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Science News for November 23, 2022


Discovery, rediscovery, and reassignment: Redefining fungal biodiversity

Scientists have made significant progress in understanding fungal diversity by identifying a new species, rediscovering an existing one, and reclassifying another. The study's findings have implications for fields like cell biology, genetic engineering, medicine, and environmental science.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAntonie van Leeuwenhoek·DateNov 23, 2022

Ancient Roman coins thought to be fakes now authenticated

A new analysis confirms that ancient Roman coins featuring the portrait of 'Sponsian' are genuine, suggesting he was a real leader who ruled Roman Dacia in the 260s CE. The study used advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques to analyze the coins and uncover evidence of their authenticity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 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.

Vitamin D fails to reduce statin-associated muscle pain

A new study from Northwestern University found that vitamin D supplements do not significantly reduce statin-associated muscle symptoms, contradicting previous non-randomized studies. The trial involved 2,083 participants and was the first placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial to examine this effect.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateNov 23, 2022

Primeval reaction pathways

A team of researchers has discovered that a reaction sequence from the reverse Krebs cycle can take place without enzymes under metal or meteorite catalysis. The study suggests that simple organic molecules existed on early Earth, even before life as we know it developed.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

Achieving a quantum fiber

ICFO researchers successfully demonstrate transport of two-photon quantum states through a phase-separated Anderson localization optical fiber, showing maintained spatial anti-correlation. The phase-separated fiber enables efficient transmission of quantum information via Corning's optical fiber.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalCommunications Physics·DateNov 23, 2022

A radical new approach in synthetic chemistry

Researchers use pulse radiolysis experiments to measure how unpaired electrons can drive chemical reactivity on a molecule's opposite side, enabling the creation of novel synthetic methodologies. The study demonstrates the potential for free radicals to influence reactivity beyond their site of origin.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Most people with long Covid face stigma and discrimination

A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that over 95% of people with Long Covid experience some form of stigma, with 76% experiencing it 'often' or 'always'. The study also found that those with a clinical diagnosis of Long Covid were more likely to report stigma than those without.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateNov 23, 2022

Genome studies uncover a new branch in fungal evolution

Researchers have uncovered a common ancestor among 600 disparate fungi, revealing a long-forgotten branch in the fungal family tree. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of these unusual organisms and their unique characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

Using vapes may set the stage for dental decay

A recent study by Tufts University School of Dental Medicine found a significant association between vaping and an increased risk of developing cavities. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 patients and found that 79% of vaping patients were categorized as having high-caries risk, compared to 60% of the control group.

SourceTufts University·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 2022

About 2% of pregnant Canadian individuals self-report using cannabis in pregnancy, with usage associated with higher risk of preterm births, low birthweight newborns, and congenital anomalies, in a multi-region study of 1.28m births

A Canadian cross-jurisdictional population-based cohort study found that about 2% of pregnant individuals self-report cannabis use, associated with increased risk of preterm births and low birthweight newborns. The study also linked cannabis use to higher rates of congenital anomalies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 23, 2022

Astronomers observe intra-group light – the elusive glow between distant galaxies

Researchers have detected intra-group light, a faint glow between distant galaxies, and studied its properties. The stars in this light are younger and less metal-rich than surrounding galaxies, suggesting they were stripped from their home galaxies by massive satellite galaxies.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 23, 2022

Embedding social considerations in large-scale ecological restoration planning leads to more practical and cost-effective implementation

A new approach integrates top-down and bottom-up approaches to address social considerations in large-scale ecological restoration planning. This method improves the practicality and efficiency of projects by considering socioeconomic drivers and stakeholder interests. The study found that spatial matching between planned and actual re...

SourceEngineering·JournalEngineering·DateNov 23, 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.

Overcoming challenges in the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics

Nucleic acid therapies aim to treat genetic disorders and diseases, but delivering therapeutics is a significant challenge. Researchers are investigating nanoparticle delivery systems to target specific cells and sub-cellular compartments for effective delivery.

SourceWiley·JournalWiley Interdisciplinary Reviews Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology·DateNov 23, 2022

Great Britain’s city centers ranked on “greenness”

A new study ranks Great Britain's city centers based on their green attributes, including tree cover, vegetation, and parks, revealing disparities in urban biodiversity and human health. The top five cities are located in southern England, while the bottom five relate to industrial areas in northern Britain.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 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.

Spin correlation between paired electrons demonstrated

Physicists at the University of Basel have experimentally demonstrated a negative correlation between the spins of paired electrons from a superconductor. The researchers used spin filters made of nanomagnets and quantum dots to achieve this, as reported in the scientific journal Nature.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Democracy after COVID-19: Pandemic fatigue fueled political mistrust and conspiracy beliefs across Europe and the United States

A new study from Aarhus University finds that pandemic fatigue is a direct cause of political discontent, with citizens experiencing increased fatigue as restrictions tighten and loosen. The researchers suggest that authorities can mitigate fatigue by adopting flexible policies and communicating openly with the public.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Oncotarget | Treasures from trash in cancer research

A new study explores the value of 'trash data' from cancer genome sequencing, identifying new strategies to uncover previously unexplored information. The researchers found that genomic and transcriptomic data contain relevant information that can help elucidate carcinogenesis and discover putative biomarkers with clinical applications.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 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.

Researchers identify brain markers of ADHD in children

A new study has identified brain markers of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children using MRI data. The researchers found changes in almost all regions of the brain, including abnormal connectivity, a thinning of the brain cortex, and significant white matter microstructural changes.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 23, 2022

Bloating common issue among Americans, study reports

A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that nearly 1 in 7 Americans experience bloating on a weekly basis. Women were more than twice as likely as men to report feeling bloated, and lifestyle changes, such as exercise and dietary modifications, can help manage symptoms.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateNov 23, 2022

Black and Hispanic men saw worse COVID-19 outcomes, study shows

A new study from the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute highlights nationwide health disparities in COVID-19 testing, hospitalization rates, and death. Black and Hispanic men were more likely to be hospitalized and die from COVID-19 compared to their white counterparts.

SourceMid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 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.

Major discovery about mammalian brains surprises researchers

University of Copenhagen researchers made a groundbreaking discovery about the mammalian brain, finding that a vital enzyme that enables brain signals is switching on and off at random intervals. This challenges the long-held assumption that these enzymes are active at all times to convey essential signals continuously.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2022

KAIST team develops surface-lighting MicroLED patch with significant melanogenesis inhibition effect

A KAIST research team has developed a surface-lighting microLED patch for UV-induced melanogenesis inhibition. The patch demonstrated significant suppression of melanin synthesis and minimized epidermal photo-toxicity, making it a promising treatment option for skin diseases such as spots and freckles.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 23, 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.

Aging | Krill oil protects dopaminergic neurons from age-related degeneration

Researchers discovered that krill oil protects dopaminergic neurons from age-related degeneration through temporal transcriptome rewiring and suppression of several hallmarks of aging. Krill oil increases neuronal resilience, promoting anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation, and abrogating multiple aging hallmarks.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Plants employ chemical engineering to manufacture bee-luring optical devices

Cambridge researchers discovered that plants regulate the chemistry of their petal surface to create microscopic three-dimensional patterns reflecting different wavelengths of light, visible to bees. These patterns act as diffraction gratings producing an iridescent optical effect, which is essential for attracting pollinators.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Ultra-high-res MRI reveals migraine brain changes

A new study uses ultra-high-resolution MRI to identify changes in the brain's fluid clearance system, which may contribute to migraine development. Enlarged perivascular spaces were found in patients with chronic and episodic migraine compared to healthy controls.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 23, 2022

Scientists discover new mechanism associated with severe COVID-19

Researchers found an imbalance in an important immune system signaling pathway associated with severe COVID-19. They detected dysregulation of the immune system mediated by ATP, leading to a pro-inflammatory state and potentially fatal systemic inflammation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateNov 23, 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.

Drug used for sleep disorders is linked to higher risk of overdose in teens, young adults

A new study by Rutgers researchers found that young people treated for sleep disorders with benzodiazepines like Xanax may be at a higher risk of overdose. The study examined over 90,000 newly prescribed benzodiazepine patients and found an increased risk of overdose compared to other prescription sleep medications.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 2022

Study finds picky eaters are put off by food depending on plateware color

A study by the University of Portsmouth found that picky eaters perceive food differently based on plateware color, with red and blue bowls making snacks seem saltier and less desirable. This knowledge could help encourage picky eaters to try new foods and expand their diet.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalFood Quality and Preference·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2022

CityU neuroscientists discover a new drug candidate for treating epilepsy

A research team led by City University of Hong Kong neuroscientist Dr. Geoffrey Lau Chun-yue identified a new drug candidate, D4, that selectively blocks connexin hemichannels to suppress neuroinflammation and curbs TLE seizures in a mouse model. The findings suggest a promising new treatment strategy for epilepsy.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

We are willing to pay larger energy bills in solidarity with Ukraine

Researchers at Copenhagen Business School have documented the concept of solidarity with a place like Ukraine, measuring its effect on human behavior. The study shows that individuals who feel compassion and sympathy with Ukraine are more inclined to make active efforts, such as attending demonstrations or donating money.

SourceCopenhagen Business School·JournalAnnals of Tourism Research·TypeSurvey·DateNov 23, 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.

Physicist strikes gold, solving 50-year lightning mystery

A University of South Australia physicist has solved the long-standing mystery of lightning's zig-zag pattern and dark electric column. The breakthrough explains how singlet-delta metastable oxygen molecules create these steps.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 2022

Protein spheres protect the genome of cancer cells

Researchers discovered MYC protein spheres protect sensitive DNA sites from enzyme collisions, leading to cancer cell death. The discovery opens doors for developing specifically effective drugs to prevent sphere formation.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Low-cost sensor records the level of rivers

Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed a cost-effective method to measure river levels around the clock using a GNSS antenna and Raspberry Pi microcomputer. The device is capable of transmitting data continuously via mobile communication, making it suitable for area-wide flood warning systems.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalWater Resources Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Egyptian lagoon vital to Cyprus turtles

A study by the University of Exeter found that 74% of green turtles foraging in Cyprus feed at Lake Bardawil, an Egyptian lagoon. The number of turtle nests has increased almost tripled since the early 1990s, but their dependence on this single location leaves them vulnerable to changes in conditions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 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.

Water wars: causes and possible solutions

Researchers from Politecnico di Milano investigated water's role in conflicts, focusing on socio-hydrological conditions and unequal resource use. The study provides a new methodological approach to understanding natural resource conflicts, with potential applications for creating more accurate representations of socio-ecological systems.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 2022

What can we learn from the climate challenges of the ostrich?

Researchers investigate whether genes increasing heat tolerance also reduce cold tolerance in animals. Ostriches, with their extreme temperature variations in the wild, are an ideal model for studying this phenomenon. The study aims to understand how life stages influence adaptation to temperature fluctuations.

SourceAarhus University·DateNov 23, 2022

Gene that guides earliest social behaviors could be key to understanding autism

A new animal study points to a gene that controls early social behaviors and may be linked to autism. Exposure to certain drugs during embryonic development can alter this gene, leading to social behavior changes similar to those found in individuals with autism. Researchers were able to reverse some effects using an experimental drug.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

Gully erosion prediction tools can lead to better land management

Researchers developed a modeling framework using remote sensing data to predict gully erosion susceptibility. They found that spatiotemporal changes in land cover and precipitation were crucial in predicting gully formation in agricultural areas, with 7.4% of the study area having an elevated risk of developing gullies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Hydrology Regional Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 2022

Witchcraft beliefs are widespread, highly variable around the world

A global dataset reveals widespread witchcraft beliefs varying substantially between countries and world regions. Higher education and economic security are associated with lower belief in witchcraft. Weak institutions, low social trust, and conformist culture also correlate with higher witchcraft prevalence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateNov 23, 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.

Human evolution wasn’t just the sheet music, but how it was played

A team of Duke researchers identified a group of human DNA sequences regulating genes that seem to have evolved rapidly after our family line split from that of the chimpanzees. These changes were fine-tuned over time and appear in brain development, digestion and immunity.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Ancient Roman coins reveal long-lost emperor

A gold coin long dismissed as a forgery appears to be authentic and depicts Emperor Sponsian, who ruled Roman Dacia during civil wars. The study used scientific analysis to confirm the coin's authenticity, shedding light on Sponsian's history.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 23, 2022

A nanoscale view of bubble formation

A German-Chinese research team has created a more precise understanding of the behavior of tiny droplets and vapor bubbles using computer simulation. The findings have the potential to improve cooling systems for microprocessors and enhance the efficiency of green hydrogen production, as well as aid in the development of new materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 23, 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.

Coenzyme switch: Researchers recreate the way nature change coenzyme binding on Rossmann enzymes

Scientists at OIST successfully engineered a protein to bind a methylating agent instead of its natural coenzyme. The study uses insertions and deletions to modify the protein's structure, offering insights into coenzyme-protein interactions and potential applications in artificial enzyme design.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Discovery could lead to new drugs to block protein that fuels bowel cancer

Scientists have uncovered the inner workings of tankyrase, a protein that fuels bowel cancer growth, using cutting-edge electron microscopy. This discovery paves the way for more precise and less toxic cancer drugs, which could also benefit other diseases like diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2022

New Omicron subvariant BQ.1.1 resistant to all therapeutic antibodies

A recent study found that the Omicron sub-lineage BQ.1.1 is resistant to all approved antibody therapies, posing a risk to high-risk patients. The researchers emphasize the importance of developing new antibody therapies specifically targeted at currently circulating and future viral variants.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

Do skin moisturizers help prevent eczema in infants?

Early application of skin moisturizers is an effective strategy for preventing atopic dermatitis (AD) in high-risk infants. A systematic review and network meta-analysis found that three types of emollients, including cream, emulsion, and mixed types, are comparable in preventing AD; however, emollient emulsion may be the optimal option.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology·DateNov 23, 2022

A far-sighted approach to machine learning

Researchers developed a new machine-learning framework that enables cooperative or competitive AI agents to consider the future behaviors of all agents, not just their teammates or competitors. This framework, FURTHER, uses two modules: an inference module and a reinforcement learning module, to enable agents to adapt their behaviors a...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 23, 2022

Immune cells in ALS patients can predict the course of the disease

Researchers have discovered a way to predict the course of ALS by measuring immune cells in cerebrospinal fluid. A high proportion of effector T cells is associated with low survival rates, while activated regulatory T cells indicate a protective role against rapid disease progression.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2022

Biomarker predicts resistance to immunotherapies in melanoma

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center identified a protein complex called NLRP3 inflammasome that drives hyper-progression of melanoma cells treated with checkpoint inhibitors. A blood-based biomarker and tumor tissue-based biomarker can predict disease resistance and hyper-progression.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 23, 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.

What was the true human cost of the pandemic in Russia?

A new study estimates that the pandemic has cost over 1 million Russian lives, with regional differences in mortality rates reported. The research used a novel methodology to calculate excess mortality, including deaths from lockdowns and postponed operations.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 23, 2022

How to put an end to gender biases in internet algorithms

Researchers found that algorithms classify white men better, reproduce false beliefs about physical attributes, and make stereotypical associations between men and sciences, women and arts. Under-representation of women in AI design and biased datasets contribute to the problem.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalAlgorithms·DateNov 23, 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.

CAR T cell therapy reaches beyond cancer

Researchers report highly promising early results for CAR T therapy in lupus patients, offering a new hope for treatment of autoimmune diseases. The therapy has shown to remove existing B cells and restore natural B cell function, paving the way for potential new applications.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateNov 23, 2022