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Science News Archive February 2023


Page 1 of 36

Wastewater sector emits nearly twice as much methane as previously thought

New research reveals that municipal wastewater treatment plants release significantly more methane into the atmosphere than previously estimated. The findings suggest that existing guidelines underestimate emissions equivalent to 5.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. Anaerobic digesters, used in some facilities, are particularly s...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 28, 2023

New study shows people are willing to start cycling more post-COVID-19 pandemic

A new study by University of Central Florida researchers found that people who are more environmentally friendly and satisfied with their life are more likely to cycle post-pandemic. The survey analysis of over 7,000 respondents showed a significant increase in cycling intentions among women without vehicles and full-time employees.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2023

Breathing is going to get tougher

A new study finds that rising temperatures will increase harmful plant emissions and dust, leading to a 14% boost in air pollution. The degradation in future air quality from natural sources is predicted to be significant, with two-thirds of the pollution coming from plants.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Profiling abortions in low- and middle-income countries

A new study published in PLOS Global Public Health found that factors such as marriage status, age, and education are associated with pregnancy termination in 36 low- and middle-income countries. The study used data from over 1.2 million women aged 15-49 and found that married women, those over 30, and those with higher education were ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Super-fast insect urination powered by the physics of superpropulsion

Researchers discovered that glassy-winged sharpshooters use a 'superpropulsion' mechanism to launch droplets of pee at high speeds, conserving energy in the process. This innovative strategy helps the insect efficiently excrete its 99% water fluid waste.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study reveals improvements in workplace support and leadership training will improve the mental health and potentially reduce burnout in healthcare professionals

A study published by Queen Mary University of London found that feeling supported at work reduces the risk of depression, anxiety, and burnout. Improving workplace aspects such as manager approachability, consistent information, and staffing levels can significantly protect mental wellbeing in healthcare professionals.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCMAJ Open·DateFeb 28, 2023

Annals HRSA Special Supplement February 2023 Media Tip Sheet

This special supplement from Annals of Family Medicine highlights the work of six HRSA-funded academic units focused on advancing health care equity and improving primary care practices. The articles cover topics such as workforce training, mental health care seeking, socioeconomic issues, and whole-person oriented healthcare.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2023

Hollings researchers develop small molecule to stimulate natural killer cells against neuroblastoma

Hollings researchers create small molecule that targets CD38 enzyme activity, stimulating proliferation of natural killer cells and enhancing anti-cancer activity. The compound has potential as an adjuvant therapy to boost effects of existing treatments and reduce resistance to monoclonal antibodies.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Parental investment may have aided evolution of larger brains

A review of evidence suggests that increased parental energy investment in young offspring may have facilitated the evolution of larger brains in some species. This is particularly true for warm-blooded species, which tend to invest more energy in their young through actions such as egg production and lactation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

COVID-19: Bacterial co-infection is a major risk factor for death, ICU admission and mechanical ventilation

A recent study found that bacterial co-infection in COVID-19 patients significantly increased the risk of death, intensive care unit admission, and mechanical ventilation. The study reviewed 13,781 COVID-19 inpatient encounters and identified laboratory trends associated with COVID-19 bacterial co-infection.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCritical Care·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

Flower power: Research highlights the role of ants in forest regeneration

Research from Binghamton University highlights the importance of ants in forest regeneration, with over 95% of New York state forests relying on them to disperse seeds. Ants take seeds with fatty rewards back to their nests, protecting them from consumption by rodents and other organisms, promoting a mutually beneficial arrangement.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalEcology·DateFeb 28, 2023

Galactic explosion offers astrophysicists new insight into the cosmos

Researchers studied a Type 1a supernova in a faraway spiral galaxy, NGC 1566, to understand how certain chemical elements are emitted into the surrounding cosmos. The study confirms that ejecta doesn't escape the confines of the explosion, validating many assumptions about how complex entities work.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023

New insights from an ancient asteroid

Researchers at Tohoku University analyzed samples from Japan's Hayabusa2 spacecraft and identified what they believe may be the oldest solids from the solar system. The grains were likely transported outward from the inner regions of the early solar system to their current location in the outer reaches.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Sexting found to be associated with negative mental heath

A recent study found that sexting is associated with negative mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. Participants who only sent sexts reported more mental health issues than others. The study highlights the need for further research into the correlations between sexting and mental health.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeCase study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Young snapping shrimps’ tiny claws accelerate in water like a bullet

Researchers discovered that young snapping shrimp's upper claws can accelerate at speeds of up to 580,000m/s², surpassing their parents' abilities and producing powerful cavitation bubbles. The study, published in Journal of Experimental Biology, highlights the impressive mechanical capabilities of these tiny crustaceans.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

School-based wellness initiative shown to reduce average student BMI

A school-based wellness initiative led by MUSC's Boeing Center for Children's Wellness has been shown to reduce the average student BMI over time. The program, which targets policy, systems and environmental change, uses evidence-based strategies such as physical activity, nutrition and social-emotional wellness.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of School Health·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Researchers’ model for TV ad scheduling reaps revenue increase for networks

A team of researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has developed a system to optimize TV ad scheduling, resulting in a 3-5% revenue increase for networks. The model combines mathematical programming and machine learning to assign ads to specific breaks and positions.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalOperations Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2023

The strong Meiyu in history, beginning with the flood of 1608

Researchers found interdecadal variability of solar radiation impacted strong Meiyu events, particularly in the Yangtze River. The study analyzed historical data and simulations, revealing a correlation between strong solar radiation and higher frequency of strong Meiyu events.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2023

Ancient eggshells unlock discovery of extinct elephant bird lineage

Scientists have discovered a previously unknown lineage of elephant bird that roamed the wet, forested landscapes of northeastern Madagascar, using ancient eggshell DNA. This breakthrough reveals new insights into the diversity of birds that once inhabited Earth and provides clues about their extinction.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Precarious work associated with high BMI

A UIC study published in Obesity links precarious work to increases in body mass index, particularly among Latino and Black women with lower education. The researchers analyzed 20 years of data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth and found a 2.18-point increase in BMI for every 1-point increase in precarious employment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalObesity·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

Spinal cord stimulation may help diabetic neuropathy

A study found that high-frequency spinal cord stimulation significantly reduced average pain levels by 76%, while improving motor function and sensation. The therapy's long-term safety and potential disease-modifying effects are promising, but further studies are needed to confirm the results.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 28, 2023

HIV reservoirs are established earlier than expected

Researchers have discovered that HIV creates reservoirs as early as the first days of infection, hiding and persisting during antiretroviral therapy. This finding is a major obstacle to curing HIV, but it also offers new opportunities for treatment development.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

More proof that too many medications leads to adversity for older cancer patients

A new study found that polypharmacy, the concurrent use of multiple medications, increases the risk of adverse treatment outcomes in older adults with advanced cancer. Patients taking multiple medications had a 59% higher chance of stopping cancer treatment earlier than recommended.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 28, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How to predict city traffic

A new machine learning model can predict city traffic activity in different zones of cities, enabling targeted responses from policymakers. Understanding people's mobility patterns is crucial for improving urban traffic flow, and the model provides insights into urban interactions.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2023

Scientists find that bison are impacting streams in Yellowstone National Park

A new study finds that bison herds in northern Yellowstone National Park are negatively impacting riparian plant communities, leading to biotic impoverishment and loss of ecosystem services. The effects of increased bison numbers are exacerbating climate change, shifting plant communities towards warmer and drier conditions.

SourceConservation Biology Institute·JournalEcosphere·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Millet and sorghum cultivation may provide an answer to rising levels of aridity linked to climate change

Researchers from UPF's CaSEs research group have developed sustainable agricultural strategies using traditional small-scale rainfed agriculture for drought-tolerant crops like finger millet and sorghum. The study provides novel information on the intersection of traditional ecological knowledge and academic knowledge.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Liquid nitrogen spray could clean up stubborn moon dust

A liquid nitrogen spray developed by WSU researchers can remove almost all simulated moon dust from space suits with minimal damage. The technology uses the Leidenfrost Effect to clean spacesuits, performing better in vacuum environments than previous methods.

SourceWashington State University·JournalActa Astronautica·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Social media provide space for digital cosmopolitanism

A study by Dr. Roman Lietz and Dr. Fergal Lenehan found that socially engaged Twitter users share similar values and motivations, including a commitment to human rights, tolerance, and understanding. Despite the harsh environment of social media, these individuals demonstrate surprising similarities in their perspectives on society.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPersona Studies·DateFeb 28, 2023

New study to examine link between air quality, climate change, and birth outcomes

A new study by PSE Healthy Energy and the University of California, Berkeley aims to investigate the relationship between exposure to air pollution, heat, and humidity with birth outcomes. The research will analyze disparities in local exposure across the region and develop targeted solutions to protect vulnerable populations.

SourcePSE Healthy Energy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023

The largest genomic study of rare cancer metastathic pheochromocytoma identifies patients at highest risk of metastasis and those who would respond to immunotherapy

Researchers have identified markers associated with an increased risk of metastasis in patients with metastatic pheochromocytoma, allowing for personalized clinical management. The study also identifies patients who could benefit from immunotherapy treatments, paving the way for potential new therapies.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Adult smokers with mental illness consume the most caffeine in the U.S.

Researchers found adult smokers with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia drink the most caffeine, while those with mental illness are at highest risk of negative health consequences. The study suggests mood, metabolism, and self-medication may explain use patterns among this population.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPsychiatry Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Identifying the inflammatory cells behind chemo brain

Researchers identified microglia as key players in chemo brain inflammation, suggesting a potential target for treatment. In a mouse study, deleting microglia restored memory and lowered brain inflammation after paclitaxel treatment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Activation of peroxymonosulfate and photothermal for removal of phenolic organic pollutants and lignin derivatives

Researchers developed a new method for removing bisphenol pollutants and lignin derivatives using activated peroxymonosulfate and photothermal technology. The material, C-defects/C-O band-modified ultrathin porous carbon nitride, has shown faster reaction rates and improved oxidizing ability compared to conventional materials.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Obesity makes it harder to diagnose and treat heart disease

A new review paper from Mayo Clinic outlines how obesity impacts common tests used to diagnose heart disease, such as ECG, CT scan, MRI, and echocardiogram. The study highlights the need for alternative approaches to prevent weight gain in patients with heart disease.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2023

Protein-based nanoparticles designed to neutralise the SARS-CoV2 virus

Scientists at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have created spherical nanoparticles inspired by amyloid proteins that bind to the SARS-CoV2 spike protein with high affinity, preventing cell infection. The biocompatible and stable nanostructures also show great potency in blocking viral particles.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Making drinking water bacteria-free

Researchers have created a simple and inexpensive method to disinfect drinking water using silver sulfide quantum dots encased in a peptide coat. When exposed to near-infrared light, these nanoparticles kill bacteria with high efficiency, making them a promising alternative to traditional methods.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

A motion freezer for many particles

A team from TU Wien has developed a method to cool several particles simultaneously by adapting the spatial structure of a laser beam to particle motion. The technique uses far-field wavefront shaping to optimize cooling and can be achieved without knowing the exact location or movement of the particles.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 28, 2023