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Science News Archive December 2022 - Page 4


Page 4 of 31

Mediterranean diet linked to lower preeclampsia risk

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that women who followed a Mediterranean diet before conception had a significantly lower risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy. The study also showed that a higher intake of vegetables, legumes, and fish was associated with a lower risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 22, 2022

The motor cortex influences perception of neuropathic pain in mice

Researchers discovered that distinct layer-specific neuronal circuits in the primary motor cortex modulate both sensory and emotional components of chronic pain in mice. Activation of specific pathways suppressed sensory hypersensitivity to pain and reduced negative emotional and behavioral components.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 22, 2022

Uneven wetting under climate change is causing diverse variations in the thawing of frozen ground on the Tibetan Plateau

The Tibetan Plateau's frozen ground is experiencing diverse variations in thawing due to uneven wetting under climate change. The study found that arid regions have become warmer and wetter, while humid regions have become warmer but drier. This has led to a reduction in permafrost area by 28% as substantial wetting in arid areas exert...

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 22, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Experimentalists: Sorry, no oxygen required to make these minerals on Mars

Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis found that manganese oxides can be formed without atmospheric oxygen under Mars-like conditions. The study, published in Nature Geoscience, used kinetic modeling to show that halogens like chlorate and bromate can convert manganese into minerals thousands of times faster than by oxygen.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2022

Michigan State University researchers uncover potential climate change-nutrition connection in plant metabolism

Researchers at Michigan State University have found a link between climate change and nutrition, showing that increased carbon dioxide levels can affect plant metabolic processes. The study highlights the importance of understanding how plants use amino acids to produce proteins, as this may impact their nutritional value.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Plants·DateDec 22, 2022

Less infectious particles from children’s lungs

A study found that children exhale fewer small particles, which are less likely to spread diseases like COVID-19. Larger particles produced by adults and children can transmit infections equally well, highlighting the importance of wearing high-efficiency masks for disease prevention.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalJournal of Aerosol Science·DateDec 22, 2022

Microplastics deposited on the seafloor triple in 20 years

Researchers found that microplastic mass sequestered in seafloor sediments mimics global plastic production from 1965 to 2016. The study revealed a tripling of microplastics deposited on the seafloor since 2000, with accumulation rates mirroring global use of plastics.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2022
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.

New application of intramuscular electromyography may facilitate detection of neuromuscular disorders

Researchers developed an iEMG classifier framework for detecting myopathy and neuropathy, achieving high accuracy in three muscle types and low computational time. The study showed promise for real-time implementation, aiding clinicians in making quick and accurate diagnoses.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalInternational Journal of Imaging Systems and Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 22, 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.

Ultrafast and ultra-sensitive protein detection method allows for ultra-early disease diagnoses

Osaka Metropolitan University scientists have developed a novel protein detection method that allows for ultra-fast and highly sensitive detection of proteins, enabling early disease diagnoses. The method uses light-induced acceleration of antigen-antibody reaction to detect attogram-level proteins within 3 minutes.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 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.

Novel spatial-omics technology enables investigation of diseases at their early stages

Researchers developed a new spatial-omics technology called DISCO-MS to detect early molecular changes in diseases. This approach allows for the characterization of diseased cells in intact tissues, revealing new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for conditions like Alzheimer's disease and atherosclerosis.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell·DateDec 22, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

High-energy X-rays leave a trace of destruction in bone collagen

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin discovered that high-energy X-rays can cause damage to bone collagen, even at low irradiation doses. The study used powerful X-ray sources and sensitive detectors to examine the effects on fish and mammalian bone samples.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2022

New X-ray imaging technique to study the transient phases of quantum materials

Researchers have developed a new imaging method that captures the light-induced phase transition in vanadium oxide (VO2) with high spatial and temporal resolution. The study reveals that pressure plays a larger role in these transitions than previously expected, challenging previous conclusions.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 22, 2022

VA study reveals dementia risks unique to people with African ancestry

Researchers identified six genes associated with dementia risk in people of African ancestry, differing from those found in European populations. The study highlights the need for increased representation of non-European ancestry groups in genetic research to address health disparities.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 22, 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.

Conspiracy believers more likely to endorse mythical causes of cancer

A study published in The BMJ found that people who believe in conspiracies and reject the covid-19 vaccine are more likely to endorse mythical causes of cancer than non-conspiracists. However, awareness of actual causes of cancer is generally higher among these groups.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 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.

The physical intelligence of ant and robot collectives

A team of simple robots, nicknamed RAnts, use photormones to escape a corral and perform complex tasks. The research reveals how collective cooperation can arise from simple rules, applicable to solving problems like construction, search and rescue, and defense.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournaleLife·DateDec 21, 2022

Rapid evolution of spermatogenesis

Heidelberg researchers decoded genetic regulation of sperm formation across various mammal species, including humans. The study revealed a time-related pattern of gene expression differences, highlighting the rapid evolution of spermatogenesis.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature·DateDec 21, 2022

Coral reefs are spatially distributed to maximize the availability of resources

Researchers discovered that cold-water coral reefs optimize their growth in response to ocean currents, capturing organic matter and resources. This self-organization allows them to thrive in deep environments, serving as architects of ecosystems and habitats for diverse species.

SourceInstitut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Infant gene therapy is a breakthrough for Artemis-SCID patients

A new gene therapy treatment has shown promising results in a clinical trial for Artemis-SCID patients, improving their immune function and reducing treatment complications. The treatment involves adding a healthy copy of the Artemis gene to the patient's own cells, resulting in improved T-cell and B-cell immunity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 21, 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.

Big dynorphin protects neurons from the accumulation of β-amyloid, one of the main triggers of Alzheimer's disease

A study reveals that big dynorphin, an endogenous opioid peptide, protects neurons against β-amyloid accumulation. The research suggests that big dynorphin can hinder the interaction between β-amyloid and form aggregates, promoting a neuroprotective effect.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalComputational and Structural Biotechnology Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Stem cell transplants may delay disability longer than some MS medications

A retrospective study found that hematopoietic stem cell transplants delayed disability progression and improved symptoms in people with active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. The study suggests that these transplants may be more effective than some MS medications, but further research is needed to confirm the findings.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 21, 2022

Researchers use quantum mechanics to see objects without looking at them

A new method bridges the quantum and classical worlds, enabling interaction-free detection of microwave pulses with a superconducting circuit. This breakthrough demonstrates genuine quantum advantage using a simpler setup, with potential applications in quantum computing, optical imaging, and cryptographic key distribution.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Nanoantennas directing a bright future

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed nanoantennas that significantly increase the efficiency and photoluminescence of white LEDs by replacing aluminum with titanium dioxide. This breakthrough enables the creation of intensely bright yet energy-saving solid-state lighting solutions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Restoring biodiversity in deforested ranches “one tree at a time"

Scientists have found that carefully planned patches of diverse vegetation can increase biodiversity and boost yields for farmers. By engaging local communities and co-designing restoration strategies with them, researchers demonstrate the potential to minimize fragmentation and enhance connectivity in Amazon landscapes.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalDiversity·DateDec 21, 2022

Cracking the mystery behind a deadly brain cancer

A team of researchers from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has made a breakthrough in understanding the deadly brain cancer glioblastoma. By linking the BRD8 protein to another key protein, P53, they have identified a potential target for new treatments that could extend patient survival and improve outcomes.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateDec 21, 2022

Wildfire threats not commonly disclosed by US firms despite risk to economy

A new study found that only 6.1% of US firms with wildfires in their headquarters county disclose wildfire risks in required federal filings, highlighting a gap in transparency and risk management. Firms are more likely to disclose risks when they have previously experienced wildfires, and the most disclosure-sensitive firms are those ...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Business Finance &amp Accounting·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 21, 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.

Better transplants for better joints: A closer look at micromechanical mismatch influences in cartilage regeneration

A team of scientists from TIBI, UIC, and POSTECH has elucidated key points on how cartilage generation is facilitated and alternative bone formation can be avoided. They found optimal conditions for better cartilage regeneration while reducing excessive cartilage formation using human mesenchymal stem cells.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Pediatric outpatient non-contrast brain MRI: A cost analysis at three U.S. hospitals

A new study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found significant cost savings by eliminating sedation during pediatric brain MRI examinations. The analysis calculated costs for sedated, nonsedated, and limited MRI exams at three US hospitals, revealing that labor costs were the largest expense category.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

Words prove their worth as teaching tools for robots

Researchers found that providing language descriptions of tools can accelerate a simulated robotic arm's learning of tool manipulation. The team used GPT-3 to obtain tool descriptions and showed improved performance in tasks such as pushing, lifting, sweeping, and hammering with new tools.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 21, 2022

UCLA Health tip sheet: Masks prevent more than COVID; Obesity and stroke; Reducing low value treatments in Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers at UCLA Health have found that masks can prevent not only COVID-19 but also whooping cough, while obesity is linked to an increased risk of stroke and cognitive impairment. The institute has also designed a clinical trial to reduce the use of low-value treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 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.

Ants shed light to predicting evolution after hybridization

Researchers at the University of Helsinki found that distinct hybrid wood ant populations evolved independently towards the same direction, indicating predictable outcomes. The study suggests that hybridization can help species cope with a warming climate by combining temperature ranges from both species.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 21, 2022

Chronic inflammation may lead to low milk production in breastfeeding moms

A new study found that chronic inflammation in lactating mothers with obesity may contribute to low milk production. The researchers analyzed fatty acid and inflammatory marker profiles in blood and breast milk, finding a strong correlation between the two in non-obese mothers but not in those with chronic inflammation.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateDec 21, 2022

Climate impacts are increasing; textbooks aren’t keeping pace

Researchers found that biology textbooks published between 1970 and 2019 provided insufficient climate change information, with median sentence counts decreasing over time. Climate coverage has varied substantially, but actionable solutions decreased significantly since the 1990s.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 21, 2022

Drug discovery may boost liver transplant success

Researchers found that a senolytic drug can preserve the biliary tract's regenerative capacity in liver cells damaged by cold storage. This discovery could lead to improved liver transplant success rates, saving lives and reducing costs associated with transplant failure.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Lower risk of alcohol disorders in top footballers but only from 1960s onwards

A nationwide cohort study in Sweden found that elite male football players have a lower risk of alcohol and drug related disorders compared to the general population. This protective effect was seen only for those who first played in the 1960s and later, while players from earlier eras had similar risks as men from the general population.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022

Multi-heterointerfaces for selective and efficient urea production

A new catalyst system has been developed for selective and efficient urea production. The catalyst features a multi-heterojunction interfacial structure that enhances high performance by minimizing incomplete charge transfer and suppressing by-product reactions.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 21, 2022

Ask for payment before or after? The effects of timing in pay-what-you-want pricing

Researchers found that consumers pay more when asked to make payment decisions after receiving the product, especially for high-value offerings. Conversely, lower values are paid when decisions are made before receipt. This timing effect can inform businesses and organizations implementing pay-what-you-want pricing mechanisms.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateDec 21, 2022

Study reveals the true value of elephants

A study reveals many elephant values are often overlooked in conservation strategies, prioritizing economic and ecological benefits over moral ones. The research highlights the importance of considering diverse stakeholder value systems to create more sustainable conservation policies.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalEcosystem Services·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 21, 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.

Culturally-informed mental health screenings improve school and community successes

A UCR-led analysis recommends culturally sensitive mental health screenings for schools, focusing on identifying social determinants of health and strengths. These screenings can help schools build resilience, address needs like food insecurity, and combat disproportionate referrals for special education or exclusionary discipline.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of School Psychology·TypeContent analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

Smoking increases chances of mid-life memory loss, confusion

A new study from Ohio State University found that middle-aged smokers are more likely to report memory loss and confusion compared to nonsmokers. Quitting smoking is associated with lower cognitive decline risk, even recently, suggesting quitting may have benefits for brain health.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2022