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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 118


Page 118 of 510

Magnetic stimulation of the brain can improve episodic memory

A PLOS study found that low-frequency magnetic stimulation can improve episodic memory by reducing beta-waves in the brain. The study, led by Mircea van der Plas and Simon Hanslmayr, used slow rTMS over the left prefrontal cortex to enhance verbal memory formation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021

The vicious circle of high academic achievement

A study of 604 Canadian teens found that high grades lead to higher perfectionism, which can result in anxiety, depression, and decreased motivation. Experts call for parents and educators to foster environments of self-acceptance and acknowledge successes, rather than pushing for perfection.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Development·DateSep 28, 2021

Life expectancy gap between black and white Americans closes nearly 50% in 30 years

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that life expectancy gaps between Black and white Americans have narrowed by nearly 50% over the past three decades. Improvements in healthcare access, safety-net programs, and reductions in mortality rates among Black Americans contributed to this decline.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2021

Study suggests R rate for tracking pandemic should be dropped in favour of ‘nowcasts’

A new study by University of Cambridge researchers proposes abandoning the R rate for tracking pandemics in favor of nowcasts, which forecast daily new cases and deaths based on growth rates. The Harvey-Kattuman model has already proved accurate and effective in predicting COVID-19 waves and spikes worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2021

Using off-the-shelf technology, researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute provide accessibility in diagnosing autism

A team of researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute developed a new method to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using a single 2D camera. The Computer Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI) method provides greater access to patients and shows accurate assessment with 2D technology.

SourcePROFILES, Inc.·JournalResearch in Autism Spectrum Disorders·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021

Great ape’s consonant and vowel-like sounds travel over distance without losing meaning

Scientists from the University of Warwick found that orangutan call signals, similar to precursors to human language, can travel far without losing meaning. This contradicts current mathematical models predicting sound degradation with distance, suggesting a new approach to understanding language evolution.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBiology Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2021

Antidepressants inhibit cancer growth in mice

Researchers found that antidepressants inhibit the growth of pancreatic and colon cancers in mice by blocking a mechanism used by cancer cells to evade the immune system. The findings suggest a promising approach for combining antidepressant drugs with immunotherapy to treat incurable cancers.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 28, 2021

Researchers uncover signs of ecosystem collapse in significant PNG wetland

A new study by ANU researchers has found human impacts such as deforestation and mining have significantly transformed Lake Kutubu's algal and geochemical compositions. The lake is now showing signs of ecosystem collapse, including plumes of chemicals and health issues for local communities.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2021

New radionuclide therapy identified for HER2-positive breast cancer patients

A promising radionuclide treatment has been identified for HER2-positive breast cancer patients, combining radioactive iodine therapy with single-domain antibodies targeting the HER2 antigen. The treatment demonstrates safety and efficacy in a phase I study, paving the way for further clinical development.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 28, 2021

TTUHSC technology leads successful clinical trial to treat dry eye disease

A clinical trial conducted by TTUHSC researchers found that corneal epithelial stem cell-derived eye drops significantly improved symptoms of severe dry eye disease, with patients experiencing a 23% improvement in SPEED questionnaire scores and a 17.1% improvement in OSDI scores. No adverse reactions were reported during the 12-week tr...

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Ophthalmology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 28, 2021

Study explores remarkable negative thermal expansion seen in layered ruthenates

A recent study reveals the physical properties responsible for Ca2RuO4's negative thermal expansion (NTE), a phenomenon where materials shrink when heated. The research proposes a new route to designing unconventional NTE materials, which could lead to the creation of composites showing no overall thermal expansion.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 28, 2021

Penn State to play key role in Mid-Atlantic NSF I-Corps Hub

The National Science Foundation has awarded Penn State $1.5 million as part of the Mid-Atlantic NSF I-Corps Hub, enabling entrepreneurial training and research commercialization across the region. The hub will foster collaboration among eight universities to identify promising research and support diverse innovators.

When it comes to reporting on sexual assault in media, words matter

A study by University of California, Davis researchers analyzed hundreds of Twitter and Reddit posts after news coverage of sexual assaults. They found that language in news reports can contribute to uncivil social media posts, including blaming victims and defending perpetrators. The study suggests that journalists may need to change ...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 28, 2021

“They do not care about us. They have forgotten us.” New research shows disability organisations were ‘unsung heroes’ of the COVID-19 pandemic

Research shows that people with disabilities were disproportionately excluded from pandemic planning and relief efforts, but representative disability groups provided life-saving support. Disability organisations worked tirelessly without funding to plug gaps, highlighting the need for inclusive disaster responses.

Rapid, continuous projection multi-photon 3D printing

Researchers at Purdue University developed a new method for rapid, continuous projection multi-photon 3D printing, allowing for the creation of complex structures in under a second. This technique uses spatiotemporal focusing to print entire layers instantly, enabling the production of smooth and complex shapes without layering artifacts.

Light can compute any desired linear transform without a digital processor

Researchers have developed an all-optical processor that uses spatially-engineered diffractive surfaces to compute arbitrary linear transforms, eliminating the need for digital processors. The processing speed is comparable to light propagation, and the system consumes no power except for illumination.

Scientists have proposed effective ways to reduce metal cavitation damage

Researchers developed a WC-20CrC-7Ni coating with high anti-cavitation resistance, extending the life of aquatic environment mechanisms. The coating's fine structure increases surface area, requiring more energy for crack formation. This innovation can protect critical equipment parts in power engineering, metallurgy, and shipbuilding.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Thermal Spray Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021

Intense workouts before bedtime won’t guarantee a good night’s rest, new research shows

A new meta-analysis found that intense exercise before bedtime can negatively impact sleep quality if done too close to bedtime. In contrast, exercising in the early evening can promote better sleep duration and onset. The study's authors emphasize the importance of considering individual sleep patterns and schedules.

SourceConcordia University·JournalSleep Medicine Reviews·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 28, 2021

Studies using ‘model’ organs show how SARS-CoV-2 can infect wide range of cell types and even change function of cells, including the insulin-producing cells of pancreas

Researchers used human pluripotent stem cells and organoids to study SARS-CoV-2 infection, finding that it can infect multiple cell types, including lung, colon, heart, liver, and pancreatic cells. The virus alters cellular function, including reducing insulin production in pancreatic beta cells.

AI may predict the next virus to jump from animals to humans

A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that machine learning models using viral genomes can predict the likelihood of an animal-infecting virus infecting humans. The researchers identified generalizable features in viral genomes that are independent of taxonomic relationships and developed models to identify candidate zoonoses.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 28, 2021

Researchers’ novel mind-body program outperforms other forms of treatment for chronic back pain

A new 12-week mind-body program has been shown to be highly effective in treating chronic back pain, with 64% of participants reporting being completely pain-free after six months. The program, called Psychophysiologic Symptom Relief Therapy (PSRT), addresses underlying stressors and psychological contributors to persistent pain.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalPAIN Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 28, 2021

Lifestyle changes and adhering to treatment targets can greatly reduce excess dementia risk in people with type 2 diabetes, study from UK and the Netherlands suggests

A large study of over 88,000 participants found that addressing key risk factors such as smoking, diet, and blood pressure can lower dementia risk in those with type 2 diabetes. The study also showed improvements in cognitive function and brain structure with greater adherence to treatment targets.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetes Care·DateSep 28, 2021

How to haggle

Researchers found that a low opening offer can be effective if it's within a 'fair game' window, avoiding negative emotions, but not so low that it backfires. A balance must be struck to achieve a better outcome in negotiations.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalTheory and Decision·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021