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Science News Archive June 2022 - Page 21


Page 21 of 40

Dog-assisted interventions lead to lower stress levels in children

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that dog-assisted interventions can significantly reduce stress levels in elementary school children, both with and without special needs. The research used salivary cortisol levels to track the effects of dog interactions on stress levels, revealing a decrease in cortisol levels after dog sessions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 15, 2022

New material paves the way for remote-controlled medication and electronic pills

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have invented a material that uses electrical signals to separate biomolecules, paving the way for efficient production of biomedicines. The material's ability to function in biological fluids with buffering capacity enables remote-controlled drug release and reduces energy consumption.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 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.

Air pollution and climate change take a growing toll on children's health

Climate-related events and air pollution disproportionately affect socially and economically disadvantaged children, exacerbating health issues such as preterm birth, respiratory illness, and malnutrition. The authors emphasize the need for simultaneous adaptation and mitigation strategies to protect children's health.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 15, 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.

Inadequate charging networks could thwart EV adoption goals

Researchers warn policymakers that inadequate charging networks can derail EV adoption efforts, particularly if floods disrupt charging infrastructure, affecting not just the immediate area but also farther away. Strong public confidence in the network is crucial for long-term adoption and meeting carbon reduction targets.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateJun 15, 2022

Nordic walking improves functional capacity in people with heart disease

A novel study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology demonstrates that Nordic walking provides greater long-term improvements in functional capacity compared to high-intensity interval training and moderate-to-vigorous intensity continuous training. Nordic walking engages core, upper, and lower body muscles, resulting in a sig...

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 15, 2022

Olive trees were first domesticated 7,000 years ago

Researchers from Tel Aviv University and the Hebrew University discovered charcoal remnants from olive trees at the Chalcolithic site of Tel Zaf, indicating intentional cultivation around 7,000 years ago. This marks the earliest evidence of domestication of a fruit tree worldwide.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 15, 2022

Preadolescents exposed to high levels of air pollution in their first years of life display changes in brain connectivity

A recent study found that higher exposure to air pollution is associated with increased functional brain connectivity among several brain regions in preadolescents. The findings also identify the first years of life as the most sensitive period for exposure to air pollution, with black carbon particles being the most associated polluta...

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·TypeObservational study·DateJun 15, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

All-optical switching on a nanometer scale

Scientists at Max Born Institute demonstrate ultrafast emergence of all-optical switching by generating a nanometer-scale grating through interference of two pulses in the extreme ultraviolet spectral range. The researchers identify an intensity ratio as a fingerprint observable for AOS in diffraction experiments.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022

Media Alert: New issue of GEN Biotechnology

The June 2022 issue of GEN Biotechnology features groundbreaking research on adenine base editing, which could lead to more precise and safer genetic therapies. Additionally, the journal explores racial disparities in biotech leadership and advocates for improving diversity, equity, and inclusion.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGEN Biotechnology·TypeNews article·DateJun 15, 2022

UCF researchers develop technology for AI that mimics the human eye

The device can instantly recognize what it sees, like automatic descriptions of pictures taken by a camera or phone, and outperforms the eye in the number of wavelengths it can see. It's uniqueness comes from its ability to integrate three different operations into one, making it many times faster than current technology.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022

Astronomers find evidence for most powerful pulsar in distant galaxy

Scientists have found evidence for a young and extremely powerful neutron star, dubbed VT 1137-0337, in a dwarf galaxy 395 million light-years from Earth. The pulsar is thought to be as young as 14 years old and has the strongest magnetic field of any known object.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·TypeObservational study·DateJun 15, 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.

Poor sleep among African Americans associated with diminished cognitive function

A recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that poor sleep among African Americans is associated with lower cognitive function, including attention and executive function. The study suggests that improving sleep health may support prevention of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeObservational study·DateJun 15, 2022

Co-existing mangrove-coral habitats have a new global classification system

Researchers have created a new classification system for coexisting mangrove-coral habitats, identifying four distinct types: lagoons, creeks, fringe areas, and under the mangrove canopy. These habitats are diverse, with about 130 species of corals living in them, and are crucial for coral survival.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 15, 2022

A new nanomaterial for precision medicine and the green transition

Researchers at Politecnico di Milano developed a new nanomaterial with a superfluorinated gold cluster, exhibiting unique optical and catalytic properties. The findings have potential applications in precision medicine and the green transition, including diagnostic and therapeutic applications and efficient production of green hydrogen.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022
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.

Going platinum: A non-toxic catalyst for clean, re-usable water

USC Viterbi School of Engineering researchers introduce platinum as a non-toxic catalyst to transform toxic aldehydes into harmless carboxylic acids in wastewater. The breakthrough enables the production of clean and reusable water, addressing growing concerns about water shortages and regulatory requirements.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022

COVID-19 on the brain: Neurological symptoms persist in majority of long-haulers

A UC San Diego longitudinal study found that most COVID-19 long-haulers continue to suffer from neurological symptoms six months after infection, with memory impairment and decreased concentration being the most prevalent. Researchers identified a new subgroup with advanced symptoms, including tremor and difficulty balancing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateJun 15, 2022

New work upends understanding of how blood is formed

A groundbreaking study using cellular barcoding in mice reveals that blood cells originate from two independent sources: hematopoietic stem cells and embryonic multipotent progenitor cells. These findings have significant implications for understanding blood cancers, bone marrow transplant, and the aging immune system.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature·DateJun 15, 2022

Cost of brand-name epilepsy drugs increased by 277% over eight years

A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that brand-name epilepsy drugs experienced a significant price hike between 2010 and 2018, with costs rising by 277% compared to generic alternatives, which decreased in value by 42%. This shift in pricing has major implications for patients and healthcare systems.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 15, 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.

Institutional racism linked to worse asthma outcomes for Black Pittsburghers

A new analysis by University of Pittsburgh scientists demonstrates that institutional racism, rather than race-based biology, worsens asthma severity in Black people. The study links discriminatory lending practices from the 1930s to long-term environmental and health inequities, particularly in historically redlined neighborhoods.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 15, 2022

To find a planet, look for the signatures of planet formation

Astronomers use Gemini South Telescope to study how planet formation differs in low-mass star systems, discovering large rings composed of tiny dust grains around some stars. The team also finds a potential new exoplanet candidate orbiting a young star with a mass similar to Jupiter.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateJun 15, 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.

Genetic discovery could spell mosquitoes’ death knell

A UC Riverside genetic discovery found that mosquitoes lack the primary ecdysone transporter, allowing researchers to develop a mosquito-specific insecticide. This breakthrough could help control Zika, dengue, and other virus-carrying mosquitoes without harming beneficial insects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2022

Mapping the foundation for new life

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi) have gained new insights into how totipotency is programmed in germline cells. They found that DNA methyl groups are removed and DNA strands are unwound to create a 'clean slate' for embryo development, while also building insulation to prevent earl...

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 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.

Cholesterol-lowering gene changes may increase the risk of cataracts

Research found a link between genetic variants that mimic statin medication effects and increased risk of developing cataracts. Genetic analysis revealed carriers of rare mutations in the HMGCR gene have almost complete protein inhibition, similar to taking statins.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJun 15, 2022

Giving metal to microbes could reduce greenhouse gas

Researchers discovered that copper availability affects the release of nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. When copper is not available, microbes release more harmful gases instead of nitrogen, which makes up 78% of Earth's atmosphere. By adding metal to natural systems, it may mitigate nitrous oxide release.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 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.

Stanford researcher discusses climate change and air pollution impacts on children’s health

Children are at higher risk of health changes due to air pollution and climate change impacts, including increased asthma rates and vector-borne diseases. Caregivers can take steps to minimize exposure by making personal and family changes such as using electric cars, reducing meat consumption, and improving indoor air quality.

SourceStanford University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 15, 2022

New Super-Pulsed thulium fiber laser improves treatment results in pediatric patients with urinary stones

A new study published in The Journal of Urology found that a super-pulsed thulium fiber laser system improved stone-free rates and reduced residual fragments in pediatric patients with urinary stones compared to standard low-power holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet lasers. The study, which evaluated 125 procedures in 109 patients, showed ...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateJun 15, 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.

A large predator from the Pyrenees

A new species of large carnivore, Tartarocyon, has been discovered in the Pyrenees with a fossilized lower jaw weighing around 200 kg. The discovery provides insights into the development of European 'bear dogs' during the late Miocene period.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 15, 2022

Omicron hit rural America harder than cities

A recent study found that rural counties in the US experienced higher mortality rates during the Omicron wave of COVID-19, particularly among unvaccinated patients. Vaccination coverage was a significant factor in reducing patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2022

Stronger security for smart devices

MIT researchers demonstrate two security methods that protect analog-to-digital converters from powerful attacks, including power and electromagnetic side-channel attacks. The techniques are more efficient and less expensive than other security methods, minimizing power consumption and cost for portable smart devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 14, 2022

Researchers advance development of potential Epstein-Barr virus vaccines

Scientists at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have made encouraging progress in developing a vaccine against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is linked to various diseases. The new concept uses nanoparticles displaying dummy copies of gH/gL proteins, stimulating antibody production that can disrupt EBV's ability to infect healthy cells.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 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.

Installation of deep-water pipeline gives immediate boost to sea-floor animals

A newly installed deep-water pipeline has led to a significant increase in the abundance and diversity of marine life on the Angolan coast. The study found that the pipeline provided shelter and trapped organic matter, which animals feed on, resulting in an immediate boost to sea-floor animals.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2022

A dynamic duo of cells identified in lung blood vessels

Researchers identified immune endothelial cells promoting inflammation and developmental endothelial cells supporting cell development, regeneration, and proliferation. The study's findings may lead to targeted treatments for lung infections and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 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.

Automating renal access in kidney stone surgery using AI-enabled surgical robot

A novel AI-empowered robotic device successfully assisted in percutaneous nephrolithotomy—surgery for removing large kidney stones. The trial showed improved precision and reduced complications, with a significant reduction in needle punctures and puncture duration.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalThe Journal of Urology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 14, 2022

3D mammography technique benefits some women, not all

A new study published in JAMA found that digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) may reduce the chance of an advanced cancer diagnosis for women with the densest breasts and highest risk, but not all women. DBT had additional advantages for women with specific risk profiles, including a higher rate of detection of small invasive breast canc...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateJun 14, 2022

Opioid analgesic fentanyl may cause autism-like behavior in young mice

A study published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia found that fentanyl can induce changes similar to autism-like behaviors in young male and female mice. The research team discovered that fentanyl induces autism-like behaviors via activating the mu-opioid receptor in the anterior cingulate cortex.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2022

Nostril swab best way to test for COVID-19, study finds

A new study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that nasopharyngeal swabs were the most effective method for detecting COVID-19, with detection rates ranging from 92 to 100%. Saliva and anterior nares tests had lower detection rates, particularly in asymptomatic patients.

SourceCornell University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateJun 14, 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.

A weird star produced the fastest nova on record

Astronomers observed the fastest nova ever recorded, which drew attention to an unusual star. The research team studied its many baffling traits, including a pulsing light pattern, and may find answers to questions about our solar system's chemistry, star death, and universe evolution.

SourceArizona State University·JournalResearch Notes of the AAS·DateJun 14, 2022