Evidence of conscious-like activity in the dying brain
A new study published in PNAS reports surge of gamma activation in dying brains of humans and animals post-cardiac arrest, hinting at conscious-like activity.
Oxygen
Articles tagged with Oxygen
At-home oxygen plus vaping can lead to burns, explosions, even death
Researchers found that vaping in the presence of supplemental oxygen can ignite oxygen, leading to burns, fires, or explosions. The risk is particularly concerning for patients with end-stage COPD on oxygen who want to quit smoking by switching to vaping.
Researchers team up with national lab for innovative look at copper reactions
A team of researchers at Binghamton University partnered with Brookhaven National Laboratory to investigate copper oxide peroxides and their effects on oxidation reactions. They used two spectroscopy methods to observe changes in the surface of copper oxide and found that peroxides enhance H2 oxidation but inhibit CO oxidation.
Novel oxychloride shows high stability and oxide-ion conduction through interstitial oxygen site
A new Bi-containing compound, LaBi1.9Te0.1O4.05Cl, exhibits high chemical and electrical stability and a high oxide-ion conductivity superior to other materials at low temperatures. The unique mechanism underlying the high conductivity is explained by an interstitialcy migration of oxide ions through the lattice and interstitial sites.
Dexamethasone for inpatients with COVID-19 in a national cohort
A national cohort study found that early dexamethasone administration reduced odds of mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients needing supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation. The treatment was not associated with improved outcomes for those without such needs.
Chemists design new molecule, with oxygen as the star of the show
Researchers at Colorado State University have created a synthetic molecule with an asymmetric oxygen atom that remains stable and nonreactive. This feat is significant because chiral molecules can have drastically different properties and are crucial in fields like drug discovery and materials engineering.
Two meteorites are providing a detailed look into outer space
Researchers have identified tens of thousands of molecular 'puzzle pieces' in two meteorites, including a larger amount of oxygen atoms than expected. This analysis provides a unique window into the origin of life itself and sheds light on the formation of the universe.
Scientists discover a novel origin of abiotic oxidants on early earth: minerals
Researchers have overturned the traditional view that oxygen derives from water splitting, instead finding that reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced at mineral-water interfaces are a key source of oxygen. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the evolution of Earth's atmosphere and the habitability of early life.
Researchers discover how too much oxygen damages cells and tissues
Scientists at Gladstone Institutes have discovered how excess oxygen changes proteins in our cells, triggering a cascade of events that damage cells and tissues. The findings have implications for conditions such as heart attacks and sleep apnea, revealing that hyperoxia is not solely caused by reactive oxygen species.
Astronomers detect radio recombination lines of carbon/oxygen ions for first time
Researchers from Shanghai Astronomical Observatory detect radio recombination lines of carbon and oxygen ions for the first time, using the TianMa 65-m Radio Telescope. The discovery allows for accurate measurement of element abundances and has significant implications for studying interstellar chemistry and molecular formation.
New design for lithium-air battery could offer much longer driving range compared with the lithium-ion battery
Researchers have developed a new lithium-air battery that uses a solid electrolyte, boosting energy density four times above lithium-ion batteries. The battery can potentially power cars for over a thousand miles on a single charge and is also suitable for domestic airplanes and long-haul trucks.
Oxygen therapy subsides abnormal movements in a rare childhood disease
Researchers discovered that administering oxygen during episodes of dystonia significantly reduces symptoms and improves quality of life. The study found that rapid oxygen delivery interrupts cortical spreading depression, a phenomenon linked to hypoxia and triggering the condition.
Electrocatalysis – Iron and Cobalt Oxyhydroxides examined at BESSY II
Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin examined the chemistry of Cobalt-Iron Oxyhydroxides using X-ray absorption spectroscopy. They discovered that iron is present in higher oxidation states than previously thought, which could lead to improved electrocatalysts for water splitting and carbon dioxide reduction.
Carolina researchers develop greener alternative to fossil fuels by producing hydrogen from water and light
Carolina researchers have engineered silicon nanowires that can convert sunlight into electricity, splitting water into oxygen and hydrogen gas. This innovative design enables the production of a greener alternative to fossil fuels, making it more competitive with traditional energy sources.
Novel technique developed to obtain key chemical industry input without emitting CO2
Researchers have developed a novel technique to produce hydrogen peroxide without releasing carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The method uses photocatalysis and carbon nitride as a catalyst, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
SwRI-contributed study provides darkest view ever of interstellar ices
Researchers utilized the James Webb Space Telescope to observe dense interstellar clouds, revealing a treasure trove of pristine ices from the early universe. The study provides new insights into chemical processes in one of the coldest places in the universe, offering clues on molecular origins and sulfur storage.
Warming climate spurs harmful oxygen loss in lakes
Rondaxe Lake's experience is just one of thousands worldwide as lakes lose oxygen due to warming, leading to conditions like hypoxia and anoxia. This phenomenon, exacerbated by seasonal stratification, threatens aquatic life and ecosystems.
Earth might be experiencing 7th mass extinction, not 6th
Scientists discovered that the first complex, multicellular life forms on Earth were wiped out 550 million years ago due to oxygen loss in the oceans. The researchers used nearly every known Ediacaran animal's environment and habits to disprove previous explanations for their disappearance.
FSU researchers find decrease in crucial trace element preceded ancient mass extinction
New research from Florida State University reveals a significant decline in molybdenum across the planet's oceans approximately 183 million years ago, preceding a mass extinction event that wiped out up to 90% of marine species. The study suggests a much larger organic carbon burial than previously estimated.
Looking at oxygen storage dynamics in three-way catalysts
Researchers developed a novel technique using isotope quenching to visualize the oxygen storage process in Pd/CeO2-ZrO2 three-way catalysts. The method revealed key insights into oxygen adsorption/desorption and surface/bulk diffusion, improving exhaust gas treatment efficiency.
FSU researchers: Rapid fluctuations in oxygen levels coincided with Earth’s first mass extinction
A new study suggests that rapid changes in marine oxygen levels coincided with the Late Ordovician mass extinction, which eliminated 85% of marine species. The research team found that oxygen levels fluctuated rapidly, leading to a decline and eventual recovery, affecting marine ecosystems.
Volcanic activity and low ocean oxygen events linked to climate warming and rapid ice melt during last ice age, study finds
A study reveals a consistent pairing of volcanic ash and low ocean oxygen events during times of rapid climate warming at the end of the last ice age. The research suggests that volcanic eruptions may increase as the planet warms, posing risks to populated regions.
Structural determination of complex anion materials by an interdisciplinary approach
A team of researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed an analytical tool to investigate the ordering of fluorine in lead titanium oxyfluoride. They used first-principles calculation to analyze experimental results and determined the element substitution positions, finding that fluorine atoms predominan...
NUS researchers devise revolutionary technique to generate hydrogen more efficiently from water
Researchers at NUS discovered a new mechanism in water electrolysis that triggers a brand new electro-catalytic reaction when exposed to light. This breakthrough improves the efficiency of producing hydrogen, which can be used as a cleaner fuel source, and could revolutionize industrial processes.
Louisiana State University scientist leads a US team in international effort to understand air-sea gas exchange in Labrador Sea
A US team, led by Louisiana State University scientist Jun-Hong Liang, is studying air-sea gas exchange in the Labrador Sea to develop accurate formulas. The research aims to improve estimations of biological production and carbon dioxide/oxygen sequestration in deep oceans.
Researchers develop efficient oxygen catalysts for lithium-oxygen batteries
Researchers have fabricated 2D Mn3O4 nanosheets with dominant (101) crystal planes on graphene as efficient oxygen catalysts for Li-O2 batteries. The catalysts achieved ultrahigh capacity and long-term stability, outperforming most Mn-based oxides.
Researchers develop system for generating oxygen within cells
Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a technology that enables cells to produce oxygen on demand, opening up new avenues for research and potential clinical applications. This breakthrough could improve therapies for conditions like cancer, which often have low oxygen levels.
Mexican mangroves have been capturing carbon for 5,000 years
Researchers have discovered that Mexican mangrove forests have been absorbing and storing carbon for an impressive 5,000 years. The study found that these unique ecosystems are capable of retaining large amounts of carbon due to the presence of certain microorganisms.
Study reveals starring role for shape-shifting mitochondria in stem cell function
A study published in Cell Stem Cell found that mitochondrial dynamics regulate the dormant state of adult muscle stem cells, which are essential for tissue stability. The researchers discovered that the protein OPA1 regulates this process and its depletion leads to severe muscle stem cell defects.
Harvesting resources on Mars with plasmas
A plasma-based approach may one day convert carbon dioxide into oxygen and produce fuels, fertilizers on the red planet. The system could play a critical role in life-support systems and future human settlement on Mars.
Novel non-contact oxygen concentration measurement technique developed by Pusan National University researchers
Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel method to measure oxygen concentration in high-temperature environments without physical contact. The method uses a phosphorescent material that varies its phosphorescence depending on the surrounding oxygen concentration.
Harvard researcher awarded HSFP Program Award 2022 Research Grant to study water to land transitions in arthropod evolution
A Harvard researcher has been awarded a $1.1 million grant to study the evolution of aerial breathing in arthropods, exploring how they transitioned from water to land over 100 million years ago. The team aims to understand the role of atmospheric oxygen in facilitating this process and its impact on respiratory structures.
Racial, ethnic differences in oxygen supplementation among ICU patients
A study of 3069 ICU patients found racial and ethnic disparities in oxygen supplementation, with Asian, Black, and Hispanic patients receiving less oxygen than white patients. Pulse oximeter performance may be contributing factor to these disparities.
Pulse oximeters missed low oxygen levels in more Black veterans than White veterans
A new study found that pulse oximeters missed low oxygen levels in over 75,000 Black veterans each year, compared to fewer instances in White veterans. The study highlights the need for better, more accurate pulse oximeters and increased clinician awareness to address this issue.
Seismic waves from earthquakes reveal changes in the Earth’s outer core
Researchers have discovered changes in the Earth's outer core, which are responsible for generating the magnetic field. According to Zhou's findings, a one-second discrepancy in SKS wave travel time indicates the formation of low-density regions with light elements such as hydrogen and oxygen.
Common medical tool may delay treatment of nonwhite patients with COVID-19
A retrospective analysis of 7,000 patients found pulse oximeter devices overestimated blood oxygen levels in non-White patients, delaying treatment eligibility recognition. The study suggests that biases in pulse oximeter accuracy disproportionately affect minority communities.
Microparticles with feeling
A new method called sensPIV has been developed to measure both flow and oxygen concentrations simultaneously at the smallest scales. This breakthrough allows researchers to study how corals generate flows, increasing oxygen transport, and has potential applications in life sciences, microfluidics, and medicine.
Broadening the scope of epoxide ring opening reactions with zirconocene
Researchers at Waseda University demonstrate a novel zirconocene-catalyzed epoxide ring-opening reaction under visible light, expanding the reaction scope and regioselectivity. The approach enables accessible synthesis of elusive alcohol products with improved efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Chemists harness the sun to upcycle plastic waste
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a way to use light and oxygen to upcycle polystyrene into benzoic acid, a product stocked in chemistry labs and used in various products. The process is mild, climate-friendly, and scalable to commercial waste streams.
On Jupiter's moon Europa, ‘chaos terrains’ could be shuttling oxygen to ocean
Researchers propose that chaos terrains on Europa's surface could shuttle oxygen to the moon's subsurface ocean, where it could sustain life. The computer model showed that 86% of oxygen is transported through the ice via a 'porosity wave', potentially raising hopes for finding life in Europa's ocean.
All organisms produce methane
A study led by Frank Keppler and Ilka Bischofs reveals that all organisms release methane, with the process driven by reactive oxygen species. The researchers verified this finding in over 30 model organisms, including bacteria, archaea, yeasts, plant cells, and human cell lines.
Using raw materials more sustainably
Scientists elucidated the structures at the interface between a working catalyst and reacting molecules in vanadium pentoxide, revealing which oxygen atoms activate hydrocarbons. The study showed that temperature and gas composition influence the reaction, leading to more sustainable oxidation processes.
A new, inexpensive catalyst speeds the production of oxygen from water
Researchers at MIT have developed a new, inexpensive catalyst material that can produce oxygen from water, potentially replacing rare metals and reducing the cost of producing carbon-neutral fuels. The material, made of abundant components, allows for precise tuning and matches or exceeds the performance of conventional catalysts.
Tracking the pulse of our nation's rivers, like a Fitbit for streams
Scientists monitoring hundreds of US streams with sensor technology are gaining insights into how freshwater vital signs shift in response to land development and climate change. The data, made publicly available, will help track changes over time and provide a better understanding of the 'pulse' of streams.
A boost to sulfur metabolism
A recent study by ITQB NOVA scientists uncovered the crucial role of a small marker protein, DsrD, in increasing metabolic activity for sulfate respiration. The findings suggest that DsrD acts as an allosteric activator of the DsrAB dissimilatory sulfite reductase, enhancing energy efficiency in microbial metabolism.
Predicting the efficiency of oxygen-evolving electrolysis on the Moon and Mars
New research investigates electrolysis efficiency on the Moon and Mars, finding that lower gravity reduces oxygen production by 11%. The study provides valuable insights for establishing life support systems and power budgets for future human settlements.
Climate change has likely begun to suffocate the world’s fisheries
New research finds the ocean's middle depths are already losing oxygen at unnatural rates and will reach a critical threshold in 2021. Climate change is expected to impact marine ecosystems worldwide, affecting fisheries and other resources.
What the rise of oxygen on early Earth tells us about life on other planets
Researchers from McGill University found that oxygen levels rose with complex eukaryotic ecosystems, indicating low oxygen was a significant limitation on evolution for billions of years. The discovery has implications for searching for biosignatures in other planets, focusing on ozone detection.
Researchers have succeeded in mapping the photosynthetic properties of the fastest growing alga in the world
The study found that efficient metabolic processes and recycling of components used by the enzyme RuBisCO significantly speed up photosynthesis in Chlorella ohadii. This discovery could lead to improving photosynthesis efficiency in other plants, developing new engineering tools for sustainable food production.
Researchers find low oxygen and sulfide in the oceans played greater role in ancient mass extinction
Researchers found that reducing conditions, including low oxygen and hydrogen sulfide levels, played a greater role in the Late Ordovician Mass Extinction. The study used geochemical proxies to examine ocean conditions, finding evidence of higher oxygen levels in some areas, which supported life.
New research questions ‘whiff of oxygen’ in Earth’s early history
A new study analyzing the rock record rules out atmospheric oxygen before the Great Oxygenation Event, potentially rewriting our understanding of Earth's past. The research team used high-resolution techniques to inspect specimens of the rock, finding evidence that chemical data suggesting early oxygen may have been introduced later.
Top cross-country skiers go wicked fast – but they mostly train at low intensity
Researchers found that training at low intensity can be just as effective as high-intensity training in improving endurance and technique. Elite male cross-country skiers trained for several hours, with the majority of their sessions taking place at low intensity.
Association of weight loss surgery with severity of COVID-19
A study of nearly 12,000 obese patients found that substantial weight loss achieved through weight loss surgery was associated with improved outcomes after contracting COVID-19, including lower risk of severe disease. The results suggest that weight loss surgery may help mitigate the severity of COVID-19 in individuals with obesity.
Secret embraces of stars revealed by Alma
Researchers studied 15 unusual stars in the Milky Way galaxy, discovering that all have recently undergone a rare phase where one star engulfs another. The findings provide new insight into the sky's most dramatic phenomena and may help answer questions about how stars live and die.
Blood bubbles reveal oxygen levels #ASA181
Researchers have developed microbubbles that can acoustically detect blood oxygen levels, showing a strong correlation between oxygen concentration and acoustic bubble response. This innovation has the potential to benefit medicine and imaging by evaluating oxygen-deprived regions of tumors and in the brain.
Hypoxia tolerance: naked mole-rats may provide secret to low oxygen survival
Researchers discovered that naked mole-rats rapidly decrease uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in brown adipose tissue to conserve energy in hypoxia. This mechanism may hold secrets for humans to survive and thrive in low-oxygen environments, particularly in relation to diseases like stroke and chronic pulmonary disorders.
Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology makes breakthrough on new electronic material
Researchers at GIST have made a breakthrough in creating a perovskite material with easily tunable electrical properties. The study used ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and low energy electron diffraction to investigate the effects of fabrication conditions on the material's surface.
Biased tech could determine who gets life saving therapy
A study found that racial bias in oxygen readings during the pandemic can lead to unequal access to life-saving ECMO therapy. The analysis, using a comprehensive international database, revealed higher rates of discrepancies in Black patients compared to white patients.
SwRI-led team produces a new Earth bombardment model
A new model by a SwRI-led team applies geologic evidence to understand how oxygen levels in the Earth's atmosphere evolved. The results indicate that large impacts may have contributed to the scarcity of oxygen, delaying its oxidation.
How asteroid, comet strikes may have delayed evolution of the atmosphere
Researchers found asteroid and comet collisions occurred more frequently than thought, potentially delaying oxygen accumulation in the atmosphere. The study suggests that these impacts may have created an 'oxygen sink' that reduced atmospheric oxygen levels.