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Science News Archive May 2021 - Page 44


Page 44 of 47

Concussions among US adolescents

A recent survey study estimated that the percentage of US adolescents who reported at least one diagnosed concussion during their lifetime has increased. The study found that nearly 3% of adolescents in the United States experienced a concussion, with higher rates among males and those participating in contact sports.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 4, 2021

Being around children makes adults more generous

A new study found that adults are up to twice as likely to donate to charity when children are around, indicating a 'child salience effect'. The presence of children influences compassionate motivations and behaviors in adults. This effect was observed across different age groups, parents, and non-parents.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateMay 4, 2021

Snakeskin can inspire to safer buildings

New research from Aarhus University and UC Davis investigates the interaction between soil types and snake-inspired surface geometries. The study found that piles with asymmetric micro-structural features increase load-bearing capacity in sand, reducing resistance during installation by 25-50%.

SourceAarhus University·JournalActa Geotechnica·DateMay 4, 2021

Changes in proteins play important role in aging kidneys

Researchers studied age-related changes in kidney function, combining protein analysis with gene transcription. They found that aging kidneys have increased immune cells, inflammation, and decreased mitochondrial energy production. This suggests that therapies promoting protein building or slowing breakdown may help treat age-related k...

SourceeLife·DateMay 4, 2021

Research reveals Medicaid expansion is still improving hospital finances

A new study published in Medical Care Research and Review found that Medicaid expansion provided a financial boost to hospitals, with uncompensated care costs declining by 28% in states that expanded Medicaid relative to 2013 levels. The study analyzed critical data at state and national levels using IRS and CMS data sources.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalMedical Care Research and Review·DateMay 4, 2021

A sweet solution to hard brain implants

Researchers at McGill University developed a novel approach using silicone and sugar to create the softest brain implant yet. The new implants have shown reduced inflammation and higher neuronal density compared to traditional hard implants.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateMay 4, 2021

New study traces back the progenitor genomes causing COVID-19 and geospatial spread

Researchers reconstructed the SARS-CoV-2 progenitor genome, finding it was circulating worldwide months before the first reported cases of COVID-19 in China. The team's findings provide a genetic common ancestor to all current infections and could aid molecular epidemiology detective work.

The micro-environment of breast cancer in three dimensions

Researchers cultivated tumor microenvironments using metastatic triple-negative breast cancer cells and studied the genetic information of entire systems. They found that cellular communication in the microenvironment drives physiological changes in tumor behavior, including growth and movement.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Biology·DateMay 4, 2021

Laser light makes a comeback (literally)

Researchers from Osaka University have made a groundbreaking discovery about the behavior of laser pulses in free space. They found that laser pulse intensity can propagate in a straight line, with the forward-propagating velocity being the speed of light and the backward-propagating velocity being subluminal.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCommunications Physics·DateMay 4, 2021

New app makes Bitcoin more secure

A new mobile app is being developed to safeguard users of cryptocurrency by detecting vulnerabilities in popular 'wallet' applications used to manage Bitcoin. The app, called the Bitcoin Security Rectifier, monitors for signs of intrusions and alerts users when an attack is happening, providing remedies based on the type of attack.

New study deconstructs Dunbar's number

A new study from Stockholm University debunks the idea that humans can maintain stable relationships with only 150 people, citing a lack of precision in available methods and data. The researchers found that the average maximum group size is often lower than 150, with confidence intervals ranging from 2 to 520 people.

SourceStockholm University·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 4, 2021

MDI Biological Laboratory scientist identifies process critical to kidney function

A team led by Iain Drummond, Ph.D. has identified the signaling mechanisms underlying podocyte formation, a crucial process in kidney function. The discovery could lead to new therapies to stimulate regeneration of these cells, vital for ridding the body of toxins and treating conditions like chronic kidney disease.

SourceMDI Biological Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 4, 2021