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Science News for January 8, 2025


Regular physical activity before cancer diagnosis may lower progression and death risks

A study published in BJSP found that individuals with stage 1 cancers who engaged in low to moderate levels of physical activity had lower rates of disease progression and death compared to those with no recorded physical activity. Physical activity was associated with a 16-47% lower risk of disease progression and death, respectively.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2025

Herbivore or carnivore? – A new toolbox for the study of extinct reptiles

Researchers compiled a reference framework of isotope compositions indicating the type of diet for extant reptiles, providing a useful dataset to reconstruct the diet of fossil reptiles. The analysis showed that calcium isotope ratios are higher in insectivorous reptiles and lower in herbivores and carnivores.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateJan 8, 2025

Synthetic chemicals and chemical products require a new regulatory and legal approach to safeguard children’s health

A report by the Consortium for Children's Environmental Health calls for new laws to test chemicals for safety and toxicity before they enter markets. The authors propose a more precautionary approach to prioritize health protection over unconstrained production of synthetic chemicals and plastics.

SourceBoston College·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 8, 2025

How people make life's biggest decisions

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Human Development identified five key dimensions of transformative life decisions: conflicting cues, change of self, uncertain experiential value, irreversibility, and risk. The study proposes simple decision strategies to address these dimensions, including tallying, ideal self-realization, lear...

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJan 8, 2025

Researchers unravel a novel mechanism regulating gene expression in the brain that could guide solutions to circadian and other disorders

Researchers have identified a novel mechanism controlling circadian gene expression and behavioral rhythms through chemical bonding of monoamine neurotransmitters to histone proteins. This discovery could lead to targeted therapies for conditions involving circadian rhythm disruptions, such as insomnia and depression.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Researchers shed light on how to predict which skin cancer patients are most likely to respond to immunotherapy

A new study has identified macrophage activity as a key predictor of which skin cancer patients are most likely to respond to immunotherapy. The findings aim to improve personalized medicine for cancer patients and enable clinicians to select effective treatments, reducing side effects and costs.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJCO Oncology Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Proximity effect: Method allows advanced materials to gain new property

Researchers at Penn State have discovered a method to create ferroelectric materials without chemical modifications, offering promising future impacts on electronic devices. The technique, called proximity ferroelectricity, enables the creation of ferroelectric materials by stacking them with another ferroelectric material.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Exposure to aircraft noise linked to worse heart function

A new study found that exposure to high aircraft noise levels can lead to stiffer and thicker heart muscles, increasing the risk of poor heart function and major cardiac events. People exposed to night-time aircraft noise were particularly at risk, with increased risks of heart attacks, life-threatening rhythms, and strokes.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2025

MA3C: Enhancing communication robustness in multi-agent learning through adaptable auxiliary multi-agent adversary generation

The MA3C method proposes an adaptable approach to generate auxiliary multi-agent adversaries for robust communication-based policies. It overcomes existing challenges and achieves superior performance on various cooperative multi-agent benchmarks, showcasing its high generalization ability.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Fulfilling the promise of noninvasive brain stimulation as a precision medicine tool - A free webinar from the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation

A free webinar by Brain & Behavior Research Foundation presents advancements in neurobiology of fight-or-flight responding and its targeting using noninvasive brain stimulation technologies. The discussion focuses on transcranial magnetic stimulation and focused ultrasound for developing new treatments.

Study finds deadly bacteria behave differently in Saudi Arabia compared with rest of world

A recent study found that multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae exhibits distinct characteristics in Saudi Arabia, with molecular factors contributing to increased virulence and severity. The researchers highlight the need for tailored surveillance programs and new antimicrobial agents to address this local threat.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEmerging Microbes & Infections·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Climate change linked with worse HIV prevention and care

Climate change is associated with poorer HIV prevention outcomes, including reduced testing and increased risk behaviors, leading to higher new infections and poorer treatment adherence. Researchers identified links between extreme weather events and HIV-related challenges, emphasizing the need for innovative interventions and strategies.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCurrent Opinion in Infectious Diseases·DateJan 8, 2025

Does job strain compromise long-term sleep quality?

A recent study published in the American Journal of Industrial Medicine found that high job strain at the start of a nine-year study led to increased sleep disturbances among middle-aged workers. The study analyzed data from over 1,700 workers and discovered significant associations between higher job strain and poorer sleep quality.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Industrial Medicine·DateJan 8, 2025

Countering the next phase of antivaccine activism

Peter Hotez proposes a focus on local data, improved benefit-risk communications, and state-level action to counter US antivaccine sentiment. Childhood vaccinations are becoming increasingly politicized, with multiple preventable illnesses emerging, including whooping cough and measles.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 8, 2025

Montana State graduate students publish new explorations of wheat stem sawfly management

Two MSU graduate students have published new research on managing the devastating wheat stem sawfly pest, with a focus on promoting parasitoid biocontrols and using remote sensing techniques to predict infestations. Their work aims to develop sustainable solutions for agricultural producers in Montana.

SourceMontana State University·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2025

High performance in frosty conditions

Researchers have demonstrated the suitability of a new electrode material, lithium titanium phosphate, for use in lithium-ion batteries in cold environments. The material's negative thermal expansion properties facilitate storage and transport of lithium ions, maintaining high performance at low temperatures.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Scientists show how sleep deprived brain permits intrusive thoughts

A new study reveals that sleep deprivation can inhibit the brain's ability to suppress unwanted memories and intrusive thoughts. Researchers found that well-rested individuals showed more activation in a specific brain region when attempting to suppress memories, while sleep-deprived individuals struggled with this task.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2025

When the past meets the future: Innovative drone mapping unlocks secrets of Bronze Age ‘mega fortress’ in the Caucasus

Researchers at Cranfield University used drone mapping to uncover a 3000-year-old mega fortress in the Caucasus, which was found to be significantly larger than initially thought. The site's complex structure and landscape evolution provide new insights into Late Bronze Age and Early Iron Age societies.

SourceCranfield University·JournalAntiquity·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2025

Major youth science innovation award for digital health expert at City University of Hong Kong

Professor Yu Xinge, a leading digital health expert, has been awarded the 3rd Zhong Nanshan Youth Science and Technology Innovation Award for his groundbreaking research on bio-integrated electronics. His wearable products aim to monitor health conditions and improve treatment efficiency and accuracy.

AI could improve the success of IVF treatment

Researchers used Explainable AI techniques to analyze data from over 19,000 patients undergoing IVF treatment. They found that delivering the hormone injection when a greater proportion of follicles were sized between 13-18mm linked to higher rates of mature eggs being retrieved and improved pregnancy rates.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2025

Using AI to predict the outcome of aggressive skin cancers

A team of researchers developed a web-based system called 'DeepMerkel' to predict Merkel cell carcinoma treatment specific outcomes based on personal and tumour specific features. The system was able to accurately identify high-risk patients at an earlier stage, enabling informed clinical decision making and improved patient choice.

SourceNewcastle University·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 8, 2025

New AI predicts inner workings of cells

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have developed an AI method that can accurately predict the activity of genes within any human cell, revealing the cell's inner mechanisms. The system can also uncover hidden biology of diseased cells and explore the role of genome's 'dark matter' in cancer and other diseases.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Intermittent fasting is effective for weight loss and improves cardiovascular health in people with obesity problems

A 12-week study found that intermittent fasting, especially time-restricted eating, leads to greater weight loss and reduced abdominal subcutaneous fat compared to a nutrition education programme. This study suggests that this strategy can be an effective method for improving cardiovascular health in people with obesity problems.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 8, 2025

New technique for investigating sense of smell in fish

Researchers have identified nine distinct cell types with unique transcriptional profiles in the olfactory epithelium of zebrafish after exposure to conspecific alarm substances. This discovery provides a valuable avenue for exploring cellular diversity and assessing genetic profiles from behavioral perspectives.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater Biology and Security·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Researchers call for legislative reform to improve transparency in drug company payments to healthcare professionals

A new analysis reveals critical gaps in the UK's self-regulated system for disclosing payments from drug companies to healthcare professionals and organisations. The study finds billions of pounds in untraceable research payments and non-research payments lack clarity, with significant breaches by major companies. Researchers are calli...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalBMJ Evidence-Based Medicine·DateJan 8, 2025

Scientists leverage artificial intelligence to fast-track methane mitigation strategies in animal agriculture

A team of scientists at USDA and Iowa State University used generative AI to identify compounds that can reduce enteric methane emissions in cows. Bromoform, a naturally occurring compound found in seaweed, showed promise in reducing methane production by 80-98% when fed to cattle.

Researchers tune active sites of bimetallic catalysts with atomic precision

Scientists developed a method to densely populate and precisely position isolated Pt atoms on α-Fe nanoparticles, enhancing the intrinsic activity of hydrogenation reactions. This achievement resolves the activity-selectivity trade-off in hydrogenation reactions by fine-tuning the coordination environment of the active site.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChem·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 8, 2025

Presenting a path forward for future genetically-modified pig heart transplants: lessons learned from second patient

Researchers from the University of Maryland School of Medicine analyzed the second patient to receive a genetically-modified pig organ, identifying key factors contributing to rejection and highlighting areas for improvement. The study provides valuable insights into how to prevent graft failure in future transplants.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeCase study·DateJan 8, 2025

Study sheds light on depression in community-dwelling older adults

A recent study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that engaging in volunteering activities can significantly reduce the odds of depression in community-dwelling older adults. The study, which analyzed data from over 2,900 participants aged 65-79, also revealed that older adults with a negative history of dep...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 8, 2025

Study sheds more light on life expectancy after a dementia diagnosis

A systematic review of 261 studies involving over 5 million people with dementia found that average survival from diagnosis varies widely by age, with women living up to 9 years longer than men. The study also suggests that nearly one-third of people with dementia are admitted to a nursing home within three years of diagnosis.

SourceBMJ Group·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 8, 2025

Preventing clinical depression: Early therapeutic interventions offer protection

Researchers found that participants who received early therapeutic interventions were significantly less likely to develop clinical depression within the first year. The interventions, which typically lasted six to twelve sessions, reduced symptoms and lowered the risk of depression by 42% in the first six months.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 8, 2025

Study assesses the benefits of alfalfa-almond intercropping

New research reveals alfalfa-almond intercropping reduces winter soil nitrate leaching and field water loss via evaporation. The practice can capture and convert nitrogen losses into revenues for almond farmers during the non-productive winter season.

SourceWiley·JournalAgrosystems Geosciences & Environment·DateJan 8, 2025

Researchers unlock probable hot spots for critical metals

New research from Macquarie University identifies the probable locations and mechanisms of accumulations of critical metals at the margins of old cores of continents. These areas have been found to contain more sulfur and copper than elsewhere on the continents, making them potential targets for future exploration activities.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Nearly 30,000 wild species identified in US trade data

A recent study published in PNAS found almost 30,000 wild species were traded in the US over a 22-year period, with 50% sourced from the wild. The majority of these species were not subject to assessments ensuring sustainable harvest, highlighting a major gap in global monitoring and management.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2025

How deep sleep clears a mouse’s mind, literally

Researchers discovered that norepinephrine triggers blood vessel constriction to propel cerebrospinal fluid through the brain, clearing out waste. The findings suggest that sleep aids may disrupt this process, potentially affecting long-term cognitive health.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

AI enhances breast cancer detection in Germany’s mammography screening program: Results from the world’s largest prospective AI study

A recent study published in Nature Medicine found that AI significantly improves breast cancer detection rates, detecting an additional cancer case per 1,000 women screened. The results show improved efficiency without increasing false positives or unnecessary follow-ups.

SourceUniversity of Lübeck·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2025

Neuron special issue explores the science of aging

The Neuron special issue sheds light on the science of aging, focusing on how age-related changes impact the brain's ability to clear waste and transport energy. The collection also explores the link between the immune system and brain health.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 8, 2025

New international research collaboration to develop and test an improved dietary supplement for pregnant women

Researchers in Kenya, Norway, and Denmark are collaborating on a project to develop and test an improved dietary supplement for pregnant women. The goal is to reduce incidences of low birth weight, improve maternal and child health, and enhance growth and cognitive development in children. The new supplement, MMS+, will include additio...

A new ultrathin conductor for nanoelectronics

Researchers at Stanford University have discovered a new class of conductors made from niobium phosphide that can conduct electricity better than copper in films as thin as a few atoms. This breakthrough could lead to more powerful and efficient electronics, reducing energy consumption and heat loss.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateJan 8, 2025

The Frontiers of Knowledge Award goes to the four researchers who laid the biological foundations for revolutionary new treatments in diabetes and obesity

The BBVA Foundation has awarded four researchers for their fundamental discoveries about the GLP-1 hormone, which has driven the development of new generation drugs for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. The research also shows exciting therapeutic potential in neurological conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

Rethinking population management in zoos

Researchers argue that zoos should adopt a rational approach to population management, balancing education and conservation goals with the reality of animal mortality. Planned culling can help maintain self-sustaining populations and reduce carbon footprint by utilizing in-house meat supplies.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 8, 2025

Disparities in 36 cancers across 185 countries: Secondary analysis of global cancer statistics

A new study analyzed global cancer statistics to reveal stark disparities between high and low human development index countries, with a projected increase in cancer cases in low-medium HDI nations by 2040. The analysis found that high-income countries reported lower mortality-to-prevalence ratios, while low-income countries showed hig...

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Fecal transplantation offers new hope for diabetes patients with severe gastrointestinal issues

A new study from Aarhus University Hospital shows that fecal microbiota transplantation can be a safe and effective treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes and gastroenteropathy. The treatment has significantly improved quality of life and symptoms for participants, offering hope to those with debilitating symptoms.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 8, 2025

Exposure to aircraft noise linked to worse heart function

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that people exposed to high aircraft noise levels had stiffer and thicker heart muscles, which contracted and expanded less easily. This was especially true for those exposed to higher noise at night, potentially due to impaired sleep and stress responses.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 8, 2025

From gender dysphoria to special skills: decoding the link

A study by Sophia University researchers found that individuals with Klinefelter syndrome and sexual minorities exhibited higher sensory hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity compared to controls. These traits were more pronounced in participants with gender dysphoria, where gender identity conflicts with assigned sex at birth.

SourceSophia University·JournalFrontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2025

A new era in genetic engineering

Researchers have developed a new genetic engineering tool, mvGPT, that can precisely edit genes, activate gene expression, and repress genes all at the same time. The technology has shown promise in treating genetic diseases such as Wilson's disease and type I diabetes by targeting multiple genetic conditions simultaneously.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Small antibody offers broad protection against influenza

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered an antibody-like molecule, E10, that can protect mice from various influenza viruses. The molecule targets a conserved part of the virus's surface protein shared across multiple influenza types, providing effective protection against seasonal epidemics.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Why do birds make so many different sounds? A new UW–Madison study gets at the underlying factors

Researchers analyzed over 100,000 audio recordings from around the world to understand the factors that contribute to the diversity of bird sounds. The study found that larger birds tend to call at lower frequencies, which can indicate hunting pressure in landscapes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 8, 2025