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Science News for February 22, 2023


Sea stars able to consume kelp-eating urchins fast enough to protect kelp forests, research shows

A new study found that sea stars, such as the sunflower sea star, play a crucial role in protecting kelp forests by preying on kelp-eating urchins. The research suggests that these sea stars can consume urchins at rates sufficient to maintain and perhaps reset the health of kelp forests.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Parkinson’s disease patients experience significant reduction in symptoms with non-surgical focused ultrasound treatment

A new study led by University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers found that focused ultrasound treatment significantly reduced tremors and improved mobility in Parkinson's patients. Nearly 70% of treated patients showed a successful response after three months, with two-thirds continuing to respond a year later.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 22, 2023

Yeast used in production of cachaça can prevent asthma, study shows

A Brazilian study found that a strain of brewer's yeast can act as a preventive against asthma in male mice. Daily administration of the probiotic at a dose of 10 billion CFU/mL significantly reduced bronchial hypersensitivity and inflammation. However, airway and lung inflammation was not significantly reduced by lower doses.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProbiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins·DateFeb 22, 2023

The myths around consumer financial vulnerability -- and how it affects most consumers at different points in their lives

Consumer financial vulnerability (CFV) is a risk of experiencing future harm given current access to financial resources and future uncertainty. Most consumers across the socioeconomic spectrum experience varying degrees of CFV at different life stages, due to factors like age, economic cycles, and unforeseen crises.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateFeb 22, 2023

Keeping babies alive will lower population growth – new research

Research led by Professor Corey Bradshaw found that higher baby death rates and larger household sizes contribute to higher fertility rates, supporting the need for greater access to family planning and contraception. The study suggests that increasing access to quality contraception can help reduce infant mortality and curb population...

SourceFlinders University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

The USC Viterbi School of Engineering and the National Academy of Engineering launch new social media news series

The USC Viterbi School of Engineering and National Academy of Engineering launch a weekly social media news network, The Circuit, to promote engineering to the public. The program aims to engage diverse audiences in conversations about engineering and highlight notable engineers and technologies that shape our world.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·TypeNews article·DateFeb 22, 2023

JNM publishes procedure standard/practice guideline for SSTR PET imaging of neuroendocrine tumors

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) and the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) have published a new procedure standard/practice guideline for somatostatin receptor (SSTR) PET imaging in patients with neuroendocrine tumors. The guideline focuses on improved sensitivity, lower radiation dose, and sh...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2023

Flash tunning via programmable solid-state metasurfaces: a new platform for modern displays

Scientists have engineered electrically tuneable arrays of nanoparticles called 'metasurfaces' that can offer significant benefits over current liquid crystal displays. The metasurface cells replace the liquid crystal layer, reducing energy consumption by 50% and offering a tenfold greater resolution.

‘Antisocial’ damselfish are scaring off cleaner fish customers – and this could contribute to coral reef breakdown

Research from the University of Cambridge and Cardiff University found that damselfish scare off cleaner fish customers, leading to fewer species receiving vital cleaning treatment. This disruption could contribute to the breakdown of delicate ecosystems supported by coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBehavioral Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Hands-free tech adds realistic sense of touch in extended reality

A new 'multisensory pseudo-haptic' technology delivers believable tactile experiences in virtual environments by combining visual feedback from a VR headset with tactile sensations from a mechanical wristbracelet. This innovation keeps hands free, enabling long-term wear and more realistic user experiences.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

The world’s fastest 2D movie of laser-particle interactions and temperature in flames

Researchers developed a new ultrafast planar imaging camera, capturing the fastest 2D movie of laser-flame dynamics at 12.5 billion frames per second. This achievement overcomes current limitations in combustion science and opens doors to studying various phenomena in physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine.

Electric vehicles can go the distance

A study by University of Delaware researchers found that electric vehicles (EVs) with smaller batteries, combined with community charging, can meet the driving needs of a diverse range of drivers. The study analyzed data from 333 gasoline-fueled cars and modeled the ability of EVs to handle similar trips.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnergies·DateFeb 22, 2023

Nanofluidic devices offer solutions for studying single molecule chemical reactions

Researchers have developed nanofluidic devices to study single molecule chemical reactions in solution. These devices provide a test tube-like environment to confine individual molecules and enable high temporal resolution for investigating fast single molecule reactions. By integrating various fields using nanofluidics, scientists can...

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalTrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 22, 2023

Technical adequacy of artificial intelligence body composition assessed in external CT

Automated AI body composition tools achieved high technical adequacy rates (97.8-99.1%) in a large sample of external abdominal CT scans. The results support the generalizability and potential for widespread adoption of these tools, which can help build trust among radiologists and physicians.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

Children born after induced labour score lower in school tests 12 years later

Research from Amsterdam UMC found a small yet significant reduction in test scores for children born after induced labour from 37 to 41 weeks compared to those born without induction. This could lead to a potentially large impact on society as elective inductions are increasingly common.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

Stanford-led study reveals a fifth of California’s Sierra Nevada conifer forests are stranded in habitats that have grown too warm for them

A Stanford-led study estimates that about 20% of all Sierra Nevada conifer forests are mismatched with the climate around them. This means they are temporarily surviving in habitats that have grown too warm for them, but are likely to be replaced by tree species better adapted to the climate after catastrophic wildfires.

SourceStanford University·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateFeb 22, 2023

UMass Amherst researchers invent “electronic nose” built with sustainably sourced microbial nanowires that could revolutionize health monitoring

Scientists create wearable sensors using biodegradable nanowires that can detect various chemical tracers, including those associated with asthma and kidney disease. The breakthrough represents a new paradigm in electrical engineering, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional silicon-based nanowires.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateFeb 22, 2023

Study offers details on using electric fields to tune thermal properties of ferroelectric materials

Scientists from NC State University have discovered a way to manipulate the flow of heat through ferroelectric materials by applying different electric fields. The study, published in Advanced Materials, found that varying electric field strengths, types (AC/DC), time, and frequency can alter the thermal properties of these materials.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients suffer significantly higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation than those without IBS

Research highlights the need for holistic treatment of IBS patients' physical and mental tolls, including anxiety (38%) and depression (27%) rates significantly higher than in the general population. Early evaluation and treatment of both conditions is essential to improve patient quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalIrish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -)·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

SLAC, Stanford researchers make a new type of quantum material with a dramatic distortion pattern

Scientists at SLAC and Stanford University have created a new type of quantum material with a herringbone-like pattern, showcasing the Jahn-Teller effect in a layered material. The resulting distortions are huge compared to those achieved in other materials, offering exciting possibilities for further investigation.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Early Cretaceous shift in the global carbon cycle affected both land and sea

A recent geological study has confirmed that major changes in the global carbon cycle occurred on land during the early Cretaceous Period, matching those recorded in marine sedimentary rocks. The research, led by Matt Joeckel of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, used chemical and radioactivity-based analyses to find evidence of two d...

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalGeosciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Human body proven to predict mealtimes

A recent study published in Current Biology found that the human body can predict regular mealtimes based on physiological changes. The research team discovered that daily blood glucose rhythms may be driven by both meal size and timing, suggesting a physiological drive for some people to eat at certain times.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 22, 2023

What makes the immune systems of prematurely born babies susceptible to deadly infections

Researchers have found that prematurely born babies' immune systems are vulnerable to deadly infections due to an imbalance in immunoregulatory signaling pathways. This imbalance affects the proper functioning of important immune cells, leading to inadequate inflammatory responses and increased susceptibility to infection.

Keck School of Medicine study finds “forever chemicals” disrupt key biological processes

A Keck School of Medicine study found exposure to PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals,' disrupts key biological processes in children and young adults, increasing risk of diseases such as developmental disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The study highlights the importance of regulating PFAS as a class of chemicals.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Writing on glass and silica indicates novel direction for chiral optical property tailoring

Researchers create novel method for chiral optical property tailoring by employing fs laser 3D direct writing on glass, enabling localized modifications without surrounding damage. The technique utilizes form birefringence and stress field to induce optical chirality, offering a new approach for 3D laser manufacturing.

Changes of Tibetan religious activities during the past millennium revealed from lake sediments

Researchers analyzed lake sediments to track changes in Tibetan religious activities over the past millennium, identifying three periods of enhanced activity during the mid-Ming Dynasty, late Qing Dynasty, and Republic of China. The study suggests that regional religious practices have a significant impact on ecological environments.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2023

Clever orchard design for more nuts

A study by the University of Göttingen found that arranging rows of trees at right angles to semi-natural habitats increases pollination performance and nut production. The design also promotes easy movement of bees through the plantation.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Artificial intelligence conjures proteins that speed up chemical reactions

Researchers used machine-learning algorithms to design new light-emitting enzymes called luciferases that can efficiently recognize specific chemicals and emit light. This breakthrough could lead to custom enzymes for a wide range of applications in biotechnology, medicine, environmental remediation, and manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 22, 2023

Climate change, urbanization drive major declines in L.A.’s birds

A new study reveals that climate change and urbanization have dramatically impacted bird populations in Los Angeles and the Central Valley. In L.A., more than one-third of bird species have declined over the past century, while the Central Valley saw a mix of winners and losers. The study used current and historical bird surveys to ana...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Charity begins at home as far as international aid is concerned

A new study by the University of Portsmouth found that UK development policy has shifted from focusing on poverty and conflict to prioritizing national security interests. This shift has led to reduced aid to Africa and a narrower focus on the national interest.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCanadian Journal of Development Studies/Revue canadienne d études du développement·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

Economic crises can accelerate decarbonization

Researchers found that economic crises can trigger long-lasting decarbonization processes through increased energy efficiency, structural changes, and shifts towards renewable energy sources. Countries that have already implemented ambitious climate policies have been particularly adept in times of crisis.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

RIPE researchers put plant protein mechanism into bacteria to help move forward 50 years of effort

A team from Australian National University has modified the protein folding properties of bacteria by adding multiple components from plant chloroplasts. This enables them to study and speed up plant Rubisco, a slow protein that requires 'chaperones' for operation.

After 25 years of AI health tech research computers are slowly beginning to listen to patients

A review of 25 years of AI health tech research found that only 24% of studies include patient-reported outcomes, but there has been an increase in recent years. Experts emphasize the importance of integrating patient voices into AI models to support personalized care and prevent digitalization of healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 22, 2023

How Iceland could have a starring role as a sustainable alternative protein exporter to Northern Europe

A feasibility study suggests that Iceland can produce enough Spirulina to feed six million Europeans every year, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and freshwater withdrawals. The country's industrial-scale biomass cultivation system powered by renewable energy could support Northern European countries in achieving protein self-sufficie...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalFoods·DateFeb 22, 2023

Scientists warn: When restoring historical paintings, be careful with polar solvents

Researchers warn conservators about the risks of polar solvents containing water in historical oil paintings. Traces of water accelerate the formation of metal soap crystals, reducing mechanical stability and causing paint to crack and flake. The study provides a new spectroscopic method to estimate zinc soap crystallization risk.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Shock to the system

A University of Utah study shows that certain wearable gadgets with bioimpedance technology can interfere with implantable cardiac electronic devices, potentially leading to incorrect functioning or electric shocks. The research highlights a need for further clinical studies to assess the risks and ensure patient health.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateFeb 22, 2023

Does a child’s mathematical ability have a genetic basis?

A new study published in Genes, Brain and Behavior found that genetic variants in LINGO2, OAS1, and HECTD1 are associated with different mathematical abilities in Chinese children. The study refined genome-wide association studies of math skills and added population diversity to the literature.

SourceWiley·JournalGenes Brain & Behavior·DateFeb 22, 2023