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Science News for September 10, 2024


Experimental blood test predicts risk for developing COPD, other severe respiratory diseases

A new preclinical blood test identifies adults most likely to develop severe respiratory conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), by analyzing 32 proteins that accurately predict lung health data. The risk score indicates a high likelihood of hospital care, COPD development, and respiratory disease death.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 10, 2024

Beyond needles: Introducing a new, nature-based approach for delivering cargo into egg cells

A new method called VitelloTag has been developed at the Marine Biological Laboratory, allowing researchers to deliver miniature research tools into egg cells and embryos. The approach uses a yolk protein found in most animals to bind to the receptor on the egg cell surface, enabling efficient delivery of CRISPR-Cas9.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalDevelopment·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Thanks to humans, Salish Sea waters are too noisy for resident orcas to hunt successfully

Underwater noise pollution from human activities significantly impacts the ability of orcas to hunt successfully in the Salish Sea. The study found that increased ambient noise levels, particularly around vessel propellers, interfere with echolocation behavior and hunting efforts. This hindrance affects females more than males, potenti...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 10, 2024

New law regulating out-of-pocket drug spending saves cancer patients more than $7,000 a year, study finds

A new study by Michigan Medicine found that the Inflation Reduction Act's limit on Medicare Part D spending leads to significant savings for cancer patients prescribed oral chemotherapy. The average annual cost for these medications decreased from $11,284 in 2023 to $3,927 in 2024, resulting in median cost savings of $7,260.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 10, 2024

Games, puzzles and reading can slow cognitive decline in the elderly — even in those with mild cognitive impairment

Research from Texas A&M University School of Public Health suggests that older adults with mild cognitive impairment who engage in high levels of activities such as word games and hobbies have better memory, working memory, attention and processing speed than those who do not. The study found that six million people in the US have deme...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Cognitive Enhancement·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 10, 2024

The central role played by Indigenous Peoples in biodiversity conservation needs to be properly and accurately recognized by science

A recent study published in Nature questions the scientific validity of the long-held claim that 80% of the world's biodiversity is found in Indigenous Peoples' territories. The research highlights the need to correct this figure, as it oversimplifies the complex relationship between Indigenous Peoples and biodiversity.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 10, 2024

New class of weekly insulin as effective as daily injections for managing blood sugar in patients with type 1 diabetes; but higher rates of hypoglycaemia means vigilance needed (QWINT-5)

A new class of weekly insulin, efsitora alfa, has been shown to be non-inferior to daily injections in managing blood sugar levels in patients with type 1 diabetes. However, the study found higher rates of hypoglycaemia, highlighting the need for vigilance in dose initiation and optimization.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 10, 2024

Smart researchers unveil study linking EV charging stations to increased local business activity

A study by Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology found that installing EVCS boosted spending at nearby establishments by 1.4% in 2019, leading to an overall increase of USD 6.7 million. Strategically placed EVCS also stimulated consumer spending in underprivileged areas, creating potential catalysts for economic growth.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 10, 2024

Methane emissions are rising faster than ever

Global methane emissions have risen by 61 million tons over the past two decades, primarily from coal mining, oil and gas production, and cattle ranching. Human activities are increasingly linked to wetland and freshwater methane emissions, posing a significant threat to climate change.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 10, 2024

Towards a better understanding of epigenetics and dynamic gene silencing and reactivation

A recent study by Nara Institute of Science and Technology reveals a new mechanism for dynamic gene silencing and reactivation, highlighting the intricate roles of proteins like SDG7. The research team identified a competitive interaction between SDGs and PRC2 at PREs, allowing for efficient gene activation through H3K36 methylation.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

UBCO study explores access to psychedelics for therapeutic use

A UBCO study found that patients face barriers when discussing psychedelics with physicians due to stigma and perceived lack of knowledge. The study analyzed data from 800 adults who use psychedelics, revealing that nearly 60% felt less satisfied with communication about psychedelics compared to previous conversations.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalPsychedelic Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 10, 2024

Toxicologic profile and anti-nociceptive effect of two semi-synthetic triterpene derivatives from combretum leprosum in mice

The study investigates the toxicologic profile and anti-nociceptive effect of two semi-synthetic triterpene derivatives from Combretum leprosum in mice. The results indicate that these compounds exhibit low cytotoxicity, inhibit zymosan-induced writhing response, and modulate nitrite/nitrate levels and SOD activity.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateSep 10, 2024

Not in the mood for sex after menopause?

A new study finds that cognitive behavioral therapy significantly improves multiple areas of sexual functioning, body image and couple satisfaction, while reducing menopause symptoms, depression, and anxiety. Researchers report a high level of participant satisfaction with the treatment.

New study accelerates AI-based particle size probe for medication manufacturing

A new study introduces a faster approach to analyzing scattered light, enabling real-time monitoring of medication manufacturing. The technique reduces reconstruction time from 15 seconds to 0.25 seconds and offers a low-cost non-invasive particle size probe for efficient production.

Viruses to enhance crop performance

Researchers at Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) propose using viral vectors to introduce specific genes into crops, improving their traits such as drought tolerance and nutritional value. The approach is considered more efficient and sustainable than traditional breeding methods.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalNature Reviews Bioengineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Evolving the framework of cancer theory

Researchers propose a new approach to understanding cancer evolution, acknowledging the importance of environmental influences and epigenetic changes. By refining the clonal evolution model, they aim to develop more effective cancer therapies that consider the full complexity of cancer cell evolution.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Reviews Cancer·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 10, 2024

Report: Conscientiousness, not willpower, is a reliable predictor of success

Researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that conscientiousness, not self-control or willpower, is a key factor in achieving lifelong success. Conscientious individuals tend to be more industrious and organized, leading to better academic and financial outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCurrent Opinion in Psychology·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 10, 2024

The glug of it all

Researchers Rohit Velankar and his father Sachin Velankar discovered that flexible containers drain faster but produce smaller glugs, contradicting initial assumptions. Their experiment used sensors to measure pressure oscillations in different types of bottles.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 10, 2024

Gene therapy effective in hereditary blindness

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet successfully used gene therapy to improve vision in 11 out of 12 patients with Bothnia dystrophy, a form of hereditary blindness. The treatment involved injecting a specially designed virus under the retina, which produced normal protein and restored visual function.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2024

GIST researchers develop new defect passivation strategy for perovskite solar cells

A team of GIST researchers developed a new defect passivation strategy for polycrystalline perovskites, leading to improved power conversion efficiency and long-term operational stability. The strategy uses a chemically identical polytype of perovskite to suppress defects in the crystal structure.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Follow the cellular road

Researchers have successfully visualized and tracked specific cells in deep brain tissue, including along the corpus callosum's nerve fibre highway. This advancement could potentially lead to better diagnostic tools for glioblastoma, a deadly brain cancer.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2024

Unprecedented heatwave on the Tibetan plateau: A new study highlights land-atmosphere interactions

A new study reveals that soil moisture played a significant role in amplifying the intensity of the heatwave, particularly in high-altitude areas. Atmospheric circulation also contributed to the extreme temperatures, highlighting the need for further research on climate effects of heatwaves in unexpected places.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalWeather and Climate Extremes·DateSep 10, 2024

Bringing electricity to the smallest villages is not likely to reduce poverty

A new study by University of Maryland researchers found that village size plays a crucial role in determining the economic impact of electrification. Villages with populations over 2,000 people experience significant benefits, including doubled household expenditure and growth in microenterprises. In contrast, smaller villages see litt...

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Political Economy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 10, 2024

HKUST researchers develop innovative method to simplify manufacturing process of cellular ceramic

Researchers at HKUST developed a novel approach to manufacture geometrically complex cellular ceramics using surface-tension-assisted two-step processing. This method overcomes traditional additive manufacturing limitations, enabling the production of programmable and highly precise ceramic architectures.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Molecular level changes translate to big efficiency gains for organic solar cells

Researchers from Osaka University have synthesized a new molecule that increases the power conversion efficiency of organic solar cells. The molecule's design reduces exciton binding energy, making it easier to convert sunlight into current. This breakthrough paves the way for high-performance and large-scale photovoltaic applications.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Study: Educators say Iowa’s divisive concepts law complicates teaching CONTACT: Sharita Forrest, Research Editor 217-244-1072; slforres@Illinois.edu

A study of Iowa teachers and administrators found that the state's 2021 law banning instruction on divisive concepts stifles efforts to promote just and inclusive schools. The law, House File 802, hampers students' learning about injustice and creates hostile work environments for educators engaged in social justice discussions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEducational Policy·TypeCase study·DateSep 10, 2024

Like father, like daughter

A new study published in the journal JCI Insight found that male mice fed high-cholesterol diets have increased cardiovascular disease risk in their female offspring. The researchers used a novel method to study sperm small RNA and discovered altered molecules that affect gene expression in early embryonic stem cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

KAIST finds ways for bacteria to produce PET-like materials​

Researchers at KAIST have successfully developed a microbial strain that efficiently produces aromatic polyester using systems metabolic engineering. The team achieved the world's highest concentration (12.3±0.1 g/L) for efficient production of poly(PhLA), demonstrating the possibility of industrial-level production.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 10, 2024

Is hormone therapy good for heart health?

A new study based on Women's Health Initiative data suggests that certain estrogen-based hormone therapies may have a beneficial impact on cardiovascular biomarkers, except for triglycerides. The study found significant improvements in HDL-C and LDL-C levels, as well as reductions in insulin resistance and lipoprotein(a) levels.

​​​​​​​Study identifies areas of Europe at risk from dengue fever due to spread of Asian tiger mosquito

A new study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology predicts high-risk towns across Europe for dengue fever outbreaks, with southern France and northern Italy being most affected. The research uses advanced high-resolution modeling to provide daily risk assessments for each area.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 10, 2024

Unaffordable food putting mums-to-be at risk

Research from Newcastle University finds that pregnant women with limited access to affordable food are up to four times more likely to experience poor mental health. The study also reveals increased risks of obesity, pregnancy-related diabetes, and dental problems.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 10, 2024

Circulation: A new mechanism of early-onset atherosclerosis in a premature aging syndrome

Researchers at CNIC have identified endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition as a novel mechanism in premature atherosclerosis in progeria. The study proposes a new therapeutic target for this disease and highlights the importance of investigating rare diseases like progeria.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCirculation·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Dyslexia and ADHD share genetic links, DNA study shows

A DNA study by the University of Edinburgh has identified shared genetic links between dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), affecting approximately 10% of the population. The study found that specific genetic regions overlap between the two conditions, with some genes shared between them.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 10, 2024

Finding the right path(way) to reduce fat accumulation in the liver

A team at Medical University of South Carolina identified a pathway to reduce fat accumulation in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). They used a novel stem cell platform and screened 1,100 compounds to find five that more than halved fat droplets on treated liver cells.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

University of Barcelona team describes new biochemistry for RNA at low temperatures

A University of Barcelona team has described new biochemistry for RNA at low temperatures, revealing unexpected novel structures that emerge below 20°C. This phenomenon is believed to be universal and common to all RNA molecules, with implications for the biochemistry and biological functions of RNA.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Study indicates delayed feedback enhances learning performance in individuals with traumatic brain injury

A novel study found that delayed feedback improves learning outcomes for individuals with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury. Delayed feedback may engage brain regions associated with memory retrieval and confidence, bypassing impaired pathways. The study suggests a valuable tool for improving learning in TBI individuals.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 10, 2024

World’s strongest battery paves way for light, energy-efficient vehicles

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have created a world-leading structural battery that can halve the weight of laptops and make mobile phones as thin as credit cards. The battery has increased its stiffness, allowing it to be used in vehicles, increasing their driving range by up to 70 percent on a single charge.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024