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Science News Archive January 2022 - Page 27


Page 27 of 34

Researchers develop simple and scalable method of generating formate

A new method for generating formate has been developed, utilizing electrochemical anodic oxidation. The process produces high-quality formate with a selectivity of 96.4% and a partial current density of 285 mA·cm−2. This method is scalable, simple, and efficient, making it a promising candidate for large-scale industrial production.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022

Researchers use artificial intelligence to guide the search for the next SARS-like virus

A study led by Georgetown University scientists demonstrates the power of artificial intelligence in predicting viruses that could infect humans, such as SARS-CoV-2. The research team identified 40 new bat hosts of betacoronaviruses and found that models harnessing data on bat ecology performed well at predicting new hosts.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 10, 2022

School learning format, children’s behaviors during pandemic

This survey study investigated the relationship between parents' observations of their children's behavior at home and the school learning format used during the pandemic. The findings suggest that schools adapting to the pandemic led to changes in children's behavior at home.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 10, 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.

The ‘surprisingly simple’ arithmetic of smell

A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis used machine learning to understand how locusts can consistently recognize smells despite environmental factors, finding that combining the activity of ON and OFF neurons provides a simple yet effective solution.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022

Health centers are improving COVID-19 vaccine equity among people of color

A new study found that federally qualified health centers administered 61.4% of vaccines to people of color, compared to 40% in the general US population. FQHCs played a critical role in increasing COVID-19 vaccination rates among marginalized communities.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

ERC Starting Grant for Kai Kretzschmar

The European Research Council has awarded Kai Kretzschmar a Starting Grant to systematically characterise oral epithelial stem cells. This will help decipher the mechanisms underlying the diversity of the oral epithelium and its contribution to oral squamous cell carcinomas.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateJan 10, 2022

Measuring trust in AI

A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo found that public trust in AI varies greatly depending on the application and demographic factors. They developed an octagonal visual metric to quantify these attitudes and hope it can lead to a universal scale for measuring ethical issues around AI.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Interaction·TypeSurvey·DateJan 10, 2022

Will this new superpower molecule revolutionize science?

Researchers have created a powerful DNA-peptide hybrid that could lead to advancements in nanotechnology and the study of Alzheimer's disease. The new structure combines three-stranded DNA and peptide structures, overcoming the challenge of chirality between these biomolecules.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2022

Scientists discover how key protein drives our immune response against viruses

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have identified a crucial protein, myeloid cell nuclear differentiation antigen (MNDA), that regulates type I interferon production in response to viral infections. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for the development of new therapies to boost or suppress immune responses, p...

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2022

First day of attempt to quit smoking is especially tough for women

A study found that the first day of quitting smoking is harder for women than men, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Women also have more difficulty maintaining long-term abstinence, with larger health warning labels on cigarette packs associated with reduced odds of one-day relapse among them.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateJan 10, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Dolphin females have working clitoris, anatomical evidence suggests

Researchers found that dolphin females have a functional clitoris, with large areas of erectile tissue, nerves, and free nerve endings similar to those in human clitoris. The study suggests that the dolphin clitoris plays a role in female sexual pleasure, providing insights into animal sexuality.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 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.

Water scarcity may spur improvements at manufacturing facilities

A new study found that manufacturing facilities that use large amounts of water during periods of drought often streamline their processes to lower toxic emissions into water, lakes, and rivers. On average, these changes resulted in reduced toxic emissions by over 2.5%.

SourcePenn State·JournalManagement Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2022

Rare African script offers clues to the evolution of writing

A study of the Vai script found that it became visually simpler with each passing year, as letters were designed for efficient reading and writing. This pattern of simplification can be observed in other ancient writing systems, suggesting a predictable evolutionary process.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateJan 10, 2022

Higher olive oil intake associated with lower risk of CVD mortality

A study found that consuming more than 7 grams of olive oil per day is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative, and respiratory disease mortality. Replacing margarine, butter, mayonnaise, and dairy fat with olive oil was also linked to improved health outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 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.

Hyperbolic metamaterials: Fusing artificial structures to natural 2D materials

Hyperbolic metamaterials exhibit extremely high anisotropy, enabling unique light manipulation capabilities. Researchers have harmonized HMMs with natural materials and artificial structures, expanding their applicability to fields like super-resolution imaging and emission engineering.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournaleLight·DateJan 10, 2022

Ocean Physics Explain Cyclones on Jupiter

Researchers analyzed images from NASA's Juno spacecraft to study the forces driving cyclones on Jupiter. Moist convection drives an upscale energy transfer at Jovian high latitudes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Physics·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 10, 2022

Behavioral indicator for preterm infants

A new study suggests that a behavioral marker in preterm infants can indicate potential development problems. Researchers used digital eye tracking to test the infants' visual motor coordination and found that those who struggled with this task were more likely to face cognitive and social difficulties later on.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 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.

Cancer therapy using on-site synthesis of anticancer drugs

Researchers at RIKEN successfully treated cancer in mice using metal catalysts that assemble anticancer drugs inside the body. The technique avoids indiscriminate tissue damage and increases cancer-inhibiting activity by 1000 times.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022

Migrating holes help catalysts be productive

Researchers at Rice University have developed a theory showing how manipulating quasiparticles could help improve chemical reactions. By applying electric fields, holes can be made to migrate across the surface of catalyst particles, activating neighboring sites and increasing the efficiency of the reaction.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 10, 2022

Years lived alone and/or serial break-ups strongly linked to inflammation in men

A large population study found that living alone for several years and/or experiencing serial relationship break-ups are strongly linked to raised levels of inflammatory markers in the blood of middle-aged men. The researchers suggest that this combination may indicate a heightened risk of age-related ill health and death.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 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.

Scientists map skin cells that contribute to diabetic foot ulcers

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center used single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis to study skin cells in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. The study revealed specific fibroblast subtypes play a crucial role in healing these ulcers, suggesting targeting these cells as a potential therapeutic option.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2022

The path to clean catalysis

The University of Jena chemist, Martin Oschatz, aims to develop new physicochemical approaches for catalysis using sustainable materials. He seeks to create quasi 'artificial bonding states' between surfaces and liquids to achieve ammonia synthesis at room temperature.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·DateJan 10, 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.

No pay gap for female zoo vets, but children perceived as career hindrance

A new study on ACZM diplomates found that female veterinarians in zoological work don't suffer from a gender pay gap, but many feel they must give up having children to succeed. The study also revealed significant differences in perceptions of childbearing's impact on careers between males and females.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·TypeSurvey·DateJan 10, 2022

Ultra Safe Nuclear licenses ORNL method to 3D print advanced reactor components

The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a novel method for 3D printing refractory materials into complex shapes needed for advanced nuclear reactor designs. USNC plans to incorporate this technology to boost their mission to develop safe, commercially competitive, and simple nuclear energy equipment.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022

Fishers facing pressure from wildfires, salvage logging, OSU research shows

A long-term monitoring program found that wildfires and salvage logging negatively affected fisher abundance by 27% and population density. The study suggests that increased severity and frequency of wildfires will have negative impacts on fishers and change community composition for medium-size predators.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEcosphere·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2022

Who gives consent for treatment when a person with stroke cannot?

The American Academy of Neurology issues a position statement on how to navigate consent issues for people with stroke, emphasizing the importance of advance health care directives and surrogate decision makers. Neurologists may need to guide patients' wishes and make decisions based on their best interests when time is of the essence.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 10, 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.

Equivariant representations for molecular Hamiltonians and N-center atomic-scale properties

Researchers develop a symmetrized N-center representation that provides a natural, fully equivariant framework for learning properties associated with multiple atoms. The approach gives excellent accuracy for predicting atomic properties despite using only linear or kernel regression.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·JournalChemical Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 10, 2022

New method aids water prospecting and dam security

Scientists have developed a mathematical method to interpret data on underground water flows, providing more efficient and accurate imaging for planning construction works and inspecting dams. The technique has great potential for locating water reservoirs in dry areas and tapping into this resource for agricultural and industrial needs.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateJan 10, 2022

T cells from common colds cross-protect against infection with SARS-CoV-2

Researchers found that T cells induced by previous common cold coronavirus infections can recognize and target internal proteins of SARS-CoV-2, providing a potential new vaccine target. This immunity offers long-lasting protection as T cell responses persist longer than antibody responses.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2022

Advertising plays key role in satellite TV success, study shows

A new study from the University of Notre Dame documents the crucial role of advertising in satellite TV operators' continued success. The study highlights how consumers were sensitive to advertising, particularly that of satellite operators, and how national advertising costs offered an entry advantage for these firms.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateJan 10, 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.

As China converts to clean energy, households should consider using heat pumps

A study by Princeton University researchers recommends increasing heat pump use in rural households to improve air quality and health in northern China. Heat pumps provide the largest reductions in both air pollutant and carbon emissions, especially when used with a decarbonized power grid.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2022

Study reveals how triclosan, likely found in toothpaste, is triggered to harm the gut

A new study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an international team finds that triclosan triggers gut inflammation in mice. The researchers identified specific bacteria and enzymes that drive this damage, but also developed a microbiome-targeted inhibitor to block triclosan processing, preventing colitis.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022

New study links gut fungi to intestinal inflammation in Crohn’s disease patients

A recent study by researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that Candida tropicalis fungus can trigger chronic inflammation in the gut microbiome of Crohn's disease patients. This imbalance of fungi and bacteria can create a predisposition to inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 10, 2022

From dust to planet: how gas giants form

Researchers used computer simulations to model how dust collides and grows into solid cores for gas giants. This process enables the formation of massive cores necessary for gas accumulation within a few hundred thousand years.

SourceNagoya University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 10, 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.

New research on magnetite in salmon noses illuminates understanding of sensory mechanisms enabling magnetic perception across life

A new theory outlines how magnetite crystals in specialized receptor cells of salmon and other animals may have roots in ancient genetic systems developed by bacteria, suggesting a common evolutionary history between magnetite-producing bacteria and fish. The findings have the potential for widespread application, from improving salmon...

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 10, 2022

New bacteria in UK waters as temperatures rise

A new study by the University of Exeter reveals two previously unknown Vibrio species in UK waters, which can cause gastroenteritis and skin infections in humans. The increasing range of these bacteria also threatens marine biodiversity and the seafood industry, with potential economic costs estimated at £6 billion annually.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalWater Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2022

Koblentz receives funding for global biolabs project

Koblentz will create a detailed resource with data on high-containment labs, research types, and oversight mechanisms. Funding will focus on strengthening national and international policies for safe and responsible conduct of biomedical research

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJan 10, 2022

Medieval warhorses were surprisingly small in stature, study shows

A new study reveals that medieval warhorses were bred for success in various functions, including tournaments and long-distance raiding campaigns. The research, published in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, found that breeding and training were influenced by biological and cultural factors.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Osteoarchaeology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2022

Invasive species ‘hitchhiking’ on tourist and research ships threaten Antarctica’s unique ecosystems

New research reveals that invasive species can arrive in Antarctic waters from almost anywhere across the globe via biofouling on ships' hulls. Fishing, tourism, research, and supply ships expose Antarctica to non-native species threatening its pristine environment.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 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.

Long term exposure to air pollution may heighten COVID-19 risk

Research suggests long term exposure to particulate matter in the air may increase the risk of COVID-19 infection by 5%, with effects most pronounced on respiratory health. The study found associations between air pollution and increased infection rates, particularly among older age groups.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2022

Biosimilar drugs could generate $38.4 billion in savings over five years

A new RAND Corporation study estimates that biosimilar drugs could save the US healthcare system up to $124.5 billion from 2021 to 2025, mainly due to downward pressure on brand-name biologics. The estimated savings are driven by increased competition and more aggressive adoption of biosimilars.

SourceRAND Corporation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2022

Astronomers identify potential clue to reinonization of universe

Researchers found a powerful black hole in a nearby galaxy that may have played a key role in the universe's reionization process. The discovery sheds light on how the first stars and galaxies formed, with implications for our understanding of the universe's evolution.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 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.

Chemists use DNA to build the world’s tiniest antenna

Researchers at Université de Montréal have created a nanoantenna to monitor the motions of proteins, offering a new method to study natural and human-designed nanotechnologies. The DNA-based fluorescent nanoantenna can detect protein conformational changes in real-time.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022

Coastal ecosystem being destabilized by climate change, Oregon State research shows

A new study by Oregon State University reveals that ecological communities on the Oregon coast are being subtly destabilized by climate change, despite appearing to be stress-resistant. The communities have grown less stable for at least a decade, with increasing variability in their structure and recovery patterns.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022