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Science News for September 24, 2024


Purdue researchers acquire and analyze data through AI network that predicts maize yield

Purdue researchers have developed an AI model that can predict maize yield using remote sensing data and environmental factors. The model, which combines hyperspectral cameras, LiDAR instruments, and genetic markers, can categorize healthy and stressed crops before farmers or scouts can spot a difference.

SourcePurdue University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024

New insights into hot carrier solar cells: Increasing generation and extraction

Researchers have made breakthroughs in hot carrier solar cells by studying electron tunneling and collection, increasing generation and extraction. The study revealed that a new system comprising AlGaAs and GaAs materials can harness valley photovoltaics and realize solar cells beyond the current single bandgap limits.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

Nursing shortages can be deadly

A new study found that nursing shortages result in longer hospital stays and worse patient outcomes, including higher mortality rates. Understaffing by registered nurses and nurse assistants is associated with increased risks of adverse events, such as readmissions, deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and pressure ulcers.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBJS·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 24, 2024

Atmospheric methane increase during pandemic due primarily to wetland flooding

A new analysis reveals that increased inundation and water storage in wetlands drove the record surge in atmospheric methane emissions from 2020 to 2022. Wetland microbes produce methane as they metabolize organic matter anaerobically, leading to a significant increase in release to the atmosphere.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024

Review shows bird flu control strategies ‘not working’

A review highlights gaps in data collection and testing mechanisms for H5N1 influenza transmission between cows and humans, posing risks of silent spread through farm worker barracks or developing countries. The authors emphasize the need for new control strategies, including vaccination, to mitigate the potential for a human pandemic

SourceThe Pirbright Institute·JournalNature·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 24, 2024

UNDER EMBARGO: Mount Sinai study identifies link between prediabetes during adolescence and young adulthood with the likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes

A Mount Sinai study links prediabetes among young people with a higher likelihood of gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. The findings highlight the need for clear clinical guidance on screening and counseling youth with elevated blood glucose levels.

Extinct volcanoes a ‘rich’ source of rare earth elements

Researchers have discovered that iron-rich extinct volcanoes are up to 100 times more efficient at concentrating rare earth metals than active volcanoes. This finding suggests that these ancient volcanoes could be studied for their potential to contain rare earth elements, which are crucial for renewable energy technologies.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·TypeObservational study·DateSep 24, 2024

Planting seeds for safer farming

Researchers aim to reduce PFAS contamination risk in agriculture by developing monitoring tools and strategies for remediation. The study focuses on comprehensively understanding PFAS uptake and bioaccumulation in plants, advancing strategies for PFAS remediation in biosolid/soil.

Histotripsy liver tumor trial successful, early clinical adoption recommended

The #HOPE4LIVER trial demonstrated the safety and efficacy of histotripsy as a treatment for primary and metastatic liver tumors, achieving a 95% technical success rate. The procedure's non-invasive nature and ability to spare critical vessels and bile ducts offer promising alternatives to traditional treatments.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalRadiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 24, 2024

New catalyst developed for sustainable propylene production from biomass

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new catalyst that efficiently converts a derivative of glycerol into bio-based propylene, contributing to sustainable chemical production. The catalyst enables the selective reduction of allyl alcohol to propylene with high efficiency using renewable energy sources.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

Heterostructure VO2@VS2 tailored by one-step hydrothermal synthesis for stable and highly efficient Zn-ion storage

Researchers from Qingdao University synthesized VO2@VS2 hollow nanospheres via one-step hydrothermal synthesis, creating a highly efficient cathode material for zinc-ion batteries. The heterostructure enhances battery performance with a reversible capacity of 468 mAh g−1 and 85% retention after 1000 cycles.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

New species of flatworm invading the United States

A new species of flatworm, Amaga pseudobama, has been discovered in the southern United States and is already present in several states. The species resembles Obama nungara, a European invasive species, making it difficult to distinguish from citizen science data.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateSep 24, 2024

Fossils from the Adriatic Sea show a recent and worrying reversal of fortunes

The study found a recent reversal of fortunes in the Adriatic Sea, with populations of marine predators and their prey plummeting and being replaced by a single species. The researchers used seafloor environments to determine interactions between species, showing a decline in biodiversity and excess nutrients.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateSep 24, 2024

Prediabetes during adolescence and young adulthood linked with likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes

Research conducted at Columbia Mailman School of Public Health found a link between prediabetes among young people and adverse pregnancy outcomes later in life. The study, which included over 14,000 individuals aged 10-24 years, found that preconception prediabetes was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, hyperten...

Multilingual gossip in Elizabethan London

Researchers uncovered evidence of state monitoring of migrant gossip in multiple languages, with churches aiming to have 'eyes everywhere'. The average person would hear multiple languages daily, and records kept by churches reveal the voices of regular people.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalTransactions of the Royal Historical Society·DateSep 24, 2024

Global prevalence of short-sightedness in children and teens set to top 740 million cases by 2050

The global prevalence of myopia is projected to exceed 740 million cases by 2050, with females, East Asians, and those in urban areas showing higher rates. The condition's impact on children and teens is expected to be significant, with low and middle-income countries predicted to have a higher prevalence than high-income countries.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 24, 2024

Nearly 200 potential mammary carcinogens found in food contact materials: new study highlights regulatory shortcomings

Researchers have identified nearly 200 potential breast carcinogens in food contact materials, including plastics and paper, highlighting widespread exposure despite existing regulation. The findings emphasize the need for stronger preventative measures to reduce these chemicals in everyday products.

SourceFood Packaging Forum Foundation·JournalFrontiers in Toxicology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 24, 2024

Study reveals shifting landscape of UN human rights discourse

A new study reveals a significant evolution in the UN's approach to human rights, with growing emphasis on disability and business-related rights. The research highlights the importance of corporate responsibility and suggests a move toward a more comprehensive understanding of human rights that encompasses economic and social rights.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalHuman Rights Law Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024

Tropical and subtropical industrial fisheries account for about 70% of the methylmercury fished from the ocean

Industrial fishing practices in tropical and subtropical waters release high levels of methylmercury into the ocean. The majority of this mercury is found in large pelagic fish like tuna, which are then consumed by humans. This can lead to developmental delays in children and impaired cardiovascular health in adults.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2024

How male hormones regulate skeletal muscle function

Researchers found that androgens regulate skeletal muscle mass by regulating IGF1 expression via AR expressed in mesenchymal progenitors of skeletal muscle. This suggests a potential new treatment for sarcopenia, an age-related loss of skeletal muscle weight.

SourceEhime University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2024

Graphene spike mat and fridge magnet technology to fight against antibiotic resistance

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a graphene-based, ultra-thin antibacterial material that can kill 99.9% of bacteria on surfaces, including medical devices and implants. The new technology uses fridge magnet technology to control the orientation of graphene flakes, making it possible for practical applica...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024

Absolute and functional iron deficiency in the US

A significant proportion of American adults suffer from absolute and functional iron deficiency, which can lead to adverse health outcomes. The study highlights the importance of screening strategies for iron deficiency, as it is a common issue that may be overlooked or undertreated.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 24, 2024

New tool quantifies cancer’s ability to shape-shift

A new analytical tool called PATH can quantify tumor cell plasticity, which is a key characteristic of cancer that leads to treatment resistance and metastatic spread. Researchers used PATH to analyze tumor samples from animal models and human patients, revealing new details of how tumors exploit plasticity to spread.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 24, 2024

Finding the sweet spot: Machine learning reveals factors for successful crowdfunding

Researchers from the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that campaign size, social capital, and reward options are top factors in success. Machine learning identified a sweet spot for campaign duration and reward options, with success plateauing after 50 options.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Business Venturing Design·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 24, 2024

Diagnosing respiratory infections with breath

A proof-of-concept study introduces a medical device that measures protease activity in human breath to diagnose lower respiratory tract infections. The system showed elevated levels of human neutrophil elastase in patients with confirmed lower respiratory tract infections, suggesting its potential for rapid and non-invasive diagnosis.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 24, 2024

Study shows rates of e-bike injuries rise fourfold and powered scooter injuries nearly double

A new study reveals a significant increase in e-bike and powered scooter injuries between 2019 and 2022, with rates rising by 293% and 88%, respectively. The research highlights the need to improve micromobility injury surveillance and identify strategies for cities to promote safe user practices.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 24, 2024

With curtailed carbon emissions, corals can survive climate change

Researchers at UH Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology identified scenarios under which eight coral species can adapt to ocean warming and acidification. The corals can survive a 'low climate change scenario' but not a 'business-as-usual' scenario, highlighting the importance of curtailing carbon emissions for their survival.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 24, 2024

Atmospheric blocking slows ocean-driven melting of Greenland’s largest glacier tongue

Researchers at the Alfred Wegener Institute found that atmospheric blocking slowed the melting of Greenland's 79° N Glacier by cooling Atlantic seawater flowing into its cavern. This change had significant implications for the future of Greenland's glaciers, as warmer ocean temperatures typically accelerate ice melting.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 24, 2024

President Obama 2012 reelection linked to significantly better mental health in Black men — but only those with a college education

College-educated Black men experienced nearly three fewer poor mental health days per month following Obama's reelection, while less educated men saw worse mental health. The researchers suspect that feelings of disappointment and relative deprivation theory may explain the shift in mental health benefits.

SourceRice University·JournalDu Bois Review Social Science Research on Race·TypeSurvey·DateSep 24, 2024

The impact of AI on specific jobs

A study using machine learning to analyze patents and job task descriptions found that AI is likely to augment rather than replace many jobs. The most impacted occupations included orthodontists, security guards, and air traffic controllers.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 24, 2024

Study offers improvements to food quality computer predictions

A study from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture has improved food quality computer predictions by using human perception data. The researchers trained a computer model to mimic human adaptation to environmental conditions, resulting in more consistent predictions under different lighting conditions.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalJournal of Food Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024

The curious immune cells caught between worlds

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered that innate-like T cells mature differently in humans than in mice, with age playing a critical role in their development. This finding has significant implications for the development of immunotherapeutics, highlighting the need to consider human-specific differences when te...

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 24, 2024

Researchers unpack sign language’s visual advantage

Researchers propose that sign language classifiers are integrated into the grammar through pictorial representation, appearing in a comic book-like order. This visualization mechanism allows for greater flexibility and complexity in language, complementing standard words with iconic expressions.

SourceNew York University·JournalLinguistics and Philosophy·DateSep 24, 2024

Well-being as student success

Well-being is defined as a sense of belonging, agency, purpose, identity, civic engagement, and financial well-being. The authors summarize data-backed teaching practices supporting elements of student well-being, including supportive mentorships and experiential learning opportunities.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 24, 2024

Common brain network detected among veterans with traumatic brain injury could protect against PTSD

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have identified a specific brain circuit that may protect against post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans with traumatic brain injury. The study suggests using neurostimulation therapies on this circuit could treat PTSD, offering a new potential non-invasive treatment option.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeObservational study·DateSep 24, 2024

How a butterfly invasion minimizes genetic diversity

A Europe-wide invasion of the southern small white butterfly has led to a significant loss of genetic diversity within the species. The insect's expansion into new areas is facilitated by urbanization and its preference for human-designed habitats, but this comes at the cost of reduced genetic variation.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 24, 2024

Mechanism behind autophagy trigger unveiled

A research team led by Osaka University has identified a new mechanism crucial for the initiation of autophagy, a self-degradation process cells use to eliminate unneeded or damaged components. The palmitoylation of ULK1 by ZDHHC13 plays a critical role in this process.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

SNU researchers develop ‘Selective Metal Films Deposition Technique’ enabling fabrication of soft electronics with various form factors

The research team developed a printing-based selective metal thin film deposition technique, enabling the fabrication of high-performance soft electronic devices and circuits in various forms. The method utilizes polymer patterns to block metal vapor condensation, allowing for patterning on multi-curvature or elastic substrates.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

Thinking about the future: Examining the exacerbating and attenuating factors of despair-induced climate burnout

Researchers found that contemplating pragmatic steps and fostering a sense of community can combat climate burnout. People are more likely to experience burnout when feeling despair about tackling climate change, but imagining a positive future where the crisis has been addressed can reduce disengagement.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateSep 24, 2024

Robust AUC maximization for classification with pairwise confidence comparisons

Researchers proposed a new method, PC-AUC, to improve weakly-supervised learning frameworks for classification tasks. The method utilizes pairwise comparison data to maximize the area under the ROC curve (AUC), demonstrating its effectiveness on multiple datasets. Further leveraging unlabeled data could enhance performance in the future.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

Rensselaer researcher overcomes portfolio optimization limitations with new approach

A new approach has been developed by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Chanaka Edirisinghe and Jaehwan Jeong to improve portfolio selection in the context of high-dimensional, small-sample problems. The method uses data-driven techniques such as leverage control and norm constraints to minimize risk and maximize returns.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalThe Journal of Portfolio Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 24, 2024

Clinical trial results show low-intensity therapy can achieve positive outcomes for certain pediatric leukemia subtypes

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that patients with ETV6::RUNX1 and high-hyperdiploid B-ALL can achieve positive outcomes with low-intensity chemotherapy, tailoring treatment based on genetic subtypes and early treatment response. This approach reduces side effects and improves event-free survival rates.