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Science News Archive October 2022 - Page 4


Page 4 of 37

Skull variation reveals “attenuated evolution” of mammals across the Cenozoic

A new study reveals that mammal diversity declined over time, with faster evolutionary rates among social, aquatic, and herbivorous species. Using skull shapes of 322 living and extinct mammals, researchers found that the rate of change tapered off after a peak around the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 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.

ANU scientists use deep planetary scan to confirm Martian core

Researchers from Australian National University confirmed the existence of a large core at Mars' center, measuring approximately 3,620 kilometers in diameter. This discovery sheds light on the Red Planet's magnetic field and its significance for sustaining life.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateOct 27, 2022

Design of a new class of fast-onset antidepressant

A new small-molecule compound regulates serotonergic neurons and has been shown to have a fast-acting antidepressant effect in mice. The findings provide a promising avenue for developing new therapeutics for MDD and other difficult-to-treat mood disorders.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 2022

CABI-led study provides comprehensive review of devastating fall armyworm pest

The CABI-led study provides a comprehensive review of the devastating fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), highlighting its serious impact on maize and other cereal crops in Africa and parts of Asia and Australasia. The research offers recommendations for research to enhance sustainable management of FAW in invaded regions.

SourceCABI·JournalEntomologia Generalis·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 27, 2022

Annenberg debuts Science and Public Health Knowledge Monitor

The Annenberg Science and Public Health Knowledge Monitor assesses public knowledge on climate, maternal health, vaccination, and more. The quarterly survey reports aim to highlight strengths and weaknesses in public knowledge and inform public health strategies.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·TypeSurvey·DateOct 27, 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.

Overcoming resistance to colon cancer treatment

Researchers at UNIGE have discovered a way to overcome resistance to chemotherapy in colorectal cancer, using an optimized combination of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for developing targeted therapies that can effectively treat patients with low five-year survival rates.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCancers·TypeNews article·DateOct 27, 2022

NIH researchers home in on a new cause of Stargardt disease

Scientists discovered the first direct evidence that Stargardt-related ABCA4 gene mutations affect a layer of cells in the eye called the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The study suggests a therapeutic strategy for the disease, which currently lacks treatment.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Collaborative food is medicine initiative launches in Mississippi delta

A collaborative effort aims to lower rates of obesity and diabetes by increasing access to locally produced fruits and vegetables in the Mississippi Delta. The $6.6 million NIH grant will fund community-based programs to expand local production and consumption of healthy foods, targeting high-risk areas with high rates of these diseases.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·DateOct 27, 2022

The brain cells that slow us down when we're sick

Researchers discovered a specific population of brainstem neurons controlling sickness behaviors in mice, including reduced eating and movement. Inhibiting these neurons blunted the effects of inflammation on behavior, highlighting the link between the immune system and neural pathways regulating behavior.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sticking together without stickiness

Enzymatic reactions induce phase separation and autoregulation of enzyme activity, creating dynamic environments for cellular processes. This novel mechanism provides an alternative to traditional understanding of cellular organelle function.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 27, 2022

Sedentary lifestyle and sugary diet more detrimental to men

A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine found that short-term exposure to reduced physical activity and increased sugar consumption disrupts insulin response in blood vessels, with men more prone to vascular insulin resistance. In contrast, young women are protected against this condition.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEndocrinology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

New evidence of biochemical states and force working in concert

A new study in Nature provides high-resolution structures showing how two key biochemical states of actin work jointly with bending forces to determine how actin can interact with other proteins. The research reveals a model of protein regulation that involves biochemical states and force working in concert.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 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.

Lamin c facilitates repair of damaged nuclear envelope in human and mouse cells

A team of researchers identified the precise mechanism of nuclear envelope repair, finding that lamin C, BAF, and cGAS work together to facilitate rapid repair. The study provides insights into rare genetic disorders such as laminopathies and has potential applications for understanding and treating related diseases.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Synthetic energy metabolism enables twin engine for cell

A novel synthetic energy system supports yeast cell growth and produces highly reduced chemicals, achieving high yields of biofuels. The system's reductive metabolism enables efficient energy production, overcoming stoichiometric constraints and outperforming natural metabolic processes.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Metabolism·DateOct 27, 2022

Researchers design next-generation electrolytes for lithium metal batteries

A team of researchers at the University of Tokyo has discovered a new mechanism to stabilize lithium metal electrodes and electrolytes, leading to enhanced energy density. By introducing a compound called ferrocene into specific electrolyte systems, they achieved high Coulombic efficiency, a critical factor in battery cycle life.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Energy·DateOct 27, 2022

Australians clueless about their country’s most endangered species

Researchers found that 90% of surveyed individuals did not recognize six out of seven endangered species. Increasing public knowledge and recognition can boost conservation support for these vulnerable animals. The study highlights the need for targeted marketing initiatives to change people's perception of lesser-known species.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal for Nature Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 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.

University of Galway study identifies alcohol risk factors for acute stroke

A global study found that high and moderate alcohol consumption is associated with increased odds of stroke, while low-level drinking has no link. The INTERSTROKE research involved almost 26,000 people worldwide and explored the role of alcohol intake in stroke risk, revealing complex associations with socioeconomic factors.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalNeurology·TypeCase study·DateOct 27, 2022

The contribution of water molecules to the hydrogen evolution reaction

Researchers at Chongqing University investigate the contribution of water molecules to the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) mechanism. They found that water molecules act as both reactants and solvents, influencing the kinetics and dynamics of HER. Enriching and reorienting interfacial water can dramatically improve HER kinetics.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateOct 27, 2022

The virtual water impact of the US beef network

The US beef industry is found to be the least efficient at using virtual water, with a significant amount of blue water needed to produce just one ton of boneless beef. Researchers have developed a model to trace virtual water flows in beef supply chains, revealing major disconnects between consumption and production counties.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 27, 2022

CU Anschutz researchers reveal why shingles can lead to stroke

A new study from CU Anschutz Medical Campus reveals that shingles can increase the risk of stroke, especially in people under 40, due to prothrombotic and proinflammatory exosomes. The researchers suggest using antiviral agents and anti-inflammatory medications may help mitigate this risk.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 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.

Rare Earth elements synthesis confirmed in neutron star mergers

Researchers identified rare Earth elements produced by neutron star mergers for the first time, using kilonova spectra simulations and ATERUI II supercomputer. The discovery confirms previous hypotheses about element creation and advances our knowledge of the Universe.

SourceTohoku University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateOct 27, 2022

Nostalgia — a rhetorical tool for populists and the radical right

Research shows that nationalist nostalgia is a key rhetorical tool for the radical right, emphasizing a superior past and linking it to issues like immigration and economic decline. This type of nostalgia can be exclusionary and polarizing, targeting migrants and oversimplifying complex social problems.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalSociological Forum·TypeCase study·DateOct 27, 2022

Anti-cancer drugs, olaparib and adavosertib, work best when given sequentially in patients with advanced tumours driven by DNA damage response mutations: results from Phase Ib STAR clinical trial

A Phase Ib clinical trial found that sequential administration of PARP inhibitor olaparib and WEE1 inhibitor adavosertib is safe and well-tolerated, with promising signs of anti-tumor activity in patients with advanced cancers driven by DNA damage response mutations. The combination showed durable responses in patients with resistant c...

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 27, 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.

Safe, sustainable photo-on-demand synthesis of polypeptide precursors: Promising ‘building blocks’ for new functional materials

A research group at Kobe University has successfully synthesized α-amino acid N-Carboxyanhydrides (NCAs), a crucial precursor for artificial polypeptides, using the photo-on-demand phosgenation method. This new synthesis method eliminates the use of toxic phosgene and is considered safe, inexpensive, and simple.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Omega·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

“Kagome” metallic crystal adds new spin to electronics

Researchers discovered a novel metallic crystal, Kagome metal, with unusual electronic behavior on its surface. The material's unique atomic structure allows for the manipulation of electrons' spin chirality, which can be controlled by applying a local voltage.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Climate change linked to health crises and food insecurity

Climate change is exacerbating health crises among migrant workers in the US agriculture sector, with extreme heat and chemical exposure posing significant risks. The Lancet report highlights the unequal burdens of climate change, particularly on vulnerable populations.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 27, 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.

Ancient viral DNA in human genome guards against infections

Researchers found that ancient viral DNA in the human genome can act as antivirals, protecting human cells against certain viruses. The study, published in Science, provides proof of principle for this effect and reveals a potential genome defense system.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 2022

What seismic waves reveal about Martian crust?

Researchers analyze seismic surface waves to determine Martian crust density and structure. The data reveals a uniform crust beneath the impact sites, contradicting earlier findings at the InSight lander.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2022

New research reveals wastewater treatment plants can catch a cold

New research reveals a relationship between virus concentration and organic carbon in wastewater treatment plant effluents. The study found that viruses can affect the concentration of organic carbon, leading to potential negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems nearby.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalWater Research X·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Digital and group-based lifestyle counselling to prevent type 2 diabetes shows real-world effectiveness in Finnish health care

A one-year lifestyle intervention with a digital app and group counselling improved diet quality, reduced abdominal obesity and insulin resistance among 2907 Finnish adults at risk of type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that commitment to lifestyle counselling supports positive changes.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateOct 27, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Pandemic-related stress linked with changes in menstrual cycle

Research from the University of Pittsburgh found that high COVID-19 stress in women is associated with changes in menstrual cycle length, period duration, and spotting. The study suggests that these changes can have economic and health consequences for women, including increased costs for feminine hygiene products.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·TypeSurvey·DateOct 27, 2022

On the trail of missing genes and cancer clues

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered a direct link between TET protein loss of function and missing genes in embryonic stem cells, which can lead to cancer growth. The study found that TET proteins are crucial for maintaining genome stability, and their loss results in aneuploidies, a common feature of cancer cells.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Diabetes-causing gene can be regulated like a rheostat

A study found that the HASTER lncRNA promoter regulates the activity of the HNF1A gene, which causes diabetes. This discovery paves the way for new therapeutic strategies by manipulating this regulatory element.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Children very vulnerable to severe injury from quad bike use

A study published in BMJ Open found that quad bike injuries among children are significantly more severe and common than car injuries. The research highlights the need for public education campaigns to educate on ATV-related injuries, particularly in young riders.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2022

Two major meteorite impacts shed light on the interior of Mars

Researchers used seismic data and orbital observations to refine knowledge of Mars' planetary interior. The studies provide new constraints that validate and refine models of the planet's internal structure and dynamics of major impacts.

SourceInstitut de physique du globe de Paris·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 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.

A key regulator of cell growth deciphered

A team from the University of Geneva has identified the structure of the SEA complex, a key regulator of cell growth, and how it controls the activity of the major regulator of cell growth, mTOR. The discovery provides new insights into how cells perceive nutrient levels to regulate their growth.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateOct 27, 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.

New Center of Innovation at OIST

The Global Bioconvergence Center of Innovation aims to bridge academia, government, and industry by promoting interdisciplinary synergies in life sciences, biomedical research, marine sciences, AI, and complex systems. The center will accelerate the development of practical solutions for a 'One World, One Health' society.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·DateOct 27, 2022

Experimental drug to treat liver cancer shows evidence of activity with manageable side effects

A new experimental drug has shown promising results in treating liver cancer, with two patients experiencing a partial response to the treatment. The drug, NMS-01940153E, targets an enzyme that plays a critical role in cell division and growth, and its side effects are manageable.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 27, 2022

Why some people are mosquito magnets

Researchers found that individuals with high levels of fatty acids in their sebum are more attractive to mosquitoes. The study, published in Cell, used a round-robin tournament to test the attractiveness of human skin samples to Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateOct 27, 2022

Study shows hazardous herbicide chemical goes airborne

A study from Washington University in St. Louis found that amines used in herbicide formulations volatilize, releasing toxic particles into the atmosphere and affecting climate chemistry. The research highlights the importance of understanding amines' role in atmospheric pollution.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Actors supress their sense of self when playing a new character

Researchers found that actors' brain activity suppressed when hearing their own name during performance, indicating potential impact of theatre training on human brain. The study also investigated interpersonal coordination between actors and found specific brain systems involved in social interactions.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 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.

Trunk dexterity explained: Berlin scientists decipher facial motor control in elephants

Researchers from Humboldt University of Berlin and Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research examined the facial motor nucleus of African and Asian elephants. They found more facial motor neurons than any other terrestrial mammal, with African savanna elephants having up to 63,000 neurons.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Magma on Mars likely

A recent study published in Nature suggests that Mars is still experiencing volcanic activity, with quakes originating from the Cerberus Fossae region indicating a warm source of molten lava. The seismic data also shows darker deposits of dust surrounding the area, suggesting geological evidence of more recent volcanic activity.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2022

New hybrid structures could pave the way to more stable quantum computers

Researchers at Penn State have created a two-dimensional heterostructure by combining a topological insulator with a monolayer superconductor, demonstrating topological superconductivity and Ising-type superconductivity. The hybrid structure could pave the way for more stable quantum computers and explore Majorana fermions.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 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.

Companies’ ‘deforestation-free’ supply chain pledges have barely impacted forest clearance in the Amazon

A recent study found that companies' zero-deforestation supply chain commitments have reduced tree clearance in the Brazilian Amazon by only 1.6% between 2006 and 2015. Despite this, over 50% of soy-suitable forests in Brazil remain unprotected. Experts call for stronger regulations to effectively combat deforestation.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 27, 2022

The answer to high-performance AI: in-situ photonic accelerator

A team of scientists has developed a novel photonic neural network accelerator based on a non-volatile Opto-Resistive RAM Switch, achieving programmable nonlinear activation functions. The accelerator demonstrates superior performance in MNIST handwritten digit recognition tasks, with accuracy rates up to 91.6%, reduced power consumpti...

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateOct 27, 2022

‘Prime and Spike’ nasal vaccine strategy helps combat COVID

A Yale-designed 'Prime and Spike' nasal vaccine approach can help combat COVID-19 by bolstering immune responses in the respiratory system. The strategy, which involves a combination of a prime vaccination and a spike protein booster administered directly into the nostril, has been shown to reduce viral shedding and transmission.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 2022