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Science News Archive September 2022 - Page 12


Page 12 of 38

Why whales don’t get brain damage when they swim

Researchers suggest special blood vessels called 'retia mirabilia' reduce brain pressure pulses, preventing damage. Computer modeling supports theory, which could be applied to other animals and humans.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·DateSep 22, 2022

Detailed insight into friction: How objects start to slide

Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam use fluorescence microscopy and specialized molecules to study the transition from static to dynamic friction. They find that a slip wave propagates from the edge towards the center of the contact area just before sliding occurs.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateSep 22, 2022

Newly discovered COVID-like virus could infect humans, resist vaccines

Researchers have discovered a COVID-like virus in Russian bats that can infect human cells and is resistant to current vaccines. The new virus, named Khosta-2, poses a threat to global health and highlights the need for developing universal vaccines to protect against sarbecoviruses.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 22, 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.

New study reveals breakthrough infections increase immunity to COVID-19

A new study from OHSU reveals that breakthrough infections following vaccination can provide a potent immune response against COVID-19, with increased protection for those 65 and older. The research found an equally strong immune response among people who received a third vaccine booster dose three months prior.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalMed·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

Tiny swimming robots treat deadly pneumonia in mice

Researchers at the University of California San Diego developed microscopic robots called microrobots that can swim around in the lungs and deliver medication. The microrobots safely eliminated pneumonia-causing bacteria in mice, resulting in 100% survival rates, whereas untreated mice died within three days.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

Shedding light on the happy hormone

A novel fluorescent sensor has been developed to visualize the release of oxytocin, also known as the 'happy hormone', in living animals. The sensor, called MTRIA OT, allows for real-time measurement of extracellular oxytocin dynamics in the brain, revealing variability in OT levels dependent on behavioral and physical conditions.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Methods·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 22, 2022

A swarm of 3D printing drones for construction and repair

A team of Swiss researchers has developed Aerial Additive Manufacturing (AAM), a system that uses flying drones to print materials for construction projects. The technology enables on-site manufacturing and building in difficult-to-access or dangerous locations, such as post-disaster relief construction and tall buildings.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

*Free* Dryland forestation lends limited climate change mitigation potential

A new study finds that forestation of Earth's vast drylands would do little to slow climate change, despite its potential for carbon sequestration. Smart dryland forestation can provide local benefits and potentially longer-term climate mitigation, but it cannot replace efforts to rapidly reduce emissions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 22, 2022

Biologists unveil clues to evolutionary origins of brown-colored algae for health, biofuels research

Brown algae's unique pigments have evolved through a complex genetic pathway, enabling them to harness more light energy than green plants. This discovery could lead to insights into fucoxanthin's health applications and improved photosynthetic efficiency for biofuels production.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

Scientists publish perspective paper exploring use of artificial intelligence in skin diseases

A team of scientists from China published a perspective paper on the use of AI in skin diseases, highlighting its potential to assist clinicians. They propose several recommendations to improve AI-assisted diagnosis systems, including establishing a robust database and adapting algorithms to existing real-world databases.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 22, 2022

Traditional computers can solve some quantum problems

Researchers use classical computers to make predictions about quantum systems, helping to solve physics and chemistry problems. Machine learning tools provide a bridge between the human world and quantum reality.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 22, 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.

New bid to 'outflank' antimicrobial resistance

A new project will explore the defence mechanisms of bacterial cells to stop the spread of drug-resistant genes. The team, led by Professor Edze Westra, will use a range of methods to understand how bacteria defend against mobile genetic elements (MGEs) that contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateSep 22, 2022

Study illuminates precancerous "clonal outgrowth" in blood cells

Researchers have discovered how a common blood stem cell mutation, DNMT3A R882, alters gene activity and produces abnormal blood cells that increase cancer risk. The study found that the mutant cells produce more red blood cells and platelets, leading to higher cardiovascular disease risks.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 22, 2022

Reusable contact lenses more than triple risk of rare preventable eye infection

A recent study has found that people who wear reusable contact lenses are nearly four times as likely to develop a rare sight-threatening eye infection. The study identified multiple factors that increase the risk of Acanthamoeba keratitis, including reusing lenses or wearing them overnight or in the shower.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalOphthalmology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2022

A review on mobile sensing in the COVID-19 era

Researchers reviewed mobile sensing designs, outcomes, and limitations to better understand its capacity for remote detection, longitudinal tracking, and exposure tracing. Despite technical and societal challenges, advances in data analytics and machine learning may improve data quality and scalability.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 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.

Motherhood at work: Exploring maternal mental health

A systematic review of studies on working mothers found that conflicting demands between job and parenting roles negatively impact mental health. Organizations can support employees by providing access to paid maternity leave, flexible work arrangements, and co-worker support.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateSep 22, 2022

“Twisty” photons could turbocharge next-gen quantum communication

Scientists at Stevens Institute of Technology have created a method to encode more information into a single photon, enabling faster and more powerful quantum communication tools. The twisty photon technology uses orbital angular momentum to boost the bandwidth of quantum communication systems.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

RNA-editing tool a fast, sensitive test for COVID-19

Researchers developed an engineered Cas13 system that detects SARS-CoV-2 in biological samples with high sensitivity and speed. The new platform outperforms traditional PCR testing, finding 10 out of 11 positives and no false positives in clinical samples.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

A healthy lifestyle may help former smokers lower their risk of death from all causes

A recent study found that former smokers who stick to a healthy lifestyle have a lower risk of dying from all causes, including cancer and heart and lung diseases. The study analyzed data from over 159,000 former smokers and found that maintaining a healthy lifestyle was associated with a 27% reduction in the risk of death.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 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.

Groundbreaking discovery from South Africa challenges the recent re-interpretation of magma chambers

Researchers have found evidence for a massive, molten chamber within the ancient crust of South Africa, contradicting recent views on the existence and longevity of such structures. The discovery suggests that 'big tank' magma chambers may be more common than thought, with implications for our understanding of Earth's geological history.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 22, 2022

Exploring the mechanisms underlying disorders of consciousness

A study by the Human Brain Project distinguished between two neurological conditions using state-of-the-art techniques. The results reveal important information about the mechanisms of consciousness disorders, including altered brain dynamics and reduced functional network activity.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournaleLife·DateSep 22, 2022

It may already be too late to meet UN genetic diversity target, but new findings could guide conservation efforts

A study published in Science found that more than one-tenth of the world's terrestrial genetic diversity may already be lost due to climate change and habitat destruction. This could have serious implications for species' ability to adapt to climate change, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2022

Heat-resistant nanophotonic material could help turn heat into electricity

Developed by a University of Michigan-led team, the material controls infrared radiation flow and is stable at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. It uses destructive interference to reflect infrared energy while letting shorter wavelengths pass through, potentially reducing heat waste in thermophotovoltaic cells.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 22, 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.

Little rodent, big appetite

Invasive house mice on Southeast Farallon Island consume and compete with native species for food, leading to significant impacts on the island ecosystem. The study found that mice are highly opportunistic eaters whose diets vary throughout the year in response to changes in food availability.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalPeerJ·DateSep 22, 2022

Accurate assessment of heart rhythm can optimize chemotherapy use

Researchers found that using the Bazett formula to assess heartbeat rhythms can lead to inaccurate chemotherapy modifications, potentially affecting patient care. Standardizing formulas with electrocardiograms can reduce this risk and improve treatment outcomes.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2022

St. Jude finds a new way to identify ‘safe harbor’ for gene therapies

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have created a tool to identify 'safe harbor' sites for gene therapies, balancing safety and therapeutic expression. The tool uses genomic and epigenetic information to find regions with high variability among healthy individuals, reducing the risk of cancer or other problems.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalGenome Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 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.

Association of healthy lifestyle with mortality among former smokers

A large study of former smokers found that those adhering to evidence-based recommendations for body weight, diet, physical activity, and alcohol intake had a significantly lower risk of death. The study included nearly 160,000 older U.S. adults and showed that better lifestyle habits can reduce mortality risk from various causes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 22, 2022

Deepest scientific ocean drilling sheds light on Japan’s next great earthquake

Scientists have found that the tectonic stress in Japan's Nankai subduction zone is less than expected, contradicting predictions of a major buildup of pent-up energy. The research suggests that the fault may not be as unstable as thought, but still requires further investigation and long-term monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalGeology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

Study connects decomposing body’s BMI to surrounding soil microbes

Researchers found that bodies with lower BMI had decreased bacterial diversity, while those with higher BMI maintained constant diversity. The study suggests intrinsic factors like disease and medication load may impact microbial life in the surrounding soil.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2022

Termite-mediated wood decay is temperature sensitive

Termite-mediated wood decay is significantly influenced by temperature, with termite presence and activity being more sensitive to thermal changes than microbial decomposition. As the planet warms, termites are expected to expand their range, becoming a crucial factor in global carbon cycling.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 22, 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.

COVID-19 infections increase risk of long-term brain problems

New research shows that COVID-19 infections can lead to a range of neurological complications in the first year after infection, including strokes, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, and migraine headaches. The study analyzed over 14 million medical records and found that COVID-19 survivors were at increased risk of developing the...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2022

Monkeypox outbreak highlights need for One Health approach to prevent future zoonotic diseases

The current global monkeypox outbreak emphasizes the importance of a preventative One Health approach to minimize the risk of future emergence of known and unknown zoonotic pathogens. This is particularly crucial with the majority of people worldwide living in high population densities in cities, facilitating the spread of infectious d...

SourceCABI·JournalCABI One Health·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 22, 2022

Novel method to predict behavior of different COVID-19 waves in the vaccinated or previously infected

Researchers developed a faster, more affordable method to analyze serological data and predict COVID-19 wave behavior. The study showed that vaccination boosted immunity, with hybrid immunity producing higher protection levels. Antibody levels rose quickly after the first dose, especially in cities where case numbers were highest.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalVaccines·DateSep 22, 2022

Scientists have found a potential basis for a cure for coronavirus

Researchers found that salen can effectively bind to SARS-CoV-2 proteins, preventing destruction and potentially leading to new treatments. The study, published in Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, shows promise for developing effective coronavirus therapies.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalPolycyclic Aromatic Compounds·DateSep 22, 2022

An integrated modeling framework to assess surface and ground water resources

Researchers applied a new integrated model linking surface water to groundwater to estimate water resources at high spatial resolution. The study found that irrigation increases atmospheric water loss but reduces groundwater support, especially during dry seasons.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalGeoscientific Model Development·DateSep 22, 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.

Reduced power consumption in semiconductor devices

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) developed technology that cuts power consumption in semiconductor devices in half by inserting platinum nanoparticles. The findings increased memory effect of the device by over a million times, allowing for longer operation with relatively low voltage.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 2022

National study calls into question COVID-diabetes link in young people

A new Scottish study found no direct association between COVID-19 infection and increased type 1 diabetes risk in adults and children under 35, suggesting testing explanations for the observed link. Increased testing around the time of diagnosis may be partly responsible for the observed increase.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetes Care·DateSep 22, 2022

Climate change is making lakes less blue

A new study finds that climate change may decrease the percentage of blue lakes worldwide, leading to shifts in lake water color and ecosystem health. The research uses satellite images to determine a global inventory of lake colors, finding that green-brown lakes are more widespread than previously thought.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 22, 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.

Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai Eruption blasted vast quantities of water vapor into the stratosphere

The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai eruption injected at least 50 million metric tons of water vapor directly into the stratosphere, potentially increasing global stratospheric water vapor by more than 5%. This unprecedented event could lead to changes in atmospheric chemistry and dynamics, including stratospheric cooling and surface warming.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 22, 2022

Shocking paint – let’s get cell in

Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, have developed a novel polymer-based solution that enables easy delivery of large molecules to cells. By applying hypertonic solutions, they can induce osmotic stress and relax the cell membrane, allowing for precise control over molecule transfer.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·DateSep 22, 2022

UCLA scientists awarded $10 million by NIH to study developing brain

Researchers at UCLA and UCSF will map gene regulatory regions to understand how genetic variants affect brain development. They aim to build a comprehensive catalog of cell types in the developing brain and identify specific cell types and genomic regions that mediate the risk of brain diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateSep 22, 2022

Substance use disorder treatment during COVID-19

Researchers analyzed changes in substance use disorder treatment admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing significant disparities by sex and ethnicity. The study highlights the need for tailored treatment approaches to address these inequities and ensure equitable access to care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 22, 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.

Unhealthy gut sets stage for breast cancer to spread, research reveals

Research from UVA Cancer Center finds that an unhealthy gut microbiome can trigger changes in normal breast tissue, facilitating cancer's spread to other parts of the body. The study suggests that targeting the gut-mast cell relationship could help prevent breast cancer recurrence and metastasis.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateSep 22, 2022

Tree study shows low-income Brisbane suburbs need more shade

A University of Queensland study reveals low-income Brisbane suburbs have significantly fewer trees than middle- and higher-income areas, leaving residents vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The research highlights the need for increased investment in tree planting to address this environmental inequity.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalAustralian Planner·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2022

Teams of sperm swim more smoothly against the current

A recent study found that sperm clustering in viscoelastic fluid offers three biological benefits: reduced direction changes, improved alignment, and increased safety from strong flows. This research may inform studies on infertility and provide better selection of sperm for assisted-reproduction technologies.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

Researchers uncover how to 3D-print one of the strongest stainless steels

A team of researchers from NIST, UW-Madison, and Argonne National Laboratory identified key compositions that enable consistent 3D-printing of 17-4 PH stainless steel with favorable properties. The new findings could help producers cut costs and increase manufacturing flexibility.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateSep 22, 2022

Pin-prick blood test identifies immunity to COVID-19

A finger-prick blood test developed by Cardiff University researchers can identify individuals most at risk of being reinfected with COVID-19. The test measures T cells that recognize SARS-CoV-2 and shows those with a stronger response are best protected from the virus.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 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.

The greatest increase in animal species in the history of the Earth can help us understand and control ocean deoxygenation

A recent study published in Communications Earth & Environment found that stable oxygen levels in the ocean, rather than high oxygen levels alone, triggered the greatest increase in animal species in Earth's history. This discovery may help scientists preserve marine ecosystems and understand how to control ocean deoxygenation.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

Modulating MoSe2 functional plane via doping-defect engineering strategy to develop conductive and electrocatalytic mediators in Li-S batteries

Researchers developed a conductive and electrocatalytic mediator for Li-S batteries by modulating the MoSe2 functional plane through doping-defect engineering. This approach improves lithium polysulfide adsorption, reducing the shuttle effect and enhancing overall battery performance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateSep 22, 2022

Clarifying the chaos of narwhal behavior

Long-term monitoring data reveals previously undetected diurnal patterns in narwhal behavior, including changes in surface activity and diving patterns influenced by sea ice and squid migration. The study's method can be applied to assess the challenges faced by narwhals and other Arctic animals due to climate change.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 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.

Aged neurons generated directly from skin more accurately model Parkinson’s disease

Researchers have successfully created dopaminergic neurons directly from the skin of patients with Parkinson's disease, preserving aged characteristics and cellular defects. This breakthrough allows for modeling PD-related neuronal defects in a larger cohort of patients, aiming to identify disease causes and potential therapies.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateSep 22, 2022