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Science News for September 23, 2024


Energy inefficiency and inability to downsize pose even bigger threat to low-income pensioners than loss of Winter Fuel Payments, Cambridge study suggests

A new study by University of Cambridge researchers highlights the disproportionate impact of energy inefficiency on low-income pensioners in England. The study found that even small improvements in home energy efficiency can significantly reduce annual heating costs for households in energy poverty.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·DateSep 23, 2024

20-week ultrasound in pregnancy is a key driver of disparities in prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart defects

A study found that patients with Medicaid are less likely to receive prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart defects due to lower rates of 20-week ultrasounds. The lead author believes increasing 20-week ultrasound utilization can mitigate insurance-related disparities and improve outcomes for children with CHD.

Boston Clinic’s embedded neuropsychological program helps immigrants qualify for crucial naturalization form

The Boston Clinic implemented an innovative embedded neuropsychological assessment program to improve access to disability assessments for US citizenship applicants. The program provided crucial assessments to 34 patients, with 36% qualifying for N-648 forms despite initial normal cognitive screenings.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 23, 2024

Solar-assisted two-stage catalytic membrane reactor for CO₂ splitting

Researchers designed a unique two-stage catalytic membrane reactor that uses solar irradiation to split CO₂ into CO and O₂, achieving a prominent CO₂ conversion of 35.4% and higher H₂ yield compared to traditional reactors. The reactor's design also provides flexibility for selecting membrane configurations.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

DECam confirms that early-universe quasar neighborhoods are indeed cluttered

A new study using the Dark Energy Camera has found that early-universe quasars have surrounding companion galaxies within a distance of 15 million light-years, which is consistent with expectations. However, the team also discovered that there are no companion galaxies within 60 million light-years of the quasar.

New study raises questions about validity of standard model of solar flares

A recent study tested the standard model of solar flares by comparing computer simulations with observational data from the McMath-Pierce telescope. The researchers found a significant delay in the paired chromospheric sources, which challenges the current energy transport mechanism by electron beam. This delay suggests that other fact...

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 23, 2024

Inexpensive drug can prevent cerebral palsy in premature babies

A recent Cochrane review confirms that giving women at risk of premature birth a simple magnesium sulphate infusion can prevent their babies from developing cerebral palsy. The drug costs approximately £5 (~$6.50) per dose and has been recommended by the World Health Organization since 2015.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 23, 2024

All-night lights change the behavior of fish, even into the next generation

Researchers found that artificial light at night altered the behavior of female zebrafish, causing them to swim less, stick closer together, and exhibit anxiety-like behaviors. These changes were also observed in their offspring, even after they had never been exposed to light pollution themselves.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Animal Behavior·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

Technology-assisted health coaching intervention does not improve weight loss in veterans and high-risk patients

A technology-assisted health coaching intervention called Goals for Eating and Moving (GEM) was tested in a cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 19 primary care teams. The study found that patients receiving the GEM intervention did not show significant weight loss compared to those receiving enhanced usual care, highlighting ...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 23, 2024

Dream discovery: Melatonin's key role in REM sleep revealed

Researchers have identified the melatonin MT1 receptor as a crucial regulator of REM sleep, which is essential for dreaming, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation. The discovery holds significant clinical potential for developing targeted treatments to improve the quality of life for patients affected by debilitating diseases.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuroscience·DateSep 23, 2024

How a believer becomes a skeptic

A study of mostly climate science believers found that even the strongest believers felt skeptical claims were more true when encountered a second time. This effect, known as 'truthiness,' can lead people to perceive false claims as valid if repeated enough times.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

Study of former NFL players finds 1 in 3 believe they have CTE

A new study of nearly 2,000 former NFL players shows that about one-third believe they have chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a condition linked to repeated head trauma. Players who believed they had CTE reported more cognitive problems and higher rates of treatable conditions such as depression and low testosterone.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2024

New insights into anisotropic dynamics at the Pt(211)/water interface revealed by machine learning molecular dynamics

Researchers from the University of Xiamen developed a machine learning potential to study Pt-water interfaces, revealing distinct types of water molecules and their anisotropic behavior. This understanding is crucial for elucidating interfacial processes in electrochemical reactions.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 23, 2024

Mental health issues are a common phenomenon in elite sport

A study by Amsterdam UMC found that nearly three-quarters of Dutch elite athletes report sport-related distress, while forty percent of their coaches do so as well. The most common mental health problems among athletes are related to their performance and life events, with unfavorable alcohol consumption also prevalent.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2024

Robust family medicine residency programs help residents meet scholarly output requirements

A study surveyed family medicine residency program directors in the US to assess their scholarly activity output. Most common forms of scholarly output included letters, case reports, and population health projects. Programs that exceeded ACGME standards had robust infrastructure, including mentorship and research support.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 23, 2024

WVU researchers say colleges barred from throwing money at student-athletes are offering them multimillion-dollar coaches instead

Researchers found that colleges offer multimillion-dollar coaches instead of throwing money at student-athletes, leading to an arms race in athletics. The study revealed a significant correlation between head coach salaries and team recruitment success, with higher salaries associated with better teams and more victories.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalApplied Economics·DateSep 23, 2024

Underserved patients reduce blood pressure and heart disease risk using remote monitoring program

A remote monitoring program called DIG IT improved blood pressure control and reduced heart disease risk in underserved patients. The study found that patients who used the program had a 31-point average drop in systolic blood pressure and nearly 73% reached their blood pressure goals within three months.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 23, 2024

How cranes navigate their complex world

Researchers tracked 104 cranes across Africa, Asia, and Europe, revealing impressive migrations of up to 6,400 km. The study found that crane species adjusted their movements in response to changing environmental conditions, such as temperature and resource availability, to optimize their needs.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Animal Behavior·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

Why saying you’ll ‘never retire’ may be a warning sign

A new study found that individuals with low financial knowledge are more likely to expect never retiring. Those who were overconfident in their financial knowledge also fall into this category. The findings suggest that many people who claim to never retire may be unaware of their financial situation and lack a plan for retirement.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFinancial Services Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 23, 2024

Most new recessive developmental disorder diagnoses lie within known genes

A recent study by the Wellcome Sanger Institute and GeneDx analyzed nearly 30,000 families with developmental disorders, revealing that known genes explain over 80% of cases caused by recessive genetic variants. The team identified several new genes associated with these conditions, providing answers for previously undiagnosed families...

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2024

Large-aperture differential confocal interferometric optical element measurement method

A team of scientists has proposed a high-precision measurement method for large-aperture optical elements, overcoming limitations of existing techniques. The new method uses laser differential confocal and interferometric techniques to measure multiple parameters with nanometer precision.

Firms that withdrew from Russia following Ukraine invasion earn higher consumer sentiment

Research from the University of Notre Dame found that companies that withdrew from Russian operations saw a notable increase in net brand buzz and enhanced brand consideration and purchase intent, especially those with robust ESG profiles. This suggests that socially responsible actions during geopolitical crises can magnify benefits f...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateSep 23, 2024

From chaos to order: Proteins can re-structure themselves to create important substances

Researchers at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg have observed proteins restructuring themselves to produce inositol, a key substance for metabolism. The study reveals that this process occurs in multiple similar proteins, shedding light on their functions.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

How can micro/nanorobots overcome the design and manufacturing bottleneck and drive future technological advancements?

Researchers have identified coupling design methods, composite manufacturing techniques, and future prospects for micro/nanorobots. The review explores three core functions: mobility, controllability, and load capacity, offering insights into designing high-performance MNRs.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateSep 23, 2024

Spider fangs reveal surprises

Researchers have discovered that spider fangs can cut strong materials like carbon and Kevlar with minimal force due to their unique morphology. The serrated edge of the fang allows for a secure grip, maximizing cutting efficiency and making it an effective tool for spiders.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2024

HKU chemists develop organic supramolecular crystals with high hydrogen storage performance - promising to enhance the efficiency of fuel cell vehicles

Researchers developed a controlled 'point-contact catenation strategy' to guide catenation in supramolecular crystals, achieving record-high gravimetric and balanced volumetric surface areas. This design strategy unlocks the potential of organic supramolecular crystals for onboard hydrogen storage.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

‘Litigant shopping’ for Supreme Court cases can backfire

A new study finds that 'litigant shopping' – choosing plaintiffs with specific demographic attributes – can influence public perception of the US Supreme Court. The research suggests that attorneys or political interests should carefully consider identity politics when selecting counter-stereotypical litigants to ensure desired outcomes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Journal of Politics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

Low gravity in space travel found to weaken and disrupt normal rhythm in heart muscle cells

Researchers found that low gravity conditions in space weaken and disrupt the normal rhythmic beats of human bioengineered heart tissue samples. The tissues on the International Space Station beat about half as strong as those on Earth, and developed irregular beating patterns that can cause a human heart to fail.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2024

Optical fiber based artificial compound eyes for ultrafast static and dynamic perception

Scientists have created an artificial compound eye that achieves real-time panoramic direct imaging and dynamic motion detection, surpassing natural compound eyes. The camera features a 180° field of view, ultrafast angular motion detection, and can be integrated into applications such as obstacle avoidance systems for drones and endos...

A few doctors will see some of you

A recent study found that Latino and Black family medicine doctors are more likely to participate in the Medicaid program and care for higher numbers of Medicaid patients compared to their White and Asian peers. This increase is crucial in addressing health inequities in marginalized communities.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 23, 2024

Previously unknown Neolithic society in Morocco discovered: shining light on North Africa’s role in Mediterranean prehistory

A recent study has uncovered a previously unknown farming society in Morocco, dating back to the Final Neolithic period. The site of Oued Beht reveals extensive evidence of large-scale agriculture and deep storage pits, providing significant insights into the role of North Africa in shaping Mediterranean prehistory. This discovery chal...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAntiquity·DateSep 23, 2024

The heart of the question: Who can get Medicare-covered weight loss medicine?

A new study found that up to 10 million people in the US could qualify for Medicare-covered semaglutide injections, depending on their level of cardiovascular risk. Those with higher risk scores would be eligible for full or partial coverage, potentially expanding access to this life-saving medication.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 23, 2024

Elucidating the process of smart livestock technology adoption by livestock farmers

The study reveals that farmers' decisions to adopt smart livestock technologies are driven by their understanding of the technology's benefits, ease of use, and financial resources. A generational divide is also identified, with younger farmers being more open to adopting new technologies.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

Surrogates face high risk of pregnancy and postpartum complications

Gestational carriers, also known as pregnancy surrogates, are at a higher risk for severe maternal morbidity, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and postpartum hemorrhage compared to women carrying their own pregnancies. The study found that these risks were nearly twice as high as in unassisted conception pregnancies.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateSep 23, 2024

Collaborative program between university and clinic boosts general practitioner recruitment in deprived areas of Yokohama, Japan

A collaborative program between a university and clinic has increased GP numbers from one to eight in resource-deprived areas of Yokohama. The initiative enhances clinical care, education, and research opportunities while fostering community engagement and diverse perspectives.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 23, 2024

Telemedicine improved doctors’ quality of patient care during COVID pandemic, new study shows

A new study from Binghamton University found that telemedicine enhances the quality of patient care and increases physician satisfaction. The study analyzed data from 10,302 physicians nationwide and identified key features such as videoconferencing and electronic health records integration that contributed to improved outcomes.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Informatics·TypeSurvey·DateSep 23, 2024

Older people are more swayed by the impulsive actions of others when making financial decisions – new study reveals

A new study published in Communications Psychology found that older adults (60+ years) are more susceptible to social influence when making impulsive financial decisions. In contrast, younger adults tend to stick to their original preference even after seeing others opt for the impulsive option.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCommunications Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2024

Advances in femtosecond laser synthesis and micromachining of halide perovskites

Researchers have developed femtosecond laser-induced perovskite precipitation technology, enabling high-precision patterning of perovskite materials. This technology has shown great potential in anti-counterfeiting and information storage, as well as optical displays and micro-LEDs.

New research identifies critical gaps in mental health care for adults with schizophrenia spectrum disorders

New research identifies critical gaps in mental health care for adults with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Adults with schizophrenia spectrum disorders experience high rates of comorbid conditions, such as major depressive episode and post-traumatic stress disorder. The study found that only 26% received minimally adequate treatment.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalPsychiatric Services·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 23, 2024

Carbon-trapping cement alternative ready for industry trials

A team of researchers from Aalto University has developed a bio-based binder material that can significantly reduce carbon emissions from infrastructure construction. The technology binds CO2 gas in a stable, solid carbonate form within the cementitious clay layer, making ground improvement itself carbon-negative.

SourceAalto University·JournalTransportation Geotechnics·DateSep 23, 2024

New study reveals how the brain integrates pain prediction and stimuli

Researchers used fMRI to observe brain activity in participants exposed to varying levels of pain stimuli, manipulating their expectations about the level of pain. The study found that higher-level networks integrated pain-related signals into the experience of pain by adding preserved expectation and stimulus information together.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

Paving the way for new treatments

Researchers at Mizzou have developed Cryo2Struct, a computer program that uses AI to build the three-dimensional atomic structure of large protein complexes from cryo-electron microscopy images. This breakthrough enables scientists to better understand protein interactions, critical for developing effective treatments for diseases like...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 23, 2024

CU Anschutz experts identify key opportunities to strengthen climate education for health care professionals

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has identified key opportunities to strengthen climate education for healthcare professionals. The authors propose a developmental learning model with six interconnected domains that build on foundational skills in communication and collaboration.