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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 463


Page 463 of 510

Student astronomer finds galactic missing matter

A student astronomer has developed a method to track down the Milky Way's missing matter using distant galaxies as 'locator pins'. The technique detects radio sources that have passed through a cold clump of gas, revealing a massive, invisible cloud about 10 light years from Earth.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 4, 2021

Synthesized very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids improved retinal function in mice

Synthesized very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs) have been shown to increase lipid levels in the retina and improve visual function in both normal and defective ELOVL4 mice. The study opens up a new area of research, raising questions about oral administration, blood transport, and selective targeting to the retina.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2021

Solving chronic pain during intercourse

A study published in the journal Pain identifies specialised ion channels involved in transmitting pain signals from the female reproductive tract. The research provides novel findings that could lead to improved treatment options for women experiencing chronic pelvic pain associated with endometriosis and vulvodynia.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPain·DateFeb 4, 2021

A new tool in the search for axions

Researchers have developed a new method to detect axions, which are thought to make up 26% of the universe's energy content. The BASE collaboration used ultra-sensitive detectors in Penning trap experiments to set new limits on axion-photon coupling.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 4, 2021

Mysterious organic scum boosts chemical reaction efficiency, may reduce chemical waste

Researchers found that a previously overlooked phenomenon in chemical reactions can boost efficiency and reduce waste. The discovery, led by University of Illinois researcher David Flaherty, involves the formation of an organic residue that acts as a surface redox mediator, increasing reaction rates and hydrogen peroxide production.

Switching nanolight on and off

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a platform to control layered crystals using light, producing imaging capabilities beyond common limits. The discovery provides insights for optical quantum information processing and aims to solve difficult problems in computing and communications.

SourceColumbia University·JournalScience·DateFeb 4, 2021

Surprising new research: We're more like primitive fishes than once believed

A recent genome mapping study by the University of Copenhagen found that our common fish ancestor, which lived 50 million years ago, already carried genetic codes for limb-like forms and air breathing. This discovery challenges the long-held belief that limbs and lungs evolved separately during the vertebrate transition from water to l...

Dual treatments help PTSD and depression

A sequential approach to treating comorbid PTSD and major depressive disorder has shown promising results in a randomized control trial. The study found that combining Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Behavioral Activation Therapy (BA) led to meaningful reductions in PTSD and depression severity.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Anxiety Disorders·DateFeb 4, 2021

Hidden world just below the surface

Surface slicks off West Hawai'i harbor an astounding array of marine life, including over 112 species of commercially and ecologically important fishes. These 'bioslicks' form an interconnected superhighway of nursery habitat, attracting tons of young fishes with dense concentrations of food and shelter.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 2021

Measuring melting ice

University of Delaware Assistant Professor Carlos Moffat studies coastal systems and glacial ice retreat to understand global sea level rise. He will investigate freshwater discharge and its impact on ocean circulation and marine organisms.

Ensuring healthy family mealtimes is important - and complicated

A new study from the University of Illinois highlights the complexities of healthy family mealtimes, identifying three distinct family profiles with varying levels of food security and mealtime organization. The research emphasizes the importance of addressing multiple aspects of family risk patterns to promote healthy eating habits.

Factors, rate of nurse burnout in US

A study estimated the US nurse burnout rate and identified key factors associated with leaving the profession. The research found that nurses who experienced emotional exhaustion were more likely to consider leaving their jobs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 4, 2021

The proton conduction mechanism in protic ionic liquids

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the proton conduction mechanism in protic ionic liquids, a key component in fuel cells. The study reveals that the mechanism shifts from proton hopping to vehicle mechanism with increasing acidity, enabling the development of new hydrogen ion conductors.

SourceNiigata University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateFeb 4, 2021

Charge radii of exotic potassium isotopes challenge nuclear structure theory

Researchers from University of Jyväskylä studied nuclear charge radii of exotic potassium isotopes using collinear resonance ionization spectroscopy. The results showed that the potassium isotope with a neutron number of 32 does not conform to magic neutron number criteria, challenging current understanding of nuclear forces.

Deforestation is stressing mammals out

Researchers found higher levels of glucocorticoid stress hormones in animals from smaller forest patches, indicating chronic stress. The study highlights the impact of habitat destruction on wildlife, particularly in fragmented landscapes.

SourceField Museum·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 2021