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Science News Archive February 2022 - Page 24


Page 24 of 40

New species of marine plankton discovered, an overlooked source of nutrients in the oceans

Researchers have discovered two new and unusual species of diatoms that fix nitrogen, a critical process supporting productivity in nutrient-poor open ocean waters. These diatoms harbor symbiotic cyanobacteria that convert dissolved nitrogen gas into ammonia, enabling them to thrive in nutrient-poor conditions.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

'Molecular Velcro' enables tissues to sense, react to mechanical force

A University of Illinois study discovered that cadherin proteins can sense mechanical stress and alter cell communication, promoting tissue growth and tumorigenesis. The findings suggest a potential mechanism for preventing certain types of tissue growth by mutating cadherin molecules.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Withdrawal of rivers and lakes is faster near cities

A study published in AGU Advances found that water depletion from rivers and lakes accelerates near urban centers due to factors like increased evaporation and groundwater exploitation. Researchers analyzed satellite imagery of the US from 1984 to 2018 and developed a model predicting surface water loss proximity to cities.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalAGU Advances·DateFeb 10, 2022

Breakthrough in cathode chemistry clears the path for Li-S batteries' commercial viability

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a stable sulfur cathode that functions in a commercially viable carbonate electrolyte, enabling Li-S batteries with three times the capacity of Li-ion batteries and lasting over 4,000 recharges. This breakthrough paves the way for more sustainable battery alternatives.

SourceDrexel University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Three Exeter researchers win Discovery Fellowships

Three University of Exeter researchers Dr Jasmine Ono, Dr Luis Yanez Guerra and Dr Jane Usher have been awarded BBSRC Discovery Fellowships for innovative research in biotechnology and biological sciences. They will focus on improving scientific knowledge to develop better treatments for human fungal pathogens and understanding the ori...

Promising molecule for treatment of COVID-19

Researchers at Uppsala University have designed a molecule that inhibits the replication of coronaviruses, including the new variant, with great potential for developing an antiviral drug. The molecule has been shown to be effective against both old and new variants, offering hope for treatment options.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Closing in on the carbon costs of wildfires

A new study suggests that wildfires can lead to increased soil carbon stocks in savannahs and grasslands, potentially offsetting short-term emissions. The research found that fires could store up to 90 million tonnes of carbon per year, but the breakdown rate of charcoal in soils remains uncertain.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 10, 2022

Symptom persistence during first year following traumatic brain injury

A study of over 2,000 participants found that traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients reported an average of 3.5 problematic symptoms after a year, with physical symptoms declining and cognitive symptoms remaining constant. The research highlights the importance of addressing TBI-related symptoms in patients' daily lives.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·TypeCase study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Advanced solutions for agriculture: strategies for the Near East and North Africa facing climate change

The study analyzes the costs and effectiveness of climate change adaptation measures in agriculture, highlighting integration of different techniques as a key factor. Climate smart agriculture and conservation agriculture can provide benefits in terms of both adaptation and mitigation of climate change.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalClimate Policy·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 10, 2022

Pusan National University researchers show how radiative coolers can “beat the heat” off solar cells

Pusan National University researchers demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating a radiative cooler with a multi-junction solar cell, achieving a 6°C temperature drop and a 2% increase in open-circuit voltage. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and eco-friendly solar cells, paving the way for renewable energy sources.

SourcePusan National University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Gene variants increase risk of kidney failure in Black veterans with COVID-19: study

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine has found that gene variants increased the risk of acute kidney injury and death in African American veterans hospitalized with COVID-19. The study, which analyzed data from over 850,000 diverse veterans, identified APOL1 variants as a key contributor to this increased risk.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 10, 2022

Illuminating real-time brain dynamics of neuropeptides with a fluorescent biosensor

Scientists have developed a genetically encoded biosensor called OxLight1, which enables them to study the action and release mechanisms of neuropeptides like orexin in living mice. The researchers found that the level of orexin release correlates with neuronal activity, revealing previously invisible aspects of healthy brain function.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Methods·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Study of U.S. employees defines the odds of COVID-19 reinfection

A new US-based study published in PLOS Biology found that most people who have had COVID-19 are protected against reinfection for at least six months. The research analyzed data from 4,441 SpaceX employees and estimated an odds ratio of 0.14 to 0.28 for reinfection depending on the time period considered.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 10, 2022

New planet detected around star closest to the Sun

Astronomers have detected a new planet orbiting Proxima Centauri, the closest star to our Solar System, with a mass comparable to that of Earth. The newly discovered planet, named Proxima d, orbits its star at just five days, within the habitable zone.

SourceESO·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateFeb 10, 2022

Large majority of citizens trust science

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that the majority of citizens trust science, with a significant increase in trust since the pandemic began. The study also revealed that educational level is a key factor in shaping trust judgment, and that scientists' intentions and expertise are crucial in maintaining public trust.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 10, 2022

Newly Identified Protein May Help Diagnose Ulcerative Colitis, Researchers Say

Researchers have discovered a potential new diagnostic marker for ulcerative colitis, identifying high levels of antibodies targeted at endothelial protein C receptors in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The discovery could lead to the development of non-invasive blood tests to diagnose and track the progression of the disease.

SourceTohoku University·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateFeb 10, 2022

Study finds previous COVID-19 infection, but not vaccination, improves performance of antibodies and potentially provides longer-term protection

A study found that previous COVID-19 infection improves the performance of antibodies and potentially provides longer-term protection, especially in obese individuals. In contrast, vaccination does not enhance antibody quality and may not provide sustained immunity in those who have been previously infected or overweight.