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Science News Archive November 2024 - Page 15


Page 15 of 44

New model sheds light on groundwater declines by linking irrigation decisions and groundwater use

A new analysis finds that sustainable rates of groundwater withdrawal were surpassed 20 years prior to declining groundwater levels being generally recognized. Limiting groundwater pumping rates by nearly half can stabilize groundwater conditions, eliminating drying up of non-irrigation wells and stabilizing environmental flows.

SourceOregon State University·JournalWater Resources Research·DateNov 20, 2024

Two million ex-smokers currently vape in England

A new study found that approximately 2.2 million people who have stopped smoking for more than a year in England currently vape, with the majority using e-cigarettes as a quit-smoking aid. The prevalence of vaping among ex-smokers has increased sharply since 2021, particularly among younger age groups and heavier drinkers.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBMC Medicine·DateNov 20, 2024

Visual experience in a Pompeian domestic space: analysis using virtual reality-based eye tracking and GIS

Researchers analyzed the House of the Greek Epigrams in Pompeii using VR-based eye tracking and GIS. They found that varying light conditions and dynamic movement affected participants' relationship with artworks. The study reveals a complex visual palimpsest made up of moving views, interconnected journeys, and comings and goings.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalAmerican Journal of Archaeology·DateNov 20, 2024

Extracellular vesicles may be the key to developing safer and more effective therapies for inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers have reviewed the therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells in treating inflammatory bowel disease. The study highlights the immunomodulatory, pro-regenerative, and anti-apoptotic properties of these vesicles, which may offer a safer alternative to conventional therapies.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 20, 2024

Mental health issues are "prevalent and troubling" among forcibly displaced children and young people, per scoping review which finds PTSD, anxiety and depression to be most common conditions

A scoping review reveals that forcibly displaced children and young people experience high rates of mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to support their mental well-being.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Mental Health·DateNov 20, 2024

Physicists develop new method to visualize magnetic nanostructures with high resolution

Researchers at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg have developed a new method to visualize magnetic nanostructures with a resolution of around 70 nanometres. This breakthrough enables the analysis of spintronic components and has significant implications for energy-efficient storage technologies.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2024

Do area-wide social and environmental factors affect individuals’ risk of cognitive impairment?

Research identified community-level factors that may increase individuals' risk of cognitive impairment. Higher neighborhood disadvantage, air pollution, homicide rates, and less greenspace were associated with elevated odds of mild cognitive impairment. Completing schooling in a Southern US state also linked to increased risk.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 20, 2024

Turning carbon emissions into methane fuel

Chemists at Ohio State University have developed a novel way to capture and convert carbon dioxide into methane, utilizing nickel-based catalysts and reducing the need for massive amounts of energy. This breakthrough could pave the way for more efficient climate mitigation technologies and help close the carbon cycle.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2024

The mystery of the secretly sexual lichens

A new study reveals that a type of lichen, Lepraria, has genes for sexual reproduction, defying decades of scientific assumption. The discovery opens up new avenues for research into the mysterious reproductive habits of these unique organisms.

SourceField Museum·JournalBMC Genomics·DateNov 20, 2024

Friendly social behaviors are contagious for chimpanzees

Researchers found chimpanzees of all ages displayed contagion of grooming and playful behaviors, with younger chimps more susceptible to play contagion. This behavioral contagion may help strengthen social bonds by reinforcing friendly behaviors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2024

Seeing memories form

Researchers studied mossy fiber synapses in the hippocampus, a crucial region for memory formation and spatial navigation. They discovered that specific proteins play key roles in encoding and processing distinguishing features to trigger memory retrieval.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 20, 2024

NEJM study: For chronic subdural hematomas, blocking the artery supplying the brain covering reduced re-operations threefold

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that blocking the artery supplying the brain covering reduced re-operations for chronic subdural hematomas by threefold. The EMBOLISE trial followed 400 participants and showed a significant reduction in recurrence rates with a simple, minimally invasive procedure.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 20, 2024

Phenotypic and epigenetic clocks for aging and mortality

This systematic review analyzes 33 biological clocks used for aging and mortality quantification, categorizing them into epigenetic and phenotypic clocks. Epigenetic clocks demonstrate precision in estimating chronological age through DNA methylation, while phenotypic clocks predict mortality using easily measurable clinical variables.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 20, 2024

UNC-Chapel Hill researchers discover the youngest transiting planet: A revelation that challenges the current understanding of how planets are formed

The discovery of planet IRAS 04125+2902 b challenges current understanding of planet formation, with a 3-million-year-old age that's roughly equivalent to a two-week-old baby. The research provides new insights into early planetary system formation and sets a new benchmark for young planets.

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.