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Science News for October 30, 2023


DGIST achieves both efficiency and stability in next-gen solar cells with quantum dot surface stabilization strategy!

A research team at DGIST has developed a new approach to protect the surface of quantum dots using non-polar solvents and covalent ligands, significantly reducing defects and improving efficiency and long-term stability in perovskite quantum dot solar cells. This breakthrough enhances the commercialization of applicable materials.

Trauma-informed training workshops prompt meaningful individual and organizational changes, according to outcomes surveys

A McLean Hospital study found that nearly 600 individuals trained in trauma-informed care reported significant gains in knowledge and improvements to organizational policies. However, the study's findings suggest that lasting changes may require more time and involve larger-scale organizational transformations.

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·TypeSurvey·DateOct 30, 2023

How to protect biocatalysts from oxygen

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a method to increase oxygen stability of [FeFe] hydrogenase enzyme using site-directed mutagenesis, electrochemistry, X-ray crystallography and molecular dynamics simulations. Blockages in dynamic water channels near the H-cluster were found to improve oxygen resistance.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemSusChem·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

The genetic heritage of the Denisovans may have left its mark on our mental health

A recent study reveals that the Denisovan genetic variant affects zinc regulation and may have provided an evolutionary advantage for our ancestors' adaptation to the cold. This variation has been associated with a greater predisposition to mental health disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety-related conditions.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Drawing a tube of blood could assess ALS risk from environmental toxin exposure

Researchers developed an environmental risk score to assess ALS risk and survival using a blood sample, associating several individual pollutants with disease risk. A mixture of pesticides in the blood significantly increased ALS risk, with those in the highest group having twice the risk as those in the lowest.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Protein eIF4A emerges as a potential Achilles’ heel for triple-negative breast cancer

Researchers have found that targeting protein eIF4A with the small molecule drug Zotatifin can suppress tumor cell proliferation and remodel the immune microenvironment in triple-negative breast cancer. The promising findings support pursuing clinical trials to assess the potential patient benefits of this approach.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can lead to higher risks of death

A study of over 50 years found that excessive weight gain during pregnancy is associated with greater postpartum weight retention and increased risks of pregnancy complications and death. The researchers estimated associations between gestational weight gain and loss and mortality, including all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 30, 2023

Women with physical disabilities are less likely to be screened for cervical cancer than women without disabilities

Research by George Mason University found that women with physical disabilities have lower cervical cancer screening rates, highlighting the need for improved access to preventive health services. The study's findings also reveal disparities in screening rates among different types of disabilities.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 30, 2023

Texas lab unlocks keys to alcohol withdrawal headache

A study by University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio researchers found that corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) activates immune cells in the dura membrane under the skull, leading to pain signals. This discovery may lead to the development of a small-molecule drug therapy to inhibit CRF and MrgprB2 interaction.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Can personalized care prevent over screening for colorectal cancer in older adults?

Researchers found that presenting adults between 76 and 85 with personalized information about the benefits and harms of colon cancer screening decreases excess screening. The study involved 431 older adults who received either standard or personalized care, with no significant differences in screening orders between the two groups.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 30, 2023

Largest brain autopsy study of female intimate partner violence decedents reveals brain injury pathology unlike that seen among male contact sports athletes

A large brain autopsy study of women who experienced intimate partner violence found substantial vascular and white matter damage, but no evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The study also revealed significant medical comorbidity, including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Risk of admission and death from COVID-19 low overall, but oldest adults remain vulnerable

A new study found that while most residents in British Columbia had been infected with SARS-CoV-2, older adults remained at highest risk of hospitalization and death due to COVID-19. The researchers estimated that the risk of hospitalization for COVID-19 was about 1 in 30 among adults 80 years and older.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 30, 2023

Intestinal bacteria metabolite promotes capture of antigens by dendritic cells

A team of researchers from Okayama University found that short-chain fatty acids produced by intestinal bacteria trigger elongation of dendrites in dendritic cells, capturing intestinal pathogens and enhancing immune responses. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments targeting dendritic cells to prevent diseases.

SourceOkayama University·JournalFEBS Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

‘Plug and play’ nanoparticles could make it easier to tackle various biological targets

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have created modular nanoparticles that can be tailored for various applications, including targeted drug delivery and neutralizing biological agents. By leveraging a plug-and-play approach, scientists can rapidly modify functional biological nanoparticles with ease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 30, 2023

Roe v. Wade repeal impacts where young women choose to go to college, PSU researcher finds

Research from Portland State University finds that female students are more likely to choose universities in states with upheld abortion rights, potentially affecting future workforces and economies. The study suggests a significant impact on the labor market as young people often live and work in the state they attend college.

SourcePortland State University·JournalEconomics Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Meta-analysis identifies native priority as a mechanism that supports the restoration of invasion-resistant plant communities

A meta-analysis found that prioritizing native species can increase invasion resistance by over 50% and reduce invasive alien species' performance. High-density seeding of functionally similar or multifunctional seed mixtures is effective in controlling invasive species, with priority effects strengthened by increasing time advantage.

SourceHun-Ren Ökológiai Kutatóközpont·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Study of 1,000 selfies helps explain how we use them to communicate

Researchers compiled personal reports and associations from 132 participants to categorize 1,001 self-portraits into 26 categories. Five clusters emerged, including 'aesthetics', 'imagination', and 'trait', which showed a close association with visual language used to communicate different aspects of oneself.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Communication·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2023

How robots can help find the solar energy of the future

Researchers at Osaka University use a robotic system to automate key experimental processes, accelerating the search for new materials. They evaluate 576 thin-film semiconductor samples using photoabsorption spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and time-resolved microwave conductivity analyses.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

COVID vaccination in female, male partners does not increase risk of miscarriage

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that COVID-19 vaccination in female and male partners does not increase the risk of miscarriage. In fact, vaccinated individuals had a slightly lower risk of miscarriage compared to unvaccinated individuals. The study analyzed survey data from over 1,800 female participants...

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeSurvey·DateOct 30, 2023

New species of mosasaur named for Norse sea serpent

The new species of mosasaur, named after the Norse sea serpent Jormungandr, is estimated to be around 24 feet long and has a mosaic of features seen in two iconic mosasaurs. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of these aquatic lizards and provides new insights into their relationships with other reptiles.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalBulletin of the American Museum of Natural History·DateOct 30, 2023

Powder engineering adds AI to the mix

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new simulation method using AI to predict powder mixing with high accuracy and low computational costs. This breakthrough enables large-scale and long-duration powder mixing processes, set to enhance product quality and streamline production.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2023

Want to achieve your goals? Get angry

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that anger improves people's ability to reach their goals in challenging situations. Anger was associated with increased scores or shorter response times, and even motivated participants to vote in elections.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Resident T cells discovered in lymph nodes

Scientists at the University of Würzburg have observed a new behavior of regulatory T cells, which remain in certain lymph nodes for months and function as local memory banks of the immune system. This discovery could lead to therapeutic applications in allergies and autoimmune diseases.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Just in time for Halloween: Researchers document the power of 'ghostly encounters' on organizations

Organizational ghosts are admired former leaders who embody an organization's values and identity, continuing to influence members long after they've departed. Researchers found that these ghostly encounters can safeguard organizations from risky decisions and legitimize current leaders.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2023

Amazon deforestation linked to long distance climate warming

A new study by researchers at the University of Leeds found that Amazon deforestation causes land surfaces up to 100km away to get warmer. The study analyzed satellite data from 2001 to 2020 and found that regions with more local and regional deforestation warmed by an average of 4.4°C.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

First clinical classification of heart attacks based on tissue damage adopted by Canadian Cardiovascular Society

The Canadian Cardiovascular Society has adopted a new classification system for heart attacks based on the extent of tissue damage, which aims to improve patient outcomes by guiding treatment and predicting disease progression. The four-stage classification outlines varying levels of injury following a heart attack.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateOct 30, 2023

Virtual cognitively enhanced tai chi program improves cognition and executive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment

A virtual, home-based exercise program using cognitively enriched tai ji quan improved global cognition and reduced walking interference associated with dual tasking in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The intervention also showed favorable improvements in cognition, function, executive function, and working memory.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateOct 30, 2023

Soy expansion in Brazil linked to increase in childhood leukemia deaths

A study by researchers at the University of Illinois found a significant relationship between soy expansion and childhood leukemia deaths in Brazil. Pesticide use in the region has been linked to increased cancer mortality, with an estimated 123 children under 10 dying from ALL associated with pesticide exposure between 2008 and 2019.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2023

Sustainable and green development of magnesium production technology: an environmental and economic life-cycle perspective

The study analyzes the life cycle of magnesium production processes, examining energy consumption, carbon emissions, and economic aspects. Key findings highlight the importance of sustainable development in reducing environmental impacts and improving economic efficiency.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalCarbon Resources Conversion·TypeCase study·DateOct 30, 2023

UMaine, UVM researchers conduct first-ever study of cultural adaptation to climate change

A team of researchers from UMaine and UVM have conducted the first-ever study of cultural adaptation to climate change in US crops. They found that farmers are already adapting their practices to better match crops to recent changes in climate, with some regions showing significant changes in crop selection.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateOct 30, 2023

Canine cuddles can comfort equally across all genders

A recent UBC Okanagan study found that canine cuddles have a comparable positive wellness effect across all genders, contradicting previous studies with predominantly female participants. The research suggests that canine-assisted interventions can be an inclusive option for post-secondary mental health and wellness programs.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalHuman-Animal Interactions·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2023

A sustainable alternative to air conditioning

A team of researchers from McGill University, UCLA, and Princeton has found an inexpensive, sustainable way to cool buildings in hot climates using radiative cooling materials. They achieved temperatures several degrees below the ambient temperature, without compromising healthy ventilation air changes.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateOct 30, 2023

Shedding light on the paradoxical prognosis for patients with cardiac sarcoidosis, a rare and difficult-to-diagnose inflammatory heart condition

Researchers investigated the paradoxical prognosis of cardiac sarcoidosis, finding that isolated heart condition patients have poorer outcomes due to history of atrial fibrillation and impaired heart function. Steroid treatment responds equally well in both groups.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Attribute augmentation-based label integration for crowdsourcing

A new method, attribute augmentation-based label integration (AALI), enhances crowdsourced label quality by identifying reliable instances and improving the discriminative ability of the original attribute space. Experimental results demonstrate AALI's superiority over state-of-the-art competitors on simulated and real-world datasets.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

New frequency comb can identify molecules in 20-nanosecond snapshots

Researchers have developed a laser-based system that can detect specific molecules with unprecedented accuracy and sensitivity. The new electro-optic comb setup can capture moment-to-moment details of high-speed processes such as hypersonic propulsion and protein folding, opening the door to novel measurements and insights.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023