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Science News for November 26, 2024


NRL researchers named LUCI fellows

Seven NRL researchers received LUCI fellowships for innovative projects in materials science, including Adam Dunkelberger's work on anisotropic materials and John Lyons' research on infrared tin-germanium alloys. The fellowships support collaborative efforts between academia and the DoD to advance basic research priorities.

Interdisciplinary collaboration uses machine learning to uncover unknown patterns in genome organization

University of Toronto researchers developed a new computational method to study genome organization, uncovering previously unknown patterns in human chromosomes. The method uses machine learning to analyze high-throughput chromosome conformation capture data and sheds light on chromosomal re-organization leading to disease development.

New imaging platform developed by Rice researchers revolutionizes 3D visualization of cellular structures

Researchers at Rice University developed soTILT3D, an innovative imaging platform that enables fast and precise 3D imaging of multiple cellular structures while controlling the extracellular environment. The platform improves upon conventional fluorescence microscopy by reducing background fluorescence and increasing imaging speed.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2024

Predicting the weather: New meteorology estimation method aids building efficiency

A new meteorology estimation method developed at Osaka Metropolitan University improves the accuracy of building energy simulations by considering interdependent factors such as temperature, solar radiation, and humidity. The generated data was found to be almost identical to the original dataset, proving its accuracy.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 26, 2024

Novel flavonoid fluorescent materials developed for real-time visualization of multi-component solvents and temperature

Researchers developed a novel fluorescent dye, AFL, that changes color and intensity in response to solvent polarity and temperature. This breakthrough creates a potential temperature sensor, as demonstrated by the AFL@TA composite film, showing a clear linear relationship between temperature and fluorescence intensity.

Cancers grow uniformly throughout their mass

Researchers discovered that cancer grows uniformly throughout its mass, with every region equally active and potentially harboring aggressive mutations. This finding challenges the traditional 'two-speed' entity model of tumors, where rapidly dividing cells on the surface and slower activity in the core were thought to exist.

Astronomers may have discovered the answer to a mysterious stellar event

Researchers from the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research have discovered a possible explanation for a rare and mysterious stellar event. By conducting a meta-analysis of existing data, they were able to identify key factors contributing to this phenomenon, shedding light on its underlying mechanisms.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 26, 2024

University of Miami, partners awarded $16 million NOAA grant for groundbreaking coral restoration project

The University of Miami, partnering institutions, receive a $16 million NOAA grant to enhance the resilience of Florida's restored coral reefs. The team aims to implement novel interventions and leverage innovative technology to increase heat tolerance in corals and scale up new approaches.

A matter of time

Researchers at ISTA used miniature 2D organs and rubbery silicone molds to study morphogen signaling dynamics during spinal cord development. The study found that BMP morphogen signaling gradients emerge quickly, then fade away, only to reappear again, shedding light on the complex process of tissue development.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Study details how cancer cells fend off starvation and death from chemotherapy

Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered two ways cancer cells evade chemotherapy's effects: by slowing down pyrimidine synthesis and activating anti-apoptotic proteins. This better understanding could lead to more effective combination therapies and diagnostic tests, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Maritime pine seeds remember temperature conditions

Researchers found that maritime pine seeds retain memories of temperature conditions experienced during embryonic development, influencing gene expression and potentially affecting tree growth. The study suggests epigenetic mechanisms could play a crucial role in helping trees adapt to environmental stressors and climate change.

How long ring fingers can point to a love of alcohol

A new study by Swansea University researchers found a relationship between high alcohol consumption and long ring fingers compared to index fingers. The study used a sample of 258 university students and revealed that high prenatal testosterone relative to oestrogen is linked to high alcohol consumption in men, but not women.

SourceSwansea University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2024

New tool reveals how malaria sticks to red blood vessels

A new gene-editing tool enables precise study of variable proteins that allow malaria parasites to stick to red blood cells and evade the immune system. The study introduces a platform to explore how malaria causes disease and identifies new proteins involved in the cytoadhesion process.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 26, 2024

New route based on lattice disorder developed to improve electrocaloric effect

A research team has developed a new route to improve the electrocaloric effect in BaTiO3-based systems by introducing lattice disorder. The study found that this approach resulted in an impressive temperature drop of about 0.80 K using an electric field, with potential applications for cooling devices.

How catalysts secretly lose their stability

Researchers found that COFs' catalytic activity comes from oxidic nanoparticles formed when cobalt ions detach, not the framework itself. The nanoparticles provide a suitable reaction environment and hold the catalysts in place, enabling efficient catalysis even under harsh conditions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAdvanced Science·DateNov 26, 2024

USTC finds γ rays drive the conversion of aqueous-phase methane to complex organic molecules including glycine

A research group at USTC found that γ rays can facilitate the conversion of aqueous-phase methane to diverse products, including hydrocarbons, oxygenated compounds, and amino acids like glycine. The reaction rate is contingent on free radical concentrations and does not significantly influence temperature.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Shape-shifting antenna poised to transform communications

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory have created a shape-shifting antenna that can change its shape based on temperature, transforming communications capabilities. The technology has transformative potential in military, scientific and commercial applications, enabling dynamic RF band adaptability.

SourceJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Engineering Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Pharmacokinetics comparison of aumolertinib, Osimertinib, gefitinib and their major metabolites in mouse model and NSCLC patients

This study compares the pharmacokinetics of aumolertinib, osimertinib, and gefitinib in mouse models and NSCLC patients. Aumolertinib exhibits better pharmacokinetic profiles, with higher concentrations in plasma and tissues, making it a promising candidate for EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC treatment.

To catch financial rats, a better mousetrap

Researchers propose a new and more effective way to gauge earnings quality, identifying companies that may be using accounting tricks to cover up problems. The Earnings Quality Score (EQSCORE) model has been shown to outperform existing approaches in predicting fraud, providing valuable insights for investors and regulators.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalContemporary Accounting Research·DateNov 26, 2024

Improved catalyst turns harmful greenhouse gases into cleaner fuels, chemical feedstocks

Researchers at ORNL have developed a catalyst that can convert two polluting greenhouse gases into valuable building blocks for cleaner fuels and feedstocks. The catalyst, made of zeolite material, is resistant to degradation at high temperatures and has been shown to provide outstanding performance with extremely slow deactivation.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

USTC develops high-entropy-alloy catalyst to boost propane dehydrogenation efficiency

A USTC research team has developed a Pt-based high-entropy-alloy catalyst that significantly enhances the efficiency of propane dehydrogenation. The catalyst achieved propylene formation rates of 256 and 390 mol C₃H₆ gₚₜ⁻¹ h⁻¹ at 550 °C and 600 °C, respectively, with high selectivity for propylene in a long-term stability test.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 26, 2024

Alcohol use and antiobesity medication treatment

A cohort study found that nearly half of participants who consumed alcohol at baseline decreased their alcohol use after initiating anti-obesity medication treatment. The medications, such as naltrexone and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), may have properties that lead to reduced cravings for alcohol.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 26, 2024

Irregular sleep-wake cycle linked to heightened risk of major cardiovascular events

Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that irregular sleep-wake cycles are associated with a heightened risk of major cardiovascular events. People with regular sleep patterns were 26% less likely to experience these events than those with irregular patterns, even if they met recommended sleep quotas.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2024

Heterogeneous photocatalyst achieves record-breaking performance for CO2 conversion

A new microwave-assisted synthesis route has improved the performance of a coordination polymer photocatalyst, achieving a record-breaking value for CO2-to-formate conversion with a nearly ten-fold increase in apparent quantum yield. The improvements are attributed to well-crystallized material and surface area increases.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Team unlocks new insights on pulsar signals

A study published in The Astrophysical Journal reveals that pulsar signals change as they move through the interstellar medium, highlighting a need for updates to current ISM density models. The research found that models incorporating galactic structures tend to better fit the data, but predictions of newly discovered pulsars were worse.

SourceSETI Institute·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateNov 26, 2024

Moffitt study shows how cancer cell death may harm the immune system and promote tumor growth

Researchers found that a type of cancer cell death called necroptosis can release a molecule called interleukin-1α, weakening the immune response and allowing tumors to grow faster. By blocking this molecule, cancer treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy may become more effective.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Cell·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2024

The lasting influence of experiences

Researchers find that experiences can create lasting mental imprints affecting future well-being and decision-making. Memorable consumption choices are influenced by both immediate utility and the ongoing utility derived from memory.

SourceBocconi University·JournalGames and Economic Behavior·DateNov 26, 2024

Simple secret to living a longer life

A new study led by Griffith University researchers found that increasing physical activity could add up to five years to an individual's life, with the most active quarter having a 73% lower risk of death. Even modest increases in movement could lead to significant life-extension benefits.

SourceGriffith University·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 26, 2024

New study reveals genetic drivers of early onset type 2 diabetes in South Asians

A new study from Queen Mary University of London has identified the genetic drivers of early onset type 2 diabetes in South Asians, revealing a strong link to lower insulin production and unfavorable body fat distribution. The research also sheds light on treatment responses, highlighting the need for precision medicine approaches.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2024

Photodynamic therapy with annatto colorant found to be effective against bad breath

A study published in PLOS ONE found that antimicrobial photodynamic therapy using annatto colorant was effective in treating halitosis in mouth-breathing children. The researchers used a LED light source to target the annatto, which generated reactive oxygen species that killed bacteria on the tongue, leading to improved oral health.

Wild boars could be a potential source of hepatitis E transmission to humans in the Barcelona metropolitan area

A study by University of Barcelona researchers found a close molecular similarity between wild boar and human hepatitis E virus strains. The researchers recommend avoiding contact with wild boars, washing hands after contact, and taking precautions in areas frequented by pets to prevent transmission.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Understanding the thermoelectric transport properties of organic semiconductors through the perspective of polarons

Researchers investigated the thermoelectric transport properties of organic semiconductors using a polaronic charge conduction model. They linked experimental observations to build a unified picture of thermoelectric transport physics in organic semiconductors, showcasing promising applications like thermoelectric radiation sensing.

SourceAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·JournalAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·TypeNews article·DateNov 26, 2024

Using antibiotics alone to treat children with appendicitis is a cost-effective and safe alternative to surgery, study shows

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that using antibiotics alone to treat children with uncomplicated appendicitis is a cost-effective and safe alternative to surgery. This approach resulted in lower costs and similar quality-of-life scores compared to upfront surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateNov 26, 2024

New era in amphibian biology

Researchers at ISTA and Columbia University developed a technique using adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) to track a frog's nervous system throughout its metamorphosis, shedding light on the neural circuit and behavior changes during this transition. The breakthrough can help usher amphibian neurobiology into a new era.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Moving ‘hotspot’ created world’s longest straight underwater mountain belt

Researchers at Curtin University found that the Ninetyeast Ridge, the Earth's longest straight underwater mountain chain, formed as a massive volcanic chain between 83 and 43 million years ago. High-precision dating revealed that the hotspot responsible for the ridge moved by several hundred kilometres within the mantle over time.

SourceCurtin University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2024

Sports betting and financial market data show how people misinterpret new information in predictable ways

Researchers found a pattern in how people interpret new information, overreacting to weak signals and underreacting to strong ones. This bias holds true across various settings, including financial markets, according to a study analyzing millions of betting transactions and prices on options contracts.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 26, 2024

Engineering hypoallergenic cats

A team of scientists used CRISPR technology to investigate the role of Fel d 1, a gene that triggers cat allergies. By analyzing genetic diversity and expression levels, they found that cats genetically modified to lack CH2 were healthy, suggesting that the allergen may not be essential for feline health.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 26, 2024

World’s oldest lizard wins fossil fight

A fossilized skeleton found in Bristol has been identified as Cryptovaranoides microlanius, a tiny lizard with sharp teeth, and dated to the Triassic period. The discovery shifts the origin of the Squamata group back by 35 million years, confirming its relationship to modern anguimorphs.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 26, 2024

Brain test shows that crabs process pain

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have conducted a groundbreaking study on shore crabs, revealing that they possess pain receptors and neural reactions in response to painful stimuli. The findings provide conclusive evidence for the existence of pain in crustaceans, highlighting the need for more humane treatment methods.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

New issue of Advances in Dental Research explores the role of women in dental, clinical, and translational research

The new issue of Advances in Dental Research explores the impact of sex biology on women's health, highlighting disparities in dental disease prevalence. The meeting emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address these issues, including access to care and preventive measures.

New framework enhances remote sensing image fusion with frequency-independent feature learning

A new framework for remote sensing image fusion was developed, using frequency decoupled domain-independent feature learning. The approach analyzes domain-independent information distribution in image amplitude and phase components to improve image fusion and quality.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalIEEE Transactions on Circuits and Systems for Video Technology·DateNov 26, 2024

Study unravels another piece of the puzzle in how cancer cells may be targeted by the immune system

Researchers have identified a form of Vitamin B6 bound to MR1 as a means of engaging tumour-reactive immune cells, suggesting that altered cellular metabolism/metabolite levels may distinguish cancer cells. Understanding the breadth of MR1-mediated immunity could illuminate routes for therapeutic intervention with broad utility.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 26, 2024

ISS National Lab publication highlights groundbreaking physical science research in space

Researchers on the ISS National Lab have leveraged microgravity to study fundamental physical phenomena, such as heat transfer, combustion, and fluid dynamics. These discoveries hold potential for advances in pharmaceuticals, energy production, materials manufacturing, and more.

SourceInternational Space Station U.S. National Laboratory·JournalGravitational and Space Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 26, 2024

Under-ice species at risk as Arctic warms

Under-ice species in the Arctic are facing significant threats as sea ice melts at a faster rate than anywhere else on Earth. Researchers studying microbial organisms in four environments found that the under-ice mix of species was the least diverse, composed mainly of specialist plankton and microbes adapted to harsh conditions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 26, 2024

Delay and pay: Tipping point costs quadruple after waiting

A new study finds that reversing climate change effects quickly climbs nearly fourfold soon after a tipping point is crossed. The cost of intervention also increases steeply if waiting occurs, with the degree of needed action rising over time. Researchers have quantified these costs for the first time.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 26, 2024

It might be wrecking the climate, but CO₂ is actually good for your cells

A team of University of Utah chemists discovered that bicarbonate in CO₂ helps balance pH levels and alters the Fenton reaction, producing milder radicals. This finding challenges how cell damage has been studied for decades and may reshape our understanding of oxidative stress in diseases like cancer or aging.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Two-way water transfers can ensure reliability, save money for urban and agricultural users during drought in Western U.S., new study shows

A new study proposes a solution to water scarcity during droughts by coordinating agricultural-to-urban leasing during dry periods and urban-to-agricultural leasing during wet periods. This arrangement benefits both urban and agricultural water users, reducing financial impacts.

Bringing genomics into public policy requires greater awareness, professional training, and investment

The WHO's Technical Advisory Group on Genomics published an article outlining challenges and actions to promote the use of genomics in public health. The group aims to increase awareness and provide technical guidance to accelerate access to genetic technologies, enabling preventive measures and targeted treatment for various diseases.

Inside the ‘swat team’ – how insects react to virtual reality gaming

Researchers from Flinders University and international partners developed a VR platform to observe insect behavior, including hoverflies and crabs. The study provides insights into how these tiny creatures interact with virtual reality environments, paving the way for future research on animal behavior and decision-making.

SourceFlinders University·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Gold beats platinum for chemo drugs in new lab study

A new gold-based compound has been developed that slows tumour growth in animals by 82%, targeting cancers more selectively than standard chemotherapy drugs. It also blocks cancer cells' ability to form new blood vessels, a promising approach to reducing toxic side effects.

SourceRMIT University·JournalEuropean Journal of Medicinal Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Quantifying disease impact and overcoming practical treatment barriers for primary progressive aphasia

Primary progressive aphasia is a rare form of dementia that affects language skills, with significant implications for patients' quality of life. Researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine have developed new methods to measure its impact on daily living and demonstrate the feasibility of international telemedicine interventions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

When club teammates become World Cup rivals

A new study examines the hidden tension when coworkers compete on behalf of rival organizations, using soccer players as a case study. The researchers found that teammates who competed against each other on opposing national teams reduced collaboration within their shared clubs, passing the ball to each other around 11% less often in t...

SourceBocconi University·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateNov 26, 2024

Air fryers confirmed as least polluting cooking method

A new study by the University of Birmingham has found that air fryers emit significantly lower levels of particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than other cooking methods. The researchers measured pollutant levels in a well-controlled research kitchen and found that improving ventilation can help reduce indoor pollution.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalIndoor Air·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024