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Science News Archive November 2022 - Page 13


Page 13 of 39

Discovery may advance treatment of cardiovascular disease

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a protocol to reprogram human heart cells into specialized cells that conduct electricity, enabling rhythmic heartbeat and repair diseased hearts. The discovery could lead to improved cardiac function and new pharmacological therapies for heart diseases.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournaliScience·DateNov 21, 2022

A closer look at the dynamics of the p-Laplacian Allen–Cahn equation

A team of researchers from Korea investigated the dynamics of the p-Laplacian AC equation, finding that solutions maintain three criteria: phase separation, boundedness, and energy decay properties. They also identified an advantage of p-AC equation over classical Laplacian in adjusting interface sharpness.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalApplied Mathematics and Computation·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

BU study: Neuroimmune proteins may serve as biomarkers for diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers found that specific immune-related proteins, such as CCL21, FLT3L, and IL-13, can differentiate between neurodegenerative diseases like CTE, AD, PSP, CBD, and AGD. The study's results highlight the importance of the immune system in neurodegenerative diseases and provide novel potential biomarkers for diagnosis.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 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.

Charged porphyrins: The key to investigating the properties of stacked ion pairs

Charged porphyrins enable researchers to study π-electronic ion pairs and their interactions, leading to the creation of electronic materials with unique properties. The study reveals fascinating new properties of stacked ion pairs and their potential applications in fields like nanomagnetism and ferroelectrics.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

Monitoring “frothy” magma gases could help evade disaster

A team at the University of Tokyo has discovered that analyzing the ratio of argon-40 to helium-3 in magma gases can indicate the risk of different types of eruption. By monitoring these gas ratios, scientists hope to develop a portable equipment for real-time, on-site measurements, enabling early warning systems and potentially saving...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2022

Short gamma-ray bursts traced farther into distant universe

Researchers create most extensive inventory to date of SGRB host galaxies, finding 85% come from young, actively star-forming galaxies. The study also reveals more SGRBs occurred earlier in the universe's history and were spotted far outside their host galaxies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 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.

Adaptive language-learning software helps stroke survivors regain critical communication skills

A new Baycrest study found that using adaptive language-learning software is extremely beneficial in helping stroke survivors regain their language skills. The researchers used an online program to practice identifying images, and participants showed significant improvement after just two weeks.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalNeuropsychological Rehabilitation·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

D-Amino acids: Signaling severity in viral infection

Researchers found reduced levels of D-amino acids in patients with severe COVID-19 and IAV infection, suggesting they could be used as biomarkers. Supplementation with D-alanine improved survival rates and clinical outcomes in mouse models of both infections.

SourceOsaka University·JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2022

Keep your cats inside for the sake of their health and the surrounding environment

A University of Maryland study found that domestic cats in Washington D.C. have a high probability of overlapping with native wildlife, including raccoons and opossums, increasing the risk of disease transmission and harming native populations. Keeping cats indoors can significantly reduce these risks.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2022

Genetic ‘hitchhikers’ can be directed using CRISPR

Researchers develop CRISPR-Cas systems associated with transposons to rewrite large chunks of DNA in organisms like E. coli. This expands the CRISPR toolbox for flexible genome editing and has significant implications for therapeutics, biotechnology, and agriculture.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

MRI reveals significant brain abnormalities post-COVID

Researchers used MRI to analyze brain changes in patients up to six months after COVID-19 recovery. Significant abnormalities were found in the frontal lobe and brain stem, including differences in white matter and regions linked to fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, depression, headaches, and cognitive problems.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 21, 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.

Satellites cast critical eye on coastal dead zones

Scientists at Michigan State University have discovered a way to use satellite views to understand and predict the formation of dead zones in coastal areas. The study found that satellites can provide near-real-time information on where, when, and how long hypoxic zones persist, enabling better management of these critical problems.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateNov 21, 2022

Measuring organ development

Researchers from MPI-CBG and IMP define metrics for organ development, providing a framework to transform the field of organoids into an engineering discipline. They discover that tissue connectivity emerges from two processes: fusion of separate epithelia or self-fusion of a single epithelium.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG)·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

NSAIDs may worsen arthritis inflammation

A new study found that taking NSAIDs for osteoarthritis pain and inflammation may worsen joint inflammation and cartilage quality over time. Researchers used MRI-based structural biomarkers to analyze the association between NSAID use and synovitis in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 21, 2022

Generating electricity from tacky tape

A team of researchers created a simple and inexpensive triboelectric nanogenerator using store-bought double-sided tape, plastic film, and aluminum metal. The device was able to produce higher power densities than previous versions, making it suitable for powering everyday devices such as LEDs and laser diodes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateNov 21, 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.

Recreating the adrenal gland in a petri dish

A team from the University of Pennsylvania led by Kotaro Sasaki coaxed stem cells to take on the characteristics and functions of a human adrenal gland. The researchers developed an organoid culture system to direct iPSCs to transition into adrenocortical progenitor-like cells, resulting in cells producing steroid hormones.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

New quantum tool developed in groundbreaking experimental achievement

Scientists at the University of Waterloo have developed a device that generates twisted neutrons with well-defined orbital angular momentum, enabling researchers to study next-generation quantum materials. The discovery provides an additional quantized degree of freedom for characterizing complicated materials.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 21, 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.

Intelligent drones to make wind turbines far more efficient

A new research project at Aarhus University aims to develop intelligent drones that can detect ice on turbine blades, optimizing energy production and expanding market opportunities. The project has the potential to reduce energy losses by up to 80% and enable wind farms to operate in colder climates.

SourceAarhus University·DateNov 21, 2022

IPK researchers identify last remaining steps in the biosynthesis of tropane alkaloids from Coca

Researchers elucidated the coca-derived tropane pathway, identifying a specific enzyme responsible for the carbomethoxy group, a key contributor to cocaine's euphoric properties. The study also reveals that tropane biosynthesis has independently evolved at least twice in flowering plants.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 21, 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.

Corals saving corals

A study found that mixing genetic makeup of corals increases resistance to disease, allowing some vulnerable corals to thrive. This 'rescue' effect helps reduce disease transmission among corals.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2022

Transgender youth, teens more likely to have sleep disorders

A Michigan Medicine-led study reveals that transgender youth are 5.4 times more likely to experience insomnia and three times more likely to suffer from sleep apnea compared to cisgender youth. Gender-affirming therapies may offer a protective effect against worsening sleep health, according to the researchers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2022

Decoding six basic emotions from brain functional connectivity patterns

This study analyzed neural mechanisms of emotional information represented by brain network patterns using a data-driven approach. The results showed that whole-brain FC patterns successfully classified the six basic emotions from neutral expressions and identified important regions contributing to face and emotion processing.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateNov 21, 2022

Study: Automation drives income inequality

A new study finds that automation has contributed significantly to the growth in income inequality in the US, with 50-70% of the increase attributed to technological changes. The study analyzed data from 49 industries and 500 demographic subgroups, finding that automation has disproportionately affected low-skill service workers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEconometrica·DateNov 21, 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.

CPR mannikins used in instructive social media posts lack diversity, influencing patient outcomes and disparities in training and care

A study found that CPR mannikins depicted in public social media accounts are predominantly white, lean men, lacking representation of diverse groups. The lack of diversity in these models may influence disparities in training and care for patients experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2022

“SharkGuard” reduces bycatch of endangered sharks, sea trials show

A new study reports that SharkGuard, a shark deterrent device, significantly reduces the number of blue sharks and pelagic stingrays caught in tuna fisheries. The technology emits a localized electric field around a baited hook, discouraging sharks from biting without getting hooked on other fish.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 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.

Study shows promising safety, patient outcomes data for MRI-guided adaptive radiation therapy to treat pancreatic cancer

A recent study found that MRI-guided adaptive radiation therapy, also known as SMART, has shown promising safety and patient outcomes data for treating locally advanced and borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. The study, led by Henry Ford Health, reported no incidence of acute grade 3 or higher gastrointestinal toxicity, with preli...

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateNov 21, 2022

Shining a new light on the importance of a critical photosynthesis pathway in plants

Scientists have discovered that the ferredoxin/thioredoxin pathway is essential for light-dependent activation reactions in chloroplasts, crucial for normal plant growth and efficient photosynthesis. The study used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to create a mutated plant specimen with a defective Fd/Trx pathway.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

1,700-year-old spider monkey remains discovered in Teotihuacán, Mexico

Researchers found the skeletal remains of a 5-8 year old spider monkey in Teotihuacán, Mexico, which provides the earliest evidence of primate captivity and translocation. The discovery also reveals gift diplomacy between Teotihuacán and Mayan elite, challenging previous beliefs about Maya presence in the region.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 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.

Nanotechnology may better identify, treat ectopic pregnancy

Researchers developed a nanoparticle-based approach that uses photoacoustic imaging and infrared light to detect and potentially treat ectopic pregnancies. The technology shows promise in mice studies and may offer a non-invasive and effective way to improve diagnosis and treatment of the condition.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 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 quantum of an angle

Researchers at TU Wien have directly measured the fine structure constant using a thin film that rotates light polarisation, revealing an astonishing quantum jump related to this fundamental constant. This measurement provides new insights into the strength of electromagnetic interactions.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

UCF researchers are developing a health monitoring tool for firefighters

UCF researchers are developing a wearable, wireless health monitor to track physiological response to heat stress in firefighters. The device aims to identify correlations between heat stress and skin thermal activity for the first time, providing insight into the link between heat stress and serious medical issues.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateNov 21, 2022

Exercise can reduce severity of breast cancer treatment side effects

A study by Edith Cowan University found that home-based exercise programs can accelerate recovery from cancer-related fatigue and improve health-related quality of life during radiotherapy. The research included 89 women who completed a 12-week program, with no adverse effects reported.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalBreast Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 20, 2022

Researchers study Eurasia’s winter weather under a “triple-dip” La Niña

A team of researchers studied the upcoming 2022-2023 winter weather in Eurasia, predicting potential below-normal temperatures and severe snowfalls. The study used four climate models to forecast surface air temperature and precipitation anomalies, with some results suggesting a possibility of cold snaps despite warmer overall conditions.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateNov 20, 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.

Believe it or ‘nut’, almonds can help you cut calories

A new study from the University of South Australia found that eating 30-50 grams of almonds can help people cut back on kilojoules consumed each day. This leads to a reduced energy intake by 300 kilojoules, mostly coming from junk food.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2022

Tumor matrix profiling gives clues to progression of some lung cancers

Researchers identified molecular profiles of tumor matrices around squamous cell lung cancers, finding that altered matrices promote tumour growth and chemotherapy resistance. The study sheds light on why some patients progress well and others don't, and how personalized treatment can be developed.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 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.

Solid salamander: Prehistoric amphibian was as heavy as a pygmy hippo

A team of scientists has estimated the weight of a prehistoric salamander using five living animal analogues and 19 body mass estimation techniques. The study found that the large-bodied Eryops was around 160 kilograms, while the Paracyclotosaurus was roughly 260 kilograms.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPalaeontology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2022

Scientists optimize methods to study brains at rest in a key model organism

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University identified optimal sedatives and anesthetics for studying marmoset brains at rest, preserving the resting state network. The study suggests a more realistic solution for accurate data, with Midazolam or Dexmedetomidine combined with light restraint being the most effective option.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateNov 19, 2022

How “2D” materials expand

Scientists have developed a method to accurately measure the thermal expansion coefficient of 2D materials when heated, which could help engineers design next-generation electronics. The approach uses laser light to track vibrations of atoms in the material, allowing for precise measurements and confirming theoretical calculations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 18, 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.