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Science News Archive March 2022


Page 1 of 44

Genetic analysis traces 5000 years of Xinjiang population history

Ancient genomes from 39 archaeological sites indicate that Xinjiang was settled by people with central and eastern Eurasian Steppe ancestry during the Bronze Age. The region received an influx of East and Central Asian ancestry later, resulting in genetically mixed populations throughout the Iron Age.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2022

New Johns Hopkins study explores relationship between psychedelics and consciousness

A new Johns Hopkins study examines the link between psychedelics and consciousness, revealing a significant increase in attributing consciousness to various entities following a psychedelic experience. The study found that participants who reported belief-changing experiences showed substantial increases in attributing consciousness to...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMar 31, 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.

Researchers find patterns of handgun carrying among youth in rural areas, building foundation for injury prevention

A recent study found that young people in rural areas carry handguns nearly twice as often as urban youths, with one in three reporting carrying by age 26. The study identified six longitudinal trajectories of handgun carrying, suggesting different cultural contexts and motivations for the behavior.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateMar 31, 2022

Quantum ‘shock absorbers’ allow perovskite to exhibit superfluorescence at room temperature

Researchers at NC State University discovered that built-in thermal shock absorbers in perovskites protect dipoles from thermal interference, enabling room-temperature superfluorescence. The 'Quantum Analog of Vibration Isolation' mechanism creates a filter that allows synchronized emission of photons.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

Mammals put brawn before brains to survive post-dinosaur world

For the first 10 million years after dinosaurs died out, mammals bulked up to boost their survival chances. Their brain sizes decreased as a result, with relative brain sizes of early mammals decreasing due to increased body size.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 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.

Under (blood) pressure

A study by Alisa Auer and Petra Wirtz found that men with essential hypertension are more likely to recognize angry expressions when looking at others' faces. This 'anger recognition bias' contributes to increased blood pressure over time if someone experiences high levels of anger.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateMar 31, 2022

X-rays help scientists uncover new forms of material using designer DNA

Researchers use DNA to program metal nanoparticles to assemble into new configurations, resulting in the discovery of three new crystalline phases. The approach enables symmetry breaking and creation of complex colloidal crystal structures with unique optical and catalytic properties.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 31, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Complete human genome deciphered for the first time

Scientists have successfully sequenced an entire human genome, filling in gaps that were previously unknown or difficult to read. The achievement marks a major breakthrough in understanding the complexities of human genetics and has the potential to reveal new insights into evolution, disease, and adaptation.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2022

Technology has the potential to change the patient-provider relationship

A study analyzed perspectives on personal health records from cancer patients and providers, highlighting the need for discussions about record uses. Implementing PHRs more widely, tailoring them to specific conditions, and making them user-friendly are next steps to improve patient-centered care.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJMIR Human Factors·DateMar 31, 2022

T. rex's short arms may have lowered risk of bites during feeding frenzies

Paleontologist Kevin Padian suggests that T. rex's short arms evolved to prevent accidental or intentional amputation during pack feeding, a behavior thought to be common among the species. This hypothesis proposes that the reduced forelimbs provided an adaptive advantage by reducing the risk of injury during intense feeding interactions.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·TypeCase study·DateMar 31, 2022

Similitude laws of multi-storey masonry buildings tested

A study examines the applicability of Cauchy and Cauchy-Froude laws to multi-storey masonry structures with flexible diaphragms. The findings suggest that these laws may be inadequate for heavy structures unless gravity is scaled.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Earthquake Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

How e-scooters can safely operate in a city

Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology present a framework for comparing e-scooter safety, highlighting the importance of analyzing rider behavior and identifying strategies for improving traffic safety. The study found that braking performance is superior on bicycles, while e-scooters excel in steering maneuvers.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Safety Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Nomads and snow leopards coexist successfully on the Tibetan Plateau

Researchers found that livestock grazing had no negative impact on snow leopard distribution or density, and the species can coexist due to their separate ecological niches. The study suggests a more nuanced approach to conservation and land use, prioritizing the preservation of rocky mosaics.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalAnimal Conservation·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

Easy test can see if breeding bulls have the right stuff

A new test, RHEOLEX, can quickly detect breeding bull fertility levels using a simple, home pregnancy test-like device. The test mimics the biological process of rheotaxis, in which sperm swim upstream in the reproductive tract, to quantify the sperm's ability.

SourceCornell University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateMar 31, 2022

New study solves mystery of how soft liquid droplets erode hard surfaces

A new study reveals that soft liquid droplets erode hard surfaces due to a shock wave created by the impact, which spreads out with the dropping speed exceeding sound velocity. This discovery could lead to more erosion-resistant materials for outdoor applications.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Animal behavior: Zebra mbuna fish and stingrays can add and subtract

Fish species zebra mbuna and stingrays are found to possess numerical abilities on par with other vertebrate species. Through training, six of the eight zebra mbuna and three out of eight stingrays learned to associate blue with addition and yellow with subtraction, demonstrating consistent performance in recognizing numbers from 1 to 5.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 31, 2022

Simulation and retrieval for spaceborne aerosol and cloud high spectral resolution lidar of China

The study aims to investigate China's spaceborne Aerosol and Cloud High Spectral Resolution Lidar (ACHSRL) for its potential in retrieving aerosol and cloud data. The research reveals that the uncertainty of aerosol depolarization ratio and Poisson noise are significant error sources, but proposes correction schemes to improve accuracy.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateMar 31, 2022

Now fully complete, human genome reveals new secrets

A complete, gapless genome sequence has been completed for scientists and physicians, revealing new details about the region around the centromere. The newly sequenced genome provides insights into human genetic variation and may hold clues to the evolution of our ancestors in Africa.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Volcano monitoring at Mount Etna using fibre optic cables

A fibre optic cable was used to record volcanic events at Mount Etna, detecting seismo-acoustic activity and mapping hidden structural features. The Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) method proved suitable for volcano monitoring and hazard assessment.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Scientists develop environmentally safe, frost-resistant coatings

Scientists at the University of Illinois Chicago have created a new family of environmentally safe, frost-resistant coatings that can delay the formation of frost for extended hours. These coatings can be applied to various surfaces without preconditioning or expensive surface treatments, reducing pollution and ice-related problems.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

New human reference genome opens unexplored regions

The new reference genome provides a more complete sequence of the human genome, shedding light on long-running mysteries surrounding centromeres and heterochromatin. This breakthrough enables researchers to better understand gene expression, variation, and epigenetic mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Ozone may be heating the planet more than we realise

Research reveals that ozone levels in the upper and lower atmosphere are weakening one of Earth's main cooling mechanisms, making it a significant greenhouse gas. The study found that increased ozone in the lower atmosphere caused 60% of the overall ozone-induced warming seen in Southern Ocean waters.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2022

New gene targets for treating adult blood cancer

Hokkaido University scientists have identified CDK6 as a promising target for treating adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) with the drug palbociclib. The combination of palbociclib with everolimus also showed significant tumor growth reduction and minimal side effects in mice models.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

New virology data shows the investigational COVID antiviral drug molnupiravir eliminates actively infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus by day 3 of starting therapy

New data from the MOVe-OUT trial reveals that molnupiravir significantly reduces SARS-CoV-2 infection within three days of treatment. In contrast, those receiving a placebo took up to five days to clear the virus. The study confirms molnupiravir's effectiveness in accelerating viral RNA decline and eliminating infectious virus.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 31, 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.

Latest JAK inhibitor trials for severe skin disease are a success

A new study led by Yale University shows that one in three patients with a severe skin disease called alopecia areata were able to regrow hair after being treated with a common arthritis drug. The Phase 3 clinical trials used baricitinib, a Janus kinase inhibitor, to treat the condition.

SourceYale University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 31, 2022

Better crime scene testing

Researchers at Flinders University have developed more accurate special aerosol fluorescent dye 'marker' to find touch DNA, and found that some people shed more or less DNA on their thumbs. This new study helps understand the difference between high, intermediate and low skin 'shedders', which will aid in crime scene investigation.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Science International Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Mutations in noncoding DNA protect the brain from ALS

Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science discover a new neuroprotective pathway linked to mutations in the IL18RAP gene, located in noncoding DNA. These protective mutations reduce inflammation and slow disease progression in ALS patients by nearly fivefold.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 31, 2022

Self-standing mesoporous Si film can power lithium-ion batteries

A self-standing mesoporous Si film anode has been developed for lithium-ion batteries, exhibiting excellent performance without the need for additives or binders. The film's pore characteristics show a strong correlation with electrode performance.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMar 31, 2022

New insights into FXTAS could inform future research and clinical trials

A long-term study of FXTAS carriers has identified key indicators of disease progression, including cognitive decline and motor symptoms. Researchers hope to develop a validated tracking tool to monitor premutation carriers and patients with FXTAS.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateMar 31, 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.

Scientists identify asymmetry in the pressure anomalies of the mid–high latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere

Research reveals eight patterns of SAM events with distinct zonal asymmetries, including symmetric, split-center, West Antarctica, and tripole patterns. These patterns may help classify and discuss formation causes and climate impacts of different SAM events.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMar 31, 2022

Structure of a bacterial “drug pump” reveals new way to counter hospital-borne infection

Researchers have designed a therapeutic that sabotages the bacterial 'drug pump', restoring antibiotic effectiveness against drug-resistant strains. The breakthrough uses antibodies to overcome structural challenges, revealing a potential new treatment against MRSA and other resistant pathogens.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

New study suggests increased flu vaccination among U.S. home healthcare workers could reduce patient illness and hospitalization

A new study suggests increasing flu vaccination among US home healthcare workers could significantly reduce flu-related illnesses and hospitalizations among elderly patients. The research highlights the association between HHC staff flu-vaccination rates and patient illness at a national level.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 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.

Synchrotron light for faster and more effective tooth whitening treatments

Researchers developed a new tooth whitening treatment using synchrotron light, showing improved application time needed, efficiency, and safety. The treatment, which uses reduction via metabisulfite, promotes lower concentrations and shorter application times, reducing side effects.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalDental Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 31, 2022

Burst of accumulated zinc shows how the mineral boosts immune function, suggesting ways to improve health

A new study reveals that zinc supports immunity by developing disease-fighting immune cells called T cells and regrowing the thymus, an immune organ. Zinc supplementation also promotes immune recovery after bone marrow transplant and works even better than the natural mineral in experimental compounds.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

Positive top-line data from monotherapy arm of the ATHENA (GOG 3020/ENGOT-ov45) trial (ATHENA-MONO) significantly improves progression-free survival in first-line maintenance treatment in patients with ovarian cancer regardless of their biomarker status

The ATHENA-MONO trial shows significant improvements in progression-free survival for patients with advanced ovarian cancer treated with Rubraca as maintenance therapy. Benefit was observed across all patients, including those with homologous recombination deficiency and BRCA mutant tumors.

SourceThe GOG Foundation Inc·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 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.

The human genome is, at long last, complete

A large international team has revealed the final eight percent of the human genome, containing noncoding DNA with crucial roles in cellular functions and potentially linked to cancer. The completed sequence provides new insights into cell division and disease mechanisms.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2022

Rising parental expectations linked to perfectionism in college students

Research finds that increased parental expectations and criticism are associated with higher levels of perfectionism among college students, which can lead to negative mental health consequences. Parents' anxious expectations can perpetuate a lifelong trait, with perfectionist parents raising perfectionist children.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 31, 2022