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Science News Archive April 2022


Page 35 of 37

Living sensor research wins federal backing

The five-year grant aims to develop electrobiology techniques that enable applications like living sensors to quickly detect environmental pollutants. The project will involve multiple disciplines, including synthetic biology, protein engineering, soft materials, microsystems integration, and machine learning.

Impact of urbanization on shrews: a city full of personalities

A study published in Animal Behaviour found that individuals from urban environments differ more in their behavior from each other than those from rural populations. This suggests that high spatial and temporal heterogeneity in urban environments may contribute to the development of distinct 'city personalities' among shrews.

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.

Firefighters with PTSD likely to have relationship problems

A new study from the University of Houston finds that firefighters with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more likely to have relationship problems. The research, led by Donald A. Godfrey, discovered a link between PTSD symptom severity and difficulty regulating emotions in intimate relationships.

COVID-19 vaccine not associated with birth defects detectable on ultrasound

A new Northwestern Medicine study has found that the COVID-19 vaccine is not associated with birth defects that are detectable on ultrasound. The study analyzed electronic medical records from a cohort of 3,156 pregnant people who received at least one vaccine dose and found no increased risk of major fetal structural anomalies.

Teens more likely to disengage from school after police stops

A study by the American Psychological Association found that police stops in teens can lead to increased psychological distress, including anxiety, anger, and depression, which in turn can cause disengagement from school. Racial and ethnic minority youth reported more invasive police encounters than white youth.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study finds empowering workers can backfire

A new study found that empowering workers can lead to better job performance and creativity, but only if institutional obstacles are removed. However, when empowered employees face hindrance stressors, they may become morally disengaged and engage in unethical pro-organizational behavior.

Millionaires more risk-tolerant and emotionally stable

A study by researchers from the Socio-Economic Panel and University of Münster found that millionaires are more risk-tolerant, emotionally stable, and open. They also tend to be extroverted and conscientious compared to the general population.

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.

Hospitals rapidly translated evidence into practice during the pandemic

The largest survey to date found remarkable consistency in interventions across US hospitals based on available clinical evidence and national guidelines. Novel communication methods enabled the near universal adoption of dexamethasone for patients requiring supplementary oxygen, within six-eight months of a randomized clinical trial d...

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.

First global amphibian and reptile disease conference

Scientists from around the world gather to discuss various amphibian and reptile diseases, with a focus on conservation and management strategies. The conference aims to identify solutions to mitigate the impact of these diseases on herpetofauna populations, which are currently experiencing alarming extinction rates.

The platinum riddle

Researchers have solved a long-standing puzzle in surface physics, explaining how individual atoms of a catalyst capture molecules to transform them. The breakthrough reveals that both the catalyst and its anchor material assume energetically unfavorable states for a short time to facilitate the reaction.

Trends in hospital prices vary widely across the US

A new RAND Corporation study found that hospital prices charged to commercial health plans increased by 7 percentage points compared to Medicare rates between 2012 and 2019. The study identified large regional variations, with some areas experiencing significant price increases while others saw declines.

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.

Hubble finds a planet forming in an unconventional way

Astronomers have directly photographed evidence of a Jupiter-like protoplanet forming through the disk instability process, supported by long-debated theory. The new world under construction is embedded in a protoplanetary disk with distinct spiral structure and orbits a young star estimated to be around 2 million years old.

People around the world like the same kinds of smell

A study published in Current Biology found that people share similar odour preferences regardless of cultural background. The researchers discovered that the structure of the odour molecule determines whether a smell is considered pleasant or not.

Rate of structural valve deterioration lower with TAVR than with SAVR

The study found that TAVR resulted in significantly less structural valve deterioration after five years compared to SAVR. Patients with structural valve deterioration were at about twice the risk of death or rehospitalization as those without, highlighting the benefits of TAVR in reducing mortality and hospitalization risks.

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.

Pandemic drives use of telehealth for mental health care

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased delivery of mental health counseling through telehealth, with 47.9% of outpatient visits transitioning online by December 2020. Unequal access to mental health care was found among older adults, Black and Hispanic people, and those with lower incomes.

Gender influences the way people cope with alcohol dependence

A study on women-only Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in Brazil found that participants experienced rejection and loneliness due to social stigma. The women-only format provided a safe space for self-expression and reclaimed dignity, differing from mixed meetings where men-focused testimonials prevailed.

Protected tropical forest sees major bird declines over 40 years

A University of Illinois-led study reveals a significant decline in tropical forest bird populations, with 70% of understory bird species experiencing a drop of half or more since 1977. The findings highlight the importance of long-term studies and the need to address the lack of data on tropical bird populations.

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.

Spotted hyenas adjust their foraging behaviour in response to climate change

A team of researchers found that spotted hyenas in the Serengeti National Park adjust their foraging behavior in response to climate change, with a decrease in migratory herd presence due to increased rainfall. Despite this, lactating hyenas successfully nurse their young, suggesting high plasticity in their foraging behavior.

Vegan diet eases arthritis pain, finds new study

A low-fat vegan diet has been shown to improve joint pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, as well as reduce inflammation. The study found that participants who followed a vegan diet experienced significant reductions in disease activity scores, swelling, and cholesterol levels.

Vaccine resistance comes from childhood legacy of mistrust

A new study reveals that people who are resistant to vaccines often had adverse childhood experiences, including abuse and neglect. These early traumas can lead to a legacy of mistrust, causing individuals to view institutions and authority figures with skepticism.

The secret to better coffee? The birds and the bees

A groundbreaking study finds that the combined efforts of birds and bees on coffee plants yield better results than individual contributions alone. Without these winged helpers, coffee yields decrease by nearly 25% due to increased pests, valued at $1,066 per hectare.

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.

April issues of American Psychiatric Association journals cover benefits of medication for opioid use disorder and community-based treatment for people with serious mental illness

The April issues of the American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services feature research on integrating clinical and basic approaches to better understand psychiatric disorders. Studies illustrate the importance of medication in treating opioid use disorder and community-based treatments for people with serious mental illness, ...

Damaged nerve behind athletes' post-concussion issues

A clinical study from Lund University found that athletes with prolonged concussion symptoms have damaged nerves in the inner ear, particularly the vestibular nerve. This impairment leads to balance problems, dizziness, and difficulty focusing, affecting daily life.

Hospital adoption of evidence-based guidelines for managing COVID-19

A survey study found that US academic medical centers have adopted COVID-19 management guidelines into practice, indicating a shift towards evidence-based care. The study's results suggest that hospitals are prioritizing the use of established guidelines to manage COVID-19 cases.

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.

A look into the magnetic future

Scientists at Paul Scherrer Institute have observed artificial spin ice structures aligning with temperature changes, revealing a complex phase transition. The discovery could lead to novel high-speed computers with low power consumption.

Soda tax reduces consumption among boys but not girls

A new study by Cornell University researchers found that taxes on soda reduce consumption among adolescent boys, but not girls. The study analyzed data from Mauritius and Maldives and found that the tax decreased the likelihood of boys consuming soda, but had no impact on their frequency or body mass index.

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.

What’s the skinny on those pandemic pounds?

A large US survey found that adults gained weight during the COVID-19 pandemic due to changes in behavior such as increased snacking and alcohol intake. The analysis of more than 3.5 million adults also showed a 3% increase in obesity prevalence, with significant changes in exercise participation, sleep duration, and cigarette smoking.

Dr. Edward Fry is new American College of Cardiology president

Dr. Edward Fry has been an ACC member for nearly 30 years and will lead transformational cardiovascular care to improve heart health and close access gaps. As the new president, he aims to work with members to drive innovation and knowledge in optimizing cardiovascular care and outcomes.

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.

Leaks after left atrial appendage occlusion heighten stroke risk

A large study found that small to moderate-sized leaks after left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedures significantly increased the risk of adverse events such as clotting and bleeding in AFib patients. Researchers suggest optimizing device placement techniques and using newer devices may help minimize leaks and reduce stroke risk.

Patiromer helps patients stay on optimal heart failure therapy

The study found that patiromer significantly lowers blood potassium levels in patients taking RAASi medications for heart failure. The results suggest that patiromer can be used to control excess potassium buildup in the blood, which is a common side effect of RAASi therapy.

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.

Smartwatch app found to accurately detect atrial fibrillation

A smartwatch app was found to accurately detect atrial fibrillation in nearly 94% of users who followed up with a clinician. The study also screened participants for obstructive sleep apnea and found that those flagged for possible sleep apnea were 1.5 times more likely to have AFib.

Cleaner fuels from CO2 is the promise from the University of Surrey

The University of Surrey has developed a method to capture CO2 directly from the air and use dynamic catalysis to create carbon-negative methanol, which could offset the cost of direct air capture. The project aims to produce a valuable chemical that can help scale up direct air capture technology.

Earliest record of a candidate aurora found in Chinese annals

A recent study published in Advances in Space Research has identified the earliest record of a candidate aurora in an ancient Chinese text, dated to 977-957 BCE. The 'five-coloured light' mentioned in the Bamboo Annals is consistent with a large geomagnetic storm and provides valuable insights into space weather variability.

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.