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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 22


Page 22 of 45

Researchers develop algorithm to find possible misdiagnosis

A new algorithm developed by researchers at the University of Copenhagen can detect unusual disease trajectories in COPD patients that may indicate a different diagnosis, such as lung cancer. The algorithm was trained on data from 284,000 patients and identified approximately 69,000 typical disease trajectories.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateFeb 15, 2021

More privacy when using WhatsApp, Signal and Co.

Researchers at Graz University of Technology develop a new method of contact discovery that significantly limits privacy threats, using intersection calculations and encryption protocols. The ContactGuard application stores encrypted address book entries on the mobile phone, preventing service providers from accessing sensitive data.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateFeb 15, 2021

The impact of COVID-19 on motherhood

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought additional challenges for pregnant people, new mothers, and their families. A new study found that those who gave birth during the pandemic experienced higher levels of psychological trauma, stress, and isolation due to confusion about hospital protocols and visitor restrictions. The lack of social sup...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalFrontiers in Sociology·DateFeb 15, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Kagome graphene promises exciting properties

Physicists have produced kagome graphene, a carbon-nitrogen compound with unusual electrical properties, including semiconducting behavior that can be switched on and off. The material's unique structure and strong electron interactions could lead to the development of sustainable electronic components.

SourceSwiss Nanoscience Institute, University of Basel·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 15, 2021

New insight into antibody-induced protective immunity to COVID-19

Researchers found that high levels of antibodies against a specific part of the virus may be key to understanding immune response to COVID-19. Individuals with stronger antibody responses showed immune functions associated with natural protection, offering a promising avenue for vaccine development and effective global rollout.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 15, 2021

Planktivores and diversity patterns in coral reefs

Researchers found significant distribution disparities in coral reef fish species across trophic groups, with a disproportionate number of planktivores in the IAA. Planktivore species richness was highest near Indonesia and the Solomon Islands, but declined sharply outside the region.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Method for temporal monitoring of microplastic sedimentation

Microplastics have been found in nearly all organisms and habitats worldwide, but the factors contributing to their influx and accumulation in water ecosystems are not yet fully understood. A new study developed a sediment trap method to analyze annual accumulation rates and possible seasonal variation, finding that microplastic flux r...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateFeb 15, 2021

Existing heart failure drug may treat potential COVID-19 long-hauler symptom

Researchers found that ivabradine, a heart failure medication, reduces heart rate and improves symptoms associated with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in patients with POTS. The study suggests that ivabradine may be an effective treatment option for COVID-19 long-haulers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 15, 2021

Study finds alligator hearts keep beating no matter what

A new study has revealed that alligator hearts are able to maintain a normal rhythm despite extreme temperature changes, unlike mammals which can fibrillate under stress. This unique adaptation comes at the cost of reduced maximum heart rate and increased vulnerability to cardiac arrhythmia.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalIntegrative Organismal Biology·DateFeb 15, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Exercise now proven to have mental health benefits for prostate cancer

New research from Edith Cowan University found that exercise helps men with prostate cancer reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, regardless of the type or intensity of exercise. The study suggests that supervised exercise is more beneficial than unsupervised exercise in reducing psychological distress.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalProstate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases·DateFeb 15, 2021

Climate change forces rethinking of conservation biology planning

A new study finds that current protected areas may not be enough to protect biodiversity in a changing climate. Countries have not fully harnessed the potential of protected areas to adapt to climate change, and instead need to identify lands with high levels of biodiversity in areas where climate is changing slowly.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 15, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Cloud simulations get a dose of realism

A new cloud simulation model developed by KAUST researchers captures atmospheric conditions and thermodynamic processes, allowing for more realistic simulation of cloud formation. The model can simulate various cloud types, including cumulonimbus clouds and supercell thunderstorms, with high accuracy.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateFeb 15, 2021

First humans in Tasmania must have seen spectacular auroras

A 270,000-year-old core from a Tasmanian lake provides the first Australian record of a geomagnetic excursion, where the Earth's magnetic field 'switched' and spectacular auroras were observed. This discovery has significant implications for understanding past climate change and developing new paleomagnetic dating tools.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalQuaternary International·DateFeb 15, 2021

Researchers discover promising biomarkers to diagnose mild traumatic brain injury

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland has identified two potential biomarkers, miR-9a-3p and miR-136-3p, which could serve as diagnostic biomarkers for mild traumatic brain injury. These microRNAs were found to be elevated in both animal models and human patients, suggesting their potential use in diagnosing the condition....

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021

Spanish scientists uncover early links between cardiovascular risk and brain metabolism

Researchers found a link between elevated cardiovascular risk and low brain metabolism in middle-aged individuals, with hypertension being the most closely associated factor. Atherosclerosis was also linked to lower brain metabolism, particularly in areas implicated in Alzheimer's disease.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 15, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Choosing fillers for police lineups

A study of 19,732 participants found that using fillers dissimilar to the suspect increased correct identification without wrongly identifying innocents. This method may improve lineup accuracy and reduce wrongful convictions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021

New physics rules tested on quantum computer

A team of researchers used a quantum computer to explore non-Hermitian quantum mechanics and demonstrated experimental results that are forbidden by regular Hermitian quantum theory. They also showed that entanglement can be altered in a way that is not possible under regular quantum physics.

SourceAalto University·JournalCommunications Physics·DateFeb 15, 2021

New microscopy analysis allows discovery of central adhesion complex

Researchers developed a new method to visualize and quantify molecular processes in cells, revealing a ternary adhesion complex essential for cell attachment. The study provides insights into how individual proteins assemble and co-organize to form functional units.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 15, 2021

The comet that killed the dinosaurs

A new study by Harvard researchers suggests that a comet originating from the Oort cloud was bumped off-course by Jupiter's gravitational field, increasing the rate of impacts on Earth. The theory provides a satisfactory explanation for the origin and composition of Chicxulub impactor, potentially shedding light on other similar craters.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 15, 2021

New study of goals and beliefs during COVID-19 lockdown shows people still care

A new study found that despite the life-altering disruption caused by COVID-19, many people continued to care deeply about pursuing their goals. Those who did exhibited creative strategies to overcome restrictions and uncertain times. The study provides valuable insights into how people coped psychologically during the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Chichester·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 15, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Peeking at the pathfinding strategies of the hippocampus in the brain

Researchers at KIST Brain Science Institute and NYU discovered that hippocampus uses distinct information processing mechanisms to encode spatial information, including rate code and phase code. This understanding can improve diagnosis and treatment of brain disorders like Alzheimer's and amnesia, as well as inspire AI advancements.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 15, 2021

Quantum leaps in understanding how living corals survive

Researchers used non-invasive microscopy to study coral-algal symbiosis, tracking changes in algal concentrations and biomolecules under varying environmental conditions. Shallow water corals produce more algae to compensate for reduced sunlight, while deeper waters rely on algal partners for photosynthesis.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 15, 2021

Oncotarget: Cancer stem cells and macrophages against cancer

This review article highlights the complex crosstalk between cancer stem cells (CSCs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), two key players in cancer progression. CSCs have been identified as the drivers of cancer initiation and progression, while TAMs create a protective microenvironment for CSC development and dissemination.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateFeb 15, 2021

Challenge to anorexia nervosa treatment guidelines

A new analysis published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that current psychological therapies for treating anorexia nervosa do not significantly differ from expert treatment as usual. This highlights the need for further research into more targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateFeb 15, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

New hope for treating chronic pain without opioids

A new study from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry confirms that low-dose naltrexone is a good option for patients with orofacial and chronic pain, reducing pain intensity and improving quality of life. Low-dose naltrexone works by targeting sensitized nervous cells to reduce pain threshold and sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateFeb 15, 2021

Researchers measure temperature effect of plasmon in chemical reactions using organic "sensors"

Scientists have developed a method to estimate the temperature of chemical reactions activated by plasmons, revealing that properties of plasmons depend on thermal effects and other factors. The study used organic molecules as ultra-small sensors, showing different temperatures for two molecules triggered by plasmon energy.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalChemical Science·DateFeb 15, 2021

Unlocking the mystery behind skeletal aging

Scientists identify critical enzyme KDM4B as key factor in skeletal aging and bone loss, leading to brittle bones and fractures. The study provides promising insights into the development of strategies to reverse bone-fat imbalance and prevent osteoporosis.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 15, 2021

Child brain tumors can be classified by advanced imaging and AI

A UK-based study using diffusion weighted imaging and machine learning successfully classified common types of pediatric brain tumors, enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis. This non-invasive method has the potential to treat childhood brain tumors more efficiently with favorable outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 15, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Almost half of virus sufferers report depression

A new study reveals nearly half of coronavirus patients experience symptoms of depression, particularly those with persistent symptoms and low family income. Researchers emphasize the need for improved mental health services in light of the pandemic's disruption to these vital resources.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 15, 2021

Counterintuitive approach may improve eyewitness identification

Researchers found that selecting fillers who are facially dissimilar to the suspect enhances eyewitness ability to accurately identify the perpetrator, while protecting innocent suspects. The counterintuitive technique improves outcomes without affecting the number of false alarms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021

Commuters are inhaling unacceptably high levels of carcinogens

A new study by UC Riverside found that California's commuters inhale unacceptably high levels of carcinogenic chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde. Prolonged commutes over 20 minutes increase the risk of disease, including cancer and birth defects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironment International·DateFeb 15, 2021

Cost of human-wildlife interactions

A study in India found that human fatalities from wildlife conflict result in much higher damages than crop and livestock losses, highlighting the need to focus on reducing negative interactions with high-risk species. The researchers estimated that farmers in conflict with elephants suffer up to 900 times higher damages.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Avian insights into human ciliopathies

Researchers have discovered that abnormal skeletal differentiation and remodelling are key causes of ciliopathic micrognathia in a chick model. The study sheds light on the etiology of human ciliopathic micrognathia, highlighting distinct cellular processes impaired during its onset.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateFeb 15, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Planetary system with a backward-rotating star

A team of scientists has discovered a planetary system with a backward-rotating star, K2-290, which exhibits stellar-planetary misalignment. The star's rotation is opposite to the planets' orbits, with a tilt of approximately 124° relative to their orbits.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021

Heartbeat secrets unlocked as cardiac rhythm gene role identified

Researchers have identified a key gene in zebrafish cardiac rhythm, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of cardiac arrhythmia in humans. The gene, Tmem161b, is found to play a central function in controlling heart rhythm, with mutations potentially causing fatal arrhythmias.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Zika vaccine candidate shows promise in phase I trial

A Zika virus candidate, Ad26.ZIKV.001, showed promising safety and immunogenicity in a phase I clinical trial. The vaccine induced persistent neutralizing antibody responses and was found to be safe with mild to moderate reactogenicity. Researchers recommend further development of the vaccine should the need reemerge.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 15, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Insight about tumor microenvironment could boost cancer immunotherapy

Researchers found that disrupting the effect of the tumor microenvironment on immune cells in mice allowed for shrinking tumors, prolonging survival and increasing sensitivity to immunotherapy. Silencing a key protein MCT1 caused tumor growth to slow down and killer T cells could attack cancer.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature·DateFeb 15, 2021

The water surface is a fantastic place for chemical reactions

Researchers used advanced technique to study phenol reaction at air-water interface, revealing a 10,000-fold increase in reaction speed compared to bulk water. The findings could improve understanding of catalytic chemistry and its impact on the global environment.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 15, 2021

Improving amputation surgery

Researchers developed an agonist-antagonist myoneural interface (AMI) that restored physiological feedback, enabling greater precision of movement and reducing pain in amputees. Studies showed improved muscle activity coordination and lower pain levels compared to traditional amputation procedures.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021

Moffitt uses mathematical modeling to identify factors that determine adaptive therapy success

The study found that cell turnover and cost of resistance are important factors impacting adaptive therapy success, with higher cell density and smaller pre-existing resistance levels doing better under adaptive conditions. Researchers developed a mathematical model to visualize the dynamics of cell populations and competition between ...

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 15, 2021

Membrane building blocks play decisive role in controlling cell growth

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg found that phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) controls various aspects of cell growth in pollen tubes by influencing the distribution of enzymes and resulting effects on cytoskeleton stabilization and pectin secretion.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateFeb 15, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Shrubs and soils: A hot topic in the cool tundra

Researchers found that shrubs impact tundra soil microclimate, reducing moisture, temperature, and organic carbon stocks. This affects the global carbon cycle, as Arctic soils store significant amounts of belowground organic carbon.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEcosystems·DateFeb 15, 2021

Tropical paper wasps babysit for neighbours

Research by the University of Bristol team found that tropical paper wasps provide crucial support to extended family members, including helping neighboring nests. By observing twenty thousand baby wasps and their carers, the team discovered that workers become less useful as colony sizes rise due to a surplus of help.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 15, 2021

Moiré patterns facilitate discovery of novel insulating phases

Physicists at UC Riverside created moiré patterns by overlaying WS2 and WSe2 layers, leading to insulating states with varying electron occupancy fractions. Strong interactions between electrons restrict mobile electrons into local cells, resulting in insulating behavior. Similar behaviors can occur for other occupancy fractions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 15, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.