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Science News for October 7, 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.

Awake patients can have kidney stones moved, blasted

Researchers have developed a new technique that combines ultrasound technologies to move, reposition, or break up kidney stones while the patient is awake and pain-free. In a feasibility study, 29 patients were treated with the new method, resulting in stone passage in 19 cases, with an average time of four days.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Urology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Previously deployed military personnel show retained dust in lungs

Researchers found that previously deployed military personnel had more retained dust in their lungs compared to civilian controls, with smaller particle sizes. The study suggests that even low sandstorm exposure led to increased dust accumulation, highlighting the need for mitigation strategies.

SourceGeological Society of America·DateOct 7, 2022

New field of research: Crystal traces in fossil leaves

The study reveals that calcium oxalate crystals are responsible for the formation of microscopic cavities in fossilized leaves. The researchers found clear parallels in closely related species, suggesting a biological function for the crystals.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 7, 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.

Mapping human brain development

Scientists have developed a new method to study human brain development by growing millimetre-sized three-dimensional tissues called organoids from pluripotent stem cells. The researchers characterized the cells in molecular-genetic terms, creating a kind of map showing the molecular fingerprint of each cell within the organoid.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

An emergency in U.S. emergency care: Two studies show rising strain

Two studies reveal rising emergency department wait times and patient abandonment due to overcrowding, with 5% of hospitals experiencing over 10% patient abandonment and median boarding times reaching 3.4 hours nationally.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 7, 2022

Frailty Index accurately predicts postoperative complications after prostate surgery

The Five-item Frailty Index (5i-FI) accurately predicts postoperative complications after prostate surgery, particularly in men with high frailty scores. A study published in Urology found that a 5i-FI score greater than two is associated with increased risk of complications, hospital stays, and readmission.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalUrology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 7, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Can cats and coyote co-exist?

A recent study found that cats and coyotes share green spaces in Los Angeles suburb Culver City, leading to increased cat mortality. Cats displayed more nocturnal behavior than typical urban cats, explaining high rates of cat deaths. The study recommends restricting outdoor cat access to mitigate human-wildlife conflict

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateOct 7, 2022

Scientists at IRB Barcelona and the PCCB develop a study model for Ewing sarcoma in the Drosophila fly

Scientists at IRB Barcelona and the PCCB have created a genetically tractable model of Ewing sarcoma using Drosophila flies expressing a mutant version of the human oncogene EWS-FLI. This model allows for the identification of critical proteins required for EWS-FLI's oncogenic function and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Overcoming the limitations of conventional medical optical imaging using the world's first “ultrasound-induced tissue transparency” technology!

A joint research team developed the world's first 'ultrasound-induced tissue transparency' technology, enabling deeper observation of biological tissues. The technology increased the maximum imaging depth of optical imaging modalities like confocal fluorescence microscopy by six times.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 7, 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.

Scientists peel back ancient layers of banana DNA to reveal ‘mystery ancestors’

A study reveals that domesticated banana varieties contain traces of three unknown wild ancestors, which were likely hybrids between subspecies and may hold useful traits such as parthenocarpy. The researchers believe these 'mystery ancestors' might still be alive in the wild, particularly in regions including the Gulf of Thailand, Bor...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 7, 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.

Researchers recommend future pandemic responses account for ethnicity, social factors

Researchers recommend prioritizing COVID-19 vaccine access to older people of color and those with high-contact jobs, followed by working-age non-Hispanic whites and Asians. The study found that 'ethnic homophily' matters in vaccination strategies, leading to more deaths prevention.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 7, 2022

Assessing disaster preparedness disparities in pediatric households

Research at the 2022 American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference & Exhibition found disparities in pediatric household preparedness for wildfires, particularly among less educated caregivers. Households with children having breathing issues were more likely to be prepared for wildfires.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateOct 7, 2022

The secret of swing – addressed in the lab

Researchers found that downbeat delays, rather than minute timing deviations, are key components of the swing feel in jazz. Downbeat delays of about 30 milliseconds enhanced the swing feel, while uniformly delaying offbeats did not.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Firearm-related injuries may have increased during COVID-19 pandemic

A study found pediatric firearm-related injuries at a hospital ED increased during the first two years of the shutdown, with significant increases in African American and mentally ill patients. The total number of firearm-related injury cases rose from 88 in 2019 to 118 in 2020 and remained elevated in 2021.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateOct 7, 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.

Borderline personality disorder-related stigma undermines patient care and efforts to reduce suicide

A new review finds that people with borderline personality disorder face discrimination, inadequate treatment, and stigmatizing experiences in healthcare services. The authors call for improved training, education, and resources to address these issues and provide better support to patients and their families.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health Systems·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 7, 2022

Sustainable concrete cuts emissions and uses waste for better buildings

Researchers developed sustainable concrete by replacing synthetic reinforcement with natural fibres and industrial by-products, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and landfill waste. The new material exhibits superior strength and lower water absorption compared to traditional concrete.

SourceFlinders University·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Similarities in movie review content by critics and general users impact movie sales, study shows

A new study from the University of Notre Dame proposes a 'topic consistency' measure to capture overlap between critic and user review content. The study finds that similar aspects discussed by both groups increase memorability and likelihood of seeing a movie, with a 4.6% increase in box office revenue for movies with moderate ratings.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 7, 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.

Are conferences worth the time and money?

A new Northwestern University study finds that scientists who interact with others during assigned sessions at conferences are more likely to form productive collaborations. Virtual conferences also show promise for encouraging interactions and sparking collaborations.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 7, 2022

Research examines which children were most severely sickened by COVID-19 and finds vaccinations were significantly protective

Research found that pre-existing illnesses and residence in the South region were most often associated with severe outcomes in children. Vaccination was significantly protective across all age groups, with infants having more severe illness than older children. Persistent health disparities across racial and geographic lines were also...

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateOct 7, 2022

Optical foundations illuminated by quantum light

A team at Tampere University has demonstrated that quantum waves behave differently from classical counterparts, increasing the precision of distance measurements. Their findings also shed light on the physical origin of the Gouy phase anomaly in focused light fields.

SourceTampere University·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 7, 2022

Blue energy

Scientists at Osaka University have developed an ultrathin silicon membrane with arrays of nanopores that can harness osmotic flow to generate electricity from seawater. The device achieved peak power efficiency of 400 kW/m² and demonstrated optimal configuration for best power generation.

SourceOsaka University·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Widespread metabolic dysregulation in different organs in type 2 diabetes

Researchers identified protein levels that were higher or lower than normal in tissues from individuals at different stages of type 2 diabetes. The study found a correlation between metabolic pathway disturbances and disease progression, suggesting new potential causal mechanisms for the disease.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 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.

Experimental treatment approach counters allergic asthma without weakening flu defenses

Researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine have discovered a new treatment approach that suppresses allergic asthma without compromising the body's defenses against flu viruses. The treatment, which targets calcium channels in immune cells, has shown promise in reducing asthmatic inflammation and mucus build-up in mice.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Presenting a new decision-making model based on modern society… Published in TFSC, one of the world's Top 3 innovative economic journals

Researchers developed an 'inter-rationality' model, inheriting the limited rationality model, to present an economical alternative for modern societies. The new theory establishes a microeconomic foundation for corporate-level activities in open innovation structures.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·DateOct 7, 2022

How the mother's mood influences her baby's ability to speak

A recent study at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences found that mothers' postnatal depressive moods can impact their babies' ability to distinguish speech sounds. Mothers in a negative mood tend to use less infant-directed speech, leading to delayed language development in infants.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Other SARS-CoV-2 proteins are important for disease severity, aside from the spike

Researchers identified genes that affect immune system response and replication of SARS-CoV-2 virus. Missing ORF3a/b gene led to milder infections, while missing ORF8 gene worsened lung inflammation. Spike protein severity varied across variants, with mutations in accessory proteins altering clinical presentation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 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.

Green hydrogen: Faster progress with modern X-ray sources

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin for Materials and Energy are utilizing X-ray absorption spectroscopy to investigate oxygen evolution in electrocatalysis. This study aims to improve the efficiency of green hydrogen production by developing more stable and cost-effective catalysts.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Sleep mode makes Energy Internet more energy efficient

Nagoya University scientists developed a controller with a sleep mode to procure energy only when needed, reducing the need for storage batteries and capacitors. This innovative solution enables efficient energy saving and promotes the practical application of power packet type energy Internet.

SourceNagoya University·JournalInternational Journal of Robust and Nonlinear Control·DateOct 7, 2022

Fast track to fertility program halves time to treatment

The program cuts the average time it took for new patients to get their first treatment from 97 days to just 41 days, while also allowing more than 1,000 new patients to begin treatments. The system has made significant improvements in efficiency and patient satisfaction, with appointment no-shows dropping by 50%.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNEJM Catalyst·TypeObservational study·DateOct 7, 2022

Increase seen in pediatric BMI during pandemic, study finds

A study tracking pediatric body mass index (BMI) before and during the pandemic found a significant increase in BMI rates, with girls experiencing an 11% mean rise. The study also linked increased screen time and family time together to rising BMIs.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateOct 7, 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.

COVID-19 pandemic may have decreased breastfeeding

Research at LAC+USC Medical Center found a 11% decrease in exclusive breastfeeding and a 4% decrease in any breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic rates. Hospital staffing changes and access to breastfeeding training may have contributed to these declines.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateOct 7, 2022

Caregivers have it tough — and the COVID-19 pandemic made things worse

A new study found that caregivers, particularly women, experience higher odds of health-related vulnerabilities such as food insecurity and financial strain. Caregivers must balance their own lives with those of their dependents, finding ways to care for themselves while dedicating time to caring for loved ones.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateOct 7, 2022

Vaginal immune system may hint at prime vaccine timing

Researchers discovered consistent fluctuations in vaginal immune-signaling molecules during menstrual cycles, influencing fertility and infectious disease development. This study provides a framework for optimizing vaccine administration to align with the immune system's natural ebbs and flows.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 7, 2022

Daylight hours impact opioid receptor levels in brown fat

A new study at the Turku PET Centre discovered that shorter daylight hours increase opioid receptor levels in brown fat of rats. This complements previous findings on day length modulating opioid receptor levels in brain emotional circuits.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalEuropean Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateOct 7, 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.

Underwater movement sensor alerts when a swimmer might be drowning

Researchers created a breathable underwater movement sensor by applying a thin, slippery coating to conductive fabric, enabling the detection of swimmers in distress. The smart system wirelessly alerts a smartphone app when a swimmer stops moving, indicating potential drowning.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 7, 2022

Age vs. genetics: Which is more important for determining how we age?

A University of California, Berkeley study found that aging and environment are more important than genetic variation in affecting gene expression. As individuals age, their gene expression profiles diverge, making genetics less useful in predicting which genes are ramped up or down.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 7, 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.

Neighboring cell types influence single-cell gene expression variability

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have developed a statistical framework called CCPLS that analyzes spatial gene expression data at single-cell resolution. The study found that neighboring cell types influence gene expression variability in ways that were not previously accounted for by existing methods.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBioinformatics·DateOct 7, 2022

Global warming at least doubled the probability of extreme ocean warming around Japan

A new study reveals that global warming has doubled the probability of extreme ocean warming events in Japan's marginal seas since the 2000s. The increased occurrence frequency is attributed to human-induced climate changes, with most events linked to global warming.

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 7, 2022

Chiplet integration technology with simplest scheme

Researchers developed Pillar-Suspended Bridge (PSB) technology for chiplet integration, enabling improved inter-chip connection density and electrical properties. The technology uses a simple structure with high bonding accuracy and reduces yield problems when scaling up integration.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Research brief: Two popular diabetes drugs outperformed others in large clinical trial

A large clinical trial found that insulin glargine and liraglutide were superior to other diabetes drugs in controlling blood sugars. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, compared four common medications used to treat type 2 diabetes when added to metformin.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 7, 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.

3D map reveals DNA organization within human retina cells

NIH scientists mapped the organization of human retinal cell chromatin, revealing insights into regulation of gene expression and retinal function. The study identified distinct patterns of interaction at retinal genes suggesting how chromatin's 3D organization plays a crucial role in tissue-specific gene regulation.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 7, 2022

New research tackles rose rosette, black spot diseases

A new project aims to develop sustainable roses resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses, and have high ornamental quality. The researchers are combining traditional plant breeding with molecular genetics to stack multiple resistance genes into a rose.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateOct 7, 2022

Microbial enzymes are the key to pectin digestion in leaf beetles

The study found that microbial enzymes are essential for the digestion of pectin in leaf beetles, allowing them to access nutrient-rich plant cells. The researchers also discovered that leaf beetle species acquire these enzymes through horizontal gene transfer from other microbes.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

Adults who misused alcohol as teens report dissatisfaction and poor health in midlife

A Rutgers-led study of over 2,700 pairs of twins found that adolescent alcohol misuse is associated with poorer life satisfaction, physical symptoms, and self-rated health in midlife. The study's findings suggest that teenage drinking may have long-lasting indirect effects on physical health and well-being.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeObservational study·DateOct 7, 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.

Reign of PNG’s megafauna lasted long after humans arrived

A new study re-examines fossil bones from the Nombe Rock Shelter in PNG Highlands and suggests that several large mammal species may have survived for another 40,000 years. The research challenges general assumptions about megafaunal extinction timelines and provides fresh insights into the natural history of PNG.

SourceFlinders University·JournalArchaeology in Oceania·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 7, 2022

When making a detour is faster

Researchers develop autonomous navigation strategies for microswimmers, allowing them to navigate optimally in complex environments. These strategies utilize external stimuli, such as light, to guide the microswimmers and improve their performance.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateOct 7, 2022