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Science News Archive January 2022


Page 1 of 34

Landing therapeutic genes safely in the human genome

A team of researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute and ETH Zurich have developed a computational approach to identify genomic safe harbors (GSHs) with high potential for safe insertion of therapeutic genes. The study validated two GSH sites in adoptive T cell therapies and in vivo gene therapies for skin diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2022

Scientists use 'sticky' DNA to build organized structures of gel blocks

Researchers used microscopic strands of DNA to guide the assembly of gel blocks that self-assembled in around 10-15 minutes. The process was highly specific and easily programmable, allowing the blocks to interact with each other in different ways by changing the sequence of DNA.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Molecular machine in nano cage

Researchers have successfully created a supramolecular rotor enclosed in a cube-shaped porphyrin cage molecule, showcasing the potential for molecular nanomachines to be controlled remotely. The molecular gyroscope's movements can be triggered by light and exhibit stochastic dynamics.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChem·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 31, 2022

“Do you see what I see?” study shows cross-cultural variation in maternal focus during parent-child interactions

A new study examined caregiver-child interaction in the US and Japan, finding that mothers directed their children's attention differently and Japanese children shifted their attention to become more sensitive to contextual background. The research provides insights into the role of social interaction and cultural diversity in cognitiv...

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateJan 31, 2022

Midwestern beef production works just as well off pasture

Research shows that cow-calf pairs can be managed in drylots throughout the summer grazing period without significant negative effects on growth performance, lactation, and reproductive rates. Calves raised in drylots had increased performance compared to pasture-raised calves, but still showed signs of stress during weaning.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJan 31, 2022

New imaging method reveals causes of cerebral oedema

A new imaging method, rapidFLIM, has been developed to depict cellular processes leading to cerebral oedema in real-time. The study reveals that the TRPV4 ion channel plays a key role in sodium dysregulation during ischemic strokes.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalJNeurosci·DateJan 31, 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.

Landmark research shows increase in online sex blackmailing during pandemic

A recent study found that men were twice as likely to be victims of online sex blackmailing during the pandemic. Young people, Black and Native American women, and LGBTQ individuals were also at high risk of this cyber-enabled crime. The study revealed race and sexuality-related differences in rates of sextortion.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalVictims & Offenders·TypeSurvey·DateJan 31, 2022

2D material in three dimensions

Scientists at Vienna University of Technology have successfully integrated large surface areas of graphene into limited volumes by producing it on complex branched nanostructures. This breakthrough enables increased storage capacity for hydrogen and higher sensitivity in chemical sensors.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

Study examines years of life lost to adolescents, young adults to unintentional drug overdose

A study by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center analyzed years of life lost due to unintentional drug overdose among adolescents (13-19) and young adults (20-39) in the US. The findings suggest a significant burden of overdose-related mortality in this age group, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 31, 2022

Small group of genetic variants found in extremely ill patients with COVID may help explain big differences in how sick people get

Researchers identified seven rare structural variants affecting 31 genes in severely ill COVID-19 patients, shedding light on individual responses to the virus. These genetic variations may help explain differences in illness severity and suggest potential targets for early intervention.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournaliScience·DateJan 31, 2022

The two types of climate coping and what they mean for your health

A study by University of Arizona researcher Sabrina Helm identified two prevailing climate change coping profiles: adaptive approach coping and maladaptive avoidance coping. The adaptive approach group tends to engage in pro-environmental behaviors and express concern about climate change, while the maladaptive avoidance group is less ...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAnxiety Stress & Coping·DateJan 31, 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 reveal mechanism for colon pain and inflammation

Scientists have identified a key receptor in the digestive tract that triggers pain and inflammation in the colon. By blocking this receptor from entering cells, researchers found significant reduction in pain and inflammation. This discovery holds promise for treating inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2022

Employment fears may explain rise of extremist parties across Europe

A new study by the University of Birmingham finds that employment fears and precarity are driving the rise of popular extremist parties across Europe. The 'precariat' – disaffected citizens feeling insecure about their jobs – is voting for radical populist parties on both the right and left.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalSociological Research Online·DateJan 31, 2022

‘Traveling’ nature of brain waves may help working memory work

Researchers found that brain waves travel in rotating patterns across the prefrontal cortex during working memory tasks, potentially aiding information storage. These waves provide a regularly recurring stimulation with precise timing, promoting strengthening connections between neurons and possibly facilitating predictions.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

Mitigating the effects of gender bias in clinical trials

Researchers at Technion have developed a technology that compensates for the underrepresentation of women in clinical trials, using machine learning models. The tool improves predictions for women in various situations and also enhances overall clinical predictions, leading to better personalized medicine.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 31, 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.

New mouse model developed for researching COVID-19

Researchers at MedUni Vienna have developed a new Covid-19 mouse model that can be used to study the disease mechanisms and develop effective treatments. The model uses viral mutations that enable efficient virus infection and replication in mice, allowing for the study of symptoms and potential therapies.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournaleLife·DateJan 31, 2022

9,000 tree species yet to be discovered on Earth

A new study estimates that there are approximately 73,300 tree species on Earth, with 9,000 yet to be discovered. The majority of these unknown species are rare and endemic to specific regions, particularly South America.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2022

Towards greener smart cities with machine learning-based “sleep schedules”

Researchers developed a novel scheme that reduces energy consumption while improving traffic prediction accuracy by up to 40% compared to benchmark schemes. The scheme uses software defined network and edge computing to control the operation of base stations, ensuring both sustainability and performance.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 31, 2022

Making RNA vaccines easier to swallow

Researchers at MIT have developed a pill that can deliver RNA to the stomach, potentially making vaccines easier to tolerate and treat gastrointestinal diseases. The capsule is designed to release RNA in the stomach, where it can stimulate an immune response without being degraded by digestive enzymes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·DateJan 31, 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.

Machine learning fine-tunes flash graphene

Rice University scientists employ machine-learning techniques to streamline the process of synthesizing graphene from waste through flash Joule heating. The lab used its custom optimization model to improve graphene crystallization from four starting materials over 173 trials.

SourceRice University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

Foamy cells inspire better way to predict heart attacks

Researchers have discovered a new method to predict heart attacks by analyzing the gene expression of foamy macrophages, revealing a person's cardiovascular health. The study found that foamy cells can be both beneficial and detrimental depending on their behavior in individuals with certain conditions.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCirculation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 31, 2022

Reducing COVID-19 risk during dentist appointments

A study by the University of Leeds found that changing drills from air-powered to electric drills can significantly reduce aerosol spray and create a safer environment for patients and dental teams. The research resulted in a 99.98% reduction in virus spread, potentially allowing millions more treatments to be carried out.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJan 31, 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.

New study suggests an alternative technique for determining the true activity of catalysts

Researchers from Waseda University have developed an alternative technique, sampled current voltammetry (SCV), to accurately determine the activity of electrocatalysts used in water-splitting reactions. The study shows that SCV can provide reliable measurements of electrocatalytic performance at constant steady-state applied voltages.

SourceWaseda University·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

Researchers develop molecular traps to target SARS-CoV-2

Scientists at UC Riverside and UCLA have engineered nanoparticles to serve as 'molecular traps' that bind to SARS-CoV-2, preventing it from attacking macrophages and inducing inflammation. The findings suggest potential therapeutic strategies for treating COVID-19-associated diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalTheranostics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 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.

Ever wondered how many tree species live on our planet?

A new global dataset reveals approximately 73,000 tree species, highlighting the vulnerability of global forest biodiversity to climate change and land use. The research, led by Professor Andy Marshall, also identifies a 'hot spot' of likely undiscovered species in northeast Australia and the Pacific Islands.

SourceUniversity of the Sunshine Coast·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 31, 2022

The impacts of impacts

KAUST researchers have found that even low-speed solid-liquid impacts can cause cavitation and generate damaging shock waves. This challenges previous assumptions about the effects of such impacts. The team used high-speed cameras to study the impact of a flat-bottomed cylinder on a pool of liquid, observing that pressures below a cert...

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

Are cities the key to the electric revolution?

Newcastle University researchers argue that cities can use local policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. The authors highlight the importance of balancing demand pull-ins with technology push-ins to overcome barriers and enablers. Cities' own fleets, procurement systems, and fiscal powers can also help s...

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Electronics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 31, 2022

Low volcanic temperature ushered in global cooling and the thriving of dinosaurs

Researchers found that low volcanic temperatures caused high sulfur dioxide emissions, leading to short-term cooling and contributing to the fourth mass extinction. The study suggests that this cooling enabled small-bodied dinosaurs to grow and prosper, ultimately thriving during the Jurassic period.

SourceTohoku University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJan 31, 2022

Key growth factor protects gut from inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers discovered a key growth factor protein, HB-EGF, produced by immune-regulating cells that protects the gut against inflammatory bowel disease. ILC3s produce HB-EGF to counteract TNF-induced inflammation and maintain gut barrier function.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 31, 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.

Dartmouth study assesses how consumers interpret and act on results from at-home COVID-19 self tests

A Dartmouth study reveals that consumers using at-home COVID-19 self tests may misinterpret the implications of their test results, leading to either unnecessary or inadequate quarantine. The study suggests that individuals at high risk for infection should still quarantine after a negative test result.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 31, 2022

The importance of infections in patients with cirrhosis

Researchers at MUSC found that fungal infections are common in cirrhosis patients, often resistant to antibiotics. Patients with cirrhosis are immunocompromised and need proactive infection management.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalThe American Journal of Medical Sciences and Pharmaceutical Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 31, 2022

People are fast and accurate when making high-value decisions

A new study reveals that people are more accurate and faster when making high-value decisions than previously thought. Researchers found that participants could distinguish between high-value items quickly and accurately, even with the added complexity of knowing what type of decision they were about to make.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 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.

Localis-rex: a new tool for studying electrophile signaling

Localis-rex identifies 32 locale-specific sensor proteins sensing hydroxynonenal, a lipid-derived electrophilic-metabolite, revealing new information on electrophile signaling and its impact on biological processes. The study also highlights the potential for covalent drug design and profiling of drug-sensitive cells.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2022

Research by Cedars-Sinai OB-GYN experts featured at scientific conference

Cedars-Sinai OB-GYN experts present research on improving preeclampsia detection through AI-powered analysis of electronic health records. They also explore the relationship between incomplete information on vaccine side effects and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, highlighting the need for targeted preventive therapies. Furthermore, the te...

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·DateJan 31, 2022

Burst of radiation and vesicles-based immunotherapy suppress brain cancer growth

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed a safe and effective strategy to treat glioblastoma using short bursts of radiation therapy and nanoparticle-based immunotherapy. The combined approach suppresses tumor growth, induces anti-tumor immunity, and prolongs survival in animal models.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

2D materials under the microscope

Researchers review current research on 2D materials, highlighting their potential for quantum light sources and integrated circuits. The scientists also discuss recent advances in hybrid devices and scalable quantum photonic technologies.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalNature Reviews Physics·DateJan 31, 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.

First-of-its-kind estimate of the total number of tree species

A global collaboration of scientists has estimated that there are approximately 73,300 tree species in the world today, with more than 9,000 still undiscovered. This estimate is based on a massive dataset of over 38 million trees spanning 90 countries and 100 territories.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2022

A neuron that tracks landmarks helps rats know where they are

Dartmouth researchers identified a new type of neuron in the rat brain that facilitates visual and spatial processing by tracking visual landmarks. The postrhinal cortex neurons can fire in two directions depending on the environment, allowing rats to estimate their direction.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2022

Special testing of kidney tissue from deceased COVID-19 donor documents safe transplantation of the organ, Johns Hopkins researchers report

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully transplanted a kidney from a COVID-19 donor, demonstrating that healthy kidneys from such donors can be safely transplanted. The recipient has shown no signs or symptoms of the virus and has excellent kidney function since the transplant.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJan 31, 2022

Connecting obesity, diabetes and the immune system using bioinformatics

A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that people with diabetes have more macrophages in their fat tissue, particularly the anti-inflammatory CD206+ subtype. This subtype is unique in terms of gene expression and may play a role in the development of diabetes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJCI Insight·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 31, 2022

UC-led research first to show benefits of police de-escalation training

A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that de-escalation training improves outcomes, resulting in 28% fewer use-of-force incidents and 26% fewer citizen injuries. The study demonstrated statistically significant reductions in police officer injuries as well.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCriminology & Public Policy·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 31, 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.

When job seekers are “overqualified,” gender bias may come into play

A new UC San Diego study reveals that overqualified women are more likely to be hired for jobs and ranks compared to sufficiently qualified men. Hiring managers assume overqualified women leave due to gender discrimination, rather than flight risk. This suggests firms may not be utilizing their expertise and experience effectively.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalOrganization Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

CHOP researchers define a 3-tiered molecular classification of pediatric differentiated thyroid cancer, where fusion oncogenes predict the most invasive behavior

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia define a 3-tiered molecular classification system for pediatric differentiated thyroid cancer, where fusion oncogenes are associated with more invasive disease and lower remission rates. The study contrasts findings from adults, who have a two-tiered system based on BRAF mutations.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 31, 2022

'Hypervisibility' for black girls; 'invisibility' for black women

Research by Aerika Loyd and her team found that microaggressions against Black adolescents are more subtle, but still impactful, and can lead to poor mental health and academic problems. Positive thinking is a helpful coping mechanism for both girls and women, reducing externalized symptoms and mental health impacts.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateJan 31, 2022

Nathan Dautenhahn wins CAREER Award

Nathan Dautenhahn, a Rice University computer scientist, has received a prestigious CAREER Award to develop 'Least-Authority Virtual Architecture' (LAVA) strategy for retrofitting existing products with meaningful firewalling. This approach aims to systematically analyze and optimize security boundaries in complex systems.

SourceRice University·DateJan 31, 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.

Engineers design a quieter future for drones and flying cars

Engineers at the University of Cincinnati are working on designing quieter drones and flying cars to minimize noise pollution. By manipulating sound through engineering design, they aim to create vehicles that are imperceptible in their environment, reducing disruptions to lower-income neighborhoods and daily life for millions.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

Researchers use mobile device data to predict COVID-19 outbreaks

A novel analysis applied to anonymous location information from mobile devices helped health officials stem community outbreaks and allocate testing resources. The study successfully predicted initial waves of cases, localized outbreaks, and areas of high transmission risk.

SourceYale School of Public Health·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 31, 2022

Researchers discover locations of ancient Maya sacred groves of cacao trees

Researchers have identified locations of ancient Maya sacred groves containing cacao trees, which played a crucial role in rituals and trade routes. The discovery sheds light on the economic, political, and spiritual significance of cacao in Mesoamerican culture.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 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.