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Science News Archive March 2022 - Page 38


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A speed limit could be a breakthrough for stem cell therapy

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered that slowing down DNA replication speed improves reprogramming efficiency of cells into totipotent cells. This breakthrough could be a major advancement for stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine approaches.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 7, 2022

Mutant mice shed no tears

A study led by Kyoto University researchers found that modulating hormone levels can improve meibomian gland disorder, a common cause of dry eyes. Topical administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) boosted NAD levels and rebooted 3-HSD activity in mutant mice, alleviating dryness.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2022

Providing legal advocacy reduces hospital admissions by 38%

A new study from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that medical-legal partnerships, which connect pediatric patients with advocates from Legal Aid Society, significantly reduce hospital admissions for children. The program, launched in 2008, has resulted in a 38% reduction in hospitalizations among referred cases.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 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.

Disadvantaged older adults face greater risk of function, cognition decline after ICU admission

A retrospective analysis found that socioeconomically disadvantaged older adults are at a higher risk of decline in function and cognition after an intensive care unit hospitalization. The study highlights the need to prioritize low-income seniors in rehabilitation and recovery efforts after critical illness.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2022

Novel enzyme catalyzing the formation of glycosidic bonds in complex sugar moieties characterized

Researchers have identified a novel enzyme that catalyzes the formation of glycosidic bonds in complex sugar moieties. The discovery provides fresh insights into carbohydrate metabolism and offers a breakthrough for the synthesis of sugar chains, which play key roles in various biological processes.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2022

Cooler waters created super-sized Megalodon, latest study shows

A recent study reveals that Megalodon's body size was influenced by water temperature, with individuals growing larger in cooler waters. The research suggests that Bergmann's rule may have played a role in the shark's gigantism.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalHistorical Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 6, 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.

NUS research shows CO2 could be stored below ocean floor

Researchers from NUS's Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering have demonstrated the stability of CO2 hydrates in oceanic sediments, a potential technology for storing large volumes of carbon emissions. The team found that CO2 hydrates can remain stable for up to 30 days under pressurized conditions.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2022

Breaking down how “single-atom” catalysts help remove organic pollutants

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University developed a simple synthesis method for iron-based single-atom catalysts that activate peroxymonosulfate to break down difficult-to-degrade pollutants. The team discovered two distinct chemical pathways involving 'high-spin' state iron sites, which interact with peroxymonosulfate to create r...

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 5, 2022

Convenient wireless charging for home use

Researchers at Aalto University developed a simple, low-cost wireless charging system that provides efficient charging regardless of device position or orientation. The new design uses a cylindrical power coil to create a donut-shaped charging field, increasing convenience and reliability for consumer devices.

SourceAalto University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·DateMar 4, 2022

Facial transplant techniques may extend to other types of severe facial injuries

Researchers successfully used composite tissue transfer techniques from face transplant surgery for 'autotransplantation' of avulsed facial tissues. The technique involves re reconnecting the patient's own blood vessels to restore circulation, allowing for successful replantation without postoperative complications.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Craniofacial Surgery·DateMar 4, 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.

AI-designed protein awakens silenced genes, one by one

Researchers at the University of Washington developed an AI-designed protein that can awaken individual dormant genes by disabling chemical 'off switches'. This approach allows for safe upregulation of specific genes to affect cell activity without permanently changing the genome.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2022

Like bacteria firing spearguns

Researchers discovered two novel contractile injection systems (CISs) in cyanobacteria and a marine bacterium, revealing unique features and anchoring mechanisms. These systems provide insights into the evolutionary differences between various injection system classes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2022

During droughts, thirstier mountain forests could mean less water downstream

Higher elevation mountain forests are using more water on average during droughts, reducing water availability downstream for cities and wildlife. Researchers found that these forests tend to be located above 3,280 feet and have increased water use due to rising temperatures and changes in tree species composition.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalLandscape Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 4, 2022

Covert and overt political signaling online

A new study reveals that individuals use covert online signals to convey their political identity, especially in mixed groups. This allows them to communicate without risking negative reactions from those who disagree. The research found that people prefer overt signals in homogeneous groups.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 4, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

An introgression strategy to expand genetic variation

Scientists create novel germplasm by introgressing B. rapa genome into B. juncea and demonstrate increased genetic diversity and phenotypic variation among the introgression lines. This strategy provides a new method to expand genetic variation in Brassica species.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateMar 4, 2022

More alcohol, less brain: Penn-led study finds an association that begins with an average of just one drink a day

A new study using a dataset of over 36,000 adults found that light-to-moderate alcohol consumption was associated with reductions in overall brain volume. The association grew stronger with increasing levels of alcohol consumption, comparable to aging two and three years, respectively.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 2022

Study suggests how post-COVID syndrome, MIS-C, gets started in children

A new study by Columbia University researchers has identified key differences in immune cells and responses between MIS-C patients and other febrile infection patients. These findings may lead to faster diagnosis and better treatment of MIS-C.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2022

Making diversity, equity, inclusion integral part of physics education

Scientists from Carleton College and the University of Colorado Boulder present discussions and activities on DEI as a fundamental part of physics training. Instructors can design their own lessons using individual reflection activities or lead class discussions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Physics Teacher·DateMar 4, 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.

Producing ethylene from food waste without greenhouse gas emissions

The Korea Institute of Science and Technology has developed a process technology that removes toxic hydrogen sulfide during the production of ethylene from biogas. This allows for the direct production of ethylene from biogas with reduced energy consumption, enabling domestic chemical companies to achieve carbon neutrality.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·DateMar 4, 2022

A decade of deep-reef exploration in the Greater Caribbean

Researchers used submersibles to explore deep reefs, increasing the recorded number of deep-reef fishes by 9-fold. The study found that reef-fish faunas extend below the mesophotic zone and revealed a previously unknown reef ocean zone, the rariphotic.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMar 4, 2022

UTSA researchers develop new treatment to combat obesity and heart disease

A team of UTSA researchers has developed an innovative inhibitor that blocks the effects of cytochrome P450 8B1, a key enzyme linked to cholesterol absorption and obesity. The treatment shows promise in reducing glucose levels without affecting body weight, offering potential relief from obesity-associated metabolic disorders.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalSteroids·DateMar 4, 2022

Tomatoes of equal quality with less irrigation water

Researchers at the University of Seville conducted a study on deficit irrigation for Sunchocola tomatoes, finding no significant changes in commercial quality but increased carotenoids and phenolic compounds. The results have significant nutritional importance and potential for global irrigation water savings.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalJournal of Food Composition and Analysis·DateMar 4, 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.

Predicting solar cell performance from terahertz and microwave spectroscopy

Researchers improve solar cell performance predictions by analyzing terahertz and microwave spectroscopy data, enabling more accurate assessments of material quality. This advancement can quickly test new semiconducting materials for their potential suitability.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2022

Changing the standard of care for stage III melanoma surgery

Researchers found that patients with stage III melanoma who received immunotherapy alone had better rates of distant metastasis-free survival compared to those who underwent completion lymph node dissection. The study suggests that de-escalation of unnecessary therapies, such as CLND, may improve patient outcomes and reduce complications.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·DateMar 4, 2022

Atom by atom: building precise smaller nanoparticles with templates

Scientists have created a supramolecular template using dendron-assembled structures to synthesize quasi-sub-nanoparticles with controlled atomicity. This approach offers a cost-effective and versatile method for producing a variety of nanostructures.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 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.

Deforestation and climate change threaten Brazil’s new agricultural frontier

Researchers warn that deforestation and climate change are exacerbating drought conditions in Brazil's agricultural frontier, threatening soybean yields. The study analyzed changes in hydrology and weather patterns over four decades, highlighting a rise in temperatures, dry days, and decreased precipitation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 4, 2022

Microneedle approach to address peanut allergy shows promise in mice

Researchers developed a microneedle treatment that increased desensitization rates to peanut allergy in mice, outperforming existing immunotherapy methods. The novel approach achieved significant results using lower doses of allergen, offering new hope for millions suffering from peanut allergy.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalImmunotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 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 peptide hydrogel for efficient production of cell spheroids

Researchers have developed a peptide hydrogel, SupraGel, that efficiently produces cell spheroids with maintained stemness. The hydrogel's biocompatibility and scalability make it an ideal platform for studying cellular complexities and screening drugs.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Materials·DateMar 4, 2022

Could a community-based approach to genetic testing help African Americans reduce risks of chronic kidney disease?

Researchers found that a community-based approach to reporting APOL1 genetic test results resulted in lower blood pressure readings among hypertensive patients. This trial suggests that involving communities in genetic testing could be beneficial for reducing the risks of chronic kidney disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 4, 2022

Artificial intelligence predicts algae potential as alternative energy source

Researchers use artificial intelligence to predict algae's potential as a reliable, economic source for biofuel, overcoming challenges of low yield and high harvesting cost. The project aims to transform the bioeconomy by reducing petroleum dependency and alleviating climate change.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2022

Affordability and access challenges among subscribers to non-group insurance plans

A new study by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute examines cost-related experiences of families with non-group health insurance plans. Despite lower out-of-pocket spending among subsidy-eligible enrollees, negative cost-related experiences persist, highlighting the need for expanded subsidies to address affordability challenges.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMar 4, 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.

Improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles

Researchers at Universitat Politècnica de València are working on improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. They aim to reduce thermal instability and prevent fires, with potential benefits for the automotive sector and beyond.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 4, 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.

Combination treatment is effective for treating smokers who drink heavily

A new study published in JAMA Network Open finds that a combination treatment of nicotine replacement therapy and varenicline is more effective for smoking cessation in heavy drinkers, resulting in 44.3% abstinence rate. Participants also showed significant reductions in drinking rates, with 25% decrease in weekly drinking days.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 4, 2022

DNA barcoding identifies endangered shark species secretly added to pet food

A recent study published in Frontiers in Marine Science found that 31% of pet food products from Singapore contained shark DNA, highlighting the prevalence of ingredient mislabeling. The researchers suggest implementing global standards for pet food labels to avoid overexploitation of endangered sharks.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMar 4, 2022

Effectiveness of letters to increase health insurance enrollment

A randomized clinical trial found that low-cost letters encouraging individuals to complete the enrollment process resulted in a significant increase in health insurance enrollment. The study suggests that such letters could be an effective tool for promoting health insurance coverage, particularly among underserved populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMar 4, 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 articles for Geosphere posted online in February

Researchers explored geological reconstructions using soil and air temperatures, petrogenesis of silicic magmas, and spatial skills for sequence stratigraphic interpretation. New data provide insights into homogeneous melt production and evolution of voluminous SMO magmas.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateMar 4, 2022

Bendy robotic arm twisted into shape with help of augmented reality

Researchers at Imperial College London developed a bendy robotic arm that can twist and turn in all directions, allowing for customizable shapes. The team created an augmented reality system to enhance user-friendliness, enabling users to easily configure the robot using motion tracking cameras and smartglasses.

SourceImperial College London·JournalIEEE Robotics & Automation Magazine·DateMar 4, 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.

Cell division in microalgae: mitosis revealed in detail for the first time

Researchers at Bielefeld University have identified five key characteristics of mitosis in the microalga Volvox carteri, including a porous nuclear envelope and crucial centrosome function. They used confocal laser scanning microscopy to capture high-resolution images of live cell division and gain insights into the complex process.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalThe Plant Cell·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 4, 2022

A new study relates liquid fructose intake to fatty liver disease

A new study reveals that liquid fructose intake, even in high-fat diets, can accelerate liver fat accumulation and hypertriglyceridemia. The study found that fructose induces an increase in the synthesis of fatty acids in the liver and inhibits lipid oxidation, leading to the emergence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 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.

Meddling with metals: Escaping the tyranny of copper

Researchers at UC San Diego have designed a flexible protein system that selectively binds to non-copper metals, overcoming universal restrictions on metal selectivity. This breakthrough paves the way for the design of novel functional proteins and metal sequestration agents with potential applications in environmental remediation and ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2022

Longitudinal study confirms religious styles change in adulthood

A longitudinal study confirmed that adults' religious styles change over a person's lifetime, with most participants moving to a higher style. Factors such as openness to experience and low agreement with their own religion supported this progression, while regression was also observed in a significant number of cases.

SourceBielefeld University·DateMar 4, 2022