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Science News Archive April 2021 - Page 9


Page 9 of 46

Don't go fracking my heart

A new study found that people living near fracking sites are at a higher risk of heart attacks, with rates increasing by 1.4-2.8% depending on age group and level of activity. The research also highlights the potential negative impact of fracking on cardiovascular health in rural communities.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateApr 27, 2021

Plasma acceleration: It's all in the mix

Researchers at DESY have achieved two critical milestones in developing innovative plasma accelerators. By combining nitrogen and artificial intelligence, they significantly reduced the energy distribution of accelerated electron bunches, a crucial property for various applications. The team also successfully used AI to optimize the ac...

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 27, 2021

Circadian clock in the mouse placenta

A study reveals that the mouse placenta's circadian clock regulates the expression and activity of ABCB1, a drug efflux transporter, in a 24h rhythm. This finding suggests that the timing of maternal treatment could be crucial to avoid non-desirable effects on foetal development during pregnancy.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateApr 27, 2021

Droperidol most effective sedation medication for agitation with less sides effects

A randomized trial found that droperidol was more effective than lorazepam or ziprasidone for sedation in patients with acute undifferentiated agitation. Additionally, it was associated with lower rates of respiratory depression compared to the other medications. The study suggests that larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateApr 27, 2021

Could corals use sound to communicate?

Researchers found evidence of sound-related genes in corals, which could enable them to use sound to interact with their environment. This discovery has significant implications for understanding coral communication and developing restoration and conservation projects to protect these critical ecosystems.

New approaches for teaching science remotely arise from the COVID-19 crisis

A new paper explores effective methods for teaching science remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, including experiential hands-on activities, interactive labs, and environmental science research projects. These approaches enhanced student engagement, collaboration, and learning outcomes, despite the challenges of remote instruction.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Microbiology and Biology Education·DateApr 27, 2021

Life in a wheatbelt oasis

The study highlights the importance of creating and managing habitat oases to protect remaining species in threatened habitats. The research reveals that a diverse array of habitat types is critical for the survival and thrival of birds and other animals, such as the endangered Australian numbat.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalAustralian Journal of Zoology·DateApr 27, 2021

Five new insights in the fight against COVID-19

Researchers have made significant findings in the fight against COVID-19, including a link between long-term blood vessel problems and an increased risk of heart disease. Studies also suggest promising leads for antiviral treatments and potential therapies using stem cells, as well as changes in science education during the pandemic.

Lack of educational opportunities influence drug use for rural youth

A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Wilson Majee found that rural youth who lack access to education are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse. The study suggests that a combination of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of resources, can create feelings of hopelessness and desp...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHealth & Social Care in the Community·DateApr 27, 2021

Horizontal transmission can cause severe and persistent eye inflammation

A new study by Tokyo Medical and Dental University clinicians reveals that horizontal transmission is responsible for HTLV-1 uveitis, a severe eye inflammation. The patient was treated with corticosteroids, showing promise in managing the condition, but highlighting the need to consider infection route in diagnosis and treatment.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateApr 27, 2021

Incentives could turn costs of biofuel mandates into environmental benefits

Researchers argue that targeted policies and incentives are needed to promote perennial bioenergy crops over cheaper options, reducing nitrogen runoff and improving water quality. In contrast, a cellulosic ethanol mandate with the right policies could provide substantial economic and environmental benefits.

HPV vaccination in young adults

The study estimates that only about 24% of young adults aged 18 to 21 in the United States have been fully vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV). The low vaccination rate is a cause for concern given the significant health risks associated with HPV infection, including cervical cancer and other types of cancer.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 27, 2021