Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2021 - Page 347


Page 347 of 510

Designing healthy diets - with computer analysis

A new mathematical model developed by Chalmers University of Technology can predict how different bacteria interact and affect the intestinal microbiome. The model was tested on two clinical studies, one involving Swedish infants and another adults in Finland, showing high accuracy in predicting multiple variables.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021

Human land use wasn't always at nature's expense

A study combining global maps of population and land use with biodiversity data reveals effective environmental stewardship by Indigenous and traditional peoples. Human transformation of terrestrial nature has been long-standing, contradicting the assumption that development is inherently destructive.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021

Tiny chip-based device performs ultrafast modulation of X-rays

Researchers developed a new x-ray optics-on-a-chip device that can modulate X-rays at speeds up to 100 times faster than conventional devices. The tiny device, weighing just 3 micrograms, has the potential to capture fast chemical, material and biological processes.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateApr 20, 2021

The COVID-19 is a unique opportunity to move towards more sustainable and equitable society

The COVID-19 crisis has emphasized the need to adapt to global environmental changes, with researchers highlighting the importance of shifting societal priorities from economic growth to human well-being and environmental health. A sustainable transition requires a cohesive and inclusive society where people adhere to collective action...

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalSustainability Science·DateApr 20, 2021

Large clinical trial to study repurposed drugs to treat COVID-19 symptoms

A large randomized Phase 3 clinical trial will test existing prescription and over-the-counter medications for treating mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms. The ACTIV-6 trial aims to provide evidence-based treatment options for adult patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms, reducing the need for hospitalization.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateApr 20, 2021

Biologists discover a new type of placental structure in animals

Biologists have discovered a new type of placental structure in animals, specifically in the group Cyclostomata from the phylum Bryozoa. This unique structure, called coenocytes, is formed through nuclear multiplication and cytoplasmic growth, unlike traditional cell fusion in animals.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalBMC Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 20, 2021

Dartmouth startup wins funding for remote physical therapy monitoring system

A Dartmouth startup has received funding to create a remote-sensing resistance band exercise system that can monitor patient progress and guide healthcare providers in at-home rehabilitation programs. The device aims to bridge the gap between clinicians and patients, increasing compliance rates and reducing unnecessary interventions.

SourceThayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth·DateApr 20, 2021

Reliably detecting cocoa off-flavors

A team of scientists has identified key odorants responsible for musty and moldy-smoky cocoa flavors using a molecular sensory science concept. The research provides an objective method to assess fermented cocoa's sensory quality based on odorant concentrations, benefiting the food industry with reliable identification of off-flavors.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 20, 2021

Study highlights role of physical, mental health in cognitive impairment

A recent study suggests that preserving physical and mental health helps older adults experiencing cognitive impairment stave off declines in cognitive engagement. The researchers found that declines in physical and mental health were associated with more pronounced cognitive disengagement, particularly among participants with advanced...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEntropy·DateApr 20, 2021

Forensics puzzle cracked via fluid mechanical principles

Researchers from University of Illinois at Chicago and Iowa State University cracked a forensic puzzle by exploring the fluid physics involved in a 2009 murder case. They found that backward blood spatter droplets can be entrained within a turbulent vortex ring of muzzle gases, potentially leaving shooter clothing bloodstain-free.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 20, 2021

2D nanomaterial MXene: The perfect lubricant

Researchers from TU Wien and international partners discovered MXene's exceptional properties as an ultra-durable dry lubricant, reducing friction to one sixth and withstanding 100,000 movement cycles without issues. Its heat resistance and independence from atmosphere and temperature make it suitable for various industrial applications.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 20, 2021

Our attention is captured by eye-glance

Researchers found that eye contact causes a distortion in temporal perception, making time seem shorter than it really is. In contrast, deviated gazes do not impact time perception.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCognition·DateApr 20, 2021

Gold digger: Neural networks at the nexus of data science and electron microscopy

Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience used machine learning to develop Gold Digger software that can accurately identify gold particles bound to specific proteins of interest. The software uses a deep learning approach to distinguish gold particles from shadow artifacts with near-human level accuracy.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 20, 2021

Probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus shows promise for treating inflammatory bowel disease and other intestinal inflammation disorders

Researchers found that probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus strain LA1 generates a rapid and sustained enhancement of the intestinal barrier, effectively treating intestinal inflammation. The study also showed that LA1 can prevent colonic inflammation formation and promote healing in mice with induced colitis.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 20, 2021

Flushing a public toilet? Don't linger, because aerosolized droplets do

Researchers discovered that aerosolized droplets generated by flushing a toilet and urinal in public restrooms pose a significant risk of transmitting COVID-19. The study found that these small droplets can remain suspended for hours, contaminating the air and increasing the risk of infection.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 20, 2021

Was Cascadia's 1700 earthquake part of a sequence of earthquakes?

Researchers suggest that the 1700 Cascadia earthquake could be part of a longer-lived sequence of earthquakes, potentially spanning many decades. This hypothesis has significant implications for how earthquake hazard maps are created for the region, and may help explain why there is little geologic evidence of the event in some areas.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 20, 2021

How lessons from past emergencies could improve the pandemic response

A new study suggests that lessons learned from past emergencies, such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, can inform improvements to the government's response to pandemics. By adopting a more centralized approach to procurement and communication, governments can achieve goals faster and more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Emergency Management·DateApr 20, 2021

Specialized technique captures unique protein structures in neuropathy disorders

Researchers have developed a specialized technique to capture unique protein structures associated with neuropathy disorders, such as Charcot Marie Tooth and Dejerine-Sottas syndrome. The technique, ion mobility-mass spectrometry (IM-MS), reveals that an unstable mutant version of the PMP22 protein forms a stable complex called a dimer.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021

Research brief: Improving drug efficacy against prostate cancer and related bone growths

Researchers developed a system to deliver nucleotide-based drugs more effectively into primary tumor tissue and bone metastases, improving their clinical efficacy. The study found that iRGD-liposomes significantly enhanced the ability of antisense oligonucleotides to inhibit prostate cancer growth and prolong tumor suppression.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 20, 2021

Study finds organic crystals that can trap nitrous oxide, a toxic greenhouse gas

Scientists have discovered a novel approach to separate and capture nitrous oxide, a harmful greenhouse gas, using hydroquinone clathrate. The study reveals that the organic crystal can trap N2O at high concentrations, making it a promising option for reducing emissions and saving energy.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 2021

Examining clinician burnout

Researchers investigated the association of clinician burnout with clinician type, sex, work culture and use of electronic health records. The study found that burnout is more prevalent among certain types of clinicians and in work cultures with heavy reliance on technology.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 20, 2021

The British variant is 45% more contagious than the original virus

A new study at Tel Aviv University found that the British variant (B.1.1.7) of Covid-19 is 45% more contagious than the original virus, with rapid spread and significant impact on vulnerable populations. Constant monitoring of at-risk populations and vaccination can prevent illness and mortality.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateApr 20, 2021

How the language you speak aligns to your genetic origins and may impact research on your health

A recent study has found that South-Eastern Bantu-speaking groups are genetically diverse, with distinct languages and histories, and cannot be treated as a single entity in disease research. This discovery may lead to more accurate genetic analysis and better understanding of complex diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2021

URI oceanographers reveal links between migrating Gulf Stream and warming ocean waters

A recent study by URI researchers shows that the Gulf Stream's position relative to the Grand Banks of Newfoundland can predict rapid warming of the Northwest Atlantic Shelf. The team used satellite data to observe the mechanism behind these changes, which block the southwestward transport of cold water and lead to marine heat waves.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateApr 20, 2021

'Information theory' recruited to help scientists find cancer genes

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine used information theory to identify a likely key genetic culprit in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common form of childhood leukemia. By analyzing DNA methylation patterns, they discovered a gene called UHRF1 that drives the development of cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 20, 2021

Back pain shows association with increased mortality risk in women

A new study from Boston Medical Center reveals a significant association between back pain and elevated mortality risk in women. Mild back pain is unlikely to impact life expectancy, but more severe cases are linked to an increased risk of mortality.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 20, 2021

Large numbers of regular drug users report increased substance use during COVID-19

A new CAMH survey found that nearly half of regular drug users reported increased substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many citing difficulty accessing safe supply programs. The study highlights the need for improved supports and services to mitigate risks associated with substance use.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateApr 20, 2021

"Molecular Tomographer" algorithm maps gene expression in space

The Tomographer algorithm transforms gene-sequencing data into spatially resolved images, mapping gene expression patterns across tissues. By analyzing tissue strips and mRNA measurements, the algorithm reconstructs spatial gene-expression patterns in tissues like the brain of the Australian Bearded Dragon.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 20, 2021

Defensive symbiosis leads to gene loss in bacterial partners

Researchers studying the symbiotic bacteria of beewolves found signs of genome erosion and metabolic streamlining for antibiotic production. The bacteria's genome is being reduced as it focuses on its defensive symbiosis with the host insects, suggesting an adaptation to their mutual benefit.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

People have shaped Earth's ecology for at least 12,000 years, mostly sustainably

A new study reveals that most areas depicted as 'untouched' were actually inhabited and used by human societies for thousands of years, sustaining native biodiversity. The research supports empowering Indigenous peoples and local communities to promote long-term environmental stewardship and conservation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Mellon grant boosts collaborative projects for equity, social justice

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation has approved a $1.2 million grant to extend the AUH interdisciplinary seminar series at Cornell University for three years, focusing on social justice and equity in the built environment. The new funding will support two projects: Design Justice Workshop and Urban Justice series.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 19, 2021

What does the study of domesticated birds tell us about the evolution of human language?

Research suggests that tolerance, cooperation, and reduced aggression in domesticated birds are linked to increased language complexity in humans. The study analyzed genomic, neurobiological differences between domesticated Bengalese finch and its wild relative, finding altered stress hormone balance and brain connectivity patterns.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Airbnb hosts in college towns hike up prices game days to deter rival fans

A new study by the University of California San Diego found that Airbnb hosts in college towns increase their listing prices during home football games against rival teams, resulting in a 78% reduction in rental income. This phenomenon is attributed to strong emotions involved in college football rivalries and financial constraints.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalReal Estate Economics·DateApr 19, 2021

Tiny implantable tool for light-sheet imaging of brain activity

Researchers developed a miniature light-sheet generator that can be implanted into a living animal's brain, enabling high-speed and high-contrast imaging of brain activity. The technology uses nanophotonic technology to create ultrathin silicon-based photonic neural probes that emit multiple addressable thin sheets of light.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateApr 19, 2021

Water muting with THz optoacoustics: A breakthrough for biomedical applications

Researchers have developed a novel method to detect and manipulate the terahertz optoacoustic signal of water, enabling sensitive detection of solutes like ions with an order of magnitude greater sensitivity than traditional spectroscopy. This breakthrough allows for nondestructive analysis of aqueous solutions and tissues, opening up ...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateApr 19, 2021

Clemson researchers find snake venom complexity is driven by prey diet

Researchers found that the evolutionary distance between a snake's prey species determines venom complexity, not just diet variety. The study uses next-generation sequencing to generate the largest dataset of viperid snakes' proteomes and venom-gland transcriptomes.

SourceClemson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Online farmers' markets valuable when crisis events like COVID occur

A recent study found that online farmers' markets can play a crucial role in maintaining community connections and supporting sustainable food systems. The Yellowknife Farmers Market's transition to an online market during the pandemic showcased its ability to adapt while prioritizing local businesses and social connections.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNutrition Journal·DateApr 19, 2021

Gender-affirming hormone therapy may increase risk of high blood pressure

A new study found that gender-affirming hormone therapy was associated with changes in blood pressure among transgender men and women. Researchers monitored 470 patients who began hormone therapy between 2007 and 2015, and found that some experienced different blood pressure effects compared to their peers.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateApr 19, 2021

Paternal drinking before pregnancy, risk of birth defects

A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics examined the association between paternal drinking before pregnancy and the risk of birth defects in Chinese children. The research found a significant correlation, suggesting that fathers' consumption of alcohol prior to conception may pose a potential threat to fetal development.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 19, 2021

New algorithm uses online learning for massive cell data sets

A new algorithm developed by Joshua Welch and his team enables researchers to analyze large datasets using standard computer memory, greatly speeding up single-cell sequencing research. The technique allows for real-time analysis of millions of cells without reprocessing older data.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 19, 2021

Who is selling and trafficking Africa's wild meat?

A new study classifies different types of wildlife traffickers and sellers in Brazzaville and Pointe Noire, Republic of Congo. The findings help conservation and law enforcement authorities prioritize efforts on professional criminals and identify patterns among repeat offenders.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateApr 19, 2021

New COVID-19 vaccine may offer broad protection from coronaviruses

Scientists have developed a new COVID-19 vaccine that targets the spike protein of the virus, offering broad protection against existing and future strains. The vaccine's innovative approach uses a platform that can produce vaccines at very low cost, making it ideal for global vaccination efforts.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021