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Science News for April 14, 2022


How RNA-binding proteins are regulated

Scientists have identified over 100 phosphorylation sites with regulatory potential on RNA-binding proteins, including RBM20, which plays a crucial role in titin synthesis and heart muscle diseases. These findings provide insight into the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

Going beyond the limit: WVU researcher develops novel exposure assessment statistical methods for Deepwater Horizon oil spill study

A WVU researcher has developed new statistical methods for assessing airborne exposure to oil spill workers, allowing for more accurate estimates and consideration of undetectable levels. This research has significant implications for understanding the health effects of oil spills on workers.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalAnnals of Work Exposures and Health·DateApr 14, 2022

First hybrid quantum bit based on topological insulators

Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich successfully integrated a topological insulator into a conventional superconducting qubit, demonstrating a novel hybrid qubit. This breakthrough could lead to more robust and fast quantum computing systems.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 14, 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.

Structures considered key to gene expression are surprisingly fleeting

A new study from MIT suggests that genome loops, which were believed to play a crucial role in controlling gene expression, are actually short-lived and fleeting. The researchers found that these loops only exist for about 3-6% of the time and last for only 10-30 minutes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 14, 2022

Giant stars undergo dramatic weight loss program

Astronomers at the University of Sydney have discovered slimmer red giant stars, which have undergone dramatic weight loss. The unusual stars are thought to have lost mass due to their stellar neighbors, providing valuable insights into star evolution and life in the Milky Way.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 14, 2022

HIV: The antibodies of "post-treatment controllers"

Researchers identified two types of humoral immune responses in PTCs, one effective in controlling short episodes of viral activity and another lacking strong response. This discovery sheds light on HIV control mechanisms and could inspire novel therapeutic or vaccine strategies.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 14, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vitamin E can boost immunotherapy responses by reinvigorating dendritic cells

Researchers found that vitamin E boosts immunotherapy responses by stimulating dendritic cell activity, leading to improved antigen presentation and enhanced antitumor immunity. Vitamin E treatment also showed promise in combining with cancer vaccines and immunogenic chemotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Discovery·DateApr 14, 2022

From cell fat to cell fate

Researchers at EPFL's School of Life Sciences have identified a critical link between cellular lipids and the determination of cell fate. They found that changes in lipid composition can influence the behavior of cells in response to external stimuli, even if the original cell type is identical.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2022

Program announced for NUTRITION 2022 LIVE ONLINE

The American Society for Nutrition's flagship online meeting will explore cutting-edge research in nutrition science, clinical topics and policy issues. Attendees can access scientific sessions, virtual abstract presentations and more to stay updated on the latest developments.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateApr 14, 2022

Drug reduced frequency of breathing pauses in sleep apnea

A new University of Gothenburg study has found that a drug treatment can reduce the frequency of breathing pauses in sleep apnea by an average of over 20 per hour. The treatment, which involves carbonic anhydrase inhibition, showed promising results with minimal side effects.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 14, 2022

Researchers assessed the likelihood of sleep disorders after COVID-19

Researchers found high levels of mood disturbances and sleep disorders among COVID-19 patients, with increased fatigue increasing the risk of anxiety and depression. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health issues in COVID-19 recovery.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalNeuroscience and Behavioral Physiology·DateApr 14, 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.

The link between transit use and early Covid cases

Researchers found a significant association between high public transportation usage and higher per capita Covid incidence in the US. The study controlled for factors like education, poverty levels, and household crowding, suggesting that transit could have been an important factor in early pandemic spread.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 2022

A marker’s felt nib proves to be an excellent medical sampler

A new type of sampler using felt nibs from pens has been developed for collecting biological samples, offering longer storage life and ease of use. This technology has potential applications in space exploration and medical settings.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalActa Astronautica·DateApr 14, 2022

How to make health research more relevant to patients and veterans? Make them partners in the research process

The special issue suggests that involving patients and stakeholders in all aspects of clinical research can make studies more relevant and useful to those who need the evidence. The supplement highlights the benefits of engagement, including improved study feasibility, relevance, and quality. It also explores barriers and facilitators ...

SourcePatient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 14, 2022

Examining safety of 3 doses of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines

A study of 48,000 individuals found that third-dose vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 with mRNA vaccines was associated with increased reporting of low-severity adverse events. However, there was no significant increase in the reporting of severe adverse events.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 14, 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.

Chlorinated water supplies don’t disturb healthy gut microbiomes in young children

A recent study published in Nature Microbiology found that chlorine water treatment does not disrupt the normal population of beneficial bacteria in children's developing gut microbiomes. The study suggests that chlorination can actually help reduce disease incidence and limit antibiotic use while keeping microbiomes healthy.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 14, 2022

How mechanical stimuli trigger cellular signalling

Scientists have discovered that mechanical stimuli play a crucial role in activating adhesion GPCRs, which transmit signals via G proteins. The study provides insight into the functional nature of mechanosensitive receptors and has implications for developing future forms of therapy.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

The shape of things to come: tropical birds are changing because of us

Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalConservation Biology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 2022

Data from new CDC study reveal key trends in US healthcare personnel COVID-19 exposures

A CDC study published in AJIC found that healthcare personnel (HCPs) diagnosed with COVID-19 were most likely to be exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in their workplaces as cases increased in their communities. The study suggests improved infection prevention and control measures are needed in occupational settings.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 14, 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.

Food insecurity doubled likelihood of foregoing or delaying medical care during first year of COVID-19 pandemic in U.S.

A survey found that individuals experiencing food insecurity were twice as likely to delay or forego medical care due to cost concerns. Food insecurity disproportionately affected racial and ethnic minority groups, low-income individuals, and those who lost their jobs or income.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 14, 2022

Golden wedding for molecules

Researchers at Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology have discovered a new chemical synthesis method that forms stable benzene rings on a gold surface. This method, called the 'dry' method, avoids toxic byproducts and allows for the observation of molecular reactions in real-time.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Your mental health may impact your chances of breakthrough COVID

A new study found that people with psychiatric conditions, especially those over 65, have a higher risk of breakthrough COVID. The researchers tracked data from over 250,000 VA patients and found increased risks for breakthrough infections among those with substance abuse, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateApr 14, 2022

Vax now or vax later – what do parents think of mandatory vaccination?

A study of 1001 parents found that financial incentives and penalties were the most influential factors in their decisions. Parents preferred schemes offering direct financial rewards, compensation schemes, and mandated vaccinations for children over two years old.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 2022

Racial and ethnic disparities in telemedicine usage persist during pandemic

A new study led by the University of Houston College of Medicine found that racial and ethnic disparities persisted in telemedicine usage during the pandemic. African Americans were 35% less likely to use telemedicine compared to whites, while Hispanics were 51% less likely. The digital divide was a major factor, with limited access to...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 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.

National Cheng Kung University researchers present new solution for wastewater remediation

Researchers have developed an eco-friendly and reusable solution for removing toxic synthetic dyes from wastewater using nanocomposite-based hydrogels. The new material, made from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and graphene oxide, demonstrates high adsorption capacities and retains its effectiveness even after multiple cycles of use.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateApr 14, 2022

Moving away from genetic continental ancestry categories in research and medicine

The article highlights the need to move beyond continental ancestry categories in research and medicine, as they can perpetuate medical stereotypes and exacerbate health disparities. Instead, researchers are adopting a multidimensional approach to genetic ancestry, one that reflects continuous variation and historical depth.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2022

Achieving higher performance with potassium ion battery

Researchers from Tsinghua University Press have developed a potassium ion battery using MXene compounds, demonstrating outstanding performance and high power density. The battery outperforms traditional lithium-ion batteries, maintaining nearly full capacity after 30,000 cycles.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateApr 14, 2022

Graphene-hBN breakthrough to spur new LEDs, quantum computing

Researchers at University of Michigan develop scalable method to grow single layers of hexagonal boron nitride on graphene, paving the way for high-efficiency LEDs and quantum computing applications. The process produces large sheets of high-quality hBN, enabling the creation of deep-UV LEDs with potential applications in lasers, air p...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 14, 2022

Light amplification accelerates chemical reactions in aerosols

Research at ETH Zurich found that light amplification accelerates photochemical processes in aerosols by two to three times, leading to changes in atmospheric properties. This effect must be considered in climate models to improve their accuracy.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 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.

For climate change mitigation, bipartisan politics can work

A CU Boulder study found that bipartisanship can help create working climate mitigation strategies in state-level contexts. Bipartisan or Republican-led bills favored financial incentives for renewable energy and expanded consumer choices, while Democrat-led bills restricted choice with mandatory renewable energy standards.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalClimatic Change·DateApr 14, 2022

Seafloor spreading has been slowing down

Researchers found that seafloor spreading rates have slowed down globally over the past 19 million years, with an average slowdown of 40%. This decrease is linked to increased friction between colliding tectonic plates and may be driven by subduction zones. The study's findings could help contextualize long-term changes in the atmosphere.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 14, 2022

Paleobiology: Rare beetle larva in amber

Scientists have found the first ever riffle beetle larva in Baltic amber, revealing unique characteristics that suggest oxygen-rich rivers existed in the area. The discovery provides valuable insights into the ecosystem of the Baltic amber forest, which covered northern Europe 33-38 million years ago.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 14, 2022

Open sharing of biotechnology research – transparency versus security

A recent study published in PLOS Biology explores the intersection of open science practices and biosecurity risks, proposing solutions to mitigate catastrophic misuse. The authors argue that controlling access to research materials and software is necessary to prevent the spread of risky information.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 14, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Lies that 'might' eventually come true seem less unethical

A new study published by the American Psychological Association found that people are more likely to forgive and spread misinformation if they believe it might become true in the future. Participants imagined how false statements could eventually become true, making them less likely to rate the statement as unethical.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateApr 14, 2022

Management researchers prescribe possible remedy in opioid misuse

A decision-support framework was developed by management science researchers to help clinicians make informed decisions about opioid prescribing. The framework incorporates multiple factors, including recovery time, pain intensity, and patient history, to provide a quantitative model of the prescribing process.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalDecision Analysis·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 14, 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.

The opportunity cost of conservation

Researchers from Arizona State University developed a study to balance biodiversity goals with limited economic resources in Colombia. The team created a prioritization map that targets conservation actions towards regions where ecological benefits are high and economic impacts are low.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·TypeCase study·DateApr 14, 2022

Mommy says easy does it

A study by Kyoto University researchers reveals that human fetuses develop slower shoulder growth before birth, alleviating complications during delivery. This adaptation allows for a safer passage through the birth canal, reconciling the incompatibility between wide shoulders and narrow pelvis.

SourceKyoto University·DateApr 14, 2022

MAGIC telescopes observe nova explosion

The MAGIC telescopes detected gamma rays with energies of 250 gigaelectronvolts from the RS Ophiuchi nova, a hundred billion times more energetic than visible light. This suggests that nova outbursts are a source of cosmic rays, specifically accelerated protons and nuclei of hydrogen atoms.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Physics·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 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.

Scientists find vitamin K2 repairs nerve cells via mitochondrial quality control loop

Scientists discovered vitamin K2's novel function in regulating mitochondrial membrane potential and alleviating oxidative stress, repairing damaged mitochondria and inhibiting nerve cell damage caused by 6-OHDA. Vitamin K2 may play a role in preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNutrients·DateApr 14, 2022

Smallest earthquakes ever detected in micron-scale metals

Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University detected smallest earthquakes in micron-scale metals, exhibiting characteristics similar to seismic events. The findings reveal a two-level structure of strain bursts and demonstrate the correlation between acoustic signals and plastic deformation.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 14, 2022

Scientists identify novel approach to preventing seizures

Researchers have identified a potential method of preventing damaging seizure activity by restoring the integrity of blood vessels in the brain. This breakthrough could hold promise for treating patients who are currently non-responsive to anti-seizure medications.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

Investigating the connections between medicaid and cancer survival

A recent study by Cathy Bradley found that Medicaid patients with continuous coverage have better cancer survival rates compared to those without. Conversely, screening programs for low-income women may not be as effective as general insurance coverage.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention·DateApr 14, 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.

Huge Amazon swamp carbon stores under threat, study says

Scientists have mapped the first data-driven peat thickness models of Peru's tropical peatlands, revealing an area twice as large as previously estimated, storing around 5.4 billion tonnes of carbon. Urgent protection is needed to prevent carbon gas emissions from decomposing peat swamps in lowland Peruvian Amazonia.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 14, 2022

A drug that cures alcoholism may be the next anti-anxiety medication

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered that disulfiram inhibits FROUNT protein and chemokine signaling pathways, reducing anxiety levels in mice. The study suggests a potential breakthrough anti-anxiety medication with safe and effective treatment for elderly patients suffering from anxiety and insomnia.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

Brick-snapping soft hydrogel actuator inspired by plant cell turgor

Researchers created a hydrogel actuator inspired by plant cell turgor pressure, boasting an actuation force of 730 newtons, 3 orders of magnitude higher than existing actuators. The actuator enables rapid construction of complex structures in minutes, with applications in soft robotics, tunable optics, and biomedicine.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2022

Easy and high-throughput model provided for evaluating efficiency of photodynamic agent

A new photodynamic agent, BCQDs, has been developed using a simple hydrothermal method from broccoli biomass. The material exhibits high photostability and generates singlet oxygen effectively under irradiated light. This work introduces a rapid and high-throughput screening model for future PDT research.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateApr 14, 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.

A multi-institutional research team finds declining nitrogen availability in a nitrogen-rich world

A multi-institutional team finds that nitrogen insufficiency is a growing concern worldwide due to increased demand for nitrogen by plants and microbes. Declining nitrogen availability can slow plant growth and affect the food chain, while also constraining carbon storage and contributing to global warming.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 14, 2022

Getting under our skin

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have created spatial maps that show how melanoma cells and immune cells interact as a tumor develops. The maps, which offer insights into the early events in melanoma, reveal signs of immunosuppression and may aid in understanding how to prevent or treat the disease.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 14, 2022

Methionine restriction may improve aggressive brain cancer prognosis in children

A study from the University of Pittsburgh found that methionine restriction can slow down the growth of difficult-to-treat brain tumors in children, known as diffuse midline gliomas. The researchers discovered that these tumors are uniquely dependent on methionine, an amino acid, and that depleting it can repress cancer cell growth.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Cancer·DateApr 14, 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.

COVID-19: Vaccination greatly reduces infectious viral load

Researchers found that vaccination greatly reduces the infectious viral load caused by COVID-19 variants Delta and Omicron. However, boosted individuals showed a significant reduction in viral load compared to unvaccinated people. The study highlights the importance of updated knowledge for combating new variants.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Medicine·TypeNews article·DateApr 14, 2022

Moffitt researchers identify key characteristics of immune cells in ovarian cancer

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have discovered that tissue-resident memory T cells are crucial for recognizing tumor cells in ovarian cancer. These T cells arise from circulating T cells and undergo a differentiation process to target cancer cells, providing a potential roadmap for improved immunotherapy options.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

Gaming the known and unknown via puzzle solving

Researchers develop a new AI agent that uses four strategies to solve single-agent stochastic puzzles like Minesweeper, achieving comparable performance to state-of-the-art studies. The approach defines solvability in this context and establishes the boundary between puzzle-solving and game-playing paradigms.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalKnowledge-Based Systems·DateApr 14, 2022

AI can improve teacher training

A study found that AI-assisted adaptive feedback significantly improved pre-service teachers' diagnostic reasoning skills through simulation-based learning. This promising method adds value to the advancement of complex skills, particularly in large courses like teacher education.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalLearning and Instruction·DateApr 14, 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.

New approach can predict pollution from cooking emissions

Scientists have developed a new approach to predict pollution from cooking emissions by analyzing the behavior of oleic acid nanostructures. By identifying the molecular properties that control their transformation in the atmosphere, researchers can better understand and model the impact of cooking aerosols on human-made climate change.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 14, 2022

Attitudes, beliefs associated with COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy

A recent study examined COVID-19 vaccine attitudes among pregnant women, finding associations with maternal anxiety, trust in healthcare providers, and socioeconomic status. The research provides valuable information for healthcare providers and policymakers seeking to improve vaccination rates during pregnancy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 14, 2022

New study shows increase in black lung disease in coal miners

A new study has found higher levels of silica dust in the lung tissue of contemporary coal miners compared to previous generations, providing a rationale for the Mine Safety and Health Administration to develop a more protective occupational standard for silica. The study suggests that changing mining practices, which generated more si...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 14, 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.

Researchers find declining nitrogen availability in a nitrogen rich world

Researchers found evidence of declining nitrogen availability in various ecosystems, including grasslands and forests, due to multiple environmental changes. The decline is linked to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and reduced plant growth, with implications for the global carbon cycle.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2022

Factors including extreme winds, topography and vegetation influenced the severity of burns from Oregon's devastating 2020 megafires

A study by Portland State University researchers found that extreme winds were the primary driver of the devastating 2020 Oregon megafires, but topography and vegetation structure also significantly influenced burn severity. Younger trees and low canopy height were particularly susceptible to high mortality rates.

SourcePortland State University·JournalFire·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 14, 2022

Energy-burning brown fat less active in boys with obesity

A study at McMaster University found that brown adipose tissue (BAT) is less active in boys with obesity compared to their normal-weight peers. The research team used MRI scans to measure BAT activity in response to a cold stimulus, revealing reduced activity in obese boys.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalDiabetes·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 14, 2022

Scientists develop indoor-active photocatalyst for antiviral coating against various variant types of novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2

Researchers developed a solid-state photocatalyst using TiO2 and CuO nanoclusters to inactivate various variants of SARS-CoV-2. The material is effective under both darkness and indoor light, making it suitable for reducing COVID-19 infection risk in indoor environments.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Predicting the most stable boron nitride structure with quantum simulations

A team of researchers has provided evidence to settle the debate on the relative stabilities of boron nitride's structures using a state-of-the-art quantum simulation method. The study found that hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is the most stable structure, followed by rhombohedral (rBN), zinc-blende (cBN), and wurtzite (wBN).

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateApr 14, 2022

Association of psychiatric disorders with SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infection

A study of 263,000 fully vaccinated Veterans Affairs patients found an association between psychiatric disorder diagnoses and increased incidence of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections. The findings suggest that individuals with pre-existing psychiatric conditions may be more susceptible to severe COVID-19 outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 14, 2022

A pre-Easter surprise: massive recall of chocolate products due to outbreak of monophasic Salmonella Typhimurium in 10 European countries

A multistate outbreak in 10 European countries linked to chocolate products has been linked to monophasic Salmonella Typhimurium, primarily affecting young children. The outbreak strain demonstrated a multidrug-resistant profile, highlighting the importance of including uncommon AMR profiles in early international communications.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 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.

New research highlights the role of green spaces in conflict

Researchers found that green spaces were used as a tool for control and social cohesion, reducing instability in regions. The study highlights the potential of landscape design as a nonviolent means of subduing resistance from local populations.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Architectural Education·TypeCase study·DateApr 14, 2022

Study shows memory is formed through rewiring of global network among pre-existing local neuronal ensembles

Researchers found that neuronal ensembles in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex existed before memory acquisition, but developed through experience in the hippocampus. The study also revealed that ensemble synchrony across brain regions was particularly strong during transient bursts of activity, suggesting a role in memory consolidation.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

UK invests to modernize polar science

The UK is investing £290 million in upgrading aircraft facilities to facilitate easy transportation to Antarctic research stations. This investment is part of the £670 million total investment in modernizing polar science research facilities, ensuring the UK remains a world leader in the field until at least 2045.

SourceUK Research and Innovation·DateApr 14, 2022