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Science News Archive February 2022 - Page 28


Page 28 of 40

Examining disparities in general surgery training

Researchers analyzed general surgery residency application and graduation rates for Black trainees compared to their peers, finding significant disparities in matriculation and graduation rates. The study highlights the need for improved diversity and inclusion initiatives in general surgery training programs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateFeb 9, 2022

Trust in science rose in Germany after onset of COVID-19 pandemic

Public trust in science increased in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic, with stronger increases among educated individuals and those supporting the left-wing party. Despite this rise, public trust declined slightly by November 2020, highlighting the need for effective communication strategies to maintain trust

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 9, 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.

Frequent use of over-the-counter analgesics associated with risk of tinnitus

A new longitudinal study found that frequent use of NSAIDs or acetaminophen, as well as regular use of COX-2 inhibitors, is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic persistent tinnitus. Low-dose aspirin use did not elevate risk, but moderate-dose aspirin use was linked to higher risk among women under 60.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2022

Behavioral treatments for ADHD: For which children do they work?

A recent study found that behavioral treatments can reduce ADHD symptoms and improve behavior in children, but not all children respond equally well. Priority should be given to those with more severe ADHD, conduct disorder symptoms, or from single-parent families, as they are at risk of deterioration without treatment.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 9, 2022

Most people with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination have T cell immune responses against Omicron variant despite low antibody responses

A recent study published in Cell found that T cell responses are still robust against the Omicron variant in most individuals with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination, offering protection against severe disease. Booster vaccines can enhance T cell responses, substantially increasing immunity against severe COVID-19.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·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.

Rare earth elements await in waste

Rice University scientists have developed a method to extract rare earth elements from fly ash, bauxite residue, and electronic waste using flash Joule heating. This process improves yields and reduces the use of strong acids, making it a more sustainable solution for recycling these materials.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2022

Your microbiome shapes your life. But where did it come from?

A team of researchers discovered that chance plays a significant role in the formation of individual gut microbiomes, with genetic, diet, and environmental factors influencing the odds of colonization. The study's findings have major implications for treatments like fecal transplants and probiotics.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Applying the butterfly principle

Researchers at ETH Zurich have successfully replicated the surface structures of the Cynandra opis butterfly using nano-3D printing, enabling the production of structures that generate all visible spectrum colours. This breakthrough could lead to applications in security features, optical technologies, and high-resolution colour displays.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Distributed kerr lens mode-locked Yb:YAG thin-disk oscillator

Scientists have developed a new type of ultrafast laser oscillator that generates sub-50 fs pulses with broad spectral widths, exceeding the emission bandwidth of traditional gain media. The technique is pulse-energy and average-power scalable and applicable to other types of gain media.

SourceUltrafast Science·JournalUltrafast Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

New soft robot morphs from a ground to air vehicle using liquid metal

Researchers at Virginia Tech created a soft robot that can change shape and return to its original configuration using a liquid metal composite. The material combines kirigami-inspired cuts with a metal endoskeleton embedded in rubber, allowing it to morph into different shapes and functions.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience Robotics·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.

Update to clinical practice guideline on most common outpatient surgery performed on children: Tympanostomy tubes

The American Academy of Otolaryngology has published an updated clinical practice guideline for tympanostomy tubes in children, which provides evidence-based recommendations on patient selection and surgical indications. The guidelines aim to improve the management of middle ear infections and hearing loss in children.

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·JournalOtolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery·DateFeb 9, 2022

Equations might help make better agriculture funding decisions

Agricultural researcher Benjamin Schiek developed a mathematical method to better allocate resources across different policies and projects. The method calculates correlations between institutional research projects and strategic objectives, revealing synergies and trade-offs, enabling more informed funding decisions.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalPLOS ONE·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.

New method of targeting mutant RAS provides hope for cancer patients

Researchers have developed a new therapeutic approach to block mutated RAS proteins, which are frequently found in cancers. The method, using small molecules, has the potential to work with multiple mutant forms of RAS in various types of cancers, including pancreatic, lung, and colorectal cancers.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 9, 2022

Steering conversion of CO2 and ethane to desired products

Researchers identify two key principles determining reaction specificity in converting CO2 and ethane into synthesis gas or ethylene. The formation energy of the bimetallic catalyst and binding energy between the catalyst and oxygen released from CO2 are crucial in driving reaction selectivity.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Activist investors achieve higher returns using sell-side analysts’ reports

Research from Thomas Shohfi at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that sell-side analyst reports contain more activist-related language and quantitative information months before hedge fund activists announce their ownership. This is associated with greater stock returns for firm shareholders, highlighting the value of traditional ...

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalContemporary Accounting Research·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.

Artificial intelligence and big data can help preserve wildlife

A team of scientists has developed a pioneering approach to combine advances in computer vision with ecological expertise to analyze wildlife populations. By leveraging AI and machine learning algorithms, researchers can extract key features from images and videos to quickly classify species, count individuals, and track behavior.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 9, 2022

First-of-its-kind study: Predicting depression and PTSD risk after trauma

A first-of-its-kind study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing has validated two predictive screeners to identify urban Black men at high risk of developing depression and PTSD after a traumatic injury. The researchers found that these risk markers may share core similarities across populations and countries.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalInjury·DateFeb 9, 2022

New study unlocks mystery origin of iconic Aussie snakes

A research team led by University of Adelaide found tangible evidence that Australian elapids arrived by sea rather than land. The study analyzed genomes of two Australian elapids and compared them to marine and semi-marine elapid sea snakes, finding similarities with marine life genes.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGenes·DateFeb 9, 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.

Weight gain in pregnancy may be linked to later growth patterns in daughters

A new study from the University of Texas at Austin found that rapid weight gain in pregnant women during the first and final months may lead to higher body mass index measurements, larger waist circumferences, and higher body fat percentages in their daughters by age 14. Researchers connected patterns of weight change in pregnancy to p...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalObesity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 2022

January 2020 Puerto Rico earthquake provides valuable data for ground failure models

A recent study by USGS and UPR Mayagüez researchers documented over 300 landslides and severe liquefaction in southern coastal regions after the magnitude 6.4 earthquake. The data provides a valuable resource for Puerto Rico, which lacks an island-wide hazard map for earthquake-triggered landslides or liquefaction.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Mapping mutation ‘hotspots’ in cancer reveals new drivers and biomarkers

A team of researchers identified clusters of mutations in the genome that contribute to cancer progression in about 10% of human cancers. These clustered somatic mutations can be used to predict patient survival, with specific hotspots linked to better or worse outcomes for certain types of cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·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.

Bacteria’s hidden weapon: Toxins locked inside a capsule secured by a cork

Researchers have gained a deeper understanding of how bacteria use the type VI secretion system to develop toxins for battle. The discovery reveals that toxins are encapsulated in a capsule secured by a cork-like plug, which can be released upon mechanical force.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

High risk, high rewards

The team's achievement marks a significant step towards discovering physical phenomena where symmetry breaks down, which could explain the matter-antimatter asymmetry in the universe. The researchers plan to use the new optical clock to search for time symmetry violation and make large steps towards discovery.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 9, 2022

Growing oxygen deficient zones absorb carbon into the deep ocean

Researchers at University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science found that marine snow particles help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to a more efficient carbon cycle. The discovery sheds light on how oxygen deficient zones play a crucial role in the Earth's carbon cycle.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateFeb 9, 2022

Association for Molecular Pathology and The American Society for Investigative Pathology announce new editor-in-chief for The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics

Ronald M. Przygodzki, MD, has been appointed as the new Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics, succeeding Barbara Zehnbauer, PhD. Dr. Przygodzki brings extensive experience in genomic medicine and molecular diagnostics to the position.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateFeb 9, 2022

Weight-loss maintainers share strategies for success

Researchers analyzed the motivations and strategies of over 6,000 long-term weight-loss maintainers, finding that perseverance, consistently tracking food intake, and focusing on health goals were key to success. The study's findings may lead to new approaches in counseling and lifestyle interventions.

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalObesity·TypeObservational study·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.

Sewer slime can hang on to SARS-CoV-2 RNA from wastewater

Researchers found that sewer slime can accumulate SARS-CoV-2 RNA, which could decompose or slough off later. The slime's ability to hold onto the viral RNA was linked to the number of diagnosed COVID-19 cases in late fall. Further studies are needed to assess its impact on wastewater epidemiology.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS ES&T Water·DateFeb 9, 2022

In a first for “sonogenetics,” researchers control mammalian cells with sound

Salk researchers have engineered mammalian cells to be activated using ultrasound, a method that paves the way toward non-invasive versions of deep brain stimulation, pacemakers, and insulin pumps. The team found a protein called TRPA1, known for its role in responding to noxious compounds, which also opens in response to ultrasound.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 2022

Is bedtime media use detrimental for sleep?

Research found that using media before bed is associated with an earlier bedtime and reduced total sleep time. In contrast, short, focused media sessions in bed were linked to improved sleep quality.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·DateFeb 9, 2022

85% of coral reef fish studied are overfished, new research shows

A new study found that 85% of coral reef fish species are overfished due to increasing human demand for seafood. The research team developed a risk analysis framework to provide a blueprint for reducing overfishing and protecting these valuable fish populations.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalFisheries Research·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Researchers resolved human transcription factor (TF) regulation

A comprehensive study has revealed over 7,000 human transcription factor (TF) protein-protein interactions, with most playing important roles in transcriptional regulation. The study identifies groups of TFs with specific biological functions, such as chromatin remodelling and RNA splicing.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 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.

New disease mechanism behind mitochondrial diseases identified

Researchers discovered that deficient mitophagy leads to human disease and developed a method to analyze mitochondrial recycling in diseased muscle. Pharmacological activation of mitophagy reversed the progression of mitochondrial muscle disease, offering potential treatment for this condition.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 9, 2022

New detailed immune-profiling method uses only DNA from blood

A novel immune-profiling method can return detailed immune cell type proportions using only DNA from blood, potentially allowing for individualized prediction of outcomes in immunotherapy patients. This approach offers the opportunity to ask and answer questions about the immune system in health and disease.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Scientists discover new mechanism involved in learning and memory

A recent study at Rockefeller University reveals that the FMRP protein plays a dual role in regulating synaptic connections between neurons. It controls protein production in dendrites to strengthen connections, while also regulating gene expression in cell bodies to maintain overall neuron state.

SourceRockefeller University·JournaleLife·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.

Moon develops targeted, reliable, long-lasting kill switch

A new, reliable kill switch has been developed to eliminate genetically modified microbes that pose environmental risks. By inserting multiple kill switches into the microbial DNA, a success rate of one in billion microbes was achieved during experiments.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Eating prunes may help protect against bone loss in older women

Prunes have been found to help prevent or delay bone loss in postmenopausal women by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. This is due to their potential to alter the gut microbiome, which can lead to lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and markers of oxidative damage.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 9, 2022

Giant sponge gardens discovered on seamounts in the Arctic deep sea

Scientists discovered massive sponge gardens thriving on top of seamounts in the Central Arctic Ocean, dominated by sponges that feed on remnants of an extinct fauna. Microorganisms support the sponges in exploiting this fluffy material as a source of food and energy.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2022

Developing renewable raw materials for chemical engineering

A team led by Marianthi Ierapetritou aims to create a blueprint for a more renewable manufacturing future. They will examine existing literature and develop a framework for evaluating alternative products and processes, including their economic, environmental, and market impacts.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateFeb 8, 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.

HKUMed reports that SARS-CoV-2 Omicron infection recalls mRNA-vaccine-induced immunity for broad protection

Researchers found that mRNA-vaccinated individuals mounted rapid, broadly reactive immune responses after Omicron breakthrough infection, resulting in mild clinical symptoms. The study suggests that completing the mRNA vaccination series is crucial for protection against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·DateFeb 8, 2022

Protracted inflammation linked to post-COVID lung problems

A recent study found that protracted inflammation following COVID-19 is strongly linked to long-term changes in lung structure and function. Monitoring patients for signs of inflammation after infection may help identify those at risk of long-term lung problems.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateFeb 8, 2022

Cell cultures not as stable as you'd think

Researchers monitored cell environments for three days, finding significant differences from native conditions. The team aims to develop recommendations on improving culture conditions and reduce environmental instability.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 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.

With personalized medicine, a shelved cancer drug could get another shot

A new study by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers finds that triplatin is effective against triple negative breast cancer with high sulfated glycosaminoglycans (sGAG) levels. The drug accumulates inside cancer cells, causing damage and slowing tumor growth.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2022

Pacific Ocean as the greatest theater of bird migration

Researchers found that migratory birds, such as bar-tailed godwits and whimbrels, can fly for up to 9 days at a time, more efficiently than previously thought. The birds also demonstrate exceptional meteorological knowledge, adapting their routes to weather systems over long distances.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalOrnithology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2022

Gut bacteria linked to immune suppression in pancreatic cancer: Toronto study

A Toronto study found that certain probiotic bacteria can alter the function of immune cells and spur cancer growth in pancreatic cancer. Deletion or inhibition of a key protein enabled better treatment sensitivity and more inflammatory T cells, while activation thwarted these effects.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2022

Coronavirus booster vaccination also protects cancer patients

A study by MedUni Vienna found that many cancer patients can build up sufficient immunity against SARS-CoV-2 after the third vaccination. However, patients with blood cancers may not develop protection due to immunosuppressive treatments.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalEuropean Journal of Cancer·DateFeb 8, 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.

Research Group of Ryuichi Shindou proposed dissipationless conversion between magnetic spin and electric charge in emergent superfluid in 2D materials

A research group led by Ryuichi Shindou proposes a new phenomenon where magnetic spin and electric charge are converted without energy loss in emergent superfluids of 2D materials. This conversion is made possible by exciton condensates, which exhibit dissipationless supercurrent flows.

SourcePeking University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 8, 2022