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Science News for October 15, 2024


Increase in air pollution corresponds with more patients at the hospital emergency department

Research finds that increases in air pollution levels correspond with a higher number of patients visiting the hospital emergency department, particularly for cases of trauma, breathing difficulties, and skin conditions. The study suggests that heavy traffic is directly responsible for increased trauma cases and indirectly contributes ...

Despite national efforts, cancer clinical trials are becoming less diverse, study finds

A study by Boston University School of Medicine found that cancer clinical trials in head and neck cancer are becoming less racially and ethnically diverse over time. The situation has worsened in the last 10 years, with only 7-12% of participants being Black or Hispanic compared to 58% in some local trials.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalHead & Neck·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 15, 2024

New study: Digital helpers create more trust

A new study found that interacting with virtual agents designed to resemble people with a migration background can increase trust in the police. The study showed that virtual agents are an effective tool for positive personal interaction with authorities, and their use could be a cost-effective solution for police forces.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Machine learning analysis sheds light on who benefits from protected bike lanes

Researchers use machine learning to analyze optimal bike lane placement in Toronto, balancing accessibility for all with overall efficiency. Key findings include a trade-off between equity and utility, with essential routes like Bloor West's bike lanes serving neighbourhoods far from their endpoints.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalJournal of Transport Geography·DateOct 15, 2024

Canopy structure regulates autumn phenology by mediating microclimate in temperate forests: Study

A study revealed that canopy structure significantly influences local-scale variations in autumn phenology by mediating microclimate conditions. Complex canopies delay leaf senescence through reduced light availability and temperature buffering. The findings improve prediction accuracy for autumn phenology models.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 15, 2024

NTU Singapore scientists apply ancient construction methods to help fabricate modern microparticles

Researchers use tongue and groove technique inspired by ancient East Asian wooden structures to create advanced ceramic microparticles with unprecedented complexity and precision. These particles can be used in various applications across microelectronics, aerospace, energy, and medical engineering.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Around 40% of postmenopausal hormone positive breast cancers linked to excess body fat

Research suggests that up to 42% of postmenopausal hormone-positive breast cancer cases may be linked to excess body fat, a proportion significantly higher than previously estimated using the widely used measure of BMI. The study found that a validated measure of body fat called CUN-BAE yielded more accurate results.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeCase study·DateOct 15, 2024

Election officials can boost voter trust in delayed results with early communication

A study from the University of California - San Diego found that early communication from election officials can reduce voter distrust in delayed results. When voters are informed in advance that counting ballots takes time and security measures are in place, their trust remains steady despite delays. This proactive message can help ma...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Arthropods dominate plant litter decomposition in drylands

A study published in eLife reveals that larger arthropods like woodlice and beetles play a crucial role in leaf litter decomposition across diverse habitats and seasons. Decomposition rates are influenced by climate, leaf quality, and decomposer abundance, with macrofauna dominating decomposition in hot, dry regions.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateOct 15, 2024

New research suggests: To get patients to accept medical AI, remind them of human biases

A study from Lehigh University and Seattle University found that making patients aware of biases in human healthcare decisions increases receptiveness to AI recommendations. By highlighting the limitations of human judgment, healthcare providers can create a more balanced relationship between patients and emerging technologies.

SourceLehigh University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Scientists identify key protein in the inflammatory pathway driving fatty liver disease

Researchers have discovered a promising new target to combat fatty liver disease, a chronic and progressive condition that triggers inflammation. A protein called Rbpj plays a critical role in the Notch signalling pathway, which controls the conversion of monocytes into inflammatory macrophages.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

New research reveals how large-scale adoption of electric vehicles can improve air quality and human health

A new study suggests that large-scale adoption of electric vehicles can lead to significant population-level health benefits. The research team used computer simulations to show that aggressive electrification of the US vehicle fleet, coupled with an ambitious rollout of renewable electricity generation, could result in health benefits...

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2024

NIH announces winners of prize competition to improve postpartum maternal health and health equity through innovative diagnostics

The National Institutes of Health has announced the winners of the RADx Tech for Maternal Health Challenge, an $8 million prize competition to develop innovative diagnostics for postpartum maternal health. Six finalists won grand prizes of $525,000 each, and two runner-up teams won prizes of $300,000 each.

Training medical AI with knowledge, not shortcuts

Researchers develop Knowledge-enhanced Bottlenecks (KnoBo) method to emulate human physicians' education, resulting in more accurate and interpretable AI models for medical image recognition. KnoBo-based models outperform existing best-in-class models on accuracy and robustness, especially in handling confounded data.

Study explores how traumatic brain injury (TBI) may be linked to Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found TBI increases hyperphosphorylated tau, astro- and microgliosis, synaptic dysfunction and cognitive impairments linked to developing Alzheimer’s. BAG3 overexpression ameliorates tau hyperphosphorylation, synaptic dysfunction and cognitive deficits through the enhancement of the autophagy-lysosome pathway.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Educational psychologists can play a part in fighting TikTok mental health and neurodiversity misinformation

A new study highlights the need for educational psychologists to engage with TikTok to address self-diagnosis of mental health and neurodiversity conditions. The platform's vast amount of inaccurate content can lead to misunderstandings and inaccurate self-assessment, emphasizing the importance of raising accurate content.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEducational Psychology in Practice·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 15, 2024

Novel app tracks travel-related illnesses

A new app has tracked travel-related illnesses globally, showing that travelers experience health issues more often than expected. The Illness Tracking in Travellers (ITIT) app recorded gastrointestinal symptoms most frequently among Asian travelers and respiratory diseases in Europe.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalBMJ Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 15, 2024

A new apparatus for analyzing partial coherence in integrated photonic networks

A new device has been developed to analyze and control partial coherence in multimode spatial light fields, utilizing integrated photonics platforms and arrays of reconfigurable Mach-Zehnder interferometers. This technology can enhance applications in advanced imaging systems, environmental sensing, and optical communications.

Speedier and more effective treatment of serious illnesses thanks to scientists from IOCB Prague

Researchers from IOCB Prague have created new-generation prodrug activators that can enhance the effectiveness of anti-cancer therapies by targeting malignant tumours more precisely. These compounds allow for faster release of drugs in the body, increasing the utilization of administered doses.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Accelerated three-year medical school students perform as well as peers in traditional four-year programs

A new study by NYU Langone Health found that graduates of an accelerated three-year MD program performed equally well on tests of skill and knowledge as their peers who followed a traditional four-year program. The study showed that students in the accelerated program scored comparably on metrics taken during medical school and residen...

Enhanced pollutant photodegradation activity of graphitic carbon nitride on via bismuth oxyhalide graphene hybridization and the mechanism study

Researchers have developed a novel photocatalyst by combining g-C3N4 with Bi4O5Br2 and graphene, resulting in efficient degradation of pollutants. The CN/BOB-16 heterostructure exhibited superior performance, surpassing existing benchmarks, and confirmed the key role of Z-type heterojunctions in generating active species.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Study busts myths about cause of gout

A genome-wide association study found that inherited genetics is a key factor in why some people develop gout, while others don't. The research identified new targets for preventing gout attacks and hopes to lead to improved treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 15, 2024

Reconfigurable simultaneous lightwave information and power transfer system with MIMO configuration

The study introduces a reconfigurable simultaneous lightwave information and power transfer (SLIPT) system using a MIMO-based configuration, addressing existing OWC systems' limitations. The system achieves high-speed communication and efficient energy harvesting, enabling autonomous IoT devices in harsh environments.

Fighting the opioid epidemic: AI and optimization model leads to more accessible, equitable treatment resource distribution

A new study utilizes AI and optimization to identify socioeconomically equitable solutions for addressing opioid use disorder, aiming to reduce overdose deaths and improve access to treatment. The approach considers state-level data and socially vulnerable populations, leading to a greater reduction in overdose deaths and treatment gaps.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·TypeObservational study·DateOct 15, 2024

Fearful memories of others seen in mouse brain

Researchers found that the hippocampal CA2 region helps mice distinguish between safe and threatening social interactions, with implications for understanding social anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. The study suggests targeting this brain region could aid in diagnosing or treating disorders linked to a fear of others.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Scientists unveils key role of “selfish DNA” in early human development

Researchers found that transposable elements, known as LINE-1, play a critical role in regulating early human development. They help organize the DNA in the cell's nucleus and ensure embryonic cells progress normally through early stages. This discovery challenges previous views of these 'selfish DNA' elements.

SourceLunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Highly-stabilized and selective inhibitor for cancer-causing enzyme revealed

Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have developed a highly selective inhibitor for Matrix Metallopeptidase 7 (MMP7), an enzyme crucial for cancer spread and progression. The novel peptide D'20 demonstrates remarkable stability and selectivity, targeting MMP7 while leaving similar enzymes unaffected.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Political polarization and trust

Researchers identified ways in which partisans mistrust and inaccurately perceive their opponents, as well as ineffective interventions to combat misinformation. A Perspective proposes redesigning digital media platforms to combat polarization, with tools like generative AI to promote consensus across ideological divides.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateOct 15, 2024

Election delays and voter trust

A survey of nearly 10,000 Americans found that election delays cause distrust in the electoral process. Reassuring voters before polls close about normal delays can prevent distrust from taking root.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateOct 15, 2024

Research initiative successfully combats covid-19 vaccine disparities

A groundbreaking initiative in Prince George's County, Maryland, has successfully combated COVID-19 vaccine disparities by leveraging community health workers to promote health literacy and vaccine equity. The Health Literacy Enhancement and Advancement Program (Health LEAP) reached over 14,800 residents, particularly Black and Hispani...

SourceKennedy Krieger Institute·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·DateOct 15, 2024

The beneficial effects of fermented black garlic extract on prostate cancer are evaluated

Researchers found that fermented black garlic extract reduced tumor aggressiveness parameters, including cell proliferation, without affecting normal prostate cells. The extract altered key signaling pathways related to inflammation, suggesting its potential as a dietary supplement to prevent or slow down prostate cancer progression.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalNutrients·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

New temperatures in two thirds of key tropical forest

A recent study found that two-thirds of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in tropical forests are experiencing new temperature conditions. KBAs identify critical habitats for species and their ecosystems. The researchers assessed 30 years of temperature data below the forest canopy, revealing that 66% of KBAs have transitioned to new

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalConservation Letters·DateOct 15, 2024

Cracking the genomic code

New research from Sharon Torigoe at Lewis & Clark College confirms the importance of low-affinity binding sites for Klf4 gene enhancers in naive-state pluripotent stem cells. This discovery advances scientists' knowledge of gene expression mechanisms and has implications for regenerative medicine and understanding human disease.

SourceLewis & Clark College·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

William T. Grant Foundation grant to Wayne State University to study impact of mixed-income neighborhood initiatives on Black youth

The Wayne State University College of Education is conducting a three-year project to examine the impact of mixed-income neighborhood initiatives on educational inequality for Black low-income youth. The research team will investigate how HUD's Choice Neighborhoods Initiative in Detroit's Corktown neighborhood improves social cohesion ...

The trees of Miami’s future

A new study suggests that Miami's native trees may not survive in the coming decades due to global warming, but tropical species can thrive and provide shade. The research recommends planting trees from the Caribbean region, such as black olive and gumbo-limbo trees, to mitigate the heat island effect and absorb carbon dioxide.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 15, 2024

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers develop cat's eye-inspired vision system for autonomous robotics

Researchers at GIST developed a cat's eye-inspired vision system that filters out unnecessary light and improves visibility in low-light conditions. The system promises to elevate the precision of drones, security robots, and self-driving vehicles, enabling them to navigate intricate environments with unparalleled accuracy.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Honey bees in demand: New contract strategies to support pollination services

A new study explores clauses in pollination contracts that could make them more appealing to beekeepers, including pesticide protection and cover crop options. Beekeepers valued these features, particularly those protecting against pesticide exposure, with discounts ranging from $6 to $8 per colony.

Farmer ants’ wearable bacteria

A study on attine ants reveals that beneficial bacteria live on the surface of their exoskeletons, which nourish these bacteria. The researchers found that these bacteria, including Pseudonocardia, are thought to have initially been gut symbionts and became cuticular symbionts around 20 million years ago.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateOct 15, 2024

A new chapter in cancer treatment: Innovative strategies and technologies of miRNA

Researchers have discovered innovative strategies and technologies related to miRNA, a type of non-coding RNA that can target more than 60% of human protein-coding genes. The study found that miRNA can be used as a biomarker for cancer diagnosis and as a therapeutic molecule with broad applications in cancer treatment.

Continuous monitoring of fatigue in factory workers

Researchers developed a system to continuously monitor factory workers for signs of physical fatigue, using wearable sensors and machine learning. The system uses data from heart rate, skin temperature, and locomotor patterns to predict fatigue levels in real-time, with universal trends identified across individual variations.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateOct 15, 2024

Enhanced wavelength conversion to advance quantum information networks

Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University develop a novel method for broadband frequency conversion using X-cut thin film lithium niobate, achieving a bandwidth of up to 13 nanometers. This breakthrough enables on-chip tunable frequency conversion, opening the door to enhanced quantum light sources and larger capacity multiplexing.

SMART researchers pioneer novel method to enhance effectiveness of MSC therapy for cartilage repair

Researchers developed a novel method to enhance the efficacy of MSC-based therapy for articular cartilage repair by adding ascorbic acid during MSC expansion. The addition improved chondrogenic differentiation, reduced cell heterogeneity, and showed a robust shift in metabolic profile.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

New test improves diagnosis of allergies

A new test mimics allergic reactions in a test tube, showing higher diagnostic accuracy than standard tests for peanut allergy and potentially other allergies. The Hoxb8 Mast Cell Activation Test (Hoxb8 MAT) has been shown to have an exceptionally high diagnostic accuracy of 95% and leads to fewer false negative results.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalAllergy·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 15, 2024

New bacteria-based therapy shows promise for fighting cancer

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a novel method to culture antitumor bacteria using porous scaffolds, enhancing their anticancer properties and improving safety in animal testing. The approach resulted in improved survival rates in mice with breast cancer, including drug-resistant cases.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateOct 15, 2024

The flirting paradox: Why the attention your partner receives from others is liable to diminish your desire for them

A recent Reichman University study explores how attention one partner receives from others affects sexual desire, commitment to the relationship, and the inclination to ward off competitors. The findings show that when participants observed others showing interest in their partner, they experienced decreased desire for their partner.

SourceReichman University·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Researchers reveal breakthrough in technology that helps hearing-impaired individuals hear through their fingers significant improvements in auditory spatial perception through innovative tactile technology

Researchers developed a tactile technology that delivers feedback to represent external spatial positions and movement, leading to near-normal accuracy in localization tasks. The technology combines with auditory input to simplify the localization task and improve quality of life for millions worldwide.

SourceReichman University·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Differences in the effectiveness of nonalcoholic beverage provision in reducing alcohol consumption depending on the degree of problem drinking

Providing nonalcoholic beverages significantly reduces alcohol consumption in individuals with moderate to severe drinking problems, as indicated by AUDIT scores ≤7, 8-11, 12-14, and ≥15. However, this approach is not sufficient for those with more severe cases, highlighting the need for a combination of strategies.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 15, 2024