Mouse sperm generated in rats
Researchers successfully grow mouse stem cells into sperm in the body of rats, paving the way for efficient reproduction and future applications.
Science News Archive March 2021 - Page 49
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'A Bluetooth mouse'--you can wirelessly read a mouse's mind
A research team at Toyohashi University of Technology has developed a lightweight, compact, Bluetooth-low-energy-based wireless neuronal recording system for use in mice. The system weighs less than 3.9g and offers high signal quality, good versatility, and low cost compared to wired recording.
In equilibrium
Researchers have found a complex equilibrium between bimetallic species in the Br-Mg exchange, with lithium magnesiates playing a key role. Detailed NMR spectroscopic studies revealed that an alkyl-rich lithium magnesiate is the active species of the reaction.
Study highlights pitfalls associated with 'cybervetting' job candidates
A recent study highlights pitfalls associated with cybervetting, revealing that it assesses a candidate's moral character and often reflects explicit or implicit biases. The study calls for clear guidelines on the use of cybervetting to prevent bias in hiring processes.
Study of severe pediatric COVID-19 syndrome highlights differences in immune responses to SARS-CoV-2
A new study reveals unique immune features of severe pediatric COVID-19, including increased activation of killer T cells and prolonged B cell frequencies. These findings may inform treatments for severe COVID-19 in children.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Immunology·DateMar 2, 2021
Mammal ancestors moved in their own unique way
A team of researchers overturns the long-standing hypothesis that mammal ancestors moved like modern lizards. They discovered that non-mammalian synapsids moved their backbone in a manner distinctly different from any living animal.
SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 2, 2021
Could rising temperatures send more people with MS to the hospital?
A preliminary study found that people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are at a higher risk of experiencing worsening symptoms during periods of anomalously warm weather. The study estimated an excess of over 2,900 medical visits related to MS due to rising temperatures.
Division of labor within regenerating liver maintains metabolism, mouse study finds
A subset of liver cells takes on a greater workload to maintain metabolic function during regeneration, while others multiply in a coordinated manner. The liver's ability to regenerate and maintain its metabolic activity is crucial for the body's overall health.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 2, 2021
Desert beetle: a help for the drying planet
Researchers at Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun have developed a new type of membrane using the desert beetle's armor structure, which is both hydrophobic and hydrophilic. The membranes can efficiently separate water from salt and other impurities, with potential applications in desalination and purification.
SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 2, 2021
SHEA names first editor for Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) has launched a new open-access journal, Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology, with Dr. Gonzalo Bearman at the helm. The journal will focus on original research, reviews, and commentaries on infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship.
SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 2, 2021
Animals fake death for long periods to escape predators
Researchers found that antlion larvae can remain motionless for up to 61 minutes by 'playing dead', confusing predators and encouraging them to search elsewhere. This clever tactic allows the larvae to stay alive in an arms race with their predators.
New cell line could lead to more reliable vaccine development to fight costly pig virus
A new cell line called ZMAC has been shown to significantly improve the success rate for isolating the PRRS virus, with a success rate of 57.6% compared to 26.3% for the current cell line MARC-145.
Researchers find effective combination of therapies for managing mitochondrial disease
A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers has identified a combination therapy that provides measurable benefits to patients with mitochondrial respiratory chain disorders. The treatment, which includes glucose, nicotinic acid, and N-acetylcysteine, showed improved lifespan, mitochondrial membrane potential, and preven...
An instructor's guide to reducing college students' stress and anxiety
A new review from Chapman University offers actionable strategies for instructors to alleviate student stress and anxiety in the classroom. The approaches include learning and preparing to act, connecting with students, building an empowering classroom culture, reducing testing anxiety, and promoting effective academic skills. By imple...
Plastic solar cells combine high-speed optical communication with indoor energy harvesting
Plastic solar cells have been developed to harness both energy and transmit high-speed data signals using MIMO visible light communications. The cells overcome the limitations of large detector areas and electrical bandwidths by using an array of OPV cells as a receiver.
SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 2, 2021
Saarbruecken chemists develop variety of industrially important synthetic process
Saarbruecken chemists create new class of germanium-based compounds with Ge=Ge bond stability for synthetic use in olefin metathesis. The method enables synthesis of long-chain polymers and holds promise for novel materials in organic electronics.
Lead up to volcanic eruption in Galapagos captured in rare detail
Scientists captured data over 13 years as the volcano's magma chamber gradually refilled, stressing the surrounding crust and creating earthquakes. The study provides new insights into the Galapagos Islands' most active volcano, Sierra Negra, and its caldera resurgence.
Assessment of respiratory function in infants, young children wearing face masks during COVID-19 pandemic
A study of 47 infants and young children in Italy found that wearing surgical face masks for 30 minutes did not cause changes in respiratory parameters or clinical signs of distress. The results suggest that face masks may be a safe option for these young patients during the pandemic.
Study: Using a warmer tone in college syllabi makes students more likely to ask for help
A study from Oregon State University found that warm-toned college syllabi are more likely to encourage students to reach out when struggling or needing help. The tone of the syllabus has a greater impact on student behavior than a deliberate 'Reach out for help' statement.
High fat diets may over-activate destructive heart disease protein
A high fat diet has been found to activate a response in the heart that leads to destructive growth and increased risk of heart attacks. The research, published in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, found that mice fed a high fat diet had twice the amount of oxidative stress on their heart cells.
SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateMar 2, 2021
Rating tornado warnings charts a path to improve forecasts
A new method to rate tornado warning skill improves understanding of forecast challenges, particularly nighttime and summer twisters. The study finds that these events are harder to predict due to unfavorable conditions and fewer eyewitness reports.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateMar 2, 2021
Healthcare protections for LGBTQ persons may broaden under Biden administration
Under a potential new rule, the Biden administration aims to expand healthcare protections for the LGBTQ community. The move seeks to safeguard against verbal abuse, physical abuse, and denials of basic care services. By including gender identity and sexual orientation in existing laws, advocates hope to prevent discriminatory practice...
Intriguing particles emerge when two photons couple
Scientists at University of Bath found a way to bind two photons together, creating photon-photon polaritons with predicted masses 1,000+ times lighter than electrons. This discovery has potential applications in terabit and quantum optical communication schemes and precision measurements.
Skipping mammogram increases risk of death from breast cancer
A large study of over half a million women found that skipping even one scheduled mammography screening before a breast cancer diagnosis significantly increases the risk of dying from the cancer. Regular participation in all scheduled screens confers the greatest reduction in risk of dying from breast cancer.
Oregon researchers unveil the weaving fractal network of connecting neurons
Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered a fractal network of connecting neurons in the brain, which balances energy costs to facilitate communication between neurons. The study's findings have implications for designing implants to treat macular degeneration and other retinal diseases.
AAHA and AAFP release updated feline life stage guidelines to the veterinary community
The updated guidelines outline four age-related life stages, from kittens to senior cats, with a focus on tailored care approaches and lifelong healthcare plans. Quick reference tables and lifestyle assessment forms aid veterinary professionals in developing evolving care plans that cater to each cat's unique needs.
New research highlights impact of the digital divide
Researchers found that people with basic Information Technology (IT) skills are more likely to be employed and earn higher salaries. Basic IT skills include using email, copying files, and working with Excel spreadsheets.
Assessment of hotel-based COVID-19 isolation, quarantine strategy for people experiencing homelessness
A hotel-based isolation and quarantine strategy can deliver integrated medical and behavioral health support safely outside hospital settings. This approach significantly reduces the risk of COVID-19 transmission among people experiencing homelessness during the pandemic.
Deepwater Horizon's long-lasting legacy for dolphins
A long-term study found that bottlenose dolphins in Louisiana's Barataria Bay, exposed to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, show abnormal immune responses and are more susceptible to pathogens. The researchers observed dysfunctional T-reg cells, which may be irreversible, raising concerns for the long-term recovery of these dolphins.
Belly fat resistant to every-other-day fasting: study
Researchers mapped out changes in fat tissue during intermittent fasting, showing visceral 'belly' fat becomes resistant to weight loss by adapting to repeated fasting periods. The study provides insights into the mechanisms behind this resistance and potential diet interventions.
A world first: A robot able to "hear" through the ear of a locust
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have connected a real locust ear to a robot that receives electrical signals and responds accordingly. The locust's ear detects vibrations in the air, allowing the robot to move forward or backward based on clapping sounds.
Sequential treatment with immunotherapy and checkpoint inhibitors prolongs anti-tumor activity
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center found that sequential treatment with immunotherapy followed by BRAF and MEK inhibitors promotes anti-tumor immunity and suppresses signaling that leads to drug resistance. The study suggests that this approach may be a potential treatment option for patients with melanoma.
SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateMar 2, 2021
Human instinct can be as useful as algorithms in detecting online 'deception'
A recent study published in Information & Management found that human analysis can effectively identify fake online reviews by leveraging linguistic characteristics. Researchers asked participants to distinguish between authentic and fake hotel reviews, with surprisingly effective outcomes.
Scientists develop elements for the future electronics
Researchers at Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University are developing thin films made from biological macromolecules such as proteins and amino acids. These unique materials exhibit self-organization ability and can be assembled into certain structures, potentially solving energy efficiency limitations in modern electro...
New study gives the most detailed look yet at the neuroscience of placebo effects
A meta-analysis of 20 neuroimaging studies finds that placebo treatments reduce pain-related activity in multiple brain areas, including the thalamus and somatosensory cortex. The study, led by Tor Wager, demonstrates that the brain constructs pain experiences through a mix of processing stations and motivational circuits.
TPU scientists develop efficient method to create high-strength materials for flexible electronics
Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University have developed a method to create high-strength, electrically conductive composites using laser-driven integration of metals into polymers. The new method offers improved mechanical stability and potential applications in flexible electronics, photocatalysis, sensors, and biomedical products.
New study finds atmospheric rivers increase snow mass in West Antarctica
Researchers used NASA's ICESat-2 satellite to track snowfall and found that 41% of height increases over West Antarctica during the 2019 winter occurred due to landfalling atmospheric rivers. These events delivered large quantities of snow during short periods, contributing to increased snow mass.
Quick-learning cuttlefish pass 'the marshmallow test'
In a groundbreaking study, cuttlefish are found to exhibit self-control by delaying gratification, similar to humans and primates. The creatures can wait for up to 50-130 seconds before accepting a better reward, showcasing their ability to exert control over their desires.
Polymerization process of hydrogel microspheres on video
The study used direct visualization to clarify the formation mechanism of microgels during precipitation polymerization. The research revealed that the aggregation of polymer chains in the nucleation process is crucial for determining the nanostructures of microgels, leading to improved understanding of their formation.
Study reveals impact of lockdown on violence in a UK capital city
A new study led by Cardiff University found a large reduction in violent injury outside the home during the UK's first COVID-19 lockdown, with decreases of up to 92% among females under 18 and males of all ages. In contrast, violence inside the home showed no significant change.
Cooperative eco-driving automation improves energy efficiency and safety
A new study proposes a modeling framework for V2V and V2I cooperative driving, which prioritizes saving fuel and reducing emissions. The automated algorithm saves energy by 7% under light traffic and 23% under heavy traffic along the corridor.
Smaller, faster, greener
Computing has a significant environmental impact due to hardware manufacturing and infrastructure. Researchers at Harvard are working to design more sustainable computing systems by reducing emissions from chip manufacturing and improving device efficiency. They also aim to incorporate environmental factors into computational design.
Drug found effective for weight loss in patients with obesity and diabetes, international study show
A recent international study found that semaglutide, an injectable medication, is effective in reducing weight and treating obesity in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The study showed significant weight loss results, with over 25% of participants achieving a 10% or greater weight loss.
Space hurricane observed for the first time
A team of scientists detected a space hurricane in Earth's polar ionosphere and magnetosphere, revealing a long-lasting, swirling mass of plasma. The analysis allowed a 3D image to be created of the hurricane, which rained electrons instead of water.
The MIT Press launches Direct to Open
The MIT Press has launched Direct to Open, a groundbreaking model that shifts the focus from market-based sales to collaborative library support. This initiative aims to increase accessibility and impact of scholarly research, while promoting sustainability in book publishing.
Open Data for Resilience -- A webinar for International Open Data Day
The webinar highlights the importance of open data in developing resilience in agriculture and food systems, particularly in the face of climate change, pandemics, and pests. Key experts share insights on harnessing data to create more sustainable and equitable food systems.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·DateMar 2, 2021
Wolf social group dynamics matter for infectious disease spread, models suggest
Researchers found that wolf social groups affect disease transmission within and between groups. The models account for individual death rates, group split or combination, and Allee effects, showing pathogens reduce population size mainly through reduced group numbers.
Ecology: The scientific literature dominated by men and a handful of countries
A study found that male authors from a few Western countries, such as the US, Canada, and UK, dominate the scientific literature in ecology and conservation biology. The research, published in Conservation Letters, calls for measures to address gender imbalance and geographic diversity.
How much longer will the oxygen-rich atmosphere be sustained on Earth?
A new study suggests that Earth's oxygen-rich atmosphere will likely persist for around one billion years, with a high degree of uncertainty. The researchers used a numerical model to simulate climate and biogeochemical processes, finding that the atmosphere will probably decline in oxygen levels due to CO2 scarcity.
Sniffing in the name of science
Specially trained detection dogs can be used to find endangered species, including otters in Germany and crested newts. They have been proven effective in over 90% of cases, often detecting species faster than other methods.
SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 2, 2021
Secrets of sealed 17th century letters revealed by dental X-ray scanners
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London used a high-sensitivity X-ray scanner to 'virtually unfold' and read an unopened 17th-century letter, preserving its physical evidence. The team discovered the contents of a letter dated July 31, 1697, which provides insight into the lives of ordinary people during turbulent European his...
Researchers detects chiral structures using vortex light
Scientists at USTC developed a new technique to detect chiral structures using vortex light, which interacts with the structure's microstructure to produce significant scattering. This technique allows for monochromatic light detection and provides a novel method for studying chiral light-matter interactions.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2021
Drug target could fight Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease
A team of international researchers has discovered a promising therapeutic drug target, SARM1, which is activated in response to nerve fibre damage. This finding offers hope for developing effective treatments for neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.
Black NBA players have shorter careers than white players
A new study found that Black NBA players have a 30% greater chance of exiting the league than their white counterparts with equivalent performance. The disparity is mainly due to bench players, who are predominantly Black but average less than 20 minutes of court time per game.
Dresden researchers develop new strategy for efficient OLED active matrix displays
Dresden researchers have developed a novel device concept combining vertical organic permeable base transistors and OLEDs, achieving high efficiencies and low driving voltages. The new strategy paves the way for highly-efficient flexible displays with simple pixel designs.
Model describes interactions between light and mechanical vibration in microcavities
A study by researchers at the University of Campinas investigated optomechanical coupling, creating a theoretical model that was validated by simulations and comparisons with experimental results. The researchers found that both dispersive and dissipative interactions occur in microcavities, which can contribute to advances in fields s...
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 2, 2021
Using stimuli-responsive biomaterials to understand heart development, disease
Scientists created a shape memory polymer to promote cardiomyocyte alignment and growth, providing a platform to study heart development and disease. The research uses stimuli-responsive biomaterials to mimic the dynamic microenvironment during heart development.
COVID-19 spread tracked via a rapid, large-scale early wastewater surveillance alert system
Researchers developed a rapid and cost-effective early warning system using high-throughput analysis of wastewater samples to detect new COVID-19 cases. The system automates most analysis, enabling quick turnaround time and reducing human error.
Indoors, outdoors, 6 feet apart? Transmission risk of airborne viruses can be quantified
Scientists at Colorado State University quantify transmission risk of airborne viruses, considering aerosol dynamics for indoor and outdoor scenarios. They find that distancing indoors may not be enough to limit harmful exposures due to confinement and particle buildup.
Weight loss drug hope for patients with type 2 diabetes
A new study published in The Lancet found that patients with type 2 diabetes treated with Semaglutide achieved significant weight loss and improved blood glucose control. Two-thirds of patients lost at least 5% of their body weight, while over a quarter lost more than 15%.