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Science News for February 21, 2022


Wildlife camera trap surveys provide new insights into the occurrence of two threatened Annamite endemics in Viet Nam and Laos

Camera trap surveys in six sites across the Annamite Mountains have provided new insights into the occurrence and distribution of two threatened species, the Annamite striped rabbit and dark muntjac. The study identified factors influencing their presence, including elevation and proximity to human settlements.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 21, 2022

Face masks impair nonverbal communication between individuals

The study found that face masks significantly reduce the ability to recognize facial expressions, with accuracy reductions ranging from 10% for fear to 46% for disgust. Individuals with higher social competence and agreeableness tend to perform better in emotion recognition when faces are masked.

SourceMcGill University·JournalSocial Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Why natural killer cells react to COVID-19

A new study by Karolinska Institutet reveals that natural killer cells respond to a specific peptide on the surface of infected cells. This peptide triggers an activation response in NK cells carrying the NKG2A receptor, allowing them to kill virus-infected cells.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 21, 2022

High sensitive detector developed for nitrogen dioxide detection

A novel detector technology has been developed for sensitive nitrogen dioxide detection, enabling fast and accurate measurements. The new instrument achieves precisions of 35 pptv in 1 s and 8 pptv in 30 s data acquisition time, surpassing previous methods.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 21, 2022

Bacteria upcycle carbon waste into valuable chemicals

Researchers at Northwestern University and LanzaTech developed a new gas fermentation process that converts CO2 into acetone and isopropanol. The process reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 160% compared to conventional methods, making it a promising alternative for industrial scale production.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New whirl on mixing liquids

Researchers at Flinders University have developed a novel method to mix incompatible fluids using rapid fluidic flow techniques. This breakthrough could enhance various industries with cleaner and greener technologies, including oil and water attraction, and improve products like fish oil capsules.

SourceFlinders University·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Electronic skin that can feel in real time

Researchers created an artificial sensory receptor that generates spike signals on its own, enabling the e-skin to analyze spatial information and react to external stimuli in real-time. The e-skin's functionality overcomes limitations of conventional electronic skins, which can only process tactile information sequentially.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience Robotics·DateFeb 21, 2022

An overview of neutrinos and their interactions

Neutrinos, produced by astrophysical sources and artificial means, interact subtly with matter due to their chargelessness and masslessness. The study of neutrinos challenges our understanding of particle physics, particularly the phenomenon of neutrino oscillation, where particles transition between three flavours.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateFeb 21, 2022

Distinct structural domains in MUNC long non-coding RNA regulate gene expression

The study of MUNC long non-coding RNA reveals the importance of experimentally determining its structure to identify functional domains. The researchers found that two structural domains, including six common 'hairpins,' were crucial for regulating gene expression and muscle cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Physicists harness electrons to make ‘synthetic dimensions’

Rice University physicists have developed a technique to engineer Rydberg states of ultracold strontium atoms, creating 'synthetic dimensions' that simulate real materials. This breakthrough enables the creation of interacting particles in a controlled environment, paving the way for new physics and material properties.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2022

The body fights infection amidst 'waves' of regulatory CD4+ T cells

A new study from the La Jolla Institute for Immunology reveals that two groups of regulatory CD4+ T cells develop at different times to combat acute inflammation. The early Tregs reduce autoimmune damage, while the second wave shuts down the entire immune response to signal infection clearance.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Beetles in Climate Change

A study found that beetles in German forests shifted their diversity to Red-Ash trees when European Ash trees died due to drought stress. This suggests that non-native trees can provide opportunities for insects during times of climate change.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalSustainability·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Viagra promising as treatment for dogs with often fatal eating disorder

Researchers at Washington State University found that liquid sildenafil can relax the esophagus and reduce regurgitation in dogs with megaesophagus. The study showed a significant reduction in regurgitation episodes and an average weight gain of over 2 pounds in moderately affected dogs.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

COVID-19 genetic risk variant protects against HIV

A COVID-19 genetic risk variant inherited from Neandertals reduces the risk of contracting HIV by 27%. This variant is associated with fewer CCR5 receptors, which can lower the risk of HIV infection.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2022

New highly efficient wave-based acoustics simulation for large architectural spaces could revolutionize acoustic design

Researchers developed a highly efficient wave-based acoustics simulation that can accurately estimate the acoustics of large-scale interior spaces. The method uses a time-domain Finite Element Method to consider frequency-dependent characteristics of sound absorption materials, enabling precise modeling and high-speed estimations.

SourceKobe University·JournalBuildings·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 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.

Gutenberg Research Award for Wil Roebroeks

Professor Wil Roebroeks receives the 2021 Gutenberg Research Award for his groundbreaking work on Neanderthals and early Eurasian hominins. The award acknowledges his interdisciplinary approach, international collaboration, and devotion to paleoanthropology.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateFeb 21, 2022

Plant product shows promise in mouse model of Parkinson’s Disease

A natural product from the dried root of Sophora flavescens, combined with an enzyme inhibitor, has been found to reduce neuroinflammation in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. The compound kurarinone may provide hope for alleviating symptoms of the incurable disorder.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

University of Houston researcher finds a new biomarker and potential drug target for breast cancer

Researchers at the University of Houston have identified a new biomarker, NPY1R, that predicts therapy outcome and has potential as a drug target in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. The study found that NPY1R expression is associated with favorable outcomes in Luminal A subtype breast cancer, but declines in resistant cases.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 21, 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.

What the gut reveals about the heart

A study reveals that changes in gut microbiota and metabolome are associated with cardiovascular disease development, particularly coronary heart disease. The research found that alterations in the gut microbiome occur long before the onset of heart disease, suggesting a potential role for the microbiome in its early pathogenesis.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Insect wingbeats will help quantify biodiversity

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed an AI method to recognize and detect insect species based on their wingbeats, enabling easier monitoring of biodiversity. The method uses infrared sensors to measure wingbeats and group insects into different species without human input.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalEcological Informatics·DateFeb 21, 2022

Chemist targets pesky mosquitoes’ genes

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that female mosquitoes have a higher abundance of tRNA modifications than males, which could underlie factors associated with female reproduction. This study aims to develop new methods of control for mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria and yellow fever.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalInsect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Diseased male livers undergo sex-change

Research by the University of Queensland found that male livers with hepatic diseases undergo a sex change as part of a self-protective mechanism. The study suggests that this transformation may be driven by the female hormone oestrogen, which helps to slow down disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Blueprint for proteins: How mRNA gets its final shape

A team of scientists from Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg and the Max Planck Institute discovered the essential final step in mRNA production. The process involves 16 proteins that precisely control the structure of mRNA, which determines protein function and disease risk.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalGenes & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

A “hot Jupiter’s” dark side is revealed in detail for first time

The study provides the first detailed view of an exoplanet's global atmosphere, revealing a water cycle that dwarfs Earth's jetstream. The planet's night side is home to iron clouds, titanium rain, and winds that whip around at speeds of up to 5 kilometers per second.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 21, 2022

New material offers remarkable combo of toughness and stretchiness

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new material with remarkable toughness and stretchiness, comparable to cartilage. The ionogels created by the team exhibit self-healing and shape memory properties, making them suitable for various applications.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Would micro ecology be damaged by a plastic film after thoroughly kill Bradysia cellarum?

Researchers found that soil solarization effectively controls Bradysia cellarum infestations without harming Chinese chive crops, while also increasing beneficial microorganisms. The study suggests soil solarization as a promising, pesticide-free method for controlling this soil insect.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Study finds vaping has long-term effect on the heart for adolescent males but not females

A new study published in Circulation finds that vaping has a significant and long-term cardiovascular effect on adolescent males, reducing heart function over time. In contrast, female mice exposed to e-cigarette aerosol showed no significant changes in heart function or levels of the enzyme CYP2A5, which breaks down nicotine.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 21, 2022

Hitting the brakes on the cell cycle for the formation of plant stomata

Researchers discovered that a transcription factor called MUTE induces a cell cycle inhibitor SMR4 to slow down the cell cycle, allowing for asymmetric division. A variant with excess SMR4 showed a longer cell cycle during symmetric division, revealing a crucial regulatory mechanism in plant stomatal development.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 21, 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.

Personal genetic risk motivates positive changes in health behaviour, study shows

A new study from the University of Helsinki found that providing individuals with their personal genetic risk for cardiovascular disease motivates them to take better care of their health. The interactive web-tool KardioKompassi helped participants understand their risk and make lifestyle changes.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCirculation Genomic and Precision Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2022

Positive parenting can reduce the risk that children develop obesity

A study by Brandi Rollins and Lori Francis found that early positive interactions with caregivers can reduce the risk of childhood obesity. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 mother-child pairs and discovered that children's early exposures to family psychosocial assets protect against obesity.

SourcePenn State·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2022

What ingredients went into the galactic blender to create the Milky Way?

Researchers analyzed individual stars to identify components of the Milky Way, finding that it consumed smaller galaxies. The study used advanced spectrographic techniques to measure elemental abundances, providing early insights into the galaxy's formation and evolution.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Molecule snapshot by explosion

Researchers at the European XFEL facility have taken pictures of gas-phase iodopyridine molecules at atomic resolution using ultra-bright X-ray pulses. The images were reconstructed from the fragments caused by a Coulomb explosion, providing unprecedented clarity for this method and molecule size.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Tracking the pulse of our nation's rivers, like a Fitbit for streams

Scientists monitoring hundreds of US streams with sensor technology are gaining insights into how freshwater vital signs shift in response to land development and climate change. The data, made publicly available, will help track changes over time and provide a better understanding of the 'pulse' of streams.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2022

350-years-old remains in a Stone Age site in Portugal

Researchers uncovered bone remains of a first-generation African individual from Senegambia, buried in a Portuguese shell midden 350 years ago. The genetic signature and dietary analysis indicate that he was forcibly translocated to Portugal via the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateFeb 21, 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.

COVID-19 patients’ ZIP codes may affect hospitalization outcomes

A study found that COVID-19 patients from high-vulnerability neighborhoods presented with more severe illness and required intensive care, but did not experience higher mortality rates. Researchers suggest policies targeting socially vulnerable neighborhoods to improve access to testing, treatment, and vaccination.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2022

A specific immune cell could prove to be important in the fight against COVID-19

Researchers from Aarhus University have identified a unique immune cell called plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC) that contributes to the body's fight against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The pDCs use two separate alarm systems, TLR7 and TLR2, to recognize viral particles and initiate antiviral and inflammatory responses.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

The truth about patient access and FDA fast-tracking

Researchers found that it took nearly three years for these drugs and biologics to be incorporated into clinical guidelines, highlighting a significant delay in patient access. The study suggests that expedited approval processes are only the first step, and planning ahead is crucial to bring needed treatments to patients.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalBMJ Open·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 21, 2022

New simple method for surveying amphibians: A vital contribution to conservation efforts

Researchers developed a simple and efficient method for surveying amphibians using environmental DNA analysis, which can be conducted by anyone without specialist knowledge. This technique resolves issues with conventional methods such as capture and observational surveys, allowing for more accurate monitoring of amphibian habitats.

SourceKobe University·JournalMetabarcoding and Metagenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Sevoflurane improves sleep alteration in response to inflammation

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba investigated the effect of sevoflurane on sleep disturbance caused by systemic inflammation. Sevoflurane preconditioning promoted significant increases in REM sleep after LPS injection, while postconditioning had no effect.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·DateFeb 21, 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.

The Ross procedure leads to improved survival in adults undergoing aortic valve surgery

The Ross procedure is associated with improved survival and fewer complications compared to biological or mechanical aortic valve replacement. Patients undergoing the Ross procedure have significantly better long-term survival rates, comparable to those in the general population without surgery.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2022

Mobile excitons as neutral information carriers

Researchers have created and detected dispersing excitons in a metal using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, a breakthrough that could enable efficient data transmission. The discovery of mobile excitons in TaSe3 reveals their mobility and potential to revolutionize electronics.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Bone marrow transplant: What is the impact of chemotherapy on the brain?

Researchers discovered how pre-transplant chemotherapy facilitates replacement of brain's innate immune cells by transplanted stem cells. This process involves microglial cell death and senescence, but is not harmful to the brain, as it is quickly replaced by bone marrow-derived macrophages.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Women who suffer from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest are less likely to receive CPR from a bystander

A study of over 56,000 cases across nine Asian communities found that women were less likely than men to receive lifesaving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from a bystander in public locations. In contrast, when cardiac arrests occur at home or in private places, the chances of receiving layperson bystander CPR increased considerab...

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 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.

A news media outlet’s perceived credibility can affect how gun violence headlines are received

A Rutgers study suggests that delivering accurate gun safety messages from credible news sources can shape American attitudes toward gun violence. Researchers found that participants perceived headlines more accurately if they trusted the source, highlighting the importance of credible media portrayal in gun violence prevention.

SourceRutgers University·JournalHealth Communication·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 21, 2022

290 million new city dwellers benefit China's climate balance

Urbanization in China has led to an increase in biomass and carbon stocks, both in rural areas and recently developed cities. The country's afforestation strategy and green policy initiatives have contributed to this positive effect on its climate balance.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Sustainability·DateFeb 21, 2022

Motti receives funding for project on human-centric training for privacy & security controls: Bridging the awareness gap for diverse populations

Vivian Motti, a George Mason University professor, has received funding to develop human-centric training for privacy and security controls. The project aims to bridge the awareness gap for diverse populations, particularly older adults, by characterizing their technology risks and developing educational materials.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 21, 2022

Trust your gut: how your gut microbiota can save you from cancer

A recent review highlights the effects of different intestinal bacteria on colorectal cancer, exploring new therapies for disease prevention and treatment. Beneficial probiotics, such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, exhibit anticancer properties and reduce CRC cell proliferation.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 21, 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.

Global Warming suppresses shrub recruitment in Arctic and Tibet

A new study reveals that global warming has suppressed shrub recruitment in the Arctic and Tibetan Plateau, indicating a tipping point for cold biomes. The research found that optimal climate conditions for shrub growth have already passed in these regions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2022

Risk of second allergic reaction to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that the risk of immediate allergic reactions to a second dose of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines is low among patients who experienced an immediate allergic reaction to their first dose. The study included 1,366 patients and showed no significant increase in severe immediate reactions or anaphylaxis.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2022

Sequencing puts carnivore chromosomes in context

Researchers used Hi-C sequencing to identify three-dimensional chromosome structures in 11 carnivore species, showing conserved chromatin structures across families despite millions of years of evolution. This approach could facilitate identifying related genes and placing them in context.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Newly developed radio-labeled molecule enables real-time imaging of innate immune activity

Researchers at University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center developed a novel PET imaging tool to selectively monitor inflammation and innate immune activity. The new radio-labeled molecule, [18F]4FN, is more specific and robust than existing agents, offering potential for early biomarker detection of immune-related adverse events.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Over two-thirds of UK social scientists warn their academic freedom is under threat, new study shows

A new study found that over two-thirds of UK social scientists believe their academic freedom is at risk, with internationalisation and the rise of authoritarian states like China being major concerns. The survey also showed that academics are reluctant to self-censor when teaching students from autocratic states in the UK.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe International Journal of Human Rights·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 21, 2022

Perfecting the EV battery recycling process

A new study from Chalmers University of Technology outlines an optimized recycling process for electric vehicle batteries, reducing thermal treatment times to just 30 minutes and operating at room temperature. This process can increase the efficiency of metal recovery, lower environmental impacts, and reduce costs.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalWaste Management·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Scientists engineer bacteria to cope in challenging environments

Researchers engineered bacteria to produce proteins that can be broken down when nutrients are scarce, allowing cells to continue growing. This system mimics a biological battery, enabling cells to survive in challenging environments.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Electrifying motorcycle taxis in Kampala, Uganda, shows air pollution benefits

A University of Michigan study reveals that electrifying motorcycle taxis in Kampala, Uganda, can reduce some air pollutant emissions and increase others. The findings indicate that electrification might achieve health benefits by moving emissions away from population centers.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalTransportation Research Part D Transport and Environment·DateFeb 21, 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.

Mortality among adults with COVID-19 being treated for cancer

Researchers investigated COVID-19 mortality in adult cancer patients, finding that systemic treatments and comorbidities played a role in increased risk. The study analyzed 2,500 patients and identified specific tumor subtypes associated with higher mortality rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 21, 2022

New study sheds light on seed vigor control in rice

Researchers discovered a bZIP23-PER1A module that regulates rice seed vigor, improving crop quality. They found two cultivars with huge phenotypic differences, Kasalath and Jigeng88, and identified a novel detoxification pathway to enhance seed vigor.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Male birds have stronger immune system than females, research suggests

A study published in Immunogenetics found that male Kentish Plovers have stronger immune systems than females due to the presence of two active copies of immune genes on their Z chromosome. This may explain why males tend to survive longer than females in this species.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalImmunogenetics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Colombia: Climate protection at the mercy of politics

A new study in Frontiers in Environmental Science reveals the impact of politics on climate change in Colombia. Deforestation dynamics vary significantly depending on municipality area and region, with coca farming predominating in the Andes and cattle ranching in the Amazon.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Science·DateFeb 21, 2022

Peace has led to more deforestation in Colombia

A new study reveals that Colombia's peace agreement has led to more forest loss, primarily due to increased coca farming and cattle ranching in the Andes and Amazon respectively. The research highlights the importance of considering local factors such as land use, politics, and socioeconomics in conservation efforts.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2022

Study identifies key regulator of cell differentiation

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified BEND3 as a critical regulator of cell differentiation, discovering that it represses genes associated with cell fate. This finding has implications for understanding normal development and potentially improving cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

New machine learning model flags abnormal brain scans in real-time

Researchers developed a deep learning framework that can accurately flag abnormalities in routine head MRI scans, prioritizing resources for critical cases. The model reduced wait times for reports from 28 days to 14 days and from 9 days to 5 days, enabling real-time applications.

SourceKing's College London·JournalMedical Image Analysis·DateFeb 21, 2022

Metal mix and match: An unexpected discovery could improve the crystallinity of coordination nanosheets

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have discovered a method to improve the crystallinity of coordination nanosheets by mixing two metal ion solutions. This approach results in higher crystallinity and improved performance in devices such as electronics and batteries. The findings open a new pathway for tuning the functional pro...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

A type of virus present in the gut microbiota is associated with better cognitive ability in humans, mice and flies

A study published in Cell Host & Microbe found that individuals with more Caudovirales in their gut microbiota performed better at executive processes and verbal memory, while those with higher levels of Microviridae deteriorated in brain's executive abilities. Dairy products may be a possible means of acquiring Caudovirales.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Xue Sherry Gao wins CAREER Award

Xue Sherry Gao has won a prestigious CAREER Award to create versatile toolkits for controlling gene expression. Her research aims to develop broadly applicable platforms for gene regulation, with a focus on precision dosing and safety features.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 21, 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.

ZIP codes matter when it comes to severe COVID-19

A new study shows that ZIP code social vulnerability index is linked to COVID-19 severity, with more disadvantaged areas experiencing higher symptom rates. However, differences disappear when patients are discharged from hospitals, suggesting equal access to care plays a crucial role in reducing initial disparities.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2022

Pine needles tell the story of PFAS in North Carolina

Researchers analyzed pine needle samples to track the presence and concentrations of over 70 different types of PFAS in six N.C. counties from 1961 to the present. The findings show a snapshot history of a half century of PFAS contamination, including the introduction and phasing out of new chemicals.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Can machine-learning models overcome biased datasets?

Researchers studied how diverse neural network training datasets impact generalization. They found that data diversity is key to overcoming bias, but also degrade performance when neural networks are trained for multiple tasks simultaneously. The study highlights the importance of designing diverse and controlled datasets in machine le...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateFeb 21, 2022

A study uncovers the ‘grammar’ behind human gene regulation

A research group at the University of Helsinki has discovered the logic controlling gene regulation in human cells. They found that individual transcription factors contribute to gene regulation in an additive manner and identified regulatory elements that function within closed chromatin regions.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 21, 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.

Accelerating melt rate makes Greenland Ice Sheet world’s largest ‘dam’

Researchers have found that the Greenland Ice Sheet is losing mass at an unprecedented rate due to the conversion of gravitational energy from meltwater into heat. The ice sheet's basal melting rates are comparable to those measured on the surface, but without solar energy input, producing a significant source of hydropower.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2022

A unique study finds that tick saliva may offer a path to new therapies for inflammatory diseases

A recent study by Monash University found that tick saliva proteins, called evasins, can be modified to block the activity of important proteins in human inflammatory diseases. The study identified the structural basis of chemokine recognition and establishes a foundation for engineering evasins.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022