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Science News Archive July 2021 - Page 4


Page 4 of 41

Artificial Intelligence learns better when distracted

Researchers from the University of Groningen and Spain developed a method to train AI systems using distractions to improve image recognition. By analyzing how deep learning systems process images, they found that forcing the system's focus towards secondary characteristics can lead to better performance.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNeural Computing and Applications·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 29, 2021

Why uncertainty makes us change our behaviour – even when we shouldn’t

Research from UNSW Sydney found that unexpected uncertainty prompts people to adjust their behavior, even if it's not the best strategy. In contrast, gradual changes in uncertainty do not lead to significant behavioral shifts. The study suggests that understanding how people react to uncertainty can help overcome inertia and promote su...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2021

Remember more by taking breaks

Researchers found that longer breaks between learning events lead to more stable activation patterns in the brain, allowing for better memory retention. This study provides insights into the neuronal processes behind the spacing effect, suggesting that taking breaks can slow down learning but improve long-term memory.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2021

Using AI to predict suicidal behaviours in students

A study from McGill University and France uses AI to identify factors predicting suicidal behavior in students, finding self-esteem as a major predictor. Approximately 17% of students exhibited suicidal behaviors, highlighting the need for large-scale screening tools.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2021

Neandertal and Denisovan blood groups deciphered

Researchers analyzed Neandertal and Denisovan genomes to identify blood groups, confirming their African origin and Eurasian dispersal. The study also found evidence of low genetic diversity and possible demographic fragility, shedding light on the disappearance of Neandertals.

SourceCNRS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 28, 2021

Measuring conservation in a way that counts

A new study challenges the effectiveness of current conservation efforts in protected areas, suggesting that 'saving' biodiversity may not be accurately measured. The study's lead author argues that measures such as expanding protected areas and establishing national parks do not necessarily translate to real progress in conservation.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 28, 2021

Personally addressed emails designed with behavioral science can increase COVID-19 vaccine registration among vaccine-hesitant healthcare workers

A randomized trial found that individually addressed email reminders designed with behavioral science principles increased COVID-19 vaccination registration among healthcare workers, compared to those who did not receive an email. The emails led to more than twice as many registrations within three days.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 28, 2021

Psychological consequences of Covid-19 in health care

A recent study by the University of Bonn highlights the psychological consequences of Covid-19 in healthcare workers, with over 20% experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety. The researchers found that a strong sense of coherence and social support were key protective factors against mental strain, emphasizing the importance of ti...

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 28, 2021

Berkeley Lab’s CAMERA leads international effort on autonomous scientific discoveries

Researchers are exploring autonomous discovery techniques to reduce data required for scientific discovery, enabling faster and more efficient exploration of multi-dimensional parameter spaces. The field is gaining traction across various disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, materials science, and more.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Reviews Physics·DateJul 28, 2021

Researchers identify powerful tool for analyzing large patient datasets

Immunology researchers from The University of Queensland have identified UMAP as a powerful tool for analyzing large patient datasets. This method performed significantly better than PCA in reducing the complexity of big data, enabling accurate patient stratification and clustering. The findings could lead to the adoption of targeted t...

SourceTranslational Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2021

Novel method for fast 3D microscopy

Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed a novel method for fast 3D microscopy, allowing for precise tracking of non-labeled biological structures. This breakthrough enables new insights into cellular dynamics and has potential applications in fields such as bionics and understanding causes of infertility.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2021

Systematic differences across countries associated with use of COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions; lockdowns decrease mobility while school closures have no effect

Researchers analyzed country-level health systems capacity and socioeconomic characteristics to understand delays in implementing COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions. Lockdowns significantly reduced physical mobility, while national school closures had no significant impact.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalThe European Journal of Health Economics·DateJul 28, 2021

Imaging method predicts how well stem cells can differentiate into cardiac muscle cells

A new imaging technique developed by the Skala Lab can predict the efficiency of cardiomyocyte differentiation from human pluripotent stem cells, providing a non-invasive quality control method. The technique uses autofluorescence to measure metabolic activity and has been shown to be accurate in predicting outcome with high consistency.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2021

Not-so-blind mice can make strategic and acute visual choices

Researchers found that mice can make fine visual discriminations between slightly different lines, suggesting a more complex decision-making process than previously thought. The study's findings highlight the importance of considering non-perceptual biases in understanding animal behavior and decision-making strategies.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 28, 2021

Study suggests need to screen older adults for mental health symptoms as pandemic continues

A new study suggests that older adults, particularly women and those in fair or poor health, are more likely to experience worsened mental health symptoms during the pandemic. The study recommends screening for depression, anxiety, and sleep problems and connecting participants to treatment resources.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateJul 28, 2021