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Science News for April 18, 2023


Antibody alternatives for biosensing

Researchers developed an electronic biosensor using DNA aptamers to detect biomarkers in whole blood samples. The biosensor successfully detected clinically relevant levels of a marker protein for cardiovascular disease without further sample preparation.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

Metal-poor stars are more life-friendly

Researchers found that metal-poor stars, with fewer heavy elements, emit less intense ultraviolet radiation into space. This allows their planets to form a protective ozone layer, making conditions more life-friendly. The study suggests that as the universe ages, it becomes increasingly unfavourable for complex life on new planets.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 18, 2023

Quantum liquid becomes solid when heated

Researchers have discovered a new phase of matter where a quantum liquid becomes solid when heated. The breakthrough was achieved through a collaboration between experimentalists and theoretical physicists, who developed a model that explains the formation of a quantum crystal at finite temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

Large animals travel more slowly because they can’t keep cool

A new study suggests that large animals are disadvantaged due to their limited traveling speeds, which can be attributed to their inability to effectively dissipate excess heat generated by their muscles. This limitation leads to slower travel speeds compared to medium-sized animals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 18, 2023

School prevalence of stimulant therapy for ADHD associated with higher rates of prescription stimulant misuse among teens

A new study found a strong association between the prevalence of prescription stimulant therapy for ADHD and rates of prescription stimulant misuse among middle and high school students. Schools with higher numbers of students on stimulant therapy had significantly higher rates of misused stimulants, highlighting the need for education...

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 18, 2023

Biological invasions as costly as natural disasters

The global economic impact of biological invasions exceeds that of natural catastrophes, with $1208 billion in losses between 1980 and 2019. Biological invasions have a long-lasting effect, causing significant damage to infrastructure, crops, and ecosystems.

SourceCNRS·JournalPerspectives in Ecology and Conservation·DateApr 18, 2023

Why “born digital firms” should have a physical presence in foreign markets

A new study published in Global Strategy Journal highlights the importance of a physical presence in foreign markets for born digital firms. The research found that these firms are more likely to deploy foreign direct investment in far-away and culturally different countries to overcome geographical and cultural challenges.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 18, 2023

The quantum spin liquid that isn't one

A team of researchers at Vienna University of Technology and Toho University in Japan investigated the electrical resistance of κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu2(CN)3 as a function of temperature and pressure. They found that the material exhibits properties similar to those of helium-3, contradicting the theory of a quantum spin liquid.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

Physicists find unusual waves in nickel-based magnet

Researchers found that two outermost electrons from each nickel ion behaved differently, cancelling each other out in a phenomenon called a spin singlet. This led to the discovery of two families of propagating waves at dramatically different energies, contradicting expectations of local excitations.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

One in five suicides involved intimate partner problems

A new study from the University of Georgia and CDC found that 20% of suicides between 2003 and 2020 were related to issues like breakups, conflict, divorce, and mental health problems. Intimate partner problems were more common among individuals who experienced mental health issues, life stressors, and recent legal issues.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 18, 2023

A computer-assisted procedure classifies ataxia-related speech disturbances

Researchers have developed a computer-assisted method to automate the assessment of speech severity in ataxia patients, achieving an 80% hit rate. The new methodology leverages artificial intelligence and could simplify procedures for determining ataxia severity, facilitating research and clinical practice.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 18, 2023

A recent research on why pundits can be unreliable

Researchers found that forecasters have an incentive to misreport when their reputation is at stake, with higher levels of misreporting in less uncertain situations. The study suggests firms should trust expert advice when uncertainty is high and link evaluations to ex-post accuracy to reduce misreporting.

SourceBocconi University·JournalManagement Science·DateApr 18, 2023

BU study: no significant differences in mortality, adverse events in patients taking thyroid medications

A recent study from Boston University School of Medicine found no significant differences in mortality among patients treated with propylthiouracil (PTU) or methimazole (MMI) for thyroid storm. The researchers compared the two drugs using a national database of hospitalization data and found no significant differences between the groups.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 18, 2023

Salmonella detection

A team of researchers developed a simple and portable test system to detect salmonella in food, eliminating the need for expensive analytical equipment. The assay uses a nucleic acid probe that is cleaved by an RNase enzyme specific to salmonella, resulting in a clear red spot on an absorbent pad indicating contamination.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

Teasing strange matter from the ordinary

Researchers have made the first-ever observations of how lambda particles, a form of strange matter, are produced by a specific process called semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS). The study reveals that diquarks, pairs of quarks and gluons, can march through atomic nuclei, contributing to the formation of lambdas.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

When both mom and dad maltreat their child

A new study found that factors such as substance use, housing insecurity, and intimate partner violence are linked to an increased risk of both parents being involved in physical or sexual abuse. However, other risk factors like economic insecurity and parental mental health problems were not associated with any type of maltreatment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalChildren·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 18, 2023

Better blood sugar regulation

Researchers have developed a novel insulin formulation that can be switched on by glucose, offering improved regulation of blood sugar levels in patients with type 1 diabetes. The new formulation uses biocompatible lipid nanoparticles and achieves precise control of insulin release in response to fluctuations in blood sugar.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

Study provides evidence that peer-support groups can be beneficial in reducing healthcare worker stress and burnout

A pilot study found that peer-support groups for emergency department physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic reduced symptoms of distress, depression, and burnout. The study's results suggest that this low-cost intervention could be beneficial for healthcare workers in stressful situations.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open·DateApr 18, 2023

Narrative risk messaging and vaccine hesitancy

Focusing public health messages on protecting oneself versus others has a significant impact on vaccination rates. A study found that messages emphasizing protection of one's community led to higher odds of COVID-19 vaccination than those focused on personal protection.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateApr 18, 2023

Sex after menopause doesn’t need to hurt

A comprehensive review reveals that postmenopausal dyspareunia is a common condition with various causes, including lack of estrogen, cancer treatments, and musculoskeletal problems. Effective treatments are available, such as lubricants, vaginal estrogen, and fractional CO2 laser treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMenopause·DateApr 18, 2023

Walking on familiar streets: insights on how neighborhood attachment may promote people's walking behavior

A new study found that neighborhood attachment is positively associated with people's walking behavior and physical activity. Place attachment, a person's emotional and functional relationship with their surroundings, influences the likelihood of engaging in outdoor activities like walking.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateApr 18, 2023

Researchers develop carbon-negative concrete

Scientists at Washington State University have created a carbon-negative concrete that can sequester up to 23% of its weight in CO2 while maintaining strength comparable to regular cement. This innovation could significantly reduce the industry's carbon footprint, with potential applications in pavements and bridges.

SourceWashington State University·JournalMaterials Letters·DateApr 18, 2023

Imagery training could give esport athletes a competitive edge

A new study suggests that esport athletes can benefit from using 'imagery ability' techniques to build rich and vivid multi-sensory images of success. The technique, called Layered Stimulus Response Training, has been shown to improve imagery ability levels and sporting performance in regular athletes.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Imagery Research in Sport and Physical Activity·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 18, 2023

Peer support helping ease the pressure after suicide attempts

Researchers have discovered that peer support following a suicide attempt can significantly reduce risk and improve outcomes for individuals with complex needs. The PAUSE program, which incorporates holistic and responsive support, has been shown to be an effective model for supporting people after hospitalizations.

SourceGriffith University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeCase study·DateApr 18, 2023

USPSTF statement on screening for skin cancer

The USPSTF finds the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of visual skin examination by a clinician to screen for skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S., with melanomas causing the most skin cancer deaths.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 18, 2023

Protein that drives the development of alcohol-associated liver disease identified by IU researchers

A team of researchers from Indiana University School of Medicine has identified Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) as a crucial mediator of alcohol-induced liver injury. PDK4 plays a key role in the formation of calcium channels at the ER-mitochondria interface, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and accumulation of calcium ions.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2023

UMD psychologist finds daily occurrences’ impact on suicide, self-harm ideation in LGBTQ+ teens

A University of Maryland study found that LGBTQ+ teens experience more suicidal thoughts and self-harm ideation on days when they face high levels of minority stress, including microaggressions and internalized stigma. The study suggests that daily interventions are crucial to reducing these risks.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science·DateApr 18, 2023

Now you can be comfortable in your e-skin

Osaka University researchers develop a cellulose-based material, called nanopaper e-skin, that makes effective contact with the skin while maintaining breathability and comfort. The substrate can withstand deformation, sterilization, and environmental sustainability, making it a promising candidate for electrophysiological monitoring.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

Mass Eye and Ear Hearing scientists use drug-like cocktail to regenerate hair cells in preclinical study

Researchers have created a drug-like cocktail that successfully regenerated hair cells in a mouse model by reprogramming genetic pathways within the inner ear. The approach could lead to clinical trials for a gene therapy that can be administered to people with hearing loss, potentially treating up to 90% of cases.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

Bird feeding helps small birds fight infection

Research from Lund University shows that feeding small birds during winter reduces the need to lower body temperature, allowing them to fight infections more effectively. This study highlights the importance of access to food during winter in modulating a bird's immune response and ability to combat infection.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateApr 18, 2023

Pediatric TB may affect lung functioning, growth later in life

A new study reveals that young children diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis are at an increased risk of subsequent wheezing, poor lung function, and reduced height and weight. The study found that children who developed PTB before six months old had more than double the risk of wheezing after 6 months.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 18, 2023

RCSI study finds early signs that may help predict ADHD risk

Researchers from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences identified 17 factors that can predict ADHD symptoms in childhood, including sex, cigarette smoke exposure, and mother's urinary tract infections. The study suggests that prenatal information may help identify children at risk of developing ADHD, particularly when combine...

SourceRCSI·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateApr 18, 2023

Research shows why some children may be slower to learn words

A new study from the University of East Anglia found that children with larger vocabularies look quickly towards objects when learning new words, while those with smaller vocabularies take more time and look back and forth. The research team hopes to identify children at risk for language delay earlier and provide targeted support.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalDevelopmental Science·TypeObservational study·DateApr 18, 2023

Could this copycat black hole be a new type of star?

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have simulated an object called a topological soliton, which distorts space like a black hole but behaves differently when releasing weak light rays. The findings suggest there could be other types of celestial bodies in space hiding from even the best telescopes.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPhysical Review D·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 18, 2023

A new treatment for multidrug-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Aalto University developed a drug that undercuts antibiotic resistance by blocking key toxins involved in the infection process. The treatment sequesters toxins and disrupts biofilms, making bacteria more vulnerable to antibiotics. Initial results show promising protection against bacterial infections.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2023

Projection of China’s future runoff based on the CMIP6 mid-high warming scenarios

This study uses the EDCFM method to downscale and bias-correct six CMIP6 GCMs for China's hydrological applications. The results indicate that SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios will bring increased volatility in precipitation, evapotranspiration, and runoff. Multi-year average annual values are projected to increase under these scenarios.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateApr 18, 2023

American Roentgen Ray Society's Roentgen Fund presents 2023 Honorary Lecture, “Advanced High-Resolution CT,” in memory of W. Richard Webb

The American Roentgen Ray Society presents its 2023 Honorary Lecture on Advanced High-Resolution CT, dedicated to the late Dr. W. Richard Webb, who transformed thoracic imaging with his foundational work in HRCT. The lecture explores multiple conditions diagnosed via HRCT and the radiologist's role on multidisciplinary teams.

Menu calorie labels estimated to save U.S. billions on cancer care

A study from Tufts University researchers estimates that menu calorie labels can prevent at least 28,000 obesity-associated cancer cases and 16,700 cancer deaths over a lifetime, saving $2.8 billion in healthcare costs. The policy is expected to have the greatest impact on young adults and Hispanic/Black individuals.

SourceTufts University·JournalBMJ Open·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 18, 2023

Towards more efficient and eco-friendly thermoelectric oxides with hydrogen substitution

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new approach to improve the performance of thermoelectric materials by substituting hydrogen for oxygen. This substitution reduces thermal conductivity while maintaining high electronic conductivity, leading to improved thermoelectric conversion efficiency.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023