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Science News for October 24, 2024


MCG neuroscientist receives $2.3 million in funding from NIH High-Risk, High-Reward Research program

Danielle Mor, a neuroscientist at the Medical College of Georgia, has been awarded $2.3 million to study the progression of Parkinson's disease through the use of C. elegans and innovative research approaches. Her goal is to understand how misfolded proteins spread from the gastrointestinal tract to the central nervous system.

Quantum experiments and high-performance computing: new methods enable complex calculations to be completed extremely quickly

Scientists at Paderborn University used high-performance computing to analyse a quantum photonics experiment, performing calculations in just minutes. The findings have significant implications for characterising photonic quantum computer hardware and will shape the future of quantum research.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalQuantum Science and Technology·DateOct 24, 2024

Combining targeted therapy and immunotherapy improves overall survival in patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center demonstrated that combining anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy with mutation-directed targeted therapy extended overall survival in patients with anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. The median OS across all cohorts was 19 months, compared to five months for historical data.

Human actions cause insect color change

A new study by the University of Otago found that New Zealand's native stoneflies have evolved to change color in response to deforestation, a clear example of animal evolution caused by human actions. This adaptation allows the species to overcome the loss of its original warning colors, which were lost due to forest removal.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalScience·DateOct 24, 2024

Beneficial gut microbe has surprising metabolic capabilities

Researchers discovered a beneficial gut bacterium that produces an enzyme capable of metabolizing key molecules involved in regulating appetite, immune responses, and neuronal function. The discovery highlights the importance of gut microbes in human physiology and may lead to new strategies for maintaining health and treating diseases.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Segregated placements can have positive psychological transformative effects on people with visual impairment

Research found that segregated placements serve as social hubs for individuals with similar challenges, facilitating connection and cooperation. Additionally, these environments enable impairment-specific educational activities to address unique needs, boosting confidence among those with deteriorating vision.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBritish Journal of Visual Impairment·DateOct 24, 2024

ClinGen creates a robust, open-access platform to define the clinical relevance of genes and variants

The Clinical Genome Resource (ClinGen) has published data on over 2,700 genes curated for clinical relevance to genetic diseases. The consortium has identified 2,420 gene-disease relationships, classified 5,161 unique pathogenic variants and validated 1,557 genes for dosage sensitivity assessments.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 24, 2024

New AI model could make power grids more reliable amid rising renewable energy use

Researchers developed an AI model that addresses uncertainties in renewable energy generation and electric vehicle demand, making power grids more reliable. The model uses multi-fidelity graph neural networks to optimize solutions within seconds, improving grid performance even under unpredictable conditions.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalElectric Power Systems Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 24, 2024

Study shows rates of sensitization in Chicago to outdoor allergens increased post-COVID

A recent study in Chicago reveals a significant increase in sensitization to pollens and molds among patients with nasal allergies. The researchers found that tree pollen, weed pollen, grass pollen, and mold sensitizations all increased post-COVID compared to pre-COVID.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 24, 2024

Aberration-robust monocular passive depth sensing using a meta-imaging camera

A meta-imaging camera has been developed for aberration-robust monocular passive depth sensing, outperforming traditional light-field cameras in depth estimation precision and robustness. The camera's capability to overcome spatial resolution and angular resolution trade-offs enables accurate depth sensing even in the presence of optic...

Need for psychology referrals increasing for children with food allergies

A study found that anxiety related to food allergies increased significantly in children, leading to an average of 2.1 allergens per patient and a 69% incidence of food-related anxiety. Psychology referrals for these patients increased by 50% over four years, with 60% completing at least one appointment.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 24, 2024

Study: Parents’ understanding of atopic dermatitis may influence child’s diet

A survey of 298 parents with children diagnosed with atopic dermatitis found that parents' understanding of the condition and its dietary links significantly influenced their children's diets. The most frequently identified trigger foods were milk, tree nuts/seeds/peanuts, and eggs.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeSurvey·DateOct 24, 2024

Phase Two results with CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing support further development as treatment for hereditary angioedema (HAE)

A CRISPR-Cas9 based gene editing therapy has been shown to reduce angioedema attacks and sustainably lower kallikrein levels in patients with hereditary angioedema, offering a potential treatment option. The therapy was tested on 27 patients across two dosages compared to placebo.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 24, 2024

Feeding practices play a central role in infants’ rapid weight gain, UNC Greensboro researchers find

A UNC Greensboro study of 299 women and their infants found that obesogenic feeding practices, such as watching TV while feeding or formula-feeding, are strongly correlated with rapid infant weight gain. The researchers also found that mothers' prenatal psychological risk increases the likelihood they will engage in these unhealthy pra...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Greensboro·JournalPediatric Obesity·TypeObservational study·DateOct 24, 2024

No significant PFAs emissions caused by waste incineration

Researchers found that incineration of household waste containing fluoropolymers at temperatures typical for municipal waste incineration resulted in nearly complete mineralization, with over 99.99% reduction rate. This finding suggests that standard combustion conditions are sufficient to remove fluoropolymers from the environment.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

No wasted effort: Effective wastewater surveillance methods for monitoring infections gleaned from COVID-19 case study in Japan

A study from Osaka University found a reliable wastewater surveillance method, tracking regional infection trends with high sensitivity and reproducibility. The research team concluded that at least three samples per week are required for accurate monitoring.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 24, 2024

University of Barcelona team rejuvenates brain neurons through cellular reprogramming: More neurons and more brain plasticity

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have developed a method to rejuvenate brain neurons in mice using controlled cellular reprogramming cycles with Yamanaka factors. This process recovers altered neurological properties and functions, and has been shown to increase neuron count and brain plasticity.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Scientists may have discovered important step in the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Aarhus University have decoded part of the bacterial defense mechanism against antibiotics, providing a crucial step towards treating resistant MRSA infections. Understanding the molecular composition of the biofilm-forming protein PSMα1 could lead to new strategies and treatments to prevent biofilm formation.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Vaccine refusal lower in minorities in new study

A new study at an allergy clinic in a diverse community found that self-identified non-White patients were less likely to show vaccine hesitancy than the White patient group. Ethnicities included in the study showed Black, Hispanic and Asian ethnicities with lower rates of refusal compared to Whites.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 24, 2024

Take aim at the pause!

Researchers have uncovered a new mechanism in the growth of amyloid β (Aβ) fibrils, which are closely associated with Alzheimer's disease. The team found that each Aβ fibril is composed of two thin strands called protofilaments, and when their ends align, the fibril enters a paused state where growth temporarily stops.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Illinois researchers receive two NIH grants to study infant development with innovative methods

Researchers at the University of Illinois are using a wearable device called LittleBeats to collect data on infant behavior in real-world settings. The first grant focuses on infant-parent interactions and emotional regulation, while the second grant explores infant sleep/wake patterns and health outcomes.

By studying new species of tardigrade, researchers glean insights into radiation tolerance

Researchers studied a newly identified species of tardigrade to gain insights into its ability to withstand radiation. The study found that the animal's robust DNA repair capabilities and expression of specific proteins protect it from radiation damage, offering potential inspiration for promoting human health.

Stopping surprise ambulance bills a tough policy puzzle

A study by Ohio State University found that ground ambulance providers raised their prices in response to a New York law aimed at preventing surprise, expensive out-of-network emergency ambulance bills. The law increased prices by 13%, which is likely to hit health consumers' bank accounts through elevated insurance premiums.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHealth Services Research·DateOct 24, 2024

Plant diversity enhances soil carbon retention

A new study reveals that increasing plant diversity in agriculture can significantly improve soil carbon retention by fostering stronger positive interactions between microbes. This practice not only promotes healthier ecosystems but also offers a viable solution for maintaining crop output while sequestering more carbon in soils.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Millions in the U.S. may rely on groundwater contaminated with PFAS for drinking water supplies

According to a new USGS study, approximately 71-95 million people in the Lower 48 states may rely on groundwater containing detectable concentrations of PFAS for their drinking water supplies. The predictive model helps understand the potential for PFAS contamination and informs strategic planning for water resources.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 24, 2024

New performance record for eco-friendly nanocrystal solar cells

ICFO researchers have reported on a post-deposition in situ passivation strategy that improves surface passivation, yielding nanocrystal ink films with enhanced optoelectronic properties. This approach has led to the development of ultrathin solar cells with higher power conversion efficiency than their multi-step deposition counterparts.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateOct 24, 2024

Researchers improve speed and accuracy of 3D surface measurements

The new fringe photometric stereo technique reduces scanning time by over two-thirds while achieving micrometer-level accuracy, ideal for real-time scanning applications such as industrial inspection and medical procedures. The approach 'feels' the surface by projecting light patterns, improving precision measurements.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateOct 24, 2024

New JNCCN study suggests Medicaid expansion improves cancer care and survival for people with aggressive type of breast cancer

A new study published in JNCCN found that Medicaid expansion was associated with longer survival rates and reduced treatment delays for patients with HR-negative, HER2-positive breast cancer. The study used data from the National Cancer Database to review results for women diagnosed with this type of breast cancer between 2010 and 2018.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateOct 24, 2024

Study increases understanding of what makes multiply recurrent meningiomas a most aggressive form of brain tumor

A study published in Science Advances has identified key characteristics of multiply recurrent meningiomas (MRMs), a highly aggressive form of brain tumor. Researchers found that MRMs are more numerous, larger and more common in men than women, with increased chromosomal instability and DNA methylation.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

NTU Singapore scientists develop grain-sized soft robots controlled by magnetic fields for targeted drug delivery

Researchers developed grain-sized soft robots that can transport up to four different drugs, release them in reprogrammable orders and doses, and navigate complex environments inside the human body. The robots' precision functions have the potential to significantly improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

On the way to light-controlled medicine

Scientists have discovered a way to switch cellular activities on and off using light, opening up new possibilities for biological research and medical applications. The researchers created photoreceptors similar to those in the retina, which can be triggered by light pulses to initiate specific cellular signalling processes.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Opioids may negatively impact hormone health

The Endocrine Society's new statement highlights research gaps on opioids' effects on the endocrine system, which can lead to conditions like male hypogonadism and secondary adrenal insufficiency. Clinicians need to monitor patients using opioids for signs of these health consequences.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrine Reviews·DateOct 24, 2024

Transcriptomic landscape analysis reveals a persistent DNA damage response in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis post-dietary intervention

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASLD) exhibits persistent activation of the DNA damage response (DDR) and its primary transcription factor P53 even after dietary reversal. Elevated P53 levels correlate with hepatocyte ballooning, suggesting a link between DDR signaling and MASLD recurrence.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateOct 24, 2024

Unnoticeable electric currents could reduce skin infections

Researchers designed a skin patch that uses imperceptible electric currents to control microbes, stopping 99% of biofilm formation in bacteria. The device, called Bioelectronic Localized Antimicrobial Stimulation Therapy, could lead to a wearable patch with a wireless circuit to control infections without drugs.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Patients with advanced bladder cancer with alterations in the FGFR3 gene respond well to investigational drug, TYRA-300

TYRA-300 shows promise in treating metastatic bladder cancer patients with FGFR3 gene mutations, achieving a 50% overall response rate and 100% disease control rate. The treatment also displays improved tolerability with lower side effects compared to existing pan-FGFR inhibitors.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 24, 2024

The Lancet Public Health: New Commission calls for regulatory reform to tackle the health impacts of the rapid global expansion of commercial gambling

Commercial gambling poses a threat to public health, with 448.7 million adults worldwide experiencing risk gambling and 80 million experiencing gambling disorder. The new Commission report calls for increased regulation to tackle these harms, particularly among children and adolescents.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 24, 2024

UCLA researchers engineer experimental drug for preventing heart failure after heart attacks

Scientists at UCLA have engineered an experimental therapy that shows promise in enhancing heart repair following a heart attack, preventing the onset of heart failure. The new single-dose therapy targets the protein ENPP1, which is responsible for increasing inflammation and scar tissue formation.

New model to study macrophage aging mechanisms

Researchers developed an in vitro model of murine peritoneal macrophage aging to study molecular mechanisms and develop innovative strategies. Chronic treatment with CB3 completely prevented the increase of p21CIP1 and maintained proliferative activity in day 14 macrophages.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateOct 24, 2024

DNA palette code for time-series archival data storage

The study proposes an innovative DNA Palette coding scheme for efficient storage of digital information in DNA. The code uses unordered combinations of index-free oligos to construct a bijective mapping between binary information and oligos, offering high net information density and data recovery capabilities.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 24, 2024

Innovative bioelectronic device offers new hope in the fight against bacterial infections

Researchers at the University of Chicago and UC San Diego have developed a cutting-edge bioelectronic device that harnesses the natural electrical activity of certain bacteria to manage infections. The device achieves remarkable results by delivering gentle electrical signals, reducing bacterial colonization nearly tenfold.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Nigerians are experiencing neuro-long COVID

A study found that 4.6% of Nigerian participants with COVID-19 experienced neurologic symptoms, with some still experiencing symptoms two years after their initial episode. Researchers plan to treat these patients using similar techniques used in the US, aiming to alleviate their suffering.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of NeuroVirology·DateOct 24, 2024

Successful experiment paves the way for new element

Researchers at Lund University successfully produced livermorium atoms using a new method, opening the door to creating even heavier elements like number 120. The discovery was made possible by a custom-built detector system called SHREC, which allowed for efficient registration of the atoms.

SourceLund University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 24, 2024

Unique biodiversity patterns in high-altitude rivers on the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau revealed

A study published in Water Biology and Security reveals spatial and temporal patterns of biodiversity in four taxonomic groups along the Za'gya Zangbo River. The findings emphasize the importance of considering multiple biological groups in biomonitoring high-altitude rivers, and highlight areas that require targeted conservation efforts.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater Biology and Security·TypeCase study·DateOct 24, 2024

An individual’s reward-seeking strategy reflects responses to nicotine

A study in mice reveals that individualistic reward-seeking strategies predict responses to nicotine, with profiles influenced by personality traits and dopamine activity. The findings suggest environmental adaptations shape behavioral traits and sensitivity to nicotine, potentially contributing to addiction susceptibility.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Many rural Washington state youth engage in socially acceptable firearm-related behaviors

A study by Washington State University found that rural adolescents in Washington state generally engage in pro-social firearm-related behaviors, such as hunting and recreation. The study used a mix of qualitative and quantitative research to understand rural youths' interactions with firearms and their perceptions of firearm-related s...

SourceWashington State University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 24, 2024

Burning incense can pose health risks for those with allergies and asthma

Prolonged exposure to incense smoke can cause headaches, respiratory dysfunction, dermatologic sensitivity, and allergic reactions in individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma. Switching to electric or aromatic vapors, improved ventilation, and limiting burn time may help mitigate these risks.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeCase study·DateOct 24, 2024

Discovery of a light-responsive mechanism whereby sea urchins open the entrance and exit to their intestines

Researchers discovered that sea urchin larvae open their pylorus and anus entrances in response to different wavelengths of light, allowing for efficient digestion and nutrient absorption. This light-regulated control of the digestive tract may have evolved to help metazoans adapt to changes in their environment.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 24, 2024

Watershed moment: Engineers invent high-yield atmospheric water capture device for arid regions

Researchers develop innovative technology to capture large amounts of water from the air in low humidities, addressing water scarcity in drought-stressed Southwest. The device can generate up to three times more water than existing approaches, with potential for solar power and commercial use.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 24, 2024

Scientists create cancer patients’ ‘digital twins’ to predict how well treatments may work

Researchers have developed a technology called FarrSight-Twin that creates digital twins of real cancer patients to predict treatment response. The approach was tested on published clinical trials and showed accurate predictions in all simulated studies, with 75% response rate among patients receiving the predicted best treatment.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 24, 2024

Penicillin allergy delabeling in syphilis patients assists in furthering treatment

A new study shows that syphilis patients labeled as penicillin allergic but low risk can safely have their allergy label removed, avoiding treatment failure and negative health consequences. This delabeling helps to improve treatment outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 24, 2024