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Science News Archive February 2022 - Page 2


Page 2 of 40

New, nature-inspired concepts for turning CO2 into clean fuels

Scientists from the University of Cambridge have developed a method to improve the efficiency of electrolysis for converting CO2 into fuel, reducing unwanted by-products and increasing production by 18 times. The new concept relies on enzymes isolated from bacteria and fine-tunes the local environment to optimize their performance.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 28, 2022

Quantum boomerang

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara experimentally demonstrate the quantum boomerang effect, where particles in a disordered system return to their starting point after being displaced. The effect is rooted in Anderson localization and is stabilized by wave-like interference in quantum systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review X·DateFeb 28, 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.

Stanford researchers map wildlife and infrastructure to maximize tourism in Costa Rica

The study demonstrates the importance of protecting nature to keep tourism revenue flowing, with key findings showing that infrastructure supports tourism hotspots where roads and hotels are easily accessible. Researchers suggest creating a nationwide accounting system to track the value of natural assets and provide long-term habitat ...

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2022

New technique unlocks ancient history of Earth from grains of sand

Researchers have developed a new method to study ancient grains of sand, revealing details of the Earth's distant geological past. The 'age distribution fingerprint' of zircon minerals sheds light on the evolution of continents and the accumulation of mineral resources.

SourceCurtin University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2022

Disaggregate and rule: Optimizing power consumption estimation in commercial buildings

Researchers propose a disaggregation strategy to estimate power consumption of individual electrical facilities, improving accuracy over traditional methods. The new approach uses linear regression residuals and clustered daily routines to provide more accurate estimations for workdays and holidays.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalEnergy and Buildings·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·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.

Healthy gut microbiome improves success of cancer treatment

A recent study published in Nature Medicine has confirmed the link between a healthy gut microbiome and the response to cancer immunotherapy. The study found that certain bacterial species, such as Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum, Roseburia spp., and Akkermansia muciniphila, are associated with a better immune response.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2022

A review of defect engineering in two-dimensional materials for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction

Defect engineering is an effective way to regulate the catalytic performance of 2D materials. Researchers constructed various defects, including edge defects and dopant-derived defects, to enhance hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. The review paper introduces their structure-function relationship in HER.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateFeb 28, 2022

Cholesterol-lowering drugs may slow down metastases

Researchers have found that statins can inhibit the formation of tumors and metastases in animals with increased MACC1 expression. A study analyzing data from over 300,000 patients prescribed statins also showed a correlation between statin use and reduced cancer incidence.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2022

Yale’s new data analysis tool uncovers important COVID-19 clues

The Multiscale PHATE tool uncovers specific immune cell types linked to poor COVID-19 outcomes, including a helper T cell known as TH17. By analyzing millions of cells, researchers found that high levels of certain white blood cell types predict mortality with 83% accuracy.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 28, 2022

Clues to better batteries emerge from tracking lithium

Researchers used x-rays to track lithium deposition and removal from a battery anode during cycling, identifying irregularities that lead to reduced capacity and lifespan. Incomplete lithium stripping causes dead spots on the anode, reducing cell capacity and electron flow.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateFeb 28, 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.

New precision technology for immunotherapy

Researchers at Lund University have developed a new precision medicine technology, TS-MAP, to identify and target cancer cell surface proteins. The method provides a direct analysis of all accessible cell surface tumour antigens in tumour tissue from patients.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2022

Why exercise gets harder the less you do

Researchers at the University of Leeds discovered that deactivating the Piezo1 protein, a blood flow sensor, reduces muscle capillary density and restricts blood flow to muscles. This results in reduced exercise capability and increased risk of disease, highlighting the crucial link between physical activity and physical performance.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 28, 2022

Mystery solved about the origin of the 30,000-year-old Venus of Willendorf

A team of researchers used micro-computed tomography to examine the interior of the Venus figurine, finding that its material likely comes from northern Italy. The analysis revealed a unique combination of grain sizes and properties that match samples from Lake Garda, suggesting a journey south of the Alps.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2022

An age-old problem

Researchers have developed a new model system using Daphnia to study aging, focusing on interventions that extend active life and health rather than just lifespan. This approach addresses existing problems in the field, such as lack of standardized data and misinterpretation of results.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalAging Cell·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.

Mineralization of amber insects provides new view of amber taphonomy

Researchers discovered calcification and silicification of insects in Kachin amber, preserving complete compound eyes, cuticle structures, and skin sensillae. The study sheds light on the role of mineralization in preserving fossils and challenges existing views on amber taphonomy.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalGeobiology·DateFeb 28, 2022

How the body fights back against cancer

Researchers at the University of East Anglia discovered a way to activate the immune system to fight cancer cells using a protein called STING. This finding could lead to improved treatments for people with acute myeloid leukemia, which is difficult to treat and often relapses after chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 28, 2022

New optical tweezers put on the pressure to change color

Researchers at Osaka City University have developed a new technique for controlling the luminescence color of materials using optical tweezers and nanotextured black silicon. The system can change the color of a material in response to changes in light pressure, allowing for fully reversible remote control.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 28, 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.

Super scintillators enable X-ray detection at an ultralow level

The KAUST team has created a flexible and efficient scintillation film using lead-free metal halides, detecting X-rays at levels 113 times lower than standard medical imaging doses. This breakthrough enhances medical, industrial and security X-ray imaging, offering significant improvements in spatial resolution.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

A slow-motion section of the San Andreas fault may not be so harmless after all

A new study of rocks from nearly 2 miles under the surface suggests that the San Andreas fault's central section has hosted many major earthquakes, including some that could have been fairly recent. The researchers found altered compositions in sedimentary rock, indicating more than 100 quakes with potential magnitudes over 6.9.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalGeology·TypeObservational study·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.

Adaptive HEALEY ALS Platform Trial hopes to bring new treatments to patients faster

The HEALEY ALS Platform Trial is a groundbreaking approach to drug testing and treatment development for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). With over 800 patients enrolled, the trial has already shown promising results, including a favorable active-to-placebo ratio of three to one in favor of receiving an active drug.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateFeb 28, 2022

Gender-affirming hormone therapy can influence gene activity

A new study found that gender-affirming hormone therapy can affect certain regions of DNA, influencing immune function and susceptibility to autoimmune disease. The research has important implications for counseling transgender children and adolescents about the effects of hormone therapies.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalClinical Epigenetics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Geisel study finds higher death rates in older adults with cognitive impairment during the Pandemic

A new study by Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine found higher mortality rates among older adults with cognitive impairment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study showed a 24% increase in mortality for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and a 36% increase for nursing home residents with ADRD.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeObservational study·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.

Researchers successfully measure second sound attenuation

A team led by Prof. PAN Jianwei from the University of Science and Technology of China has successfully measured second sound attenuation in a controlled experiment using ultra-cold lithium-6, verifying the dynamic scaling theory and paving the way for further research on quantum critical regions.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2022

Nostalgia can relieve pain

Researchers found that viewing nostalgic images from childhood reduced pain perception in adults, with the strongest effect on low-intensity pain. Nostalgic images decreased activity in brain regions involved in pain perception, including the left lingual gyrus and parahippocampal gyrus.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Average of 9 promotional claims on packaging of UK baby food products

A study of UK baby food products found an average of 9 promotional claims per product, with many implying indirect health benefits. This 'healthy halo effect' may be confusing for parents and contributes to a free-for-all in terms of regulation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Making the invisible visible: A clearer ‘picture’ of blood vessels in health and disease thanks to new imaging approach

Researchers developed a new imaging approach called VascuViz to visualize blood vessels at different spatial scales. The method enables detailed mathematical models and complementary images to clarify the role of blood flow in health and disease, advancing our understanding of tissues throughout the body.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 28, 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.

Freshwater from thin air

Researchers have developed a hydrogel that can absorb and retain water when combined with a hygroscopic salt, extracting almost six liters of pure water per kilo of material in 24 hours. This technology could play a fundamental role in recovering atmospheric water in drought-stricken regions.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Inappropriate use of 228 clinical practices in Canada

A systematic review of 174 studies found that 228 Canadian clinical practices were used inappropriately, with underuse being more common than overuse. Inappropriate care can lead to poor health outcomes and inefficient use of healthcare resources.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 28, 2022

Patient safety program reduces unnecessary antibiotic use in long-term care facilities

A study published in JAMA Network Open shows that a comprehensive system to improve antibiotic stewardship in long-term care facilities significantly reduces the use of antibiotics, leading to better patient outcomes and reduced drug-resistant bacterial strains. The program empowered clinicians to make informed decisions about prescrib...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 28, 2022

Webb Fellowship awarded for the study of giant planets

Dr Henrik Melin, a researcher at the University of Leicester, has been awarded the third-ever Webb Fellowship to study the atmospheres of giant planets using the James Webb Space Telescope. He aims to understand the mechanisms driving powerful aurorae on these planets and address the 'energy crisis' in their upper atmospheres.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateFeb 28, 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.

New finding in astronomy: black hole spins on its side

For the first time, scientists have measured a large difference between a black hole's rotation axis and the axis of its orbiting binary star system. This finding forces astronomers to add a new dimension to their models, offering new insights into black hole formation and physics.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 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.

Key regulating protein found in homologous recombination and cell survival

A recent study by Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, discovered a novel regulatory role of mitochondrial factor HIGD1A in DNA damage repair. The research found that the protein's translocation into the nucleus regulates homologous recombination and affects sensitivity to radiation therapies.

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

New way viruses trigger autoimmunity discovered

Researchers discovered a viral infection can trigger autoimmunity in mice by disrupting the thymus's screening process for self-destructive T cells. Infection with murine roseolovirus led to autoimmune gastritis months later, highlighting a previously unknown way viruses can trigger autoimmunity.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Do hospitals that conduct research provide better care for patients?

Analysis reveals hospitals that publish research studies have better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates for heart attack, heart failure, and pneumonia. Hospitals with more publications also receive higher patient ratings and are more likely to be recommended by patients.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalHealth Services Research·DateFeb 28, 2022

Condition for neutrino oscillation instability in Stars

Basudeb Dasgupta's study shows that collective oscillations can occur only if the spectra of two neutrino flavors cross over at some energy or emission angle. This result guarantees that observation of neutrino oscillation instabilities will reveal new information from deep within the star.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 28, 2022

Workers with disabilities overcome pandemic setbacks, outpacing people without disabilities to set new records for employment

A new report from Kessler Foundation reveals that workers with disabilities have exceeded pre-pandemic employment levels to reach historic highs, while those without disabilities still lag behind. The data show that labor force participation rates for people with disabilities increased from 33.6% in 2019 to 35.1% in 2021, outpacing the...

SourceKessler Foundation·DateFeb 28, 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.

The flue gas desulfurization process in powder-particle spouted beds simulated by the adjusted mesoscale drag model is more accurate

A new drag model for powder-particle spouted beds has been developed and tested, achieving higher accuracy in simulating the desulfurization process. The model's structure-activity relationship has been shown to improve predictions of particle velocity, water vaporization rates, and mass fractions.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2022

Trees may benefit from earlier start of growing season in cold humid areas

Research found that an earlier start to the growing season enhances tree growth in cold, humid regions but not in dry areas. The study analyzed annual tree-ring width data and found distinct spatial patterns of tree growth in response to an earlier onset of cambial activity.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 28, 2022

Ergonomic chair based on the innovation by Lithuanian researchers might help reduce back pain

A joint team of Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuania researchers, and JSC Abili created a prototype of an office chair that activates deep muscles and improves trunk stabilisation. This innovation aims to prevent musculoskeletal disorders caused by prolonged sitting, common among sedentary workers.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalTechnology and Health Care·TypeExperimental study·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.

Goldberg receives funding for training program

Debora Goldberg has received funding to develop a Health and Public Safety Workforce Resiliency Training Program (HPSWRTP) at George Mason University. The program aims to promote health and well-being in rural and underserved communities across the US.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 28, 2022

Spintronics: Innovative crystals for future computer electronics

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have grown crystals with rare-earth atoms that exhibit surprising fast magnetic properties. The team found that the strength of these reactions can be adjusted by choosing different atoms, opening up possibilities for optimizing spintronics components.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Study reveals chemical link between wildfire smoke and ozone depletion

Researchers found a chemical link between wildfire smoke and ozone depletion, which may stall ozone recovery for years. The study discovered that the smoke from Australian wildfires in 2019-2020 depleted ozone by 1%, highlighting the potential impact of future, more frequent fires.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 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.

Ethers may have a more sustainable future thanks to heterogenous catalysis

A zirconium oxide-supported platinum-molybdenum catalyst enables the selective conversion of esters into valuable unsymmetrical ethers under mild conditions. This process offers a sustainable solution for producing these compounds from renewable biomass-derived materials, reducing waste and energy consumption.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Bark of neem tree may protect against coronavirus variants

Researchers found that Neem bark components target a wide range of viral proteins, suggesting its potential as an antiviral agent against emerging coronavirus variants. The study showed the bark extract was effective in reducing virus replication and spread in SARS-CoV-2 human lung cells.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalVirology·DateFeb 28, 2022