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Science News Archive April 2022 - Page 19


Page 19 of 37

Urban Seismology Project installs array in Myanmar during COVID-19

The Urban Seismology Project successfully installed a geophone array in Yangon, Myanmar despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project aimed to build geophysics capacity in the nation and monitored a potentially locked subduction zone and major strike-slip fault.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 15, 2022

Changes in vegetation shaped global temperatures over last 10,000 years

Research suggests that expansion of vegetation in the Northern Hemisphere led to a significant warming of global temperatures between 6,000 and 9,000 years ago. The findings align with paleoclimate proxy records and challenge previous models' limitations in accounting for vegetation changes.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 15, 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.

Delivery systems of plasmid DNA and messenger RNA for advanced therapies

Non-viral mRNA and pDNA delivery systems have shown promising results in vaccine development against COVID-19 and are being explored for therapeutic applications. These systems aim to improve upon current formulations by enhancing stability, targeting specific tissues, and stimulating innate immune responses.

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalPharmaceutics·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 15, 2022

Smoking reduces wealth’s tendency to increase life expectancy

Researchers found that wealth was associated with a 19 percentage point increase in survival rates from age 65 to 85, but smoking dominated other factors in shortening lifespan. The study suggests that avoiding smoking is crucial for living longer, regardless of wealth levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 15, 2022

Low jaw strength reflects hard to swallow in old age

A recent study published in Gerontology found that jaw-opening force can be used as an index for swallowing difficulties in older adults. Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University discovered that individuals with higher jaw strength are less likely to experience dysphagia.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalGerontology·DateApr 15, 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.

Upper airway infections in children with the Omicron variant

Researchers investigated Omicron's impact on children's upper airway infections and found a significant increase. The study suggests that as Omicron became the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variant, cases of upper airway infection among children rose sharply.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 15, 2022

A new toolkit to engineer safe and efficient therapeutic cells

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UC San Francisco have developed a comprehensive rule book for designing therapeutic cells with improved specificity and safety. The new receptor system, dubbed SNIPRs, is small enough for cost-effective engineering into human cells and can detect and respond to even small amounts of its target. T...

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell·DateApr 15, 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
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.

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

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
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.

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-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 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