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Science News for December 29, 2020


Detective work in theoretical physics

Researchers from the University of Münster and Düsseldorf provide an in-depth summary of the dynamical density functional theory, a method used to describe interacting particles. The article covers various branches of physics and applications in chemistry, solid state physics, and biophysics.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalAdvances In Physics·DateDec 29, 2020

Significant disparities in telemedicine use, especially among older and POC patients

A recent study by University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals significant disparities in telemedicine use, particularly among older adults and patients from minority populations. The study found that patients over 55 were less likely to participate in telemedicine visits, with those over 75 being 33% less likely.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 29, 2020

Imaging of ballistic wounds, bullet composition and implications for MRI safety

A new imaging technique has been developed to identify non-ferromagnetic projectiles that are safe for MRI, enabling patients with ballistic embedded fragments to receive medical treatment. The technique uses radiography and CT images to distinguish between ferromagnetic and non-ferromagnetic bullets, allowing for safer MRI scans.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateDec 29, 2020

A single gene 'invented' haemoglobin several times

Researchers found that haemoglobins in diverse species, including humans, molluscs and crustaceans, originate from a single ancestral gene. This discovery suggests that the appearance of haemoglobin in these species was not an independent invention but rather a result of evolutionary inheritance.

SourceCNRS·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateDec 29, 2020

Polysaccharides from red algae affect mice immune systems, say FEFU scientists

Researchers found that red algae polysaccharides can suppress the activity of immune cells in lab mice, reducing leukocyte count and congenital immunity cell activity. However, it is unclear whether this effect is beneficial or detrimental, and further study is needed to understand its potential as a pharmacological substance.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research·DateDec 29, 2020

In plants, channels set the rhythm

Researchers found that plants use rapid oscillations of stems and leaves due to wind to activate molecular switches, allowing them to respond to environmental changes. This discovery highlights the importance of plant sensitivity to mechanical signals, enabling them to prepare for storms.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2020

Large transporter protein linked to schizophrenia

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences have identified a possible link between a large cholesterol transport protein and schizophrenia. Mice with disrupted ABCA13 protein showed abnormal behaviour, including impaired prepulse inhibition, suggesting a potential role in the pathophysiology of ps...

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 29, 2020

Imaging the twilight zone

Researchers used novel experimental designs to study brain activity during general anesthesia and normal sleep. They found that the effects of anesthesia and sleep on brain activity were surprisingly similar, pointing to a common central core brain network fundamental for human consciousness.