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Science News Archive February 2022 - Page 4


Page 4 of 40

Protein activity reveals new childhood ALL combination treatment strategy

Scientists at the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology discovered a new combination treatment strategy for childhood T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) by analyzing protein activity. The study found that blocking specific proteins, such as LCK and SRC, in combination with an overactive chain reaction of INSR/IGF-1R, k...

SourcePrincess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 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.

Change of scenery: New research outlines how recreation will shift with climate change in the west

New research outlines how climate change will shift the future of outdoor recreation in the West, with campsites becoming too hot, ski resorts experiencing fluctuating snowpacks, and rivers facing low water levels. The study provides activity-specific adaptation strategies to prepare for these consequences.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalJournal of Forestry·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 25, 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.

Sensor monitors disease severity

Scientists at Hokkaido University developed a prototype sensor to rapidly measure adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and lactate levels in blood samples. The sensor's sensitivity allows for the accurate detection of these molecules, enabling rapid assessment of disease severity.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2022

China's high-quality natural streamflow gauge-based dataset (1961–2018)

A new, high-quality natural streamflow dataset for China has been developed, achieving high skill metric values and reducing biases in hydrological simulations. The dataset covers all 330 catchments from 1961 to 2018 and has important implications for understanding hydrological processes and river management activities.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateFeb 25, 2022

Machine learning helps to identify climatic thresholds that shape the distribution of natural vegetation

A study using machine learning identifies climatic thresholds driving vegetation distribution, highlighting the importance of extreme climate conditions for savannas and deciduous forests. The findings provide valuable insights for improving process-based vegetation models and their coupling with Earth System Models.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 25, 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.

The protective armor of superbug C.difficile revealed

Researchers have discovered the structure of C.difficile's protective armor, a chain-mail like layer that prevents molecules from entering the cell. This discovery opens the possibility of designing specific drugs to target the armor and kill the cell.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 25, 2022

Machine learning antibiotic prescriptions can help minimize resistance spread

Researchers developed an antibiotic prescribing algorithm using genomic sequencing and machine learning analysis, reducing the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacterial infections. The algorithm matches an antibiotic to a patient's past infection history and microbiome to minimize resistance spread.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 25, 2022

Graphene sensor rapidly detects opioid metabolites in wastewater

A novel graphene-based field effect transistors (FETs) device can detect four different synthetic and natural opioids at once in wastewater. The device uses aptamers to trap opioid metabolites, enabling real-time monitoring with high geographical resolution and low cost.

SourceBoston College·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists’ discovery is one step closer to more effective COVID-19 treatment with immune modulatory drugs

A recent study by CU Anschutz researchers advances the understanding of the immune system during COVID-19, focusing on the interferon response. The findings provide a new model for staging COVID-19 pathology and have important therapeutic implications for treating severe cases.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 25, 2022

Death spiral: A black hole spins on its side

Researchers from the University of Turku found that a black hole's axis of rotation is tilted more than 40 degrees relative to the orbiting stellar body. This extreme misalignment challenges current theoretical models and opens up new prospects for studying black hole formation and evolution.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalScience·DateFeb 25, 2022

New data finds Tumor Treating Fields initiates downstream anti-tumor response

A new study finds that Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) activate the immune system and trigger an anti-tumor cell response, potentially effectively used together with immunotherapy approaches. TTFields' unique mechanism of action induces a downstream signaling pathway that initiates an active immune response against cancer cells.

SourceNovocure·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 25, 2022

Ultrasounds for abalone

Researchers from University of California - Davis found that ultrasounds can detect when abalone are ready to spawn without touching them. The technique creates a gonad index score ranging from 1 to 5 indicating readiness for reproduction.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 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.

Reviving a failed network through microscopic interventions

Bar-Ilan University researchers develop a two-step recovery process to revive failed networks by restructuring damaged links and reigniting the entire system through controlled node activation. This approach has shown promise in steering a failed microbiome back to functionality, particularly with probiotic interventions.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 25, 2022

Nudging acceptance of alternative proteins

A recent study by SMU Associate Professors Mark Chong and Angela Leung found that the ultimate form and presentation of alternative protein products significantly impact their acceptance by consumers. Focusing on the end product and framing alternative proteins as a positive highlight of an exciting food future may foster greater accep...

SourceSingapore Management University·DateFeb 25, 2022

Scientists target protein to lower risk of prostate cancer spread

Cedars-Sinai investigators discover that inhibiting RIPK2 function with drugs or CRISPR/Cas9 reduces prostate cancer metastasis in mice, offering new hope for advanced prostate cancer treatment. Targeting this protein could extend patients' lives by several years.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 25, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Research team makes breakthrough discovery in light interactions with nanoparticles, paving the way for advances in optical computing

A research team at CUNY ASRC made a breakthrough discovery in nanomaterials and light-wave interactions that enables small, low-energy optical computers capable of advanced computing. The discovery demonstrates unprecedented speeds and nearly zero energy demands for solving complex mathematical problems.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 25, 2022

Desire to travel increases likelihood of COVID-19 vaccination, study says

A new study from Washington State University finds that people with a strong desire to travel are more likely to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The research also reveals that emotional appeals and loss-based messaging can be effective in changing vaccine intentions.

SourceWashington State University·JournalTourism Management·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 25, 2022

ADHD linked to hoarding behaviour – new study

A new study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that people with ADHD are significantly more likely to exhibit clinically significant hoarding symptoms. Approximately 19% of participants displayed hoarding symptoms, which can lead to distress and difficulties in everyday life.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 25, 2022

Higher levels of biodiversity appear to reduce extinction risk in birds

A new University of Michigan study found that higher levels of biodiversity reduce extinction risk in birds by providing a safe harbor for species at risk. The researchers used a comprehensive dataset covering over 99% of bird species and found diverse communities protect these species, allowing them to persist.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEcology Letters·DateFeb 25, 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.

Repurposing FDA-approved drugs may help combat COVID-19

Scientists identified 16 compounds that affect SARS-CoV-2 enzymes Mpro and PLpro, which are essential for viral replication. The team found that combining Mpro and PLpro inhibitors has an additive antiviral effect, providing greater inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication. These findings offer hope for developing new COVID-19 treatments t...

SourcePenn State·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 25, 2022

Researchers discover more about what causes atherosclerosis

A study published in Science Immunology reveals that a specific neurotransmitter in immune cells plays a crucial role in cholesterol accumulation and sterile inflammation in atherosclerosis. The researchers found that blocking this neurotransmitter may help reduce inflammation and develop effective treatments for the disease.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 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.

Rapid emergence of new SARS-CoV2 variants due to the virus’ ability to momentarily accelerate its evolutionary pace

Researchers have found that SARS-CoV-2 variants can emerge more quickly than expected, driven by a short-lived increase in mutation rate. This phenomenon was observed in variants such as Delta, which emerged within six weeks of its ancestral form.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Walkable neighborhoods can reduce prevalence of obesity, diabetes

Research found walkable neighborhoods with access to parks and outdoor activities are associated with a lower risk of obesity and diabetes. Studies showed that living in highly walkable areas reduced the incidence of pre-diabetes by up to 50% compared to low walkability areas.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrine Reviews·DateFeb 24, 2022

Fewer than half of K-12 PE teachers use high-quality instruction with disabled students, study finds

A recent study from Oregon State University found that fewer than half of K-12 physical educators use high-quality instruction practices for students with disabilities. The majority of teachers were highly qualified, but lacked specific training in adaptive physical education, leading to many disabled students being excluded from PE cl...

SourceOregon State University·JournalAdapted Physical Activity Quarterly·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 24, 2022

Antibacterial bioactive glass doubles down on microbial resistance to antibiotics

Aston University researchers have developed a technique to boost antimicrobial properties of bioactive glass, which could reduce infections and antibiotic prescriptions. The new approach combines metal oxides, significantly improving bacterial kill rates over single oxides alone.

SourceAston University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 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.

Smart packaging could improve how older adults take medication

A study found that older adults are open to using smart packaging to track their medication, with ease of use and social support being key factors. However, device size, cost, and inconsistent technology usage were major drawbacks, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to assess patient needs before recommending these products.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 24, 2022

Two new studies find positive health outcomes of mango consumption

Two new studies found that regular mango consumption is associated with better overall diet quality, higher intakes of essential nutrients like fiber and potassium, and improved glucose control. Mango snacking was also shown to reduce inflammation and improve antioxidant capacity compared to other sweet snacks.

SourceWild Hive·JournalNutrients·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 24, 2022

The secret of mycorrhizal fungi

Researchers found that forest trees with a mix of both ectomycorrhiza and arbuscular mycorrhiza had the greatest tree diversity, contradicting previous beliefs. This discovery highlights the importance of considering the coexistence of different mycorrhizal strategies in promoting plant biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 24, 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.

Front-of-package claims and images persuade parents that sugar-sweetened drinks are healthy choices for their young children

Research reveals that sugar-sweetened fruit-flavored drinks and toddler milks are misleadingly marketed as healthy options for young children. Experts confirm that these products contain high amounts of added sugars, non-nutritive sweeteners, and little to no juice.

SourceUConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity·JournalMaternal and Child Nutrition·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 24, 2022

Anti-tumor drug promotes weight loss in mice

A new study found that an anti-tumor drug, camptothecin, can activate a natural hunger-suppressing pathway in mice, leading to significant weight loss. The mechanism involves the elevation of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), which suppresses food intake and reduces body weight.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Soil testing supports minesite rehabilitation

Researchers used soil microbial communities to track progress and predict post-mining recovery timeframes, offering a new approach for measuring rehabilitation success. The study found that effective rehabilitation can set up a predictable trajectory of recovery, taking 40-60 years to reach the target ecosystem.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Cancer: When viruses and bacteria cooperate

Researchers have found that HPV and Chlamydia pathogens work together to reprogram cells, leading to cancer. The study used 3D organoids to investigate the interactions between the pathogens and tissues affected by disease.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 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.

Savvy sheep: new research explores flexible decision-making for bighorn sheep migration

Bighorn sheep use a combination of past experience and visual information about habitat quality to make informed migratory decisions. The research found that these perception-informed decisions allow the species to better adapt to changing environmental conditions, increasing their chances of survival.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 24, 2022

Revealing new states in 2D materials

Researchers from the University of Würzburg have discovered new states in 2D materials by exploring their interactions with phonons. This breakthrough enables the creation of hybridized exciton-photon-phonon states, which could lead to room-temperature Bose-Einstein condensation and polariton lasing.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Tumor tissue modified viral (TTMV)-HPV DNA biomarker test predicts recurrence of HPV-driven oropharynx cancer after treatment

A blood test detecting circulating tumor DNA can accurately predict recurrence of HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer following treatment. The biomarker test may detect recurrent disease earlier than imaging or other standard methods, allowing physicians to personalize treatment more quickly for patients whose cancer returns.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateFeb 24, 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.

New methods for network visualizations enable change of perspectives and views

Researchers developed a new method for generating network layouts that allow for visualizing different information in two- and three-dimensional virtual space. This facilitates the exploration of complex protein interactions and provides more versatile, comprehensible representations of networks.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Computational Science·DateFeb 24, 2022

Guidance from Hungarian chemists shapes the catalysts of the future

Researchers from Eötvös Loránd University have created a more efficient method for producing catalysts, which can speed up chemical transformations and reduce environmental impact. This breakthrough could lead to faster drug development and improved pesticide production.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 24, 2022

When muscles inexorably shrink

Researchers found that iron supplementation can sustain muscle function, mass, and survival in mouse models of colon cancer. In humans, a small group experienced moderate strength improvement after iron injection, suggesting potential benefits for cachexia sufferers.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Improving eye health essential to achieving Sustainable Development Goals

A new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that improved eye health services are associated with moving closer to achieving seven SDGs. Multiple direct connections were discovered between eye health services and increased productivity, household expenditure, income, education, and equality.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateFeb 24, 2022

Ridgecrest shows how earthquakes damage Earth’s crust

A team of scientists studied the surface rupture caused by two major earthquakes in July 2019 near Ridgecrest, California. They found that the rock surrounding the fault suffered from 'inelastic deformation', resulting in a softer crust that dissipates energy from future earthquakes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 24, 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.

Assessment of sudden hearing loss after COVID-19 vaccination

A study analyzing 185 million COVID-19 vaccine doses found no connection between vaccination and sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The results indicate that vaccination is not associated with the development of this condition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateFeb 24, 2022

Researchers boost reliability of low-power alternative to flash memory

Ferroelectric random access memory (FeRAM) faces reliability challenges due to 'imprint' and 'fatigue'. A novel hafnium-based material has addressed these issues by reducing the impact of charge injection, leading to a 90% improvement in performance. High-temperature baking of capacitors also enhances performance.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateFeb 24, 2022

Cutting through the noise

A collaboration between Berkeley Lab researchers developed a novel approach to mitigate noise in quantum computers, enabling reliable results from IBM quantum computers. The new method combines three other techniques to correct errors, allowing for bigger simulations and tackling complex problems.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 24, 2022