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Science News for October 30, 2024


Dartmouth’s Center for Technology and Behavioral Health launches collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim to develop digital health tools to help patients and providers

The partnership aims to create, study, and implement digital health solutions to address mental and behavioral health conditions. Researchers will use ecological momentary assessment and digital sensors on a patient's mobile phone to monitor cognitive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia.

LSU Health New Orleans’ School of Public Health receives $2.3 million grant to study benefits of combining lung cancer screenings and smoking cessation in African Americans

African Americans are disproportionately affected by lung cancer, with lower rates of diagnosis and treatment compared to white individuals. The new research project aims to combine lung cancer screenings and smoking cessation to increase application and cessation behaviors among this population.

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered a cancer mechanism that can eliminate tumors – even those resistant to immunotherapy

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a new cancer mechanism that prevents the immune system from attacking tumors. The discovery was made by reversing this mechanism, which stimulates the immune system to fight cancer cells, including those resistant to prevailing forms of immunotherapy.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2024

Toxic metals found in wildfire suppressants

A study by USC researchers estimates that 850,000 pounds of toxic metals have been released into the environment in the Western US from 2009-2021. The team found a range of heavy metals, including chromium and cadmium used as corrosion inhibitors, as well as arsenic in phosphate ores.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Blue Monday

Researchers analyzed data from 1971 to 2019 and found that Mondays and New Year's Day were universally correlated with elevated suicide risk. In contrast, weekends and other public holidays varied by region, highlighting the importance of recognizing temporal fluctuations in risk for preventive actions.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalBMJ·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 30, 2024

Buried Alive: Carbon dioxide release from magma deep beneath ancient volcanoes was a hidden driver of Earth’s past climate

A Rutgers-led study reveals that ancient volcanoes continued to emit carbon dioxide from deep beneath the Earth's surface, contributing to prolonged climate warming during key moments in Earth's history. This 'cryptic carbon' was found to have lasted millions of years after surface eruptions had ceased.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2024

Turning silver to gold: A diacetylene derivative-based metallic luster materials

Scientists create diacetylene derivative-based luster materials with tunable colors and metallic lusters, opening new possibilities for applications in jewelry, printing inks, and cosmetics. The developed material can express a golden luster selectively using light irradiation, minimizing environmental footprint and weight.

SourceChiba University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

New study shows that university students experienced increased psychological distress during COVID-19, but utilized fewer support services

A new study by George Mason University researchers found that US university students experienced increased psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic, but fewer used mental health services. The study highlights a disproportionate impact on underrepresented groups, particularly women of color.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalFrontiers·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2024

Three pathways to achieve global climate and sustainable development goals

Researchers at PIK found that three sustainable development pathways are far more effective than current 'business as usual' strategies, driving progress towards SDGs while curbing global warming and environmental degradation. The pathways include a rapid shift to plant-based nutrition and reduced energy use per capita.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2024

Tumor dormancy initiated by lymphovascular embolus

Researchers discovered that tumor dormancy in breast cancer can be triggered by specific signaling changes within small cell clusters, called tumor emboli. Key mechanisms include reduced activity of mTOR and structural shifts in E-cadherin, which are regulated by the PI3K pathway.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeNews article·DateOct 30, 2024

Optica Quantum October 2024 Issue Press Tip Sheet

The new issue of Optica Quantum features 10 research articles on quantum information science and technology. New methods for compensating scattering and aberrations in entangled photon systems have been proposed, and ultrafast nonlinear wave mixing spectroscopy schemes employing coherent light pulses and vacuum modes are being explored.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica Quantum·DateOct 30, 2024

How many typhoons will make landfall on Taiwan Island this year?

Researchers developed a statistical seasonal forecasting model to predict typhoons landing on Taiwan Island by mid-May, achieving an accuracy rate of 98% for the period 1979-2022. The model utilizes four pre-typhoon-season environmental predictors and will benefit disaster prevention and mitigation efforts.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateOct 30, 2024

New insights into mango evolution: study reveals extensive hybridization within the Mangifera genus

A study on the genetic diversity of mango species reveals extensive cross-hybridization among species, offering implications for breeding and conservation efforts. The research provides a detailed genetic framework for understanding how hybridization has shaped the Mangifera genus, shedding light on the evolution of mangoes.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalTropical Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

How researchers can maximize biological insights using animal-tracking devices

A group of international researchers presents a framework for using biologging data to test scientific theories and generate ecological insights. The framework emphasizes the power of theory-driven research and highlights the potential of biologgers to inform hypotheses and refine ecological theories.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 30, 2024

Large-scale programmable logic array achieves complex computations

Researchers developed a large-scale optical programmable logic array that can execute complex models like Conway's Game of Life, marking a significant advancement in optical computing. The array uses parallel spectrum modulation to achieve an 8-input system, significantly expanding the capabilities of optical logic operations.

Algae research provides insight on immune health

A new study by University of Texas at Arlington researchers found that living with symbiotic algae weakens the immune system of jellyfish, making them more vulnerable to infections. This finding has important implications for coral reef conservation and human disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Introduction to the World Urine Project

Researchers from China, UK, and US formed the World Urine Project to explore urine's potential as an early warning system for diseases. The initiative establishes a shared database for accurate and personalized diagnosis, aiming to transform reactive medicine.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvances in Biomarker Sciences and Technology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 30, 2024

Solar-powered animal cells

Scientists have successfully integrated chloroplasts from algae into hamster cells, allowing the cells to undergo photosynthesis and producing oxygen and energy. This breakthrough could lead to the development of artificial tissues that can grow in size without limitations due to low oxygen levels, paving the way for innovative biotech...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the Japan Academy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Complexity of tumors revealed in 3D

Researchers have created detailed 3D maps of multiple tumor types, revealing how cells are organized within the tumor and how it changes when spreading to other organs. These maps could lead to new approaches in therapy and transform the way cancer is understood and treated.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 30, 2024

New study shows combination therapy slows cognitive decline in at-risk populations

A new study led by CAMH shows that a combination of therapies can slow cognitive decline in older adults with conditions increasing the risk of dementia. Participants receiving Cognitive Remediation plus transcranial direct current stimulation experienced slower cognitive decline compared to those receiving a control intervention.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 30, 2024

Double strike against blood cancer

Scientists have identified a molecular mechanism that eliminates defective cells during faulty cell division, shedding new light on the fundamental processes involved. The discovery could lead to more effective treatments for blood cancer by targeting cells with multiple centrosomes, which are a hallmark of disrupted division.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers identify disparities in healthcare system point of entry for pediatric concussion care

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified disparities in pediatric concussion care, finding that non-Hispanic Black children and those with public insurance are more likely to be seen first for a concussion in the emergency department. This suggests that establishing up-to-date community-level resources could improv...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2024

Unlocking the secrets of cancer metastasis: MSK study provides new insights, potential therapeutic opportunities

A new MSK study has identified patterns in how cancer cells reprogram themselves during metastasis, providing new details on cellular plasticity. The research team compared samples from patients with advanced colorectal cancer and found clear patterns in the way metastatic cells change their identity to access early cell states.

NIH study demonstrates long-term benefits of weight-loss surgery in young people

A recent NIH study found that young people with severe obesity who underwent weight-loss surgery between ages 15 and 18 continued to see significant improvements in health outcomes, including reduced type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and abnormal cholesterol levels. The study, known as Teen LABS, suggests that bariatric surgery may offer ...

Subcycle conservation law in strong-field ionization

Researchers have identified a subcycle conservation law between angular momentum and energy during strong-field ionization, as revealed by the analysis of correlated spectrum of angular momentum and energy. This law remains applicable down to the subcycle level, offering new understanding of light-matter interactions.

SourceUltrafast Science·JournalUltrafast Science·DateOct 30, 2024

Brighter nights and darker days could lead to an early grave

A study of over 13 million hours of data found that exposure to bright nights and dark days is associated with an increased risk of death. Those exposed to high levels of light at night had a 21–34% increased risk, while those exposed to high levels of daylight had a 17–34% reduction in their risk of death.

SourceFlinders University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2024

Communication with doctor during first visit affects pain patients’ outcomes

A recent study found that effective physician-patient communication during the initial consultation helps patients manage their uncertainties, including fears, anxieties, and confidence in coping with their condition. The study revealed that informational competence and socioemotional communication competence are crucial for reducing p...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalHealth Communication·TypeSurvey·DateOct 30, 2024

Healthy brains suppress inappropriate immune responses

Scientists discovered that fragments of immune-stimulating proteins, called guardian peptides, are produced by the brain and spinal cord to maintain a healthy balance between defending against injury and infection and guarding healthy tissue. These peptides activate regulatory T cells to dampen abnormal immune reactions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

New study by Tepper School researcher finds honesty-humility is key to auditors monitoring quality

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers reveals that auditors with high honesty-humility scores are more likely to report financial misstatements, while those with low scores do not. This suggests that screening auditors for honesty-humility could enhance monitoring quality and prevent costly oversight failures.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNegotiation and Conflict Management Research·DateOct 30, 2024

ACS research finds lack of health insurance coverage contributes to racial and ethnic disparities in advanced-stage diagnosis of multiple cancers

A new study by the American Cancer Society found that lack of health insurance coverage accounts for significant racial and ethnic disparities in advanced-stage cancer diagnoses. The findings highlight the importance of access to healthcare in reducing these disparities.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 30, 2024

Personality traits may explain how individuals accumulate daily physical activity and sedentary behavior

A study from the University of Jyväskylä found associations between personality traits and daily physical activity and sedentary behavior. Individuals with high conscientiousness and extraversion tend to accumulate longer periods of both, while those with higher neuroticism interrupt their sedentary behavior more often.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateOct 30, 2024

Novel artificial intelligence-based method for pathological diagnosis of hereditary kidney diseases

Researchers developed an AI-based method to analyze kidney lesions in female patients with Alport syndrome, predicting renal prognosis and guiding treatment interventions. The approach uses a modified stain and deep learning to detect basement membrane lesions, showing a positive correlation with proteinuria concentration.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 30, 2024

Can we protect nerve cells from dying?

Alzheimer's researchers identify specific inhibitors that prevent nerve cell loss and improve social recognition memory in mouse models. The study sheds light on the molecular sequence of events leading to cellular demise and opens up new research avenues for halting or preventing brain damage.

SourceVlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Spin current observations from organic semiconductor side

A team at Osaka Metropolitan University has designed a multilayer device to investigate spin currents, using an organic semiconductor material with a long spin relaxation time. This allows direct observation of phenomena due to spin current generation and enables researchers to gain deeper insights into the properties of spin currents.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Combining VR and non-invasive brain stimulation: a neurotechnology that boosts spatial memory without surgery

Researchers at EPFL have created a unique experimental setup combining non-invasive deep-brain stimulation, virtual reality training, and fMRI imaging to improve spatial memory. The study shows that targeted electric impulses to the hippocampus can temporarily increase brain plasticity, leading to better navigation and recall.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 2024

Droughts’ impact on pasturelands is measured in order toguide extensive livestock management on Spain’s dehesas

A study on Spanish dehesas has developed a tool to model pastureland productivity and water stress, allowing for more efficient grazing management. During severe droughts, grass production can drop by up to 67%, with areas having limited slopes and moderate tree cover being the most productive.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalAgricultural Water Management·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

The roots of fear: Understanding the amygdala

Scientists at UC Davis have identified new clusters of cells with differing gene expression patterns in the human and non-human primate amygdala. These findings suggest that alterations in specific cell types may contribute to disorders such as anxiety, and could lead to more targeted treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Keeping close watch on stem cells

Researchers at Osaka University have created an innovative device called INSPCTOR that enables real-time remote monitoring of cell growth in incubators. This technology allows for effective quality control and precise measurement of cellular transformation, which is crucial for advancements in regenerative medicine and drug discovery.

SourceOsaka University·JournalLab on a Chip·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 30, 2024

New method to analyze complex genetic data could be the key to tackling rare diseases

A new genetic analysis method called Genomic Informational Theory (GIFT) has been developed to extract more precise data than previously used methods. GIFT is capable of analyzing large datasets and extracting novel information that was previously unavailable through genome-wide association studies (GWASs).

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPhysiological Genomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2024

Effect of different calcium sulfate aspect ratios and chitosan addition methods on the interface properties of calcium sulfate/chitosan composite bone cement

Research investigates effect of calcium sulfate aspect ratios and chitosan addition methods on interface properties of calcium sulfate/chitosan composite bone cement. Short rod calcium sulfate displays better interface adhesion, setting time, compressive strength, and biocompatibility.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm – Biomaterials and Applications·DateOct 30, 2024

Professional body continues to misinform on palliative medicine doctors’ stance on assisted dying

A group of palliative medicine consultants criticize the APM's strong opposition to legalizing assisted dying, arguing it undercuts confidence in palliative care and stifles open discussion. They propose a more nuanced approach, acknowledging that end-of-life decisions should be made with trained healthcare professionals involved.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 30, 2024

The ‘urban revolution’ was slow in Bronze Age Arabia

The ancient town of al-Natah in northern Arabia provides insights into early urbanization, characterized by a central district, residential districts, and protective ramparts. The site represents a transitional stage between mobile pastoralism and complex urban settlements, with estimated 500 residents.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2024

New Illinois study explores adoption of robotic weeding to fight superweeds

A new University of Illinois study examines the adoption of robotic weeding technology to fight superweeds, finding that forward-looking management strategies are more effective than myopic approaches. The research suggests that farmers with a long-term perspective on weed resistance will benefit from early adoption of robots.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgricultural Economics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2024

After a heart attack, the heart signals to the brain to increase sleep to promote healing

A new study found that the heart sends signals to the brain to increase sleep after a heart attack, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. This communication between the heart and brain is mediated through the immune system and can lead to improved recovery and reduced risk of further cardiovascular events.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 30, 2024

Kessler Foundation scientist to explore effects of transcutaneous spinal stimulation's impact on motor recovery in traumatic brain injury

A four-year study funded by a $2.5 million grant will investigate the impact of spinal cord transcutaneous stimulation combined with gait training on motor recovery in individuals with traumatic brain injury. The research aims to improve clinical treatment strategies and decision-making for improved gait and functional recovery.

SourceKessler Foundation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 30, 2024

Long COVID inflammation damages the heart

Researchers found elevated levels of cytokines in the blood of long COVID patients, which could explain cardiovascular symptoms. The study also showed that these trace-level cytokines had a direct effect on cardiomyocytes, the heart's pumping cells.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2024

Data-driven, cost-effective roadmap for cutting US methane emissions 30% by 2030 published in a new peer-reviewed paper

A new paper assesses current and potential measures to cut US methane emissions in the oil and gas sector, proposing a complimentary, cost-effective strategy using anaerobic digestion (AD) of organic waste. Building ADs could reduce emissions by 31.5%, exceeding the 30x30 goal.

SourceEnergy Vision·JournalBiofuels Bioproducts and Biorefining·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 30, 2024

Study shows natural regrowth of tropical forests has immense potential to address environmental concerns

A new study published in Nature found that up to 215 million hectares of land in tropical regions around the world has the potential to naturally regrow, storing 23.4 gigatons of carbon over 30 years. The study identified areas with high regrowth potential based on factors such as soil quality and proximity to existing forest.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2024

Health, financial and social support resources can help to maintain subjective well-being from the age of fifty until very old age

A new study by University of Eastern Finland researchers shows that life satisfaction remains high until very old age, but eudaemonic quality of life declines after 70. Having sufficient personal resources, such as health, financial, and social resources, can help maintain subjective well-being from age 50 to very old age.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalWellbeing Space and Society·DateOct 30, 2024

'Black box' of stem cell transplants opened in world-first blood study

Researchers tracked the long-term dynamics of transplanted stem cells in patients' bodies up to three decades post-transplant. They found that younger donors produce more vital stem cells, while older donors experience reduced immunity and higher relapse risk. The study provides new insights into donor selection and transplant success.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2024

A review on carbon emissions of global shipping

The study examines carbon emissions from global shipping, revealing significant differences in historical trends due to estimation uncertainties. Emission reductions can be achieved through measures like shore power, electric boats, and zero-carbon fuels, with increasing electric ship adoption expected to contribute the most.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalMarine Development·DateOct 30, 2024

Improving deer health one test at a time

A recent study by Mizzou researchers found that infections are a significant problem for white-tailed deer on Missouri farms. The study identified the three most common types of bacteria causing pneumonia in farmed deer, providing actionable data for veterinarians and farmers to make informed decisions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

For these little robots, two heads are better than one

Scientists at Princeton University develop a system of two robots connected by flexible tether, enabling them to solve complex problems like maze navigation and object gathering. The innovative approach harnesses physical characteristics rather than digital calculation to achieve remarkable abilities.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Giant rats could soon fight illegal wildlife trade by sniffing out elephant tusk and rhino horn

Researchers have trained African giant pouched rats to detect illegally trafficked wildlife species, including pangolin scales, elephant ivory, rhino horn, and African blackwood. The rats showed perfect retention scores after months of non-exposure, suggesting their cognitive performance resembles that of dogs.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Conservation Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

University of Toronto study uncovers new role for cell’s waste disposal system in spread of pancreatic cancer

Researchers discovered that INPP4B drives the movement of lysosomes to the periphery of pancreatic cancer cells, releasing their contents into the extracellular space and disrupting the structural support network. This process enables the cells to migrate and invade other tissues, making it easier for the cancer to spread.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024