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Science News for January 7, 2022


USTC reveals nonequilibrium mechanism of bacterial flagellar motor switching

The study proposes a novel nonequilibrium mechanism for allosteric regulation of motor switching, based on precise measurement of the bacterial flagellar motor's switching dynamics at stall. This mechanism has implications for other molecular motors and explains dynamic properties under all loads uniformly.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 7, 2022

USTC finds a new way out for flexible electronics

Researchers at USTC create flexible electronic systems using thermoplastic polyurethane and liquid metal, enabling high-performance, stretchable, and reconfigurable devices. The technology addresses environmental and energy concerns with recyclability and reconfigurability.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 7, 2022

Data confirm link between respiratory stress and fish reproduction

Research confirms that fish become sexually active and spawn due to growth-induced respiratory stress. The study found a consistent metabolic ratio across 133 species of fish, which supports the idea that reproduction is initiated by changes in oxygen supply and demand.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Fish Biology·DateJan 7, 2022

Heat rectification via suspended asymmetric graphene nanomesh

Researchers at JAIST have demonstrated a high thermal rectification ratio on suspended asymmetric graphene nanomesh devices at low temperatures. The device shows promise for developing a high-efficiency thermal rectifier based on graphene nanomesh structure.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNano Futures·DateJan 7, 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.

Decreasing cancer drugs’ side effects

Scientists develop hairy cellulose nanocrystals to capture and remove excess chemotherapy drugs from the blood. The nanocrystals effectively removed over 6,000 milligrams of doxorubicin per gram, increasing DOX capture by two to three orders of magnitude compared to existing methods.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalMaterials Today Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2022

Study sets framework for precision surveillance of colorectal cancer

Researchers have revealed mechanisms by which polyps develop into colorectal cancer, setting the stage for improved surveillance utilizing precision medicine. The study found that serrated polyps derive from metaplasia, an abnormal change of cells into non-native tissue.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2022

Novel brainstem circuit gives rise to the rhythms of vocalization

UCSF researchers discovered a small cluster of neurons in the brain stem that regulates tempo and coordinates breathing with vocalization. This finding has implications for understanding speech pathologies, as altered wiring in this system may cause difficulties with speaking.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeuron·DateJan 7, 2022

New: COVAX results

A registry study found that people with inflammatory RMDs, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, tolerate their COVID vaccine well, with short-lived reactions being the most common side effect. The majority of participants were able to continue on their normal medication with no changes.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJan 7, 2022

How the brain’s blue spot helps us focus our attention

The locus coeruleus, a tiny cell structure in the brainstem, regulates our brain's sensitivity to relevant information. Noradrenaline, produced by the blue spot, modulates alpha oscillations, allowing us to focus attention.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 7, 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.

JNM publishes appropriate use criteria for prostate-specific membrane antigen pet imaging

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has published appropriate use criteria (AUC) for prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET imaging. The guidelines provide a framework for healthcare providers to determine the most effective use of PSMA PET scans in patients with suspected or known prostate cancer.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 7, 2022

Tipping point in Humboldt Current off Peru leads to species shift

Researchers reconstruct link between ocean warming and shift to smaller fish species using sediment samples from the Humboldt Current System. The study finds that warmer temperatures lead to a dominance of smaller, goby-like fish, pushing back important food fish like anchovies.

SourceKiel University·JournalScience·DateJan 7, 2022

Bioenergy sorghum’s roots can replenish carbon in soil

A new study by Texas A&M AgriLife researchers shows bioenergy sorghum can sequester significant amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide in soil, improving fertility. The crop's deep root system can reach untapped sources of water and nutrients, making it a sustainable option for biomass production.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalGCB Bioenergy·DateJan 7, 2022

Blood test helps predict who may benefit from lung cancer screening

A blood test combining a four-marker protein panel with an independent model improves lung cancer risk assessment, identifying 9.2% more cases for screening and reducing referrals by 13.7%. The study shows the potential to determine who may benefit from lung cancer screening with improved accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 7, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Chang’E-5 lander makes first onsite detection of water on moon

The Chang'E-5 lander has made the first onsite detection of water on the Moon, providing evidence of hydroxyl and/or H2O presence. The discovery was made using reflectance spectral data from the lunar surface acquired by the lander.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 7, 2022

Simple pH adjustment may enable a preventative Covid-19 nasal and throat spray

Researchers found that increasing the solution pH makes niclosamide effective against SARS-COV-2 virus replication. A lower dose of niclosamide can also positively affect airway cells without harming them. This could enable safe and effective nose and throat sprays with added protection.

SourceDuke University·JournalPharmaceutical Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2022

Eccentric exoplanet discovered

A sub-Neptune exoplanet named TOI-2257 b has been found to have an eccentric orbit around its host star, making it a candidate for further study. The planet's distance from the star allows for liquid water and potentially life-supporting conditions.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateJan 7, 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.

N95 respirators can be safely decontaminated up to 25 times, research shows

A new study from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that N95 respirators can maintain their function and effectiveness through 25 cycles of re-use using vaporized hydrogen peroxide. The study expands on previous findings, showing a relatively safe method for reprocessing personal protective equipment in future epidemics.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJan 7, 2022

Success in efficient fabrication of high-performance neodymium magnets using machine learning

Researchers at NIMS successfully fabricated high-performance neodymium magnets using machine learning, optimizing processing conditions with limited experimental data. By leveraging active learning and Bayesian optimization, they were able to achieve better magnetic properties than conventional sintered magnets.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 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.

Biotechnology could provide an environmentally more sustainable alternative to egg white protein production

Researchers at the University of Helsinki and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have developed a biotechnology-based solution to produce ovalbumin, a key protein in egg white powder. The fungus-produced ovalbumin reduces greenhouse gas emissions and land use by up to 72% compared to traditional chicken-based production.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Food·DateJan 7, 2022

Study: Re-enrolling and completing a bachelor's degree has positive effect on annual income

A Kansas State University study found that re-enrolling and completing a bachelor's degree results in an immediate increase in annual income of $4,294, with an additional income growth of $1,121 per year. This suggests that colleges and universities can improve economic outcomes for students by providing support to help them re-enroll ...

SourceKansas State University·JournalEconomics of Education Review·DateJan 7, 2022

Integrated photonics for quantum technologies

Researchers outline potential and challenges of integrated photonic circuits for quantum technologies, highlighting need for investment in education and infrastructure. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of current state and future applications of integrated photonics for quantum technologies.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalNature Reviews Physics·DateJan 7, 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.

Exercise alters brain chemistry to protect aging synapses

A recent study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that regular exercise enhances the connections between neurons in older adults, maintaining healthy cognition. The research, led by Kaitlin Casaletto and William Honer, suggests that physical activity may help boost synaptic functioning and safeguard against dementia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJan 7, 2022

Researchers develop first fully 3D-printed, flexible OLED display

A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota created a fully 3D-printed, flexible OLED display by combining two printing modes. The device exhibited stable emission and was found to be flexible and suitable for various applications. Further research aims to improve brightness and resolution.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 7, 2022

Current marsh pollution has dramatic, negative effects on sea anemone’s survival

Research from the Marine Biological Laboratory reveals that sea anemones are severely impacted by pollutants in their native habitats. The study found that exposure to common pollutants like phthalates and potassium nitrate led to decreased body size, fewer tentacles, and reduced stinging cells.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2022

Vaccinated women pass COVID-19 antibodies to breastfeeding babies

A University of Massachusetts Amherst study found that vaccinated women transfer SARS-CoV-2 antibodies to their breastfed infants, potentially giving them passive immunity against the coronavirus. The research also showed a correlation between vaccine side effects and antibody levels in infant stool.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 7, 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.

Differing cybersickness when playing or watching a virtual reality game

A study found that cybersickness decreases when playing a virtual reality game compared to passive watching, suggesting eye movement patterns play a key role in its occurrence. The researchers suggest developing methods to detect and mitigate cybersickness to enhance the sense of presence in VR experiences.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeCase study·DateJan 7, 2022

Making object invisible under fluid flow

Researchers develop simplified version of large-scale invisibility cloak using fluid dynamics, controlling fluid flow speed and direction. The technique uses varying fluid channel thickness to conceal obstacles, restoring original streamline paths.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 7, 2022

Tangled messages: Tracing neural circuits to chemotherapy's 'constellation of side effects'

A new study by Georgia Tech researchers has found a novel pathway for understanding why debilitating side effects occur with cancer treatment. The findings suggest that the central nervous system is vulnerable to cancer treatment's adverse effects, and correcting any one may not be enough to improve human function and quality of life.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 7, 2022

Life in the "dead" heart of Australia

A team of Australian and international scientists has discovered a valuable new fossil site in New South Wales, containing exceptional examples of fossils from the Miocene epoch. The site, named McGraths Flat, provides insights into the history of the Australian continent and its ecosystems.

SourceAustralian Museum·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJan 7, 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.

COVID-19 patients in ICUs: study reveals an increased risk of invasive fungal secondary infections

A recent study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that COVID-19 patients in ICUs have a high risk of developing invasive fungal secondary infections. In fact, the MYCOVID study revealed that 22% of intubated and mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients in ICUs had proven or probable invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and...

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 7, 2022

Scientists uncover the distribution and physiological role of planteose

Researchers at Osaka Prefecture University discovered that planteose is a storage carbohydrate distributed in the seeds of root parasitic weeds. Its physiological role involves rapid hydrolysis after strigolactone perception, providing essential nutrients for germination.

SourceOsaka Prefecture University·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2022
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.

Cosmic alignment through acoustics

Ancient Chinese scholars viewed sound as a means to assess cosmic qi and predict weather events. Jing Fang's tuning system, developed in the 1st century BCE, used acoustics to construct a closed cycle with reduced gaps, allowing for accurate seasonal predictions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalIsis·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 7, 2022

Scientists reduce all-solid-state battery resistance by heating it

Researchers from Tokyo Tech and AIST develop a strategy to restore the low electrical resistance in all-solid-state lithium batteries. By heating the interface between the positive electrode and solid electrolyte, they reduce the resistance to comparable levels of unexposed batteries.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 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.

Cannabis poisoning in young children increased nine times after legalization

Emergency department visits for cannabis poisonings in children under 10 increased ninefold after commercial cannabis edibles were legalized, with 39% requiring hospitalization. Researchers found that cannabis legalization overlapped with the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a surge in cannabis poisoning cases.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 7, 2022