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Science News for June 20, 2022


Inhaled toxic particles take direct route from lungs to brain - study

A new study reveals that inhaled fine particles can take a direct route from lungs to brain through blood circulation, potentially contributing to brain disorders. The particles were found to stay longer in the brain than in other organs, raising concerns about the long-term effects of air pollution on cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 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.

New drug suggests more successful breast cancer treatment in future

Researchers have developed a new drug called OximUNO, which has shown to treat breast cancer in mice by targeting tumor-associated macrophages. The treatment reduces primary tumour lesions and lung metastasis, and prolongs the survival of mice with triple-negative breast cancer.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalCancer Research Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

Study uncovers new treatment approaches for liver cancer patients

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Cancer have identified a novel immune checkpoint pathway that could lead to better understanding and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. The study suggests that blocking this pathway, combined with immunotherapy, may provide a new therapeutic strategy for liver cancer.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJun 20, 2022

All types of cancer cells are captured during spin

Researchers developed a fully automated technique to isolate rare circulating tumor cells from patient blood samples, revealing the diversity of cancer cells in the body. The method's accuracy was confirmed through DNA testing, allowing for personalized treatment strategies to be modified.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalTheranostics·DateJun 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.

Levitating objects with sound could revolutionize virtual reality and 3D printing

Scientists have successfully levitated objects using soundwaves in the presence of obstacles, paving the way for advancements in virtual reality and 3D printing. This breakthrough enables the creation of fully immersive real-world simulations and improved multi-material 3D printing capabilities.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2022

New CityU exfoliation technique “recovers” biomaterial’s piezoelectricity

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong developed a simple exfoliation method to prepare ultrathin films of small intestine tissues, which exhibit piezoelectricity. The team's findings reveal the hierarchical structure of collagen fibers as the key to generating the piezoelectric effect.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

A better understanding of survival rates for lung transplant recipients

A recent study published in the Journal of Cardiac Surgery found that lung transplant recipients have a standardized mortality rate approximately five times higher than nonhospitalized adults. The main causes of death include rejection of the new organ, pneumonia, and infections.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Cardiac Surgery·DateJun 20, 2022

Study reveals hierarchy between the body's limbs and the voice

Researchers at Aarhus University found a hierarchical relationship between motor function and coordination of the voice, hands, and feet. This hierarchy determines which rhythm and beat combinations are easy to perform, regardless of musical expertise.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 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.

Novel treatment for rare form of kidney cancer uncovered

Researchers have discovered a novel treatment approach for chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (ChRCC) by targeting ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death. This strategy may provide an effective treatment option for patients with this rare and currently untreatable disease.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

Predicting how fire risks can go from fine to inferno

A Yale University team predicts fire risks can shift from low to catastrophic in a matter of hours, highlighting the need for more accurate models to understand global fire regimes. Climate change exacerbates conditions that fuel intense fires, making land management and prediction challenging.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2022

Biological clocks set for skin immunity

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered the skin's natural protection from nighttime bacterial invasion in mice, which may provide a basis for developing a drug treatment. The team found that epidermal CXCL14 is produced in a circadian rhythm-dependent manner, providing antimicrobial function against Staphylococcus aureus.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 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.

New hybrid machine learning forecasts lake ecosystem responses to climate change

Researchers have developed a new hybrid machine learning approach that forecasts lake ecosystem responses to climate change with improved accuracy. The model, which uses data-driven methods and minimal assumptions, is able to capture the complex relationships between variables in ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 20, 2022

Blood pressure e-tattoo promises continuous, mobile monitoring

Researchers at University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M have developed an electronic tattoo that can deliver continuous blood pressure measurements with accuracy exceeding most available options. The device uses graphene bioimpedance analysis to take precise readings, promising a significant improvement in mobile health monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 20, 2022

Study uncovers pancreas cell type-specific activities of IL18

A new study reveals that IL18 signaling is essential for β-cell development and insulin secretion, using specific receptors on acinar and β cells. This finding may provide insights into the role of IL18 in regulating islet β cell proliferation and guide future efforts to expand β cells and increase islet mass in diabetes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 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.

Old Norse settlers traded walrus ivory with Kyiv

Archaeologists uncover layers of houses and various objects from the 10th to 13th centuries, including Hnefatafl pieces and glass. The most significant find is nine walrus ivory fragments that were later analyzed using DNA and isotopic analysis to determine their origin.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2022

UTSW scientists identify protein key to inhibiting flu virus

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a novel function for the TAO2 protein, which inhibits influenza virus replication. Down-regulating TAO2 levels prevents viral replication in cells without causing major toxic effects.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2022

Choosing the best seeds to help sessile oaks adapt to future climates

A 30-year study by INRAE and ONF identified 34 oak populations with good combinations of traits as seed sources for plantings in France. Seed sources from regions with a long tradition of forestry have the best ecological and silvicultural traits, enabling the species to adapt to climate change.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalAnnals of Forest Science·DateJun 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.

5-minute record for diagnosis

A new method using the Vortex fluidic device can test hundreds of proteins in under 5 minutes, with data readable by a cell phone camera. This technology has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment of diseases in remote areas, reducing mortality and morbidity.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

Gut microbiota of wild Assamese macaques become more unique with age

Research on wild Assamese macaques reveals that their gut bacteria composition changes uniquely with age, despite similar lifestyles. This finding suggests that the process is part of natural aging and not due to lifestyle changes, with potential implications for developing personalized therapies against intestinal diseases.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalMicrobiome·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 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.

TCF-1 protein plays essential role in breaking down barriers as T cells form

Researchers discovered that the TCF-1 protein enables plasticity in cells across neighborhoods during T cell development, weakening insulation and increasing interactions between adjacent neighborhoods. This finding sheds new light on immunotherapy approaches and could lead to more efficient cancer treatments.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

University of Illinois team topples the longstanding "efficiency droop" barrier to green-light LEDs

Researchers have long struggled to create high-power green LEDs due to the 'efficiency droop' phenomenon. The University of Illinois team has now discovered a way to avoid this issue by using cubic-phase crystal structures, which halves efficiency droop in InGaAlN light-emitting diodes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalIEEE Transactions on Electron Devices·DateJun 20, 2022

The greening ashore

The invasion of plants onto land triggered a transformation of the hostile environment, accelerating atmospheric changes. This process laid the foundations for modern terrestrial flora, including flowering plants that comprise over 90% of all known species.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateJun 20, 2022

New model helps identify mutations that drive cancer

A new computer model has been developed to rapidly scan cancer genomes and identify harmful driver mutations that contribute to tumor growth. The model, trained on genomic data from various types of cancer, found additional mutations in 5-10% of patients that could help doctors identify more effective treatment options.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 20, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Single brain scan can diagnose Alzheimer’s disease

A new approach uses a single magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan to diagnose Alzheimer's disease with high accuracy, identifying changes in regions not previously associated with the condition. This method has the potential to revolutionize diagnosis and treatment, allowing for early intervention and improved patient outcomes.

SourceImperial College London·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateJun 20, 2022

Sports, not screens: The key to happier, healthier children

A new study found that children who participate in extra-curricular activities experience heightened wellbeing, while those glued to screens show lower levels of happiness and health. The research highlights the importance of encouraging children to engage in physical activities beyond screens.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBMC Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 2022

Who benefits from brain training and why?

A joint UC Riverside and UC Irvine study found that people who show near transfer in brain training are more likely to experience far transfer, meaning improved focus and problem-solving skills. The research suggests that working memory training can be effective for certain individuals, but its impact on fluid intelligence remains deba...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 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.

KyotoU PEGS away at catching quakes at light speed

A new approach based on deep learning AI detects weak gravitational signals, or PEGS, generated by large-mass motion in megaquakes. This allows for real-time tracking of earthquake growth after a magnitude 8 event.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2022

The state-of-the-art in computer-generated holography for 3D display

Researchers present a broad overview of modern computer-generated holography (CGH) algorithms, acceleration techniques, and dedicated hardware solutions. They classify CGH algorithms based on discretization methods and discuss visual quality assessment to optimize perceptual quality.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateJun 20, 2022

Surveillance of non-communicable diseases enhanced by big data

The article discusses how big data can improve non-communicable disease (NCD) surveillance by providing real-time information and reducing costs. This new approach uses electronic health records, national administrative data, and other datasets to track NCDs more effectively.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·DateJun 20, 2022

Scientists conceptualize a species ‘stock market’ to put a price tag on actions posing risks to biodiversity

A conceptual species 'stock market' aims to assign economic value to species and ecosystems, promoting sustainability and biodiversity conservation. The SSM would enable the valuation of ecosystem services and actions that harm or benefit biodiversity, fostering a unified approach to environmental decision-making.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalResearch Ideas and Outcomes·DateJun 20, 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.

Unveiling the mysteries of the genome structure in the human cell nucleus using a 3D computational simulation

Researchers at Nagoya University created a 3D model of the human genome structure, analyzing its dynamics and functions. The study provides new insights into chromatin distribution, cell division, and transcription regulation, shedding light on cellular processes and potential disease mechanisms.

SourceNagoya University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 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.

Science coverage of climate change can change minds – briefly

A new study suggests that science reporting on climate change can lead to more accurate beliefs and support government action, but these effects are short-lived. Researchers found that factually accurate science reporting changed people's factual understanding and moved their political preferences towards supporting climate action.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

Study shows genotype leads to discontinued, decreased medication

A study found that a genetic variant associated with low white blood cell counts, common in people of African ancestry, is linked to discontinued or decreased azathioprine medication. This suggests considering genetic factors before altering treatments.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 20, 2022

Melting Arctic ice could transform international shipping routes, study finds

Climate change is causing rapid warming in the Arctic Ocean, which may lead to shorter, more eco-friendly maritime trade routes. This could reduce the shipping industry's carbon footprint and weaken Russia's control over trade routes through the Arctic. New trade routes could also increase global shipping infrastructure resilience.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 2022

A better characterization of disinhibition in frontotemporal degeneration

Researchers developed a semi-ecological approach combining behavioral assessment and brain imaging to assess disinhibition in frontotemporal degeneration. The study found that compulsivity and social disinhibition are key components of the symptom, which can be distinguished using neuroanatomical correlates.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalNeuroImage Clinical·TypeObservational study·DateJun 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.

Can feelings be wrong?

A study published in Psychological Science found that our brains treat some emotions as wrong and react as if there was an error. The research, conducted by Ben-Gurion University psychologists, used experiments to assess emotion responses and discovered similarities between counter-normative emotion reports and perceptual errors.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalPsychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

New model offers potential solutions for next-generation battery challenges

Researchers developed a mathematical model that brings together physics and chemistry involved in dendrite formation, suggesting swapping new electrolytes with certain properties could slow or stop dendrite growth. The study aims to guide the design of lithium-metal batteries with longer life span.

SourceStanford University·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateJun 20, 2022

Heightened risk of eating disorders for transgender, gender-diverse college students

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health reveals that transgender and gender-diverse college students are at a higher risk of developing an eating disorder. The study highlights the importance of colleges and universities in recognizing and addressing this issue, particularly among students with intersecting identities.

SourceBoston University·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateJun 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.

Medicare could save up to $3.6 billion by purchasing generic drugs at Mark Cuban prices

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that Medicare could save up to $3.6 billion by purchasing generic drugs at the same prices as the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company. The researchers compared the price of 89 generic drugs sold by MCCPDC to the price Medicare paid in 2020 and estimated potential savings of up to $3....

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 2022

Chinese Medical Journal review explores the role of macrophages in the progression of acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease

A recent review article highlights the crucial role of macrophages in the progression from acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study suggests that targeting specific signaling pathways and altering macrophage activation can prevent renal fibrosis and CKD. Therapeutic strategies such as clodronate liposomes an...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 20, 2022

What makes blood vessels grow?

Researchers have identified a crucial role for two proteins YAP and TAZ in angiogenesis, the process of new blood vessel formation. They also found that this process is regulated by nutrient absorption and can be linked to vascular diseases like macular degeneration.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJun 20, 2022

Biologist receives NSF early career award

Alison Ravenscraft, a UTA assistant professor of biology, has received a $895,000 grant from the NSF's Faculty Early Career Development Program. Her research focuses on how gut microbiota helps insects break down plant toxins, potentially reducing crop losses and pesticide use.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJun 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.

Henry Ford Health study suggests robotic surgery may lower risk for hip replacement complications

A study published in The Journal of Arthroplasty found that robotic-assisted surgery for hip replacement had lower rates of dislocation and instability compared to traditional methods. This is attributed to the increased precision and control offered by robotic technology, which enables surgeons to position implants more accurately.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalThe Journal of Arthroplasty·DateJun 20, 2022

A rare discovery of long-term memory in wild frog-eating bats

Researchers found that frog-eating bats trained to associate a phone ringtone with a tasty treat could remember what they learned for up to four years in the wild. The study, led by May Dixon at Ohio State University, used 49 bats and introduced three other ringtones without food rewards.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 20, 2022

Bodychecking experience does not lower risk of injury for teen hockey players

A new study published in CMAJ found that youth hockey players with more years of bodychecking experience had a significantly higher risk of concussion than those with less experience. The researchers collected data on 941 players aged 15-17 and found that concussion was the most common injury, making up over one-third of all injuries.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJun 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.

Assessing the environmental impact of nuclear power generation

A study by Ritsumeikan University researchers analyzed the life cycle assessment of nuclear power generation, revealing varying TMR coefficients across different mining methods and fuel cycles. The results show that nuclear power generates similar natural resources as renewable energy, significantly less than thermal power.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2022

BU researchers studying the link between the brain’s extracellular matrix and diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and schizophrenia

Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine provide comprehensive information on mass spectrometry-based studies of the brain's extracellular matrix in neurological disorders. The study highlights changes in ECM molecule expression associated with neurodegenerative diseases, providing new avenues for treatment and diagnosis.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalMass Spectrometry Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 20, 2022

How the brain prepares to think

Jose Rizo-Rey, a professor of Biophysics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, has been exploring the process of synaptic vesicle fusion using the Frontera supercomputer. His research reveals that specialized proteins are

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournaleLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 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.

New effective combination therapy for paediatric T-acute leukaemia

A joint study by Finnish and US researchers has found a new combination of drugs that is effective against T-acute leukaemia, with temsirolimus and dasatinib showing enhanced synergistic effect. The therapy has shown promise in eradicating leukaemia cells in zebrafish and human disease.

SourceTampere University·JournalBlood·DateJun 20, 2022

Lack of diversity of microorganisms in the gut or elevated metabolite implicated in heart failure severity

A systematic review found that reduced gut microbiome diversity and elevated trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) metabolite levels are associated with increased risk of death and hospital visits in heart failure patients. Further research on the impact of diet and potential interventions is underway.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalHeart Failure Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 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.