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Science News for July 22, 2022


Electronic cigarette use among adults in US

A study of 994,000 US adults found a slight decrease in current e-cigarette use between 2018 and 2020, mainly among young adults aged 18-20. Daily e-cigarette use increased, particularly among those aged 21-24, indicating greater nicotine dependence.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 22, 2022

A ‘weak spot’ discovered that potentially makes multi-drug resistant tumors vulnerable

A team of researchers has discovered a link between the FBXW7 gene and multidrug resistance in tumors, suggesting that targeting this vulnerability could lead to new treatment options. The study found that FBXW7-deficient cells are more susceptible to certain types of drugs that activate the integrated stress response.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateJul 22, 2022

In brief: COVID-19 vaccine does not negatively affect placental health

Researchers found no significant differences in placental health indicators, birth weights, or Apgar scores between vaccinated and unvaccinated women. Vaccination against COVID-19 was shown to be safe during pregnancy, protecting both mothers and babies from severe illness.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 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.

No clear medical definition of ‘growing pains’

A study published in Pediatrics found that there is no consistent medical definition of growing pains, with over 93% of studies not referencing growth or age. The condition's vague and contradictory definitions raise questions about its connection to growth and cause.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 22, 2022

New method can improve explosion detection

A new method can improve explosion detection by training computers to recognize synthetic infrasound signals, which reflect regional and global atmospheric changes. This approach broadens the usefulness of single-element infrasound microphones for detecting subtle explosion signals in near real-time.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 22, 2022

Colorectal cancer tumors both helped and hindered by T cells

Research reveals T cells in colorectal cancer have a double-edged function. Initially protective against tumor growth, they later promote cancer progression by altering their receptors and producing pro-inflammatory cytokines. The study offers new insights into the role of T cells in colorectal cancer and potential avenues for therapy.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateJul 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.

How the intestine replaces and repairs itself

Research reveals that lymphatic capillaries communicate with intestinal stem cells to regulate their activity and promote regeneration. The findings provide new insights into the role of lymphatics in maintaining the health of the intestine.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 22, 2022

Strengthening the immune response to cancer

Researchers at Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine found that silencing the EBAG9 gene in CAR T cells increases their effectiveness and reduces side effects. This breakthrough could lead to a new therapy approach for blood cancer patients.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJul 22, 2022

Researchers report high carrier mobility for cubic boron arsenide

Scientists have measured the Hall effect and used optical techniques to reveal high ambipolar mobility in c-BAs, exceeding 1550 cm² V⁻¹ s⁻¹. The material's ultrahigh thermal conductivity makes it a promising candidate for improving CPU speeds.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateJul 22, 2022

Finding the right memory strategy to slow cognitive decline

A new study led by researchers from the University of Michigan and Penn State College of Medicine compared two approaches for people with early form of memory loss: mnemonic strategy training and spaced retrieval training. Mnemonic strategy training showed increased brain activity in areas often affected by Alzheimer's disease, while s...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAlzheimers Disease & Dementia·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 22, 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.

Ant colonies behave like neural networks when making decisions

A new study suggests that ant colonies behave similarly to networks of neurons in the brain, combining sensory information with group parameters to arrive at a collective response. The findings indicate that ants adjust their decision-making based on the magnitude of heat increase and group size.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 22, 2022

KIST develops key technology for quantum cryptography commercialization

The Korea Institute of Science and Technology has successfully demonstrated a practical TF QKD network, the second in the world. The new architecture is based on a star network, eliminating the need for complex control systems. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of quantum cryptography.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateJul 22, 2022

Measuring the universe with star-shattering explosions

Researchers analyzed archive data from powerful cosmic explosions to find a new way to measure distances in the universe. They identified a class of 179 gamma-ray bursts with common features, which can be used as a cosmological tool.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·TypeObservational study·DateJul 22, 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.

Preterm birth is more likely with exposure to phthalates

A Rutgers researcher contributed to a National Institutes of Health study confirming a link between phthalate exposure and increased risk of preterm birth. The study examined data from 6,045 pregnant women in the U.S., finding that higher concentrations of phthalate metabolites were associated with slightly higher odds of preterm birth.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 22, 2022

Genetic defect leads to motor disorders in flies

A genetic defect in flies leads to motor disorders, similar to those found in humans with Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that Creld, a protein involved in energy production, may play an important role in the development of Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 22, 2022

International study identifies risks for Long COVID in children

A recent international study identified risks of Long COVID in children, with nearly 6% experiencing symptoms 90 days after initial hospitalization. The study found that age 14 or older, multiple initial symptoms, and prolonged hospital stays increased the risk of long-term COVID-19.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 22, 2022
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.

Nonthermal plasma-promoted CO2 hydrogenation in presence of alloy catalysts

Researchers from Tokyo Tech investigated nonthermal plasma-promoted CO2 hydrogenation on Pd2Ga/SiO2 catalysts, revealing a more than two-fold increase in CO2 conversion compared to thermal methods. The study provides mechanistic insights into the NTP-activated species and metallic catalyst interaction.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 2022

Scientists find molecular clues behind acute and chronic phases of traumatic brain injury

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered molecular signatures associated with acute and chronic phases of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study aims to address current limitations in TBI diagnosis and treatment by identifying biomarkers and understanding the blood-brain barrier's role in drug delivery.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 2022

Making sense of socially enhanced aggression in the brain

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba discovered that the lateral habenula brain region plays a crucial role in amplifying aggressive behavior in response to social interactions. Blocking this pathway eliminated increased aggression caused by social instigation, highlighting its significance in promoting aggressive arousal.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 22, 2022

ALS: Early disease mechanisms discovered

A team of researchers has discovered a protein called NOVA1 that displays pathological characteristics in ALS patients at an early stage. This finding could lead to the development of new therapy concepts and potentially enable early detection of the disease.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateJul 22, 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.

‘Smart necklace’ biosensor may track health status through sweat

Researchers have developed a battery-free biosensor that can track glucose levels in sweat using radio frequency signals. The device, resembling a smart necklace, showed promising results in monitoring glucose levels during exercise and has potential applications for detecting other biomarkers in bodily fluids.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 2022

Changes in staffing in nursing homes during COVID-19 outbreaks

A study of nearly 3,000 nursing homes found severe COVID-19 outbreaks resulted in temporary increases in contract staff and overtime, but these measures did not fully replace lost staff. The staffing declines remained significant for 16 weeks after the outbreak's start.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 22, 2022

Light polarization creates art, explains mathematical concepts

Scientists explore how polarized light can create colorful artwork by manipulating transparent films between polarizers. This technique demonstrates key physics concepts, such as birefringence and retardance, in a visual and accessible way.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAmerican Journal of Physics·DateJul 22, 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.

A more balanced public health approach is needed for e-cigarette use

A recent study on adult e-cigarette use highlights the need for a more nuanced public health approach. While e-cigarettes pose risks, they also offer potential benefits for cessation of combustible cigarette smoking. Researchers suggest balancing concerns with evidence-based strategies to promote e-cigarette use as a tool for quitting.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 22, 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.

Progress in bioanalytics: Production of RNA chips significantly simplified

Researchers have developed a new method to produce RNA chips, which can help elucidate the functions of RNA molecules in cells. The method allows for quick and easy conversion from commercially available DNA chips, paving the way for further applications in disease diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 22, 2022

Scientists expand entomological research using genome editing

Researchers have developed Fanflow4Insects, a functional annotation workflow that annotates gene functions in insects. The team has annotated the Japanese stick insect and silkworm, providing valuable information for entomological research and genome editing.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalInsects·DateJul 22, 2022

Dynamic mental illness indicators caught by advanced AI in brain imaging

Researchers from Georgia State University developed an AI model that can analyze large amounts of brain imaging data to identify novel patterns linked to mental health conditions. The model was trained on datasets of over 10,000 individuals and showed promise in predicting Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and autism risk.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 22, 2022

SWEET RESEARCH: CHEMISTS UNLOCK SECRETS OF MOLTEN SALTS

Researchers have developed a novel simulation method to calculate free energy using deep learning artificial intelligence, providing accurate models of molten salts' thermodynamic properties. The study could help examine corrosion in metal containers and improve the design of next-generation nuclear reactors.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 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.

International study identifies risks for Long COVID in children

A study of 1,884 children with COVID-19 found that nearly 6% developed long COVID 90 days later, with age 14 and four or more initial symptoms being key factors. The study suggests the need for guidance and follow-up for high-risk children.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJul 22, 2022

Human activities increase likelihood of more extreme heatwaves, researchers find

A recent study found that greenhouse gases are the primary reason for increased temperatures and will likely continue to be the main contributing factor. Simulations show that extreme heatwave events will increase by over 30 percentage points in coming years, primarily due to human-caused emissions.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJul 22, 2022

Prevalence of mental health problems in transgender children

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that nearly half of transgender and gender diverse children experience mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. The study evaluated over 7,200 children aged 9-10 and highlights the need for increased support and resources for this vulnerable population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 22, 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.

Porous crystals bind fluorine-containing greenhouse gases

Researchers at Heidelberg University have created crystalline materials that can selectively bind polyfluorinated hydrocarbons on their surface. The porous crystals show extremely high selectivity for adsorbing fluorine-containing greenhouse gases, which have a significant impact on global warming.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 22, 2022