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Science News for November 4, 2024


Kessler Foundation’s Silvana Lopes Costa, PhD, honored with Women in Neurodegenerative Disease Rehabilitation Science Award from ACRM

Silvana Lopes Costa, PhD, of Kessler Foundation has received the Women in Neurodegenerative Disease Rehabilitation Science Award for her groundbreaking research on multiple sclerosis and cognitive assessment. Her work aims to improve quality of life among individuals with neurological conditions through innovative rehabilitation science.

Multi-layered site in Tajikistan's Zeravshan Valley uncovered, offering new insights into human expansion

Archaeologists have uncovered a multi-layered archaeological site in the Zeravshan Valley, central Tajikistan, revealing crucial evidence of early human migration and development. The site, known as Soii Havzak, dates back to various periods between 20,000 and 150,000 years ago and offers valuable clues to ancient climate and environment.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalAntiquity·TypeObservational study·DateNov 4, 2024

How many trees does it take to cool a city?

A new study provides a tool for urban planners to set science-based city-wide greening goals, estimating that cities can reduce land surface temperatures by up to 0.23°C with increased tree canopy cover. The research found that the cooling efficiency of urban trees increases at larger scales, but at a slower rate.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2024

Noninvasive choroidal vessel analysis via deep learning: A new approach to choroidal optical coherence tomography angiography

Researchers developed a novel noninvasive choroidal angiography method using deep learning, enabling layer-wise visualization and evaluation of choroidal vessels. The approach employs an advanced segmentation model to handle varying quality of OCT B-scans, offering a promising tool for clinical applications.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·DateNov 4, 2024

People are more agile than they think

Researchers found that people systematically underestimate their wrist mobility in three out of four hand movements, with an average underestimation of ten degrees. This distortion is believed to protect against injury by preventing overshooting and allowing for small corrections during movement.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCommunications Psychology·DateNov 4, 2024

Q&A: After developing a better way to count homelessness, UW researchers discuss how more accurate data can help providers and people

Researchers developed a method that taps into social networks to generate a more representative sample, providing a more accurate estimate of the total unhoused population. The new approach aims to improve understanding of homelessness in America by capturing demographic data and needs.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 4, 2024

New study reveals blood sugar control is a key factor in slowing brain aging, highlighting the benefits of the Mediterranean diet

Researchers found that improved blood sugar control significantly impacts brain health, slowing down age-related brain atrophy by up to 50%. The Green Mediterranean Diet, rich in polyphenols, shows promise in supporting metabolic and brain health.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 4, 2024

KAIST proposes AI training method that will drastically shorten time for complex quantum mechanical calculations​

Researchers developed a novel AI approach to predict atomic-level chemical bonding information in 3D space, bypassing traditional supercomputer simulations. This methodology accelerates calculations by learning chemical bonding information using neural network algorithms from computer vision.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 4, 2024

Midwakh pipe smoking posing ‘significant’ health problems in UAE, scientists find

A recent study by the University of Sharjah has found that midwakh pipe smoking poses significant health risks in the UAE, particularly among young people. The research showed that midwakh users often develop early signs of nicotine dependence and report various clinical issues, including elevated carbon monoxide and cotinine levels.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalEuropean Journal of Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateNov 4, 2024

Genome of the aurochs decoded

The study reveals large genomic differences between European aurochs, North Asian aurochs, and South Asian ancestor, with evidence of human intentional feeding and targeted domestication. The genome of the central European aurochs was fully decoded for the first time, providing insights into the history of wild cattle in Europe and Asia.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateNov 4, 2024

Scientists tackle farm nutrient pollution with sustainable, affordable designer biochar pellets

A new type of biochar pellet has been developed to remove phosphorus from farm drainage water, reducing pollution and costs. The pellets have a significantly higher phosphorus-binding capacity than traditional materials, making them an efficient solution for farmers seeking to reduce nutrient losses.

November issues of APA journals feature research on substance use disorders, suicide prevention, peer-run approaches, and more

The November issues of APA journals focus on research related to substance use disorders, including a special issue on the topic. The American Psychiatric Association has published several studies and guidelines on these topics, providing valuable insights for mental health professionals.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 4, 2024

Space: A new frontier for exploring stem cell therapy

Researchers found that microgravity can strengthen the regenerative potential of cells, leading to improved growth and function. This discovery has potential clinical applications for treating age-related conditions such as stroke, dementia, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature·DateNov 4, 2024

High levels of omega-3, omega-6 may protect against cancer

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids were linked to lower rates of various cancers. The research, which analyzed data from over 250,000 people, suggests that increasing these essential fatty acids through diet or supplements may help reduce cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateNov 4, 2024

New research shows affiliation-based hiring can have benefits and pitfalls, depending on the proximal and distal ties

A study published in Strategic Management Journal found that young firms perform better when hiring founders' proximal employment ties, but less so when hiring schoolmates. Hires from distal ties, such as those studying a different field than the founders, are more beneficial to the firm, especially at later stages.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 4, 2024

Teenage hormonal shift surprises scientists – opposite impacts on kidney injury

Researchers found that female sex hormones may increase susceptibility to kidney injury during puberty, contradicting the protective effects seen in adulthood. The study suggests that developmental changes driven by the hormonal surge in puberty may override the benefits of female sex hormones later in life.

SourceInstitute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University·JournalKidney International·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024

Origami-inspired architecture

A multidisciplinary team of engineers and architects applied origami techniques to create living buildings that respond to environmental factors. The researchers combined human design creativity with computational intelligence to increase the effectiveness of designs for environmentally responsive building technologies.

The changing 'history' of a global ice sheet

A computer modeling study found that glacial isostatic adjustment caused downward movements in the eastern US, while upward movements occurred in eastern Canada, contributing to relative sea-level rise. The research will help generate maps for aquifer management and inform decisions on sea-level rise impacts.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Solid Earth·DateNov 4, 2024

The secrets of baseball's magic mud

A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science has confirmed that baseball's 'magic mud' works, providing the right mixture for spreading, gripping, and stickiness. The study also highlights the potential for natural materials like the mud to be used as sustainable lubricants.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024

Influence of tool corner radius on chip geometrical characteristics of machining Zr-based bulk metallic glass

Researchers investigated the effect of tool corner radius on chip formation in Zr-based bulk metallic glass (BMG) machining. The study found that increasing the corner radius leads to an increase in serrated frequency and secondary shear bands within individual sections, affecting surface quality.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Manufacturing Science and Technology·DateNov 4, 2024

Survey finds continued declines in HIV clinician workforce

The survey found that the number of US clinicians available to provide HIV prevention and treatment is shrinking, with 10.5% of current clinicians reporting they would leave HIV care in the next five years. Younger clinicians and those from certain regions are more likely to continue providing HIV care.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateNov 4, 2024

Deep-sea corals are home to previously unknown bacteria with extremely small genomes

Researchers have discovered two previously unknown bacterial species in deep-sea corals from the Gulf of Mexico. These bacteria have extremely reduced genomes and lack the ability to break down carbohydrates, surviving on amino acids instead. The discovery provides insights into the unique adaptations of deep-sea organisms.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateNov 4, 2024

Medicaid funding for addiction treatment hasn’t curbed overdose deaths

A new study by Oregon Health & Science University researchers found that Medicaid waivers for addiction treatment have not led to increased treatment or reduced nonfatal overdoses in 17 states. The authors suggest that while the waivers may be necessary, they are insufficient to address the national opioid epidemic.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 4, 2024

The high cost of complexity

A new study led by Arizona State University researcher Michael Lynch explores the substantial energy demands required to maintain and evolve multicellular life. Multicellular organisms require a tenfold increase in energy compared to protists, highlighting how respiration and metabolic processes are crucial for advanced life forms.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024

Lying, sitting or all-fours position?

Researchers found that women who chose their birthing position voluntarily were more satisfied with the birth experience. Around three quarters of mothers gave birth lying on their side or back, but up to 40% stated they didn't choose their position. Women who had autonomy over their birthing position reported higher satisfaction rates.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalArchives of Gynecology·DateNov 4, 2024

Toddlers understand concept of possibility

Two- and three-year-old children distinguish between improbable and impossible events, demonstrating an understanding of possibility. They learn significantly better after experiencing impossible occurrences, which drives them to search for explanations.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2024

Unlocking next-gen chip efficiency: UVA researchers confirm thermal insights for tiny circuits

Researchers at the University of Virginia have confirmed a key principle governing heat flow in thin metal films, paving the way for advancements in technology and more efficient devices. The study validated Matthiessen's rule in ultra-thin copper films, providing a blueprint to mitigate thermal bottlenecks.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024

With the help of AI, UC Berkeley researchers confirm Hollywood is getting more diverse

Researchers used facial recognition technology to track actor screen time in over 2,300 films, confirming a shift towards greater diversity. The study found that individual film casts are becoming more diverse, with non-leading roles exhibiting more variety than leading ones.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 4, 2024

Virginia Tech researchers find menthol restrictions may drive smokers to healthier alternatives

Researchers at Virginia Tech's Fralin Biomedical Research Institute found that restricting menthol cigarettes led to an increase in the purchase of nicotine replacement options. This shift is likely due to the fact that menthol flavors are perceived as more appealing, making alternative products a practical substitute.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024

New research identifies ways to protect neurons from the negative effect of high-fat diet on multiple sclerosis progression

Researchers found that specific enzymes in neurons mediate the toxicity of diets rich in palm oil, leading to mitochondrial damage and neurodegeneration. Inactivating these enzymes provides neuroprotection, suggesting a potential pathway for slowing diet-induced symptom severity in MS patients.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalGlia·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024

Remote medical interpreting is a double-edged sword in healthcare communication

A recent study from the University of Surrey found that remote medical interpreting (RMI) can compromise the quality of communication in healthcare settings. Interpreters reported mixed experiences with technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for careful consideration of interpreting methods based on the nature o...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPerspectives·TypeObservational study·DateNov 4, 2024

Synthetic genes engineered to mimic how cells build tissues and structures

Scientists have engineered synthetic genes that can assemble into complex biomaterials like nanoscale tubes, using a modular approach similar to building furniture. This breakthrough enables the creation of distinct materials that can spontaneously develop from a finite set of parts by rewiring the timing of molecular instructions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024

Federal government may be overpaying for veterans’ health care in Medicare Advantage plans

A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggests that the federal government may be paying for veteran healthcare twice due to high-veteran Medicare Advantage plans. The research found that nearly one in five veterans enrolled in these plans did not incur any Medicare services, highlighting concerns about inefficient s...

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 4, 2024

An old drug with new tricks

A new study by MUSC researchers reveals how cancer cells develop resistance to hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug repurposed for cancer therapy. The findings suggest that targeting specific metabolic and export pathways can prevent resistance, opening the door for novel combination therapies.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Cycle·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024

Decadal climate patterns reveal new insights into tropical cyclone formation and ENSO link

A new study reveals how decadal-scale climate fluctuations impact tropical cyclone frequency in response to ENSO events. The FGOALS-g3 large ensemble model shows improved performance in capturing the ENSO-affected cyclone activity, highlighting the importance of accounting for decadal variability.

Megan Huisingh-Scheetz, MD, MPH, of the University of Chicago recognized with AFAR’s Terrie Fox Wetle Rising Star Award in Health Services and Aging Research

Dr. Megan Huisingh-Scheetz, a researcher at the University of Chicago, has received the AFAR Terrie Fox Wetle Rising Star Award for her groundbreaking work on frailty science and technology-based solutions to support older adults. Her research focuses on harnessing health services research to fuel frailty implementation and innovation.

Scientists determine why some patients don’t respond well to wet macular degeneration treatment, show how new experimental drug can bridge gap

Researchers have identified a new experimental drug that can bridge the gap between patients with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and existing treatments. The drug, 32-134D, decreases levels of a key protein involved in AMD, leading to improved vision outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2024

Small reductions to meat production in wealthier countries may help fight climate change, new analysis concludes

Researchers suggest that small cutbacks in higher-income countries could remove 125 billion tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, allowing forests to regrow and sequester more CO2. This approach would require cutting global cattle herds by less than half, while still maintaining livestock grazing on native grasslands.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2024

Hospital COVID-19 burden and adverse event rates

A cohort study found that hospital COVID-19 burden was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital adverse effects among patients with and without COVID-19. The results highlight the importance of hospitals having greater resilience and surge capacity to prevent declines in patient safety during surges in demand.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 4, 2024

Beta cells: New insights into the structure, interactions and neuronal networking of primary cilia

Research reveals the structural features of beta cell primary cilia, including microtubule organization and interactions with neighboring cells. The findings suggest that primary cilia play a crucial role in signal transmission and networking of beta cells with other islet cells, potentially linking to type 2 diabetes pathogenesis.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 4, 2024

Scientists create a world-first 3D cell model to help develop treatments for devastating lip injuries

Researchers successfully immortalized lip cells, enabling the development of clinically relevant lab-based models to test treatments for lip injuries and infections. The 3D cell model was tested with Candida albicans yeast, showing promising results for wound healing and infection studies.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024