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Science News Archive April 2022 - Page 15


Page 15 of 37
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Following a Mediterranean-style diet during pregnancy may reduce the risk of preeclampsia

A Mediterranean-style diet during pregnancy was associated with reduced preeclampsia risk, particularly among Black women. The study found that following this diet resulted in a significant reduction in the risk of developing preeclampsia, which is a major cause of complications and death for mothers and their unborn children.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 20, 2022

New York City green roofs planted with native vegetation may perform better at managing stormwater than conventional succulent-planted green roofs, according to case study

A recent study found that native vegetation green roofs in New York City are more effective at managing stormwater runoff compared to conventional succulent-planted green roofs. The research used the Ranaqua green roof as a case study, which was constructed and monitored by the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 20, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

A midge fly can be a source of currently used pesticides for birds, bats

Researchers found that non-biting midge larvae accumulate pesticides from polluted water and retain them into adulthood. Adult female midges have higher pesticide concentrations than males, which are transferred to their offspring. The study suggests that midges can be a source of pesticides in terrestrial ecosystems.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 2022

New bird app spreads its wings

The Bird Language Diversity app provides a 'birds eye view' of vital information on bird species globally. Researchers found that 1587 species have 10 languages or more spoken within their distributions, highlighting the importance of overcoming language barriers for effective conservation measures.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 20, 2022

Astronomers identify likely location of medium-sized black holes

Researchers used Chandra X-Ray Observatory to detect X-ray signatures of black holes in nuclear star clusters across 108 galaxies. The study found that above a certain mass and density threshold, these clusters emit x-ray signatures indicative of a black hole at twice the rate below the threshold.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Bleak outlook for Australian coal exports to China

New modelling shows China's demand for thermal and coking coal imports from Australia will dramatically drop by 26-45% between 2019 and 2025. This decline is driven by Beijing's plans for rapid decarbonisation and energy security, posing significant losses to major coal exporters like Australia.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalJoule·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 20, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

SMEs are likely to achieve higher environmental performance through circular economy adoption – new research

A new study by Aston University reveals that Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) can improve their sustainability performance by adopting circular economy practices. The research found that SMEs in all participating countries are likely to achieve higher environmental performance through CE adoption, with products, processes, and...

SourceAston University·JournalInternational Journal of Production Economics·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 20, 2022

Interacting plexcitons for designed ultrafast optical nonlinearity in a monolayer semiconductor

A team of scientists creates ultrafast optical nonlinearity in a monolayer semiconductor by designing plasmon-exciton polaritons, achieving strong interactions and great tunability. This breakthrough enables high-speed all-optical switching and energy-efficient data processing at room temperature.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateApr 20, 2022

Deep brain stimulation driven by motor cortical activity can effectively treat Parkinson’s disease

Researchers developed a new method of deep brain stimulation driven by motor cortical activity to treat Parkinson's disease. This approach, known as adaptive DBS (aDBS), uses γ2 band activity from the primary motor cortex to modulate stimulation parameters and reduce battery consumption.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Opioid-related deaths affecting more younger adults, study finds

A new study found that opioid-related mortality rates in Ontario, Canada, have shifted downward to peak in the mid-30s among males and females. The study analyzed high-frequency data from 2003 to 2020 and hypothesizes that opioid-related mortality among younger adults will continue to grow.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

A new pathway to shrink cancerous tumors through body’s immune cells

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered that altering macrophage metabolism influences their relationship with T cells, suppressing tumor growth and reducing overall tumor size. The study found PERK protein's involvement in key metabolic pathways and identified a potential clinical drug inhibitor to target it.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 20, 2022

Making a game of it: Contests help new moms increase their steps

Researchers found that gamification increased daily steps by an average of 647 for postpartum individuals with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The study, published in JAMA Cardiology, demonstrates the effectiveness of text-based gamification interventions to improve physical activity among high-risk postpartum women.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 20, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

A doctor’s visit from the future

A doctor's visit from the future describes patient care in 2042, where diagnosis and treatment are personalized based on individual biological abnormalities. Researchers believe this approach could lead to more effective treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateApr 20, 2022

New global forecasts of marine heatwaves foretell ecological and economic impacts

Researchers developed global forecasts that can provide up to a year's notice of marine heatwaves, which can dramatically affect ocean ecosystems. The forecasts help fishing fleets, ocean managers, and coastal communities anticipate the effects of marine heatwaves, reducing ecological and economic impacts.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 20, 2022

Multifunctional graphene-based composites oriented by roles of graphene in photocatalysis

The review discusses optimization strategies for multifunctional graphene-based composite photocatalysts, including decreasing defect density, chemical doping, and depositing cocatalysts. Graphene plays a crucial role in enhancing light absorption, electron transfer dynamics, and surface reactions.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateApr 20, 2022

Can a blood test help diagnose skin cancer?

Researchers developed a blood test to detect circulating melanoma cells, which can help diagnose skin cancer and monitor treatment response. The test uses the Melanoma-specific OncoBean platform conjugated with melanoma-specific antibodies.

SourceWiley·JournalAdvanced NanoBiomed Research·DateApr 20, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Why Venus rotates, slowly, despite sun’s powerful grip

The study suggests that Venus' atmosphere plays a crucial role in determining its rotation speed, with fast winds dragging along the surface and slowing it down. This has significant consequences for the sweltering Venusian climate, with average temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 20, 2022

NIST study shows everyday plastic products release trillions of microscopic particles into water

Researchers analyzed food-grade nylon bags and single-use beverage cups, finding that they release trillions of nanoparticles per liter when exposed to hot water. The average size of these nanoparticles was between 30-80 nanometers, with concentrations seven times higher from nylon bags than from beverage cups.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 2022

Rates of COVID-19 among unvaccinated adults with prior COVID-19

A new study assesses the degree and duration of protection against COVID-19 associated with natural immunity in 120,000 unvaccinated individuals. Researchers found that those who previously tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 had lower rates of subsequent COVID-19 infections.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 20, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Studies detail current, future obstacles to abortion care

Two studies from Ohio State University analyze the impact of proposed abortion bans on access to care, revealing that residents may need to travel up to triple the distance for services. The research highlights the exacerbation of health inequities and the challenges faced by patients with limited financial resources.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPerspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health·DateApr 20, 2022

In the race to solve Alzheimer’s disease, scientists find more needles in the haystack

Researchers from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio have identified 33 genes associated with Alzheimer's disease, doubling the known list. This discovery adds 42 new genetic variants to the existing gene list, shedding light on emerging pathways of Alzheimer's biology and potential treatment targets.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 20, 2022

Ubiquitous nutrients suppress appetite and promote movement

A study published in Current Biology found that consuming non-essential amino acids can curb appetite and encourage physical activity in mice. This mechanism is thought to be rooted in evolutionary history, where eating these amino acids promoted the urge to seek out more nutrient-rich food sources.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 20, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Collaborating to conquer loneliness amid pandemic

A University of Houston program successfully reduces social isolation among seniors by connecting them with UH students in social work and nursing. Weekly telephone interactions establish trust, resulting in a decrease in loneliness and an increase in participants' well-being.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Applied Gerontology·DateApr 20, 2022

ESMO Breast Cancer Congress 2022

The ESMO Breast Cancer Congress 2022 event will present more than 200 studies on various aspects of breast cancer, including new treatments and innovative clinical practices. The congress will be held onsite in Berlin, Germany, and online, offering a platform for breast cancer specialists to share knowledge and improve patient outcomes.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateApr 20, 2022

Weapon against tumors, boost for the immune system

Researchers at TU Darmstadt found that x-rays trigger a calcium signalling cascade in T-cells, stimulating the immune response. This discovery could lead to improved cancer treatment by enhancing the killing effect of ionising radiation on tumour cells.

SourceTechnische Universitat Darmstadt·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateApr 20, 2022

Multiple treatments to slow age-related muscle wasting

Researchers have discovered a combination therapy that can delay sarcopenia, a condition where muscles shrink and strength declines with age. Calorie restriction and rapamycin have been shown to have additive benefits in mice, promoting healthy muscle function and physical capability.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Molecular robots work cooperatively in swarms

Researchers developed micro-sized machines utilizing swarming strategy for cargo delivery, outperforming single robots with efficiency of up to five times. The team created a swarm of cooperating robots that can divide workload and respond to risks, expanding potential uses for microrobots.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Active resolution of inflammation: No evidence that specialized lipid messengers are involved

A recent study led by Goethe University found no evidence that specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPMs) play a role in inflammation resolution. Instead, the transformation of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages into anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages is thought to be the key mechanism. This discovery challenges the existing SPM conce...

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 20, 2022

Risky driving behaviors increase as common sleep disorder worsens

A new study found that people with sleep apnea are more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors such as speeding and hard braking. The researchers monitored the driving habits of 96 older adults under real-world conditions and collected data on over 100,000 trips. They also assessed cognitive impairments and molecular signs of earl...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalSLEEP·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Online tool helps older adults who question, “Is it time to stop driving?”

A recent randomized controlled trial found that an online decision aid can help older adults decide whether and when to stop driving. The tool, called Healthwise DDA, had high acceptability and reduced negative feelings about the process among participants. It may help older adults make informed decisions about their driving abilities.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 20, 2022

Flexible printable electrical patches for accelerated wound healing

Researchers at Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation have developed a flexible, antibacterial conductive hydrogel-ePatch that accelerates wound healing with minimal side effects. The e-Patch uses silver nanowires and alginate to promote cell proliferation and migration, resulting in faster wound closure and reduced scarring.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

For neurons, where they begin isn’t necessarily where they end

Scientists have developed novel methods to study human brain cell migration during fetal development by tracking genetic mutations in healthy adult individuals. This allows for the first time to reconstruct brain development and provide key findings on cell type origins and hemisphere separation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Genetic changes differed, increased in people with Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found that somatic mutations accumulated at a faster rate in Alzheimer's disease patients' brain cells, leading to DNA damage and dysfunction. This discovery provides a window into the molecular events of AD pathogenesis, potentially leading to novel treatments targeting these pathways.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Media alert: New issue of GEN Biotechnology

The April issue of GEN Biotechnology features a study analyzing the safety of food and milk from gene-edited livestock, finding no significant differences in growth, health or development. The authors suggest regulatory product composition studies should be hypothesis-driven and risk-based.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGEN Biotechnology·DateApr 20, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Arm movement and running speed: Is the partnership overrated?

The study found that restricting arm motion had a negligible effect on sprint time, with only a 1.6 percent difference from normal arm movement. Runners compensate for restricted arm swing by rotating their torso to maintain a forward-facing orientation.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalGait & Posture·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 20, 2022

Protected areas don’t always boost biodiversity

A global study reveals that protected areas can have a positive impact on biodiversity, but only if managed properly. The research found that larger protected areas tend to be more effective in conserving species and their habitats, highlighting the need for better management strategies.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Improving Georgia land conservation through algorithms

Researchers at the University of Georgia developed a model to prioritize land conservation in the Upper Chattahoochee Watershed, which provides drinking water to 95 cities. The model considers ecosystem services like water, carbon, and habitat, and favors higher connectivity among parcels of land.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEnvironmental Management·DateApr 20, 2022

Women’s earnings drop after childbirth

A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that women's earnings drop substantially after childbirth, with the gap widening across all education levels. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue, making it more challenging for mothers to restart their careers and leading to worse hiring prospects and wage penalties.

SourceCornell University·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateApr 20, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Boston University CTE Center study of former Notre Dame football players finds college players more likely to have brain disorders

Former Notre Dame football players from 1964-80 teams found to have higher risk of brain disorders like CTE and ALS compared to general population. However, the study also reveals positive long-term health outcomes in former college players with lower mortality rates and fewer cases of lung cancer and heart disease.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateApr 20, 2022

Study: Mediterranean-style diet further linked to reduced risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women of all races

A new study found that following a Mediterranean-style diet can lower the risk of preeclampsia by at least 20% in pregnant women. The research surveyed over 8,000 women and found that racial differences in rates of preeclampsia were more related to socioeconomic factors than genetic or biological ones.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 20, 2022

Lockdown for tumour cells

A novel inhibitor has been discovered that stalls a critical enzyme inside tumour cells, locking them in place and preventing invasion into healthy tissue. The findings hold promise for the development of metastasis-blocking agents.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 20, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Ethical communication in the age of information

Researchers from Osaka University proposed a comprehensive ethical framework and practical guidance for communicating with research participants through the Internet. The framework addresses issues such as participant recruitment, informed consent, and data protection, aiming to improve future practice in medical research.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateApr 20, 2022