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Science News Archive January 2022 - Page 7


Page 7 of 34

Compound from violets may help fight glioblastoma

Researchers discovered that cyclotides from violets increase the power of TMZ in killing glioblastoma cancer cells by up to eight-fold. This breakthrough could lead to better treatment options for patients with this fatal form of brain cancer.

SourceBrain Chemistry Labs·JournalJournal of Natural Products·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2022

Bristol team chase down advantage in quantum race

Researchers at the University of Bristol have reduced simulation time for an optical quantum computer from 600 million years to just a few months, achieving a one-billion-fold speedup. This breakthrough paves the way for future studies on quantum advantage and computational power.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 26, 2022

Using nanodiamonds as sensors just got easier

University of Rochester researchers adapt excited state lifetime thermometry to extract temperatures of nanoscale materials from light emitted by nitrogen vacancy centers in single nanodiamonds. The technique allows for precise measurement of temperature changes on fast time scales and is safe for imaging sensitive nanoscale materials ...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.

Stopping heavy bleeding

Case Western Reserve University researchers create nanoparticles that generate a protein mesh to stabilize blood clots and reduce blood loss. The technology could help save lives by rapidly stabilizing clots to reduce blood loss from traumatic injuries.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 26, 2022

Zoo enrichment could go further

New research reveals that zoos and aquariums can prioritize evidence-based environmental enrichment to benefit a wider range of species. The study highlights the need for greater diversity in enrichment types and species researched, as well as more attention to social enrichment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Welfare·DateJan 26, 2022

Starting physical activity three days post-concussion is safe, has better outcomes

A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that resuming non-contact physical activity 72 hours after a concussion is safe for children and youth. The study, which involved 456 participants, showed that early return to physical activity can reduce symptoms and delayed recovery.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 26, 2022

New experiment results bolster potential for self-sustaining fusion

Recent experiments achieved a burning plasma state in fusion, helping steer fusion research closer to its ultimate goal of a self-sustaining reaction. The results showed gradual improvements that could keep more energy inside the reaction, representing a significant step toward self-sustaining fusion.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Flavonoids may reduce mortality risk for people with Parkinson’s Disease

A recent study found that people with Parkinson's Disease who consume more flavonoids have a lower mortality risk than those who don't. The researchers discovered that higher flavonoid intake is associated with improved survival rates in both men and women, particularly when it comes to anthocyanin-rich foods like berries and red wine.

SourcePenn State·JournalNeurology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2022

Blood markers can predict depression in pregnancy

Researchers have identified 15 biological markers that can predict severe depression in pregnant women with 83% accuracy. This finding has the potential to improve prenatal care and reduce depressive symptoms in mothers.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJan 26, 2022

Kirigami robotic grippers are delicate enough to lift egg yolks

Researchers from NC State University have demonstrated a new type of flexible robotic gripper that can lift delicate egg yolks without breaking them. The grippers use a kirigami technique to convert 2D sheets into curved 3D structures, allowing for precise control over the final shape and structure.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Female family medicine researchers submitted fewer manuscripts compared to their male counterparts in 2020, which may reflect larger disparity

A bibliometric analysis of Annals of Family Medicine submissions from 2015 to 2020 found that women represented 46.33% of all manuscript submissions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Women submitted fewer original research articles and briefs than men, potentially impacting future promotions.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 26, 2022

Scientists decode 450 years of boom and crisis in Europe from ages of building timber

Researchers analyzed 54,045 georeferenced pieces of building timber to track changes in building activity across Europe from 1250 to 1699. They found clear evidence for the Late Medieval Crisis, the Thirty Years' War, and economic boom periods, with building activity tracking historical price of grain and lead pollution.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2022

Discovery unravels emergent atomic vibrations in superlattices

Researchers employed microscopy techniques to study the atomic structure and vibrations of perovskite oxides in superlattices. The discovery enables the rational design of materials with unique photonic and phononic properties.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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 use GPS to track baboon troop's movement in urban spaces for the first time

Researchers from Swansea University and University of Cape Town used GPS collars to study baboons' collective behavior in urban and natural spaces. The study found that despite changes in movement patterns, leader-follower roles remained consistent, suggesting flexibility and robustness in group cohesion.

SourceSwansea University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2022

After a wildfire, how does a town rebuild?

Researchers studied Paradise, California's response to the 2018 Camp Fire. They found that community responses vary greatly due to distinct fire and demographic characteristics.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeSurvey·DateJan 26, 2022

Technique improves AI ability to understand 3D space using 2D images

Researchers developed MonoCon, a new AI technique that enables accurate identification of 3D objects in 2D images. By incorporating auxiliary context, the method improves object detection and estimation accuracy, paving the way for safer and more robust autonomous vehicles.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 26, 2022

Cleaning your car may not protect you from this carcinogen

A new study published in Environmental Research found that dust removal does not mitigate exposure to TDCIPP, a carcinogenic chemical commonly used in automobile seat foam. The researchers suggest that wearing a mask in the car may be an effective way to reduce exposure.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.

Song sparrows shuffle and repeat to keep their audience listening

Researchers found that males keep track of the order of their songs and how often each one is sung for up to 30 minutes. This complex behavior allows them to curate both their current playlist and the next one, with variations in song order and repeats.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2022

The secrets of fish survival in the desert

Researchers discovered adaptations allowing desert fish to thrive in harsh conditions by maintaining genetic diversity and adapting genes for aridity. This finding challenges the idea that small populations are evolutionary dead ends.

SourceFlinders University·JournalEvolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2022

Urban greening ‘not a panacea’ for dealing with extreme weather, study finds

A recent study by Cardiff University found that urban greening strategies like green roofs and parks are unlikely to reduce both heatwaves and flooding simultaneously. The team's research suggests that local climate conditions significantly impact the effectiveness of these measures.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 26, 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.

Integrated palliative care in ambulatory settings falls short of relieving symptom burden but improves health care utilization

A mixed-method review and meta-analysis found that integrated palliative care in ambulatory settings has limited effect on reducing symptom burden, but improves health care utilization for U.S. adults with non-cancer related chronic illnesses. The models were also effective in increasing advanced directive documentation.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 26, 2022

Study shows surprising breadth of plant viruses that hitchhike on pollen

A recent study by University of Pittsburgh biologists found a wide range of plant viruses associated with pollen grains from 24 plant species across the US. The research, published in Nature Communications, identifies six new species and three variants of known viruses, highlighting the potential for honeybees to spread these diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.

New diagnoses of common chronic diseases and cancers plummeted during COVID-19 pandemic

Common chronic conditions like high cholesterol, pulmonary diseases, and anxiety disorders saw significant declines in new diagnoses during the COVID-19 pandemic. A substantial increase in primary care physicians, face-to-face visits, and proactive care is needed to address this decline and prevent poor health outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 26, 2022
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.

Illuminating a biological light switch

Scientists at Weill Cornell Medicine developed a new imaging technique to capture bacteriorhodopsin's motions in response to light on a millisecond time scale. This study reveals the protein's kinetics, including the speed of transitions between open and closed states, which informs optogenetics research.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 2022

Black carbon and aerosol optical properties in Beijing changed due to Clean Air Action

The study found that black carbon decreased significantly in Beijing since the implementation of the Clean Air Action Plan, with a 71% reduction over nine years. However, this decrease was not accompanied by an equivalent decrease in aerosol extinction coefficient, leading to mixed effects on optical properties.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateJan 26, 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.

How to ruin the taste of a cookie with just 2 words

A recent study from Ohio State University found that labeling identical products as 'new and improved' resulted in higher overall liking ratings compared to those labeled as 'consumer complaint.' The researchers suggest that this negative bias has a bigger impact on consumer perception than positive labels.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateJan 26, 2022

Diamond quantum sensor detects “magnetic flow” excited by heat

A team of researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology successfully detects thermally excited magnons in a yttrium iron garnet sample using a diamond-based quantum sensor. This breakthrough enables the detection of thermal magnon currents, opening doors to heat-controlled quantum devices.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateJan 26, 2022

When relationships break down, men are at risk of mental illness

A new UBC study confirms that men are at increased risk of mental illness, including anxiety and depression, when they transition out of relationships. The study found that men often downplay issues in their relationships, leading to further conflict, and may turn to substances to cope with feelings such as anger and regret.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 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.

University of Delaware professors elected AAAS Fellows

University of Delaware professors Wei-Jun Cai and David Kirchman have been named AAAS Fellows for their important contributions to STEM fields. Cai was recognized for his work on the global carbon cycle and ocean acidification, while Kirchman was honored for his research on marine biosciences and microbial ecology.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJan 26, 2022

Study finds cancer immunotherapy treatment can reverse HIV latency

Researchers found that cancer immunotherapy pembrolizumab can reverse HIV latency, allowing killer T cells to regain function and kill infected cells. The treatment, which blocks exhaustion markers, also perturbs the HIV reservoir, showing promise for a cure.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 26, 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.

The genomic structure of microbial communities can predict metabolic activity

A new study reveals that the genes present in a microbial community can predict its dynamic metabolic activity, with implications for the nitrogen cycle and other biogeochemical processes. The research provides insights into how scientists can infer metabolite dynamics from aggregate gene content, design microbial communities for speci...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2022

Could a ‘virtual slime mould’ design a better subway system?

Researchers created a computer model that simulates the way slime moulds construct their network, finding networks with improved travel time or resilience to disruption. The models were validated using three key metrics and showed good correlation with actual slime mould results.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 26, 2022

A leap forward for terahertz lasers

Researchers have developed a compact terahertz laser that operates at room temperature and produces 120 individual frequencies spanning the 0.25 - 1.3 THz range. This breakthrough technology has the potential to bridge the gap for applications in imaging, security, and communications.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAPL Photonics·DateJan 26, 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.

Missing ‘key’ could overcome drug discovery barrier

Researchers identified the 'key' controlling potassium ion flow across cell membranes, resolving a decades-old problem and providing a new understanding of how channels are gated. The discovery has potential implications for treating diseases such as cancers, epilepsy, and diabetes by targeting ion channel deregulation.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2022

SLAC and Stanford researchers reveal the fourth signature of the superconducting transition in cuprates

Scientists confirmed the fourth signature of superconducting transition in cuprates, revealing how electrons pair up and condense into a quantum condensate. The discovery provides a holistic picture of unconventional superconductivity and gives researchers two knobs to tune for higher temperatures.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2022

UB research uncovers previously unknown aspects of running shoe design

Researchers found that runners can maintain their natural stride with heavily cushioned shoes, contrary to previous assumptions. The study used custom sandals to measure leg stiffness and running style, revealing no significant impact from shoe cushioning.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.

Eco-friendly micro-supercapacitors using fallen leaves​

A KAIST research team has developed graphene-inorganic-hybrid micro-supercapacitors made of leaves using femtosecond direct laser writing lithography. The innovation enables mass production of flexible and green graphene-based electronic devices, reducing waste and environmental issues associated with traditional batteries.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 26, 2022

Scientists develop Covid-19 testing lab in a backpack

A new study from Queen Mary University of London demonstrates the effectiveness of a compact Covid-19 testing kit, which uses low-cost hardware and is relatively inexpensive to make. The kit offers a promising solution for remote areas with limited access to well-equipped testing labs or trained personnel.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2022

AI models can predict individual risk of hospitalization for COVID using HIE data

Researchers developed AI models trained on clinical data from a statewide health information exchange to predict healthcare resource utilization for individuals with COVID-19. The models demonstrated accurate public health predictions and provided valuable insights into patient-level need for healthcare resources.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJan 26, 2022

Mysterious object unlike anything astronomers have seen before

A team of astronomers has discovered a mysterious object releasing giant bursts of energy three times an hour, which could be a neutron star or white dwarf with an ultra-powerful magnetic field. The object is incredibly bright and smaller than the Sun, emitting highly-polarised radio waves.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 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.

Eating disorders potentially hiding autism diagnosis

Researchers at Flinders University found that autistic individuals with eating disorders also report higher weight and shape concerns, suggesting a unique combination of symptoms. The study highlights the need for best-practice guidelines to address co-occurring autism and eating disorders in treatment.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAdvances in Neurodevelopmental Disorders·TypeSurvey·DateJan 26, 2022