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Science News for September 9, 2022


Fungal infections increase mortality among hospitalized COVID-19 patients worldwide

A recent study finds that fungal infections during the pandemic are a significant public health problem with limited treatment options. The interaction between pathogen and host may be different in people with compromised immunity, leading to increased mortality rates among severe COVID-19 patients.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 9, 2022

Is climate change disrupting maritime boundaries?

Researchers warn that climate change will increase uncertainty in international law governing maritime zones, affecting small island states. Technologies like GPS and satellite bathmetry may help solidify claims, but more data is needed to accurately delineate existing boundaries.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 9, 2022

Climate change is affecting drinking water quality

A study by Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ found that climate-induced deforestation can lead to a significant increase in dissolved phosphorus concentration and nitrogen levels in reservoirs. This can result in an overgrowth of diatoms and green algae, compromising water quality.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalWater Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 9, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

COVID-19 drugs persist in wastewater, may pose risk to aquatic organisms

A new study found that COVID-19 treatments like remdesivir and dexamethasone persist in wastewater treatment plants and may harm aquatic life. The research highlights the utility of wastewater surveillance in monitoring human health impacts on water quality and ecosystem health.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateSep 9, 2022

Could more of Earth’s surface host life?

A new study suggests that Earth's habitability could increase if Jupiter's orbit becomes more eccentric, leading to parts of the surface warming up and becoming habitable for multiple life forms. The researchers also found that this change in Jupiter's orbit could have implications for the search for habitable planets around other stars.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 9, 2022

Sport, sleep or screens: New app reveals the ‘just right’ day for kids

The Healthy-Day-App assesses time use patterns in children and predicts outcomes on body fat percentages, wellbeing, and academic performance. Shifting screen time to physical activity results in improved health outcomes, including 4.2% lower body fat and 2.5% better wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 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.

Why plants worldwide became woody

Researchers discovered a link between increased drought and increased wood formation in plant stems on islands. The study found over three times as many insular woody species as previously known, with over 175 independent transitions. This research offers promising avenues for agriculture to increase drought tolerance and food production.

SourceNaturalis Biodiversity Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 9, 2022

Understanding climate tipping must be prioritized

Researchers emphasize the importance of understanding climate tipping points, which can occur abruptly in response to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. They recommend a special report on tipping points by the IPCC and improved monitoring of critical chokepoints, such as ice sheets and tropical systems.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 9, 2022

A little strain goes a long way in reducing fuel cell performance

Researchers found that a 2% reduction in atomic distance on the surface leads to a significant decrease in hydrogen ion conductivity, reducing fuel cell performance. Developing methods to mitigate this strain is crucial for improving high-performance fuel cells for clean energy production.

SourceKyushu University·JournalJournal of Physics Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 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.

Not just a backup – the dual specificity of UBA6

The research team at the University of Würzburg has reported the first structures of UBA6 in complex with either ATP or FAT10, shedding light on its dual recognition capability. The study also identified UBA6 variants that selectively abolish the activation of either ubiquitin or FAT10.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

What's the best way to combine sports and school?

Elite sports schools offer a balance between academic work and sports development, while regular sports-friendly schools pose more challenges. Students who attend elite sports programs have an easier schedule and better development opportunities.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Sports Science·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2022

Jumping gene found to be strongly linked to depression, fear, and anxiety

A study by OIST researchers found that a well-known gene called Tob plays an important role in reducing depression, fear, and anxiety. The presence of the Tob gene helps with stress-resilience, while its removal leads to increased symptoms.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

UCLA Health researchers analyze LA’s ‘stunningly diverse’ genetic ancestry to bring ethnic equity to precision medicine

Researchers analyzed genomic data from 30,000 patients and found a highly diverse patient population with ancestries from virtually all continents. This study aims to leverage genetic diversity for discovery in personalized healthcare, especially for underrepresented populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 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.

NSF names WVU a partner institution for new I-Corps Hub

West Virginia University has been selected as a partner institution for the National Science Foundation's Innovation Corps Hub: Interior Northeast Region. The university will receive nearly $1 million to support entrepreneurship training for STEM researchers with deep tech innovations. The I-Corps program aims to expand innovation ecos...

SourceWest Virginia University·DateSep 9, 2022

Duke-NUS study highlights blind spot in SARS-CoV-2 immunity research, suggests breakthrough infection may confer extra protection to vaccinees

Researchers found virus-specific T cells in the noses of people who received vaccines and later became infected with SARS-CoV-2, providing an additional layer of protection. These cells persisted for at least 20 weeks and could recognize various viral proteins, including those from the Omicron variant.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

Breaking down proteins: How starving cancer cells switch food sources

Researchers discovered a protein LYSET that enables cancer cells to digest extracellular proteins as an alternative food source under nutrient starvation conditions. This finding provides insight into the molecular pathways underlying cancer cell adaptation and could lead to new therapeutic strategies.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 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.

First discovery of microplastics from water trapped on plant leaves

A team of researchers found microplastics in water trapped in plant leaf axils, a first-time discovery that highlights the global risk of contamination. The study, conducted in Slovakia, used teasel phytotelmata, small aquatic ecosystems formed by plants, to detect the presence of microplastics.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBIORISK – Biodiversity and Ecosystem Risk Assessment·DateSep 9, 2022

MSU researchers help reveal a ‘blueprint’ for photosynthesis

Researchers from MSU and Berkeley Lab have developed a high-resolution image of the cyanobacterial light-harvesting antenna, providing insights into how light energy is captured and converted. The study reveals new discoveries, including a small protein acting as a surge protector for the massive antenna.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateSep 9, 2022

New antiviral therapy may block COVID-19 transmission

Researchers developed a novel, single-dose, intranasal treatment that reduces symptoms and viral shedding of multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants. The therapeutic interfering particle (TIP) treatment effectively blocks COVID-19 transmission in animal models.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2022

New AI system predicts how to prevent wildfires

A new neural network model developed by Aalto University researchers can accurately predict the occurrence of fires in peatlands. The model identified a suite of interventions that would reduce fire incidence by 50-76%.

SourceAalto University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateSep 9, 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.

Significant risk of sensory loss in long COVID - study

A new study published in Frontiers in Medicine found that around 30% of people with long COVID experience a decreased sense of smell, with 29.9% reporting persistent anosmia after 12 weeks. Researchers also discovered an elevated prevalence of blurred vision and hearing-related symptoms after three months.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 9, 2022

DOE Energy Frontier Research Center on molten salts renewed for four years

The U.S. Department of Energy has renewed funding for a research center studying molten salts, which have potential applications in improving the safety and efficiency of nuclear power. The center, led by Brookhaven National Laboratory, will receive $13.3 million over four years to advance our understanding of molten salt properties.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateSep 9, 2022

Circalunar clocks: Using the right light

Researchers have discovered that L-cryptochrome, a molecule in marine animals, can interpret moonlight to entrain the monthly clock for sexual maturation and reproduction. This ability helps organisms adjust their behavior and physiology by light.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 9, 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.

Alliance Foundation trials study finds combination hormonal therapy delivered in finite period improves PSA levels in patients with prostate cancer

A randomized phase III trial found that combination hormonal therapy, delivered for a finite treatment interval of 12 months, more durably suppresses PSA levels compared to hormone injections alone. The treatment approach improved disease progression in patients with high-risk biochemically relapsed prostate cancer.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·DateSep 9, 2022

New study on financial management in higher ed shows that budgeting flexibility is the key to security

A new study from the Strategic Management Journal found that budgeting flexibility is crucial for financial security in higher education. Universities that can reallocate resources more regularly are more likely to run larger budget surpluses, with high governance arrangements actually weakening resource allocation flexibility.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeCase study·DateSep 9, 2022

$11.3 million NIH Superfund award to address environmental health issues caused by VOCs

The Center for Leadership in Environmental Awareness and Research (CLEAR) will investigate toxic mechanisms, exposure pathways, biomarkers, and strategies to prevent exposures. It aims to reduce toxic exposures and improve health outcomes through innovative methods such as phytoscreening and Internet of Things technology.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateSep 9, 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.

Food insecurity has lasting impacts on the brains and behavior of mice

A new study by UC Berkeley neuroscientists simulated food insecurity in juvenile mice, finding lasting changes in learning, decision-making, and dopamine neurons. The stability of the food supply during young age affects cognitive flexibility in adulthood.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

Longer, hotter and more frequent heat waves in cities

Researchers at the University of Zurich found that compound concurrent hot day and night extremes are projected to increase by up to 7.8-fold in frequency and 5.3-fold in duration in all cities in Switzerland by the end of the century. Lugano and Geneva will be most affected.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalWeather and Climate Extremes·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2022

Analysis of gestational weight gain during pandemic

The study found that pregnant individuals younger than 25 years, non-Hispanic Black individuals, unmarried individuals, and those with obesity before pregnancy experienced higher gestational weight gain. The pandemic also led to a higher risk of excessive gestational weight gain among these groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 9, 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.

NIH awards $3.35M to promote diversity in genomics training

The NIH will fund a program to establish partnerships between universities and allow undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds to conduct genomics research and receive career development training. The goal is to strengthen the pathway for undergraduate students to pursue graduate education in genomics.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateSep 9, 2022

How more female executives in the C-suite can spur improved customer orientation and financial performance

A new study by St. Edward’s University, University of Mississippi, and University of Texas at Austin finds that female executives focus on customer relationships to a greater degree than their male counterparts, leading to more customer-oriented discussions in the C-suite. The researchers examine 389 Fortune 500 firms over six years an...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 9, 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.

The long and short of a supergene for efficient pollination

Researchers at Stockholm University solved the mystery of the supergene responsible for distylous flowers with differing lengths of male and female sexual organs. The study reveals that the supergene itself varied in length, with a dominant form containing about 260,000 base pairs of DNA.

SourceStockholm University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

Unique ferroelectric microstructure revealed for first time

The study reveals a new pathway to develop lead-free ferroelectric materials with strong piezoelectric properties. The novel hybrid improper ferroelectric material combines rotation and tilting of oxygen octahedra to produce polarization, enabling the creation of powerful piezoelectric systems.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

Artificial ocean cooling to weaken hurricanes is futile, study finds

A new study led by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School found that artificially cooling oceans to weaken hurricanes is a futile solution due to its high energy requirements and minimal benefits. The research suggests focusing on adaptation strategies such as reinforcing infrastructure and improving evacuation procedures instead.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 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.

The origins of donkey domestication

The study reveals that donkeys were first domesticated in Africa 5,000 years ago, with a previously unknown genetic lineage discovered in the Levant. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the history of trade between Europe and North Africa.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

A breakthrough discovery in carbon capture conversion for ethylene production

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago developed a method to convert 100% of captured carbon dioxide into ethylene, producing hydrocarbons with high purity. The process uses electrolysis and can recycle almost all carbon dioxide captured, making it carbon negative when powered by renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 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.

Immune cells engineered to battle cancer can be turned “on” or “off”

Researchers have developed a new safety system for CAR-T cells, called VIPER CAR-T cells, that can be turned on or off. This allows doctors to target cancer more aggressively while minimizing side effects. The new system uses an FDA-approved antiviral drug to control the cell's activity.

SourceBoston University·JournalCancer Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 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.

Gender-balanced teams produce more innovative, impactful scientific work, according to new research from MSU, Northwestern, Notre Dame and NYU

A study by researchers at MSU, Northwestern, Notre Dame and NYU found that gender-balanced teams produced significantly more novel and impactful scientific work compared to unbalanced teams. Teams with an equal number of men and women had the highest likelihood of novel and impactful results.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2022

Is over-eating to blame for bulges in Milky Way bar?

A new simulation suggests that gravitational interactions, not over-eating, are responsible for the Milky Way Galaxy's peanut-shaped and nuclear bulges. The study reveals a clear break in star ages between the two types of bulges, indicating when the bar formed.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 9, 2022

Climate models unreliable in predicting wave damage to coral reefs, say scientists

Researchers found climate models are less accurate in projecting how tropical cyclones will affect individual coral reefs, highlighting the importance of targeted conservation efforts. The study urges caution when using climate models to identify vulnerable reef communities to storm damage.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEarth s Future·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 9, 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.

The roots of biodiversity: how proteins differ across species

A new study compares the proteomes of skin cells from 11 mammals, revealing protein variation that drives biological diversity and may explain cancer resistance. The researchers found that some proteins are more variable between species than within, suggesting they play key roles in mammalian evolution.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 9, 2022

U.S. clinical trial evaluating antiviral for monkeypox begins

A Phase 3 clinical trial is enrolling adults and children with monkeypox infection in the US to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tecovirimat (TPOXX). The trial aims to gather data on lesion healing, pain scores, disease progression, and safety.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 9, 2022

Clever birds have cheap neurons

Researchers found avian neurons consume three times less glucose than mammalian neurons due to smaller size and efficient energy usage. This surprising finding sheds light on the evolution of intelligent bird brains.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 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.

Pandemic federal programs helped kids in need get access to 1.5 billion meals every month

The study found that pandemic federal programs, including grab-and-go school meals and the Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) program, reached over 30 million children and provided nearly 1.5 billion meals in 2020. The programs helped low-income families access nutritious food during a critical time when schools were closed due to COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2022