Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2022 - Page 35


Page 35 of 40

Small study finds Alzheimer's-like changes in some COVID patients' brains

A small study found that COVID patients' brains display similar molecular changes to those with Alzheimer's disease, including increased phosphorylated tau and defective ryanodine receptors. The findings suggest a link between the immune response and neurological symptoms in long COVID patients.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Discovery of new highly virulent and damaging HIV variant in the Netherlands

Researchers have identified a new highly virulent HIV variant in the Netherlands, known as VB variant, which shows significant differences in immune system recovery and survival compared to other variants. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent damage from this more rapid decline in immune strength.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 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.

In young people, women are 44% more likely than men to have strokes

In young adults, women are at a higher risk of ischemic strokes, with a 44% greater incidence compared to men. Researchers highlight the need for further research into the causes and non-traditional risk factors that contribute to this disparity.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalStroke·DateFeb 3, 2022

Increase in home delivery service usage during COVID-19 pandemic unlikely to last

Research at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute finds that over 90% of people who use online delivery services would likely revert back to their original way of shopping. Delivery service users access products in four categories: groceries, food, home goods, and other items, with grocery deliveries having the highest proportion of new ado...

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022

Treasure in tree rings: Using untapped tree ring data to calculate carbon sequestration

A new research synthesis suggests using tree ring data from forest inventory plots to estimate carbon sequestration in forests. This approach could provide a direct record of the carbon gained by individual trees and forests, scaling up to estimate forest-wide and continent-wide carbon savings.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalBioScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Ten hospitals reduced opioid prescriptions for children who underwent appendectomy through a quality improvement initiative

A quality improvement initiative at 10 US children's hospitals has led to an almost 80% reduction in opioid prescribing for children after appendectomy, without harming patient outcomes. The study used a standardized prescribing protocol and ACS NSQIP Pediatric data to minimize opioid prescriptions.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 3, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

As the volume of social sciences journal articles increases, academic book publication is slowing

A study by Academic Analytics Research Center found a significant increase in journal article publications (64%) and decrease in book publications (34-54%) across 12 Social Sciences disciplines from 2010 to 2020. This shift may impact library acquisitions strategies and affect humanities-related fields.

SourceAcademic Analytics Research Center (AARC)·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Scientists test promising biosensor aimed for use in brain

Researchers developed a waterproof biosensor that can accurately detect changes in potassium and sodium ion levels important in TBI. The chip features electronic components that produce an electrical signal when sensing chemicals, and the team successfully tested it in artificial cerebrospinal fluid and human blood serum.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Untangling mixed (neural) signals

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered how 'polyglot' neurons encode and decode sensorimotor chatter, enabling the differentiation between motor and sensory signals. This breakthrough has vital applications in brain-computer interfaces and neuroprosthetics, where accurate decoding is crucial.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 3, 2022

Aromatase inhibitors are better than tamoxifen at reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence in premenopausal as well as postmenopausal women

A new study published in The Lancet Oncology found that aromatase inhibitors are more effective than tamoxifen at reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Aromatase inhibitors were shown to be particularly beneficial for younger women, reducing the risk of recurrence by 30%.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeMeta-analysis·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.

NYUAD study offers new insights about urban traffic management

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have published a comprehensive review of 50 fundamental traffic models using an extensive data set of 2.3 billion vehicle observations from 25 cities worldwide. The study found that a non-parametric model outperformed other traffic flow models, regardless of road type and congestion level.

SourceNew York University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateFeb 3, 2022

How affordable is housing in transit-oriented developments?

A study by Portland State University found that only 16 transit-oriented developments across the US were fully affordable to low- and moderate-income households. The research highlights the need for policies and regulations to promote affordable housing in TODs, such as requiring a share of affordable units in public property projects.

SourcePortland State University·DateFeb 3, 2022

Tracking SARS-CoV-2 during Tokyo 2020 via wastewater

A team of researchers used wastewater-based epidemiology to detect SARS-CoV-2 in more areas of the Olympic village than clinical testing indicated. The study found that daily screenings missed asymptomatic and post-quarantine patients, highlighting the need for alternative methods.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Travel Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022
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.

SARS-CoV-2 tracking, mitigation during in-person learning at a university

A study at a midwestern university examined the relationship between vaccine coverage and the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 variants during in-person learning. The results showed a correlation between higher vaccination rates and reduced spread of variants, highlighting the effectiveness of vaccines in mitigating COVID-19 transmission.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 3, 2022

Little test, big impact: dipstick screening for hematuria

Researchers in Japan evaluated the cost-effectiveness of adding dipstick hematuria screening to a mass health check-up program. The study found that including routine testing for hematuria would promote early detection and treatment, leading to cost savings and improved patient outcomes. This cost-effective approach has the potential t...

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalClinical and Experimental Nephrology·DateFeb 3, 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.

Astronomers trace galaxy flows across 700 million light years

Researchers tracked 10,000 galaxies and clusters over 11.5 billion years, revealing complex motions influenced by gravity and the Big Bang theory. The study provides new insights into the formation history of large-scale mass structures in the universe.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Which political ideologies make people more likely to dismiss the risk of COVID-19?

A study published in Risk Analysis found that individuals who endorse libertarianism and anti-egalitarianism attitudes are more likely to disregard COVID-19 risks. This suggests that simply identifying as liberal or conservative may not capture the full scope of political ideology's impact on attitudes toward science issues.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·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.

UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center scientists identify germline signature that predicts side effects from anti-PD1/PDL1 checkpoint therapy

Researchers have identified a germline biomarker signature that can predict serious side effects in up to 3 in 10 patients undergoing anti-PD1/PDL1 therapy. The findings represent an important step toward personalizing checkpoint therapy, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing harm.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

For the uninsured, crowdfunding provides little help in paying for health care and deepens inequities

A new study found that crowdfunding has limited success in helping people pay their medical bills, particularly in low-income and under-insured communities. Despite raising over $650 million annually, 33.8% of campaigns remain unfunded, highlighting the need for better health insurance coverage and social assistance programs.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Missing the bar: how people misinterpret data in bar graphs

Researchers at Wellesley College found that people frequently misinterpret bar graphs, with one in five graph readers categorically misunderstanding averages. The 'bar-tip limit error' occurs when viewers interpret the tip of the bar as the outer limit of the data, despite the average being the balanced center point.

SourceWellesley College·JournalJournal of Vision·TypeExperimental study·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.

A mathematical model may help explain how blood circulates in the brain

Researchers at UC3M have developed a mathematical model that analyzes the appearance of oscillations in flow networks, which may help explain how blood circulates in the brain. The model takes into account the size of the network and predicts the frequency of pressure oscillations.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPhysical Review·DateFeb 3, 2022

Precious metal commodities can enhance investment portfolio performance, say Pusan National University researchers

A study published in Applied Economics analyzed the relationship between precious metal commodities and equity markets, revealing that gold and aluminum are the most desirable metals for investment. The research also found that copper and zinc have the largest spillovers on global equity indices.

SourcePusan National University·JournalApplied Economics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·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.

Switch to dry powder inhaler more than halves carbon footprint of asthma treatment

A study found that switching from a metered dose inhaler to a dry powder version for maintenance therapy reduces the carbon footprint of people with asthma by more than half. The researchers conclude that this substitution is an acceptable and worthwhile option for most patients who can safely manage their condition at home.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThorax·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2022

Study indicates link between food insecurity and higher infant mortality rates in North Carolina

A new study by Wake Forest School of Medicine found a significant link between food insecurity and higher infant mortality rates in North Carolina. The study analyzed health data from all 100 counties in the state, finding that infants in North Carolina had a 36% higher mortality rate compared to national averages.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateFeb 3, 2022

USC discovery shows long-term viability of stem cell derived retinal implant

A USC discovery demonstrates the safety and efficacy of a stem-cell derived retinal implant for treating advanced dry age-related macular degeneration. The implant successfully improved visual function in some patients and survived without rejection for up to two years.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 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.

Dose-finding trial paves way for new rotavirus vaccine to prevent a deadly diarrheal disease from birth

A phase 2 clinical trial found that the Australian-developed neonatal rotavirus vaccine RV3-BB was safe and produced a robust immune response in African babies. The reduced dose of the vaccine generated an equivalent immune response as the highest dose, offering opportunities to reduce vaccine manufacturing costs.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2022

Focus on organic transistors for health sensors within living organisms

QUT researchers explore using organic transistors as wearable health sensors, promising comfortable wearability and efficient monitoring. The technology has the potential to revolutionize healthcare with applications in electrophysiology, neuron stimulation, and more.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 3, 2022

Silencing tool quashes gene activity across generations

Scientists have developed a gene-silencing tool that can quash gene activity across generations using small noncoding RNA molecules. This technique, called piRNAi, has expanded the molecular toolkit for gene manipulations and allows for more detailed investigations in nematode worms.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Methods·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Like peanut butter? This algorithm has a hunch as to what you'll buy next

Researchers developed an algorithm that incorporates customer behavior into recommendation systems, making more accurate and personalized suggestions. The technique, known as tensor decomposition, analyzes data in multiple dimensions to capture complex patterns and relationships.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 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.

Telehealth might be best as a supplement to office visits, not a replacement

A study by Tufts researchers found that telehealth appointments can be effective when augmenting in-person health-care visits, particularly for patients with chronic kidney disease. However, people of color were largely dissatisfied with telehealth due to concerns about care quality and lack of accessibility features.

SourceTufts University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2022

OSU study finds high levels of depression, anxiety among disabled people during COVID-19 pandemic

A new study from Oregon State University found that people with disabilities have been experiencing high levels of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social isolation was a major predictor for both conditions, exacerbated by limited access to healthcare, including delayed or canceled medical appointments.

SourceOregon State University·JournalRehabilitation Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 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.

New analysis of tsunami deposits paints a clearer picture of Sanriku's past

A new radiocarbon dating method has been developed to accurately date tsunami deposits, offering insights into past disasters and their frequency. Researchers have found that giant tsunamis have occurred at intervals of 100-200 years since the 1611 Keicho Oshu Tsunami.

SourceTohoku University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Do bikeshare systems complement or replace public transit?

Researchers found pedal bikes increased bus rides by 1%, while electric bikes took that to 2.1%. The system supported ridership, particularly for socioeconomically disadvantaged and young people.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·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.

Ovarian cancer therapy boosted by drug that slows disease’s advance

A clinical trial found that trametinib significantly slowed ovarian cancer progression by 13 months and increased treatment response by fourfold compared to standard care. The drug showed promise as a new standard of care for low-grade serous ovarian cancer, a common but difficult-to-treat form of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2022

New role for cyanide in early Earth and search for extraterrestrial life

Chemists at Scripps Research have found that cyanide can drive metabolic reactions to create carbon-based compounds from carbon dioxide, expanding our understanding of the origins of life on Earth and its potential for existing elsewhere. This discovery opens up new avenues for searching for extraterrestrial life.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 3, 2022

Poor sleep and stress exacerbate each other among nurses who work night shift, OSU study finds

A recent study by Oregon State University found that night shift nurses are more likely to suffer from poor sleep, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and inflammation. The researchers also discovered a significant disparity in sleep quality among Black nurses, highlighting the impact of systemic racism on their health.

SourceOregon State University·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 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.