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Science News Archive December 2022 - Page 7


Page 7 of 31

Physics World cites UH research among top 10 breakthroughs of 2022

University of Houston researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in cubic boron arsenide, demonstrating exceptional high carrier mobility. This finding has significant implications for the development of efficient semiconductors, with potential applications in various electronic and optical fields.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPhysics World·DateDec 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.

Rethinking how cancer cells evade targeted therapy

UCSF researchers identified glioma's cellular source of recurrent disease, finding cells shift to mesenchymal, radiation-resistant phenotype in response to standard therapy. Paracrine signals from tumor microenvironment drive this transition through AP1 pathway, leading to therapy resistance and tumor recurrence.

SourceUniversity of California San Francisco Medical Center·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2022

Lonely heart-failure patients face worse outcomes than sociable peers

A new study found that older heart failure patients who feel they have lost their social role amongst friends and family are more likely to suffer poor clinical outcomes. The study highlights the need for a management program that includes a social approach to care, as social frailty is linked to worse outcomes.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 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.

UK woodlands could store almost twice as much carbon as previously estimated

A new study suggests that UK woodlands could store nearly twice as much carbon as previously thought, based on a 3D scanning technique and analysis of 815 trees in Wytham Woods. This underestimation has serious implications for climate mitigation, forest protection, and restoration targets.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEcological Solutions and Evidence·DateDec 20, 2022

Without guidance, Inflation Reduction Act tax credit may do more harm than good

The article discusses how the Inflation Reduction Act's hydrogen production tax credit could backfire by increasing carbon pollution without proper implementation. To mitigate this, researchers suggest enforcing additional guidelines for clean energy procurement alongside the tax credit.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2022

Signal processing algorithms improved turbulence in free-space optic tests

New signal-processing algorithms have been shown to help mitigate the impact of turbulence in free-space optical experiments. The researchers achieved record results using commercially available photonic lanterns and a spatial light modulator to emulate turbulence.

SourceAston University·JournalJournal of Lightwave Technology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 20, 2022

Sedimentary rock "chert" records cooling of the Earth over billions of years

Researchers analyzed 550 million-year-old cherts to uncover the secrets of early Earth's cooling. The study found that oxygen isotope ratios in ancient cherts are driven by the Earth's thermal evolution, not seawater temperatures, sparking new insights into the planet's history.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 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.

Strong metaphorical messages can help tackle toxic e-waste

A new study from the University of Portsmouth explores how to improve sustainable disposal of electronic waste. Researchers found that using metaphorical language, such as comparing battery pollution to Olympic swimming pools, increased recycling rates among consumers.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·TypeObservational study·DateDec 20, 2022

The science of supermoms

Researchers found that dopamine-releasing neurons in the ventral tegmental area of the brain drive maternal instincts through reinforcement learning. This process creates an expectation of future rewards, influencing mothers to pick up their crying children again.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNeuron·DateDec 20, 2022

New software based on Artificial Intelligence helps to interpret complex data

Researchers have developed a new software based on artificial intelligence that can help interpret complex data. The software, called disentangled variational autoencoder network (β-VAE), uses two neural networks to compress and reconstruct data, allowing humans to understand the underlying core principle without prior knowledge.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2022

Academy scientists describe 146 new species in 2022

Researchers added 146 new animal, plant, and fungi species to the tree of life, including 44 lizards, 30 ants, and 14 sea slugs. This discovery highlights the importance of protecting island ecosystems and advancing biodiversity science for conservation action.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 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.

Developing antibiotics that target multiple-drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a new class of antibacterial compounds targeting MraY, effective against MRSA and VRE. The findings provide a promising lead for the development of more effective antibiotics against multidrug-resistant bacteria.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2022

Loon stratospheric balloons confirm wind data from Aeolus

Researchers from Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research and European Space Agency use Loon project data to validate Aeolus satellite wind measurements, finding almost bias-free results. They recommend increasing vertical resolution for future wind satellites to improve accuracy.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalQuarterly Journal of the Royal Meteorological Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2022

Managing precision and stabilizing local knowledge

A German-made meridian circle was installed at the National Astronomical Observatory of Chile in 1911 to support international astronomy work, including establishing official time and cataloging stars. The precise performance relied on collaboration between the manufacturer, astronomer Friedrich W. Ristenpart, and local laborers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalIsis·DateDec 20, 2022

Large-scale study led by Fred Hutch finds new genetic risk factors for colorectal cancer, paving the way for better screening, prevention

A comprehensive analysis of over 100,000 colorectal cancer cases identified 100 new genetic risk factors strongly linked with the disease. These findings could help clinicians determine who's at highest risk for early detection and potentially identify candidates for preventive treatments.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 20, 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.

Researchers analyze performance of bacterium in combating coffee rust

A study analyzed the potential of a bacterium to combat coffee rust, a major challenge for Brazilian coffee growers. The researchers found that the bacterium produces antibacterial and antifungal compounds, as well as proteins associated with protection against water stress, making it a promising candidate for biological control.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBMC Microbiology·DateDec 20, 2022

New therapies have raised Medicare treatment costs for metastatic prostate cancer

A study found that Medicare costs for metastatic prostate cancer increased significantly between 2007 and 2017, with average annual spending per patient rising from $28,311 to $37,055. The majority of the increase was attributed to new treatments under Medicare Part D, such as radium-223, sipuleucel-T, abiraterone, and enzalutamide.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalUrology Practice·DateDec 20, 2022

Biodegradable medical gowns produce harmful emissions

Research by Cornell University reveals that biodegradable medical gowns release harmful emissions due to faster decomposition rates. The study suggests adopting landfill gas capture and utilization processes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and toxicity.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateDec 20, 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.

Not all mushrooms are alike

A team of scientists from the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf investigated how four different fungal species interact with europium, a rare earth element. They found that fungi like the Split-Gill can bind up to four times more europium compared to other species, and that the binding site and transport mechanisms differ among them.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2022

Screening of osteoporosis lags other diseases

Despite the availability of accurate tests, bone density screenings for women over 65 years old have dropped significantly since 2009. The decline coincided with a reduction in Medicare reimbursements for office-based scans, particularly affecting rural communities.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateDec 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.

Heat and cold as health hazards

Recent studies investigate heat waves and cold exposure on the cardiovascular system, revealing physiological responses that can lead to cardiovascular problems. Mild heat waves cause an increase in core temperature, skin blood flow, and vascular resistance, while mild cold exposure causes a similar rise in blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 2022

Artificial DNA kills cancer

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed artificial DNA that can target and kill cancer cells by binding to microRNA molecules. The DNA triggers an immune response that not only kills cancer cells but also prevents further growth of cancerous tissue.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2022

Antidepressant use, infection during pregnancy linked to neurodevelopmental disorders

Research from University of Virginia Health System suggests antidepressants can heighten lifelong brain changes in babies, such as autism, when combined with infection or inflammation during pregnancy. SSRIs interact powerfully with the mother's body, causing harmful changes in the placenta and developing brain.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·DateDec 20, 2022

Blood donation samples can be used to monitor progress of epidemics, study shows

Researchers developed a method to estimate seroprevalence using blood donation samples, offering insights into the first year of the COVID-19 epidemic in Brazil. The study found significant differences among regions and subgroups, highlighting the need for real-time tracking and forecasting of future waves.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournaleLife·DateDec 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.

Digital marker for coronary artery disease built by researchers at Mount Sinai

Researchers at Mount Sinai developed a digital marker for coronary artery disease using machine learning and electronic health records. The model accurately measures CAD on a spectrum, revealing distinct gradations of disease risk and survival, which may otherwise be missed with conventional binary frameworks.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 20, 2022

3D-patient tumor avatars: Maximizing their potential for next-generation precision oncology

The use of 3D-patient tumor avatars (3D-PTAs) is crucial for guiding treatment decisions in precision oncology. These avatars, including patient-derived organoids, 3D bioprinting, and microscale models, can accurately depict a tumor with its microenvironment, enabling the testing and prediction of therapeutic drug efficacy.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalCancer Cell·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 20, 2022

For long-term care facilities, prioritizing part-time employees can boost consistency of care

A new study found that prioritizing part-time employees can significantly improve the consistency of care in long-term care facilities. By consistently assigning part-time workers and having flexible full-time workers, facilities can reduce the average number of different nursing assistants a resident interacts with by 20-30% each month.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalManufacturing and Service Operations Management·DateDec 20, 2022

New biomarker strategy devised to screen for, diagnose deadly heart complication from cancer treatment

Researchers at Michigan Medicine have developed a new biomarker-based strategy to screen for immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myocarditis, which can cause muscle damage and liver injury. Early detection of these biomarkers can lead to earlier treatment and improved survival rates.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJACC CardioOncology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 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.

Found: A protective probiotic for ALS

Scientists at the CRCHUM have identified a protective probiotic for ALS, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HA-114, that prevents neurodegeneration in the C. elegans worm model. The probiotic helps reduce motor disorders and restore balance to impaired energy metabolism, leading to a decrease in neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2022

Third of long Covid patients suffer persistent smell loss

A new study reveals that almost a third of long Covid patients suffer from persistent smell loss, with nearly a fifth experiencing loss of taste. The condition can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInternational Forum of Allergy & Rhinology·TypeSurvey·DateDec 20, 2022

Virtual reality game to objectively detect ADHD

A virtual reality game called EPELI has been developed to assess ADHD symptoms in children by simulating everyday situations. The game uses eye tracking and machine learning to detect differences in eye movements, which can indicate attention deficits.

SourceAalto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 2022

Feeling too busy or stressed? ‘Tis the season to prioritize self-care

A study from Indiana University Kelley School of Business found that when consumers are stressed, they benefit the most from taking time to 'self-gift', engaging in activities that prioritize their emotional well-being. This approach can lead to reduced stress in the long run and increased happiness.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 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.

FRIB researchers develop new identification device for heavy-ion particles

The Energy Loss Optical Scintillation System (ELOSS) represents a significant advancement in experimental nuclear physics instrumentation. Researchers can now study isotopes at high beam rates and performance, with the new detector offering nearly three times better resolution and counting rates compared to conventional charge readout ...

SourceMichigan State University Facility for Rare Isotope Beams·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateDec 20, 2022

Study identifies a signaling cascade behind retina regeneration in zebrafish

Researchers have identified a Vegf-Notch signaling system that enables Muller glial cells to regenerate retinal neurons in zebrafish. This discovery may help understand why the human retina does not regenerate and could inform treatments for blindness.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 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.

Carbon dioxide removal should receive additional financial support

A study suggests that subsidies for carbon dioxide removal should be higher than the price on carbon emissions due to economic leakage. This is because ambitious countries reducing emissions can lead to other countries increasing their emissions, reducing overall emissions reduction. In contrast, carbon dioxide removal does not affect ...

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2022

Early forests did not significantly change the atmospheric CO2

Scientists have discovered that early forests contained much lower CO2 levels than previously thought, challenging long-held theories about the climate's history. The research, published in Nature Communications, found that these ancient forests had a minimal impact on atmospheric CO2 levels over time.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2022

Orangutan communication sheds light on human speech origins

Research reveals orangutans' complex repertoire of consonant-like calls, unlike African apes, providing clues about human language evolution. The study suggests that tree-dwelling apes may have developed greater control over their lips and tongue, leading to the emergence of consonants and ultimately, speech.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateDec 20, 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.

Study: Network neuroscience theory best predictor of intelligence

A new analysis offers the clearest picture yet of how various brain regions and neural networks contribute to a person's problem-solving ability. The network neuroscience theory, which posits that intelligence emerges from the global architecture of the brain, outperformed other theories in predicting general intelligence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·TypeObservational study·DateDec 20, 2022

The Three-dimensional structure of the mammalian genome, more diverse than ever seen before

A study by Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona reveals the three-dimensional structure of mammalian genomes is more diverse than previously seen, with different patterns of chromosome folding identified in various species. The research provides new interpretative hypotheses about the plasticity of the genome and its role in evolution.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCell Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2022

Humans continue to evolve with the emergence of new genes

A team of scientists identified 155 new genes that spontaneously arose from tiny sections of the human DNA, some associated with growth defects, muscular dystrophy, and other diseases. These 'microgenes' also play a role in maintaining healthy heart tissue.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·TypeObservational study·DateDec 20, 2022

A small structural change but a large biochemical effect – Structure of a bacteriophytochrome in two states revealed

Researchers have successfully uncovered the structure of a model bacterial phytochrome, revealing symmetrical and asymmetrical states in response to light. The study found that almost non-existent structural changes in regulatory domains can amplify biochemical effects elsewhere.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 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.

New study shows scientists improve communication, education skills after working with teachers

A new case study shows that scientists who worked with K-12 teachers improved their communication skills, gained a better understanding of teaching, and wanted to continue K-12 outreach. The study also found that these partnerships had a positive impact on the quality of lesson plans and classroom management.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalEvolution Education and Outreach·DateDec 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.