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Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 11


Page 11 of 47

Elevated levels of a specific protein found to correlate with inflammatory symptom severity in COVID

A new study found elevated levels of transforming growth factor beta-induced protein (TGFBIp) in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, correlating with disease severity. The research suggests TGFBIp could serve as a viable therapeutic target to treat severe inflammation and cytokine storms in patients with severe COVID-19.

Wrong number of fingers leads down wrong track

Researchers from the Universities of Bonn and Opole have discovered a fossilized hand with five metacarpal bones in a Late Triassic temnospondyl, Metoposaurus krasiejowensis. This finding is significant because it challenges the long-held assumption that early ancestors of modern frogs and salamanders had only four fingers. The discove...

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateJul 24, 2020

Ocean features and changes in the past are explored to anticipate future climate

A study by the University of the Basque Country analyzed microfossils from 176 species of benthic foraminifera, identifying evidence of climatic events, including cold periods like Younger Dryas and warm intervals like Bolling-Allerod. The research provides insights into the biodiversity of the Bay of Biscay during the Quaternary period.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalQuaternary International·DateJul 24, 2020

Serendipity broadens the scope for making graphite

Curtin University researchers have discovered a new method for creating crystalline graphite using an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, without the need for metal catalysts or special raw materials. The technique was developed by Master-level student Jason Fogg, who used short fast pulses to heat samples to extreme temperatures.

SourceCurtin University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2020

High-protein distillers dried grains with solubles provide high quality pig nutrition

Researchers found ProCap DDGS contains more crude protein and amino acids than conventional de-oiled DDGS, and its standardized ileal digestibility is nearly all amino acids. The product also provides approximately 1,200 kcal per kilogram of metabolizable energy more than conventional DDGS.

Solving the jigsaw puzzle of regional carbon budgets

A new study has provided the first global 'bottom-up' terrestrial carbon budget, estimating a net sink of -2.2 ± 0.6 Pg C y-1 between 2000 and 2009. The study reveals that a significant portion of carbon fixed in terrestrial ecosystems is lost through fires, emissions, and export to rivers, rather than being retained in the soil.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 24, 2020

Researchers make significant step toward blood test for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed a technique to detect minute amounts of p-tau-217, a protein fragment linked to Alzheimer's disease in the blood. The levels of this protein are elevated during the early stages of the disease and can accurately predict the presence of amyloid plaques in PET scans.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 24, 2020

Livestock expansion is a factor in global pandemics

Research shows a correlation between epidemics in humans and local biodiversity loss, with the number of epidemics increasing as endangered species disappear. Livestock expansion worldwide exacerbates this risk, facilitating the transmission of pathogens.

SourceCNRS·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJul 24, 2020

Mouse study shows spinal cord injury causes bone marrow failure syndrome

Researchers at Ohio State University found that spinal cord injuries in mice cause an acquired bone marrow failure syndrome contributing to chronic immune dysfunction. The study also discovered a potential treatment using the FDA-approved drug Plerixafor to mobilize cells from the bone marrow niche and restore immune function.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2020