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Science News for November 5, 2024


The American Pediatric Society selects Dr. Maria Trent as the Recipient of the 2025 David G. Nichols Health Equity Award

The American Pediatric Society recognizes Dr. Maria Trent's outstanding contributions to advancing child and adolescent health, well-being, and equity through quality improvement, advocacy, practice, or research. Her work has forged many collaborations on various facets of adolescent sexual health across multiple disciplines.

Two English journals hosted by the CAS Institute of Atmospheric Physics lead the pack in international media impact rankings of journals based in China

The Institute of Atmospheric Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences' two English journals, Advances in Atmospheric Sciences and Advances in Oceanic and Atmospheric Science Letters, achieved notable rankings for their international reach in the 2024 China English-Language Scientific Journal Overseas Media Influence Report. AAS ranke...

Education modules build student and instructor skills

The Macrosystems EDDIE modules have been effective in building student and instructor quantitative literacy and data science skills in ecological forecasting, reaching over 35,000 students globally. The modules aim to introduce students to core concepts of forecasting and complement educators' work teaching ecological concepts.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBioScience·DateNov 5, 2024

UNC-Chapel Hill researchers develop revolutionary heart model: A breakthrough with potential to transform cardiac care and research

Researchers at UNC-Chapel Hill have developed an innovative computer model of blood flow in the human heart that captures normal heart function and predicts responses to different levels of blood flow. The model has potential applications in medical device design, personalized therapy, and cardiac digital twins.

Moderate expression of CD39 in GPC3-CAR-T cells shows high efficacy against hepatocellular carcinoma

A recent study has identified the pivotal role of CD39 expression in modulating CAR-T cell function. Moderate CD39 expression levels displayed superior antitumor activity compared to those with high or low CD39 levels. The combination strategy of mdivi-1 and CD39 knockdown significantly enhanced the antitumor response.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024

The Arctic is the only ocean that has not seen a drop in legacy persistent organic pollutants decades after global regulations, says new Concordia study

A new study published in Science Advances found that the Arctic Ocean has seen a sharp rise in legacy persistent organic pollutants (POPs) decades after global regulations were put in place. POPs, which are toxic and bioaccumulative, pose potential dangers to animals and people in the fragile ecosystem's food web.

SourceConcordia University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 5, 2024

How one UIC student is proposing to advance science of superconductivity

A UIC graduate student has proposed three promising new designs for superconducting materials that could achieve high-temperature superconductivity at room temperature. The designs were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and demonstrate properties needed for very high-temperature superconductivity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2024

Students’ challenges in general upper secondary education should be better acknowledged – school burnout can be prevented with the right measures

A recent study found that exhaustion, cynicism, and inadequacy are interconnected dimensions of school burnout. Students who were emotionally engaged in their studies experienced less exhaustion and feelings of inadequacy. Effective support measures should be targeted to prevent burnout in general upper secondary education.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScandinavian Journal of Educational Research·DateNov 5, 2024

Integrating data from different experimental approaches into one model is challenging – this study presents a community-based, full-scale in silico model of the rat hippocampal CA1 region that integrates diverse experimental data from synapse to network

A full-scale in silico model of the rat hippocampal CA1 region has been developed, integrating diverse experimental data from synapse to network. This community-based approach overcomes challenges in integrating data from different experimental approaches.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024

New study uncovers evolutionary roots of conspicuous consumption

A new study led by Dr. Jim Swaffield challenges the assumption that conspicuous consumption is irrational, instead showing it's driven by an interaction between environmental conditions and one's evolved biology. The researchers found that financial and physical safety conditions can affect the desire for signalling products.

SourceAthabasca University·JournalBehavioral Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024

A review of advanced field weakening control strategies of PMSMs

Researchers have summarized advanced field weakening (FW) control strategies for permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs), including offline calculation methods, online computational methods, and model predictive control (MPC)-related methods. The studies highlight the importance of balancing computational difficulty with control ro...

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 5, 2024

Review of thermal design of SiC power module for motor drive in electrical vehicle application

The paper reviews thermal design of SiC power modules for motor drives in electric vehicles, focusing on optimizing irregular Pinfin structures and collaborative design with DC bus capacitors and motors. Irregular Pinfin arrangements can enhance heat transfer efficiency and reduce pressure drops compared to regular layouts.

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 5, 2024

Leveraging machine learning to find promising compositions for sodium-ion batteries

A team of scientists leveraged machine learning to find promising compositions for sodium-ion batteries, achieving exceptional energy density. The study trained a model on a database of 100 samples to predict the optimal ratio of elements needed to balance properties like operating voltage and capacity retention.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024

What’s chubby enough for lower disability after stroke?

A recent study published in Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation found that slightly overweight stroke survivors (BMI 22.1-27.5 kg/m²) have a lower risk of sustaining disabilities compared to those with normal weight. The research suggests that a higher-than-normal BMI may be beneficial for recovering from a stroke with less disability.

SourceKobe University·JournalTopics in Stroke Rehabilitation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 5, 2024

The heaviest element ever chemically studied — Experiments at GSI/FAIR succeed in determining properties of moscovium and nihonium

Researchers have determined the chemical properties of moscovium and nihonium, which are more reactive than flerovium. The study uses a newly developed setup for chemical separation and detection to observe the very short-lived moscovium-288 and its daughter nihonium-284.

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalFrontiers in Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024

Firms that read more perform better

A new study by the Complexity Science Hub finds that firms with higher levels of information consumption outperform their peers financially and are more innovative. The research reveals an 'economy of scale' in news consumption, where larger firms read a greater number of unique pieces of news.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 5, 2024

Synthesis of a cost-effective, high-durability non-noble metal alloy anode as an alternative to iridium oxide anodes

Researchers developed a high-entropy alloy anode composed of nine non-precious metal elements, demonstrating remarkable durability and low production cost. The new anode outperforms conventional iridium oxide anodes in organic hydride electrolytic synthesis, potentially advancing large-scale hydrogen supply chain development.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalChemSusChem·DateNov 5, 2024

Ancient immune defense system plays an unexpected role in cancer, MSK researchers find

Recent studies by MSK researchers show that the innate immune system helps maintain genome stability during DNA replication, and chronic activation can contribute to tumor development. The findings also suggest that problems with a protein complex called Mre11 can create an environment where cancer is more likely to occur.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 5, 2024

In search of the perfect materials for fusion reactors

Researchers used computational methods to screen potential plasma-facing materials for fusion reactors, considering factors like thermal resistance and neutron bombardment. A shortlist of 21 materials was identified, including tungsten, diamond, and tantalum nitride, which showed promise for divertor applications.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·JournalPRX Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 5, 2024

Epigenetic silencing of BEND4, a novel DNA damage repair gene, is a synthetic lethal marker for ATM inhibitor in pancreatic cancer

Researchers discovered epigenetic silencing of BEND4 as a synthetic lethal marker for ATM inhibitors in pancreatic cancer. This approach targets the tumor suppressor gene, enhancing treatment efficacy. The study found significant association between BEND4 methylation and poor tumor differentiation.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024

Microbes in mouth reflect lifestyle choices

A recent study published in the journal Microbiome found that lifestyle factors, such as diet and smoking habits, significantly impact the composition of beneficial bacteria in the mouth. The research team analyzed saliva samples from individuals representing different subsistence strategies in Nepal and discovered a correlation betwee...

SourcePenn State·JournalMicrobiome·DateNov 5, 2024

A mother’s health problems pose a risk to her children

A recent study found that children born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of lower birth weight, shorter stature, and smaller head circumference. The researchers believe that the placenta's inability to meet the baby's demands due to PCOS-related hormonal imbalances may be the cause.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 5, 2024

How hypoxia helps cancer spread

Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine identified 16 genes that breast cancer cells use to survive in the bloodstream, including MUC1, which is already in clinical trials. The research showed that hypoxic cells are able to migrate to higher oxygen levels and form metastasis in the body, leading to a worse prognosis.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 5, 2024

Scanning synaptic receptors: A game-changer for understanding psychiatric disorders

Researchers developed a method to visualize AMPA receptors using PET scans, revealing differences in density and distribution between healthy subjects and those with psychiatric disorders. This discovery may lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorder.

SourceYCU Advanced Medical Research Center·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateNov 5, 2024

New study challenges social media’s mental health impact

A new Curtin University study found that time spent on social media has a negligible effect on mental health indicators such as depression, anxiety, and stress. The research suggests that the relationship between social media use and mental health is complex, with some platforms having different effects on users.

SourceCurtin University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 5, 2024

Three pathways to achieve global climate and sustainable development goals

A new study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and IIASA scientists suggests that there are three promising routes to make significant progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. The study's results show that all three pathways are far more effective than current 'business as usual' scen...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateNov 5, 2024

Deaf male mosquitoes don’t mate

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara created deaf mosquitoes and found that males had no interest in mating, even when left with females for days. The absence of a single gene, trpVa, is responsible for this effect, which could have major implications for managing disease transmission by controlling mosquito populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2024

Gut microbes play a key role in regulating stress responsiveness throughout the day, research finds

A pioneering study has uncovered the vital role that gut microbiota plays in regulating stress responses by interacting with the body's circadian rhythms. The findings open the door for developing new microbial-based therapies to help individuals better manage stress-related mental health conditions.

SourceUniversity College Cork·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 5, 2024

Modeling the system for hybrid renewable energy using highly efficient converters and generator

The paper proposes a novel method for modeling hybrid renewable energy systems using high-efficiency converters and generators. The research results show that the front-end converter is suitable for isolating sources from loads and enhancing DC bus voltage, with simple control algorithms and reduced switching losses.

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 5, 2024

Kagome breaks the rules at record breaking temperatures

Scientists at the Paul Scherrer Institute have found a quantum phenomenon known as time-reversal symmetry breaking occurring at the surface of the Kagome superconductor RbV₃Sb₅ at temperatures up to 175 K. This discovery sets a new record for the temperature at which this phenomenon is observed among Kagome systems.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024

Foam cells in brain tumours

Glioblastoma is a deadly form of brain cancer affecting 500 Swedes annually. Researchers have identified 'foam cells' that aid tumour growth by releasing signal substances and promoting blood vessel formation.

SourceLund University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 5, 2024

Groundbreaking study provides new evidence of when Earth was slushy

A groundbreaking study led by Virginia Tech provides the first direct geochemical evidence of a massive, rapid melting period on Earth after the last global ice age. The researchers analyzed lithium isotopes in carbonate rocks formed during this time and found strong evidence for freshwater meltwater interacting with the ocean.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2024