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Science News Archive January 2022


Page 16 of 34

Imaging collagen – a new technique for therapeutics?

Researchers use matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) to track injected collagen in the heart. The technique allows for precise detection of therapeutic peptides and their distribution in the myocardial infarct.

To stop blood cancer, target the bone

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have found that targeting neighboring bone cells may be a better strategy than directly targeting blood cancer stem cells. By blocking the communication between leukemia cells and osteoblasts, the study suggests a new approach to treat acute myeloid leukemia.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A new approach to a $1 million mathematical enigma

Grant Remmen, a UC Santa Barbara physicist, has found an analogue that translates many of the Riemann zeta function's properties into quantum field theory. This approach may lead to a proof of the Riemann hypothesis, making it a significant breakthrough in mathematics.

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 windows can significantly reduce indoor pathogens

Researchers found that smart windows with dynamic tinting can completely disinfect surfaces within 24 hours, reducing bacterial growth rates and viability. In contrast, traditional windows with blinds blocked almost all daylight, promoting contamination on glass, plastic, and fabric surfaces.

SUTD sets its sights on chalcogenide nanostructured displays

Researchers from SUTD and A*STAR IMRE demonstrate the use of chalcogenide nanostructures to reversibly tune Mie resonances in the visible spectrum, paving the way for high resolution colour displays. The technology relies on phase change materials, including antimony trisulphide nanoparticles.

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.

Epilepsy research boosts case for new gene therapy for Dravet syndrome

Researchers developed a gene therapy called Targeted Augmentation of Nuclear Gene Output (TANGO), which boosts SCN1A protein production in brain cells. The treatment restored normal cell function and reduced seizures in lab mice with Dravet syndrome, offering hope for the first direct treatment of the fundamental cause.

Antifreeze cream prevents frostbite injuries to skin

Researchers have developed a cream that prevents frostbite injuries in mice when applied to the skin before severe cold exposure. The cream, called SynAFP, reduces frostbite wound size and speeds healing compared to no treatment. Further studies are needed to determine its effects on humans.

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.

Undescended testis: fate of fertility predicted by blood biomarkers

A recent study published in The Journal of Urology found that serum hormone ratios can predict the risk of future infertility in children with cryptorchidism. Researchers discovered that inhibin B levels and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) are significant markers of spermatogenesis, helping to identify boys at high risk of infertility.

Hubble finds a black hole igniting star formation in a dwarf galaxy

Astronomers have discovered that a black hole at the center of the Henize 2-10 galaxy is actively promoting new star formation, with newborn clusters spotted along an outflow of gas stretching 230 light-years from the black hole. This finding sheds light on the origins of supermassive black holes in the early universe.

New simulations can improve avalanche forecasting

Researchers developed a new avalanche forecasting method using computer simulations of snow cover, which can detect weak layers and identify hazard in a different way. The approach showed consistent results with observed frequencies over 16 years, offering potential to support forecasting in the future.

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.

Scientists find previously unknown jumping behavior in insects

Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered a unique jumping behavior in the larvae of a species of beetle, where they curl into a loop and leap forward. The mechanism behind this behavior is distinct from other insects that rely on a latch-mediated spring actuation mechanism.

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.

Why don’t people with COVID-19 symptoms get tested?

A new study of over 4 million adults in the UK found that people with COVID-19 symptoms are less likely to get tested due to barriers such as mild symptoms, poor knowledge of nearby testing sites, and certain demographic factors. The study suggests that targeted messaging and improved education are needed to increase test uptake.

Persistent T cell response to omicron after infection and vaccination

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that memory T cells formed after previous infection or mRNA vaccination can still recognize the omicron variant, suggesting protection against severe disease. The study also suggests booster immunization may provide benefits beyond neutralizing antibodies.

Selective membrane may cycle dual-ion batteries closer to reality

Researchers have developed a new selective membrane technology that significantly improves the cycling stability of dual-ion batteries. The innovative approach decouples negatively charged anions from solvents, preventing co-intercalation and electrolyte corrosion, leading to enhanced oxidation resistance.

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.

Clinical score can guide PRRT therapy decisions for neuroendocrine tumors

A clinical score system developed by Vanderbilt researchers can guide PRRT treatment decisions, indicating that patients with a score of 4 or less may experience improved progression-free and overall survival. The study suggests that a minimum of three doses are needed to achieve meaningful DNA damage in neuroendocrine tumors.

Dynamics of mega earthquakes and tsunamis unraveled

Researchers identify three key regional factors controlling subduction zone earthquakes and tsunamis. The study's unified model explains the physical processes during a major earthquake and tsunami, accounting for complex fault geometry and rock behavior.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Low-cost drug Heparin effective and safe treatment for COVID-19

Researchers found that inhaling heparin improves breathing and oxygen levels in 70% of COVID-19 patients, with the drug also showing anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-coagulant effects. This low-cost treatment could provide a safe and effective option for patients in poorer countries where vaccination is challenging.

UCR scientists discover tarantula-killing worms

Scientists at UCR have discovered a new species of nematode parasite that infects and kills tarantulas, exhibiting strange behaviors like walking on tiptoe and loss of fang control. The parasite, Tarantobelus jeffdanielsi, is named after actor Jeff Daniels, who saved fictional spiders in the 1990 film Arachnophobia.

California marijuana growers can’t take much to the bank

A new study shows that California's legalized marijuana industry has boosted financial institutions' assets and loan activity, but restricted access to banking perpetuates inequities for licensed growers. The research highlights the need for regulatory changes to create new opportunities for both industries.

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.

The Xa Factor: pushing back on Atherosclerosis

Researchers found that Rivaroxaban reduces atherosclerosis progression by inhibiting factor Xa-PAR2 mediated macrophage autophagy and inflammasome activity. The study suggests RIV as a potential anti-atherosclerotic drug, offering hope for treating this fatal disease.

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 sensor grids record human brain signals in record-breaking resolution

The new sensor grids offer 100 times higher resolution than existing technology, allowing for more precise identification of seizure origins and preservation of healthy brain tissue. Longer term, the technology holds potential for permanent implantation to improve life quality for people with paralysis or neurodegenerative diseases.

Groundbreaking AI technology diagnoses Covid-19 “in minutes”

The AI programme utilises x-ray technology to compare scans to a database of Covid-19 images, making a diagnosis with over 98% accuracy. The technique has the potential to relieve strain on hard-pressed hospitals, particularly in countries where PCR tests are not readily available.

TV watching linked with potentially fatal blood clots

A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that prolonged TV watching is associated with a higher risk of blood clots, including pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. To reduce this risk, scientists recommend taking breaks every 30 minutes to stand and stretch or using a stationary bike.

COVID’s environmental impact: Positives and negatives

The COVID-19 pandemic had both positive and negative impacts on environmental pollution and carbon emissions. The study found that water quality improved globally due to reduced commercial activities, while air pollutants like NO2 and CO decreased in most regions. However, sulphur dioxide and ozone levels increased, and soil contaminat...

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.

The novel flight style that helps the smallest beetles to excel

A team of researchers describes a novel flight style in the smallest free-living insects, beetles of the featherwing family. They found that these insects use a bristled wing style and rowing movements to excel at flight, defying conventional wisdom about insect aerodynamics.

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.

Fish study shows role of oestrogens in sense of smell

A new study has discovered a type of astrocyte glial cell, named EROB cells, that responds to oestrogens and is involved in the development of the sense of smell in zebrafish embryos. The research shows that oestrogens regulate the development of the olfactory sensory system via these cells.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2: a therapeutic trial opens new avenues

A recent clinical trial conducted by Prof. Alexandra Durr's team found that riluzole does not improve symptoms in patients with spinocerebellar ataxia type 2, but provided valuable biomarkers for future trials. The study involved 45 patients and revealed a good tolerance and absence of adverse effects.

Study shows the impact of preemergent herbicides on native plants

A study by Montana State University found that preemergent herbicide indaziflam is effective in controlling non-native annual mustard plants, but negatively impacts native forbs, reducing their richness by approximately 50%. The use of indaziflam may need to be limited to areas with less native vegetation.

Prescribed fires can help restore biodiversity to Great Plains

Researchers found that large, intense and controlled burns increased grassland bird richness by 85% in targeted areas. The study suggests that targeted grassland restoration focusing on preventing woody plant encroachment will be most successful in conserving and increasing grassland bird diversity.

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.

Artificial intelligence may reduce frequency of adverse drug events

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital conducted a scoping review of 78 articles to identify key use cases for AI in preventing or mitigating adverse drug events (ADEs). Genetic information is thought to be critical in improving AI algorithm performance, but systematic evaluations are necessary to generate evidence for this field.

Kombucha water filters can resist clogging better than commercial options

Researchers have discovered that living filtration membranes made from kombucha cultures can resist fouling and maintain faster filtering rates compared to conventional polymer membranes. This breakthrough could lead to an inexpensive, biodegradable, and effective way to treat water, tackling issues such as biofilm formation and clogging.