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Science News Archive February 2022 - Page 34


Page 34 of 40

Reusable catalyst makes C–H bond oxidation using oxygen easier and more efficient

Scientists from Tokyo Tech have developed a reusable catalyst for oxidative C–H functionalization, making the process faster and more efficient. The catalyst, murdochite-type Mg6MnO8 nanoparticles, can catalyze the selective oxidation of alkylarene compounds under mild reaction conditions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 4, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rice production depends on TAB1 gene, researchers find

A study published by Hiroshima University researchers reveals that the TAB1 gene is essential for rice grain formation. The gene plays a critical role in maintaining stem cells until the last stage of flower development, leading to ovule formation and seed production.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalDevelopment·DateFeb 4, 2022

Spleen volume and blood parameters correlations

A study of 74 healthy individuals found correlations between spleen volume and gender, age, and certain blood parameters such as HGB, HCT, RBC, ALT, but not others like LYM%, PLT. Spleen volume was estimated using the Cavalieri principle and stereological method.

SourceKarabuk Universitesi Tip Fakultesi·JournalAnatomy & Cell Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 4, 2022

MU earns $12 million in grants to boost science education, literacy

University of Missouri researchers are using a video game to teach middle schoolers about science and improving literacy outcomes for second graders through speech recognition software. The programs aim to increase student engagement and prepare them for future careers in various fields.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateFeb 4, 2022

Preventing pandemics costs far less than controlling them

A new study suggests that preventing pandemics could save around 1.6 million lives and reduce mortality costs by $10 trillion annually by investing just 5% of the estimated annual economic losses associated with human deaths from COVID into environmental protection and early-stage disease surveillance.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 4, 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.

Liquid metals, surface patterns, and the romance of the three kingdoms

Scientists discovered oscillatory bifurcation patterns on liquid metal surfaces, mirroring the cyclic power blocs in 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms.' The unusual patterns emerge due to surface instability, with potential applications in plasmonic sensing and high-efficiency electronics.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Synthesis·DateFeb 3, 2022

*Free* Highly virulent variant of HIV discovered in the Netherlands

A highly virulent subtype-B HIV-1 variant has been found to cause exceptionally high viral loads and rapid CD4 T cell decline, making it more infectious. The 'VB variant' emerged de novo around the millennium with over 300 significant genome changes, making its mechanisms of elevated virulence unclear.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 3, 2022

Study shows discrepancy in 'hookup culture' sexual activity on dates

A recent study from the University of Kansas found that college students' self-reported attitudes towards sex on dates do not match their actual behavior. When men initiated dates, sex was more restricted than when women asked for a date. In contrast, female-initiated dates saw genital contact occurring on 63% of occasions, while tradi...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalSexuality & Culture·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 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.

NRG oncology trial results indicate trametinib should represent the new standard of care for women with recurrent low-grade serous ovarian cancer

The NRG-GOG 0281/LOGS trial demonstrated that trametinib significantly reduces disease progression and improves response rates in women with recurrent low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary/peritoneum. The study found a trend towards higher overall survival rates when compared to standard of care options.

SourceNRG Oncology·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 3, 2022

People prefer interacting with female robots in hotels

A study by Washington State University researcher Soobin Seo found that people are more comfortable talking to female robots working in service roles in hotels. The preference is stronger when the robots are described as having more human features, with participants rating female robot interactions as more pleasant and satisfying.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2022

Immunotherapy with house dust mite extract reduces symptoms of atopic dermatitis

Researchers found sublingual immunotherapy with house dust mite extract to be effective in reducing signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis. The treatment, administered over 18 months, resulted in significant improvements in pruritus and lesions, with rare side effects.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2022

An NICU quality-improvement program reduced death or severe brain bleeding in extremely premature infants

A comprehensive quality-improvement initiative in a NICU reduced death and severe brain bleeding in extremely preterm infants from 27.4% to 15%. The program introduced evidence-based practices, including electronic order sets, improved monitoring of blood carbon dioxide and pH levels, and standardized delivery room practices.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 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.

The secret lives of bats reveal botanical mysteries

Researchers discover unique bat-pollination system in Fiji's kuluva trees, highlighting co-dependence between species and urgent conservation needs. The novel chiropteropisteusis system sheds light on the evolution of flowering plants and threatens tree and bat species.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Physicists unify sociological theories that explain social stability

Researchers from the Complexity Science Hub Vienna propose that homophily, or interacting with like-minded individuals, automatically leads to social balance and stability. They demonstrate this using data from the Massive Multiplayer Online Game Pardus, where players tend to form friendships with those who share similar characteristics.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Unconscious perception of sounds: We hear differences even without listening

Neurobiologists demonstrated that humans can unconsciously distinguish between even very similar sounds, but often don't recognize these differences. The study used EEG to measure brain responses to stimuli and found that the brain reacts differently to local and global irregularities in sound sequences.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateFeb 3, 2022

Structure of central inflammation switch elucidated

Scientists at the University of Bonn discovered the structure of the NLRP3 protein's binding site for CRID3 inhibitor, which can target inflammatory diseases like gout and Alzheimer's. The study provides a powerful therapeutic tool against chronic inflammatory diseases.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 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.

Origin of supermassive black hole flares identified: largest-ever simulations suggest flickering powered by magnetic ‘reconnection’

A new simulation suggests that energy released near a black hole's event horizon during magnetic field line reconnection powers the intense flares. The process involves interactions between the magnetic field and material falling into the black hole, releasing hot plasma particles that radiate away as photons.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022

First U.S. peer-reviewed study on omicron patient outcomes reveals rapid spread and significant differences in infection behavior

The first US peer-reviewed study on omicron patient outcomes found significant differences in infection behavior. Ominron patients are significantly younger, have increased vaccine breakthrough rates, and are less likely to be hospitalized compared to patients with alpha or delta variants.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Lockdown measures linked to an increase in drinking at home

Research from the University of Sheffield and University of Glasgow found that lockdown restrictions led to an increase in drinking at home, particularly among those living alone. The study suggests that these new habits should be closely monitored as restrictions ease, with potential long-term consequences for health.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalAddiction·DateFeb 3, 2022

Future hurricanes likely to pose much greater flood risk to US East and Gulf coasts

Climate change projections indicate a dramatic increase in extreme rainfall-surge events along the US East and Gulf coasts, with compound flooding events expected to worsen flood risks. Sea level rise and storm intensification are identified as key drivers of this phenomenon.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 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.

Love of nature is partially heritable, study of twins shows

A large-scale study of UK twins found that identical twins shared a greater affinity for nature and frequent visits to natural spaces compared to fraternal twins. Heritability estimates ranged from 46% for nature orientation to 34% for garden visits, suggesting a moderate genetic influence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2022

Study uncovers new features of genome organization

Researchers identified two classes of DNA elements: tethering and insulators, which work together to regulate gene expression. Tethering elements facilitate timely activation by bringing enhancers close to target genes, while insulators prevent interference between neighboring genetic loci.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

People with less memory loss in old age gain more knowledge

A study published in Science Advances reveals that individuals with less memory loss in old age tend to gain more knowledge, contrary to the previously assumed compensatory power of crystallized abilities. The findings suggest a strong dependency between changes in fluid and crystallized abilities.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 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.

Cutting off liver cancer’s nutrient supply chain

Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have developed a way to interfere with the energy pathway that allows liver cancer to grow and spread by targeting the pyruvate kinase protein. This approach uses antisense oligonucleotides, which reduce tumor development in mouse models, offering a potential treatment for liver cancer.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·DateFeb 3, 2022

Are scientists being fooled by bacteria?

Researchers developed a method called 6mASCOPE that measures DNA tagging system accuracy and distinguishes bacterial from human DNA. The study found high levels of methylation in plant, fly, mouse, and human cells, but mostly attributed to contamination.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Puffy planets lose atmospheres, become super-Earths

Astronomers have detected two mini-Neptune planets losing their atmospheres due to stellar radiation. The finding provides evidence that these worlds may be transforming into super-Earths. The study uses data from W. M. Keck Observatory and NASA's Hubble Space Telescope.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateFeb 3, 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.

New polymer fuel cells can operate at higher temperatures

A new high-temperature polymer fuel cell operates at 80-160 degrees Celsius, solving the overheating issue in medium-and heavy-duty fuel cells. The new technology achieves a nearly 800 milliwatts per square centimeter rated power density, improving upon state-of-the-art fuel cells.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 3, 2022

New research finds that having a care manager during pregnancy reduces likelihood of delivering a baby prematurely for individuals most at risk

A new study found that pregnant people on Medicaid who received intensive care management had lower preterm birth rates compared to those who did not. This initiative, known as Pregnancy Medical Home (PMH), provided comprehensive care from a team of professionals, including social and economic support.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 3, 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.

Exploring the strategies of categorization

Researchers explored pigeons' categorization strategies using computer-generated stimuli and machine learning analysis. The study found that pigeons attach importance to specific characteristics of stimuli, leading to individualized categorization preferences.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAnimal Cognition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

NFTs offer new method to control personal health information

Researchers propose using NFT digital contracts to enable patients to specify who can access their personal health information and track sharing. This could help democratize health data and give individuals more control over their health information.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateFeb 3, 2022

New study suggests automated, interactive video content could improve hand-washing practices to reduce healthcare-associated infections

A new study found that automated smart technology, including video engagement, can increase mean hand-washing duration and the number of users who achieve recommended 20 seconds of hand washing. However, researchers suggest that video content should be refreshed every 3 months to sustain engagement.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Scientists create vast data resource to uncover ALS subtypes

A new cloud-based data resource has been developed to help identify new subtypes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurological disorder. The tool, part of the Answer ALS collaborative effort, uses biological and clinical data from over 1,000 patients to better understand the disease.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 3, 2022
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.

February issues of American Psychiatric Association journals cover new research on disparities in the opioid crisis, new practice guidelines for peer specialists and supervisors, more

The February issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services highlight new research on the opioid crisis, with a focus on improving treatment outcomes. Additionally, the latest issue of Focus features articles on novel neurotherapeutics and practice guidelines for peer specialists and supervisors.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 3, 2022

How to get chloride ions into the cell

A study led by Przemyslaw Nogly at PSI has detailed insight into the mechanism of a light-driven chloride pump in bacteria, revealing how light energy converts to kinetic energy and transports chloride ions inside cells. The pump uses two molecular gates to ensure one-way transport, with the process taking around 100 milliseconds.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Chemists find path to cheap deployment of hydrogen fuel cells

Cornell University chemists have developed a class of nonprecious metal derivatives that can efficiently power cars and generate electricity with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. The breakthrough could enable wider deployment of hydrogen fuel cells, replacing combustion engines and reducing waste.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 3, 2022

Strong corporate inclusion and diversity practice can help bring along employees reticent about supporting transgender and non-binary (‘trans’) people

Research from the University of Bath finds that companies with strong diversity and inclusion climates can spur support for trans staff, even among those initially hesitant. The study emphasizes the importance of practical frameworks, leadership, and authentic allyship initiatives to create a more inclusive work environment.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalThe International Journal of Human Resource Management·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 3, 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.

Scientists decode chemical defense against plant sap-sucking leafhoppers

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology identified a chemical substance responsible for the resistance of Nicotiana attenuata plants to sucking leafhoppers. The study used field research, molecular biology and chemical analyses to uncover a new defense mechanism in tobacco plants.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Maintaining transparency: study to focus on causes of cataracts

A new study will focus on the biological mechanisms causing cataracts, potentially leading to new treatments. The research team, led by Nicholas Delamere, PhD, will investigate the role of protein ion channels TRPV1 and TRPV4 in age-related lens cell changes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2022

Earth’s water was around before Earth

Researchers found two gas reservoirs, one containing solar gas and the other with terrestrial water signature, in the earliest stages of our solar system. This discovery suggests that Earth's water was present before the accretion of its constituent blocks.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 3, 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.

Improving air quality associated with slower cognitive decline in women

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that reducing air pollution exposure can slow cognitive decline in older women, with benefits seen across various demographics. The research followed 2,232 women for up to 20 years, revealing a significant association between improved air quality and reduced cognitive decline.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 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.

“Inflaming” cold tumors

Scientists at Technical University of Munich discovered a promising combination therapy for mesenchymal PDAC subtype, showing improved T-cell infiltration and cell cycle arrest when using nintedanib with trametinib. The treatment significantly improves the response of highly aggressive mesenchymal PDAC subtypes in mice.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Study predicts that routine immunisation with the first typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) could avert 46-74% of typhoid fever cases

A mathematical modeling study predicts that routine immunization with TCV could avert 46-74% of all typhoid fever cases in 73 countries. Vaccination is also expected to reduce the relative prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant typhoid by 16%, preventing millions of cases and deaths.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022

How a SARS-CoV-2 infection can become severe COVID-19

A study found that severe COVID-19 is associated with endothelial dysfunction, strong inflammatory processes, and a dysfunctional immune system. The researchers discovered seven plasma proteins linked to severe disease, which are also involved in the regeneration of the endothelial barrier during recovery.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 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.