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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 33


Page 33 of 45

Machine learning could aid mental health diagnoses

Researchers developed a machine learning method to accurately diagnose patients with mixed symptoms, revealing that depression plays a greater role in psychosis than thought. The study highlights the need for better treatments and more accurate diagnostic methods.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateFeb 8, 2021

What happens in the mouth ... doesn't stay in the mouth

Research ties oral health issues to systemic diseases like type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease, highlighting the importance of a healthy mouth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can prevent oral diseases and promote overall well-being.

SourceOhio State University·DateFeb 8, 2021

Cleaning Up the Mississippi River

A 100-year record of water quality trends in the lower Mississippi River was reconstructed by LSU Professor R. Eugene Turner, revealing significant improvements in bacterial concentrations and oxygen content after the Clean Water Act went into effect.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalAMBIO·DateFeb 8, 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.

Happiness really does come for free

A study found that communities with low monetization have remarkably high levels of happiness, comparable to Scandinavian countries. The researchers interviewed 678 people and found that social and economic factors play a bigger role in higher monetized sites.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 8, 2021

Scientists switch on tissue repair in inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers at KU Leuven and Seoul National University create method to stimulate immune system cells to repair damaged tissues, offering new potential treatment for inflammatory bowel disease. The technique involves targeting specific macrophage cells with liposomes containing a substance that triggers tissue regeneration.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalGut·DateFeb 8, 2021

Better understanding the reasons behind Arctic amplified warming

The Arctic is warming at a rate twice as fast as the rest of the planet due to regional factors such as reduced albedo and aerosol interactions. Research suggests that clouds and aerosols play a crucial role in regulating the climate, and improving weather models could help predict future changes.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 8, 2021

Tiny crustacean redefines ultra-fast movement

A tiny amphipod has been found to snap its claw shut 10,000 times faster than the blink of an eye, thanks to its small size and aquatic environment. This unique movement is repeatable, making it a significant challenge for engineering.

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 8, 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.

COVID-19 infections in the U.S. nearly three times greater than reported, model estimates

A machine-learning algorithm developed at UT Southwestern estimates that the number of COVID-19 cases in the US is nearly three times that of confirmed cases, with over 71 million people estimated to have contracted the virus. The algorithm provides daily updated estimates of total infections and the number of people currently infected...

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 8, 2021

NTUsg researchers develop flexible piezoelectric crystal

Researchers at NTU Singapore have created a new material that can flex and bend 40 times more than its competitors, opening the way to better micro machines. The hybrid material generates electricity effectively when bent, potentially recharging batteries in gadgets from everyday movements.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 8, 2021

How rocks rusted on Earth and turned red

A Rutgers-led study has discovered the natural mineral hematite is responsible for the red color in New Jersey rocks and American Southwest formations. The research reveals that hematite concentrations track 14.5 million years of Late Triassic monsoonal rainfall, providing valuable insights into ancient climate change.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 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.

COVID-19 news fromAnnals of Internal Medicine

A study analyzing Kaiser Permanente members found racial minorities more likely to test positive for COVID-19 than white patients, with Latino patients nearly 4 times as likely. Healthcare workers in Los Angeles expressed hesitancy about getting the COVID-19 vaccine, citing concerns over development and science.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 8, 2021

Food waste researcher: We must learn that brown fruit isn't bad fruit

A new study reveals that emotions play a significant role in food choices, leading to over $716,000 tonnes of wasted food in Denmark each year. Researchers suggest communicating the benefits of imperfect fruit and exploring effective platforms to promote sustainable eating habits.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateFeb 8, 2021

UMass Amherst researchers gain insight into the biology of a deadly fungus

UMass Amherst researchers discovered that the actin networks of a deadly fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), play crucial roles in its pathogenicity. The study provides insights into the evolution of actin cytoskeleton and sheds light on the disease chytridiomycosis affecting amphibian populations.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 8, 2021

A billion years in 40 seconds: Video reveals our dynamic planet

A team of geoscientists has created an entirely new model of Earth evolution over the last billion years, showcasing how geological processes, like plate tectonics, provide a planetary life-support system. The research helps understand planetary habitability and finding critical metal resources needed for a low-carbon future.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalEarth-Science Reviews·DateFeb 8, 2021

Type 2 diabetes: drugs initially increase glucose production

Research using magnetic resonance spectroscopy reveals that SGLT2 inhibitors trigger a balance between glucose loss and new production in the liver, affecting metabolism in several organs. The study provides insight into the acute impact of these drugs on lipid and energy metabolism.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalDiabetes Care·DateFeb 8, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Scientists create armour for fragile quantum technology

A team of scientists has developed a protective coating made from ultrathin gallium oxide to shield 2D materials from damage. This innovation enables the use of extremely thin materials in electronics, promising lower energy consumption and increased efficiency.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 8, 2021

STINGing tumors with nanoparticles

A new nanoparticle-based drug can boost the body's innate immune system and make it more effective at fighting off tumors. Researchers found that the polymer-based nanoparticles activate STING even without a small molecule activator, causing a more sustained effect on the protein.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 8, 2021

Astronomer and artist receives AAAS Early Career Award for Public Engagement

Annette S. Lee receives the AAAS Early Career Award for Public Engagement in Science for her culturally relevant and community-focused projects grounded in indigenous knowledge of the stars. Her initiatives, such as Native Skywatchers, improve education inequalities faced by native youth and promote cultural pride.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 8, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Role of aspirating system type in SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity among dental staff

A study of 157 healthcare workers in Ekaterinburg, Russia found that aspirating systems with HEPA filters reduced SARS-CoV-2 infection prevalence. Dental clinics using dry suction systems had higher infection rates compared to those utilizing semi-dry and fully filtered systems.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJDR Clinical & Translational Research·DateFeb 8, 2021

Deepfake detectors can be defeated, computer scientists show for the first time

Researchers showed that deepfake detectors can be defeated by inserting inputs called adversarial examples into every video frame, which cause AI systems to make mistakes. The attack still works after videos are compressed. Key findings include high success rates of over 99% for uncompressed and 84.96% for compressed videos.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 8, 2021

Carbon dioxide and global increase in tree photosynthesis

A global study found that carbon dioxide levels have increased tree photosynthesis efficiency by 40% between 1901 and 2015. The increase is primarily driven by the rise in atmospheric CO2, with additional analysis suggesting enhanced photosynthesis as a key factor.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Does Goal 7 Energy for All need a rethink?

New research by Copenhagen Business School finds that poor planning and execution of decarbonisation strategies in emerging markets challenges the aims of Goal 7. The study highlights the need for governance in energy democracy, allowing marginalized communities to participate in renewable energy investments. This can be achieved throu...

SourceCopenhagen Business School·JournalJournal of International Business Policy·DateFeb 8, 2021

WVU biologists uncover forests' unexpected role in climate change

A study by WVU biologists found that trees globally are consuming more carbon dioxide than previously reported, making forests crucial in regulating the Earth's atmosphere. The research shows that increased photosynthesis is the main driver of this increase, contradicting previous studies.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

To figure out how dinosaurs walked, start with how they didn't

Researchers use innovative 3D imaging technology to analyze joint mobility in living animals and apply patterns to reconstruct extinct dinosaurs' walking and running cycles. The study provides new perspectives on understanding animal biomechanics and its applications in evolutionary transitions.

SourceBrown University·DateFeb 8, 2021

Microbiota transfer therapy for autism: Multi-omic approaches and lessons learned

A microbiome-targeted therapy, known as microbial transfer therapy (MTT), has shown encouraging results in treating autism symptoms by expanding gut microbia diversity and reducing GI issues. The approach involved transferring healthy gut microbes into ASD patients' guts over 7-8 weeks, leading to improved behavior and reduced symptoms.

SourceArizona State University·DateFeb 8, 2021

Cells are collective thinkers

Researchers discovered that cells use active perception to coordinate action when creating new tissue. They found that filopodia movement helps inform a decision by detecting signals in the environment.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateFeb 8, 2021

Can the brain resist the group opinion?

Scientists discovered that brain activity changes in response to disagreement with group opinion, allowing for future adjustments. The brain retains a 'trace' of past conflicts, influencing future decisions.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 8, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

3D-printed spectrometer on a 100 x100 μm² footprint

Researchers have created an angle-insensitive 3D-printed miniature spectrometer that can be fabricated directly on a miniature image sensor. This innovation enables complex measurement systems in medical engineering and precision farming, with potential applications in hyperspectral imaging.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateFeb 8, 2021

Marmoset monkeys have personalities too

A study published in American Journal of Primatology found that common marmosets exhibit distinct personality traits, such as explorativeness, boldness, and extraversion. These findings are consistent across captive and wild settings, suggesting that personality is a stable trait in these animals.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·DateFeb 8, 2021

10-year study shows elevated suicide risk from excess social media time for teen girls

A 10-year study by Brigham Young University reveals that teenage girls who spent more than two to three hours a day on social media were at a higher risk of suicide as emerging adults. The study suggests that parental guidance and moderation are key to mitigating the negative effects of social media on mental health.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateFeb 8, 2021

Hearing acrobatics

A dynamic and delicate connection between two pairs of protein filaments, called tip links, plays a central role in hearing. The tension held by these filaments is essential for the activation of sensory cells in the inner ear.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2021

Fetal surgery for spina bifida leads to better mobility in school-age children

Children who received prenatal repair of their spina bifida had better gross and fine motor skills, stronger leg muscles, and were more likely to walk independently up to 10 years after surgery. They also showed improved self-care skills and a higher quality of life compared to those who underwent postnatal repair.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 8, 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.

MSK researchers learn what's driving 'brain fog' in people with COVID-19

A multidisciplinary team from Memorial Sloan Kettering reports the presence of inflammatory molecules in the cerebrospinal fluid as the underlying cause of 'COVID brain' or brain fog, a condition characterized by confusion and loss of short-term memory. Anti-inflammatory drugs like steroids may be useful for treating the condition.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateFeb 8, 2021

Uncovering how some corals resist bleaching

Researchers at Michigan State University and the University of Hawaii have discovered chemical signatures in corals that indicate resistance to bleaching. The study found that resistant corals host algae with saturated lipids, which differ from those found in susceptible corals with more unsaturated lipids.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 8, 2021

What rules govern the structure of membraneless organelles?

A study in Nature Communications outlines the physical rules regulating the architecture of membraneless organelles (MLOs), also known as biomolecular condensates. The research found that RNA amount and protein amino acid sequence impact MLO surface stickiness, enabling predictive control over their arrangement.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2021

1918 pandemic second wave had fatal consequences

The study found that the spread of Spanish flu differed depending on the region, with a decrease in infection numbers associated with public health measures. Delayed action at the start of the second wave was fatal, contributing to its severity and duration. The researchers compared historical data from 1918 and 2020 and found parallel...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 8, 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.

HKBU and CUHK launch Spermine Risk Score for prostate cancer diagnosis

The new risk score, developed by HKBU and CUHK researchers, uses urine spermine levels to estimate a patient's risk of developing prostate cancer. The test has been shown to accurately identify high-risk patients and help reduce unnecessary biopsies.

SourceHong Kong Baptist University·JournalProstate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases·DateFeb 8, 2021

Researchers develop data tool that may improve care

A new data tool called SafeNET can rapidly predict mortality for patients facing transfer between hospitals, helping physicians, patients, and families make informed decisions. The tool analyzes patient demographics, vital signs, lab tests, and other factors to provide a predicted mortality risk in under five minutes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 8, 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.

Scientists discover how a group of caterpillars became poisonous

A group of caterpillars that eat cycad plants have evolved a toxic defense mechanism, resulting in bold colors and behaviors to deter predators. The study reveals the genetic consequences of this adaptation, including rapid evolutionary change and the development of proteins that destroy cells and remove dead cell debris.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2021

Geisinger researchers find AI can predict death risk

Researchers at Geisinger Health System developed an AI algorithm using echocardiogram videos to predict mortality within a year. The model outperformed other clinically used predictors and improved cardiologists' prediction accuracy by 13 percent.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 8, 2021

Captive-bred juvenile salmon unlikely to become migratory when released into streams

Research at Kobe University Graduate School of Science found that captive-bred juvenile red-spotted masu salmon rarely become migratory when released into natural streams. This discovery has implications for conservation and management of salmon species, highlighting the need for reevaluation of stocking practices and river environments.

SourceKobe University·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 8, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Helping translational research meet the needs of older adults

A new program at the University of Pittsburgh, funded by the NIH, aims to educate investigators and innovators on designing for older adults. The Human Factors of Aging program will help translate research into action, considering physical, cognitive, and sensory issues that often get overlooked.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateFeb 8, 2021

Biomedical engineer earns AAAS Mentor Award for commitment to students' success

Manu Platt, a biomedical engineer at Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, has received the AAAS Mentor Award for his commitment to mentoring underrepresented students. He provides opportunities for growth, encourages students to step out of their comfort zones, and advocates for diversity in STEM fields.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 8, 2021

An interdecadal decrease in extreme heat days in August over Northeast China around the early 1990s

Researchers found a significant interdecadal decrease in extreme heat days over Northeast China from the 1980s to 2000s, driven by reduced variability of daily maximum temperature. The Silk Road and East Asian-Pacific teleconnections played a crucial role in modulating this change.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateFeb 8, 2021

Study identifies 'post-traumatic growth' emerging from COVID-19 lockdowns

A new study analyzing survey data collected during the first wave of the pandemic found that lockdowns had significant positive impacts on many people and their families. The research identified four key areas of 'post-traumatic growth', including increased appreciation for life, spiritual growth, and discovering new opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 8, 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.

Bernese researchers create sophisticated lung-on-chip

Scientists have developed a biological lung-on-chip that replicates the human lung's structure and function, enabling researchers to model lung diseases such as IPF and COPD. The device has broad clinical applications, including drug screening and precision medicine.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 8, 2021

Monitoring precious groundwater resources for arid agricultural regions

The developed framework captures detailed information on agricultural groundwater use at the regional scale down to individual fields. It combines data from satellite images, weather prediction models, and land-surface hydrology models to estimate water delivery to each field.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalHydrology and Earth System Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2021