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Science News for November 25, 2024


Materials scientist Daniel Oropeza receives prestigious award to advance high-temperature 3D ceramics

Daniel Oropeza, an assistant professor at UC Santa Barbara, has been awarded a $1 million grant to research near-net-shape fabrication of high-density ceramics. His team aims to create complex geometries using a multi-material deposition system and hot pressing, which could lead to the development of new materials for extreme environme...

Mount Sinai opens the Hamilton and Amabel James Center for Artificial Intelligence and Human Health to transform health care by spearheading the AI revolution

The Hamilton and Amabel James Center for Artificial Intelligence and Human Health solidifies Mount Sinai's leadership in delivering patient care through innovative AI tools and technologies. The interdisciplinary center combines AI, data science, and genomics to revolutionize diagnosis and treatment.

Popular diabetes and obesity drugs also protect kidneys, study shows

Researchers found that GLP-1 receptor agonists reduced the risk of kidney failure by 16% and worsening of kidney function by 22%. The combined reduction in risk was 19%, showing a clear benefit on kidney protection. This study expands current knowledge about this class of drugs, highlighting their role in treating patients with chronic...

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

Peer support may lower depression, stress among cancer patients in low-resource settings

A new study suggests that a cancer peer support program called Stronger Together improved psychological outcomes, as well as overall quality of life, among patients with breast and gynecological cancers in Vietnam. The program showed promise for providing critical social support in low-resource settings.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJCO Global Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 25, 2024

Adapted nominal group technique effectively builds consensus on health care priorities for older adults

Researchers developed an adapted nominal group technique (aNGT) to efficiently build consensus among diverse stakeholders, prioritizing key domains and identifying new care indicators. The approach was effective in reaching a consensus on prioritizing symptoms, functioning, and quality of care.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 25, 2024

Crayfish map gives conservation a helping claw

The new atlas, developed by the University of Illinois and West University of Timișoara, offers a comprehensive database of 427 crayfish taxa and over 100,000 observation records. This resource will facilitate informed conservation decisions and support efforts to mitigate the impact of invasive species on freshwater ecosystems.

Wildfire smoke exposure and incident dementia

A cohort study found that long-term exposure to wildfire and fine particulate matter was associated with dementia diagnoses. The study suggests that reducing wildfire PM2.5 exposure could decrease dementia diagnoses and address health disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateNov 25, 2024

User language distorts ChatGPT information on armed conflicts

A study found that ChatGPT provides higher fatality numbers when asked in Arabic compared to questions in Hebrew, highlighting the impact of user language on information dissemination. The researchers believe this has profound social implications, as it can shape perceptions of conflict and fuel biases.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Peace Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

UW-led research links wildfire smoke exposure with increased dementia risk

A recent study led by the University of Washington found that higher long-term exposure to wildfire smoke is associated with a significant increase in the odds of developing dementia. The researchers analyzed health records of 1.2 million Southern California residents and found that exposure to wildfire PM2.5 increased the risk of deme...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 25, 2024

Expanding HPV vaccination to all adults aged 27-45 years unlikely to be cost-effective or efficient for HPV-related cancer prevention

A modeling study found that HPV vaccination programs for adults aged 27-45 years are more costly and less effective than vaccinating younger people. Vaccinating subgroups at higher risk of HPV infection may improve cost-effectiveness, but overall, it's unlikely to be efficient for cancer prevention.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateNov 25, 2024

Music by homegrown artists much less likely to feature in Australian Top 100 charts since arrival of digital streaming

A new study found that local and non-Anglo artist representation in Australian charts has declined since the rise of digital streaming. Indigenous music from Australia and New Zealand saw a significant decline in singles chart share, from 16.6% to 2.5%, while albums chart share also decreased.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalInternational Journal of Music Business Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

3D snapshots unveil the intricate dance of RNA folding

Scientists have captured 3D snapshots of individual RNA nanoparticles in motion, showcasing the dynamic and intricate folding process. This breakthrough uses advanced electron microscopy to study RNA's flexibility, enabling new insights into its structure and potential applications in molecular medicine.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Spin-powered crystals: A breakthrough in clean hydrogen production

Researchers have developed a game-changing catalyst using topological chiral crystals to manipulate electron spin, accelerating the water splitting process and improving hydrogen production efficiency. The breakthrough could make renewable energy technology more viable, bringing us closer to a clean energy future.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Hot water best for sanitizing in-shell pecans, sanitizers prevent cross-contamination

In-shell pecans are susceptible to pathogens due to soil contact with wildlife and livestock. A recent study found that hot water treatment significantly reduced Shiga toxin-producing E. coli populations on pecans, regardless of treatment time, and prevented cross-contamination.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalJournal of Food Protection·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Brigham researchers use fitness tracker data and machine learning to detect bipolar disorder mood swings

Researchers used fitness tracker data and machine learning to detect bipolar disorder mood swings with 80.1% accuracy for depression and 89.1% accuracy for mania. The study's findings move the field toward personalized algorithms suitable for all patients, regardless of compliance or device access.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalActa Psychiatrica Scandinavica·TypeObservational study·DateNov 25, 2024

Research team demonstrated nonlinear compton scattering with a multi-petawatt laser, mimicking astrophysical phenomena and producing ultra-bright gamma rays

A team of researchers successfully demonstrated nonlinear Compton scattering using a multi-petawatt laser, producing ultra-bright gamma rays. The achievement offers new insights into high-energy electron-photon interactions without traditional particle accelerators.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

The next evolution of AI begins with ours

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have devised a potential solution to the paradox of animal innate abilities using artificial intelligence. The genomic bottleneck algorithm allows for compression levels unseen in AI, enabling faster runtimes and potentially leading to more evolved AI systems.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2024

Clinical trial finds that adding the chemotherapy pill temozolomide to radiation therapy improves survival in adult patients with a slow-growing type of brain tumor

A randomized phase 3 trial found that adding temozolomide to radiation therapy improves long-term survival for adult patients with low-grade gliomas. The 10-year survival rate was 70% with combined treatment, compared to 47% with radiation alone.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·JournalJournal of Neuro-Oncology·DateNov 25, 2024

New AI tool generates realistic satellite images of future flooding

A new AI tool generates realistic satellite images of future flooding, which can help communities visualize and prepare for approaching storms. The method combines a generative artificial intelligence model with a physics-based flood model, producing more accurate and realistic images than an AI-only approach.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateNov 25, 2024

New imaging study finds evidence that emotion regulation is not always the most effective strategy to mitigate suicidal ideation

Researchers found that individuals with depression who engage in reflexive emotion regulation experience increased suicidal thoughts during daily stressful events. In contrast, adaptive responses to stress were observed when participants used reappraisal strategy.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

Why the powerful are more likely to cheat

A new study finds that those who feel powerful in their relationships are less dependent on others, think more highly of themselves, and are more confident that they are desirable. This can lead to a higher interest in alternative partners and a greater willingness to engage in infidelity.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Political opinions influence our choice of chocolate

Research at Linköping University shows that people distance themselves from neutral products if they are liked by those with opposing political views. This phenomenon affects choices even when irrelevant to politics. The studies also found that people unconsciously behave this way to maintain a consistent self-image.

SourceLinköping University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·TypeSurvey·DateNov 25, 2024

Using sunlight to recycle black plastics

Researchers have developed a method to convert black polystyrene waste into reusable starting materials using sunlight or white LEDs. The technique involves adding carbon black and exposing the mixture to high-intensity light, resulting in efficient breakdown of polymer bonds.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateNov 25, 2024

Protecting nature can safeguard cities from floods

A new UBC-led study reveals that preserving key natural ecosystems across Canada can significantly reduce rainwater runoff and protect homes and livelihoods. The research identifies 201,000 square kilometres of watersheds as critical for flood prevention, supporting wildlife while reducing reliance on costly infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEcosystem Services·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

Algorithms can keep drowsy motorists alert and help them avert road accidents, scientists say

Researchers have developed an algorithm-based scheme to help drivers avert drowsiness, which contributes to thousands of fatal incidents and injuries every year. The system uses EEG signal detection and machine learning algorithms to achieve high accuracy and reduce training time.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalBiomedical Signal Processing and Control·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 25, 2024

Single-visit first-trimester care with point-of-care ultrasound cuts emergency visits by 81% for non-miscarrying patients

A new approach to first trimester obstetrical care combining point-of-care ultrasound and immediate multidisciplinary care has reduced emergency visits by 81%. This integration allows for timely diagnosis of abnormal pregnancies, improved education and support for all patients, including those experiencing miscarriage.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 25, 2024

Building a better path to recovery for OUD

A new study led by Thomas Jefferson University researchers highlights critical healthcare gaps that hinder long-term recovery for people living with OUD in Philadelphia. The study identifies challenges such as lengthy and restrictive assessment processes, inadequate operating hours, and lack of sufficient withdrawal management as barri...

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment·DateNov 25, 2024

Revolutionary bioengineering research may transform type 1 diabetes care, pave way for tackling cancer and autoimmune disease

Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina and University of Florida developed a novel approach to treat type 1 diabetes using tagged beta cell transplant with localized immune protection. The study, published in Cell Reports, shows promise for creating an off-the-shelf solution for T1D treatment.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 25, 2024

Impact of climate change on water resources will increase price tag to decarbonize the grid

A new study warns that climate change's impact on water resources will significantly increase the cost of achieving zero-emission grids by 2050. The required investments in generation and transmission infrastructure are expected to be massive, with up to 139 gigawatts of power capacity needed in the Western United States.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 25, 2024

A new clock to structure sleep

Researchers identified a novel role for the locus coeruleus in facilitating transition between NREM and REM sleep states while maintaining unconscious vigilance. Stress disrupts its functions, negatively impacting sleep quality. The study provides crucial insights into sleep disorders and could lead to improved treatments.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Chromosomal chaos promotes therapy resistance in leukemia cells and opens up new treatment approaches

Researchers analyzed chromosomal chaos in leukemia cells and found that genetic and non-genetic factors drive functional heterogeneity. They identified therapeutic targets and alternatives for resistant subclones, providing a model for early identification of leukemia stem cells.

Home testing kits and coordinated outreach substantially improve colorectal cancer screening rates

A new study shows that mailing at-home fecal immunochemical testing kits and providing coordinated follow-up led to a tripling of screening completion rates compared to usual care. The intervention increased screening rates by 30% within six months and 34.6% by 12 months.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 25, 2024

Squeeze it!

Researchers at European XFEL and DESY develop self-chirping method to produce high-power attosecond hard X-ray pulses without reducing electron bunch charge. This enables non-destructive measurements at the atomic level and opens new avenues for studying matter at the atomic scale.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Study finds suburban school districts diversified in 20 years, but urban districts saw more racial isolation

Research from the University of Kansas found that suburban school districts are becoming more diverse, while urban districts are experiencing increased racial isolation. This study analyzed census data and geographic mapping technology to compare demographic changes in schools across the country.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalAERA Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

Managing forests with smart technologies

Researchers in Lithuania have developed Forest 4.0, a smart forest data processing model that enables real-time monitoring of forest conditions, sustainable resource accounting, and transparent governance. The system uses IoT sensors and AI algorithms to detect tree diseases, illegal logging, and predict changes in forest ecosystems.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Forests and Global Change·DateNov 25, 2024

Unmasking the voices of experience in healthcare studies

Researchers at Flinders University advocate for a formal process to acknowledge the valuable contributions of those with lived experience in healthcare research. The study highlights the importance of recognizing their value and increasing visibility, with over 70% of contributors wanting public recognition.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·TypeSurvey·DateNov 25, 2024

Study reveals impact of trauma on health care professionals in Israel following 2023 terror attack

A study of 129 healthcare professionals in Israel following the 2023 terror attack found high levels of burnout and low well-being among primary care clinicians treating traumatized evacuees. The researchers emphasized the critical importance of prioritizing healthcare personnel's mental health to ensure quality care for trauma survivors.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 25, 2024

One in 20 people in Canada skip doses, don’t fill prescriptions because of cost

A new study found that 5% of Canadian respondents skipped or reduced dosages due to cost-related issues. The research highlights the burden of prescription costs on vulnerable populations, including females, bisexual, and Indigenous individuals. The authors suggest that national pharmacare plans can help address these disparities.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

Researchers uncover what makes large numbers of “squishy” grains start flowing

Scientists have clarified the conditions under which large numbers of 'squishy' grains, similar to those found in biological tissues, undergo a yielding transition from solid-like to fluid-like behavior. The findings provide insights into the roles of mechanical and biochemical processes in biological systems.

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Sub-Saharan Africa leads global HIV decline: Progress made but UNAIDS 2030 goals hang in balance, new IHME study finds

A new IHME study reveals significant progress in the global fight against HIV/AIDS, with sub-Saharan Africa leading the way in cutting new HIV infections and deaths. However, the world is not on track to meet UNAIDS 2030 targets, with a quarter of people living with HIV not receiving treatment.

Cannabis, maybe, for attention problems

A recent review paper suggests that cannabis affects the endocannabinoid system in various ways, influencing attention, hyperactivity, and anxiety in individuals with ADHD. However, the picture is complicated by the complexity of cannabis products and legal restrictions on marijuana use.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalDevelopmental Psychobiology·DateNov 25, 2024

Brighter and more efficient LEDs that don’t droop

A team of researchers at Nagoya University has developed a way to make LEDs brighter while maintaining their efficiency. By tilting the InGaN layers and cutting the wafer into different orientations, they have found that LEDs with lower polarization but in the same direction as standard LEDs show greater efficiency at higher power.

SourceNagoya University·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·DateNov 25, 2024

A study by the LARS-IIAMA UPV group detects methane emissions in the palm oil industry in Indonesia, Malaysia and Colombia

A team of researchers from the LARS-IIAMA group used satellite technology to detect methane emissions in the palm oil industry in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Colombia. The study confirms that palm oil processing is a significant source of methane emissions, mainly due to anaerobic ponds.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

Online health care reviews turned negative following COVID pandemic

A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that online health care reviews on Yelp have not fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis shows a significant decline in positive reviews, particularly among rural facilities and those serving areas with higher proportions of Black or Hisp...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2024

A molecular trap for exotic metals promises improved diagnostics and faster drug development

Scientists at IOCB Prague have developed a new compound that securely binds metal elements, known as lanthanides, inside molecules of medical drugs. This breakthrough discovery, called 'ClickZip', improves diagnostics and accelerates drug development by making pharmaceuticals more stable.

Scientists construct first complete energy spectrum of solar high-energy protons in Martian space

Researchers constructed the first complete proton energy spectrum observed during a solar event in Martian space, providing critical data for radiation protection in future Mars missions. The study successfully calculated the radiation dose caused by the event and validated the accuracy of the Tianwen-1 MEPA data.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 25, 2024

New study reveals the explosive secret of the squirting cucumber

A team of biologists and mathematicians from the University of Oxford and Manchester have solved the mystery of the squirting cucumber's explosive seed dispersal. The study used a combination of experiments, high-speed videography, image analysis, and mathematical modeling to reveal the key components of the plant's dispersal strategy.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2024

Vanderbilt authors find evidence that the hunger hormone leptin can direct neural development in a leptin receptor–independent manner

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have found that the hunger hormone leptin can direct neural development in a leptin receptor-independent manner. This discovery suggests a novel role for leptin in specifying the development of neural circuits involved in autonomic regulation and food intake.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2024

Ants actively combat plant diseases in the ‘AntFarm’ project

Researchers have found that wood ants can reduce plant diseases like scab and apple rot by up to 50% due to the presence of internal antibiotic substances. The AntFarm project aims to cultivate wood ants on a large scale for relocation in organic apple orchards, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMicrobial Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Fighting aging by staying compact

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine discovered that keeping the nucleolus small can delay aging in yeast cells. This finding could lead to new longevity treatments and may also reveal a mortality timer that determines how long a cell has left before it dies.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Aging·DateNov 25, 2024

Novel discovery unveils the gene secret of rice length

Researchers have discovered the RGL2 gene's role in regulating rice grain length through cell proliferation, providing new genetic resources for improving yield. The study found that overexpressing RGL2 increased grain length and single-plant yield by promoting cell growth, offering a promising strategy for molecular design breeding.

Replacing animal products with plant-based foods leads to 92% reduction in hot flashes in postmenopausal women, finds new study

A new study finds that replacing meat and dairy products with plant-based foods leads to a 92% reduction in hot flashes in postmenopausal women. The study also shows weight loss in both healthy and unhealthy plant-based diets, suggesting even 'unhealthy' plant-based foods can be beneficial.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalBMC Women s Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 25, 2024

Study reveals new way to unlock blood-brain barrier, potentially opening doors to treat brain and nerve diseases

Researchers developed a novel approach to deliver therapeutics into the brain, overcoming the blood-brain barrier. The BCC platform successfully reduced harmful gene activity in models of ALS and Alzheimer's disease, offering new possibilities for treating neurological and psychiatric diseases.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Primary care settings face barriers to screening for early detection of cognitive impairment

The report highlights the importance of addressing the rising incidence of cognitive impairment as the population ages, particularly with new treatments for early Alzheimer's disease now available. Developing cognitive care plans, especially for vulnerable populations, is crucial to improve patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 25, 2024

Viking colonizers of Iceland and nearby Faroe Islands had very different origins, study finds

A recent study found that Viking colonizers of the Faroe Islands and Iceland came from different Scandinavian populations. The researchers analyzed genetic samples from 139 men and compared them to samples from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Ireland, revealing a 'founder effect' that persists in today's male populations.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Antibiotics initiated for suspected community-acquired pneumonia even when chest radiography results are negative

A study of 259 adult patients found that many general practitioners prescribe antibiotics despite negative chest X-rays, highlighting a gap between guidelines and practice. The study aimed to explore the relationship between chest radiography results and antibiotic initiation in community-acquired pneumonia management.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 25, 2024