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Science News Archive February 2022


Page 1 of 40

Snail competition leads to fewer parasites that cause schistosomiasis

A new study by Emory University finds that schistosome transmission can be highest when freshwater snail populations are low. Snails competing for resources may lead to lower infectivity rates, contrary to typical pesticide-based control methods.

SourceEmory University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

New approach to flexible robotics and metamaterials design mimics nature, encourages sustainability

A new study employs computer algorithms to design multimaterial structures mimicking natural designs for efficient actuators and energy absorbers. The approach enables the creation of sustainable devices with reusable and fully recoverable energy dissipators.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 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.

Drifting apart: New study in earth science frontiers explains the driving force behind continental drift

Researchers propose new dynamic model suggesting thermal energy causes continental plates to drift, but the main driving force is supplied by a gravitational slip of the continental crust and hot mantle upwelling. This model explains why the opening of the Atlantic Ocean is wider in the south than in the middle.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEarth Science Frontiers·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 28, 2022

Discovery of an innate immunological memory in the intestine

Researchers found that innate effector cells can acquire a memory to strengthen gut mucosal defenses against repeated infections over time. This discovery demonstrates a new antibacterial immune defense mechanism and could lead to novel therapeutic approaches to treat intestinal diseases.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Illinois team significantly improves BioCro software for growing virtual crops

Researchers from the University of Illinois have revamped the popular crop growth simulation software BioCro, allowing modelers to use the technology more easily. The updated version includes faster and more accurate algorithms, enabling researchers to try new simulations more easily and link to other models.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·Journalin silico Plants·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 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.

City of Hope and Osel announce live biotherapeutic product CBM588 may enhance efficacy of immunotherapy for patients with metastatic kidney cancer

A Phase 1 clinical trial showed CBM588 significantly improved progression-free survival in patients with metastatic kidney cancer when combined with immunotherapy. The treatment also increased response rates compared to immunotherapy alone, with no significant differences in toxicity.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 28, 2022

Scaling laws in enzymes may help predict life ‘as we don’t know it.'

A team of researchers identified universal patterns in the chemistry of life that do not appear to depend on specific molecules. They discovered scaling laws between the number of enzymes in different functional classes and an organism's genome size, which don't depend on particular enzymes.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2022

Novel method realizes image-free moving object position

Researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science developed an image-free moving object position method using moment modulation patterns, achieving high frame rates of up to 11kHz. This approach reduces data deposit and computation power requirements by over two orders of magnitude.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalOptics Letters·DateFeb 28, 2022

Team uses MRI to image epigenetics in the brain

A multidisciplinary team at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has devised a new approach to 3D imaging that captures DNA methylation, a key epigenetic change associated with learning in the brain. The technique uses standard MRI technology and biological markers already in use in human medicine.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Neurology: Long-term benzodiazepine use attacks synapses

Researchers have discovered how long-term benzodiazepine use damages brain synapses, leading to cognitive decline. Benzodiazepines, commonly used for anxiety and sleep disorders, trigger microglial activation, resulting in the degradation of neural connections.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 28, 2022

Fighting COVID-19 with milk?

A new study found that bovine lactoferrin, a protein in cow milk, is effective against various SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the WA1, B.1.1.7, and Delta variants. The research suggests that bovine lactoferrin could be used as a preventive or post-exposure treatment for COVID-19.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Indian Ocean warming could weaken summer monsoon rainfall in South Asia

Researchers found that Indian Summer Monsoon rainfall was less intense during the Last Interglacial period than in the current warm period, contradicting paleoclimate model simulations. The study suggests that sea surface temperature plays a dominant role in shaping monsoon variability in South Asia.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 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.

Variations of the sum of extreme cold and warm days over China in winter dominated by North Atlantic Meridional overturning circulation

This study reveals that North Atlantic Meridional overturning circulation dominates the frequency of extreme temperature events over China during winter. The research found a significant correlation between AMOC, Siberia High, East Asian Trough, and westerly belt with the sum of extreme cold and warm days in China.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2022

Moffitt researchers identify key genomic alterations and potential therapeutic vulnerabilities in transformed cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

Moffitt researchers have identified key genomic alterations and potential therapeutic targets in transformed cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The study, which analyzed 56 patient samples, found high tumor mutation burden and UV mutation signatures associated with survival outcomes. The research also uncovered novel therapeutic vulnerabilitie...

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

MIS-C diagnosis rare in vaccinated children with no previous COVID-19 diagnosis

A recent survey found that out of 21 million vaccinated children, only 21 cases met the definition of MIS-C. The risk of MIS-C after vaccination is estimated to be 1 in 1 million for all children and 1 in 3 million for those without known COVID exposure. This study provides reassurance on the safety of COVID vaccines in children.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateFeb 28, 2022
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.

New UCI study finds harnessing online peer education to be an effective tool for HIV prevention

A UCI-led study found that using peer-led online communities increased HIV self-testing and reduced alcohol consumption among Latinx and African American MSM. The HOPE intervention program was successful in reaching diverse audiences, particularly those with high rates of HIV cases and new diagnoses.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes & Human Retrovirology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 28, 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.

A potential breakthrough for production of superior battery technology

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a method to produce micro-supercapacitors, which can increase battery lifespan and enable fast charging. The new production process is scalable and could lead to significant environmental benefits by reducing battery recycling needs.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·Journalphysica status solidi (b)·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Now THAT is a wrap!

New research confirms RepelWrap sheds both viruses and bacteria, increasing its utility for interrupting infection transmission. The technology has been filed for patents and is moving towards scaled-up production.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

How a two-faced molecule can silence problematic genes

Scientists create a hybrid technology called heteroduplex oligonucleotide (HDO) that can safely and effectively silence disease-causing genes in certain immune cells. The HDO delivery method has shown promise in improving symptoms of autoimmune disorders and cancers by regulating the function of T and B lymphocytes.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 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.

Overlooked channels influence water flow and flooding along Gulf Coast

A study by University of Texas at Austin researchers found that narrow but deep channels across the coastal plain landscape play a significant role in moving water, particularly during floods. The channel networks covered over 12,000 square miles and were separated into distinct drainage basins.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 28, 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.

Quantum-safe cryptography: crossroads of coding theory and cryptography

Lattice and code-based cryptography offer fresh ideas by reintegration of coding theory and cryptography for post-quantum security. Current public-key schemes vulnerable to quantum computing attacks, promising approaches include McEliece cryptosystem and lattice-based cryptography.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Information Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2022

Donuts and laser beams

Topologists have successfully applied their tools to lasers, enabling the creation of a laser beam whose energies follow a topologically non-trivial loop. This property leads to unique amplification patterns in the light emitted by the laser.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Ring my string: Building silicon nano-strings

Scientists at EPFL have created strained crystalline nanomechanical resonators with ultralow dissipation, enabling the creation of high-purity quantum states. These nanostrings could be used as precision force-sensors, taking advantage of interactions such as radiation pressure and magnetic fields.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 28, 2022

Immunotherapy drug bolsters head and neck cancer treatment

A University of Cincinnati clinical trial showed promising results for patients with intermediate risk head and neck cancer when an immunotherapy drug, pembrolizumab, was added to standard treatment regimens. The study found improved one-year disease-free survival rates compared to historical controls.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 28, 2022

Elephant seal’s map sense tells them when to head ‘home’

Researchers found that elephant seals can determine their distance from breeding beaches and estimate return times based on an internal map sense. This navigation ability helps them arrive at their breeding beaches just in time for the breeding season.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Harmless or deadly? New study examines evolution of E. coli bacteria

Research suggests that genetic material from E. coli bacteria in farm animals may contribute to the evolution of deadly pandemic strains. The study found that ColV plasmids in pigs, cattle, and chickens can increase the likelihood of antimicrobial resistance and extra-intestinal infections in humans.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2022
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 discover genetic markers for predicting seed oil quality

Researchers from Skoltech identified four genetic markers that can predict tocopherol composition in sunflower lines, which is crucial for producing high-quality dressing and cooking oils. This breakthrough discovery will help facilitate faster breeding of new varieties.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalG3 Genes Genomes Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Clinical trial leadership still includes disproportionately low number of women

A new review highlights the need for greater gender diversity in clinical trial leadership, with women making up only 10.1% of committees. Increasing representation will help ensure medications are safe and effective for everyone, and pave the way for more women to present at scientific meetings.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 28, 2022

Bárány Society introduces a new education initiative to improve the care of patients with vestibular disorders

The Bárány Society has developed a comprehensive curriculum to promote high-quality vestibular training for healthcare professionals. The curriculum sets out a framework of suggested topics and skills, covering anatomy, physiology, and physics, as well as history taking, bedside examination, ancillary testing, disorders, treatment, and...

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Vestibular Research·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 28, 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.

Novel strategy proposed to construct bulk pure tungsten with high strength and ductility at low-temperature

Scientists from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science and Xi'an Jiaotong University fabricated a kind of high-performance bulk pure tungsten with high strength and excellent ductility at low temperature. The material features a lamellar matrix grain structure, which contributes to its improved low-temperature properties.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalActa Materialia·DateFeb 28, 2022

Breast cancer overdiagnosis may not happen as frequently as previously thought

A modeling study suggests that breast cancer overdiagnosis may occur in about 15% of screen-detected cases, rather than the estimated 30%. This could spare around 25,000 women unnecessary treatment. Researchers used data from the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium to estimate the rate of overdiagnosis.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2022

Study shows how rural transgender youth are resilient, resistant to oppression

A new study from the University of Kansas found that rural transgender youths use resilience and resistance strategies to cope with discrimination and hostility. These strategies include affirming themselves, maintaining authenticity, resisting oppressive narratives, and taking action to defend their rights.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalYouth·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 28, 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.

OHSU research is latest to characterize potential end of COVID-19 pandemic

A new study from Oregon Health & Science University found that people infected with SARS-CoV-2 develop durable immunity against variants for at least 11 months. The research suggests that immune protection may endure long-term, potentially reducing the need for vaccine booster shots.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Ultrasound scan can diagnose prostate cancer

A new type of ultrasound scan has been shown to detect most prostate cancer cases with good accuracy, potentially replacing expensive and time-consuming MRI scans. The study found that the ultrasound scan missed only 4.3% more clinically important prostate cancer cases compared to MRI scans.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateFeb 28, 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.

Tufts University researchers investigate how opioid use affects offspring in rats

Research from Tufts University scientists finds that opioid exposure in mothers can lead to metabolic disorders and type 2 diabetes in their sons. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that even short-term use of opioids before pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on the health of future generations.

SourceTufts University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Seismic study reveals key reason why Patagonia is rising as glaciers melt

A recent seismic study reveals that Patagonia is rising as glaciers melt due to a gap in the tectonic plate under the region. The study found low seismic velocity and a thinning of the lithosphere above the gap, which is driving rapid uplift.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

New molybdenum alloy achieves breakthrough in strength and ductility

Researchers have created a high-performance molybdenum alloy with impressive room temperature yield strength of 920 MPa, surpassing current market TZM alloy. The alloy also exhibits excellent ductility at elevated temperatures, outperforming previously reported alloys.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalActa Materialia·DateFeb 28, 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.