Where are the women on the Spanish-language Wikipedia site?
Only 7.4% of active profiles and 11.6% of known profiles are women, highlighting a gender bias in the community. Women also have lower retention rates and tend to edit non-article pages.
Science News Archive 2021 - Page 348
Browse by Month - 2021
Page 348 of 510
Mirror, mirror...viewing your own face, even subconsciously, is rewarding
Researchers from Osaka University discovered that subconscious viewing of one's own face can activate the dopamine reward pathway in the brain. This finding provides new insights into how the brain processes self-facial recognition and suggests that the dopamine reward pathway plays a key role in this process.
Science and need -- not wealth or nationality -- should guide vaccine allocation and prioritization
A recent study emphasizes the importance of science and need in guiding COVID-19 vaccine allocation and prioritization. The authors argue that legal status should have no place in decisions about vaccine access and that poorer countries may not be able to widely vaccinate their populations until 2023.
Epidural use at birth not linked to autism risk, study finds
A study published by Stanford Medicine has found no link between epidural use during childbirth and an increased risk of autism in children. The research controlled for various socioeconomic, medical, and family factors, including genetic influences, to reach this conclusion.
Earth's biggest mass extinction took ten times longer on land than in the water
Scientists have found that the Earth's largest mass extinction event took place on land, occurring over a period of millions of years. Researchers analyzed fossil data from four-legged animals in what is now South Africa and discovered that life on land underwent a longer period of extinctions compared to the oceans.
Evidence for glaciation predating MIS-6 in the eastern Nyainqêntanglha, southeastern Tibet
Researchers found glacial deposits in the Bodui Zangbo River valley that date back to before MIS-6. The age of these deposits suggests a glacial advance occurred during MIS-12, likely due to surface uplift and decreased temperatures.
Pandemic led to profound changes in multiple sclerosis clinical practice
A national survey of US multiple sclerosis specialist clinicians reveals the pandemic has changed how they deliver care, with fewer immunosuppressive agents prescribed and a shift towards telehealth platforms. Nearly 10% of respondents reported being redeployed to COVID-19 patient care.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders·DateApr 19, 2021
Opioid vaccine in the works
Researchers are developing an opioid vaccine that targets fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, to reduce respiratory depression. The vaccine stimulates the body to create powerful antibodies that bind to opioid molecules, preventing them from reaching the brain and reducing overdose risk.
Russian scientists discover a new gene regulation mechanism
Researchers from Skoltech identified the role of distant RNA regions in regulating gene expression, revealing their impact on splicing and gene regulation.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 19, 2021
Patients who are obese or overweight are at risk for a more severe course of COVID-19
International research found that obese and overweight COVID-19 patients require more oxygen and invasive ventilation, but show no increased risk of death. Chronic inflammation and shortness of breath are linked to increased severity in these patients.
Robotic infrastructure elements proposed to bolster performance of infectious hospitals
A multidisciplinary team from Kazan Federal University proposes a novel holistic architecture for an infectious disease hospital that employs robotic tools. The framework preserves classical organizational structure while assigning practical applicability to robots, helping to develop efficient and safe operations.
COVID-19 News from Annals of Internal Medicine
A liver transplant recipient was reinfected with SARS-CoV-2 111 days after initial diagnosis, using genomic sequencing to distinguish relapse from reinfection. Additionally, a study found people of color have substantially higher risks for hospitalization and intensive-level care for COVID-19 compared to White persons
Army researchers create pioneering approach to real-time conversational AI
Researchers create an approach to flexibly interpret and respond to Soldier intent derived from spoken dialogue with autonomous systems. The technology enables bi-directional conversational interactions between Soldiers and autonomous systems, allowing for hands-free operation to improve situational awareness.
Mayo researchers, collaborators identify 'instigator' gene associated with Alzheimer's disease
Researchers analyzed tissue samples from 385 brains with Alzheimer's disease, identifying the SERPINA5 gene as strongly associated with tau protein tangle progression. The study aimed to clarify the relevance of gene expression changes in Alzheimer's disease and provide new targets for treatment.
After 40 years, new fish species in named by students on Guam
Three new snailfish species, Paraliparis echongpachot, P. kadadakaleguak, and P. marianae, have been named after student suggestions in the Chamorro language. The specimens were collected in the 1980s but not examined until recently, when they were analyzed by Oregon State University alums Bruce Mundy and David Stein.
Researchers find a way to mend a broken heart
A Monash University study has discovered a way to prevent and reverse the damage caused by broken-heart syndrome, also known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The breakthrough uses Suberanilohydroxamic acid to target genes and improve cardiac health.
Learning about system stability from ants
A new type of collective behaviour in ants has been revealed by an international team of scientists. The ants use scaffolds to ensure traffic flow on sloped surfaces, resulting from individual sensing and decision-making without group-level communication. This simple yet effective mechanism may inspire designs for artificial systems.
SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
How body mass index changes across lifespan and generations
Changes in BMI vary by sociodemographic group across lifespan and generations, highlighting racial and educational disparities. The study analyzed data from four national longitudinal surveys to understand the magnitude of future disease burden.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
Disrupted sleep is linked to increased risk of death, particularly in women
A recent study published in the European Heart Journal has found a clear link between disrupted sleep and an increased risk of dying from diseases of the heart and blood vessels, as well as death from any cause. Women were found to have nearly double the risk of cardiovascular death compared to men.
DNA robots designed in minutes instead of days
Researchers at Ohio State University developed a new software tool called MagicDNA that can design more complex DNA robots and nanodevices in a fraction of the time. The software allows for 3D design and simulation, enabling fine control over individual component properties and increasing the complexity of overall geometry.
Understanding interfaces of hybrid materials with machine learning
Researchers from TU Graz and FSU Jena discovered three opposing driving forces controlling the self-assembly of functionalized molecules at interfaces. A design principle using machine learning was established to predict structures and properties. This breakthrough enables the easy assembly of desired interfacial properties on demand.
B cell activating factor possible key to hemophilia immune tolerance
A study by Indiana University School of Medicine researchers has found that B cell activating factor (BAFF) plays a role in the generation and maintenance of inhibitors in hemophilia A patients. Blocking BAFF with a combination therapy may induce tolerance in these patients, offering a potential solution to treatment failure.
SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 19, 2021
Can cirrhosis of the liver be treated with faeces transplantation?
Researchers from Aarhus University are conducting a treatment trial using faeces-microbiome transplantation to improve cirrhosis outcomes and lower mortality rates. The project replaces patients' sick intestinal bacteria with those from healthy donors, aiming to alleviate complications and disease progression.
Sustainable chemical synthesis with platinum
Researchers have created a new catalyst that allows for more efficient and sustainable production of aromatic hydrocarbons using renewable sources like woody biomass. The catalyst reduces the need for high temperatures and pressures, minimizing energy costs and emissions.
Researchers drill down to the core of wellbeing worldwide
A meta-analysis of 400+ clinical trials involving over 50,000 participants found that mindfulness, positive psychological interventions, and cognitive behavioural therapy can increase wellbeing across different groups. Consistent and prolonged practice is crucial for these interventions to be effective in improving wellbeing.
GPS data reveal possible earthquake, tsunami hazard in northwestern colombia
A shallow locked region south of Cartagena city suggests significant earthquake and tsunami hazard, with a magnitude 8.0 earthquake capable of occurring every 600 years. Researchers urge continued densification of the GPS network to better understand and evaluate this hazard potential.
Research inside hill slopes could help wildfire and drought prediction
A new study found that rock weathering and water storage follow similar patterns across hill slopes, improving wildfire and landslide risk predictions. The findings also suggest that computer models can use this scaling trend to model weathering in undulating terrain.
Land use legacy affects ecosystem restoration
A study found that land use legacies, such as agriculture and forestry, can have lasting impacts on ecosystems, with only limited effects from restoration efforts. The researchers discovered that soil compaction, a common issue caused by agricultural use, was difficult to mitigate through restoration alone.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
Study shows education is not enough to overcome inequality
A recent study by North Carolina State University found that education alone cannot overcome social inequality, particularly among men. The research examined data from over 56,000 individuals and found that a parent's social status continues to provide an advantage to their children in terms of earnings.
Microglia, Stockholm syndrome and miraculous cures in glioblastoma patients
Researchers at the University of Minnesota identified a new drug target for glioblastoma patients who defy conventional wisdom by surviving beyond expectations. Glioblastoma cells subvert immune system cells called microglia and macrophages, leading to tumor growth.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
Intellectual disability is rarely inherited -- risk for younger siblings is low
A recent study conducted at the University of Helsinki found that the risk of intellectual disability in younger siblings is low. The study utilized exome sequencing to determine the genetic background of developmental disorders and identified 9 new candidate genes, including 1 potentially novel gene enriched in the Finnish population.
Defects in a specific cell type may cause ulcerative colitis
A new study from the University of Gothenburg suggests that defective goblet cells may contribute to ulcerative colitis by damaging the mucus protection layer. The research team identified specific types of goblet cells and found that their premature rejection leads to inflammation and increased cancer risk.
Without major changes, gender parity in orthopaedic surgery will take two centuries
A recent study found that it will take over 200 years for women to reach parity in orthopaedic surgery, highlighting the need for substantial changes across education and leadership levels. The research emphasizes the importance of increasing representation of women in medical schools, residency programs, and subspecialty societies.
Stone Age black bears didn't just defecate in the woods - they did it in a cave too
Researchers from the Lundbeck Foundation GeoGenetics Centre have sequenced ancient DNA from soil for the first time, transforming the field of population genetics. The advance allows scientists to study the evolution of animals, plants, and microorganisms, with potential applications in climate change research.
Snake venom complexity is driven by prey diet
Research reveals that pitviper species consuming more evolutionarily diverse prey produce more complex venom. The study found that the evolutionary distance between consumed prey species affects venom complexity, suggesting subtle differences in venom targets.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
Bone microenvironment fosters breast cancer metastatic behavior
Two studies found that the bone microenvironment reduces ER expression in breast cancer cells, leading to resistance to endocrine therapy. The bone microenvironment also triggers reprogramming of cancer cells, promoting their ability to metastasize to other tissues and evade treatment.
Light up your mind: A novel light-based treatment for neurodegenerative diseases
Researchers summarize growing knowledge on light therapy's mechanism, effectiveness, and applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Light stimulation has been shown to restore memory and cognition, improve sleep quality, and reduce symptoms in patients with these conditions.
To forget or to do not forget?
Researchers discovered a new molecule, K162, that inhibits beta-amyloid toxicity and protects neurons from damage. The study provides hope for alternative therapeutic strategies against Alzheimer's disease.
SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateApr 19, 2021
Archaeological data demand new approaches to biodiversity conservation
A multi-disciplinary team has reconstructed ancient population and land use, showing that humans shaped much of the terrestrial biosphere by 12,000 years ago. The study found a close correlation between areas of high biodiversity and areas long occupied by Indigenous peoples.
SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
Adherence to CMS SEP-1 measures found to have variable effects on patient outcomes
A longitudinal study found that adherence to the Medicare Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock Early Management Bundle (SEP-1) had variable effects on sepsis treatment and patient outcomes. Researchers suggest that clinicians may have discretion in applying SEP-1 components to focus on aspects of care driving improvements in patient outcomes.
3D deep neural network precisely reconstructs freely-behaving animal's movements
Researchers developed DANNCE, a 3D deep-neural network that can capture behavior and track movement in freely behaving animals from single video cameras. The tool has broad impact on animal behavioral studies, enabling standardized definitions of behaviors and tracing emergence of behavior over time.
SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 19, 2021
New pulsed magnet reveals a new state of matter in Kondo insulator
Researchers have discovered an exotic new state of matter in the Kondo insulator ytterbium dodecaboride, which exhibits properties of both metals and insulators. The study used a newly developed 75-tesla duplex magnet to suppress insulating properties and measure quantum oscillations.
More than 60 years to achieve gender equity?
The astronomy industry has a long way to go before achieving gender parity, with women making up less than one-third of professional astronomers by 2080. Implementing 50:50 hiring ratios and retention initiatives, such as exit surveys and work-life balance improvements, can help reach the goal of 30% female representation in a decade.
SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 19, 2021
Anthropogenic transformation of terrestrial nature
A study found that human populations transformed wildlands into human biomes as early as 12,000 years ago, with 75% of the Earth's biosphere inhabited by humans. Anthropogenic land use reshaped more than 80% of the terrestrial biosphere by 2017 CE.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
SMART breakthrough to enhance travel behavior research with artificial neural networks
A new synthetic framework, TB-ResNet, combines discrete choice models and deep neural networks to improve individual decision-making analysis in travel behavior research. The framework has been proven to be highly predictive, interpretable, and robust.
SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalTransportation Research Part B Methodological·DateApr 19, 2021
End-Permian extinction patterns in South Africa
A study analyzing 588 fossil land vertebrate specimens from the Karoo Basin, South Africa, found high extinction rates initially co-occurred with low origination rates. The ancient mammal relative Lystrosaurus experienced population peaks both before and after the end-Permian extinction event.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
Leg muscle action assists blood flow independently of age
A recent study by Kanazawa University researchers found that leg muscle action can improve blood flow independently of age. The study used MRI imaging to measure changes in blood flow and pump action in the legs of healthy volunteers aged 24, 47, and 72 years.
Omega-3 supplements do double duty in protecting against stress
Researchers found that high-dose omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation suppressed damage and boosted protection during and after stressful events. This led to sustained anti-inflammatory activity and preserved telomere length in healthy but sedentary, overweight, and middle-aged individuals.
Bad to the bone: Hebrew University reveals impact of junk food on kids' skeletal development
A Hebrew University study found that ultra-processed foods negatively impact children's skeletal development, leading to reduced bone quality and growth. The research surveyed lab rodents who consumed junk food, showing growth retardation and impaired bone development.
Two blood thinners at once: More risk with the same reward
A new study found that nearly one-third of patients prescribed a direct oral anticoagulant were also taking aspirin without a clear reason, leading to an increased risk of bleeding events. The researchers emphasize the importance of consulting with doctors to determine if combination therapy is necessary for individual patients.
Investigating epidural labor pain relief, offspring risk of autism spectrum disorders
A population-based study of Canadian children found no link between epidural pain relief during labor and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders. The study analyzed multiple databases and concluded that epidural use did not increase the likelihood of autism.
Stanford researchers use AI to empower environmental regulators
A new Stanford University-led study uses AI and satellite imagery to locate and monitor hard-to-regulate industries, such as brick kilns in Bangladesh. The approach reveals that over three-fourths of kilns are illegally constructed near schools, and the government under-reports kilns with respect to regulations.
Study reveals the workings of nature's own earthquake blocker
Researchers found a naturally occurring 'earthquake gate' on New Zealand's Alpine Fault that decides which earthquakes grow into magnitude 8 or greater. The study suggests this gate could change the stress and break larger earthquake chains.
Shedding light on the long and the short of plant growth
Researchers at John Innes Centre discovered two genes, ATH1 and DELLA, controlling plant compactness and elongation. These findings may lead to more precise ways to modify crop shape and height in agriculture.
Scientists identify protein that could serve as a therapeutic target in lung cancer
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have identified a protein called PLK3 that operates with mutated p53 genes to spur lung cancer growth. Inhibiting PLK3 has been shown to reduce tumor cell formation and proliferation in preclinical models of lung cancer.
SARS-CoV-2 variants from mink evade inhibition by antibodies
Researchers have found that SARS-CoV-2 variants from minks can evade inhibition by COVID-19 antibodies, reducing immune control. The study showed that the Y453F mutation in the spike protein reduces the effectiveness of both therapeutic and human-made antibodies.
Beetles that pee themselves to death could be tomorrow's pest control
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a better way to target and eliminate beetles using eco-friendly methods. The study found that beetles regulate their kidney function in a unique way, which can be exploited to disrupt their fluid balance without harming other insects.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
NYU Abu Dhabi researchers develop Micro-Fluidic Probe to isolate cancer spreading cells
The Herringbone Microfluidic Probe (HB-MFP) effectively isolates Circulating Tumor Cells from blood samples, providing insights into cancer metastasis. Researchers believe this technology has great promise for diagnosing and prognosticating prostate cancer using liquid biopsies.
Penn study finds reassuring data on common heart valve procedure, MitraClip
A retrospective study suggests that MitraClip reduces death and heart failure hospitalizations by up to 50% for patients with secondary MR, even with slightly smaller mitral valve openings. The study also found improvements in quality of life measures in some patients with higher gradients.
How wind shapes genetic diversity in trees
A study found that wind patterns strongly affect genetic differentiation, gene flow, and genetic diversity in tree populations. Downwind populations tend to exhibit high genetic diversity.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021