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Science News for November 19, 2024


Revolutionizing the world of smell and olfaction: Highlights from the 8th Digital Olfaction Society World Congress 2024

The 8th Digital Olfaction Society World Congress highlights groundbreaking advancements in digital olfaction, from smart necklaces to drones equipped with olfactory sensors. The event showcases innovative applications of scent digitization technologies, including virtual reality systems and e-nose devices for early disease detection.

Researchers develop ramanome-based metastatic assessment index to enhance cancer metastasis prediction

Researchers developed a novel Ramanome-based Metastasis Index to rapidly and accurately assess cancer cells' metastatic potential. The tool combines single-cell Raman spectra with machine learning, providing a comprehensive molecular profile of cancer cells and highlighting lipid-related peaks as key determinants.

American College of Lifestyle Medicine and U.S. Space Force announce partnership to optimize service member health through lifestyle medicine

The American College of Lifestyle Medicine has partnered with the US Space Force to provide lifestyle medicine education, training, and certification to Guardian Resilience Team members. This initiative aims to enhance Space Force service members' health and performance through evidence-based lifestyle interventions.

Genethon presents positive initial results from a phase 1/2/3 trial of its gene therapy (GNT0004) for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy at ASGCT Breakthroughs in Muscular Dystrophy in Chicago

Positive initial results from Genethon's gene therapy GNT0004 show stabilization of motor functions and improved dystrophin expression in patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The therapy is expected to be launched in pivotal trial phases in Europe and the US in Q2/2025.

More energy and more oil: photovoltaic plants and hedgerow olive groves are more productive on the same land

Researchers from the University of Cordoba developed a model to test agrivoltaic integration, finding that joint activities can lead to greater combined productivity. The study shows that photovoltaic plants and hedgerow olive groves can coexist and even benefit each other, with solar collectors generating more energy while shading cro...

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2024

Labeling cell particles with barcodes

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new CRISPR-based system to label small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) with RNA barcodes, enabling comprehensive analysis of their biogenesis and release regulators. This system allows for the simultaneous study of thousands of genes and estimation of sEV release from host cells.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2024

Researchers characterize mechanism for regulating orderly zygotic genome activation in early embryos

In Drosophila embryos, the pioneer transcription factors Zelda and GAF regulate timely gene expression. Researchers identified HIRA's interaction with dPCIF1 to control premature activation of GAF, ensuring orderly genome activation. This mechanism provides new insights into zygotic gene activation regulation.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2024

New study highlights physician perspectives on emerging anti-amyloid treatments for Alzheimer’s disease in Israel

A new Israeli study explores physician attitudes toward emerging anti-amyloid treatments for Alzheimer's disease. Key findings highlight the need for multidisciplinary collaboration to address financial and logistical barriers, emphasizing education, cost-benefit analysis, and improved insurance coverage.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 19, 2024

Seed slippage: Champati cha-cha

A team of physicists studied the unique motion of Champati seeds rolling down slopes, revealing a spread-out, then collapse-like behavior akin to rock avalanches. The research may provide valuable insights into geological flows and contribute to resolving challenges in this area.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 19, 2024

How cells get used to the familiar

Researchers found four molecular networks in ciliate and mammalian cells that exhibit hallmarks of habituation, suggesting single cells process and remember information over different time spans. This finding opens up new mysteries about how cells without brains manage complex behaviors.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2024

Astronomers discover first pairs of white dwarf and main sequence stars in clusters, shining new light on stellar evolution

The discovery provides a unique way to investigate the extreme phase of stellar evolution, bridging the gap between the earliest and final stages of binary star systems. This breakthrough could help explain cosmic events like supernova explosions and gravitational waves.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 19, 2024

Pregnant people might not be getting the nutrients they need, according to new research from Stevens

According to a recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition, over 90% of pregnant individuals are potentially failing to get enough iron, vitamin D, or vitamin E from the food they eat. Almost two-thirds were found to be getting insufficient dietary folate, a critical nutrient that helps prevent birth defects.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateNov 19, 2024

We could soon use AI to detect brain tumors

Researchers have trained AI models to distinguish brain tumors from healthy tissue using convolutional neural networks and transfer learning. The models achieved an average accuracy of 85.99% at detecting brain cancer, with the ability to generate images showing specific areas in its tumor-positive or negative classification.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBiology Methods and Protocols·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 19, 2024

Groundwater pumping drives rapid sinking in California

A new study reveals that the San Joaquin Valley in California has been sinking at an average rate of nearly an inch per year between 2006 and 2022. The researchers estimate that the land sank by over 12 inches during the four-year gap in satellite data, highlighting the urgent need for mitigation strategies.

SourceStanford University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateNov 19, 2024

The chilling sound of the Aztec death whistle

Researchers created digital reconstructions of Aztec death whistles and found they produce unique air turbulence, creating a chilling sound. Listeners perceived the whistle's sound as natural and organic, similar to human voices or screams, suggesting a symbolic association with mythological entities.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCommunications Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2024

New AEM study highlights feasibility of cranial accelerometry device for prehospital detection of large-vessel occlusion stroke

A new study published in Academic Emergency Medicine evaluates the use of a cranial accelerometry device to detect large-vessel occlusion strokes in prehospital settings. The research demonstrates that obtaining adequate recordings with this device is highly feasible, marking an important step forward in stroke management.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateNov 19, 2024

Columbia Aging Center epidemiologist co-authors new report from National Academies on using race and ethnicity in biomedical research

The National Academies report outlines nine actionable recommendations to advance the responsible use of race and ethnicity in biomedical research, including community engagement and data inclusivity. The report aims to provide a key guide for researchers considering using race and ethnicity throughout their research process.

Most Medicare beneficiaries do not compare prescription drug plans – and may be sticking with bad plans

A USC Schaeffer study found that over half of Medicare beneficiaries with stand-alone Part D plans did not switch due to lack of plan comparisons, with many unaware of how to change plans or missing out on better coverage options. This complacency allows insurers to exploit beneficiaries' inattention and boost profits.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Affairs Scholar·DateNov 19, 2024

JDR Clinical & Translational Research publishes new supplement exploring links between oral, behavioral, and systemic health

A new supplement published by JDR Clinical & Translational Research examines the connections between oral health, behavior, and overall well-being. The study reveals strong evidence for the importance of integrated healthcare systems addressing these interconnected aspects.

First American Gastroenterological Association living guideline for moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released a new clinical guideline on the pharmacological management of moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis. The guideline groups available treatments into 'efficacy buckets' to facilitate personalized treatment planning, taking into account patient risk factors and disease severity.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·DateNov 19, 2024

Building roots in glass, a bio-inspired approach to creating 3D microvascular networks using plants and fungi

Researchers at Kyushu University develop a novel technique for building complex 3D microfluidic networks using plant roots and fungal hyphae in silica nanoparticles. This bio-inspired method enables the creation of intricate biological structures, opening new opportunities for research in plant and fungal biology.

SourceKyushu University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2024

New study investigates how jetlag can disrupt our metabolism

A new study by University of Surrey and University of Aberdeen researchers found that jetlag impacts metabolism, causing reduced energy spent processing meals and changes in blood sugar and fat levels. The metabolic effects are temporary, recovering within 2-3 days, while impairment of sleep and alertness takes longer to recover.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournaliScience·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 19, 2024

How flood risk affects home values

Researchers found a 10.8% price discount in the AEP 100 flood zone and a 4.4% discount in the AEP 500 flood zone, highlighting the financial burden of flood risk on homebuyers. The study emphasizes the need for policymakers to safeguard communities and manage real estate markets as climate patterns intensify.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 19, 2024

Researchers discover new cognitive blueprint for making and breaking habits

A new framework describes the balance between automatic responses and goal-directed control in habit formation. This imbalance can lead to everyday action slips and compulsive behaviors. The research provides a 'playbook' for behavior change, including strategies like implementation intentions and clinical interventions.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 19, 2024

By exerting “crowd control” over mouse cells, scientists make progress towards engineering tissues

Researchers create system to manipulate cell behavior using 'crowd control' technique, enabling predictable patterns and structures. Cell density plays key role in guiding cellular development, offering potential for medical applications such as tissue engineering and organ regeneration.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2024

Cardiovascular drugs may reduce dementia risk

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that long-term use of common cardiovascular drugs is associated with a lower risk of dementia. The study, which analyzed data from over 880,000 people, shows that these medications can reduce dementia risk by 4-25%.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeObservational study·DateNov 19, 2024

High cardiorespiratory fitness linked to lower risk of dementia

A study of 61,214 dementia-free individuals found that high cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with better cognitive performance and a lower risk of dementia. The findings suggest that enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness could be a strategy for preventing dementia in people with a genetic predisposition.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 19, 2024

7-year study reveals plastic fragments from all over the globe are rising rapidly in the North Pacific Garbage Patch

A 7-year study found a significant increase in centimetre-sized plastic fragments in the North Pacific Garbage Patch, surpassing larger floating plastics. The research, conducted by The Ocean Cleanup, reveals an unexpected rise in mass concentration of these fragments, likely originating from decades-old plastics discarded globally.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateNov 19, 2024

Opening a new avenue in predicting mood episodes using wearable devices: A sleep and circadian rhythm data analysis model

Researchers developed a novel model predicting mood episodes using only sleep-wake pattern data from wearable devices. The study found daily changes in circadian rhythm are key predictors of mood episodes, offering new possibilities for tracking individual changes to prevent future episodes.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2024

Artificial intelligence can be used to predict river discharge and warn of potential flooding, new Concordia study shows

Researchers developed a machine-learning tool that provides accurate predictions for flood-prone areas, using historical data and weather-based predictors. The model can predict short-term river discharge with high accuracy, giving real-time data on water movement through the river.

SourceConcordia University·JournalHydrology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2024

The Wistar Institute and Cameroon researchers reveals HIV latency reversing properties in African plant

Researchers from the Wistar Institute and University of Buea have discovered HIV latency reversing properties in Croton oligandrus, an African plant used in traditional healing. The study confirms that four out of six isolated compounds reverse HIV latency in vitro, with some synergizing for improved strength.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2024

SNU Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering's Optical Engineering and Quantum Electronics Laboratory develops ultra-compact camera technology optimized for VR/AR devices

Researchers at Seoul National University's Optical Engineering and Quantum Electronics Laboratory developed an optical design technology that dramatically reduces the volume of cameras with a folded lens system utilizing metasurfaces. The new lens system achieves a thickness of 0.7mm, making it suitable for ultra-compact devices such a...

Northerners, Scots and Irish excel at detecting fake accents to guard against outsiders, Cambridge study suggests

A Cambridge study suggests that people from Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Ireland are better at detecting fake accents than those from London and the Southeast. The study found that participants were able to detect fake accents with an accuracy of around 60%, varying by region and cultural homogeneity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEvolutionary Human Sciences·DateNov 19, 2024

Coulomb focusing in attosecond angular streaking

A team of researchers found that attosecond angular streaking measurements are closely related to the statistical distribution of momentum/energy of electron wave packets generated by quantum tunneling. The Coulomb focusing effect disrupts this correspondence, revealing new insights into sub-barrier tunneling dynamics.

Breaking down bias in the NFT marketplace: Study reveals female and Black avatars sell for less—and offers solutions to promote equality

Researchers found that female CryptoPunks avatars were sold at a 37% lower price than their male counterparts, while Black CryptoPunks avatars were sold at a 31% lower price than White counterparts. Avatars with features associated with high-tech or higher education countered these disparities.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalInternational Journal of Research in Marketing·DateNov 19, 2024

Research: Fitness more important than fatness for a lower risk of premature death

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that cardiorespiratory fitness is a stronger predictor of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality than body mass index. Fit individuals across all BMI categories had statistically similar risks of death, while unfit individuals showed...

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 19, 2024

A mixed picture: E-participation in Germany`s Energiewende

A new study by RIFS researcher Jörg Radtke finds that e-participation solutions can play a key role in the implementation of the energy transition. Citizens are open towards using online tools for creative input and visualization-based planning, but require clear communication strategies to build trust.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·TypeSurvey·DateNov 19, 2024

TAMEST recognizes Lyda Hill and Lyda Hill Philanthropies with Kay Bailey Hutchison Distinguished Service Award

TAMEST has recognized Lyda Hill and Lyda Hill Philanthropies for their significant contributions to scientific research and public health efforts, particularly in Texas. The organization acknowledges the impact of their philanthropic investments in various institutions, including MD Anderson Cancer Center, Meadows Mental Health Policy ...

Neuroscientists discover how the brain slows anxious breathing

Researchers at the Salk Institute identified a specific brain circuit responsible for slowing anxious breathing, connecting the frontal cortex to the brainstem. This discovery may offer a scientific explanation for the beneficial effects of practices like yoga and mindfulness on alleviating negative emotions and could lead to the devel...

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 19, 2024

Vultures and artificial intelligence(s) as death detectors: GAIA develops a high-tech approach for wildlife research and conservation

The GAIA Initiative uses AI algorithms to classify white-backed vulture behaviors and automatically locate carcasses, providing an early warning system for environmental changes. By combining animal tag data with artificial intelligence, scientists can quickly recognize critical incidents like droughts or disease outbreaks.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 19, 2024

Impaired caregivers, bed sharing raise risk of sudden unexplained infant death in infants born with prenatal drug exposure

A new study by Nemours Children's Health researcher finds that caregivers of prenatally exposed infants are twice as likely to be impaired at the time of death. Targeted efforts to prevent SUID in these infants are needed, with clear messages delivered to parents and caregivers emphasizing safe sleep practices and substance use prevent...

SourceNemours·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateNov 19, 2024

University of Limerick, Ireland researchers develop new method of generating eco-friendly energy

Researchers at University of Limerick have developed a new method for growing organic crystals that can be used to generate eco-friendly energy through piezoelectricity. This breakthrough has the potential to replace lead-based materials in consumer electronics and reduce environmentally damaging waste.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 19, 2024

Black Britons from top backgrounds up to three times more likely to be downwardly mobile

A new study by the University of Kent reveals that Black Britons, even from affluent families, are substantially more likely to end up in working-class jobs than their White peers. The research found that Black men from privileged backgrounds are four times more likely to be downwardly mobile after education is taken into account.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalSociological Research Online·TypeSurvey·DateNov 19, 2024

Evidence that quantum computers can coordinate actions of moving devices

Researchers from the University of Kent have demonstrated that quantum information can be used to coordinate devices like drones or autonomous vehicles. The team conducted experiments using real qubits inside a quantum computer developed by IBM, showing that devices can continue to influence each other even after separation.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalNew Journal of Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2024

Eradivir’s EV25 therapeutic proven to reduce advanced-stage influenza viral loads faster, more thoroughly in preclinical studies than current therapies

EV25, a bispecific small molecule developed by Eradivir, acts faster than the current standard of care, eliminating detectable virus within 24 hours. It also recruits naturally occurring antibodies to fight the virus, reducing viral loads and protecting against lung damage.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2024

Can cells ‘learn’ like brains?

Researchers used computer simulations to explore the concept of learning in cells, finding a requirement for 'timescale separation' and potential 'memory' mechanisms. The study could deepen our understanding of how learning and memory operate at the most basic level of life.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2024