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Science News Archive February 2022


Page 5 of 40

On the move: Ancient DNA illuminates early Stone Age social networks

Researchers analyzed ancient human DNA to discern ancestral relationships across sub-Saharan Africa, finding evidence of widespread genetic mixing and exchange along complex social networks that stretched thousands of miles. The study provides the first genetic evidence of major demographic changes among hunter-gatherer populations in ...

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Prenatal exposure to phthalates may affect infants’ health

A recent study found that prenatal exposure to phthalates in maternal and cord blood may affect birth outcomes in infants, with potential estrogenic effects in females and anti-androgenic effects in males. Higher levels of phthalates were also associated with smaller head circumference in all infants.

Environmental DNA analysis to manage fecal contamination

A team of researchers has developed a new method using environmental DNA analysis to track the source of fecal contamination in surface water. By analyzing specific DNA sequences, they can identify the main contributors to pollution and potentially pinpoint areas with faulty wastewater treatment infrastructure or poor manure management.

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.

Entanglement unlocks scaling for quantum machine learning

A new theorem shows that quantum entanglement eliminates exponential overhead in training quantum neural networks, enabling scalability and reducing data requirements. This breakthrough gives hope for a quantum speedup, where quantum machines outperform classical counterparts.

Researchers to study possible links between fracking, water contaminants

A new grant from HEI Energy will allow researchers to explore possible links between fracking and water contaminants in southwestern Pennsylvania. The team will examine over 7,000 water samples for 40 diverse chemical signatures to identify if contaminants originated from the fracking process or legacy resource extraction.

‘Seeing’ non-uniformities in 2D materials may lead to new medical sensors

Researchers have developed a novel approach to detect non-uniformities in 2D materials, enabling the creation of new medical sensors that can detect cancer treatment drugs like doxorubicin. The sensor material combines multiple signals from graphene and molybdenum disulfide to accurately measure analyte concentration.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A new platform for customizable quantum devices

Scientists develop a new framework for creating versatile quantum devices by fine-tuning molecular qubits. This breakthrough enables tailored quantum systems with improved control over spin and photon properties.

Does severe COVID-19 affect pregnancy outcomes?

A recent study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica has found that severe COVID-19 in pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of adverse outcomes, including preterm birth and stillbirths. The research highlights the importance of vaccination against severe disease to protect both mothers and babies.

Deep learning poised to improve breast cancer imaging

Researchers developed a new deep learning algorithm that allows for real-time reconstruction of images combining optical and magnetic resonance imaging data. The algorithm, Z-Net, enables faster image generation and can be trained with simulated data, improving breast cancer detection.

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.

Researchers predict population trends of birds worldwide

A study published in Ibis used machine learning to predict population trends of 801 bird species worldwide, estimating nearly half are declining. Fragmented populations, particularly non-migratory birds in tropical forests, were found to be the top predictor of population declines globally.

How ads with dogs and cats affect consumer behavior

The study found that exposure to dogs makes consumers more promotion-focused, while exposure to cats makes them more cautious. This effect persists even in pet-unrelated domains, influencing decision-making and judgment.

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.

Revealing the function of Mkx in periodontal ligament homeostasis

A study published at Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that Mkx regulates cellular heterogeneity and gene expression in the PDL, revealing its importance in homeostasis. The results showed that a deficiency of Mkx promotes ossification in the PDL and suggests a compensatory mechanism via Scx to maintain homeostasis.

Researchers at the GIST develop design scheme for fiber reinforced composites

Researchers at GIST have developed a new approach for designing fiber reinforced composites, which can simultaneously optimize the macrostructure and microscale fiber densities. This method, based on multiscale topology optimization, enables the creation of functionally graded composites with improved strength-to-weight ratios, benefit...

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.

The algebra of neurons

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence discovered how a specific type of neuron can multiply two incoming signals in fruit flies. This finding provides insight into the algebra of neurons, which underlies various brain processes such as sound localization and visual motion detection.

University of Oxford researchers create largest ever human family tree

Researchers from the University of Oxford's Big Data Institute have created a single genealogy tracing the ancestry of all humans, combining genome sequences from eight databases and 3,609 individual genomes. The study successfully recaptured key events in human evolutionary history, including migration out of Africa.

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.

The gatekeeper of the protein factory

An international research team found that the protein complex NAC acts as a 'gatekeeper' controlling protein transport to the endoplasmic reticulum. NAC prevents non-specific binding of SRP to ribosomes, ensuring only proteins with ER destination are transported. This sorting mechanism ensures cellular function and viability.

More sensitive X-ray imaging

Researchers at MIT have improved the efficiency of scintillators by up to tenfold and potentially even a hundredfold by creating nanoscale configurations. This could lead to better medical diagnostic X-rays, reduced dose exposure, and improved image quality.

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 decade of women’s heart health, reexamined

A new collection of scientific articles reviews the past decade of research on women's cardiovascular health, identifying key differences between men and women. The studies highlight critical gaps in current knowledge and emphasize the need for a more tailored approach to diagnosing and treating heart disease and stroke risk in women.

The impacts from using genetic testing to track down relatives

Researchers surveyed over 26,000 genetic genealogy participants about their experiences discovering previously unknown relatives. Most reported learning the identity of at least one relative, with some finding close family ties and others experiencing life-changing discoveries.

Child abuse actually decreased during COVID. Here's why

Research by Robert Sege and Allison Stephens found that emergency department visits, abusive head trauma admissions, and child welfare reports decreased during the pandemic. The authors attribute this decline to increased support for families, including financial assistance, paid parental leave, and other social factors.

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.

Live wire: new research on nanoelectronics

A study by Arizona State University shows that certain proteins can act as efficient electrical conductors, outperforming DNA-based nanowires in conductance. The protein nanowires display better performance over long distances, enabling potential applications for medical sensing and diagnostics.

Fingertip sensitivity for robots

A team of scientists developed a soft haptic sensor that can accurately estimate contact points and forces using computer vision and deep neural networks. The sensor is sensitive enough to detect even tiny forces and detailed object shapes.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

A first glimpse of the human brain’s drains

Researchers at MUSC and University of Florida successfully visualize the complete human brain lymphatic system in living humans using a new non-invasive MRI technique. This breakthrough enhances our understanding of brain function and may provide insights into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

AI deployed in the war on pedophilia

A new AI-based app developed by Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg allows individuals with pedophilic tendencies to access initial consultations and remote treatment while maintaining anonymity. The technology, called AnonymPrevent, aims to increase acceptance of preventative treatment against child abuse.

How much energy does a dolphin use to swim?

A new study provides a reliable way to estimate energy costs in dolphins by using overall dynamic body acceleration (ODBA), an integrated measure of all body motions during swimming. The study found significant correlation between oxygen consumption and body acceleration, suggesting ODBA can be a proxy for estimating cost of locomotion.

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.

February research news from the Ecological Society of America

Researchers tracked a Mongolian gazelle traveling over 18,000 km, while new studies on raccoon movement inform improved vaccination strategies against wildlife disease. In contrast, urban bird species exhibit varying body weights and lifespans based on city characteristics.

Researchers call for a patient-centered approach to treating obesity

A recent commentary argues that treating obesity should prioritize compassionate care and focus on health rather than weight. The researchers aim to eliminate the false dichotomy between eating and weight disorders, promoting a patient-centered approach that screens for and addresses eating disorders throughout treatment.

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.

Researchers examine intersectionality in cancer care

A systematic review found that intersectional identities are associated with lower diagnostic screening and reception of preventative services. Patients with these identities face increased distrust of the healthcare system and negative cancer outcomes.

Fight or flight? How birds are helping to reveal the mysteries of evolution

A study by UMass Amherst researchers reveals a negative correlation between birds' ability to fly and their willingness to fight. The findings suggest that developing wings instead of bony spurs was driven by both sexual and natural selection, leading to the remarkable diversity of bird species we see today.

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.