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Science News Archive April 2022 - Page 31


Page 31 of 37

Electronic implant reactivates spinal-cord nerves of a patient with neurodegenerative disease

A groundbreaking system implanted directly on the spinal cord has restored blood pressure regulation in a patient with multiple system atrophy-parkinsonian type (MSA-P), enabling them to walk again after being bedridden for over a year. This innovative therapy paves the way for new clinical breakthroughs in treating degenerative diseases.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 6, 2022

National Parks Study: 'Every Kid Outdoors' program is increasing family hiking, but not for everyone

A new study from Brigham Young University finds that the Every Kid Outdoors program is increasing family hiking, with a seven-fold jump in frequency among high-income and white families. However, minority and lower-income families have not seen a similar significant increase in hiking frequency.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Child and Family Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 2022

Report: remdesivir dominated hospital drug spending in 2021

The COVID-19 treatment remdesivir dominated hospital drug spending in 2021, with total spending reaching $576.9 billion. Biosimilars usage increased, saving the healthcare system money, while new drugs like aducanumab and upcoming oncology approvals are expected to impact spending.

SourceASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists)·JournalAmerican Journal of Health-System Pharmacy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 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.

The living legacy of names

Researchers analyze over 2,000 national park names, revealing 52 places commemorating violence against Indigenous peoples and 10 using racial slurs. The study supports renaming efforts to address erasure of indigenous sovereignty.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPeople and Nature·DateApr 6, 2022

New study shows flood risk for Iowa farmland

A new study from the University of Iowa has created comprehensive maps showing flood risk for farmland throughout Iowa. The researchers analyzed nearly 25 million acres of agricultural land to classify the flood risk according to eight scenarios, highlighting areas prone to chronic flooding and low productivity yields.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 2022

New insights into how a deadly intestinal disease in preemies develops

A recent study identifies macrophages and insulin-like growth factor-1 as key players in the development of necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants. The findings offer promise for novel treatments that could promote healthy intestine development in preemies.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 6, 2022

Mini-livers on a chip

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes create mini-livers on a chip to study the immune system's response to hepatitis C infection. The platform enables precise control over cellular interactions, allowing for detailed insights into how the liver interacts with the virus and T cells.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalOpen Biology·DateApr 6, 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.

Climate-warming microbes thrive in drying peatlands

A global study found that certain microbial groups, including nitrifying archaea and bacteria, denitrifiers, and ammonifiers, are responsible for nitrous oxide emissions in peatlands. These microbes thrive in both dry and wet environments, suggesting a link to climate change.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalNature Communications·TypeCase study·DateApr 6, 2022

Data on fired managers’ performance may improve investments

Research suggests that professional investors ignore the performance of terminated fund managers, leading to poor investment decisions. By analyzing the performance data of both retained and fired managers, investment plans can gain a fuller picture and make more informed decisions.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Journal of Portfolio Management·DateApr 6, 2022

Future catalytic converters could give more bang for your buck

A new study suggests that future catalytic converters could have longer lifetimes and need fewer rare materials to operate. Researchers investigated how the performance of rhodium-based catalysts changes over time in the presence of high heat.

SourceOhio State University·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 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.

Vaccine uptake after full FDA approval of Pfizer-Biontech COVID-19 vaccine

The study found a significant association between full FDA approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and increased vaccination rates in the US. Researchers reported a notable increase in COVID-19 vaccinations after the vaccine's full approval, highlighting the importance of regulatory approvals in boosting vaccine uptake.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 6, 2022

Amazon Rainforest Foliage Gases Affect the Earth’s Atmosphere

A recent study by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory researchers reveals a previously unknown atmospheric phenomenon over the Amazon rainforest, driven by plant-foliage-derived gases. These gases condense to form fine particles that cool the planet and seed clouds, affecting precipitation and the water cycle.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalACS Earth and Space Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 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.

The side effects of quantum error correction and how to cope with them

Researchers found that quantum error correction can distort the output of quantum sensors and lead to unphysical results due to non-commuting actions. However, they provide procedures for restoring correct results through post-processing and devising ideal sensing protocols.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 6, 2022

Digital training at home to beat lockdown frustration

A digital training program improved movement behavior, physical activity, and mental well-being in participants, while also reducing anxiety levels. The study, conducted by Goethe University Frankfurt, found that the program was particularly effective when used with professional trainers and regular questionnaires.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 6, 2022

Current measles vaccination targets may not be enough to achieve elimination

A systematic review of 35 observational studies found that current immunisation coverage target of 95% may only be the minimum requirement for elimination. The analysis estimated average MCV2 vaccine effectiveness was 96.4%, indicating that a vaccination level of 95% should be considered a minimum requirement, not a goal.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 6, 2022

Opening up the electromagnetic spectrum

Researchers developed first fully integrated parity-time symmetric electronic system, expanding giga-terahertz research capabilities. The system operates without exotic materials, utilizing standard microelectronic fabrication technology.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 6, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How does perennial grassland cover affect duck nest survival?

A new study published in The Journal of Wildlife Management found that perennial grassland cover affects duck nest survival differently depending on its dominance as a landcover type. In the Prairie Pothole Region, intermediate levels of perennial cover (30–60%) showed no additional benefits for nest survival.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·DateApr 6, 2022

CABI-led study creates first forecasting models targeting Fall Armyworm larval stages for Africa to help fight against devastating pest

A CABI-led study has developed the first forecasting models targeting Fall Armyworm larval populations in Africa to assist farmers in making management interventions and prevent damage. The models were validated using real-time earth observation data and pest occurrence within a farmer's field, resulting in a reduced population of FAW ...

SourceCABI·JournalCrop Protection·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022

New study shows robust increases in atmospheric thirst across much of U.S. during past 40 years

A new study shows substantial increases in atmospheric thirst across the US Southwest, with warming temperatures accounting for 57% of the changes observed. The largest changes are centered over the Rio Grande region, where crops now require more water and can be expected to require even more in the future.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalJournal of Hydrometeorology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 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.

High performance microscopy for non-invasive conjunctival goblet cell examination

Conjunctival goblet cells play a crucial role in tear film stability, and their dysfunction is linked to various ocular surface diseases. A new microscopy system allows for non-invasive examination of CGCs in live animal models and humans, enabling precise diagnosis and treatment of ocular surface diseases.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging·DateApr 6, 2022

Researchers synthesize carbon nanosolenoid with Riemann surfaces

The researchers successfully synthesized π-extended nanographene carbon nanosolenoid (CNS) material with continuous spiral graphene planes, matching the structure of Riemann surface. CNS exhibited special photoluminescence and magnetic properties, including red-shifted emission band and large thermal hysteresis.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 6, 2022

Diversity in U.S. medicine is not keeping pace with population changes, analysis finds

Despite increasing racial and ethnic diversity, US academic medical programs have underrepresented minority groups, with only modest increases in representation over the past four decades. Female representation has increased significantly, but progress in promoting diversity at leadership levels remains stagnant.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 2022

Does this artificial intelligence think like a human?

Researchers have developed a new method called Shared Interest that enables users to aggregate, sort, and rank individual explanations of a machine-learning model's reasoning. This technique uses quantifiable metrics to compare how well the model's reasoning matches human thinking, helping to uncover concerning trends in decision-making.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 6, 2022

Scientists pinpoint what makes brain cells develop in a specific order

Researchers have identified the complete series of 10 factors that regulate the development of brain cell types in the visual system of fruit flies. This discovery opens new avenues of research to understand how brain development evolved in different animals and holds clues for regenerative medicine.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022
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.

Study shows how plants activate their immune system against pathogens in rain

A study by Nagoya University researchers found that plants recognize rain as a risk factor for disease and activate their immune system through hair-like structures called trichomes. This discovery could lead to the development of methods to protect plants from infectious diseases caused by rain.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022

Researchers develop new model to detect and combat lung cancer recurrence

Researchers have identified a process to study circulating tumor cells responsible for cancer recurrence in patients with non-small cell lung cancer. The study models showed that these cells correlated with cancer recurrence, and blocking a protein called MYC made the tumor cells more vulnerable to chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMolecular Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022

Biodegradable gel boosts immune system's attack on several cancers in mice

A new biodegradable gel has been developed to improve the immune system's ability to combat cancer. The gel releases drugs and special antibodies that target tumor cells, slowing their growth and increasing the lifespan of mice. This breakthrough could lead to new clinical trials for human patients in the coming years.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 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.

Hubble probes extreme weather on ultra-hot Jupiters

Researchers studied ultra-hot exoplanets using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, discovering unusual weather patterns, such as rain vaporized rock and intense ultraviolet radiation affecting planetary atmospheres. This research provides insights into the diversity and complexity of extreme weather conditions in distant worlds.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateApr 6, 2022

What are the motives behind cronyism?

A novel experimental design study reveals cronyism is profitable for those who engage in it, driven by beliefs in reciprocity and favoritism. Shared identity motivates even low-quality workers to reciprocate trust with greater effort.

SourceWiley·JournalEconomic Inquiry·DateApr 6, 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.

Biggest study of its kind implicates specific genes in schizophrenia

The largest genome-wide association study identified 120 genes likely to contribute to schizophrenia, highlighting the importance of neurons in the disorder. The study's findings shed light on the genetic basis of schizophrenia and may lead to new treatments.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 6, 2022

A mathematical shortcut for determining quantum information lifetimes

Researchers have discovered an elegant equation to approximate the coherence time of materials hosting spin qubits. The team can now estimate coherence times in seconds using just five material properties, facilitating a rapid exploration of new candidate materials.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 6, 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.

An uncertain future for livestock production in the tropics

A study found that climate change could lead to significant economic losses of $15-40 billion annually for livestock farmers, especially in poor, tropical countries. Adaptation measures such as breeding heat-stress tolerant cattle and relocating animals to suitable regions can mitigate these losses.

SourceInternational Livestock Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 6, 2022

At a melting glacier, a landslide, then tsunami, signal climate-related threat

Scientists detected a seismic signal indicating a massive landslide triggered by the rapid recession of the West Grenville Glacier in British Columbia. The resulting tsunami devastated forest, salmon spawning habitats, and logging camps, killing hundreds of thousands of fish and potentially affecting bears and eagles.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 2022

Study reports potential target and compounds to slow the development of Alzheimer's disease

A study found a shift in the profile of specialized lipid mediators from pro-resolving to pro-inflammatory in patients with cognitive impairment, correlating with severity of cognition impairment. The researchers identified novel mechanisms of brain health and potential therapeutic targets for slowing down Alzheimer's disease onset.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCellular and Molecular Neurobiology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 6, 2022

New treatment removes radioactive barium from nuclear wastewater “rapidly and effectively”

A new process has been developed to remove radioactive barium ions from nuclear wastewater, achieving high adsorption capacity and fast equilibrium adsorption time. The adsorbent uses a sulfonic acid group and exhibits excellent capture ability for barium due to strong acid-base and electrostatic interactions.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 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.

How could changing a long-trodden path boost a company’s digital transformation?

Researchers identified two strategies for altering an organisation's environment, structure, strategy, and leadership to achieve digital transformation. By following a path that offers fewer obstacles, businesses can effectively adopt either horizontal or vertical reconfiguration.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal of Business Research·TypeSurvey·DateApr 6, 2022

Virtual Behavioural Medicine program is a game changer for people living with dementia

A new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that the Virtual Behavioural Medicine (VBM) program successfully reduced the proportion of patients who needed admission to a specialized inpatient unit by 60%. This suggests that VBM is highly effective for managing severe neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia without p...

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeObservational study·DateApr 6, 2022

As number of ICU survivors increase, study validates first tool to utilize caregiver input to assess post-ICU syndrome symptoms

A new study validates the Healthy Aging Brain Care Monitor as an accurate tool for monitoring post-intensive care unit (ICU) symptoms among ICU survivors through caregiver input. The tool assesses both patient and caregiver burden, providing clinically relevant information on physical, mental, and emotional symptoms.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Critical Care·DateApr 6, 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.

Preventing chemotherapy from overstaying its welcome

Researchers at MUSC have developed a device to remove toxic chemotherapy drugs, such as doxorubicin, from the blood after cancer treatment. The device uses heat and an activated carbon filter to effectively remove the drug, potentially reducing harmful side effects.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCancers·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022

In ‘Plant Armor’ crop cover, insects have to navigate textile maze

Researchers at NC State University developed a new textile crop cover called Plant Armor that can effectively protect plants from insect infestation. The design features a maze-like structure that forces insects to navigate through it, making it difficult for them to reach the plant.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAgriculture·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022

How to reduce loneliness: Meaningful activities can improve health, well-being

A new study by Penn State researchers found that engaging in meaningful and challenging activities during free time can significantly reduce people's loneliness and increase their positive feelings. The researchers identified that flow, a state of being fully engaged and focused on an activity, is crucial to reducing loneliness.

SourcePenn State·JournalLeisure Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 6, 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.

Researchers look to licorice for promising cancer treatments

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago are studying licorice-derived substances for their potential to prevent or stop prostate cancer growth. The study suggests that these compounds, such as glycyrrhizin and its derivatives, may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPharmacological Research·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 6, 2022

Common Ground

Researchers found that a third of proposed decarbonization bills passed with bipartisan co-sponsors, while two-thirds passed in Democratic-controlled state legislatures. Bipartisan bills tended to focus on environmental social justice components and expand consumer choice.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalClimatic Change·DateApr 6, 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.