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Science News Archive January 2022 - Page 16


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.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry·DateJan 19, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

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.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 19, 2022

THE LANCET: An estimated 1.2 million people died in 2019 from antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, more deaths than HIV/AIDS or malaria

A new report estimates that antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections caused over 1.27 million deaths worldwide in 2019, with the greatest impact on lower respiratory and bloodstream infections. The study highlights the urgent need to combat antimicrobial resistance and provides immediate actions for policymakers to save lives.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Remdesivir for COVID-19 found to reduce need for mechanical ventilation: RCT

A randomized controlled trial found that remdesivir reduced the need for mechanical ventilation in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. The study involved 1282 patients and showed that those treated with remdesivir were able to come off oxygen and ventilators sooner than those receiving standard care.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalLife Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 19, 2022

Artificial pancreas proves ‘life-changing’ for very young children with type 1 diabetes and their families

A new artificial pancreas system has been shown to be safe and effective in managing blood sugar levels in very young children with type 1 diabetes. The hybrid closed-loop system, CamAPS FX, reduced average blood sugar levels and improved glucose control without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 19, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateJan 19, 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.

For glioma patients, a mutated gene may open the door to new treatment options

Researchers found that glioma cells with mutated ATRX have reduced Chk1 activity, leading to dysregulated cell cycle and heightened sensitivity to ATM inhibitors. The study suggests that combining radiation therapy with these inhibitors may improve treatment outcomes for patients with this gene mutation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalThe Journal of Urology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalCold Regions Science and Technology·DateJan 19, 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.

Politicians polarize, but experts are trusted, new study on securing support for COVID-19 policies reveals

A recent study by Swansea University found that experts and bipartisan coalitions are more effective in securing public support for COVID-19 policies compared to politicians from one party. The research showed that policies backed by experts gained more support and avoided polarizing effects.

SourceSwansea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2022

Unveiled the epigenetic mechanism by which vitamin D modulates the tolerance of the immune system

Researchers at the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute and the Germans Trias i Pujol Hospital discovered that vitamin D activates the tolerance program of dendritic cells through epigenetic modification. This finding offers new hope for treating autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis by optimizing tolerogenic dendritic cells.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 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.

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 19, 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.

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.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 19, 2022

Scientists demonstrate utility of Bilateral Tumor Model for evaluating anti-cancer T-cell responses

A new bilateral tumor model was demonstrated to be useful for investigating the relationship between T-cell repertoire and cancer immunotherapy's therapeutic effects. The study found that T-cell profiles of both tumors were almost identical, indicating a similar anti-tumor response in a single mouse.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Parasitology·DateJan 19, 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.

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.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAgricultural Finance Review·DateJan 19, 2022

Study IDs visual characteristics that make people ‘Like’ images on Instagram

A study by North Carolina State University found that image complexity drives consumer engagement on Instagram. The researchers identified six measures of image complexity and developed a model to determine which combination generates the most positive feedback.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Research in Marketing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 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.

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.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJACC Basic to Translational Science·DateJan 19, 2022

Climate crisis drives Mediterranean coral populations to collapse

Mass mortality events caused by marine heatwaves are collapsing Mediterranean coral populations, with biomass losses of up to 90%. The study found that these species' slow population dynamics and long-term recovery capacity make them vulnerable to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 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.

Lockdown drove pollution changes between – even within – cities

Researchers found a 30% larger decrease in surface-level NO2 levels in countries with strict lockdowns compared to those without. Within cities, variations were stark, with areas near coal-powered plants or airports seeing greater reductions.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceUniversity of the West of Scotland·JournalSensors·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJan 19, 2022

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...

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 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.

How Sandia Labs is revealing the inner workings of quantum computers

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories developed a precision diagnostic to detect and describe problems in quantum computing hardware. Using gate set tomography, they discovered new innovations that improve the reliability and accuracy of quantum processors.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

Satellites reveal world’s most famous ‘mega iceberg’ released 152 billion tonnes of fresh water into ocean as it scraped past South Georgia

Scientists tracked A68A iceberg from its creation to its melting, revealing it released 152 billion tonnes of fresh water near South Georgia. The iceberg's melting influenced local ocean circulation and fostered biological production around the island.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalDevelopment·DateJan 19, 2022
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.

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.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalEcological Solutions and Evidence·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2022

Hollow melanosomes from a 130 million-year-old fossil suggest earliest appearance of brilliant iridescent color in bird feathers

Researchers found hollow melanosomes in a 130-million-year-old fossil, suggesting the earliest appearance of brilliant iridescent color in bird feathers. The discovery was made on an Early Cretaceous basal bird from northern China and provides evidence for the evolution of complex feather colors.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 19, 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.

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.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 19, 2022

Seasonal predictions of air pollution in China face challenges

Air pollution prediction models in China require consideration of rapid human activity changes and decadal climatic factors. Developing accurate seasonal to interannual predictions is crucial for government planning and air quality control.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJan 19, 2022

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS ES&T Water·DateJan 19, 2022