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Science News Archive December 2022


Page 22 of 31

Rheumatoid arthritis drugs lower risk of heart disease

People with rheumatoid arthritis have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease due to inflammation. However, new research suggests that commonly used treatments for RA can also lower this risk by reducing arterial inflammation and disease activity. The study found that immunomodulators like methotrexate and TNFi drugs reduced heart dise...

Deep-space optical communication demonstration project forges ahead

The NASA Deep Space Optical Communications project has successfully demonstrated a new type of laser system that can transmit large amounts of data, including high-definition images and video, through space. The system uses a combination of flight and ground-based lasers to establish an optical link between spacecraft and Earth.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Changing the intrinsic behavior of neurons

Researchers developed a new method to target diseased neurons using light, changing their long-term behavior. The approach uses light-sensitive enzymes to create insulating or conductive coatings on cell membranes, tuning excitability in neurons.

Quantum receiver enhanced by adaptive learning

Researchers developed a quantum receiver that uses adaptive learning to improve signal decoding in noisy environments. The upgraded receiver achieved record-high efficiency and robust interference visibility, with improved performance compared to conventional designs.

CU scientists shine a light on what comes up when you flush

Researchers used bright green lasers and camera equipment to directly visualize aerosol plumes and measure the speed and spread of particles in a toilet flush. The study found that airborne particles shoot out quickly, reaching speeds of 6.6 feet per second and remaining suspended in the air for minutes or longer.

How AI found the words to kill cancer cells

Researchers at UCSF and IBM Research create a predictive model that encodes commands for cells to kill cancer cells. By combining words that guide engineered immune cells, they can predict which elements should be included in a cell to carry out precise behaviors. This advance allows scientists to rapidly design new cellular therapies.

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.

World's simplest animals get their place in the tree of life

A study by the American Museum of Natural History and collaborators classifies the world's simplest animals, placozoans, using genetic makeup, revealing distinct lineages and relationships to cnidarians and bilaterians. The research establishes a backbone taxonomy for the phylum, providing insight into their evolution and diversity.

Study shows new way to produce important molecular entity

Researchers at the University of Münster developed a new way to produce vicinal diamines, which are crucial for biologically active molecules and drugs. The process uses light energy from blue LEDs to produce these unsymmetrically constructed compounds without using transition metals.

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.

USTC realizes on-demand storage of photonic qubits at telecom wavelengths

A USTC research team achieved on-demand storage of photonic qubits at telecom wavelengths using a laser-written waveguide fabricated in an erbium-doped crystal. This innovation increases photon storage efficiency by up to fivefold, reaching 98.3% fidelity and enabling large-scale quantum networking applications.

How the ‘hell planet’ got so hot

Researchers discovered that 55 Cnc e orbits its star along the equator, unlike other planets in the system. This unique orbit likely formed when the planet fell toward its star over time, resulting in a scorching surface and interior with possible diamond formation.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Molecules have an orientation, and scientists have a new way to measure it

Researchers at NIST have measured the 3D orientation of polymer chains in plastics, observing complex patterns that dictate material properties. The new technique uses polarization-controlled coherent Raman microscopy to identify molecular orientation patterns, allowing for optimized materials in industries like medicine and electronics.

Canine brain wiring influenced by human-driven breeding practices

Researchers used genomic data from over 4,000 dogs to identify 10 major lineages and behavioral traits that correlate with these lineages. The study found that genomic variations among dog breeds are related to the development of their nervous system, suggesting a link between canine and human brain function.

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.

Mekong Delta will continue to be at risk for severe flooding

A study by Hokkaido University reveals that the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has caused more frequent heavy rainfall in the Mekong Delta, resulting in increased flooding risk. The findings suggest that better weather predictions and preparation can help mitigate the negative effects of floods and droughts in the region.

How do worms develop their gut?

A husband-and-wife research team at UC Riverside found a simpler gene network is involved in specifying the gut in nematodes related to Caenorhabditis elegans. The discovery was made possible by the COVID-19 pandemic, which freed up time for the researchers to explore their question of how nematodes develop their gut.

Germicidal UV lamps: A trade-off between disinfection and air quality

Researchers found that germicidal UV lamps can significantly decrease SARS-CoV-2 virus transmission risk, but also produce secondary VOCs and particulate matter, impacting indoor air quality. The study recommends using GUV systems in high-risk environments where benefits outweigh drawbacks.

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.

Scientists uncover new genes linked to multiple sclerosis

Researchers have identified three new genes, SHMT1, FAM120B, and ICA1L, and their expressed proteins that may be involved in the development of multiple sclerosis. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying the disease and prioritizes promising targets for future therapy research.

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.

Kilonova discovery challenges our understanding of gamma-ray bursts

Two independent teams of astronomers detected the unexpected hallmarks of a kilonova after a long gamma-ray burst, challenging the prevailing theory that long GRBs exclusively come from supernovae. The discovery was made possible by the proximity of the event and the sensitivity of telescopes like Gemini North.

Building acceptance for energy transitions in Germany and Australia

In Germany, community participation in decision-making processes and sharing of financial benefits from renewables projects enhanced public support. However, recent delays and corporate investments have led to resentment. In contrast, Australia's decentralized approach to its power grid, including community energy projects, aims to bri...

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.

Liver cancer study encourages caution with certain gene therapies

A study by Sanford Burnham Prebys found that misfolded proteins in liver cells contribute to liver cancer development, potentially increasing the risk of certain patients receiving gene therapies for hemophilia. Improving FVIII folding could decrease this risk and develop safer treatments.

Oil reservoirs under pressure

A KAUST research team studied the interaction between nitrogen gas and hydrocarbons in oil reservoirs. They found a direct correlation between nitrogen solubility and oil swelling, enhancing oil recovery. The study also sheds light on CO2 storage with impurities like methane and nitrogen.

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.

Hospital parking fees contribute to financial toxicity for cancer patients

A study published in the Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences found that hospital parking fees significantly correlate with cancer center address transit score and city cost of living across Western Canada. Cities with higher cost of living have less free parking, exacerbating economic burdens on patients.

Study identifies potential link between oral bacteria and brain abscesses

A study published in the Journal of Dentistry found that patients with unexplained brain abscesses were three times more likely to have oral bacteria present. The researchers also discovered significantly higher counts of Streptococcus anginosus, a bacterium linked to dental abscesses and infections in internal organs.

Soft robot detects damage, heals itself

Researchers create a soft robot that can detect damage and heal itself using stretchable fiber-optic sensors and polyurethane urea elastomer. The SHeaLDS technology provides a damage-resistant robot that can self-heal from cuts, and the researchers plan to integrate it with machine learning algorithms for more tasks.

Wearable sensor could guide precision drug dosing

A UCLA-developed wearable patch analyzes fluid underneath the skin to continuously record medicine concentrations in the body. The technology shows reliable forecasts of total effective medication delivery, offering a step toward improving doctors' ability to administer precise doses.

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.

How cells gain control over their bacterial symbionts

A study on the flagellate Angomonas deanei reveals how host cells control their bacterial symbionts through protein transfer. This process enabled the bacteria to become cell organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, with reduced genomes and controlled metabolism.

Microbiome composition influences depression

A large-scale study has found a clear relationship between the composition of the microbiome and depression. A diverse microbiome was associated with lower rates of depression, while an underrepresented microbiome was linked to increased depressive symptoms. This association is as strong as established risk factors for depression.

Americans’ spending declines consistently after age 65

A study by Michael Hurd and Susann Rohwedder found that real spending adjusted for inflation declined at annual rates of about 1.7% and 2.4% after age 65, contradicting traditional wisdom that spending will increase during older age.

Salton Sea dust triggers lung inflammation

A University of California Riverside study found that Salton Sea dust triggers lung neutrophil inflammation in mice, with potential implications for asthma sufferers and other terminal lake regions. The research highlights the need for further funding to understand dust-triggered inflammation and its effects on human health.

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.

Countries bet on forests and soils to reach net-zero

A new study by the University of East Anglia highlights the risks of relying on nature-based solutions, such as forests and soils, to achieve net-zero emissions. The research warns that these solutions may not be enough to offset the remaining difficult-to-decarbonize emissions if progress on reducing fossil fuel use stalls.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Researchers develop a scaled-up spintronic probabilistic computer

Researchers have developed a scaled-up version of a probabilistic computer using stochastic spintronic devices, suitable for combinatorial optimization and machine learning. The new design combines conventional semiconductor chips with modified spintronic devices, achieving massive improvements in throughput and power consumption.

Can microrobots improve the safety of dairy products?

Researchers developed magnetic microrobots that can bind and isolate S. aureus from milk, improving dairy safety. The 'MagRobots' use antibodies to target the bacteria, allowing for efficient pathogen isolation while preserving naturally occurring microbes.

The secret to STEM diversity may lie in peer mentorship

A longitudinal study from UMass Amherst reveals that peer mentorship enhances female engineering students' confidence, motivation, and academic outcomes. The study, which tracked 150 female students over eight years, showed that female mentees with female mentors reported greater belonging, motivation, and confidence.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Genetic vulnerability to ADHD signals risk of Alzheimer’s disease in old age

A recent study published in Molecular Psychiatry reveals a genetic link between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Alzheimer's disease in older adults. Researchers used a polygenic risk score to analyze the relationship between ADHD genetic predisposition and cognitive decline, finding a higher risk of developing Alzhe...

The three dimensions of a flower

A research team used photogrammetry to build 3D models of flowers from two-dimensional images, gaining new insights into the shape and color of flowers. The technique allows for detailed study of flowers' morphology and colors, which act like magnets to attract pollinators.

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.