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Science News Archive September 2022 - Page 3


Page 3 of 38

To be heavy or not - that is the question

Researchers studied the bones of an extinct amphibian species and found that its shoulder girdle was densely compact, similar to modern manatees. This adaptation allowed the creature to sink and hunt underwater, while its smaller legs and rounded skull suggest it may have only surfaced occasionally.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Anatomy·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 29, 2022

Unraveling the reward behavior: mechanisms underlying the dopamine signaling pathway

A team of researchers identified a protein kinase substrate downstream of the dopamine signaling pathway regulating brain reward behavior. The study found that phosphorylation of potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 2 (KCNQ2) decreases its channel activity, increasing neuronal excitability and promoting reward behavior.

SourceFujita Health University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2022

National Jewish Health led study identifies emerging illnesses from COVID-19 in children

A National Jewish Health led study found that children who develop shortness of breath after COVID-19 infection have evidence of peripheral airway obstruction, leading to persistent fatigue and limited participation in sports and everyday activities. The study identified reversible peripheral airway obstruction and lung hyperinflation ...

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2022

First probable impact crater discovered in Spain

Researchers identify signs of an impact crater on the Iberian Peninsula for the first time, revealing a 4-kilometer-wide structure surrounded by 20-kilometer-large sedimentary collapse area. The discovery was made after 15 years of research involving international teams from Spain and Europe.

Milky Way’s graveyard of dead stars found

A new study has created the first map of the Milky Way's ancient dead stars, which reveals a 'galactic underworld' stretching three times the height of the galaxy. The map shows that almost a third of objects have been flung out from the galaxy, with neutron stars and black holes formed when massive stars collapse.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 29, 2022

Make cooking safe for all – including those in developing countries, say indoor air pollution experts

The study found that kitchens with more people present during cooking sessions exhibited higher carbon dioxide levels. Kitchens with both doors and windows open during cooking showed optimal thermal comfort conditions, reducing CO2 levels by 14%. Cleaner fuels and electric appliances can reduce CO2 levels within a kitchen by over 32%.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Building Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2022

Algae as microscopic biorefineries

Researchers introduce synthetic catalysts into algae cells, enabling chemical reaction upgrades to produce building blocks for polymers and chemicals. The process reduces reliance on fossil raw materials, using atmospheric carbon dioxide as a carbon source.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 29, 2022

Lipids in blood predict nerve damage risk among patients with type 2 diabetes

A study at Michigan Medicine found multiple lipid biomarkers linked to diabetic neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes. High scores for neuropathy were associated with changes in lipids reflecting impaired energy metabolism, suggesting a potential target for testing and managing the condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2022

Do humans think computers make fair decisions?

A study published in Cell Press found that when humans are involved, computer decisions are perceived as fairer. Participants deemed decisions related to positive outcomes fairer than negative ones and had concerns over fairness in systems with higher stakes. The results suggest that automated decision-making systems need careful desig...

SourceCell Press·JournalPatterns·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2022

Mapping Honduras’ water supply

A new study by UTA hydrologist Ricardo Sánchez-Murillo has created detailed maps of Tegucigalpa's water sources, charting areas critical to recharge. These maps could help Honduras implement stricter urbanization and agriculture regulations to conserve water and protect vital landscapes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateSep 29, 2022

Improving hospital stays and outcomes for older patients with dementia through AI

Researchers developed a machine learning model to quickly recognize predictive risk factors and their importance for undesirable hospitalization outcomes. The model achieved an accuracy of 95.6% and identified modifiable risk factors that can be mitigated through clinical interventions.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Translational Research & Clinical Interventions·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2022

Hackmanite changes color also upon exposure to nuclear radiation – memory trace from radiation enables new applications

Researchers at the University of Turku discovered that hackmanite changes color when exposed to nuclear radiation, retaining a memory trace that allows it to be reused. This unique property enables the development of reusable radiochromic films for measuring radiation doses and mapping dose distribution.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalMaterials Horizons·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2022

Less bird diversity in city forests

A study by Lund University found that cities negatively impact bird diversity in natural woodlands, with on average a quarter fewer species in urban forests compared to rural ones. This suggests that urban development can lead to biotic homogenization of woodland bird communities.

SourceLund University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 29, 2022

OSU study finds higher rates of traumatic injuries for outdoor workers during hotter weather

A recent OSU study found that traumatic injury rates among outdoor workers in Oregon's agricultural and construction sectors are significantly higher during periods of high heat. The study examined 92,000 injury claims from 2009-2018 and found a strong association between heat index above 75 degrees and increased risk of injury.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHealth Science Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2022

Computers calling time on isolation

A new simulation models the potential risks and benefits of ending early isolation for Covid-19 patients using antigen tests. The study finds that shortening isolation periods can reduce unnecessary disruption in people's lives while minimizing the risk of infecting others.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2022

Detailing a disastrous autumn day in ancient Italy

Researchers at the University of Connecticut uncovered a remarkably well-preserved Early Bronze Age village in Afragola, Italy, providing insights into daily life and agriculture during this era. The site reveals a diverse range of food sources, including grains, fruits, and nuts, as well as evidence of seasonal changes, thanks to the ...

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2022

Power of the pulpit

A University of Houston study suggests that attending religious services regularly can lead to lower mortality rates among Black men in their 50s and older. The study found that these men who attended services at least once weekly had better health profiles, including lower rates of smoking and drinking.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2022