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Science News Archive April 2022 - Page 23


Page 23 of 37

A small mutation can make Zika virus even more dangerous

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered a Zika virus mutation that boosts its ability to replicate and infect humans. This mutation allows the virus to evade protective immunity from previous dengue exposure, increasing its transmission potential.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

What makes an a--hole an a—hole?

A study from the University of Georgia suggests that middle-aged men are commonly perceived as manipulative, aggressive and entitled targets of insults. The research also found that most people believe these individuals are aware of their behavior's impact but don't care enough to change.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCollabra Psychology·DateApr 12, 2022

New platform optimizes selection of combination cancer therapies

Researchers developed a bioinformatics platform called REFLECT to predict optimal combination therapies based on co-occurring tumor alterations. The tool selected combinations that resulted in improved patient outcomes across pre-clinical and clinical studies, leading to increased durable responses.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Discovery·DateApr 12, 2022

On the edge

Researchers at Hebrew University have discovered a new magnetic phenomenon called edge magnetism, where materials only retain magnetism on their edge. This discovery could revolutionize the production of spintronics devices, enabling the creation of ultra-thin wire magnets with curved shapes.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNano Letters·TypeObservational study·DateApr 12, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers outline need for new approach to COVID-19 vaccine testing

Researchers at Rutgers University propose a new approach to COVID-19 vaccine testing by combining conventional and challenge trials. This parallel approach, called Combining Conventional and Challenge trials (CCC), aims to facilitate faster and more accurate vaccine assessment and more effective pandemic response.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 12, 2022

A ‘cautionary tale’ about location tracking

A recent study by the University of Rochester found that mobility patterns can be predicted with surprising accuracy based on data collected from acquaintances, even if individual users turn off their own location tracking. The researchers discovered that up to 95% of an individual's movement pattern can be inferred from people they ar...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 12, 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.

“Promising evidence” that osteopathy may relieve musculoskeletal pain

A review of clinical evidence suggests osteopathy may be effective in managing musculoskeletal disorders, particularly chronic non-specific low back pain and physical function. However, the evidence for its use in children, migraine, or irritable bowel syndrome is limited or inconclusive.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 12, 2022

Grey matter volume could inform treatment decisions for developing mental health disorders

A new study by researchers at the University of Birmingham has identified two distinct brain structure patterns associated with poor outcomes in patients with recent onset psychosis and depression. The study used MRI scans to analyze grey matter volume and found that lower volumes were linked to poorer outcomes, while higher volumes we...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 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.

Geisinger research finds link between sinus disease and bronchiectasis

Researchers found a strong association between chronic rhinosinusitis and non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, with CRS diagnoses preceding bronchiectasis by an average of six years. Early treatment of sinus disease may offer therapeutic strategies for preventing bronchiectasis.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 12, 2022

Machine learning predicts conduct disorder in kids

A new study uses a machine-learning approach to assess risk factors across biological, psychological, and social domains to predict the development of conduct disorder in children. The model correctly predicted CD two years later with over 90% accuracy.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

Hubble confirms largest comet nucleus ever seen

The estimated diameter of the comet is approximately 80 miles across, making it larger than the state of Rhode Island. The comet's mass is estimated to be a staggering 500 trillion tons.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 12, 2022

What is causing the rise in black lung disease?

A new study has found a clear link between silica exposure and severe black lung disease in contemporary coal miners. The researchers attributed the resurgence of progressive massive fibrosis to changes in mining technology, such as mechanized coal extraction devices introduced in the 1950s.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateApr 12, 2022

Cash transfer proposal has downsides for child poverty

A Washington State University study suggests that a cash transfer proposal would increase poverty among single-mother families and triple the number of children living in deep poverty. The Family Security Act aims to cut child poverty by providing monthly payments, but its effects on single mothers' labor supply and income are uncertain.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEconomic Modelling·DateApr 12, 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.

HKUST researchers develop long-term in vivo imaging technique to better understand and treat spinal cord injury

A research team at HKUST has developed a long-term in vivo imaging technique to study spinal cord injury, allowing for repeated and stable imaging without triggering inflammation. The breakthrough enables researchers to track microglia and understand their interaction with degenerating and regenerating axons.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

COVID-19 household transmission is high, with children being a significant source of spread: study

A recent study found that COVID-19 spreads extensively in households, with approximately 50% of household members infected from the first-infected individual. Children were less likely to spread the virus but equally likely to become infected as adults, highlighting their potential role in transmission.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeSurvey·DateApr 12, 2022

Sunscreen doesn’t protect as well as it could: Here is what is missing

A new study at the University of Bath found that a key ingredient is missing from all sunscreens, leaving skin vulnerable to damage. The researchers identified iron-trapping extracts that can improve protection against UV rays and oxidative stress, reducing the risk of aging and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAntioxidants·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 12, 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.

Maladaptive daydreaming may be a better diagnosis for some than ADHD

A new study by Ben-Gurion University researchers suggests that maladaptive daydreaming (MD) is a distinct mental disorder that can co-occur with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study found that MD was associated with higher rates of depression, loneliness, and lowered self-esteem in individuals with ADHD.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateApr 12, 2022

Lack of marshaling ports hindering offshore wind industry

A University of Delaware study reveals a lack of marshaling ports is hindering the US offshore wind industry's growth, threatening to meet renewable energy targets. The study finds that existing and planned ports will be insufficient by 2023 to meet state and federal commitments, with a significant shortfall expected through 2050.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnergy Policy·DateApr 12, 2022

Keeping web-like NETs from clogging blood vessels could improve stroke outcomes

Research in mice suggests that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) can cause further damage to the brain after a stroke by trapping other cells and reducing blood flow. Blocking NETs with a compound called nNIF may protect the brain from this harm, leading to better outcomes for patients.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

AI can predict probability of COVID-19 vs flu based on symptoms

A new study from George Mason University researchers highlights the use of artificial intelligence and seasonality to screen patients and identify the probability of COVID-19. The algorithm takes into account symptom clusters and age/gender differences, suggesting that fever is a stronger predictor of COVID outside of flu season.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalQuality Management in Health Care·TypeCase study·DateApr 12, 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.

The one word charities use that turns off donors

A new study suggests charities use the word 'spend' instead of 'give' to donors to increase donations, as it implies a sense of control over financial gifts. Researchers found people are more willing to donate their time rather than money due to feelings of personal control.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

Keeping apples fresh using clay films

Researchers from Japan and Australia developed a clay film that preserves the quality of fruits like apples by reducing oxygen supply and ethylene diffusion. The film maintained a low respiration rate without depriving the fruit of oxygen, preventing decay.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

Your morning coffee could hasten species’ extinction

The study found that richer nations increase species extinction risk in poorer ones due to global consumption patterns. The impact of a single coffee purchase can contribute to biodiversity loss in distant countries.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 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.

Cell-derived therapy may help repair abnormal heart rhythm

Researchers have discovered that vesicles from human heart cells can repair damaged tissue and prevent lethal heart rhythm disorders. The treatment, using cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs) and their secreted exosomes, showed improved heart rhythms and reduced scarring in animal models.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 12, 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.

“Vertical farming will play a role in future food production”

Vertical farming enables crops to be grown in vertically stacked layers, conserving land and allowing for multiple harvests per year. This method can significantly reduce water requirements and chemical crop protection, while increasing yields through optimal growth conditions and technologies.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe Journal of Agricultural Science·DateApr 12, 2022

Deforestation drives climate change that harms remaining forest

A team of researchers from UCI used climate models and satellite data to quantify the impact of deforestation on regional climate. They found that avoiding deforestation yields carbon benefits in nearby regions due to climate feedbacks, with potential knock-on effects for policy decisions.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 12, 2022

Increased aortic diameter raises risk of heart attack, stroke

A new study found that an increased aortic diameter is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes in both women and men. The study suggests that imaging-based assessment of thoracic aorta size could be considered a risk marker for future cardiovascular disease.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 12, 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.

Lead toxicity risk factors in Philadelphia

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found a correlation between household income, building age, and proximity to former lead smelters with elevated blood-lead levels in children. The study highlights environmental justice issues that disproportionately affect low-income and minority populations in Philadelphia.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalGeoHealth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 12, 2022

Women in England had predominantly negative experiences of childbirth during pandemic in 2020, survey finds

A national survey found that 47% of parents experienced negative birth experiences, with uncertainties about restrictions causing increased anxiety. Good communication from healthcare providers was key to a positive experience, with families reporting reduced levels of anxiety and stress when provided with support.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·TypeSurvey·DateApr 12, 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.

Drug overdose deaths among adolescents

This study examines shifts in adolescent overdose deaths, highlighting the growing threat of illicit fentanyl. Researchers analyzed CDC data to understand the impact of increased fentanyl use on this age group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 12, 2022

Discovery of new phenomenon a game-changer for efficient bioproduction of useful chemicals

Researchers at Kobe University have discovered a new mechanism by which E. coli captures glucose and secretes it as glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), leading to increased production of target compounds. By trapping the secreted G6P on the surface of the bacteria, they developed a novel technique to improve bioproduction efficiency.

SourceKobe University·JournalMetabolic Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

Interconception preventive care and pregnancy complications

A study published in Journal of Women's Health found that preventive visits after an index pregnancy were associated with reduced hypertension in the subsequent pregnancy. Nearly half of women included in the study experienced a complication in their subsequent pregnancy, with diabetes and hypertension having the highest recurrence rates.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Women s Health·TypeCase study·DateApr 12, 2022

Beyond the honeybee: how many bee species does a meadow need?

A new study shows that meadow ecosystems rely on 2.5 to 7.5 times more bee species for pollination than a single plant species does. Rare bees play a crucial role in pollinating plants no one else visits, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 12, 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.

Simulating supernova remnants, star formation in earthbound lab

Researchers create high-power laser and foam ball to simulate supernova remnants and observe compression of molecular cloud material. This experiment demonstrates the potential for laboratory astrophysics to understand star formation mechanisms.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalMatter and Radiation at Extremes·DateApr 12, 2022

Rapid image reconstruction for real-time superresolution fluorescence microscopy

Researchers developed a novel algorithm, 'Joint Space and Frequency Reconstruction' (JSFR-SIM), to accelerate image reconstruction in optically sectioned superresolution structured illumination microscopy. The method achieves 80 times faster execution speed without compromising image quality.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateApr 12, 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.

Low-dose lithium may slow kidney aging

Researchers at The University of Toledo found that low-dose lithium acts as a powerful anti-aging agent in the kidneys by blocking GSK3-beta, an enzyme associated with cellular aging. Studies showed improved kidney function and reduced albuminuria in mice and psychiatric patients treated with lithium.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

Some see Antarctica as ‘last chance’ destination; for others, it’s a backdrop

Researchers found that social bonding and adventure seekers are visiting Antarctica for vacations, anniversaries, and birthday celebrations, rather than just to learn about the land and wildlife. This raises questions about the effectiveness of conservation appeals and educational efforts.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism·TypeSurvey·DateApr 12, 2022

Bacteria generate electricity from methane

Researchers have discovered that bacteria can convert methane into electricity, with 31% efficiency, providing a potential breakthrough for renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in contaminated water sources.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

Hard to change minds when it comes to vaccine willingness

A recent study found that most older adults in Canada are willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, with only a small percentage expressing hesitation. Factors such as safety concerns and previous flu shot history played a significant role in determining willingness.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 12, 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.