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Science News for September 4, 2024


Both cats and dogs often enjoy playing fetch with their owners

A study published in PLOS ONE found that 4 in 10 cat owners report their feline companions playing fetch, while 78% of dog owners say their canine friends engage in the behavior. The research also highlights differences in fetching behavior between breeds and demographic factors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateSep 4, 2024

Uncollected waste and open burning leading causes of the plastic pollution crisis

A new study from the University of Leeds reveals that uncollected waste and open burning of plastic waste are major contributors to the plastic pollution crisis. The research estimates that 52 million tonnes of plastic products entered the environment in 2020, with over two-thirds of it coming from uncollected rubbish.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 4, 2024

Researchers: No – pet owners do not have better mental health

Contrary to popular assumptions, a new study found that pet ownership does not improve mental health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, pet owners reported slightly worse mental health symptoms compared to non-owners. However, owning pets may help alleviate loneliness, particularly among individuals living alone.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMental Health & Prevention·TypeSurvey·DateSep 4, 2024

In world 1st, high-quality feline iPSCs generated without genetic footprint

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have successfully generated high-quality feline induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) without a genetic footprint. These cells exhibit properties similar to human iPSCs and can differentiate into various cell types, making them a promising tool for veterinary regenerative medicine research.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalRegenerative Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

Travel could be the best defense against ageing

Researchers from Edith Cowan University suggest that travel could have positive health benefits, including slowing down the signs of ageing. Positive travel experiences enhance individuals' physical and mental wellness through exposure to novel environments, engagement in physical activities, and fostering of positive emotions.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalJournal of Travel Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2024

The signals in your brain that tell you when It’s time to move

A new study published in Nature Communications suggests that slow fluctuations in neural activity can give rise to the spontaneous actions we take. The researchers propose that these slow background fluctuations emerge from networks of neurons and contribute to a threshold-crossing event, which may underlie movement and other phenomena.

SourceChapman University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2024

Adding anti-clotting drugs to stroke care ineffective, clinical trial finds

A clinical trial led by Washington University School of Medicine found that two anti-coagulant drugs did not improve outcomes for patients who received vessel-clearing interventions after a blood clot in the brain. The study aimed to test whether adding these medications could prevent further clots, but results showed no benefit.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 4, 2024

Uncovering the specialized immune cells that fight COVID-19

A team of researchers from Osaka University has pinpointed the B cells responsible for boosting COVID-19 immunity after vaccination. They found that activated atypical B cells are the main responders to mRNA vaccines, providing a new way to assess vaccine response and underlying biology.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

CABBI team designs efficient bioenergy crops that need less water to grow

Researchers at CABBI used genetic engineering to improve water use efficiency in climate-friendly C4 crops like sorghum and sugarcane, maximizing biomass production while minimizing water usage. The breakthrough could aid crops in mitigating drought stress and support the development of a sustainable bioeconomy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

Notre Dame researchers create new tool to analyze embodied carbon in more than 1 million buildings in Chicago

Notre Dame researchers have created a new tool to analyze embodied carbon in over 1 million buildings in Chicago, providing policymakers with actionable data to inform urban development decisions. The study found that extending the lifespan of buildings and reducing their size can decrease carbon emissions by two-thirds.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalCarbon Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 4, 2024

Survey shows nearly 70% of US hospitals affiliated with medical schools host a fast-food restaurant; Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s among most common

A new survey by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine found that 69.2% of U.S. hospitals affiliated with a medical school host at least one fast-food restaurant. The most common fast-food chains include Starbucks, Subway, Chick-fil-A, Au Bon Pain, and McDonald's.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateSep 4, 2024

Obesity may increase susceptibility to contracting COVID-19

A new study by Mass General Brigham has found that obesity may be an important risk factor for infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Individuals with obesity were 34% more likely to become COVID positive after reported exposure than those without obesity, indicating a possible link between obesity and increased transmission risk.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2024

H5 influenza vaccines: what needs to be done to reduce the risk of a pandemic

The authors recommend short-term voluntary vaccination of farm workers at exposure risk, medium-term refreshment of vaccine stockpiles, and long-term exploration of pre-pandemic immunization strategies to build population immunity. They call on global partners and governments to address H5N1 and other pandemic influenza threats through...

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 4, 2024

Children switch to walking and cycling to school after introduction of London’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone

A new study found that four in ten children in Central London switched to walking or cycling after the ULEZ was introduced, while only two in ten in Luton made this switch. This shift is linked to reduced air pollution and increased physical activity, with benefits for children's health and development.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2024

New filter removes chemical contaminants from water even at very low concentrations

A team of researchers has developed a new membrane material that can detect and remove pharmaceutical chemicals from water at trace levels. The new approach uses a polymer membrane with an interconnected network of pores, which are designed to capture larger molecules, allowing for more effective filtration.

Three top ways to stop smoking

A major new review of evidence has identified three top ways to stop smoking: combining behaviour support with medication like bupropion or nicotine replacement therapy. The Cochrane Tobacco Addiction Group's systematic reviews also found strong evidence for behavioural counselling and financial incentives.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 4, 2024

Neurological symptoms are common - and similar- in severely ill children with different conditions

A new study by ISGlobal reveals that nearly half of children with severe illnesses in low- and middle-income countries exhibit neurological symptoms before death. The most common causes of death were lack of oxygen, meningitis, and cerebral malaria. However, lumbar punctures are seldom performed, making diagnosis challenging.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2024

Air pollution linked to higher risk of infertility in men

A Danish study found long-term exposure to air pollution and road traffic noise increases the risk of infertility in both men and women. Men exposed to higher levels of PM2.5 had a 24% increased risk of infertility, while women over 35 years old exposed to louder road traffic noise had a 14% increased risk.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2024

Novel biomarker could lead to early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, pilot study suggests

Researchers have identified a unique biomarker in human blood serum that shows potential for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. The study's findings suggest that this test could be used to diagnose AD before cognitive decline or symptoms become apparent, enabling earlier lifestyle changes and medication to slow disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalMetallomics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 4, 2024

New population model identifies phases of human dispersal across Europe

The 'Our Way Model' reveals four phases of human dispersal, including a slow expansion from the Levant to western Europe and rapid advancements into previously unsettled areas. Climate change significantly impacted human dispersal, with periods of severe cold and warming influencing population growth and decline.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 4, 2024

Music can reveal which areas of the brain are affected by aging

A new study from Aarhus University reveals that older individuals' brains work harder to compensate for age-related changes in memory function when listening to familiar music. The study uses classical music by Johann Sebastian Bach to map brain activity and identify potential biomarkers for dementia.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 4, 2024

Sage announces new journal, Dialogues on Climate Change

The new journal aims to facilitate constructive dialogues among scholars from diverse disciplines, including social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities. It will publish work by academics globally, promoting informed conversations, bridging divides, and inspiring meaningful climate action.

SourceSAGE·JournalDialogues on Climate Change·DateSep 4, 2024

Achieving a supercapacitor through the 'molecular coating' approach

Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully increased capacitor capacity by 2.4 times using a molecular coating method, improving its performance and lifespan. The new technology utilizes inexpensive activated carbon and can store large amounts of energy, making it suitable for next-generation energy devices.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 4, 2024

New UMass study shows that ‘super spikes’ can increase track running speed by 2%

Researchers found that super spikes improve running speeds by 2%, with some brands performing better than others, and athletes taking longer steps rather than faster ones. The study used a novel protocol to capture the impact of shoe design on middle-distance track performance.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Sport and Health Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 4, 2024

First narrow-spectrum antibiotic successfully eliminates Fusobacterium nucleatum in breakthrough study at the ADA Forsyth institute

A new narrow-spectrum antibiotic, FP 100, has been found to effectively eliminate Fusobacterium nucleatum without harming the oral or gut microbiomes. This breakthrough discovery holds significant implications for treating severe gum disease and preventing related systemic conditions such as colon cancer and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalJournal of Oral Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

Samples from bottled water, tap water and household-treated tap water in San Francisco Bay Area indicate that all sources may have potential health risks, largely from trihalomethanes

A study of bottled, tap, and household-treated water in the San Francisco Bay Area found potential health risks from trihalomethanes in all sampled sources. The researchers analyzed various types of drinking water, including samples collected directly from households, to determine their chemical compositions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Water·DateSep 4, 2024

New research shows regular mobile phone use can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, especially in smokers and people with diabetes

A large-scale prospective cohort study found a positive association between regular mobile phone use and incident cardiovascular disease risk, particularly in smokers and individuals with diabetes. Poor sleep patterns, psychological distress, and neuroticism may be key mechanisms underlying this association.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 4, 2024

Study finds when self-determination model provided to schools with support, teachers and all students benefit

Researchers found that providing robust supports to teachers enables better educational outcomes for all students, including those with disabilities. The study showed that students who set goals under the SDLMI demonstrated improved motivation and academic achievement.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalTeacher Education and Special Education The Journal of the Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 4, 2024

NUS artificial intelligence platform demonstrates promising results in effectively treating a patient with a rare cancer

A team at NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine leveraged an artificial intelligence-derived platform, CURATE.AI, to guide treatment for a patient with Waldenström macroglobulinemia, a rare blood disorder. The trial demonstrated substantial improvement in red blood cell levels and minimised side effects.

NASA’s Webb reveals distorted galaxy forming cosmic question mark

Astronomers used NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to observe a galaxy cluster that acts as a magnifying glass, allowing them to see enhanced detail in distant galaxies. The red galaxy revealed by Webb is being magnified and distorted in an unusual way, providing clues about the formation of galaxies billions of light-years ago.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 4, 2024

New study finds associations between use of skin care products and exposure to potential developmental toxicants

A new study found associations between the use of skin care products and exposure to phthalates and endocrine-disrupting chemicals in young children. The research, led by George Mason University professor Michael S. Bloom, suggests that different skin care products used by children may increase their risk of exposure to these chemicals...

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2024

A new advancement in photonic chips set to unlock an industry

Researchers have developed a new engineering approach to on-chip light sources, enabling the widespread adoption of photonic chips in consumer electronics. The innovation involves growing high-quality multi-quantum well nanowires using a novel facet engineering approach, which enables precise control over the diameter and length of the...

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

As dogs age, their owner-assessed quality of life predictably declines, with higher mortality seen at quality of life below 76% of the maximum score – though many dogs have high quality of life even when at predicted lifespan

The study found that senior dog quality of life decline is linked to higher mortality rates when scores fall below 76% of the maximum. Many older dogs still have high quality of life despite predicted lifespan, indicating individual variability.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 2024

Fungal infection: A protein weakens the immune system

A study by researchers from Brazil and Germany found that a surface protein on Aspergillus fumigatus spores suppresses the release of pro-inflammatory substances by immune cells, making it easier for the fungus to infect the body. The enzyme glycosylasparaginase plays a crucial role in this process.

Infections following hip replacement associated with an increased risk of death, study finds

Patients with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total hip replacement have a five-fold increased risk of mortality within 10 years. Researchers found that PJI patients had a significantly higher 10-year mortality rate than those who didn't develop an infection, highlighting the need for prevention efforts and best practice gui...

SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2024

Unlocking the decomposition limitations of the Li₂C₂O₄ for highly efficient cathode preliathiations

Researchers from Harbin Institute of Technology propose a catalytic strategy to modulate the mass transport and decomposition reaction kinetics of Li₂C₂O₄. The study reveals single-atom Ni sites promote significantly promoted decomposition kinetics, increasing decomposition efficiency by 786%.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

Effects and consequences of cardiac metabolism in the elderly

Research explores relationship between cardiac metabolism dysfunction and heart failure in the elderly, revealing potential therapeutic targets for improved cardiac outcomes. The study highlights the critical role of Pdk4 and MIF in cardiac metabolism, suggesting innovative treatments to manage interconnected cardiovascular conditions.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 4, 2024

The targeting of WNT5B and WNT10B in osteosarcoma

Researchers identify key genes involved in osteoblast differentiation, finding positive correlations between WNT10B and these genes, and inverse correlations with WNT5B. The study hypothesizes that the use of WNT activators or inhibitors depends on whether canonical or non-canonical pathways are activated.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeNews article·DateSep 4, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal reports on emerging trends and implications of non-communicable diseases in China

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are a major global health issue, characterized by their chronic nature and long-term impact on quality of life. In China, understanding the extent and distribution of NCDs is essential for developing effective public health strategies.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 4, 2024

The world's first nuclear clock

Scientists at TU Wien and JILA/NIST have successfully created the world's first nuclear clock, leveraging thorium atomic nuclei to achieve ultra-high precision measurements. The breakthrough combines a high-precision optical atomic clock with a high-energy laser system, setting the stage for future improvements in precision.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

Photosynthesis in near darkness

A new study reveals that Arctic microalgae can build up biomass through photosynthesis as early as March, despite barely above the horizon sun. This discovery shows that photosynthesis is possible under much lower light conditions than previously assumed, potentially expanding the global ocean's photosynthetic habitat.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

Why is the estimation and resource utilization of livestock and poultry manure important?

The study estimates the temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of livestock and poultry manure production in Shaanxi Province, highlighting areas with high environmental pollution risks. Accurate estimation provides data support for policy formulation and promotes sustainable development of the livestock industry.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2024

Strictest abortion-ban states offer least family support

A Northwestern University study reveals that states with severe post-Dobbs abortion restrictions also lack policies to support families, particularly those of low socioeconomic status and marginalized individuals. The authors argue that advocates should leverage child protection arguments to advocate for improved family welfare policies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 4, 2024

New gene for "spindle hair" decoded

Researchers at the University Hospital Bonn identified a new gene, KRT31, responsible for dominantly-inherited monilethrix, a rare congenital form of hair loss. The discovery improves diagnosis and sheds light on the genetic mechanism underlying this condition.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateSep 4, 2024

Cardiac rehabilitation knowledge, attitudes, and practice among patients with heart failure and cardiology healthcare providers

A study examines cardiac rehabilitation (CR) knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) among patients with heart failure and cardiology healthcare providers. Key findings highlight the importance of proper knowledge and attitudes in effective self-management, indicating potential room for improvement.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateSep 4, 2024

Chiral quantum heating and cooling with an optically controlled ion

The study reveals the link between chirality and heat exchange in a quantum system, highlighting the role of non-adiabatic transitions and the Landau-Zener-Stückelberg process. The experiment paves the way for new explorations in quantum thermodynamics and efficient quantum chiral devices.

Flexible tentacle electrodes precisely record brain activity

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed ultra-flexible tentacle electrodes that can precisely record brain activity over extended periods, enabling detailed analysis of neural activity. The technology has the potential to diagnose and treat neurological disorders such as epilepsy, depression, and schizophrenia.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2024

Air pollution and mortality: global study reveals persistent health risks despite declining pollutant levels

A global study using data from the Multi-Country Multi-City Collaborative Research Network found that air pollution remains a significant threat to public health, despite lower pollutant concentrations. The study analyzed the impact of particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide on mortality rates in urban areas over a 22-year period.