Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive April 2022


Page 18 of 37

Ag3PO4 catalyst facilitates propylene oxide electrooxidation

Researchers developed an Ag3PO4 catalyst with high selectivity and activity for the electrooxidation of propylene into propylene oxide. The (100) facets of the Ag3PO4 cubes displayed superior catalytic activity due to the polarization of propylene, facilitating breaking of π bonding and C-O bond formation.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Lithium’s narrow paths limit batteries

Researchers found uneven charge distribution within lithium iron phosphate cathodes due to misaligned particles, leading to reduced battery performance. Introducing porosity or aligning particles could potentially improve uniform lithium insertion, enhancing energy density and charge/discharge rates.

Assessing use of awake prone positioning in hospitalized adults with COVID-19

A nonrandomized controlled trial of 501 patients found that awake prone positioning was linked to better oxygenation and reduced mortality rates among those with COVID-19. The study suggests that this positioning technique may be a valuable adjunct to other treatments for patients with severe respiratory symptoms.

Bacterial soundtracks revealed by graphene membrane

A team of researchers from Delft University of Technology has captured the sound of a single bacterium using a graphene membrane. The graphene drum detected tiny oscillations caused by the bacteria's flagella, which can be converted into a 'soundtrack' and listened to. This technology has enormous implications for detecting antibiotic ...

Guiding a superconducting future with graphene quantum magic

Scientists have identified magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene as a promising material for high-temperature superconductivity. Researchers found that nematic order in MATBG originates from the interference between fluctuations of a novel degree-of-freedom combining valley and spin degrees.

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.

Study explores what food sector needs to know about how to reduce sodium

A comprehensive review of scientific literature on sodium reduction strategies in food production identifies five main approaches: salt reduction, salt replacers, flavor modification, physical modification, and functional modification. These methods can help food companies reduce sodium content while maintaining palatability.

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.

Scientists resurrect ancient enzymes to improve photosynthesis

Researchers developed a computational technique to predict favorable gene sequences that make Rubisco, a key plant enzyme for photosynthesis. The study found promise for developing faster and more efficient Rubisco enzymes to increase crop yields and adapt to hot, dry future conditions.

Variable schedules harm workers and businesses

A new study by Cornell University found that variable work schedules lead to higher turnover rates due to economic security concerns, health issues, and work-life balance problems. This increased turnover negatively impacts business performance during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Excess weight almost doubles risk of womb cancer

A recent study funded by Cancer Research UK has found that excess weight almost doubles a woman's risk of developing womb cancer. The study analyzed genetic samples from over 120,000 women and found that markers such as fasting insulin and testosterone increase the risk of womb cancer.

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.

Extreme genetic drift in the Maniq hunter-gatherers of southern Thailand

A recent study on the Maniq population found they exhibit high levels of genetic differentiation, similar to other isolated populations. The researchers also discovered that the Maniq retain a unique hunter-gatherer lifestyle and Hòabìnhian-related ancestry, setting them apart from other Southeast Asian groups.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Regenerative potential of solid bone marrow aspirate concentrate

Researchers have discovered that a new type of solid bone marrow aspirate concentrate exhibits enhanced migratory potential and promotes greater cell growth compared to traditional platelet-rich fibrin. This breakthrough may lead to the development of novel therapeutics for promoting wound healing and bone regeneration.

Genetics affects functions of gut microbiome

A recent study by Cornell scientists explores the relationship between human genetics and gut microbiome functions, identifying correlations between genetic variations and microbiome-associated traits. The research, led by Ilana Brito, uses a novel computational approach to model the distribution of functions and species within the hum...

It’s all in the hiPS

A team of researchers from Osaka University and Kyoto University developed a stem cell-based biomaterial, hiPS-Cart, to treat IVD degeneration and prevent further deterioration. The biomaterial was able to survive and maintain its functionality in lab rats with NP removal, reversing IVF and vertebral bone degeneration.

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.

Tumors partially destroyed with sound don't come back

Researchers at the University of Michigan used histotripsy to destroy 50-75% of liver tumor volume in rats, allowing their immune systems to clear away the rest with no recurrence. The technique stimulated immune responses, preventing further spread and potentially improving cancer outcomes for humans.

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.

Can machine learning help predict disease spread?

A new KAUST study uses machine learning to predict disease spread with high accuracy, dynamically incorporating latest data without human bias. This approach offers a promising alternative to conventional models, providing a more accurate story of the underlying epidemic data.

Global study finds increase in deaths from COVID-19 at the weekend

A global study found that COVID-19 deaths increased by an average of 449 more over the weekend compared to weekdays, with the USA, Brazil, and UK experiencing significantly higher increases. The study suggests bureaucratic delays, hospital staffing levels, and organizational factors contribute to the phenomenon.

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.

When AI companions for lonely people seem a bit too human

A study found that people are more comfortable with AI companions that are voice-based and less likely to recommend them if they appear too human-like. The researchers suggest that the 'uncanny valley' effect may contribute to this preference.

Development of metastable-phase advanced material synthesis technology

A research team developed a novel metastable-phase palladium hydride material with improved thermal stability and twice the hydrogen storage capacity of stable-phase materials. They identified its growth mechanism using atomic electron tomography and suggested a new nanoparticle growth mechanism called multi-stage crystallization.

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.

DIY digital archaeology: New methods for visualizing small objects and artifacts

Two new methods for producing high-resolution visualizations of small artefacts are presented, allowing anyone to create high-quality images and models with minimal effort and cost. The protocols provide detailed workflows for photographic acquisition and processing, enabling replicability and reproducibility in the field of archaeology.

Injectable stem cell assembly for cartilage regeneration

Researchers developed a novel injectable stem cell assembly system to overcome cartilage tissue engineering challenges. The 3D IHI nanoscaffold-templated system effectively modulates the microenvironment and induces chondrogenesis, leading to accelerated repair of cartilage defects.

How bacteria evade bacteriophages in vivo

Scientists discovered that bacteria adapt their gene expression to evade bacteriophages in the gut environment, reducing susceptibility to infection. This finding paves the way for improved use of phages in therapeutic purposes.

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.

Many physicians have misconceptions about e-cigarettes

A Rutgers study found that nearly 70% of physicians report patients asking about e-cigarettes, yet most incorrectly believe all tobacco products are equally harmful. E-cigarettes were more likely recommended for heavy smokers seeking cessation, while FDA-approved medications were preferred for lighter smokers.

Engineers enlist AI to help scale up advanced solar cell manufacturing

A new machine learning-based system developed by MIT and Stanford researchers enables the rapid development of optimized production methods for perovskite-based solar cells. The system has already led to the manufacturing of cells with an energy conversion efficiency of 18.5 percent, a competitive level for today’s market.

Slow and steady wins the race – a tale of molecules dancing in a different way

Researchers have identified a new molecular process called SAP that enables liquids to equilibrate efficiently at low temperatures. This process, which is slower than structural mobility, allows molecules to cooperate and reduce their internal energy, making it possible for materials to achieve equilibrium within a reasonable time frame.

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.

Rilzabrutinib for blood disorder shows promise in phase 1–2 clinical trial

A phase 1–2 clinical trial led by Massachusetts General Hospital has shown promising safety and efficacy results for rilzabrutinib, an oral Bruton kinase inhibitor, in treating immune thrombocytopenia. The study found that 40% of patients experienced a significant platelet response, with minimal treatment-related adverse events.

Unlocking complex workings of the biological clock

Researchers have studied the atomic structures of KaiC, a cyanobacterial clock protein, to understand its role in regulating circadian rhythms. The study reveals that allostery drives the clock, with phosphorylation and ATP hydrolysis cycles working like two gears.

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.

Communication between physicians, patients regarding electronic cigarette use

A survey of over 2,000 physicians found that they often struggle to discuss e-cigarette use with their patients, highlighting the need for improved communication strategies. The study identified key factors influencing physician-patient discussions on e-cigarettes, including patient demographics and medical conditions.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

What physical properties of the crust affect aftershock locations?

Aftershocks form spatial clusters around mainshocks, with rates decreasing further from mapped faults and increasing with strain rate. Hardebeck's study improves models but falls short of capturing clustering density. Future research may incorporate crustal properties for better forecasts.

Nationwide maps of bird species can help protect biodiversity

Researchers developed nationwide maps of bird species to aid conservation efforts, providing fine-resolution data for individual counties or forests. The maps predict bird diversity based on traits such as nesting habits and environmental factors like forest cover and temperature.