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Science News Archive April 2021 - Page 43


Page 43 of 46

Humans were apex predators for two million years

Researchers at Tel Aviv University reconstructed the nutrition of stone age humans, finding they were specialized carnivores with a high-fat diet. The study used multiple lines of evidence, including genetics, metabolism, and archaeology, to conclude that humans evolved as apex predators for two million years.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateApr 5, 2021

Researchers extend the life of a dipolar molecule

Harvard University researchers have extended the lifespan of a dipolar molecule, enabling stable qubits for quantum computing and simulation applications. The new method allows for controlled individual atom interactions, granting scientists a key resource for molecule-based quantum information processing.

A sun reflector for earth?

A team of experts, including Phoebe Zarnetske and Jessica Gurevitch, investigate the ecological impacts of reflecting sunlight to cool the planet. Their research highlights the complexity of cascading relationships between ecosystem function and climate under different scenarios.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2021

New batteries give jolt to renewables, energy storage

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new type of battery that uses aluminum, offering up to 10,000 error-free cycles and potentially replacing lithium-ion batteries. This innovative technology could provide a safer and more sustainable alternative for energy storage, addressing the challenges of intermittent solar energy.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 5, 2021

Story tips: Mighty Mo material, fueling retooling, goods on the move, doubling concrete and more

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a refractory metal alloy that can withstand extreme temperatures and is viable for additive manufacturing. The team also created an electrocatalyst that enables the conversion of water and carbon dioxide into higher weight hydrocarbons, set to reduce fuel costs.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateApr 5, 2021

For 80% of Americans with resolved drug problem, significant personal achievements

A recent study published in Psychology of Addictive Behaviors found that 80% of Americans with resolved drug problems report significant personal achievements, including self-improvement, family engagement, and civic participation. These achievements accumulate over time and are associated with greater happiness and quality of life.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateApr 5, 2021

This hydrogen fuel machine could be the ultimate guide to self-improvement

Scientists at Berkeley Lab have discovered a self-improving property in Si/GaN that enables it to become more efficient and stable as an artificial photosynthesis device. The material, made of silicon and gallium nitride, can harness sunlight into carbon-free hydrogen with twice the efficiency and stability of previous technologies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 5, 2021

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Case report describes two patients who underwent a successful second dose of the Moderna vaccine using a graded dosing protocol after experiencing immediate hypersensitivity reactions. Both patients responded well and developed IgG antibodies, suggesting effective vaccination despite the modified dosing schedule.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 5, 2021

CNIC scientists identify mutations acquired by blood cells that accelerate heart failure progression

A study published in JACC reveals that clonal hematopoiesis, a phenomenon where acquired DNA mutations accelerate heart failure progression, is an independent risk factor. The presence of specific mutant clones, including those with TET2 and DNMT3A mutations, increases the risk of hospitalization and death from heart failure.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 5, 2021

Science has not kept pace with aquaculture

A new analysis found that only 84 of the 408 farmed species had available scientific studies on their welfare, while the majority lacked information. The researchers warn that aquaculture's expansion poses great risks to individual animal lives due to insufficient knowledge.

SourceNew York University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 2, 2021