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Science News for April 26, 2023


Pickleball helps older adults stay physically active

A pilot study by North Carolina State University researchers found that playing pickleball helped older adults aged 65 years and older reach their weekly recommended dose of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Participants averaged over 68 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity per session, meeting CDC guidelines.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalRecreational Sports Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Do fish bay at the moon? Can their odd songs identify Hawaiian mystery fish? Eavesdropping scientists progress in recording, understanding ocean soundscapes

Researchers recorded and identified mating and feeding sounds of 21 ocean species, including those influenced by the moon. The study's findings will contribute to the development of the Global Library of Underwater Biological Sounds (GLUBS), an open-access online platform for monitoring changes in marine environments.

SourceProgramme for the Human Environment, The Rockefeller University·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateApr 26, 2023

Can jack-of-all-trades AI reshape medicine?

Researchers chart course for generalist medical AI, capable of performing complex tasks in a wide range of scenarios. The model can integrate multiple data types and apply existing knowledge to new contexts, offering comprehensive solutions to alleviate clinician burnout and reduce clinical errors.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 26, 2023

Scientists discover rare element in exoplanet’s atmosphere

Scientists at Lund University have found seven elements, including rare earth metal terbium, in the atmosphere of KELT-9 b, the galaxy's hottest exoplanet. The discovery was made possible by a new method developed to analyze exoplanets, which has opened up the possibility of studying their atmospheres in more detail.

SourceLund University·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateApr 26, 2023

New insight into the mystery of ancient Gaza wine

Research at University of York and Tel Aviv University uncovers white grape variety, potentially oldest documented globally, hinting at sweet white wine's history in desert conditions. Genetic analysis links ancient seeds to modern varieties still grown around Mediterranean today.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2023

Three US regions hit the hardest by deaths of despair since 2010

A new study found six suicide clusters, four overdose clusters and nine alcohol-related liver disease clusters in the US west, southeast and Appalachia/rust belt. These co-occurring clusters suggest specific regions at increased risk for deaths of despair warranting public health intervention.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 26, 2023

Air-breathing cathode enhances energy conversion efficiency and durability of alkaline nickel-zinc batteries

Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics have developed an air-breathing cathode for alkaline nickel-zinc batteries, improving cycling stability and energy efficiency. The novel battery exhibits ultra-long lifespan and high energy efficiency, surpassing conventional Ni-Zn batteries.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 26, 2023

The antipsychotic clozapine linked to significantly less insomnia in people with schizophrenia

A new meta-analysis found that clozapine is associated with decreased insomnia and a lower risk of suicide in patients with schizophrenia. The study suggests that clozapine's ability to improve sleep quality may be linked to its reduced suicide risk, and highlights the importance of assessing and treating insomnia in these patients.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateApr 26, 2023

Will the improvement of technical environment help promote the adoption of organic fertilizer and biopesticides among farmers?

A recent study in Heilongjiang Province, China found a significant positive correlation between farmers' adoption of organic fertilizer and biopesticides. The technical environment played a crucial role in promoting their adoption, with factors such as training, accessibility, and information exchange increasing the likelihood of adopt...

SourceHigher Education Press·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

First direct image of a black hole expelling a powerful jet

Astronomers have observed for the first time the shadow of a black hole and the powerful jet expelled from it in the same image. The new image shows how the base of the jet connects with the matter swirling around a supermassive black hole, allowing scientists to better understand how black holes create energetic jets.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateApr 26, 2023

How to increase the chance of survival in older patients with head and neck cancer

An international study of 1,044 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma found that combining radiotherapy with chemotherapy significantly improves survival rates compared to radiotherapy alone. The benefit was particularly notable in patients between 65-79 years old with good general health.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 26, 2023

Dynamic 3D structure extraction from HS-AFM images

Computational modeling and simulations allow for reconstruction of 3D conformations with atomistic resolution from topographic resolution-limited AFM images. This enables automated recognition of biomolecular shape changes and feature assignment, including amino acid residue identification on the molecular surface.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalCurrent Opinion in Structural Biology·DateApr 26, 2023

Tunneling electrons

Physicists at FAU have successfully measured and controlled electron release from metals in the attosecond range using a special strategy. This achievement could lead to new quantum-mechanical insights and enable electronic circuits that are a million times faster than current technology.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

HKU Dentistry develops core technologies using generative AI in smart manufacturing of dental crowns

Researchers at HKU developed a novel smart manufacturing method for dental crowns using generative AI, producing personalised crowns with high accuracy that mimic natural teeth. The 3D-DCGAN algorithm improves the quality of design through internal competition between a generator and a discriminator.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalDental Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Recent study on how to get people to share a corporate post

A recent study by Sara Valentini and colleagues at Bocconi University found that consistency between online content and the values associated with a brand increases rebroadcasting frequency. Posts containing price promotions also perform well when aligned with the brand's identity, with followers being 109% more likely to share them.

SourceBocconi University·JournalJournal of Interactive Marketing·DateApr 26, 2023

Solving the mystery behind how nutrients enter cells

Researchers have identified FLVCR1 as a plasma membrane choline transporter in mammals, which could lead to treatments for diseases such as posterior column ataxia with retinitis pigmentosa and neurodegeneration. The discovery was made using an integrative genetic analysis approach that linked specific metabolites to transport proteins.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 26, 2023

Going for gold: Nanotech design opens door to new cancer treatments

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a drug delivery system using gold nanoparticles to target tumors with remarkable precision. The system reduces the potential for debilitating side effects by delivering drugs selectively to tumors, allowing for lower quantities and potentially life-saving treatments.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Misconceptions put women off STEM subjects

A sociological study at the University of Zurich reveals that outdated gender stereotypes play a major role in women's reluctance to pursue STEM subjects. Women tend to prefer fields with less emphasis on analytical thinking and more social and emotional skills, despite high salaries and good employment prospects. The study suggests th...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalEuropean Sociological Review·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

What’s wrong in statistics

A new paper proposes an itemized checklist to guide researchers in publishing analyses using complex sample survey data. The checklist, PRICSSA, consists of 17 important items to report for any analyses conducted on complex survey data. This reform aims to increase transparency and make analytic mistakes easier to spot.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Survey Statistics and Methodology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 26, 2023

New, comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis illustrate the need for nuance in public health guidance related to consumption of sugars

A comprehensive review of 169 clinical trials found that the effect of fructose-containing sugars on adiposity varies among food sources and energy control. High doses of certain sources, like SSBs, lead to increased body weight, while others, such as fruit and honey, show moderate beneficial effects when consumed in moderation.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 26, 2023

LincRNA paints a target on diseased tissues

Researchers have discovered a novel feature of long intergenic noncoding RNAs (lincRNAs) that can serve as markers indicating specific types of tissue. This finding has the potential to lead to highly specific disease treatments by targeting diseased tissues.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Textile treatment sets a futuristic trend for new electronic applications

Researchers have developed a simple metallic coating treatment for clothing that can repair itself, repel bacteria, and monitor electrocardiogram heart signals. The conductive circuits created by liquid metal particles transform wearable electronics, opening doors for human-machine interfaces, soft robotics, and health monitoring systems.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Democrats, urban dwellers, and 30-40-year-olds more likely to purchase first firearms during the pandemic

A new survey found that younger individuals (ages 35-40) and those living in urban areas were more likely to report purchasing a firearm for the first time due to the pandemic. This demographic shift is concerning given the increased risk of firearm-related death associated with having children and firearms present in the same household.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalPublic Health·TypeSurvey·DateApr 26, 2023

How solar-powered airships could make air travel climate-friendly

Researchers have identified optimal flight routes for solar-powered airships, which can significantly reduce both transport costs and CO2 emissions of air travel. With a maximum of five percent of carbon dioxide generated compared to conventional air transport, solar airships offer a promising alternative.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Energy·DateApr 26, 2023

Abundance of urban honeybees adversely impacts wild bee populations, according to new Concordia research

A new Concordia University study found that the rapid growth of urban honeybee-keeping is adversely affecting nearby wild bee populations. The researchers compared bee population data collected from sites around Montreal in 2013 and 2020, finding a decline in wild bee species richness associated with increasing honeybee abundance.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPeerJ·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 26, 2023

Using quantum physics to secure wireless devices

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago develop a method inspired by quantum physics to improve wireless device identification and protect device-to-device communication. They create a hardware encryption system using a truly random and unique digital fingerprint, making it virtually unbreakable.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

From oral structure to molecular evidence: new insights into the evolutionary phylogeny of the ciliate order Sessilida (Protista, Ciliophora), with the establishment of two new families and new contributions to the poorly studied family Vaginicolidae

This study reconstructs Sessilida's phylogenetic tree using infraciliature and silverline system, establishing two new families. It challenges traditional morphology-based classification and provides insights into the origin and evolution of this group.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateApr 26, 2023

Ingestible electroceutical capsule shows promise for treating gastrointestinal conditions

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital developed an ingestible capsule, known as the FLASH system, which electronically stimulates key hunger hormone ghrelin in pigs. The system has potential applications for treating gastrointestinal disorders and is a promising alternative to traditional treatments.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Robotics·TypeObservational study·DateApr 26, 2023

What happens when teens privately ask for help on Instagram?

A study by Drexel University and Vanderbilt University analyzed 82 relevant conversations on Instagram direct messages where teens asked for help, revealing that most disclosures were about mental health concerns. Support was offered in most cases, but specific sets of circumstances led to denial.

SourceDrexel University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 26, 2023

Breath test can monitor metabolism at home - study

Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University found that a portable breath test can detect changes in metabolism in response to diet. The study used the Lumen device to monitor metabolic fuel use at home and showed that it could detect acute changes in carbohydrate use, but was not sensitive on a day-to-day basis.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalJournal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·DateApr 26, 2023

Integrating mental health services into pediatric primary care at federally qualified health centers improves mental health care engagement for children, study finds

A new study found that integrating mental health services into pediatric primary care at federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) can improve access to and engagement in mental health care for Medicaid-enrolled children. The TEAM UP model of integrated behavioral health care was shown to increase mental health-related primary care vi...

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateApr 26, 2023

Integrative neuro-oncology for brain tumor patients

Neurologist Soma Sengupta introduces the concept of integrative neuro-oncology, combining conventional treatments with alternative therapies to enhance patient well-being. Her approach prioritizes the unique needs of brain tumor patients and their caregivers, promoting a holistic understanding of medicine.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Neuro-Oncology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 26, 2023

Bioindicator for the occurrence of PFAS

A comprehensive study found that wild boar liver can be used as a bioindicator for PFAS contamination in the environment, detecting hot-spots in regions with elevated PFAS levels. The researchers discovered that PFAS concentrations are highest in areas where industrial activities and agricultural practices have led to contamination.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

New study finds unintentional weight loss often goes unrecognized by primary care physicians

A new study found that unintentional weight loss is grossly under-recognized in primary care, with only 21% recognized by doctors. The researchers recommend using electronic health record alerts to prompt clinicians to ask about intentional or unintentional weight loss, which can be a sign of a serious underlying condition.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalDiagnosis·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 26, 2023

U.S. adults who felt discrimination at work faced increased risk of high blood pressure

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that U.S. adults who experienced workplace discrimination were more likely to develop high blood pressure. The research, which analyzed data from over 1,200 adults, suggests that work-related stress due to discrimination may be an emerging risk factor for card...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 26, 2023

Researchers identify possible risk factors for aneurysm growth in adults living with HIV

Researchers have identified low CD4 counts, high viral loads and inconsistent antiretroviral therapy use as possible risk factors for aneurysm formation and growth in adults living with HIV. A history of more severe illness may also be associated with a higher risk of brain aneurysm growth.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 26, 2023

Maths unlocks molecular interactions that open window to how life evolved

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have discovered a blueprint for adaptation-capable signalling networks across all domains of life. The study reveals that biological systems use a special type of regulation called integral control to implement complex intermolecular interactions.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 26, 2023

Hanging on for dear life

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University identify a novel focal adhesion remodeling process that strengthens cell-matrix adhesion in response to genotoxic stress. This mechanism involves the replacement of FAK with FRNK, leading to increased firm cell attachment.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateApr 26, 2023

Stereotypical gender roles thrive on film

A recent study analyzing 34 Hollywood films found that stereotypical gender roles persist, with men depicted as aggressive and powerful, and women as loving and caring. However, the analysis also showed a significant increase in female representation over the past two decades.

SourceAbo Akademi University·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 26, 2023

Enhancing water-splitting process for hydrogen production

Researchers at Flinders University have discovered that chromium oxide is the most efficient material for photocatalytic water splitting, a promising technique for producing hydrogen from renewable energy sources. The study reveals new insights into the nature of the coating that could lead to improvements in future materials.

SourceFlinders University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Benchmarking deep-learning methods for more accurate plant-phenotyping

Researchers develop imaging-based computer algorithms to boost crop-breeding data using self-supervised contrastive learning methods, outperforming conventional supervised approaches. The study uses wheat as a model crop and finds that these new methods can improve plant phenotyping accuracy and scalability.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 26, 2023

Physical activity might help people with substance use disorders to reduce or cease their usage, with 75% of studies that evaluated it showing a relationship

A systematic review found that physical activity interventions can reduce symptoms and improve outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders. The study examined 26 studies and concluded that physical activity may be an effective adjunct to traditional treatments, reducing or ceasing usage in approximately 75% of cases.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 26, 2023

Methanol biotransformation to efficiently produce fatty alcohols

Researchers have engineered yeast Ogataea polymorpha to produce fatty alcohols from sole methanol by coupling peroxisomal metabolism. This approach improves cellular fitness and enables high-level production of up to 3.6 g/L. The study provides a feasible engineering strategy for sustainable production of fatty alcohols.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 26, 2023

Existing drugs prevent Alzheimer’s disease-related cognitive impairment in mice, new research at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University shows

Researchers at Temple University Health System found that carbonic anhydrase inhibitors reduce inflammation, restore cell function and prevent cognitive impairment in mice with amyloid buildup. CAIs also improved cerebrovascular health and enhanced amyloid-clearing capacity.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateApr 26, 2023

Diverse landscapes help insects cope with heat stress

A new study reveals that diverse landscapes and microhabitats play a crucial role in helping insects cope with heat stress caused by global warming. Insects that inhabit diverse environments exhibit different strategies to conserve energy, such as reducing activity or seeking shelter in cooler areas.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Study: Brain circuits for locomotion evolved long before appendages and skeletons

Researchers discovered parallels between the brain architecture of sea slugs and more complex segmented creatures with jointed skeletons and appendages. The study suggests that simpler organisms like sea slugs adapted a network of neurons to govern locomotion and posture, which was later inherited by more complex animals.

BCG vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 in healthcare workers

A world-leading international trial has found that the BCG vaccine does not protect healthcare workers against COVID-19, despite boosting 'front-line' immunity in infants and protecting against respiratory infections. The research involved 3988 healthcare workers and showed a higher risk of symptomatic COVID-19 in the BCG group.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 26, 2023

First ever sturgeon to be found in Africa

A fossil of a 'royal fish', estimated to be over 66 million years old, was discovered in Morocco, marking the first time a sturgeon has been found in Africa. This finding suggests that sturgeons may have been more widespread than previously thought, complicating models of their origin.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCretaceous Research·DateApr 26, 2023

Inhaled ethanol may treat respiratory infections and stop pandemics

A new study found that inhaling low concentrations of ethanol vapor can inactivate the influenza A virus in mice without harmful side effects. The researchers believe this method could also treat similar viruses like Covid-19 and potentially stop pandemics. However, further evaluation is needed to ensure its efficacy and safety on humans.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023