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Science News Archive March 2022 - Page 40


Page 40 of 44

Controversial policy to reconcile mining and biodiversity conservation demonstrates success

A new study by Bangor University suggests that a biodiversity offsetting scheme at Ambatovy mine in Madagascar has successfully achieved 'No Net Loss' of the unique forest habitat destroyed by the mine. The study, which used state-of-the-art approaches to evaluate the impact of the mine's strategy, found that the offsets have saved nea...

SourceBangor University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2022

Evidence links e-cigarette use with increased odds of prediabetes

A large US survey found a strong association between e-cigarette use and prediabetes, with users having higher prevalence of high-risk lifestyle factors and worse health status. The study's findings challenge the promotion of e-cigarettes as a safer smoking alternative.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2022

Why some bubbles move faster

Researchers found that polymer molecules interact with the flow around gas bubbles, causing a sudden increase in velocity. This knowledge can be used to predict oxygen input and design equipment for industries like biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalJournal of Non-Newtonian Fluid Mechanics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 3, 2022

Meta-analysis of 15 studies reports new findings on how many daily walking steps needed for longevity benefit

A meta-analysis of 15 studies found that taking more daily steps helps lower the risk of premature death, with benefits seen in adults younger and older than 60. The study suggests that walking at least 6,000-8,000 steps per day for older adults and 8,000-10,000 steps per day for younger adults may be optimal for longevity.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 3, 2022

Trust in government linked to work attitudes

A recent study found that people with high levels of trust in government are more likely to have better workplace attitudes, adhere to COVID-19 guidelines and experience greater psychological well-being. The study suggests that communicating clearly and transparently can bolster trust at all levels.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2022

Study: Cities not fully engaging public health agencies in climate change planning

A study of 22 large cities across 14 countries reveals that more than one-quarter did not involve public health agencies in their climate change plans. Despite this, 73% reported having a public health department on their climate-plan teams. The researchers recommend enhancing public health agency involvement to target activities to th...

Major political transformations can have an influence on employee wellbeing

A recent survey of British academics reveals that significant political transformations like Brexit can negatively affect employee wellbeing, particularly when perceived as threatening rather than challenging. The study emphasizes the importance of job security and quality of co-worker relationships in maintaining personal wellbeing.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalEuropean Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 3, 2022

Development of semiconductor microchip that can detect prostate cancer markers with ultra-high sensitivity

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed a microchip capable of detecting ultra-low concentrations of prostate cancer antigens using flexible nanosheets. The chip's lower detection limit is comparable to that of large testing devices, enabling fast and accurate diagnosis.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalSensors·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2022

Attention! Brain scans can tell if you are paying it

Researchers at Yale University have developed a model that uses brain scans to predict an individual's ability to pay attention. The study found that the brain's activity patterns can be used to create a unique fingerprint of attention abilities, which can help diagnose ADHD and improve focus.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMar 3, 2022

Researchers reconstruct ancient fish lizard

Researchers at Lund University have created a scientifically accurate reconstruction of an ichthyosaur, a prehistoric marine reptile that lived for 160 million years. The team used clay sculpturing and 3D printing techniques to create the life-size model, which is now on public display.

SourceLund University·JournalEarth-Science Reviews·DateMar 3, 2022

Changes in air pollution linked with dry spells in Asia and summer heatwaves in Europe

New research from the University of Reading found that changes in air pollution levels in Asia and Europe may have driven prolonged European summer extremes and Central Asian dry spells. The study revealed that air pollution reductions in Europe strengthened the jet stream, while increases in Asia weakened it.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 3, 2022

Study highlights need for better education, support for patients with preeclampsia

A recent study published in BMJ Open found that many women with preeclampsia lack awareness about symptoms and long-term cardiovascular risks, underscoring the need for improved patient education and support. The research team surveyed over 800 pregnant women, revealing a significant gap in mental health support and preventive measures.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalBMJ Open·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2022

Women with irregular periods may be at risk for liver disease

Researchers found that long or irregular menstrual cycles in young women are associated with an increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is a chronic condition where excess fat builds up in the liver, increasing the risk of death. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of NAFLD in these women.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 3, 2022

An oral medication shows benefits treating Type 1 diabetes for at least two years after diagnosis

Researchers found that verapamil treatment delayed disease progression, lowered insulin requirements, and preserved some beta cell function in patients with Type 1 diabetes. The study used proteomics analysis and RNA sequencing to examine changes in circulating proteins in response to verapamil treatment.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2022

Computer games in the classroom: educational success depends on the teacher

A new study by University of Cologne researchers reveals that computer games can significantly boost educational success when used effectively in the classroom. The study found that personal characteristics of pre-service teachers play a crucial role in their intention to adopt digital game-based learning, with perceived effectiveness ...

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalBritish Journal of Educational Technology·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2022

Lipid profiling can predict risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease decades before onset

A new study reveals that simultaneous measurement of dozens of types of fats in the blood can predict the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease years in advance. The researchers found that individuals with a certain lipid profile are at increased risk, while those with a different profile have lower risk. This d...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2022

Discovering dopamine’s involvement in transition to REM sleep in mice suggests a druggable sleep disorder target

A new study found that increased dopamine levels in the brain's basolateral amygdala trigger the transition from non-rapid eye movement (NREM) to rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This discovery raises hopes for developing targeted treatments for sleep disorders such as narcolepsy and Parkinson's disease.

Grandparents’ support for grandchildren may decrease when family with children faces challenges – except for maternal grandmothers

A study by University of Turku found that grandparents' support decreases with adverse experiences in children's families. However, maternal grandmothers' support remains consistent. The study suggests that future prospects for successful reproduction may impact grandparents' willingness to offer support.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2022

People rethink nationalist beliefs in uncertain times

A recent study explores how individuals rethink nationalist ideology during uncertainty and disruptive social change. Researchers found that people's conflicted thinking affects their understanding of national identity, with tensions arising from the clash of nationalist principles and real-life experiences.

SourceCornell University·JournalEthnic and Racial Studies·DateMar 3, 2022

When trust in government slumps: A pandemic survey

A pandemic survey conducted by University of Auckland psychologist Dr Lixin Jiang found that only about 27 percent of workers trusted both federal and state governments. People with high levels of trust in government felt more secure in their jobs, had higher employer loyalty, and were more likely to help co-workers.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2022

Time off after high school makes college less likely

A new Cornell University study finds that even brief academic breaks can lead to an 8% reduction in college enrollment rates, particularly among disadvantaged students. The break had a larger impact on those from poor academic and socioeconomic backgrounds, reducing early-career earnings for high-ability students.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateMar 3, 2022

Most children living in out of home care don’t access health services

A new study found that most children living in out-of-home care don't access health services within nationally required timeframes, highlighting a significant gap in the system. The research revealed that only one in 130 had attended all recommended health services within 12 months of entering out-of-home care.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2022

Changing your mind based on information, or simply to conform? Brain activity differentiates between types of social influence

A study published in PLOS Biology reveals distinct brain regions associated with informational and normative social influence. The researchers found that the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) is active when people conform to information, while normative influence is linked to stronger connections between dACC and other social pro...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2022