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Science News Archive February 2022 - Page 27


Page 27 of 40

UC study: Journalists might want to nix the term ‘storyteller’ from their bios

A recent University of Cincinnati study found that the term 'storyteller' attached to a journalist's bio diminishes public confidence in media. Participants on both sides of the political spectrum associated the term with biased reporting and decreased credibility. Researchers urge journalists to be more mindful of their online presence.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media·DateFeb 9, 2022

Black Instagram users’ propensity for political posts among study’s findings

A study found that Black Americans on Instagram are more willing to post political content than their non-Black counterparts, defying expectations. Despite uncertainty about their followers' political leanings, Black users are more likely to engage in political expression on the platform.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalSocial Media + Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 9, 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.

Scientists develop new thermofluidic process for lab-on-a-chip applications

Researchers have created a new method to generate strong fluid flows in tiny channels by heating a metal film with a laser beam, allowing for the separation and transport of nano-objects. This innovation has potential for lab-on-a-chip applications and could lead to advancements in nanoscale manufacturing and sensor technologies.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Common sleep apnea treatment may not benefit patients older than 80

Researchers found no clinical improvements in very elderly patients with CPAP therapy for moderate-to-severe sleep apnea. The study suggests that CPAP treatment is less effective in patients older than 80 due to a more sedentary lifestyle and other underlying disorders, limiting its long-term adherence.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSleep Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 2022

Researchers restore function in a gene that can suppress liver cancer and enhance immunotherapy

A team of researchers has reprogrammed the tumor microenvironment of liver cancer by using mRNA nanoparticles, restoring the function of the p53 master regulator gene. The approach increased antitumor immune responses in hepatocellular carcinoma laboratory models and shows promise for treating HCC and other cancers.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Harnessing sea pineapples and blood waste for metal-air-battery catalysts

Researchers from Tohoku University have developed a sustainable alternative to rare metals for metal-air battery catalysts, utilizing sea pineapple shells and blood waste. The new method produces high-quality carbon with electrical performances similar to that of rare metals.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScience and Technology of Advanced Materials·DateFeb 9, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Label-free multiplexed microtomography of endogenous subcellular dynamics using deep learning​

Researchers at KAIST developed an AI-powered microscope that can image live cells in 3D without exogenous labeling agents, achieving high accuracy and speed. The 'AI microscope' uses deep learning to predict fluorescence images from holographic images, confirming its potential for various biological research.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 9, 2022

A routine prenatal ultrasound can identify early signs of autism

Researchers found that 30% of fetuses who later developed ASD had heart, kidney, and head anomalies detected during routine prenatal ultrasounds. These anomalies were more common in girls and linked to the severity of ASD. The study suggests that doctors can use these signs to evaluate the probability of a child being born with ASD.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalBrain·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 9, 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.

Anisotropic supercurrent through twisted Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x van der Waals stacks: a step towards explaining high-temperature superconductivity

A Korean research team has demonstrated the anisotropic superconductivity of a high-temperature superconductor by stacking twisted pieces of Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x using the microcleave-and-stack technique. This study confirms material properties and develops a new fabrication method for nanomaterials.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 9, 2022

Final moments of planetary remnants seen for first time

Astronomers have observed the moment that debris from destroyed planets impacts a white dwarf star for the first time, confirming decades of indirect evidence. The event was detected using X-rays and provides direct measurement of accretion of rocky material onto a white dwarf.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2022

Recent papers in ACS Bio & Med Chem AU

Researchers investigated the effects of insulin aggregation on human health, finding strategies to prevent it. Additionally, a study revealed that amphiphilic membrane environments can regulate enzymatic behaviors in Salmonella proteins.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Bio & Med Chem Au·DateFeb 9, 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.

Protective mutations in COVID-19

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg mapped SARS-CoV-2 mutation patterns and found that ADAR1-induced mutations weaken the virus. These mutations are more common than other types of mutations, suggesting a protective mechanism against COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 2022

Fossils excavated in the 1960s add missing link to crocodile evolution

Researchers have formally recognised Mambawakale ruhuhu as a distinct species, representing an early member of the crocodile evolutionary lineage. The fossil, discovered in the 1960s, features distinctive characteristics including a large skull and narrow lower jaw.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Intracellular bacteria use sophisticated ‘hack’ to evade a host’s immune system

Researchers discovered a signaling mechanism allowing intracellular bacteria like Salmonella to outmaneuver host defenses. By triggering macrophage death and activating the complement system, these bacteria can safely deliver themselves into another macrophage. This 'hack' enables them to persist within infected hosts.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Potential biomarkers identified for neuropsychiatric symptoms of lupus

A University of Houston researcher has identified potential biomarkers for neuropsychiatric symptoms of lupus, which include CSF Lipocalin-2, M-CSF, IgM, and complement C3. Elevated levels of these proteins in cerebrospinal fluid may indicate a diagnosis of NPSLE.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateFeb 9, 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.

Micrometer-sized particles encased in tailored polymer membranes

Researchers have developed a tailored polymer membrane to encase micrometer-sized metal hydrides, improving the storage of hydrogen. The coating prevents surface oxidation and long-range separation of components, enabling more efficient energy storage.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

It’s in the air – battery discovery takes up the charge

Researchers at UTS have designed a molecule to tackle issues with lithium-oxygen batteries, increasing discharge capacity and efficiency. The breakthrough paves the way for long-life, energy-dense batteries capable of matching petrol-fuelled cars' driving ranges.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Sense of ‘professionalism’ linked to unethical behavior

A Cornell University study found that a high self-concept of professionalism can lead to greater acceptance of conflicts of interest and bias. Managers with a deep understanding of the concept are more likely to remain objective and ethical.

SourceCornell University·JournalAcademy of Management Perspectives·DateFeb 9, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

5 elements to optimize treatment of in-hospital stroke

The American Heart Association has outlined five core elements to optimize the treatment of in-hospital strokes. These include education, quality review, and oversight for in-patient stroke response teams. Developing targeted quality improvement plans is crucial to reducing delays and improving outcomes for hospitalized patients.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalStroke·DateFeb 9, 2022

Why do locusts form destructive swarms?

Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that a specific type of bacteria, Weissella, becomes dominant in the gut microbiomes of locusts when they form swarms. This change may provide the bacteria with an evolutionary advantage, allowing them to spread and infect more locusts.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateFeb 9, 2022

Seawater seep may be speeding glacier melt, sea level rise

A new study published in The Cryosphere finds that warm seawater intrusion under glaciers may cause much higher rates of melting at the glacier bottom. This could lead to projected ice sheet volume loss being 10-50% higher, or more than doubling over the next century.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalThe Cryosphere·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 2022

NIST, collaborators uncover new details on the formation of ‘metal soaps’ in oil paint hindering the conservation of artworks

A team of scientists has discovered a range of metal carboxylates, known as 'metal soaps', that form in oil paintings and cause damage over time. These compounds are often composed of zinc and lead pigments, but other metals like aluminum and calcium can also be present.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 9, 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.

‘Going virtual’ sees international conference cut carbon emissions by 425 tons and boost LMIC attendance

Researchers found that switching to virtual conferencing can significantly cut carbon emissions, doubling attendance from low-middle income countries, while eliminating travel-related emissions. However, the study highlights limitations, including reduced feedback survey responses and potential equity issues.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateFeb 9, 2022

Lung cancer patients coped with pandemic better than many peers

A study found that lung cancer patients coped better with the pandemic, showing lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to healthy individuals. The strength needed to face their disease helped them cope more effectively with COVID-19 fears.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Genome of extinct Steller’s sea cow reveals surprising link to human skin disease

The genome of Steller's sea cow reveals genes that may have played a role in its adaptation to cold marine environments, similar to those found in humans with the skin disease ichthyosis. The study also found similarities between Steller's sea cows and cetaceans in certain genes involved in energy metabolism.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 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.

Context-dependent behavior can make cooperation flourish

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that changing social strategies between settings can lead to more cooperative behavior in a society. In a model with spillover between domains, cooperation is favored when actors can observe and imitate each other's behaviors in different contexts.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 2022

Stargazing in the brain: “Star-like” cells display unique activity patterns

Researchers at OIST used advanced imaging to record signaling within single astrocytes, revealing ultra-fast signals on par with neurons and patterns of activity corresponding to different behaviors. The findings suggest that astrocytes may store memories as 'fingerprints' in specific areas, called hotspot maps.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Feeling dizzy when you stand up? Simple muscle techniques can effectively manage symptoms of initial orthostatic hypotension

Researchers discovered two simple physical maneuvers to effectively reduce blood pressure drops and alleviate symptoms of IOH in young women. Lower body muscle preactivation (thighs) and tensing improved cardiac output and stroke volume, respectively, leading to a reduction in symptoms upon standing.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeart Rhythm·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 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.

Access to acute stroke care in US

A study found that approximately one-third of the US population lacks access to emergency departments with acute stroke capabilities and telestroke capacity. The research estimated these proportions to better understand healthcare disparities in stroke care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 9, 2022

Study reveals Ebola virus can hide in brain, persist even after treatment

A groundbreaking study reveals that Ebola virus can hide in the brain ventricular system and cause fatal disease even after treatment. Persistent infection was found in about 20% of monkeys treated with antibody therapeutics, highlighting the need for long-term follow-up of survivors.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Most workers experience multiple, interconnected vulnerabilities to COVID-19

A study of 2,800 US workers found that clusters of financial, mental health, and healthcare access vulnerabilities contribute to COVID-19-related disparities. Essential workers experienced more financial vulnerability, while women had worse mental health, and rural residents faced greater healthcare access barriers.

SourceNew York University·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 9, 2022

Metabolism found to regulate production of killer cells

A recent study from Lund University found a previously unknown metabolic switch that regulates blood cell formation, enabling the directed production of natural killer cells for anti-cancer treatment. This discovery has significant implications for immunotherapy and cancer treatment.

SourceLund University·JournalEMBO Reports·DateFeb 9, 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.

Co-occurring droughts could threaten global food security

A new study warns that co-occurring droughts could place an unprecedented strain on the global agricultural system, threatening water security and exacerbating food insecurity. The researchers' analysis shows a ninefold increase in agricultural and human population exposure to severe co-occurring droughts by the late-21st century.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 2022

Advancing genome editing through studying DNA repair mechanisms

Researchers at CeMM Research Center discovered that the DNA mismatch repair process plays a crucial role in prime editing. By eliminating mismatch repair, they increased prime editing efficiency by 2-17-fold and improved its accuracy. This fundamental understanding brings the technology closer to clinical applications.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 2022

Research demonstrates importance of consistent branding in political television ads

A study by Washington University in St. Louis found that slant and consistency of messages in national television ads significantly impact online word-of-mouth chatter and candidate preference. Consistency with the primary message is crucial, even for more partisan messages, suggesting that campaign strategies should focus on building ...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalQuantitative Marketing and Economics·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 9, 2022

Scientists create a global repository for cell engineering

A cloud-based repository called CellRepo has been launched to track and organize digital data from engineered microorganisms. The database uses cell barcodes to monitor and track organisms, enabling faster tracing of lab origins and design details.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 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.

Computer model shows the best ways to slow the spread of COVID-19

Researchers developed a computational model that simulates COVID-19 transmission and forecasts case numbers & hospitalizations. The model incorporates various factors such as vaccination rates, mask use, lockdowns, and breakthrough infections to predict the spread of variants.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 9, 2022

Smoking cessation drugs prescribed over the internet are as safe and effective as in-person treatment

A recent study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that internet-based smoking cessation interventions using prescription pharmacotherapy were as effective as in-person clinical trials. Up to a third of participants achieved smoke-free status after 12 weeks, with quit rates substantially higher than unassisted attempts.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 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.

HKU Digital Citizenship Study reveals digital competence as a protective factor against gaming addiction in children and adolescents

A comprehensive study by HKU researchers found that digital competence is associated with reduced risk of gaming addiction and cyberbullying among children and adolescents. The study highlights the importance of equipping future generations with better digital skills to promote healthy media use and reduce addictive behaviors.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·DateFeb 9, 2022

Unlocking the mechanical secrets of giant Amazonian waterlilies

The study found that the distinctive pattern on the underside of the leaves is crucial for their size and strength. The unique vascular structure allows the plants to occupy a large surface area while maintaining low biomass.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 2022

UCI study reveals neurobiological processes occurring during puberty that trigger sex differences in learning and memory

Research finds prepubescent female rodents outperform males in hippocampal long-term potentiation and spatial learning, reversing after puberty. The study proposes optimal teaching strategies should adapt to brain differences between sexes during this critical life stage.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

UC Davis Health engineered antibody helps block SARS-CoV-2 transmission

Researchers at UC Davis Health have developed an engineered antibody, FuG1, that can interfere with the cell-to-cell transmission ability of SARS-CoV-2. The approach targets the furin enzyme, which is critical for viral transmissibility, and could be added to existing SARS-CoV-2 antibody cocktails.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 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.

New insight into unconventional superconductivity

Researchers at PSI's Laboratory for Muon Spin Spectroscopy have discovered strong evidence of exotic charge order and orbital currents in a correlated kagome superconductor. The findings provide a new insight into unconventional superconductivity and its relationship with the quantum anomalous Hall effect.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022