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Science News for October 16, 2024


Kidney transplantation between donors and recipients with HIV is safe

A multicenter observational study in the US found that kidney transplantation from deceased donors with HIV to recipients with HIV was safe and noninferior to transplantation from donors without HIV. The study enrolled 198 adults with HIV and end-stage kidney disease, comparing outcomes between 99 donors with HIV and 99 without.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 16, 2024

New research confirms that young adults can also have large vessel occlusion strokes thought to happen in older adults, given the rise of stroke risk factors in younger adults

New research confirms that young adults are at risk for large vessel occlusion acute ischemic strokes, which were previously thought to occur mainly in older adults. The study found that nearly 20% of a cohort of 1,200 young adult patients had these strokes, highlighting the need for regular check-ups and prompt treatment.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 16, 2024

Microplastics detected in dolphin breath

Researchers detected microplastic particles in the breath of wild bottlenose dolphins, suggesting inhalation may be a key route of exposure. The study supports the idea that dolphins could be exposed to potentially harmful microplastics through this pathway.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 16, 2024

New breakthrough in quantum computing development, hybrid quantum error correction technology

Researchers at KIST's Quantum Technology Research Centre have developed the world's first hybrid quantum error correction technique for discrete variables and continuous variables, combining the advantages of both methods. This breakthrough enables more efficient and effective quantum computation, with improved resource efficiency and ...

Cancer cell populations segregate to favor metastasis or antitumor inflammation

A recent study published in Nature Cancer has discovered that cancer cells exhibit opposing pro and antitumor programs, with the former promoting metastasis and the latter combating tumor growth. This finding opens new avenues for therapeutic strategies to target highly aggressive and therapy-resistant tumors.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2024

Can electricity treat high blood pressure?

Researchers at Penn State have developed a soft and stretchable tissue-like electronic device that delivers pulsed electricity to the body, showing promise in treating drug-resistant hypertension. The device's design minimizes tissue damage and inflammation by adapting to the carotid artery's expansion and contraction.

Growing influence of the financial sector in serious illness care in the US

A new article in Journal of Palliative Medicine highlights the growing role of for-profit entities in home health and hospice care, which can compromise care quality and patient welfare. The authors emphasize the need for research and regulatory responses to address these trends and ensure better care for seriously ill older adults.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Palliative Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 16, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal study reveals key insights on the global burden of thyroid cancer in 2022

A study published in the Chinese Medical Journal projects a significant rise in global thyroid cancer burden, with 821,214 new cases and 47,507 related deaths reported worldwide in 2022. The incidence is expected to increase by 44.1% from 2019 to 2030, with women experiencing higher rates than men.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateOct 16, 2024

Folic acid may mitigate link between lead exposure during pregnancy and autistic behaviours in children

A new study by Simon Fraser University researchers found that folic acid supplementation may weaken the link between blood-lead levels and autistic-like behaviors in children. The study suggests that adequate folic acid supplementation mitigates the neurotoxic effects of lead, reducing the risk of autism.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateOct 16, 2024

UVA researchers pioneer AI-driven manufacturing efficiency breakthrough

Researchers at UVA have developed an AI-driven system that optimizes manufacturing processes, improving speed and quality while reducing waste. The system uses Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning to coordinate tasks in real-time, leading to faster production and reduced downtime across various industries.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of Manufacturing Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 16, 2024

Chung-Ang University researchers develop a new GAN model that stabilizes training and performance

Researchers at Chung-Ang University developed a novel GAN model, PMF-GAN, to address stability and efficiency issues. The model utilizes kernel functions and histogram transformations to improve the generator's ability to produce diverse outputs, reducing mode collapse and gradient vanishing.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalApplied Soft Computing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 16, 2024

UK health leaders urge chancellor to invest in a smoke-free UK

UK health leaders are urging the chancellor to invest in creating a smoke-free UK, citing the significant economic burden of smoking (£93 billion annually) and the potential for increased funding through a 'polluter pays' levy on tobacco manufacturers. Investing in tobacco control can also improve public finances by saving £2.37 for ev...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 16, 2024

Grasslands live in the climate change fast lane

New research reveals that grasslands are responding to climate change almost in real time, with shifts driven by temperature and precipitation changes. The study found that as the climate became hotter and drier, dominant species adapted to those conditions, leading to potential loss of biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 16, 2024

For multiple sclerosis, medication and cognitive behavioral therapy can reduce fatigue

A University of Michigan-led study found that treatment with either modafinil or cognitive behavioral therapy alone was associated with significant reductions in fatigue over 12 weeks. A combination of both treatments worked as well as each individual treatment but did not result in better fatigue scores.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 16, 2024

Innovating in the corners where atoms meet

Fadi Abdeljawad's team finds that triple junctions, where three nanocrystals meet, are key to maintaining stability and strength of materials. This discovery could lead to designing better nanocrystalline alloys for aerospace and energy industries.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2024

Brown researchers show how gut hormones control aging in flies and how it relates to human biology

Researchers at Brown University have found a way to extend the lifespan of flies by suppressing a hormone that regulates insulin secretion. The study suggests that certain medications used to treat human obesity and diabetes may also impact aging, making it a promising area of research for future studies.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2024

Nanoparticle therapy offers new hope for prostate cancer patients

A groundbreaking study has demonstrated the clinical success of a new nanoparticle-based, laser-guided therapy for prostate cancer treatment. The therapy successfully eliminated cancerous cells in 73% of patients after 12 months while preserving key functions and side effects.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalThe Journal of Urology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 16, 2024

KAIST develops Janus-like metasurface technology that acts according to the direction of light​

Researchers at KAIST have developed a Janus metasurface capable of controlling asymmetric light transmission, enabling the creation of two independent optical systems with a single device. This technology also enables optical encryption by generating different images depending on the direction and polarization state of incoming light.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 16, 2024

Are nearby planets sending radio signals to each other?

Scientists at Penn State and SETI Institute used the Allen Telescope Array to scan the TRAPPIST-1 star system for radio signals similar to those used by rovers on Mars. Although no extraterrestrial technology was found, the project introduced a new method for future searches.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateOct 16, 2024

In landmark study, immunotherapy boosts survival of advanced Hodgkin lymphoma

A new treatment approach using immunotherapy has shown promising results in treating advanced Hodgkin lymphoma, with a remarkable 92% survival rate. The innovative clinical trial, led by Wilmot Director Jonathan Friedberg, also minimizes long-term side effects and toxicities.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 16, 2024

Plastic pollution sounds just like food to deep-diving whales

A new study by Duke University finds that deep-diving whales confuse plastic debris with prey items, as its acoustic signature mimics squid. Researchers tested various types of plastic trash and found strong similarities in their acoustic signals compared to whale prey, highlighting the need for more sustainable materials.

SourceDuke University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2024

Project to integrate human and machine intelligence to address information integrity

A new project, 'Crowd-Assisted Human-AI Teaming with Explanations,' aims to develop an interactive AI system that leverages the collective strengths of human crowd workers and machine learning models. The researchers will use crowdsourcing platforms to recruit experts and non-experts to perform tasks, making the system more robust and ...

One in three plants call islands home

A new study reveals that islands are home to around one in three of the world's plant species, with 63,280 endemic species native to islands. The research provides a comprehensive assessment of vascular plants native and endemic to marine islands worldwide.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 16, 2024

Climate change-induced pests remain major ‘bottleneck’ to agricultural productivity and food security in South Sudan

A new CABI-led research study reveals low access to plant health services in South Sudan, hindering agricultural productivity. The findings highlight the need for strengthening government-led initiatives, service accessibility, and inclusivity in plant health systems to address climate change-induced pests.

SourceCABI·JournalCABI Agriculture and Bioscience·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 16, 2024

Zebrafish as a model for studying rare genetic disease

A recent study employs zebrafish to model Nager syndrome, revealing the role of sf3b4 mutations in facial development and apoptosis. The research suggests that FGF8 plays a critical role in disease pathogenesis and provides a potential therapeutic strategy.

SourceKyushu University·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2024

UVA researchers engineer AI breakthrough in human action detection technology

Researchers at UVA's School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed an AI-driven intelligent video analyzer capable of detecting human actions with unprecedented precision and intelligence. The system, called SMAST, promises to transform industries such as surveillance, healthcare, and autonomous driving.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 16, 2024

Researchers offer alternative to hydroxyurea in study of DNA replication process

Researchers at Colorado State University have identified an alternate method to study changes during the DNA replication process in lab settings using genetically modified yeast. This new approach provides a less toxic and quickly reversible alternative to hydroxyurea, allowing for better insight into cell cycle arrest mechanisms.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2024

Marginalized entrepreneurs forge their own paths

A new paper by Rowena Crabbe explores how entrepreneurship can help marginalized groups surmount obstacles, including limited access to capital, social closure, and consumer discrimination. The research identifies conditions for success, such as self-employment, products for unmet needs, and processes that lower barriers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·DateOct 16, 2024

Life-saving spongelike “bandage” developed by UCF researchers rapidly stops hemorrhaging and mitigates risk of infection

A new hemostatic sponge developed by UCF researchers can stop severe bleeding in under a minute, while also acting as an antibacterial agent. The liquid gel transforms into a spongelike foam upon exposure to the wound, applying pressure to restrict hemorrhage and promoting natural clotting.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateOct 16, 2024

Kidney transplantation among those with HIV infections shown safe and effective

A new study found that kidney transplantation from HIV-positive donors to recipients with HIV is safe and effective, with comparable survival rates and risks of serious side effects. The study's results support the use of organs from HIV-positive donors as standard clinical practice for people with HIV in need of kidney transplantation.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 16, 2024

Study finds widespread exposure to hormone-disrupting chemical during pregnancy

Researchers detected ZEN in nearly all pregnant women's urine samples and 84% of placentas, highlighting the need for regulations to control mycoestrogen presence in food. Women with healthier diets had lower exposure levels, while those consuming ultra-processed foods showed increased ZEN concentrations.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 16, 2024

Concerning levels of PFAS in fish miles away from large contamination source

A new study by Harvard researchers finds alarmingly high PFAS concentrations in fish tissues even up to 8 km from the military base. The results underscore the urgent need for more comprehensive monitoring of PFAS in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in regions where freshwater fishing is an important food source.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 16, 2024

The origin of most meteorites finally revealed

An international team has identified the sources of 70% of all known meteorite falls, revealing that 37% come from the Massalia family. The discovery was made possible by a telescopic survey and computer simulations of asteroid families' composition and evolution.

SourceCNRS·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 16, 2024

Most older adults don’t trust AI-generated health information — but many aren’t sure what to trust

A recent poll found that 74% of people over 50 would not trust health information generated by artificial intelligence. Only 32% of older adults reported it's very easy to find something accurate online. Health systems, academic institutions, and government agencies can use the results to improve health information accessibility.

Korean research team proposes optimal utilization strategy for hydrogen energy, the key to carbon neutrality

A Korean research team developed an energy system model optimized for Korea's environment to predict the optimal proportion of hydrogen energy needed to achieve national carbon neutrality by 2050. The KIER-TIMES model suggests that hydrogen energy needs to account for 27% of overall energy supply, with forecasts indicating a rise to 25%.

Aquaculture uses far more wild fish than previously estimated, study finds

The study, led by an international team of scientists, suggests that global fish farming relies on significantly larger quantities of wild-caught ocean fish than previously calculated. The findings indicate a 27-307% higher ratio of wild fish inputs to farmed fish outputs, with some species relying on twice the farmed biomass produced.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateOct 16, 2024