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Science News for October 29, 2024


Most patients can continue diabetes, weight loss GLP-1 drugs before surgery, those at highest risk for GI problems should follow liquid diet before procedure

A new clinical guidance from the American Society of Anesthesiologists recommends continuing GLP-1 drugs for patients with diabetes and weight loss before elective surgery, except for those at highest risk for gastrointestinal problems. Patients at high risk should follow a liquid diet or other measures to minimize risks.

UCSB materials scientist Chris Van de Walle receives top computational physics award from the American Physical Society

Chris Van de Walle, a distinguished professor at UCSB, has been awarded the American Physical Society's 2025 Aneesur Rahman Prize for Computational Physics. He was recognized for his development and application of first-principles methods to compute structural, electronic, and optoelectronic properties of point defects and interfaces.

Newly discovered cyanobacteria could help sequester carbon from oceans and factories

Researchers have discovered a novel strain of cyanobacteria that can grow rapidly in high-CO2 environments, sink in water, and produce valuable commodities. The 'Chonkus' strain has traits useful for biologically-based carbon sequestration and bioproduction.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2024

Mapping the pulse of the city: innovative framework for dynamic population insight

Researchers have developed an innovative framework combining remote sensing and mobile phone data to create highly accurate monthly population maps at fine resolutions, providing detailed insights for urban planning and emergency response. The approach leverages building area, vegetation cover, and machine learning techniques to captur...

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateOct 29, 2024

Discovery of a potential molecular mechanism to reduce cardiovascular risk in 6 genetic regions through the metabolites they regulate

Researchers have identified 44 genetic regions associated with metabolite levels in the body, which can influence cardiovascular risk. The study found a potential molecular mechanism by which six genetic loci are linked to cardiovascular risk through the metabolites they regulate.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 29, 2024

The Lancet: Health threats of climate change reach record-breaking levels, as experts call for trillions of dollars spent on fossil fuels to be redirected towards protecting people’s health, lives and livelihoods

The Lancet's Countdown report reveals record-breaking human costs of climate change, including heat-related deaths increasing by 167% globally in 2023. The report calls for trillions of dollars spent on fossil fuels to be redirected towards protecting people's health and lives.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 29, 2024

Unexpected findings provide a deeper understanding of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1

A new study provides deeper understanding of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 (DM1) by revealing an unexpected link between the cardiac condition and SCN5A protein. The research found that reducing fetal SCN5A expression did not correct heart defects, suggesting alternative approaches may be needed to address the condition.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2024

A KAIST team develops face-conforming LED mask showing 340% improved efficacy in deep skin elasticity​

A KAIST team created a face-conforming LED mask with improved efficacy in skin rejuvenation. The FSLED mask demonstrated a 340% improvement in deep skin elasticity compared to conventional masks, showing significant benefits for anti-aging treatment.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 29, 2024

Weddell seals in the Antarctic strategically time their most extreme dives to maximize foraging

Researchers found that Weddell seals strategically conduct extreme dives earlier in the day to maximize their oxygen stores and foraging success. By avoiding midday dives, the seals can spend more time underwater, taking advantage of high-light conditions, which is ideal for visual hunting.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2024

People’s exposure to toxic chemicals declined in the U.S. following listing under California law

A study found that levels of toxic chemicals in people's bodies decreased both in California and nationwide following the listing of over 850 chemicals under Proposition 65. This decline suggests that the law has led to widespread reformulation of products, reducing exposure to harmful substances.

SourceSilent Spring Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 29, 2024

‘Weekend warrior’ exercise pattern may equal more frequent sessions for lowering cognitive decline risk

Research suggests that just one or two sessions of physical activity per week can lower the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, which may be more convenient for busy people than regular exercise. The 'weekend warrior' pattern was found to be associated with a 25% lower risk of cognitive decline compared to non-exercisers.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2024

Brain changes seen in lifetime cannabis users may not be causal

A large observational study found associations between cannabis use and brain structure and function changes in later life. However, genetic analysis using Mendelian randomization suggests that these associations may not be causal, with possible explanations including unmeasured variables or differences in statistical power.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Mental Health·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2024

Glycans can regulate their own biosynthesis by modifying enzyme activity

Researchers found that glycans attached to glycosylation enzymes' lectin domains inhibit the enzymes' activity, leading to self-regulation of their own biosynthesis. This unique mechanism sheds light on how glycosylation enzymes choose their substrate proteins in cells.

Strategy to reduce the amount of propofol waste in the operating room

A study published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia found that using a single syringe pump for induction and maintenance of anesthesia reduces propofol waste by 30-50%. This eco-friendly approach can also save hospitals money by reducing the number of propofol vials needed. The researchers analyzed data from over 300 surgeries and ...

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateOct 29, 2024

Transcriptomics-based study on the mechanism of heart failure amelioration by water decoction and water-soluble alkaloids of Fuzi

Researchers investigated the molecular mechanism of Fuzi's cardioprotective effects on heart failure. Fuzi water decoction and alkaloids were found to regulate apoptosis, proliferation, and anti-fibrosis in heart failure models, with ABC transporters potentially being a key pathway for their action.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalFuture Integrative Medicine·DateOct 29, 2024

Cardiovascular risk biomarkers in inflammaging

Researchers propose a comprehensive biomarker-based approach to assess cardiovascular risk by combining markers of chronic inflammation with cardiac health indicators. This approach reveals the significant impact of aging-related inflammation, or 'inflammaging,' on heart health and opens new avenues for targeted interventions.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 29, 2024

Researchers develop approach to accurately predict pneumonia outcomes

A team of researchers from Northwestern University has developed a novel machine-learning approach to accurately predict pneumonia outcomes by analyzing electronic health records. The study identifies five distinct clinical states in pneumonia, three of which are strongly associated with disease outcomes and two that can help physician...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2024

More than half of European heat-related deaths in summer 2022 attributed to anthropogenic warming

A new study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health found that more than half of European heat-related deaths in summer 2022 were related to human-induced climate change. The research showed a higher number of heat-related deaths attributed to climate change among women and people aged 80 and over.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 29, 2024

Open-access database compiles 3,500 substances measured in plastic products: Study highlights substantial knowledge gaps

A new open-access database, LitChemPlast, has compiled over 3,500 substances measured in plastic products across 47,000 samples. The study highlights substantial knowledge gaps, including contamination of recycled plastics with hazardous substances and limited regional coverage in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceFood Packaging Forum Foundation·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 29, 2024

Record-breaking Saharan dust events hit Spain between 2020 and 2022, confirms CSIC study

Researchers analyzed data from air quality monitoring stations in Spain and Portugal to reconstruct PM10 concentrations during extreme dust events. The study found that concentrations reached up to 5000 micrograms per cubic meter in the Canary Islands and exceeded EU standards.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 29, 2024

First steps towards national screening for Barrett's esophagus

Researchers found that using a multi-step strategy with less-invasive devices can identify patients with Barrett's oesophagus before an endoscopy. This approach is promising for cost-effective screening, which could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of oesophageal cancer.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 29, 2024

Discovery of cancer risk associations for six novel genes

Researchers identified six novel genes associated with a significant increase in cancer risk, including BIK for prostate cancer, ATG12 for colorectal cancer, and CMTR2 for lung and melanoma. Loss of AURKB was found to protect against any cancer type, while loss of PPP1R15A was linked to a 53% lower risk of breast cancer.

SourcedeCODE genetics·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 29, 2024

Physical activity of any intensity linked to lower risk of death after dementia diagnosis

Research finds that sustained engagement in regular physical activity before and after a dementia diagnosis is associated with the greatest reduction in risk of death, regardless of dementia type. Maintaining an exercise routine or starting new activities also reduces mortality risk, with higher levels associated with greater reductions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2024

Britain’s brass bands older than we thought and invented by soldiers from the Napoleonic Wars, new study reveals

A new study reveals that Britain's earliest brass bands were founded by military musicians in the 1810s, contradicting the long-held assumption that they emerged with industrial communities. The research, published in The Historical Journal, shows that regimental bands first experimented with all-brass formats after the Napoleonic Wars.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Historical Journal·DateOct 29, 2024

Bowel cancer breakthrough

Researchers identified three long noncoding RNAs associated with worse outcomes in colorectal cancer patients, potentially serving as prognostic markers. The study's findings could enable doctors to separate high-risk patients from those at low risk of disease recurrence, leading to more effective treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of Otago·Journalnpj Precision Oncology·DateOct 29, 2024

Subtle eye movements optimize vision

Researchers from Universitatsklinikum Bonn found that tiny eye movements and photoreceptor density in the fovea contribute to sharp vision. The study used high-resolution imaging and micro-psychophysics to demonstrate how finely tuned eye movements provide optimal sampling by cones, leading to better visual acuity.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournaleLife·DateOct 29, 2024

Study shows how social observation shapes decision making

A study found that people's choices between safe and risky options are influenced by their perception of an observer's opinion. After initial biases, participants learned to correctly predict their partners' choices and adjusted their behavior accordingly.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2024

Boosting immune cell tolerance may help prevent early pregnancy loss

A new study suggests that boosting T-regulatory cells may improve the chance of healthy pregnancy and reduce miscarriage risk. Researchers found that treatment with interleukin-2 and antibodies targeting these cells improved pregnancy outcomes in mice, reducing miscarriage rates from 30% to 11%.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2024

Survey assesses Mexican consumers’ opinions on GMO corn import ban

A recent study found that over 90% of Mexican consumers would be willing to pay a premium of up to 73% for non-genetically modified products, including chicken, eggs, and tortillas. The ban on genetically modified corn could have significant impacts on US farmers who rely heavily on Mexico as their second-largest importer.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalJournal of Food Security·TypeSurvey·DateOct 29, 2024

Noninvasive malaria test could be global game changer

A new noninvasive test using a device called the Cytophone can detect malaria without taking a single drop of blood, showing 90% sensitivity and 69% specificity in tests with adult patients diagnosed with symptomatic malaria. The technology has potential to improve detection of malaria cases and help initiate treatment.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 29, 2024

Can a positive outlook on aging lead to better cognitive performance?

A new study published in the journal Aging & Mental Health found that people with more positive expectations of aging tend to report less frequent cognitive problems and are less likely to perceive a decline in their cognitive performance over time. Researchers suggest that modifying older adults' aging expectations could support healt...

SourcePenn State·JournalAging & Mental Health·TypeSurvey·DateOct 29, 2024

New study confirms beehive fences as highly effective in reducing human-elephant conflict, but researchers warn of future risks

Researchers confirm beehive fences as highly effective in reducing human-elephant conflict, deterring 76-86.3% of elephants from raiding crops during peak seasons. However, ongoing habitat degradation and droughts may compromise the long-term effectiveness of this nature-based solution.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateOct 29, 2024

Transforming patient care: study finds bedside interdisciplinary rounds boost satisfaction for patients and providers

A study led by CU researchers reveals that bedside interdisciplinary rounds build trust between patients and healthcare providers and within teams, leading to improved care experiences. Patients reported positive feelings about being involved in their care plans, while healthcare professionals reported respect and trust among colleagues.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 29, 2024

Correlating fruit fly and human data via machine learning and systems biology results in the identification of key metabolites that impact lifespan in both species

Researchers analyzed correlations between fruit fly and human data to identify key metabolites impacting lifespan. Threonine was found to extend lifespan in flies and show promise as a therapeutic target for aging interventions.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2024

Emerging technology for extended preservation of organs for transplant requires new ethical & legal guidelines

Emerging technology allows long-term storage of human organs, addressing severe time constraints that limit organ viability. New governance and legal rules are needed to guide this application, including oversight from the FDA and ethics guidance on organ storage.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 29, 2024

The molecular mechanism of Shufeng Jiedu capsules in the treatment of influenza: A comprehensive analysis based on network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and molecular docking

The study identified 97 potential therapeutic targets for SFJD, with 27 key targets involved in antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune regulation effects. Molecular docking results showed strong interactions between core active ingredients and these targets.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalFuture Integrative Medicine·DateOct 29, 2024

Are autistic adults more vulnerable to criminal exploitation?

A recent study by Flinders University researchers challenged the common assumption that autistic adults are more prone to criminal exploitation due to difficulties in reading others' intentions. The study found that verbal intelligence and Theory of Mind were critical factors influencing vulnerability to crime, not autism diagnosis.

SourceFlinders University·JournalLaw and Human Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2024

Early intervention in patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis and myocardial fibrosis falls short of expected benefits

A new study found that early aortic valve intervention in patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis and myocardial fibrosis did not reduce the incidence of all-cause death or unplanned aortic stenosis hospitalization. However, it did show benefits in reducing emergency hospitalizations and preventing symptom development.

SNU researchers develop ultra-low power neuromorphic hardware for AI computation

Researchers at Seoul National University have developed ultra-low power neuromorphic hardware capable of performing AI computations with significant accuracy and efficiency. The technology relies on hybrid organic-inorganic materials and enables uniform ion movement across the surface, leading to high-performance neuromorphic devices.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2024

Surprise at the grain boundary

Researchers discovered five distinct grain boundary structures composed of different arrangements of icosahedral cage units, enabling dense packing of iron atoms. The formation of these quasicrystalline-like phases can be used to tailor material behavior and make materials more resilient against degradation processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2024

The dangerous pursuit of muscularity in men and adolescent boys

A systematic review found that exposure to social media posts depicting ideal muscular male bodies is directly linked to a negative body image and greater odds of resorting to anabolic-androgenic steroid use. Men are also under pressure to be physically strong, which is intrinsically linked to masculinity.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPsychology of Men & Masculinity·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 29, 2024

The couples who cope together, stay together

A new study reveals that couples living with rheumatoid arthritis who engage in joint problem-solving and emotional support experience lower depression and anxiety. The research highlights the importance of dyadic coping in improving relationship quality and patient well-being.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Journal of Rheumatology·TypeSurvey·DateOct 29, 2024

A novel probe technology for detecting native albumin activity as a biomarker in patients with hepatitis B-related cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma and its clinical applications

A novel ratiometric fluorescent probe was synthesized to detect native human albumin (HA) activity in patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Native HA activity levels were significantly higher in low albumin groups, correlating with increased severity of liver disease.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalFuture Integrative Medicine·DateOct 29, 2024

Innovative model offers new way for astonomers to analyze powerful space explosions

Astronomers can now analyze powerful space explosions more efficiently using a novel model developed by Syracuse University physicist Eric Coughlin. The model helps track the evolution of shockwaves generated during these events, enabling researchers to infer properties such as energy. Coughlin's research will aid in the detection and ...

SourceSyracuse University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 29, 2024