Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2022 - Page 7


Page 7 of 38

Study finds different comorbidities have different impacts on COVID outcomes

A new study found that certain pre-existing conditions have a more significant impact on COVID-19 outcomes than previously thought. Researchers developed a novel prediction model, PDeathDx, which outperformed conventional models and identified degenerative neurological diseases, dementia, and severe disabilities as major risk factors.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBiology Methods and Protocols·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 27, 2022

The effects of stress and coping strategies regarding COVID-19 also depend on the pre-pandemic state of brain networks

Researchers found that individuals with more isolated executive control networks were more sensitive to the effects of stress, highlighting the importance of better coping strategies. Combining psychological factors and neuroimaging measures provided an innovative approach to understanding the impact of COVID-19 on mental health.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2022

Yes, men run faster than women, but over shorter distances -- not by much

Research from SMU's Locomotor Performance Lab shows that men have a relatively small advantage over women in shorter sprint distances. The study analyzed data from sanctioned international athletic competitions and found that sex differences in sprint running performance increase with event distance.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2022

Study shows how turtles fared decade after oil spill

Researchers confirm that turtles rehabilitated in the aftermath of the Kalamazoo River oil spill had high long-term survival rates, with up to 11 years post-spill showing nearly imperceptible differences in monthly survival probability. The study's findings suggest that rehabilitation efforts increased the monthly survival probability ...

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 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.

The business case for reducing gun violence

Research by Harvard Medical School professor Zirui Song finds that the economic cost of firearm injuries in the US is over $557 billion annually. This includes quality-of-life losses among those injured and their families, as well as indirect costs to employers and health insurers.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 27, 2022

Radical action is needed for the climate. This means transforming the way we do science

A new Perspective piece calls for a radical response to the climate crisis in science, particularly in agriculture and food systems. The authors emphasize the need for transformative adaptation that prioritizes social equity and brings together all stakeholders.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalEnvironmental Research Climate·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 27, 2022

NJIT researchers unlock a new method for testing protein-based drugs

Researchers at NJIT have developed a new lab technique that could speed up drug discovery and development of therapeutic proteins and vaccines. The electrochemistry-based approach allows for safety and quality testing to be done at a fraction of the time required by conventional methods.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 27, 2022

Powerful Bragg reflector with ultrahigh refractive index metamaterial

A research team at POSTECH and Sungkyunkwan University has developed an ultrahigh refractive index metamaterial that maximizes light-matter interaction. The material recorded the highest-ever refractive index of 7.8 in visible and near-infrared regions, enabling strong reflection of specific wavelengths.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 27, 2022

Young women who reduce binge drinking could decrease risk of COVID-19 infection, study shows

A Rutgers University study found that young women who reported frequent binge drinking during the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to become infected with COVID-19. Researchers identified patterns of substance use among young Black and white women and associated them with COVID-19 impacts on health and personal finances.

SourceRutgers University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeObservational study·DateSep 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.

More effective facilitators can support primary care organizational change

A mixed methods study found that high-performing facilitators in a large-scale quality improvement initiative showed significant impact on clinical outcomes, with 75% or more of their assigned practices demonstrating improvements. The research analyzed data from 162 facilitators supporting 1,630 primary care practices across 12 states.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 27, 2022

Edge waves, continental shelf fueled the 2021 Acapulco Bay tsunami

A new study found that edge waves and the short continental shelf contributed to the prolonged duration of the tsunami. The researchers used strong motion, GNSS, satellite, and tide gauge data to model the earthquake and learn more about the tsunami's behavior in Acapulco Bay.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·TypeObservational study·DateSep 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.

Fasting-mimicking diet reduces signs of dementia in mice

The fasting-mimicking diet reduced Alzheimer's pathology in mice, including amyloid beta and tau protein levels, and showed less brain inflammation. Mice on the diet also performed better on cognitive tests, with some showing improved performance comparable to non-Alzheimer's mice.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2022

Microwave photonics

The article reviews microwave photonics techniques, including signal generation, filtering, and beamforming. It discusses the use of parity-time symmetry for high-performance oscillation and recent progress in integrated microwave photonics, including materials systems and application-specific photonic integrated circuits.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Information Sciences·DateSep 27, 2022

Being lonely and unhappy accelerates aging more than smoking

A recent study published in Aging-US found that feeling lonely, unhappy, or hopeless increases one's biological age more than smoking. The research used digital models of aging to analyze the effects of various factors on aging rates, revealing a significant correlation between mental health and accelerated aging.

SourceDeep Longevity Ltd·JournalAging-US·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 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.

Regularly exercising with weights linked to lower risk of death

Research suggests that regularly exercising with weights is associated with a lower risk of death from any cause, excluding cancer. A weekly combination of weights and aerobic exercise appears to have an additive effect on mortality risk.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 27, 2022

Quantum technology reaches unprecedented control over captured light

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a technique to control quantum states of light in a three-dimensional cavity, creating the long-sought cubic phase state. The breakthrough enables full control over quantum mechanical systems, paving the way for efficient error correction in quantum computers.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalPRX Quantum·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2022

Study finds most doctor-patient interruptions are cooperative and can enhance interactions

Research found that almost 83% of interruptions were cooperative, preserving interaction flow and allowing physicians to establish common ground. The type of interruption was predicted by role, gender, and consultation phase, with male doctors more likely to make intrusive interruptions than female doctors.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 27, 2022

Kidney disease measures are associated with structural brain damage across different domains of etiology

Reduced kidney function and increased urine albumin excretion are associated with brain volume reduction in regions typically affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementia etiologies. Cognitive decline is common in patients with kidney disease, and this study provides new insights into the etiology and localization of brain damage.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateSep 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.

Sunny future for solar power: Efficiency of low-cost solar cells improved

Researchers have developed a new type of low-cost selenium solar cell using tellurium alloy, which improves efficiency by expanding the absorption spectrum. The Se-1-x Te-x alloy system has shown promise in achieving high performance, with efficiencies over 1.85% achieved after nine months in air.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2022

Study outlines one way employers can head off ‘quiet quitting’

A recent study from North Carolina State University found that employees' relationships with coworkers significantly impact their sense of purpose and drive at work. The researchers discovered that employees who receive advice and support from their peers are more likely to feel a strong connection to the company.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalHuman Resource Management·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2022

Revealing the genome of the common ancestor of all mammals

Researchers have reconstructed the genome of the common ancestor of all mammals, revealing key features such as 19 autosomal chromosomes and 38 sex chromosomes. The study provides insights into the evolutionary stability of gene order and orientation on chromosomes over millions of years.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 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.

Lead safety guidance lacking for urban farmers in many major US cities

A new study finds that many major US cities lack clear guidelines for safe lead levels in urban soils, where food is grown. This can lead to exposure risks for consumers, particularly children. Researchers call for federal standards and better access to information to support safer urban agriculture practices.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeoHealth·DateSep 27, 2022

Diverse landscapes at the heart of bee conservation

Researchers found that small amounts of development can positively impact bee species in a given area, revealing the importance of forest remnants and blended landscapes. The study discovered 111 species, representing 20% of known Georgia bee species, and provided a framework for future research to assist in bee conservation.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Insect Conservation·DateSep 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.

As few as 1 in 5 COVID cases may have been counted worldwide, mathematical models suggest

Mathematical models suggest that only 1 in 5 COVID-19 cases were counted worldwide, resulting in an estimated 600 million to 2.4 billion actual cases globally. The wide range of estimated cases highlights the problems with accuracy of reported numbers due to data tampering, inconsistent reporting, and lack of uniformity.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalCurrent Science·DateSep 27, 2022

Tighter school security leads to lower test scores, study finds

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis finds that tighter school security measures are detrimental to academic performance, reducing test scores in math and increasing suspensions across all students. The burden of increased surveillance falls disproportionately on Black students, exacerbating racial inequities in education.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Criminal Justice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 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.

Health inequity may drive higher symptom burden in childhood cancer survivors

A study from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that nearly half of childhood cancer survivors experience multiple simultaneous symptoms of moderate to severe intensity. Health inequity issues, such as lack of education or insurance, were associated with a higher risk of experiencing severe symptom burden.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2022

A promising approach to mitigate major complications of leukemia treatment

Researchers engineered immune cells to control two major complications of leukemia treatment: graft-vs-host disease and cancer relapse. The approach, using a protein called OX40, showed promise in animal models, protecting against both conditions without severely impairing the immune system.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2022

Rising global temperatures point to widespread drought

A new study finds that even a modest temperature increase of 1.5°C will spell serious consequences in India, China, Ethiopia, Ghana, Brazil, and Egypt, with droughts projected to last longer than two years in some countries. Limiting warming to 1.5°C could greatly benefit all six countries, but meeting the Paris Accords is crucial to r...

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalClimatic Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 27, 2022

New article in Cell Reports on measuring scene brightness with visual brains

Researchers in Cell Reports study neuronal responses to bright and dark surfaces, finding that large bright surfaces activate both light-ON and light-OFF neurons, increasing the combined response with surface brightness and size. This challenges the long-standing assumption that only surface edges drive strong cortical responses.

SourceState University of New York College of Optometry·JournalCell Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 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.

Catalytic process with lignin could enable 100% sustainable aviation fuel

A new catalytic process using lignin could enable the production of 100% sustainable aviation fuel, reducing carbon emissions from the airline industry. The researchers successfully reduced the oxygen content of lignin to less than a half-percent, making it suitable for use as a jet fuel blendstock.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2022

New type of spectrometer developed for high-resolution laser heterodyne spectroscopy

A new type of spectrometer capable of simultaneous remote sensing of atmospheric methane, water vapor, and nitrous oxide has been developed. The spectrometer uses a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) modulator to replace traditional mechanical choppers, making the system more stable and compact.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalOptics Express·DateSep 27, 2022

Calcium supplementation in people under the age of 35 improves bone mass

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials found that calcium supplementation significantly improves bone mineral density and content in people under 35. The benefits were most pronounced in those aged 20-35 years, suggesting a potential new window for intervention to prevent osteoporosis later in life.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateSep 27, 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.

Diet high in guar gum fibre limits inflammation, MS symptoms in mice

A diet rich in guar gum fibre has been shown to limit inflammation and delay the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms in mice. The study found that only guar gum significantly reduced MS-like symptoms, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach for humans.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2022

Cluster theme issue on firearms and violence

The article highlights the need for comprehensive, real-time action data to address firearm injuries. It also explores the connection between violence and the carceral state, as well as the impact of state firearm laws on mortality and morbidity rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 27, 2022

Sugary poo could be used to lure destructive plant pests to their doom

Researchers discover that male spotted lanternflies are strongly attracted to the smell of honeydew produced by male conspecifics, emitting specific sex-attractant profiles. This finding may lead to the development of new pest management tools to reduce the population and spread of this invasive species.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Insect Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 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.

Offering healthcare services at livestock marts will help to remove stigma about seeking help among agricultural community, study shows

Research from the University of Exeter found that farmers and auction operators believed putting health hubs in livestock marts helped break down barriers to seeking support. The study also revealed that stoicism, fear of being judged, and lack of availability were significant deterrents for farmers.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2022

Browse, graze, mate: Food and company help animals in captivity

A study of over 15,000 individual animals found that ungulates' diets and mating strategies are linked to stress risk. Animals without constant access to food are prone to behavioral problems. The research highlights the importance of providing suitable conditions, including food and social organization, for improved welfare.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 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.

VHIO-led study unveils predictive biomarker of response to therapy in patients with microsatellite stable BRAFV600E metastatic colorectal cancer

A new predictive biomarker, RNF43 mutations, has been identified as a significant predictor of response to anti-BRAF/EGFR combinatory therapy in patients with microsatellite stable BRAF V600E metastatic colorectal cancer. This biomarker is associated with improved progression-free and overall survival rates.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 27, 2022

16 Journalists from across US awarded aging-focused fellowships

The Journalists in Aging Fellows Program has selected 16 new fellows to produce in-depth aging-focused stories or series in 2023. The projects span concerns such as the financial burden of breast cancer, mental-health challenges of long COVID, and issues facing LGBTQ+ older adults.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateSep 27, 2022

Quantum effects in memristive devices - The MEMQuD Project

The MEMQuD project investigates quantum effects in memristive devices, which could lead to breakthroughs in AI, cryptography, and computation. Researchers analyze fundamentals and applications of quantized conductivity phenomena at room temperature.

SourceINRIM - Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 27, 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.

Casting shadows on solar cells connected in series

Researchers found that shadows on single cells or parallel-connected cells result in similar output current decrease ratios to sunlight. However, series-connected cells experience excess power loss and temperature rise, leading to further degradation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateSep 27, 2022