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Science News for September 12, 2024


Genethon announces publication in Nature Communications of a next-generation gene therapy vector for muscle diseases, using AI predictive methodology to improve efficacy and safety

Genethon has developed an innovative gene therapy vector that effectively targets muscle tissue while reducing the risk of liver penetration. The new capsid design uses AI predictive methodology to improve efficacy and safety, paving the way for more effective treatments for neuromuscular diseases.

SourceAFM-Téléthon·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2024

Researchers explain the organization of DNA in chromosomes from repetitive interactions between nucleosomes

The UAB researchers propose a multilayer structure of DNA that is fully compatible with the structural and functional properties of chromosomes. This organization can be explained by weak interactions between nucleosomes, which are repetitive blocks that fold the DNA double helix.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalSmall Structures·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2024

Path to prosperity for planet and people shrinking rapidly, scientists warn

A new report by the Earth Commission warns that inequalities and overconsumption of finite resources are key drivers of the shrinking 'Safe and Just Space', which is expected to collapse unless urgent transformations take place. The paper calls for changes in economy, resource management, and investment in sustainable technologies to r...

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateSep 12, 2024

Crude oil decimates sea otter buoyancy

Research reveals that crude oil pollution dramatically reduces sea otter fur buoyancy, placing newborn pups at risk due to their larger surface area relative to body mass. After cleaning, the buoyancy of the fur improves but not fully recovers, highlighting the need for thorough detergent rinsing.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

New fossil fish species scales up evidence of Earth’s evolutionary march

A newly discovered ancient primitive Devonian coelacanth fish, Ngamugawi wirngarri, has provided significant insights into the early anatomy of this lineage that eventually led to humans. The fossil, dating from the Devonian Period, reveals that tectonic plate activity had a profound influence on rates of coelacanth evolution.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 12, 2024

Over two-million acres of floodplain development occurred in U.S. in last two decades, study finds

A nationwide study found that over 840,000 new residential properties were built in floodplains across the US, with about 398,000 in Florida. Despite this, many communities have taken proactive measures to limit floodplain development through smart regulations and practices.

The insulator unraveled

The researchers used noncontact atomic force microscopy to analyze the surface structure and found that the surface rearranges to allow aluminum atoms to penetrate into the material. This rearrangement reduces energy and stabilizes the structure without changing its composition.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Purdue team unravels regulatory mechanism that prevents stem cell differentiation and maintains gender balance in vascular plants

A Purdue team has discovered a protein called CrHAM that regulates meristem indeterminacy, preventing stem cells from differentiating into male organs. This discovery provides insights into the stem cell proliferation process and its role in maintaining gender balance in vascular plants.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Hair-thin wire with extreme conditions

A research team has successfully created and observed extreme conditions with a much smaller laser than before. They used a copper wire finer than a human hair to simulate the pressure and temperature of stars and planets, reaching densities eight times higher than normal copper and temperatures of 100,000 degrees Celsius.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2024

Foods with low Nutri-Scores associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases

Researchers found an association between consuming foods with lower nutritional quality and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly myocardial infarction and stroke. The study used the latest version of the Nutri-Score algorithm and included over 345,000 participants from seven European countries.

Personal carbon footprint of the rich is vastly underestimated by rich and poor alike, study finds

A recent study found that both the rich and poor significantly overestimate or underestimate each other's carbon footprints, highlighting a profound inequality. The researchers surveyed 4,000 people from four countries and discovered that those in the top 10% tended to support climate policies, possibly due to higher education levels.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 12, 2024

Sex matters in how, when, and where melanomas develop

A study analyzing long-term melanoma data reveals that men and women experience different patterns of melanoma development, with women having higher rates in early life but later in life. The research also shows that melanomas arise most commonly on the trunk and head/neck in men, while on limbs in women.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2024

Ehrapy: A new open-source tool for analyzing complex health data

Ehrapy allows researchers to analyze large, heterogeneous datasets efficiently, uncovering new patterns and generating insights. The long-term goal of ehrapy is to provide a powerful tool for the research community and eventually standardize databases for electronic health records.

Smart supramolecular assemblies

The researchers synthesized supramolecular polymers with the ability to form larger complexes in response to external stimuli, which may shed light on biomolecular self-assembly and other ‘smart’ materials. The resulting shape of the assemblies can be controlled based on the concentration of a specific additive.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Retinopathy associated with hair dye

A case report describes a woman who experienced bilateral blurry vision after using hair dye with aromatic amines. The incident highlights the potential risk of retinopathy associated with certain hair dyes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateSep 12, 2024

Study finds doctors and patients interested in environmental impact of health care decisions

A recent study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers found that both doctors and patients are interested in discussing the environmental impact of healthcare decisions. The study suggests educating physicians about the environmental costs of treatment can be a first step towards addressing this issue. Patients were open to making...

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 12, 2024

The legacy of corn nitrogen fertilizer: Study shows lengthy impact in tile drained systems

A recent study from the University of Illinois provides new insights into the sources and processes affecting nitrogen load in tile drainage water. The research team found a large legacy pool of nitrate in the soil, resulting in a time lag between when nitrogen is added to the system and when it is exported as nitrate in tile drainage.

Pilot-scale reverse osmosis treatment of gold cyanidation effluent for the removal of cyanide, heavy metal(loid)s, and ionic species

Researchers found that reverse osmosis removed 99% of contaminants, including arsenic and cyanide, meeting environmental standards. This innovative method provides a scalable solution for the mining industry to improve sustainability.

SourceEscuela Superior Politecnica del Litoral·JournalCase Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

New method predicts worsening of chronic kidney disease

Researchers from Aarhus University developed a new method to predict which patients with chronic kidney failure are at risk of losing kidney function over time. The method analyzes acid-base balances in urine samples, revealing early signs of acid buildup that can be harmful to kidney function.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2024

Five key factors predict the response of cancer patients to immunotherapy

A study by IRB Barcelona researchers has identified five independent factors that determine patients' response and survival after receiving checkpoint inhibitors, a type of immunotherapy. These findings provide a framework for current and future biomarkers of immunotherapy response and could lead to more accurate patient classification.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 12, 2024

Unlocking plant potential: Regulating nature's chemical wealth through splicing

A recent study highlights alternative splicing as a key regulatory mechanism in plant secondary metabolism, influencing the synthesis of essential metabolites like terpenoids and flavonoids. The research provides new insights for bioengineering approaches to enhance plant performance and metabolite production.

Exploring ternary metal sulfides as electrocatalyst for carbon dioxide reduction reactions

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel screening methodology using machine learning to identify key design guidelines for ternary metal sulfide electrocatalysts. Focusing on crystal structure leads to better results, overcoming challenges in material properties and electrochemical performance analysis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Mitral valve repair via catheter offers better outcomes than pharmacological treatment in patients with heart failure

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrates the benefits of catheter-based mitral valve repair for patients with moderate to severe mitral regurgitation. The procedure showed a significant reduction in recurrent hospitalisations and improved quality of life after 12 months.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 12, 2024

A glimpse into the chloroplast workshop

Researchers develop novel method to study ribosomes producing D1 protein, identifying 140 additional proteins involved in its assembly. STIC2 and SRP54 proteins play key roles in correct incorporation of central proteins into thylakoid membrane.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

An exit for even the deepest rabbit holes: Personalized conversations with chatbot reduce belief in conspiracy theories

A new study finds that personalized conversations with a trained AI chatbot can significantly decrease conspiracy theory beliefs, even among deeply entrenched individuals. The researchers used Large Language Models to provide tailored counterarguments, reducing misinformed beliefs by an average of 20% and lasting for at least two months.

University of Limerick, Ireland researchers discover building blocks that could ‘revolutionize computing’

Researchers at University of Limerick have discovered new ways to probe, control, and tailor materials at the molecular scale. They've designed molecules that can process and store information efficiently, potentially leading to innovative solutions for societal challenges in health, energy, and environment.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 12, 2024

Wave scattering simulation unlocks potential for advanced metamaterials

Researchers at Macquarie University developed a new software package, TMATSOLVER, that accurately models complex wave scattering for metamaterial design. The tool enables rapid prototyping and validation of new metamaterial designs, accelerating research and development in this growing global market.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Feasibility and advantages of designing proteolysis targeting chimeras targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors for cancer treatment

Proteolysis targeting chimeras targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) show promise in overcoming challenges of PPAR-targeted therapies. They offer enhanced tumor specificity due to differential E3 ligase expression, reducing off-target effects and improving therapeutic outcomes.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalExploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine·DateSep 12, 2024

Tumor-induced B cell changes reveal potential biomarker for treatment response in triple negative breast cancer

Scientists identified two distinct patterns of B cell abnormalities, TiBA-0, TiBA-1, and TiBA-2, which are linked to an immunosuppressive effect and poorer treatment response. These biomarkers can be detected through a simple blood draw, enabling potential stratification of patients and personalized treatment.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateSep 12, 2024

Using a molecular scissors to improve CAR-T cell therapy

CAR-T cell therapy, a regenerative immunotherapy, has shown promise in treating blood cancers but struggles with T-cell exhaustion. Researchers have discovered that overproduction of the IL-4 protein causes this exhaustion and used CRISPR gene-editing technology to remove it, improving CAR-T cell therapy outcomes.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2024

Rotational symmetry breaking in deformed Reuleaux-triangle resonator simplifies exceptional point achievement

This study breaks rotational symmetry in a deformed Reuleaux-triangle resonator to achieve exceptional points, enhancing high-chirality mode and nanoparticle detection up to 4000 nm. The simplified system demonstrates superior sensor sensitivity compared to non-deformed counterparts.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Kids in families with too much screen time struggle with language skills

A recent study found that children in families with high screen use struggle with language skills, while videogames have the most significant detrimental impact. The research suggests that everyday face-to-face interactions with adults are crucial for early language development, and excessive screen time can disrupt this process.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Developmental Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateSep 12, 2024

Building dual-phase MoO2.8F0.2/MoO2.4F0.6 heterostructures through electron injection engineering enables efficient magnesium ion storage

Researchers have developed a new material that enables rapid magnesium ion storage, overcoming the issue of sluggish electrochemical reaction kinetics. The dual-phase MoO2.8F0.2/MoO2.4F0.6 heterostructure shows improved ion diffusion and electron transfer, promising advancements in rechargeable magnesium batteries.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateSep 12, 2024

Can AI talk us out of conspiracy theories?

Large language models can effectively reduce individuals' beliefs in conspiracy theories, with the effect lasting for at least two months. AI conversations challenged a wide spectrum of conspiracy theories, including those related to COVID-19 and politics, and led to shifts in behavioral intentions.

SourceMIT Sloan School of Management·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal study provides updates on rising burden of breast cancer in China

The study examines breast cancer incidence, mortality, and disease burden in China to inform urgent prevention and treatment strategies. The Age-Standardized Incidence Rate is relatively low compared to other countries, but the sheer number of cases and DALYs highlights a significant public health challenge.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2024

A new app to “uncuff” blood pressure monitoring

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed an innovative smartphone application that can measure pulse pressure, a critical metric for detecting hypertension. The app uses motion-sensing accelerometers and front cameras to calculate pulse pressure, which is closely correlated with hypertension, according to the study.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Retinal disorder diagnosis improved by new AI-powered medical imaging, study shows

Researchers have introduced DSFN to improve the speed and accuracy of diagnoses of retinal disorders. This AI-powered medical imaging technique combines retina images with vascular distribution information to accurately locate the fovea in complex clinical scenarios, enabling doctors to detect early signs of ocular diseases.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalIEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 12, 2024

Uncertain if lifestyle advice actually works

A study by the University of Gothenburg found that only 3% of lifestyle advice recommendations have positive effects in practice. The researchers suggest alternative community-based interventions for improving public health. The new guideline aims to help policymakers evaluate the effectiveness of such interventions.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeCase study·DateSep 12, 2024

SNU researchers realize a platform for long-distance signal transport of high capacity optical information

Researchers at Seoul National University have successfully realized a noise-resistant broadband signal processing platform using topological design techniques. This breakthrough enables wide bandwidth realization in two dimensions, overcoming the trade-off between signal channel number and channel bandwidth.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 12, 2024

West Antarctic ice sheet may disappear by 2300

A Dartmouth-led study projects that Antarctica's glaciers will rapidly retreat and potentially collapse by 2200, increasing global sea levels by up to 5.5 feet by 2300. The researchers used 16 ice-sheet models to refine the projection of ice loss over the next 300 years.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEarth's Future·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 12, 2024

A new tack for slack: motivate workers

A new study by the University of Texas at Austin found that acknowledging employees' efforts, rather than their abilities, boosts overall productivity in companies with remote workers. Praising effort-focused messages, especially those that are personally identifiable, can have a significant impact on employee motivation and performance.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalMIS Quarterly·DateSep 12, 2024

Deep learning for strain field customization in bioreactor with dielectric elastomer actuator array

Researchers developed a deep learning method to customize complex strain fields in bioreactors using dielectric elastomer actuator arrays. The method achieved precise control over individual actuators, replicating biomechanically significant strain fields and customizing them based on tumor-stroma interfaces.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateSep 12, 2024

Urbanization has impacted the population genetic structure of the Eurasian red squirrel in Japan within a short period of 30 years

A 30-year study reveals urbanization has decreased genetic diversity and increased genetic distance among Eurasian red squirrels in Japan. Gene flow between urban and rural populations remains through green spaces, but urban areas have become genetically isolated.

Uptick in drug overdose rates is widely reported especially among young women

A significant increase in drug overdose rates was recorded in Colombia between 2010 and 2021, with a notable rise among young women. The study found that the pandemic contributed to higher levels of anxiety and mental health problems, leading to overuse of drugs, particularly tranquilizers/sedatives/antidepressants.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 12, 2024

Rapid new blood diagnostic test for ALS

A highly accurate diagnostic blood test has been developed for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects neurons in the brain and spinal cord. The test requires only a simple blood draw and can distinguish between ALS patients and healthy controls with an overall accuracy of up to 98%.

SourceBrain Chemistry Labs·JournalBrain Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Babies born to women consuming a high fat, sugary diet at greater risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes in later life

Research found that babies born to pregnant women consuming high-fat, high-energy diets are more likely to develop heart problems and diabetes as adults due to fetal damage. Consuming a high-fat diet during pregnancy also increases the likelihood of insulin resistance in adulthood.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024

Antarctica’s receding sea ice could impact seabirds’ food supply

New research using satellite technology tracks the movement of albatrosses and petrels, finding that they use sea ice-affected parts of the ocean for feeding and scavenging. The study suggests that Antarctica's shrinking sea ice could force seabirds to travel further or alter their food patterns, affecting ecosystems.

SourceDurham University·JournalProgress In Oceanography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2024

BMI’s relation to cancer therapy mortality risks not so straightforward

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that body mass index (BMI) has a more complex relationship with mortality risk during cancer therapy than previously thought. For patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, higher BMI was associated with lower mortality when undergoing immunotherapy or conventional chemotherapy. Howe...

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateSep 12, 2024

Polar molecules dance to the tunes of microwaves

Researchers at JILA successfully engineered controllable systems that replicate the universe's most interesting phenomena by manipulating ultracold potassium-rubidium molecules using Floquet engineering. The technique produced two-axis twisting dynamics, generating entangled states for enhanced quantum sensing and precision measurements.

SourceJILA·JournalNature·DateSep 12, 2024

Tailored microbe communities

Researchers from Aachen University of Technology, HHU and Michigan State University create artificial microbial communities using computer models. These communities can perform specific functions, such as disease mitigation or CO2 capture, and are designed to be scalable and versatile.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalSynthetic Biology·DateSep 12, 2024

Social messaging in soap operas can prevent violence and intergroup conflict

A study by Rezarta Bilali found that narrative interventions in soap operas can increase intergroup trust, promote role-modeling, and encourage people to create change in conflict-ridden areas. The research used experiments with radio and TV dramas across the world, showing positive effects of storytelling in shaping norms and raising ...

SourceNew York University·JournalEuropean Review of Social Psychology·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 12, 2024

Ignore antifungal resistance in fungal disease at your peril, warn top scientists

The World Health Organisation accounts for around 3.8 million deaths annually from fungal pathogens that are either resistant or rapidly acquiring resistance to antifungal drugs. The narrow focus on bacteria will not combat antimicrobial resistance effectively, and the authors demand a broader discussion on fungal pathogens.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalThe Lancet·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 12, 2024