Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2021 - Page 136


Page 136 of 510

Texas Heart Institute, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) and 7 Hills Pharma pioneer significant vaccine research

Researchers have identified the potential of 7HP349 as an oral medication to strengthen the effectiveness of vaccines, particularly for populations that struggle with immunosuppression. The study suggests adding 7HP349 to standard vaccination can improve vaccine efficacy without reformulating the vaccine.

SourceTexas Heart Institute·Journalnpj Vaccines·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Walking efficiently takes next to no thought

A team of scientists found that people can adjust their walking efficiency automatically, even when distracted, without having to think about it. This ability allows for focus on other tasks while walking, such as tracking road bumps and managing daily life.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Fixing protein production errors lengthens lifespan

A recent study published in Cell Metabolism found that reducing naturally occurring errors in protein synthesis improves both health and lifespan. By engineering a mutation in ribosomes, researchers observed fewer protein mistakes and improved heat resistance, leading to longer lifespans in yeast, worms, and fruit flies.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Scientists explore method to produce composites with ‘shape memory’

Researchers investigated glass fiber-reinforced epoxy-based flat laminates with pultrusion, a fast and versatile composite manufacturing process. The study found significant promise for structural applications of these 'shape memory' composites in various industries.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalComposites Part A Applied Science and Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Contrary to expectations, study finds primate neurons have fewer synapses than mice in visual cortex

Researchers at University of Chicago and Argonne National Laboratory found that primate neurons receive two to five times fewer excitatory and inhibitory synaptic connections than similar mouse neurons. The study suggests that metabolic costs may drive larger neural networks to be sparser, as seen in primates versus mouse neurons.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 14, 2021

Supporting breastfeeding during maternal or child hospitalization

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine recommends keeping lactating mothers and their infants together, using direct breastfeeding over pump use whenever possible. The new guidelines also emphasize the importance of considering fluid needs, infection control, and creating a policy to support lactating mothers and breastfeeding children.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·TypeCase study·DateSep 14, 2021

Species in polar regions hard hit by climate change

A mathematical model developed at Linköping University predicts that many species in polar regions will become extinct due to global warming, with ecosystems already showing signs of strain. The model simulates the impact of climate change on species interactions and diversity, highlighting the importance of considering ecological proc...

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 14, 2021

Concentration of microparticles in lakes reflect nearby human activity and land use

A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that microparticle concentrations in lakes are higher than previously reported and can be predicted by surrounding land use. The researchers found that areas with more human activity and lower forest cover had higher microparticle concentrations, while lakes with more active microorganisms had...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2021

COVID-19 transmission risks rise during labor with patients’ heavier breathing

A new study by UCLA researchers reveals that respiratory emissions produced during labor and vaginal delivery can increase the risk of respiratory disease transmission. The findings support the recommendation of providing full PPE, including N95 masks, to healthcare workers in labor and delivery units to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2021

BCL11A: Evidence for neuroprotective effect

Researchers investigated BCL11A's role in dopamine-producing neurons and found that its absence makes them more susceptible to death. The transcription factor may play a protective role for neurons, which could help prevent Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Better mental health supports needed for pregnant individuals during the pandemic: study

A recent study found nearly three-quarters of pregnant individuals reported moderate to high levels of distress and one in five experienced depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. The top concerns among expectant parents included hospital policies, introducing their baby to loved ones, and conflicting medical information.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Family Physician·TypeSurvey·DateSep 14, 2021

Protein from the liver may cause Alzheimer’s disease in the brain

A new study suggests that peripherally produced amyloid-beta protein from the liver can cause neurodegeneration and brain atrophy in mice. The findings indicate that peripheral A-beta has the ability to cause neurodegeneration and may be a potential contributor to human Alzheimer's disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Novel technology makes studying gene function easier, faster and more efficient

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have developed a novel technology that enables scientists to track genetic manipulations in fruit flies more efficiently. The system uses drug-based markers for selection or counter-selection of genes, reducing the need for manual screening and increasing productivity by at least 10 times.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Energy under control

Researchers have observed the forced release of energy from a Mo isomer using an electron capture process, which could lead to the development of ultra-efficient nuclear batteries. The study, conducted at the Argonne National Laboratory, found a surprisingly high probability of occurrence for this process.

SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 14, 2021

Rapid increase in global light pollution

A new study found that global light pollution has increased significantly over the past 25 years, with the true increase potentially being much higher. The study, led by the University of Exeter, reveals that the transition to solid-state LED technology has masked the impact of light pollution in many regions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRemote Sensing·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2021

When Republicans control state legislatures, infant mortality is higher

A new study found that Republican control of state legislatures is associated with increased infant mortality rates, especially among Black infants. The research suggests that the party's influence on social determinants of health, such as safety-net programs and minimum wage, contributes to these disparities.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 14, 2021

Probotic-containing yogurt protects against microbiome changes that lead to antibiotic-induced diarrhea

A randomized clinical trial found that yogurt containing Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12 protected against harmful changes in the gut microbiome after antibiotic administration. The study also showed that levels of beneficial short-chain fatty acid acetate returned to baseline within 30 days.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNutrients·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 14, 2021