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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 23


Page 23 of 45

Collagen structures get the royal reveal

Researchers have created an algorithm called SCEPTTr that predicts the stability of collagen triple helices, a critical structure in skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The program expands on previous work to understand natural amino acids and provides detailed melting temperatures for each possible combination of sequences.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 15, 2021

Enormous ancient fish discovered by accident

A team of researchers from the University of Portsmouth discovered a massive ancient fish fossil, estimated to be around 5 meters long, which is the largest of its type ever found. The fossil, composed of many thin bony plates arranged like a barrel, was identified as a coelacanth, a species believed to be extinct for millions of years.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCretaceous Research·DateFeb 15, 2021

Corn belt farmland has lost a third of its carbon-rich soil

The US Department of Agriculture has underestimated the true magnitude of farmland erosion in the Corn Belt, which has lost nearly 30 million acres of its carbon-rich topsoil. Researchers used remote sensing to quantify the previously underestimated erosion, highlighting the need for tillage erosion inclusion in soil loss models.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021

Instant death from heart attack more common in people who do not exercise

A study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that individuals who do not exercise have a higher risk of dying immediately from a heart attack. Regular physical activity was associated with a lower risk of instant and 28-day fatal heart attacks, with moderate to high levels of activity showing significant benefits.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateFeb 12, 2021

Researchers propose that humidity from masks may lessen severity of COVID-19

A NIH study found that face masks increase humidity in inhaled air, which can benefit the immune system and combat respiratory diseases like COVID-19. The humidifying effects of masks vary depending on temperature and mask type, with thick cotton masks leading to the most increased level of humidity.

Sweet coating for sour bones

Researchers developed a bioactive coating that sequentially turns on and off inflammation on bone implants under osteoporotic conditions. The coating harnesses the power of immune responses to enhance implanting efficacy without increasing the number or stimulating function of bone cells.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 12, 2021

Identifying risk factors for elevated anxiety in young adults during COVID-19 pandemic

A new study found that children with high behavioral inhibition in toddlerhood were more likely to experience worry dysregulation and elevated anxiety in young adulthood. This research could help predict who is at greatest risk of developing anxiety during stressful life events and inform prevention efforts.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateFeb 12, 2021

New class of drug leads to 30% reduced risk of death for bladder cancer patients

A new class of antibiotic-drug conjugate (ADC) drugs has been found to significantly increase the survival rate of patients with bladder cancer. The study, led by Queen Mary University of London, showed that the drug reduced the risk of death by 30% compared to chemotherapy, with a median survival time of approximately 13 months.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 12, 2021

Algorithm that performs as accurately as dermatologists

A new AI algorithm has demonstrated the ability to accurately diagnose skin melanoma, rivaling that of experienced dermatologists. The study used machine learning to analyze 937 images and 200 cases, with results showing no significant difference between human dermatologists and the algorithm in making classifications.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateFeb 12, 2021

Study shows airborne particulate matter is also contaminated with tobacco smoke-driven particulates

A landmark study reveals that airborne particulate matter is contaminated with tobacco smoke-driven particulates, with Nicotelline identified as a suitable marker. The study shows a ubiquitous presence of Nicotelline even at low concentrations, with geographical variability linked to population density and tobacco use prevalence.

SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalEnvironment International·DateFeb 12, 2021

T cells depressed

Research on T cells reveals that prolonged exposure to antigens can lead to exhaustion, reducing their ability to contribute to immune responses. A new model study identifies dynamic adjustments in T helper cells' states of exhaustion and suggests potential therapeutic targets.

The Lancet: COVID-19 vaccination potential will not be achieved without increased production, affordable pricing, global availability, and successful rollout

To ensure an effective global immunization strategy against COVID-19, vaccines must be produced at scale, priced affordably, and allocated globally. The authors assess the potential contribution of leading vaccines using a traffic light system, highlighting production challenges and the need for equitable distribution. Governments and ...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 12, 2021