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Science News Archive August 2022 - Page 23


Page 23 of 38

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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
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.

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

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
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

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

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
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.

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

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
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

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

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
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.

Vanilla cultivation on fallow land promotes biodiversity

A study by the University of Göttingen and Malagasy universities found that vanilla plantations on fallow land have similar yields to those in forests while increasing biodiversity. This sustainable approach helps smallholder farmers secure their income, highlighting a win-win opportunity for both economy and conservation.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022

CDI laboratory identifies critical regulators controlling T-cell homeostasis which could improve cancer therapies, vaccines of the future

The Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation's CDI laboratory has identified critical regulators controlling T-cell homeostasis. The findings could lead to improved cancer therapies and vaccines of the future by modulating the human immune system.

SourceHackensack Meridian Health·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022

The formation of a super strong Mongolian cyclone and its contributing factors

A powerful Mongolian cyclone developed into a typhoon-strength storm due to favorable topography and low-frequency circulation conditions. The study found that the downward transfer of eddy kinetic energy played a key role in strengthening the cyclone.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateAug 11, 2022

Powerful new antibody neutralizes all known SARS-CoV-2 variants

Researchers developed a broadly neutralizing antibody that neutralized all currently known SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Omicron strains. The antibody works differently from existing antibodies and prevents the virus from fusing with host cells.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience Immunology·DateAug 11, 2022

Why thinking hard makes you tired

A study found that prolonged mental labor leads to glutamate accumulation in the prefrontal cortex, causing cognitive fatigue and altering control over decisions. Researchers suggest taking rest and sleep as a solution to overcome this limitation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 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.

Meteorite provides record of asteroids “spitting out” pebbles

Researchers found compact fragments in the Aguas Zarcas meteorite that wouldn't break apart, leading to CT scans revealing deformed rocks with the same orientation. The team proposed a hypothesis that asteroids 'spit out' pebbles due to high-speed collisions and thermal cycling, which can cause rock brittleness.

SourceField Museum·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 11, 2022

Checking road traffic inside cells with nano GPS!

A team of scientists at DGIST developed a dark field super-resolution microscope to observe endosome movement and rotation in real-time. The technology allows for the analysis of endosome behavior, shedding light on intracellular transport mechanisms.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJACS Au·DateAug 11, 2022

Hubble sees red supergiant star Betelgeuse slowly recovering after blowing its top

Astronomers have concluded that Betelgeuse blew its top in 2019, losing a substantial part of its visible surface and producing a gigantic Surface Mass Ejection (SME). The star is now slowly recovering from this catastrophic upheaval. The mass loss event is not necessarily the signal of an imminent explosion.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Simplified voice box enriches human speech

Researchers found that human larynx evolution led to stable voices and controlled pitch without adding new structures. This simplification allowed for the development of complex vocal information, enabling humans to communicate effectively.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022

Darwin's giant daisies and evolution

Scientists have gained insight into how evolution takes place and how several species evolved from a single one by studying trees found in the Galapagos Islands. The research revealed genetic variations associated with vascular development, growth, adaptation to salinity, and flowering time.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 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.

Stormwater management ponds may not hold the solution for depleting wetlands

New research from the University of Waterloo suggests that relying on stormwater management ponds to restore wetlands is unsustainable and lacks critical ecosystem services. The study found a low proportion of wetlands left in areas with high pond creation rates, posing an environmental challenge.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateAug 11, 2022

Stiff, achy knees? Lab-made cartilage gel outperforms the real thing

Researchers at Duke University have created a lab-made cartilage substitute that is stronger and more durable than natural cartilage. The hydrogel material can withstand even more stress from pulling and squishing, with improved strength and durability compared to previous methods.

SourceDuke University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022

New insights on how some individuals with obesity can lose weight – and keep it off

A new study suggests that exercise training is crucial for individuals with diet-resistant obesity, improving skeletal muscle metabolism and enhancing weight loss capacity. The research challenges the one-size-fits-all approach to treating obesity and has the potential to help reshape the science of weight-loss programs.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 11, 2022

Testosterone promotes 'cuddling,' not just aggression, animal study finds

A new animal study finds that testosterone can foster friendly, prosocial behavior in males, in addition to aggression. The hormone appears to help animals rapidly pivot between prosocial and antisocial responses as the social world changes.

SourceEmory University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Leaving small kidney stones behind causes problems later

A randomized controlled study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that leaving small kidney stones behind significantly increases the risk of relapse. Removal of these secondary stones reduced patients' relapse rate by 82%.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 11, 2022

Synthetic genetic circuits could help plants adapt to climate change

Scientists have designed a series of synthetic genetic circuits that allow them to control plant cell decisions, enabling the creation of more efficient crops. The tools are being tested on tobacco plants and Arabidopsis thaliana to modify root structures and optimize water and nutrient absorption.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateAug 11, 2022

Busting anti-queer bias in text prediction

A team of researchers at USC has developed a system to quantify and fix anti-queer bias in AI-powered text prediction. By training the popular language model BERT on queer-inclusive data from Twitter and news articles, they significantly reduced biases in predictions, with QueerTwitter showing the most effective results.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateAug 11, 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.

AI algorithm that detects brain abnormalities could help cure epilepsy

A new AI algorithm has been developed to detect subtle brain abnormalities causing epileptic seizures. The Multicentre Epilepsy Lesion Detection project used over 1,000 patient MRI scans to train the algorithm, which was able to detect focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) in 67% of cases. This could lead to more patients being considered for...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBrain·DateAug 11, 2022

Veterans are reluctant to seek help for sleep problems or substance use

A new study from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that American military veterans are less willing to seek treatment for sleep and alcohol use problems compared to physical health issues. Discrimination experiences also play a significant role in reducing treatment-seeking among veterans of color.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·TypeSurvey·DateAug 11, 2022

Ohio University chemistry lab students predict spread of COVID-19 with kinetics models

Undergraduate students at Ohio University applied kinetic techniques learned in physical chemistry to analyze the COVID-19 spread data from the CDC. They developed a model that considers the effect of vaccination and made predictions for the following months, correctly predicting the surge in cases in Ohio.

SourceOhio University·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 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.

Study finds that sound plus electrical body stimulation has potential to treat chronic pain

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have found that combining sound with electrical body stimulation activates the brain's somatosensory cortex, increasing its potential to treat chronic pain. This non-invasive technique has been tested on animals and is planned for human clinical trials in the near future.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022

Breakthrough in search for tinnitus cure

A new mobile-phone-based therapy has shown clinically significant improvements in patients with tinnitus, offering a promising alternative to existing treatments. The therapy involves a personalized approach combining digital tools and audiologist assessment, with 65% of participants reporting an improvement in just 12 weeks.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022

Elephant tweets highlight divide on conservation issues

A recent study found that social media platforms like Twitter do not accurately reflect the most pressing threats to wild elephant populations, such as habitat loss and human-elephant conflict. Local communities that live with elephants often face resentment due to their safety and livelihoods being at risk.

SourceGriffith University·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 11, 2022

Building the best zeolite

Researchers have developed new methods to prepare state-of-the-art zeolites with nano-sized dimensions and hierarchical structures, critical for industrial applications. The findings emphasize the importance of smaller size and structure in determining performance.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Synthesis·DateAug 11, 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.

How an urban bat differs from a rural bat

Research reveals urban bat species have lower echolocation call frequencies, small bodies, and flexible roosting habits compared to rural bats. These traits may make them more adaptable to city life, whereas larger species with high calling frequencies tend to thrive in rural areas.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 2022

Study achieves longest continuous tracking of migrating insects

Researchers radio-tracked migrating hawkmoths for up to 80 kilometers, employing sophisticated flight strategies to counter unfavorable wind conditions. The study confirms that insects can accurately maintain straight trajectories over long distances using internal compasses.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 2022