Shoot better drone videos with a single word
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a model that enables drones to capture videos evoking specific emotions, such as excitement or calmness, through camera angles and flight paths.
Science News Archive 2021 - Page 275
Browse by Month - 2021
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Immunotherapy drug delays recurrence in kidney cancer patients
A phase 3 clinical trial of adjuvant immunotherapy found that pembrolizumab prolonged disease-free survival rates in patients with kidney cancer at high risk of relapse. The estimated disease-free survival was 77.3% with pembrolizumab and 68.1% with placebo, translating to a 32% decrease in the risk of recurrence or death.
Bone marrow stem cell transplants can benefit some Type 2 diabetes patients, study shows
Researchers found that autologous bone marrow stromal stem cells can lower blood glucose levels and reduce medication doses in non-obese Type 2 diabetes patients with a short disease duration. The study's results are promising for the potential treatment of this chronic disease.
CNIC scientists identify essential factors for limb formation
The study reveals that Meis transcription factors are crucial for the formation and antero-posterior patterning of limbs. Genetic deletion of all four family members showed that these proteins are essential for limb development.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2021
New method accurately reflects hotspots in epidemic
Researchers developed a mathematical tool to evaluate the relationship between viral load and case growth, providing real-time estimates of epidemic growth rates. This new metric can help public health officials distribute resources effectively.
Secret shopper study sheds light on barriers to opioid treatment for women
A secret shopper study found that pregnant women are 20% less likely to be accepted for opioid treatment than non-pregnant women, citing long on-hold times and difficult interactions. The study highlights the need for increased access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) regardless of pregnancy status.
Linked faults under Salt Lake City may elevate risk of building damage
Research suggests that earthquakes magnitude 5.0 and larger could cause ground displacement and liquefaction in Salt Lake City, increasing the risk of earthquake-related building damage. The study identified a complex zone of folding and faulting beneath downtown Salt Lake City, which may deform the ground during a large earthquake.
Dominant factor of carrier transport mechanism in multilayer graphene nanoribbons revealed
The study reveals that the carrier transport behavior changes from semiconducting to metallic properties as the number of layers increases, with a crossover point at around five layers. This discovery provides design guidelines for graphene devices and accelerates their application in high-speed transistors and ultra-thin wiring.
What we know about water may have just changed dramatically
Scientists have discovered that water molecules respond differently to an electrode surface, affecting how substances dissolve in water and chemical reactions occur. This breakthrough could lead to more accurate simulations for water desalination and potentially provide clean water faster, cheaper, and cleaner.
Mixed farming methods could reduce US emissions and increase productivity
A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that mixed farming methods could eliminate agricultural greenhouse gas emissions in the US if established across high-quality cropland. The methods reduce synthetic fertilizer use and increase protein production while reducing beef consumption by 20%.
COVID-19: Seroprevalence and vaccine responses in UK dental care professionals
A study of UK dental care professionals found that natural infection alone is unlikely to generate meaningful, durable herd immunity, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations. The data also suggest that previous infection with SARS-CoV-2 leads to a faster and stronger immune response following vaccination.
SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJun 3, 2021
Salt marshes trap microplastics in their sediments, creating record of human plastic use
Researchers found that salt marsh sediments accumulate microplastics, with higher concentrations near urban areas and a non-linear relationship to urbanization. The study provides new insights into the impact of human plastic use on ecosystems.
The dream team: Scientists find drug duo that may cure COVID-19 together
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science found a promising treatment for COVID-19 using the drugs cepharanthine and nelfinavir, which show potential in suppressing SARS-CoV-2. Computational models predict combined therapy could hasten clearance of the virus from patients' lungs.
Jets from massive protostars might be very different from lower-mass systems
Astronomers observed a massive protostar called Cep A HW2, revealing two distinct features: a wide-angle wind near the star and a highly-collimated jet at a greater distance. The discovery raises questions about the formation mechanisms of stars across different mass spectrums.
Tick for insomnia treatment
Researchers developed new clinical guidelines for Australian doctors to treat insomnia with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia (CBTi), improving mental health and quality of life. CBTi can be more successful than sleeping pills in managing insomnia.
Lung ultrasound can efficiently diagnose volume overload in hemodialysis patients
Abbreviated lung ultrasound protocols show similar diagnostic sensitivity to 28-zone studies, suggesting they can efficiently diagnose volume overload. Researchers found no mortality differences between patients with mild and moderate-to-severe pulmonary congestion.
Coastal flooding increases Bay Area traffic delays and accidents
A Stanford University study found that coastal flooding in the Bay Area leads to significant travel time delays and an increase in vehicular accident rates, particularly in residential neighborhoods. The research highlights the importance of prioritizing road safety in climate adaptation planning.
Protect the sea, neglect the people? Social impact of marine conservation schemes revealed
A new study finds that marine conservation initiatives can have negative impacts on community livelihoods, including increased anxiety and social division. Researchers recommend that conservation efforts should follow social impact assessments and provide livelihood support for affected communities.
Aging impairs anti-tumor T-cell response via mitochondria dysfunction
Researchers found that aging decreases T-cell survival and function, while ceramide signaling weakens anti-tumor T-cells. Blocking certain ceramide molecules improves the anti-tumor function of aging T-cells.
Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine recipients have lower antibody levels targeting the Delta variant
The study found that vaccinated individuals have lower antibody levels targeting the Delta variant compared to previously circulating variants. Booster doses and second vaccinations are recommended to ensure high protection against new variants.
Underwater ancient cypress forest offers clues to the past
A preserved ancient bald cypress forest was discovered underwater in the northern Gulf of Mexico, providing clues about the region's climate history. The forest is estimated to be between 42,000 and 74,000 years old, offering insights into the rapid changes in sea levels and climate that occurred during the last Ice Age.
First cells reprogrammed to make synthetic polymers; also making them resistant to viruses
Researchers have developed cells that can construct artificial polymers from building blocks not found in nature, while also making them resistant to viral infections. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new polymers and more reliable manufacturing of certain drugs using bacteria.
Prior COVID-19 infection reduces infection risk for up to 10 months
Researchers found that prior COVID-19 infections reduced the risk of reinfection by 85% for care home residents and 60% for staff within a four-month period. The study, published in Lancet Healthy Longevity, used antibody testing to determine previous infection status.
NIH researchers identify potential new antiviral drug for COVID-19
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have identified a promising oral antiviral treatment for COVID-19. The experimental drug TEMPOL can inhibit viral replication by degrading iron-sulfur clusters required by the SARS-CoV-2 RNA replicase enzyme.
SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2021
Covid-19 pandemic led to increased screen time, more sleep problems
A study of 2,123 Italian residents found that increased evening screen time during the Covid-19 lockdown negatively affects sleep quality, with decreased sleep times and later bedtimes. In contrast, participants who reduced their screen time before bed showed improved sleep quality and fewer insomnia symptoms.
Fifty years of progress in women's health
Major points of progress in women's health since the 1970s include reproductive health advances, improvements in overall well-being throughout life, reduced mortality rates for cardiovascular and cancer diseases in women. Clinical research has improved understanding of conditions disproportionately affecting women, such as autoimmune d...
The DNA of three aurochs found next to the Elba shepherdess opens up a new enigma for palaeontology
Researchers from the University of A Coruña sequenced the oldest mitochondrial genome of modern cows' immediate ancestor, finding three aurochs with genetic differences. The ancient remains were discovered near a 9,000-year-old shepherdess, sparking debate about their relationship and domestication history.
Wearable accelerometer and vibrator 'thimble' could reduce falls amongst seniors
A wearable accelerometer and vibrator 'thimble' device has been developed to help reduce falls amongst seniors by enhancing their sense of balance. The device, similar to a thimble worn on the fingertips, delivers vibrotactile nudges to reduce postural sway in individuals with impaired balance.
Mason 4C receives funding for Medical Society Consortium On Climate & Health
Mason 4C has partnered with medical societies to address climate change through health initiatives. The consortium aims to improve public health and healthcare outcomes in vulnerable populations.
Immune therapy after surgery lowers relapse risk in patients with high-risk melanoma
A large clinical trial has shown that pembrolizumab after surgery significantly lowers the risk of disease recurrence in patients with high-risk melanoma. This treatment also results in fewer serious side effects compared to standard therapies like ipilimumab or high-dose interferon.
Scientists make powerful underwater glue inspired by barnacles and mussels
Researchers at Tufts University created a strong adhesive by mimicking the molecular bonding tricks used by sea creatures. The glue achieves 2.4 MPa of strength when resisting shear forces, outperforming most existing commercial adhesives.
Evidence for a previously unknown extinction event that decimated ocean shark species
A new study provides evidence for a previously unknown mass ocean extinction event that nearly wiped out shark species 19 million years ago. The study found that sharks declined in abundance by over 90% and in morphological diversity by more than 70% during this period.
Many COVID-19 patients produce immune responses against their body's tissues or organs
A University of Birmingham-led study found that many COVID-19 patients produce immune responses against their own tissues or organs, including skin, skeletal muscle, and cardiac antibodies. The study suggests that these autoantibodies may contribute to the long-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Looking for mussels? A dog just might be your best friend for that, too
Researchers are collaborating to evaluate detection canine technology and eDNA detection sensitivity for preventing invasive mussel invasion in Texas. Detection canines have shown great success in detecting mussels at all stages of life, but their limits for late-stage larval detection have not been studied.
Milk makeover: A great start for a healthy heart
A new study from the University of South Australia found that regular milk consumption is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. The research, which analyzed genetic biomarkers in over 400,000 people, suggests that milk's calcium content may contribute to improved cholesterol levels and reduced cardiovascular risk.
Decline in number of people receiving life-enhancing cardiac rehabilitation in pandemic
A study by University of Exeter researchers found a 40% decline in patients admitted with heart attacks and a 30-40% decrease in use of cardiology services during the pandemic. However, there has been an increase in home-based rehabilitation options, suggesting a need for more evidence-based programs to be rolled out.
Researchers discover potential new approach to treating psoriatic joint inflammation
A novel chemical blocker targeting chemokine proteins significantly reduces skin and joint inflammation in a mouse model with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The study identifies CCR6 as a critical agent for joint inflammation, making it an attractive target for arthritis therapy.
Which way does the solar wind blow?
Researchers developed new software for improved space weather prediction, leveraging supercomputers and advanced computing techniques to analyze magnetized solar wind plasma. This effort aims to enhance the accuracy of predictions for coronal mass ejections and their impact on Earth's magnetosphere.
Polar vortex, winter heat may change bird populations
Researchers found that individual bird species respond uniquely to extreme winter weather events, with some experiencing population changes after polar vortexes. Winter heat waves also led to increased bird abundance and occurrence in affected regions.
Researchers reveal the inner workings of a viral DNA-packaging motor
Scientists discovered the molecular motor that packages genetic material into double-stranded DNA viruses. The advance provides insight into a critical step in the reproduction cycle of viruses such as pox- herpes- and adeno-viruses, which could inspire researchers creating microscopic machines.
University study highlights alarming rise in usage and costs of antidepressants
A recent University of Huddersfield study has found a sharp increase in antidepressant prescriptions and costs in England during the COVID-19 pandemic. The total number of prescriptions grew by four million items, costing NHS England an additional £139 million.
Arctic sea ice thinning faster than expected
A new UCL study finds that Arctic sea ice in coastal regions is thinning at a rate of 70% to 100% faster than previously thought. The study uses a novel snow model and satellite radar observations to estimate the overall rate of decline of sea ice thickness in the Arctic, with implications for human activity in the region.
Stone Age raves to the beat of elk tooth rattles?
Researchers found that dancing with elk tooth ornaments creates similar wear marks on the teeth as those found in ancient Stone Age graves. The study used microanalysis to compare modern and ancient elk tooth wear marks, providing insight into the past's auditory experiences.
Obrusnikova honored
Associate Professor Iva Obrusnikova at the University of Delaware has been selected as an IFAPA Fellow for her outstanding work in adapted physical activity. She is a leading researcher on technology-based behavioral strategies and their impact on functional performance and health outcomes in adults with developmental disabilities.
Five million years of climate change preserved in one place
A 5-million-year-old sedimentary record at Charyn Canyon provides a rare insight into long-term land-climate feedback mechanisms. The analysis revealed increasing aridity over the past five million years, with short-term fluctuations influenced by westerly winds and the Siberian high-pressure system.
Study on heavy drinking in young adults and the psychological impacts of COVID-19
A novel study on young adults' heavy drinking during the pandemic reveals a reduction in problematic drinking among men and women. However, women showed significant increases in depression and anxiety symptoms compared to men.
Preclinical research reveals that new IgM antibodies administered intranasally to fight COVID-19 more potent than commonly used ones
A new engineered IgM antibody therapy has been found to be significantly more potent than standard IgG antibodies at neutralizing the COVID-19 virus in animal models. The therapy, IGM-6268, demonstrated increased potency against emerging variants of concern and variants of interest.
How quantum dots can 'talk' to each other
Researchers have successfully simulated the interaction of two quantum dots, exchanging energy controlled by light. The study's results are promising for experimental research and development in various fields, including qubit development and photocatalysis.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateJun 3, 2021
Genetic base editing treats sickle cell disease in mice
Researchers used base editing to convert a pathogenic hemoglobin gene to a benign variant, rescuing disease symptoms in animal models and enabling long-lasting production of healthy blood cells. The treatment successfully edited up to 80% of the mutated gene in human blood stem cells and maintained its effects in mice for 16 weeks.
Passing the acid test: New, low-pH system recycles more carbon into valuable products
Researchers developed an electrochemical system that converts a greater amount of CO2 into valuable products. The system utilizes captured carbon, water, and electricity to create high-value products like ethylene, with over 70% of CO2 being converted.
Are wind farms slowing each other down?
A recent study by Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon found that wind farms in the North Sea experience a significant slowing down of wind speeds when built close together, leading to reduced power output and economic consequences.
Filter membrane renders viruses harmless
A new water filter membrane made from natural raw materials has been developed to render viruses harmless. The membrane combines protein nanofibrils with iron oxyhydroxide nanoparticles to eliminate a wide range of water-borne viruses, including those causing gastrointestinal infections, with great efficiency.
Nanoscale sensors measure elusive water levels in leaves
Researchers at Cornell University developed a minimally invasive method to measure water potential in leaves using nanoscale sensors and fiber optics. This technology enables the study of basic plant biology, advances breeding more drought-resistant crops.
Mayo Clinic study provides clarity on use of anticoagulants in gastrointestinal cancers
The study found that rivaroxaban is safe for patients with luminal gastrointestinal cancer, while apixaban should be used cautiously due to higher bleeding risk. DOACs can also be used in non-luminal GI cancers like pancreatic and hepatobiliary cancers.
Quantum-optically integrated light cage on a chip
Researchers from several institutions have successfully integrated a novel on-chip hollow-core light cage into an alkali atom vapor cell, overcoming previous limitations. The device exhibits high-speed gas diffusion and long-term stability, enabling integration with other technology platforms.
SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJun 3, 2021
UNH research: Black bears may play important role in protecting gray fox
Researchers found that black bears provided a top-down buffering effect, helping to protect gray foxes from coyote competition for food and space. However, this 'bear shield' was only seasonal and disappeared during bear hibernation.
Puppies are born ready to communicate with people, study shows
Researchers found that puppies demonstrate human-like social skills from a young age, with a strong genetic component. They can reciprocate human social gaze and use information given by humans in social contexts, even before extensive experience with humans.
Secondary infections inflame the brain, worsening cognition in Alzheimer's disease
Researchers found that secondary infections trigger a heightened brain immune response, affecting memory and cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease. This over-response leads to knock-on effects on brain rhythms and cognition, similar to acute psychiatric disturbances like delirium.
North Atlantic right whales have gotten smaller since the 1980s
A study found that North Atlantic right whales are significantly shorter today than they were 30-40 years ago, with average length decline of 7%. The researchers suggest that severe entanglements in fishing gear may be the main cause of this decline.
Researchers design simulation tool to predict disease, pest spread
A computer simulation tool called PoPS predicts when and where pests and diseases will attack crops or forests, helping manage strategies and pesticide applications. The tool improves with data feedback from natural resource managers, enabling more accurate predictions of future spread.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 3, 2021