ScienceDaily: All - October 25, 2024
Today's top research news
Successful experiment paves the way for new element
Scientists have found an alternative way to produce atoms of the superheavy element livermorium. The new method opens up the possibility of creating another element that could be the heaviest in the world so far: number 120.
Image: Ahmed M. Alloush/Shutterstock.com
Millions in the U.S. may rely on groundwater contaminated with PFAS for drinking water supplies
Approximately 71 to 95 million people in the Lower 48 states -- more than 20% of the country's population -- may rely on groundwater that contains detectable concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, for their drinking water supplies.
Human actions likely cause insect color change
New Zealand's native stoneflies have changed colour in response to human-driven environmental changes, new research shows. The study provides arguably the world's most clear-cut case of animal evolution in response to change made by humans.
Nigerians are experiencing neuro-long COVID, research finds
Scientists have found individuals in Nigeria are experiencing neurological manifestations of long COVID -- called neuro-long COVID -- such as brain fog, mild cognitive impairment, fatigue, sleep problems, headache, sensations of pins and needles, and muscle pain.
An individual's reward-seeking strategy reflects responses to nicotine
Individualistic reward-seeking strategies predict responses to nicotine among mice living in a micro-society, according to a new study.
Beneficial gut microbe has surprising metabolic capabilities
Researchers discovered potentially far-reaching effects of a particular gut bacterium that was linked to better growth in Bangladeshi children receiving a therapeutic food designed to nurture healthy gut microbes. A strain of the bacterium harbored in the children's gut microbial communities possessed a previously unknown gene capable of producing and metabolizing key molecules involved in regulating many important functions ranging from appetite, immune responses, neuronal function, and the ability of pathogenic bacteria to produce disease.
Evaluating the link between chemicals and declining insect populations
Employing a library of more than 1,000 chemicals, scientists investigated how agrochemicals affect insect populations. The scientists found that exposure to non-fatal amounts of 57 percent of the chemicals altered behavior in fruit fly larvae, while higher levels compromised long-term survival after acute exposure. These observations were worsened when the ambient temperature increased by four degrees.
Scientists discover molecules that store much of the carbon in space
A distant interstellar cloud was found to contain an abundance of pyrene, a type of large carbon-containing molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). This suggest pyrene may have been the source of much of the carbon in our solar system.
Wildfires are becoming faster and more dangerous in Western U.S.
Fire speed, not size, drives threat to people and infrastructure.
Plastic chemical causes causes DNA breakage and chromosome defects in sex cells, study finds
A new study conducted in roundworms finds that a common plastic ingredient causes breaks in DNA strands, resulting in egg cells with the wrong number of chromosomes.
A new hydrogel semiconductor represents a breakthrough for tissue-interfaced bioelectronics
The ideal material for interfacing electronics with living tissue is soft, stretchable, and just as water-loving as the tissue itself--in short, a hydrogel. Semiconductors, the key materials for bioelectronics such as pacemakers, biosensors, and drug delivery devices, on the other hand, are rigid, brittle, and water-hating, impossible to dissolve in the way hydrogels have traditionally been built. Scientists have now solved this challenge that has long stymied researchers, reimagining the process of creating hydrogels to build a powerful semiconductor in hydrogel form. The result is a bluish gel that flutters like a sea jelly in water but retains the immense semiconductive ability needed to transmit information between living tissue and machine.
Researchers say they have identified a gene pathway involving the mineral zinc in mice that may someday point the way to using zinc-based supplements to directly help people with a rare disorder called short bowel syndrome (SBS).
Researchers have identified clinical and genetic predictors of multiply recurrent meningiomas (MRMs), a most aggressive form of this common brain tumor.
Researchers created MobiPrint, a mobile 3D printer that can automatically measure a room and print objects onto the floor. The team's graphic interface lets users design objects in a space that the robot has mapped out. The prototype, which the team built on a modified consumer vacuum robot, can add a range of objects to rooms.
Fire-risk blocking self-powered hydrogen production system
By using a water-splitting system with an aqueous electrolyte, this system is expected to block fire risks and enable stable hydrogen production.
New mapping techniques empower bird conservation in Colombia
Researchers have introduced a transformative approach to mapping bird species distribution across Colombia, harnessing community science data and innovative modeling techniques.
A research team analyzed wastewater surveillance methods for accurately tracking COVID-19 infection trends. Using wastewater data from Sapporo dating from April 2021-September 2023, they explored survey conditions obtaining strong correlation between viral concentration in wastewater and infection incidence. The study identified key methods, including high-sensitivity analysis and geometric mean data processing, as essential for effective regional surveillance, providing critical insights for future public health monitoring.
Cancer prevalence rates varied widely across vertebrate species and generally increased with higher adult mass and decreased with longer gestation time, according to new results.
Scientists develop grain-sized soft robots controlled by magnetic fields for targeted drug delivery
A team of scientists has developed grain-sized soft robots that can be controlled using magnetic fields for targeted drug delivery, paving the way to possible improved therapies in future.
Non-electric touchpad takes sensor technology to extreme conditions
Researchers have developed the world's first soft touchpad that can sense the force, area and location of contact without electricity. The device utilizes pneumatic channels, enabling its use in environments such as MRI machines and other conditions that are unsuitable for electronic devices. Soft devices like soft robots and rehabilitation aids could also benefit from this new technology.
Microbes feed on iron: New study reveals how they do it
Corroding microbes are a costly menace for industries relying on hidden and underground iron structures like sprinklers and oil pipelines. A recent study sheds light on the mechanisms behind microbial-induced corrosion (MIC), offering insights that could help prevent damage.
Scientists have used high-performance computing at large scales to analyze a quantum photonics experiment. In specific terms, this involved the tomographic reconstruction of experimental data from a quantum detector.
Plant diversity enhances soil carbon retention
A new study shows that increasing plant diversity in agriculture can be used to improve the carbon sequestration potential of agricultural soils. As the agricultural sector strives to reduce its carbon footprint, promoting biodiversity in agricultural practices could be the key to more sustainable and climate-friendly food production systems.
New method of flexing on electronics
If a phone or other electronic device was made of soft materials, how would that change its use? Would it be more durable? If hospital health monitoring equipment was made of less rigid components, would it make it easier for patients to wear? While electronics of that type may still be far in the future, researchers have developed an innovative method for constructing the soft electronic components that make them up.
Chronic pain can be predicted within three days of an injury
After only one to three days of a whiplash injury, scientists can predict which patients will develop chronic pain based on the extent of cross 'talk' between two regions of the brain, and the person's anxiety level after the injury, according to a new study . The study showed the more the hippocampus -- the brain's memory center -- talked to the cortex -- involved in long term memory storage -- the more likely the person is to develop chronic pain. In addition, the higher a person's anxiety immediately after the car accident, the more precisely scientists could predict the chronic pain people reported one year after the accident. This is the first study to show that only a few days after a given injury, the brain can adapt in a way that imparts a risk for the development of chronic pain.
Key to low-cost, long-lasting renewable batteries for electric vehicles
Lithium-sulfur batteries have never lived up to their potential as the next generation of renewable batteries for electric vehicles and other devices. But mechanical engineers have now found a way to make these Li-S batteries last longer -- with higher energy levels -- than existing renewable batteries.
Harnessing plant odors to revolutionize sustainable agriculture
Plants communicate through volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that help them respond to herbivorous pest attacks. This review explored the mechanisms behind these plant communications and their applications in sustainable agriculture. The study emphasized how integrating VOC-based technologies with companion planting and biostimulants can enhance pest control strategies. This approach has the potential to reduce reliance on harmful chemicals in farming practices, paving the way for more eco-friendly agricultural solutions to protect plants and increase yield.
Popular diabetes and weight-loss drug may reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease
Researchers have found that semaglutide may lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Tiny medicine combats infections and drug resistance
Researchers have developed a new technology that can hold an entire course of antibiotics in one tiny dose and deliver on demand just the right amount of medication that a particular patient needs to fight an infection.
Burning incense can pose health risks for those with allergies and asthma
A new medically challenging case warns that, for those with allergies and asthma, health problems from burning incense can be a significant risk to adults and children.
Scientists may have discovered important step in the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria
A small molecular strand could hold the key to solving one of the greatest global health challenges. When bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics, it can be deadly, but researchers have now decoded part of the bacteria's defence mechanism.
No significant PFAS emissions caused by waste incineration, study finds
Fluoropolymers have become an integral part of modern society, both in industrial and consumer applications. When these high-performance materials reach the end of their useful life, they can end up in both industrial and household waste. Researchers analyzed the contribution of waste incineration of fluoropolymers to the release of low-molecular, non-polymeric fluorinated compounds. Their experiments showed nearly complete destruction of fluoropolymers in combustion at the temperatures and residence times typical of European incinerators.
Study finds intense exercise may suppress appetite in healthy humans
A vigorous workout does more to suppress hunger levels in healthy adults than does moderate exercise, and females may be especially susceptible to this response, according to a small study.
Crustacean with panda-like coloring confirmed to be a new species
Decades after it was first found in Japan, a crustacean species with unique black-and-white coloring resembling a panda has been confirmed to be new to science.
Researchers improve speed and accuracy of 3D surface measurements
Researchers have developed a faster and more accurate method for acquiring and reconstructing high-quality 3D surface measurements. The approach could greatly improve the speed and accuracy of surface measurements used for industrial inspection, medical applications, robotic vision and more.
Experimental drug engineered to prevent heart failure after heart attacks
An experimental therapeutic monoclonal antibody therapy could become the first to directly enhance tissue repair in the heart following a heart attack.
AI in medicine: New approach for more efficient diagnostics
Researchers have developed a new AI tool that uses imaging data to also detect less frequent diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Young people's moods directly affected by social media 'likes'
Young people today are growing up in a social media-saturated world where technology plays a central role in shaping most of their experiences. And the rapid rise of social media use has consequently created parental and societal fears about young people's social and psychological well-being. Now, a team of researchers has used real social media data to show that young people may indeed be more sensitive to social media feedback (likes) than adults, and that this directly impacts their engagement and their mood.
Study of chick peeps could improve understanding of animal emotions
Understanding animal emotions has been a long-running question at the forefront of welfare studies, but a new study may hold the key to decoding the chatter. The answer involves two baby chickens and a mirror.
Opioids may negatively impact hormone health
A new scientific statement released today by the Endocrine Society highlights research gaps associated with the negative effects of opioid use on the endocrine system.
The cellular superhero that protects us against RNA viruses
The innate immune system is the body's first line of defence against pathogens like bacteria or viruses. TRIM25 is a protein that is important in the innate immune response against RNA viruses, such as influenza viruses, coronaviruses, or Zika virus. New research has shown how TRIM25 binds to viral RNA and why this binding is essential for its antiviral activity.
Bacterial pathogen shows alarming resistance to common cleaners, chemists discover
A new study reveals widespread resistance of a major bacterial pathogen to the active ingredients in cleaning agents commonly used in hospitals and homes.
Experts call for clear and concise regulation of exosome-based treatments
Clinics that offer exosome therapies claim they have the ability to repair and regenerate tissues and treat inflammatory and other immune-related conditions in a noninvasive way. Now, a team of bioethicists and legal scholars is sounding the alarm on the urgent need for stronger regulations surrounding these unproven interventions.
Unnoticeable electric currents could reduce skin infections
Using a few zaps of electricity to the skin, researchers can stop bacterial infections without using any drugs. For the first time, researchers designed a skin patch that uses imperceptible electric currents to control microbes.
In pioneering study, gene technology outperforms standard newborn screening tests
Early results from 4,000 babies show that genome sequencing picks up many more serious health conditions than standard newborn screening and is favored by most parents.
Assessing the real climate costs of manufacturing
Producing materials such as steel, plastics and cement in the United States alone inflicts $79 billion a year in climate-related damage around the world, according to a new study by engineers and economists. Accounting for these costs in market prices could encourage progress toward climate-friendly alternatives.
Engineers unveil AI model for predicting, controlling pandemic spread
A team of engineers has published a study on how international air travel has influenced the spread of COVID-19, finding Western Europe, the Middle East and North America as leading regions in fueling the pandemic.
Researchers use cryo-EM to identify what makes bacteria strong
Researchers have identified the first high-resolution experimentally determined structure in proteins that helps them survive harsh conditions such as radiation, heat and even the vacuum of space.
The Clinical Genome Resource (ClinGen), a resource that works to define the clinical relevance of genes and variants, has published data on more than 2,700 genes curated for relevance to genetic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Reminders can eliminate age-related symptoms of decline in memory
A new study reveals that setting reminders can eliminate some age-related declines in memory. The findings offer a significant breakthrough in addressing the cognitive challenges faced by older adults, particularly in the context of prospective memory, which is the ability to remember to perform an intended action at the right moment, like taking medication or attending appointments.
Room temperature electrical control could heat up future technology development
An old physical phenomenon, known as the Hall effect, has revealed some new tricks. New findings have potential implications for understanding fundamental physics of quantum materials and developing applied technologies such as quantum communication and harvesting energy via radio frequencies.
Mouse study sheds light on secret to maintaining a youthful immune system
What keeps some immune systems youthful and effective in warding off age-related diseases? In new research done on mice, scientists point the finger at a small subset of blood stem cells, which make an outsized contribution to maintaining either a youthful balance or an age-related imbalance of the two main types of immune cells: innate and adaptive.
Marri trees a lifeline for many native bee species in biodiversity hotspot
New research has revealed Marri trees are critical to the survival of more than 80 species of native bee in Western Australia's South West region, which is one of the world's most biologically rich but threatened biodiversity hotspots.
Maternal antibodies interfere with malaria vaccine responses
Maternal antibodies passed across the placenta can interfere with the response to the malaria vaccine, which would explain its lower efficacy in infants under five months of age, according to new research. The findings suggest that children younger than currently recommended by the WHO may benefit from the RTS,S and R21 malaria vaccines if they live in areas with low malaria transmission, where mothers have less antibodies to the parasite.
NRL coronagraph captures unique images of a dusty comet
U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) imaging instruments on three sun-orbiting observatories have captured sequences of comet C/2023 A3, known as Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, as it passed between the Earth and the Sun during the beginning of October 2024.