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Science News Archive April 2022 - Page 18


Page 18 of 37

Lithium’s narrow paths limit batteries

Researchers found uneven charge distribution within lithium iron phosphate cathodes due to misaligned particles, leading to reduced battery performance. Introducing porosity or aligning particles could potentially improve uniform lithium insertion, enhancing energy density and charge/discharge rates.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2022

Bacterial soundtracks revealed by graphene membrane

A team of researchers from Delft University of Technology has captured the sound of a single bacterium using a graphene membrane. The graphene drum detected tiny oscillations caused by the bacteria's flagella, which can be converted into a 'soundtrack' and listened to. This technology has enormous implications for detecting antibiotic ...

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 18, 2022

Guiding a superconducting future with graphene quantum magic

Scientists have identified magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene as a promising material for high-temperature superconductivity. Researchers found that nematic order in MATBG originates from the interference between fluctuations of a novel degree-of-freedom combining valley and spin degrees.

SourceNagoya University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 18, 2022

Study explores what food sector needs to know about how to reduce sodium

A comprehensive review of scientific literature on sodium reduction strategies in food production identifies five main approaches: salt reduction, salt replacers, flavor modification, physical modification, and functional modification. These methods can help food companies reduce sodium content while maintaining palatability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalComprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 18, 2022

Variable schedules harm workers and businesses

A new study by Cornell University found that variable work schedules lead to higher turnover rates due to economic security concerns, health issues, and work-life balance problems. This increased turnover negatively impacts business performance during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateApr 18, 2022

Excess weight almost doubles risk of womb cancer

A recent study funded by Cancer Research UK has found that excess weight almost doubles a woman's risk of developing womb cancer. The study analyzed genetic samples from over 120,000 women and found that markers such as fasting insulin and testosterone increase the risk of womb cancer.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 18, 2022

Extreme genetic drift in the Maniq hunter-gatherers of southern Thailand

A recent study on the Maniq population found they exhibit high levels of genetic differentiation, similar to other isolated populations. The researchers also discovered that the Maniq retain a unique hunter-gatherer lifestyle and Hòabìnhian-related ancestry, setting them apart from other Southeast Asian groups.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateApr 18, 2022

Regenerative potential of solid bone marrow aspirate concentrate

Researchers have discovered that a new type of solid bone marrow aspirate concentrate exhibits enhanced migratory potential and promotes greater cell growth compared to traditional platelet-rich fibrin. This breakthrough may lead to the development of novel therapeutics for promoting wound healing and bone regeneration.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTissue Engineering Part A·TypeCase study·DateApr 18, 2022

Genetics affects functions of gut microbiome

A recent study by Cornell scientists explores the relationship between human genetics and gut microbiome functions, identifying correlations between genetic variations and microbiome-associated traits. The research, led by Ilana Brito, uses a novel computational approach to model the distribution of functions and species within the hum...

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 18, 2022

Study: Black kidney transplant patients exhibit faster clearance rates of key immunosuppressive medicine tacrolimus

A new study found that Black kidney transplant recipients exhibit a faster clearance rate of tacrolimus, an immunosuppressive drug. The study suggests that considering both sex and race when dosing tacrolimus may reduce adverse effects and enhance transplant outcomes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPharmacotherapy The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy·DateApr 18, 2022

It’s all in the hiPS

A team of researchers from Osaka University and Kyoto University developed a stem cell-based biomaterial, hiPS-Cart, to treat IVD degeneration and prevent further deterioration. The biomaterial was able to survive and maintain its functionality in lab rats with NP removal, reversing IVF and vertebral bone degeneration.

SourceOsaka University·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2022

Association of subjective memory complaints with structural brain abnormalities, cognitive decline among older adults

Researchers found a strong association between subjective memory complaints and larger white matter hyperintensity volumes, indicating abnormal brain structure. The study also showed faster cognitive decline among those with subjective memory complaints, highlighting their importance as an early sign of cognitive impairment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 15, 2022

DIY digital archaeology: New methods for visualizing small objects and artifacts

Two new methods for producing high-resolution visualizations of small artefacts are presented, allowing anyone to create high-quality images and models with minimal effort and cost. The protocols provide detailed workflows for photographic acquisition and processing, enabling replicability and reproducibility in the field of archaeology.

How bacteria evade bacteriophages in vivo

Scientists discovered that bacteria adapt their gene expression to evade bacteriophages in the gut environment, reducing susceptibility to infection. This finding paves the way for improved use of phages in therapeutic purposes.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2022

Many physicians have misconceptions about e-cigarettes

A Rutgers study found that nearly 70% of physicians report patients asking about e-cigarettes, yet most incorrectly believe all tobacco products are equally harmful. E-cigarettes were more likely recommended for heavy smokers seeking cessation, while FDA-approved medications were preferred for lighter smokers.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateApr 15, 2022

A key brain region for substance use disorders now has a searchable atlas of distinct cell populations

Scientists have created a searchable atlas of distinct cell populations in the ventral tegmental area, a key brain region involved in reward-directed behavior and substance use disorders. The study identified 16 cell populations, including classic dopaminergic neurons, glutamatergic neurons, and GABAergic neurons.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2022

Slow and steady wins the race – a tale of molecules dancing in a different way

Researchers have identified a new molecular process called SAP that enables liquids to equilibrate efficiently at low temperatures. This process, which is slower than structural mobility, allows molecules to cooperate and reduce their internal energy, making it possible for materials to achieve equilibrium within a reasonable time frame.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 15, 2022

Rain, floods and green infrastructure: Are cities mitigating the hazards equitably?

Research from Portland State University finds that cities are inconsistently placing green infrastructure in areas prone to flooding, disproportionately affecting non-white and low-income residents. However, some cities like Portland and Phoenix are making efforts to increase investments in these neighborhoods.

SourcePortland State University·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 15, 2022