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Science News Archive February 2022


Page 14 of 40

Vortex microscope sees more than ever before

Researchers developed a vortex microscope that captures detailed motion and rotation of molecules in liquid. The technique provides unprecedented insight into molecular dynamics, enabling the study of diseases like Alzheimer's.

Reducing negative impacts of Amazon hydropower expansion on people and nature

A new computational tool, 'Amazon EcoVistas,' analyzes proposed dam projects collectively for their energy generation and environmental impacts. The tool identifies hydroelectric dam portfolios that meet energy production goals with the least environmental harm, taking into account five environmental criteria and social values.

First study to analyse brain changes associated with juvenile fibromyalgia

A study published in Arthritis and Rheumatology characterizes grey matter volume alterations in adolescents affected by juvenile fibromyalgia, revealing a link between brain region activity and pain processing. The research suggests therapeutic strategies to modulate the activity in brain circuits involved with emotion and language.

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.

A non-invasive way to predict heart attack and stroke

Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in predicting heart attacks and strokes by developing a non-invasive method using super-resolution ultrasound imaging. The technology aims to detect high-risk atherosclerotic plaques that are prone to rupture, allowing doctors to prescribe life-saving interventions.

Uncovering unexpected properties in a complex quantum material

Ta2NiSe5 exhibits broken symmetry, which has significant implications for its use in future devices. The researchers developed a novel technique to probe subtle symmetry breaking in crystalline materials, providing a platform for finding similar properties in other types of materials.

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.

Research roundup: E-cigs aren’t safe

A recent review of e-cigarette research highlights the significant health risks associated with vaping, including lung inflammation and injury. The study found that e-cigarettes can cause negative effects in multiple organs, from the brain to the bladder, and may even increase the risk of lung cancer.

Study strengthens case that vitamins cannot treat COVID-19

A new review of COVID-19 hospitalization data found no reduction in mortality for patients treated with vitamin D, vitamin C, or zinc. However, treatment with vitamin D may be associated with lower rates of intubation and shorter hospital stays.

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.

Nanoantennas for light controlled electrically

Scientists at Linköping University have created optical nanoantennas using conducting polymers that can switch between metallic and dielectric properties. The researchers achieved electrical control of the nanoantennas, enabling gradual tuning by applying external bias potentials.

CROPSR: A new tool to accelerate genetic discoveries

CROPSR, an open-source software tool, accelerates CRISPR experiment design and evaluation by addressing challenges in complex crop genomes. The genome-wide approach significantly shortens the time required to design a CRISPR experiment, reducing failed experiments.

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.

Extremely rare observation of 'tennis-like' vibrations of lead

Physicists at the Polish Academy of Sciences have observed 'tennis-like' vibrations in lead nuclei excited by high-energy proton collisions, a phenomenon previously seen only once over three decades ago. The researchers used advanced detectors to measure gamma quanta and confirm oscillations in the nucleus.

Scientists persevere to show self-awareness is also for some fish

Researchers provide additional evidence that cleaner fish Labroides dimidiatus have Mirror Self-Recognition (MSR), passing the mark test with 94% positive result. The study addresses criticisms by using ecologically relevant marks and testing visual recognition of mirror images.

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.

Illinois musicians, chemists use sound to better understand science

Researchers at the University of Illinois used sonification to analyze data and teach protein folding, leading to a new discovery about protein folding mechanisms. Musicians collaborated with chemists to create audio-mapped visualizations that complemented traditional views, increasing intuition for experts.

How picking up your smartphone could reveal your identity

Researchers found that smartphone app usage patterns can be used to identify individuals with over 30% accuracy. The study analyzed data from 780 people and showed consistent patterns in application usage behaviors on a day-to-day basis. This highlights the potential risks to privacy when using apps automatically collected by smartphones.

Depression and Alzheimer’s disease share genetic roots

A new study identifies common genetic factors in depression and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting a potential causal role of depression on dementia. The research found that depression played a significant role in AD development, with those experiencing worse depression experiencing faster memory decline.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Open-source patient model tops industry standard

A newly developed open-source patient deterioration model is effective at improving care in 12 US hospital centers, surpassing the EPIC Deterioration Index by over 21% in accuracy. The model's development speed and accessibility enabled rapid validation across different health systems.

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.

Algorithm optimizes trade-offs in Amazonian hydropower expansion

A new computational approach reveals opportunities for more sustainable hydropower development in the Amazon, considering environmental criteria like river flow and fish biodiversity. The algorithm minimizes environmental impacts while achieving energy production goals, providing tools for policy discussions on sustainable development.

Scientists reveal how Venus fly traps snaps shut

Researchers at Scripps Research have revealed the three-dimensional structure of Flycatcher1, a protein channel in Venus flytraps that enables snapping shut. The structure shows similarities to other mechanosensitive ion channels found in various organisms, including plants and bacteria.

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.

Exploring Indian genetic heritage in present-day Thailand

A new genetic study found evidence of South Asian genetic admixture in several mainland Southeast Asian populations influenced by Indian culture. The researchers also discovered close genetic links between languages from different families, supporting an earlier hypothesis about their common origin.

What will a CO2-neutral Switzerland cost us?

A study published in Frontiers in Energy Research calculates the costs of a CO2-neutral Switzerland, finding that three different energy systems would require significant investments and increased energy costs. The most efficient option is electrifying the entire energy supply, but this comes with the challenge of storing enough renewa...

New method provides more precise information on types of leukaemia

A new method of optical genome mapping has been developed to provide more precise information on types of leukemia. The technique reveals additional prognostic information compared to conventional cytogenetics in AML/MDS patients, facilitating more accurate diagnosis and therapy.

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.

New DNA computer assesses water quality

A new DNA-based device can detect contamination levels in water, providing a more accurate picture of water quality. The device uses genetic networks to mimic electronic circuits and can detect zinc, lead, and other contaminants at varying concentrations.

A fish story with a human tell

Researchers used an ancient fish, elephant sharks, to gain insights into human biology and how a widely used medication works. The findings show that progesterone receptor activation in humans requires a different mix of hormones and steroids than in elephants sharks, with the latter not inhibited by RU486.

Stanford Medicine study shows differences between brains of girls, boys with autism

A new Stanford University School of Medicine study has identified unique differences in the brains of girls and boys with autism, which may help explain why symptoms differ between the sexes. The research used AI techniques to analyze hundreds of brain scans, revealing distinct patterns that were not found in typically developing boys ...

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.

Bots less of a bother on social media than celebs, study finds

A new study by the University of Edinburgh suggests that social media bots pose less of a threat to spreading harmful messages and misinformation. Bots were found to have very limited relation to users' stance on different topics, making up less than 10% of accounts affecting users' views.

A boost to sulfur metabolism

A recent study by ITQB NOVA scientists uncovered the crucial role of a small marker protein, DsrD, in increasing metabolic activity for sulfate respiration. The findings suggest that DsrD acts as an allosteric activator of the DsrAB dissimilatory sulfite reductase, enhancing energy efficiency in microbial metabolism.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Core strength could help dogs avoid knee injuries

A study of over 1,200 agility dogs found that core strength exercises and balance activities can lower the risk of cranial cruciate ligament ruptures. Dogs that engage in high-level agility events and flyball are at higher risk, while those with certain breeds and age factors may also be more prone to injury.

Monte Carlo simulations bring new focus to electron microscopy

A new method using Monte Carlo simulations enables researchers to study radiation-sensitive soft nanomaterials in organic solvents for the first time. The technique allows for the creation of a method to test the suitability of any solvent, providing valuable insights into these dynamic systems.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Facial recognition technology taken to the next level in virtual reality

Researchers developed a system using facial expressions to manipulate objects in virtual reality environments, outperforming handheld controllers in terms of immersion. The technique has potential applications for people with disabilities, including amputees and those with motor neurone disease, allowing hands-free interactions.

Pitt study shows exercise can help older adults retain their memories

A new study led by the University of Pittsburgh psychologists has found that regular exercise can help older adults prevent declines in episodic memory. The research pooled data from dozens of studies to show that exercising about three times a week for at least four months is effective in improving memory.

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.