplastic pollution in the fashion industry. The five-point scale assesses fibre fragments shed during washing, allowing manufacturers to select low-shedding materials and communicate with consumers.

SourceHeriot-Watt University·JournalCambridge Prisms Plastics·DateNov 18, 2024

Neat, precise and brighter than ever

Researchers at SwissFEL have achieved breakthroughs in improving the temporal coherence of XFEL pulses by inserting magnetic chicanes to control the timing of the electron beam. This advancement opens new scientific opportunities in fields requiring precise spectral control, such as fundamental physics and applied sciences.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

Study: How can low-dose ketamine, a ‘lifesaving’ drug for major depression, alleviate symptoms within hours? UB research reveals how

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have identified the binding site of low-dose ketamine, revealing how it alleviates major depression symptoms within hours. The study also identifies how depression originates in the brain and may lead to further research on using ketamine-like drugs for other brain disorders.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

Proactively screening diabetics for heart disease does not improve long-term mortality rates or reduce future cardiac events, new study finds

Proactive screening of diabetic patients with coronary heart disease does not improve long-term survival rates or lower future cardiac events, according to a new study. The study found that focusing on proven interventions like medication management and lifestyle changes can help patients with diabetes lead healthier lives.

Robotics and the sense of self in humans

A review paper explores how robots can aid in understanding the human sense of self, including simulating mind and brain processes and testing social capacities. Researchers aim to transfer some features of human self-awareness to robots, which could provide insights into its development and potential applications.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalScience Robotics·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 18, 2024

Researchers define new subtypes of common brain disorder

Researchers have identified three distinct subtypes of Chiari type-1 malformations with distinct characteristics, enabling physicians to develop treatment protocols for patients. The study used artificial intelligence to analyze data from over 1,200 patients and identified patterns that can inform medical decision making.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeurosurgery·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 18, 2024

How 70% of the Mediterranean Sea was lost 5.5 million years ago

Scientists analyzed chlorine isotopes in salt extracted from the Mediterranean seabed to identify two phases of the Messinian Salinity Crisis. The event resulted in a massive loss of up to 70% of the sea's water volume over a short period, triggering volcanic eruptions and global climatic effects.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 18, 2024

New study finds prognostic value of coronary calcium scores effective in predicting risk of heart attack and overall mortality in both women and men

A new study by Intermountain Health found that coronary artery calcium scores are highly effective in identifying those at risk for future heart attacks and death, with similar predictive power in women as in men. The study revealed that individuals with a CAC score of zero were three times less likely to die from any cause.

New oral drug to calm abdominal pain

Researchers have developed a new class of oral painkillers to suppress chronic abdominal pain. The painkillers are based on the peptide hormone oxytocin, which drives childbirth contractions, and work in the colon without crossing into the bloodstream.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

Modeling and analysis reveals technological, environmental challenges to increasing water recovery from desalination

A new analysis reveals that zero liquid discharge (ZLD) technologies can increase water recovery from desalination while reducing waste, but at increased costs and energy consumption. The process poses tradeoffs between fighting future water scarcity and environmental effects.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Water·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2024

High-dose IV vitamin C plus chemotherapy doubles survival in advanced pancreatic cancer

A randomized phase 2 clinical trial shows that adding high-dose, intravenous vitamin C to chemotherapy doubles the overall survival of patients with late-stage metastatic pancreatic cancer from eight months to 16 months. Patients also experience improved quality of life with reduced side effects.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalRedox Biology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 18, 2024

Antibacterial material restores the efficacy of antibiotics against resistant bacteria

A new antibacterial material has been developed to restore the effectiveness of antibiotics against resistant bacteria. The study found a 64-fold increase in bactericidal effect when combining the material with oxacillin, making it effective against MRSA. The material is stable and active over time, offering a potential solution for wo...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

Authoritative review makes connections between electron density topology, future of materials modeling and how we understand mechanisms of phenomena in familiar devices at the atomistic level

The comprehensive review highlights the impact of electron density topology on materials science and chemistry. It reveals connections between methods, including NG QTAIM, and their potential for simulating complex reactions, enabling more realistic computing and understanding of matter.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalChemical Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 18, 2024

Gaming for the good!

A new report from the University of Houston found that massive multiplayer online gamers learn valuable skills in the workplace, including problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. The study revealed that gaming can be a way for people to grow both personally and professionally when done in moderation.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalHuman Resource Development International·DateNov 18, 2024

How marine worms regenerate lost body parts

Researchers from the University of Vienna have discovered that marine worms regenerate lost body parts by dedifferentiation, where cells return to a stem cell-like state. This process allows them to form new segments quickly, with specific gene expression and transcription factors involved.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 18, 2024

New model can help understand coexistence in nature

Researchers at Uppsala University developed a mathematical model to understand how seabird species coexist on isolated islands. The model shows that different species use distinct fishing zones, maximizing energy intake based on traits like wing length and diving depth.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2024

Empowering people, saving the planet: A case for direct democracy

A new study explores the relationship between democratic attributes and greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the effectiveness of Direct Popular Voting in reducing emissions. Civil Society Participation is also found to have a significant impact, particularly in countries with higher GDP per capita. The research provides insights for...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalEcological Economics·TypeCase study·DateNov 18, 2024

Early adoption of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor in patients hospitalized with heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction

Prescription rates of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors increased substantially within 2 years after publication of clinical trial evidence documenting benefit. The study highlights the need to understand strategies used by higher prescribing centers to increase SGLT2i adoption.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateNov 18, 2024

Kaya advancing AI literacy

Erdogan Kaya and his team aim to create an AI curriculum for grades 4-5, focusing on emergent multilingual learners and preparing students for AI-intensive careers. The project explores the impact of the integrated curriculum on students' understanding of AI concepts and teachers' AI teaching efficacy beliefs.

Refugees face high housing instability

Researchers from the Complexity Science Hub found that refugees in Austria experience significantly greater housing instability, with an average of 3.8 moves within a year. This can lead to challenges such as financial strain, limited access to education and healthcare, and unstable relationships within neighborhoods.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalGenus·TypeCase study·DateNov 18, 2024

Neural mechanisms of sleep-dependent motor learning revealed in new study on brain injury rehabilitation

A new study published by Kessler Foundation reveals that short naps can significantly improve motor performance and brain activity associated with motor skill improvement in individuals recovering from traumatic brain injury. This research highlights the potential for incorporating napping protocols into rehabilitation programs to maxi...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 18, 2024

NIH-developed AI algorithm successfully matches potential volunteers to clinical trials release

The NIH-developed AI algorithm, TrialGPT, can identify relevant clinical trials for eligible patients and provide a clear explanation of their eligibility. The researchers found that clinicians using TrialGPT spent 40% less time screening patients while maintaining the same level of accuracy.

SourceNIH/National Library of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2024

Climate change can cause stress in herring larvae

Exposure to multiple environmental stressors simultaneously impairs the ability of herring larvae to react at a molecular level, reducing their capacity for acclimatization. This can lead to increased protein damage and cell injury, potentially affecting growth and survival.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

Cause of the yo-yo effect deciphered

A study by ETH Zurich researchers has found that epigenetic markers in fat cells can lead to the yo-yo effect, where weight drops but returns. The researchers also found evidence of this mechanism in humans, suggesting that obesity can leave a lasting mark on gene expression.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

Machine learning and supercomputer simulations help researchers to predict interactions between gold nanoparticles and blood proteins

Scientists have developed a methodology that can predict the most favorable binding sites of gold nanoparticles to five common human blood proteins. This breakthrough enables researchers to investigate how drug-carrying nanoparticles interact with blood proteins, which could lead to more effective cancer treatments.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2024

Anti-obesity drugs, lifestyle interventions show cardiovascular benefits beyond weight loss

Studies published in JACC found that anti-obesity drugs such as tirzepatide and semaglutide improved cardiac structure and function, as well as reduced cardiac risk biomarkers with lifestyle interventions. These findings suggest that these treatments may have a transformative impact on cardiovascular health beyond weight loss.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 18, 2024

New study shows how social bonds help tool-using monkeys learn new skills

A new study at Durham University found that social tolerance enables social learning in wild bearded capuchin monkeys, leading to the transmission of skills and traditions. The research showed that individuals with strong social tolerance were more likely to learn from others and share information about solving complex tasks.

SourceDurham University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 18, 2024

This year’s dazzling aurora produced a spectacular display… of citizen science

The unusual magenta color of this year's aurora over Japan was discovered through a massive citizen science effort, which collected data from over 775 grassroots submissions. The researchers found that the preheating of the atmosphere due to solar activity, combined with high-altitude ionized molecular nitrogen, created a unique optica...

How humans evolved to be ‘energetically unique’

A new Harvard study finds humans possess higher metabolic rates than primates and apes, allowing for bigger brains, longer lifespan, and increased reproduction. Humans have 'escaped a tradeoff' between resting and active metabolism due to unique sweating ability.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 18, 2024

Plastic bag bans have lingering impacts, even after repeals

A study by University of California - Riverside found that banning free plastic bags for groceries resulted in customers purchasing more plastic bags, despite the policy's goal to reduce waste. The behaviors spurred by the ban lingered even after the rules were repealed, with some impacts not beneficial to the environment.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·TypeObservational study·DateNov 18, 2024

Can podcasts create healthier habits?

Researchers found that podcasts significantly improved health knowledge, increased exercise levels, and boosted healthy eating habits. Engagement with health-related podcasts was generally high, suggesting they could be an effective medium for health information and behavior change interventions.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalDigital Health·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 18, 2024

Nanoplastics can impair the effect of antibiotics

A study from Umea University reveals that nanoplastics can absorb and accumulate antibiotics, reducing their targeted effect and risking the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The researchers found a strong bond between nylon nanoplastics and tetracycline, a common broad-spectrum antibiotic.

SourceUmea University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2024

Diagnosing knee abnormalities like an experienced radiologist: A novel deep learning model by HKUST engineering school

A novel deep learning model called Co-Plane Attention Across MRI Sequences (CoPAS) has been developed to assist with classifying 12 common types of knee abnormalities. The model achieved high classification accuracy comparable to that of radiologists, improving diagnostic efficiency and reducing errors.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 18, 2024

Political shadows cast by the Antarctic curtain

A Kobe University research team analyzes the political repercussions of a proposed underwater curtain to protect Antarctic ice sheets from melting. The team highlights concerns around authority, sovereignty, and security, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to avoid conflict.

SourceKobe University·JournalInternational Affairs·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 18, 2024

First successful synthesis of naphthocyclinones since their discovery fifty years ago

Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo develop an innovative strategy to produce β- and γ-naphthocyclinones, challenging compounds that have potential for medical and biological applications. They successfully synthesize the molecules using a retrosynthetic analysis approach, achieving yields of over 70%.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

SLU study explores the pandemic’s impact on breastfeeding practices in historically marginalized communities

A Saint Louis University study found that COVID-19 stay-at-home orders facilitated easier breastfeeding, stronger mother-child bonding, and extended breastfeeding duration for many women. However, the pandemic also presented significant barriers, including limited access to lactation support and heightened maternal stress.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateNov 18, 2024

New paradigm of quantum information technology revealed through light-matter interaction!

Researchers at DGIST have introduced a novel quantum state and mechanism for extracting and controlling quantum information using exciton and Floquet states in two-dimensional semiconductors. This discovery offers valuable insights into the exciton formation process, advancing quantum information technology.

Editorial interview in IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics on the future of optical modulators and integrated photonics

Industry and academic experts discuss the potential of new materials, configurations, and integration technologies to overcome bandwidth limitations and operational robustness issues in silicon photonic modulators. These advancements are expected to impact emerging applications such as data centers, AI, quantum information processing, ...

SourceInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 18, 2024

Scientist proposes deducing commonality from complexity to resolve global challenges

Professor LI Jinghai proposes Mesoscience, a concept exploring common principles among complex systems at mesoscales. This approach aims to identify and develop solutions for global challenges such as climate change, human health, and sustainable development goals.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·DateNov 18, 2024

Alcohol-related deaths in the US more than double from 1999 to 2020

Researchers found that alcohol-related deaths in the US surged dramatically between 1999 and 2020, with a nearly fourfold increase in those aged 25-34. The study highlights significant gender differences and regional disparities, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to combat the growing US alcohol mortality epidemic.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalThe American Journal of Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 18, 2024

Ytterbium thin-disk lasers pave the way for sensitive detection of atmospheric pollutants

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light create a novel laser system that can detect a wide variety of atmospheric compounds with minimal interference. The system's ability to target the short-wave infrared range and generate high-power, stable pulses enables unprecedented detection sensitivity and accuracy.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalAPL Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

A single cell’s siesta

Researchers found that the cell's chloroplast shrinks by 40% in bright white light, minimizing damage. The structure responsible is a network of thin filaments that can contract and expand in all directions.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 18, 2024