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Science News for October 17, 2024


A mushroom for colorectal cancer therapy

Researchers discovered a previously unknown class of compounds in the fungus Bipolaris victoriae S27 that effectively kill colorectal cancer cells. The most effective compound, bipoterpride No. 2, targets the DCTPP1 enzyme and shows promise as a potential new treatment option.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Visible light energy yields two-for-one deal when added to CO2 recycling process

Combining visible light with electrochemistry improves CO2 conversion rates and selectivity, enabling the production of valuable products such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen. The study's findings have significant implications for catalysis research and industrial applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Pusan National University researchers develop fast-responding colorimetric sensor with expanded color gamut for real-time monitoring

Researchers at Pusan National University developed a fast-responding colorimetric sensor with an expanded color gamut, capable of detecting humidity and other environmental changes in real-time. The sensor outperforms previous designs with a wide color representation and rapid responsiveness.

SourcePusan National University·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Drug discovery within the patient

A team of researchers has identified numerous bacteria with potential therapeutic applications, including those related to respiratory diseases. By analyzing the microbiome of humans and animals, they have discovered genetic blueprints for natural products that could be used to develop new medications.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2024

Catching prey with grappling hooks and cannons

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a new predatory bacterium, Aureispira, that uses grappling hooks and cannons to capture prey. The bacterium's molecular structures resemble those of pirate tools, allowing it to entangle and kill its victims quickly.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateOct 17, 2024

The Women's Health Initiative remains an unprecedented resource to improve well-being of postmenopausal women

A special issue of the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reviews the history of the Women's Health Initiative, which has contributed significantly to the science of nutrition. The initiative's findings have led to a reduction in breast cancer cases and improved blood lipid management among postmenopausal women.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Unpaid caregiving is undervalued by society

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that unpaid caregiving contributes billions of dollars' worth of labor annually, yet is often overlooked in societal value. The study suggests that people with lower socioeconomic status are more likely to provide care within their social networks but perceive themselve...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateOct 17, 2024

Why do we love carbs? The origins predate agriculture and maybe even our split from Neanderthals

A new study finds that the gene for starch-digesting saliva may have first duplicated more than 800,000 years ago, seeding genetic variation that shapes modern diet. This early duplication set the stage for significant variation in the amylase region, allowing humans to adapt to shifting diets with increasing starch consumption.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2024

A new approach to capturing complex mixtures of organic chemicals in blood, evaluated in pregnant women

Researchers developed a new method to capture complex mixtures of organic chemicals in blood, finding that many pregnant women carry a mixture of neurotoxic chemicals. The study revealed that these mixtures can act additively to produce harm, even at concentrations below individual chemical thresholds.

A.J. Drexel Autism Institute study highlights key challenges and opportunities in transitioning autistic individuals into adulthood

A new study from the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute has released findings that underscore critical challenges and opportunities in transitioning autistic youth into adulthood. The research emphasizes the need for improved services and supports, as well as the importance of prioritizing autistic perspectives and cultural considerations.

SourceDrexel University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 17, 2024

Researchers advance ideas on abiotic organic synthesis

A Chinese research team has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the origin of life by discovering abiotic organic compounds in the oceanic crust. The researchers proposed a molecular mechanism for organic condensation, revealing a crucial role of goethite in catalyzing the synthesis of abiotic carbonaceous matter.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2024

Mpox in Africa was neglected during the previous outbreak, and requires urgent action and investment by leaders now to prevent global spread

Experts from The Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response urge leaders to take action against Mpox, a more dangerous virus now spreading across borders. The previous outbreak was neglected, highlighting the need for increased investment and cooperation to prevent further harm and global spread.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateOct 17, 2024

Buy your groceries online? Watch out for this food labeling gap

A new study reveals that online grocery retailers often don't provide essential nutrition information, such as calories and allergens, making it difficult for consumers to make informed choices. The lack of accessible food labeling poses a significant risk to public health, with marketing claims dominating the online shopping experience.

SourceTufts University·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateOct 17, 2024

Researchers develop new tool for improved diagnosis of common tropical disease

Researchers have created a new diagnostic tool using machine learning to detect schistosomiasis, a persistent parasitic infection affecting an estimated 250 million people. The tool can identify low levels of the infection and distinguish between active and past infections, leading to earlier treatment and improved long-term outcomes.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Harnessing vibrations: RPI-engineered material generates electricity from unexpected source

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed a polymer film infused with a special chalcogenide perovskite compound that produces electricity when squeezed or stressed. The material has shown promising results, including powering LED lights and potentially being used in machines, infrastructure, and biomedical applications.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Medicaid ACOs have not yet improved care for kids with asthma

A study led by UMass Amherst found no significant improvement in asthma care for Medicaid-insured children compared to those with private insurance. Despite the launch of primary care-oriented Medicaid ACOs in Massachusetts, disparities in quality of care persist, with worsening emergency department/hospital use for children with Medic...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2024

Environmental DNA and epidemics in wood frogs

A team of researchers from UConn and Washington State University explored how environmental DNA (eDNA) can help better understand population size and health in wood frogs. They found that environmental factors impact eDNA concentrations, but the precision of this method remains unclear due to sample-to-sample variation.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Democrats and Republicans agree on one thing: Censoring hate speech

Researchers found that Democrats and Republicans generally agree on what to censor when it comes to hate speech, with both parties prioritizing similar targets and severity levels. The study's findings suggest that social media companies can find consensus policies that get broad support, even in a highly polarized era.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateOct 17, 2024

AI-assisted deliberation can help people with different views find common ground

A new study shows that an AI tool can help people with different views find common ground by producing statements that convey the majority opinion while incorporating minority perspectives. Participants preferred and rated these outputs as more informative, clear, and unbiased compared to those written by human mediators.

Study: Pediatric healthcare facilities need more staff dedicated to infection prevention

A study at Boston Children's Hospital highlights the complexity of infection prevention and control measures in pediatric healthcare. The conventional method of calculating IP staffing needs does not accurately reflect the current demands of healthcare systems or pediatric patients, leading to a shortage of resources.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2024

Smithsonian receives $12 million from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation for forest carbon verification with GEO-TREES

The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute will use the grant to apply a free, definitive standard for quantification of forest carbon everywhere. The project aims to provide accurate estimates of carbon storage and change in forests globally, enabling countries, companies, and landowners to offset their emissions.

Why do we love carbs? The origins predate agriculture and maybe even our split from Neanderthals

A new study published in Science reveals that the salivary amylase gene (AMY1) may have first duplicated more than 800,000 years ago, seeding genetic variation that shapes human digestion of starchy foods. This early duplication allowed for increased starch-digesting efficiency and may have played a role in human adaptation to new diets.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Ozempic (and similar medications) may be the new treatment for opioid and alcohol use disorder

A new study found that people with opioid or alcohol use disorder who take Ozempic or similar medications have a lower rate of opioid overdose and alcohol intoxication. The medication, which treats diabetes and weight-related conditions, may also alter the brain's reward-response pathways associated with substance use.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2024

Laser solid-phase synthesis of graphene shell-encapsulated high-entropy alloy nanoparticles

Researchers develop laser solid-phase synthesis technique to produce graphene-shell encapsulated CrMnFeCoNi nanoparticles, exhibiting excellent electrocatalytic activity towards oxygen evolution reaction. The method offers simplicity, generality, and tunability to synthesize phase-separation-free HEA nanoparticles.

Ultra-processed foods pose unique dangers for people with type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that ultra-processed foods, including diet options, bring distinct risks for people with type 2 diabetes. Consuming more ultra-processed foods is closely linked with higher blood sugar levels, while a diet rich in minimally processed or unprocessed foods improves control.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2024

Putting out a brain on fire

Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding the rare autoimmune disease anti-NMDAR encephalitis, which can cause psychosis, hallucinations, and blackouts. The study found that different antibodies bind to NMDA receptors in unique ways, suggesting personalized medicine may be key to treating the condition.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateOct 17, 2024

New study sheds light on lily toxicity in cats; outpatient treatment may be viable option

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association has revealed new insights into treating cats exposed to toxic lilies. The study found no significant difference in acute kidney injury prevalence between inpatient and outpatient groups, suggesting that outpatient management may be a viable option fo...

SourceAmerican Veterinary Medical Association·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2024

AI helps to detect antibiotic resistance

Researchers at University of Zurich used AI to analyze antibiotic resistance using GPT-4 model, creating EUCAST-GPT-expert system for accurate interpretation of antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. The AI system performed well in detecting certain types of resistance but had limitations, while human experts were more accurate but slower.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

New study reveals strawberries as a powerful ally for heart health

A new study reveals strawberries as a powerful ally for heart health by supporting cardiometabolic health and managing cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of 1-4 cups of strawberries per day can lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, reducing inflammation and cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceWild Hive·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 17, 2024

Special Issue explores factors influencing democratic attitudes, and what’s at stake for science in the U.S. after November election

Research studies examine global conceptualizations of democracy, partisan animosity, and AI-assisted deliberation to improve democratic attitudes. Findings provide a clearer framework for defending democratic norms worldwide and highlight effective strategies for reducing partisan hostility and anti-democratic attitudes.

How chain IVF clinics improve infertility treatment

A study by University of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business researchers found that chain IVF clinics significantly improve treatment cycles and live birth rates compared to independent operators. Clinic acquisition leads to a 27% increase in IVF cycles and a 14% rise in live births, indicating improved care quality.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalManagement Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2024

New microfluidic chip method developed for sepsis prognosis and evaluation

Researchers developed a new prognostic evaluation method for sepsis patients using a microfluidic concentration gradient chip. They discovered significant differences in neutrophil migration parameters between sepsis patients and healthy controls, which were strongly correlated with established sepsis severity markers.

New catalyst breakthrough: Improving oxygen reduction reaction with dual nitrogen sources

A new Fe-N-C catalyst using dual nitrogen sources enhances the distribution density of active catalytic sites, increasing its overall activity and stability in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The catalyst demonstrates superior performance compared to commercial Pt/C catalysts, with improved durability and resistance to methanol.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalFrontiers in Energy·DateOct 17, 2024

Intrinsic magnetic structure observed for the first time in a kagome lattice

Researchers discovered a new lattice-modulated magnetic array in Fe₃Sn₂ single crystal, exhibiting unique broken hexagonal structure due to competing symmetry and anisotropy. Hall transport measurements confirmed topologically broken spin configurations, revealing an in-plane ferromagnetic state at low temperatures.

Study shows that Rett syndrome in females is not just less severe, but different

Researchers found that female mouse models of Rett syndrome have a mosaic-like distribution of cells expressing wild-type and mutant MeCP2 protein, leading to dysregulated genes. The study also discovered an unusual disease progression, with females having more dysregulated genes at the pre-symptomatic stage than later on.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Gut instincts: Intestinal nutrient sensors

A team of researchers has developed strategies to identify regulators of intestinal hormone secretion, which could lead to new treatments for metabolic and gut motility disorders. They used human organoids to study the function of 'nutrient sensors' on hormone-producing cells in the gut.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientists discover fastest degrading bioplastic in seawater

Researchers found that foamed cellulose diacetate (CDA) degrades 15 times faster than solid CDA and even faster than paper. The study's results suggest that foamed CDA could be used to replace Styrofoam plastic and single-use plastics, reducing plastic pollution and environmental impacts.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2024

The continuous evolution of the shape of surface Fermi arc induces an electromagnetic pulling force that operates over a broad range of angles, effectively attracting a variety of small particles.

Scientists have created a method to switch between optical pulling and pushing forces by altering the shape of Fermi arcs in topological photonic Weyl systems. This approach enables a stable optical pulling force effective across various particle types, regardless of size, shape, or refractive index.

The expansion of turbid drops in water

A team of researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz has developed a new method to study the interior of crystalline drops using monochromatic illumination. This approach exploits the color-dependent scattering of light and reveals the density profile of the drop, including initial rapid expansion due to particle repulsion befo...

An atomically controllable insulator-to-metal transition achieved in strongly correlated insulator heterostructures

Researchers successfully induce insulator-to-metal transition by controlling electronic correlation, revealing high saturation field and percolation effect in iridate/manganite heterostructures. The findings have potential implications for designing next-generation electronic devices.

Penn Medicine and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia create mRNA vaccine to prevent and treat C. difficile

Researchers at Penn Medicine have developed the first mRNA vaccine against C. difficile, a bacterium that causes severe diarrhea and colon damage. The vaccine induces a robust immune response, promotes clearance of existing bacteria from the gut, and overcomes deficits in host immunity to protect against infections.

USC study finds link between PFAS, kidney function and gut health

Researchers at USC found a link between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and kidney damage, which may be tied to dysregulation of the gut microbiome. The study, published in Science of the Total Environment, suggests that changes in gut bacteria and related metabolites can explain up to 50% of decreased kidney function.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Vitamin B12 Identified as a potential therapeutic agent in the prevention and treatment of acute pancreatitis

Researchers discovered that vitamin B12 reduces the risk of developing different types of pancreatitis by strongly associating with reduced risk. Vitamin B12 also displays protective effects on acinar cells from necrosis during early stages of acute pancreatitis and promotes tissue repair.

The National Tax Journal is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Musgrave Prize and the 2024 Referee Award

The National Tax Journal recognizes Jason DeBacker, Bradley T. Heim, Anh Tran, and Alexander Yuskavage for their article on paid preparers decreasing tax compliance. The journal also presents the annual Referee Award to Emilie Jackson and Jason DeBacker for their exceptional service as referees.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalNational Tax Journal·DateOct 17, 2024

Big data, real world, multi-state study finds RSV vaccine highly effective in protecting older adults against severe disease, hospitalization and death

A multi-state study published in The Lancet found the RSV vaccine to be highly effective in protecting older adults against severe disease, hospitalization, and death. The vaccine provided approximately 80% protection against these outcomes, including severe disease and ICU admission.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 17, 2024

Astrobiology: Potential microbial habitats in Martian ice

A modelling study suggests that Martian ice deposits in mid-latitudes could provide conditions necessary for photosynthetic life. The study found that ice containing dust content levels between 0.01-0.1% could have a habitable region at depths of 5-38 cm, with cleaner ice allowing for deeper zones.

SourceSpringer·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 17, 2024

Sweden meets UN targets for HIV epidemic

Sweden has surpassed the UNAIDS and WHO targets for the HIV epidemic, with 96% diagnosed, 99% on treatment, and 98% having undetectable virus levels. The country's effective infrastructure and comprehensive data collection have made it possible to reach these ambitious targets.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEurosurveillance·DateOct 17, 2024

Raising happy eaters: Unlocking the secrets of childhood appetite

Researchers propose a model that examines the complex relationships between children's appetite regulation and environmental influences. The study suggests that temperamental characteristics play a significant role in shaping children's eating behaviors and provide guidelines for better understanding childhood appetite self-regulation.

HKUST researchers reveal microglia’s crucial role in preventing axonal degeneration following spinal cord injury

Researchers at HKUST have discovered a neuroprotective mechanism involving microglia that prevents acute axonal degeneration after spinal cord injury. Microglia establish direct contact with myelinated axons, exhibiting a protective wrapping behavior that delays degeneration.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Quantum research breakthrough uses synthetic dimensions to efficiently process quantum information

A team of researchers has discovered a way to manipulate quantum states of light using a synthetic photonic lattice capable of generating and manipulating quantum states in a simple yet powerful way. This breakthrough could lead to advanced quantum computing, secure quantum communications, and other applications.

Study suggests a healthy diet may help keep low grade prostate cancer from progressing to more dangerous states during active surveillance

A new study suggests that a healthy diet may help keep low-grade prostate cancer from progressing to more aggressive states in men undergoing active surveillance. The research team led by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that a reduced risk of prostate cancer progression is associated with a healthy diet.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateOct 17, 2024