Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 12, 2022


Bug eyes and bat sonar: UCLA bioengineers turn to animal kingdom for creation of bionic super 3D cameras

Researchers have developed a novel computational imaging framework, Compact Light-field Photography (CLIP), allowing the camera system to acquire wide and deep panoramic views. The technology enables the detection of hidden objects around occlusions and has potential applications in autonomous vehicles and medical imaging.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2022

Thawing Arctic hillsides are major climate change contributors

Researchers have found that thawing Arctic hillsides are releasing a significant amount of organic carbon, which was previously locked in frozen ground for thousands of years. This phenomenon is expected to contribute to an already warming climate, and its impact needs to be accounted for in global climate models.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalThe Cryosphere·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 12, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Thinking like a cyber-attacker to protect user data

MIT researchers found a vulnerable component in computer processors that can be exploited by malicious agents. They developed two mitigation strategies, including scheduling sensitive software on less vulnerable cores and reserving susceptible cores for trusted applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 12, 2022

A fresh look into grasslands as carbon sink

Researchers provide a fresh analysis of grassland soil carbon sequestration, highlighting the importance of microbial transformations and necromass. They found that 80% of European grasslands have unmet potential for carbon storage, while high biodiversity promotes carbon storage.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateAug 12, 2022

Using sound and bubbles to make bandages stickier and longer lasting

A team of researchers from McGill University has discovered a way to control the stickiness of adhesive bandages using ultrasound waves and bubbles. This breakthrough could lead to new advances in medical adhesives, especially in cases where adhesives are difficult to apply.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Nationwide study shows rise in pregnancy-related complications during COVID-19 pandemic

A nationwide study found a significant increase in maternal death, cardiovascular disorders, and obstetric hemorrhage during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study analyzed data from over 1.6 million pregnant patients and attributed the poor outcomes to pandemic-related stress, disruptions in prenatal care, and limitations on routine check-ups.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 12, 2022

UT researchers receive $2.75 million grant to investigate movement of amphibian pathogens in wildlife trade networks

Researchers at the University of Tennessee are investigating the movement of amphibian pathogens in wildlife trade networks, with a focus on disease mitigation strategies. The project aims to understand how socio-economic factors impact pathogen dynamics and develop market-based mechanisms to promote healthy trade.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateAug 12, 2022

The circadian clock makes sure plant cells have the time of their lives

Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology found that the circadian clock regulates cell cycle progression and differentiation in Arabidopsis. The study used single-cell analysis to show that clock genes directly trigger cell differentiation, revealing a guiding role for the plant circadian clock in cell fate determination.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 12, 2022

Linked lanthanides shine light on field of crystal engineering

Scientists have connected two soft crystals and observed energy transfer between them, leading to the potential development of sophisticated materials. The study used rare earth metals called lanthanides, which can luminesce, to create a molecular train that exhibited green luminescence at one end and yellow luminescence at the other.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 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.

Exploring the manipulation of Majorana zero modes in iron-based nanowires

The study proposes a modified platform using iron-based superconducting nanowires, enabling controllable coupling between different Majoranas and manipulable braiding operations. This allows for the exploration of non-Abelian statistical properties and potential applications in fault-tolerant topological quantum computing.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateAug 12, 2022

Overcoming a major manufacturing constraint

Researchers characterize material properties of IP-Q using Raman spectroscopy and nanoindentation, revealing elastic parameters and their effects on acoustic behavior. The study optimizes elastic parameters for TPP-fabricated structures, benefiting applications in life science, mobility, and industry.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateAug 12, 2022

Early-term births associated with higher rate of ADHD as reported by teachers

A Rutgers study found that early-term births (37–38 weeks) have significantly higher symptoms of hyperactivity, ADHD, and cognitive problems or inattention compared to full-term births. Teachers' reports provided valuable input for the diagnosis of ADHD, highlighting the need for regular screenings.

SourceRutgers University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 12, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Vitamin D supplementation seems to alleviate depressive symptoms in adults

A large meta-analysis suggests that vitamin D supplementation may alleviate depressive symptoms in adults with depression. The analysis included 41 studies and found that vitamin D was more effective than a placebo in alleviating symptoms. However, the results were limited by study heterogeneity and risk of bias.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·DateAug 12, 2022

Using mathematical modelling to fight malaria

Researchers developed a statistical mapping tool to predict genetic markers of resistance to Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes malaria. The model uses data from the WorldWide Antimalarial Resistance Network and fills in gaps by making continuous predictions in space and time.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2022

Feasibility study of novel core-strengthening intervention shows promise for maximizing trunk and balance rehabilitation outcomes after stroke

Researchers tested a core-strengthening program using the AllCore360º to improve trunk function, balance, and mobility after stroke. The study showed promising effects on functional outcomes, including improved lateral control of posture and standardized treatment dosage.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

A simple way of sculpting matter into complex shapes

Researchers at the University of Strathclyde have developed a new technique for sculpting matter into complex shapes using 'twisted' light. When this light is shone on ultracold atoms, it breaks into clusters of BEC droplets that move following the light's features.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2022

Betamethasone could improve outcomes for prostate cancer radiation therapy

A new study suggests that betamethasone could improve outcomes for prostate cancer radiation therapy by protecting normal cells from injury and making cancer cells more susceptible to treatment. The research found that betamethasone increases hydrogen peroxide levels, activating a protective protein in non-cancerous cells.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2022

Cousin of crop-killing bacteria mutating rapidly

A newly identified species of Liberibacter, a family of bacteria known for causing citrus greening disease, is rapidly evolving its ability to infect insect hosts. The research team found 21 genes associated with infectious qualities and identified mutations affecting pilus proteins that allow the bacteria to move into host insects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateAug 12, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New radiolabelling method for personalised cancer treatment

Researchers have developed a new method to efficiently make nano carriers loaded with radioactive salts for both imaging and treatment, offering a promising alternative to chemotherapy. The radiolabelling method allows clinicians to assess whether patients can benefit from chemotherapeutic treatment with micelles.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Therapeutics·DateAug 12, 2022

More than 1 in 4 children hospitalized with COVID-19 or MIS-C have lingering complications more than two months later

A national follow-up study found that over a quarter of children and adolescents hospitalized with COVID-19 or multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children had persistent symptoms or activity impairment two to four months later. The study identified risk factors for prolonged recovery, including MIS-C and activity impairment.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 12, 2022

Important milestone on the way to transition metal catalysis with aluminum

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have successfully synthesized the cationic low-valent aluminum complex [Al(AlCp*)3]+, which exhibits ambiphilic reactivity. This breakthrough brings us closer to developing catalysts using abundant and earth-abundant metal like aluminum, potentially replacing expensive transition metals.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 12, 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 way to control pain after knee replacement surgery

Researchers at Houston Methodist found that injecting morphine into the tibia during knee replacement surgery reduces postoperative pain and the need for pain medication. This method, known as intraosseous infusion, may also facilitate a swifter recovery of the knee joint.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalThe Journal of Arthroplasty·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 12, 2022

Will strong and fast-switching artificial muscle be feasible?

A POSTECH research team developed a new polymer electrolyte with different functional groups, resolving contradictions in mechanical strength and conductivity. This breakthrough enables the creation of artificial muscles that can produce fast switching and great strength.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 12, 2022

Rotator cuff regeneration: potential breakthrough treatment

Researchers at the University of Connecticut have developed a potential breakthrough treatment for rotator cuff tears, using an advanced polymer to stimulate regeneration of both the tendon and muscle. This approach addresses the real problem of muscle degeneration and fat accumulation that often leads to re-injury after surgery.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2022

A step towards quantum gravity

Researchers build on Peter Bergmann and Arthur Komar's work using Hamilton-Jacobi techniques to resolve the ambiguity in time development, a key challenge in reconciling general relativity with quantum mechanics. This approach deserves more recognition for its potential to lead to an eventual theory of quantum gravity.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal H·DateAug 12, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Princeton’s Sorensen lab develops concise synthesis of pleurotin

The Princeton Sorensen lab has developed a concise synthesis of pleurotin, a molecule with potential therapeutic properties as an anti-cancer agent and antibiotic. The new synthesis reduces the total number of steps needed from 26 to 13, making it a promising lead for expanding the class of pleurotin-based anticancer agents.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 12, 2022

Humour used in English-language terrorist propaganda magazines to reinforce identity, study shows

The study found that Al-Qaeda, Taliban, and TTP use situational comedy to galvanize curious individuals and emphasize an 'us versus them' mentality. In contrast, ISIS uses dehumanising humour to mock rivals and create a shared identity among followers. This humour helps foster internal cohesion and creates social bonding.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBehavioral Sciences of Terrorism and Political Aggression·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 12, 2022

Increased health care use among patients after COVID-19

A Kaiser Permanente study of over 250,000 patients found that those infected with COVID-19 used more healthcare services in the 6 months following their infection. The study revealed a 4% increase in encounters, including virtual visits and emergency department visits, resulting in over 27,000 extra encounters.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 12, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Health care use following SARS-CoV-2 infection

A study of 127,000 patients with positive and negative SARS-CoV-2 tests found elevated health care use six months post-infection. This suggests that healthcare systems should consider long-term strategic planning to address expected increased use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 12, 2022

Researchers fabricate cobalt copper catalysts for methane on metal-organic framework Contributes to goal of methane production from carbon dioxide emissions

A Soochow University team has developed cobalt copper alloy catalysts that deliver outstanding methane activity and selectivity in electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction. By modulating the cobalt doping concentration, they achieved a remarkable Faradaic efficiency of 60% to methane at high operating current densities.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateAug 12, 2022

When light is the switch: nanometric photodiodes to study the activity of neurons

Researchers developed nanometric photodiodes that can bind to nerve cell surfaces and activate them with infrared light, allowing for selective stimulation of individual neurons. This technology has the potential to study the nervous system in-depth and develop targeted therapies for neurological diseases.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 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.

Researchers develop new faster charging hydrogen fuel cell

A new method to improve solid-state hydrogen fuel cell charging times has been developed by researchers from the University of Technology Sydney. The study used a semi-cylindrical coil heat exchanger, which significantly improved heat transfer performance and reduced charging time by 59%. This innovation has the potential to revolution...

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2022

Antarctica's ice shelves could be melting faster than we thought

A new model suggests Antarctica's ice shelves are melting at an accelerated rate due to the Antarctic Coastal Current. Freshwater from melting ice can trap warm ocean water beneath the shelves, causing them to melt further. This mechanism could increase sea level rise predictions by up to 40%.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 12, 2022