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Science News Archive November 2021 - Page 27


Page 27 of 40

Intimate partner violence and reproductive coercion among American Indian and Alaska native women

A study published in Journal of Women's Health found that almost half of American Indian and Alaska Native women reported experiencing reproductive coercion in their lifetime. The research highlights the link between intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and poor reproductive health outcomes among this population.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Women s Health·TypeCase study·DateNov 10, 2021

Your heart 2.0

Researchers have developed AI-powered computer models to predict heart attacks, strokes, and stress-induced blood pressure changes. The models use machine learning to detect early signs of aortic valve anomalies, enabling at-home monitoring and improved diagnostic accuracy.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateNov 10, 2021

How do we learn to learn? New research offers an education

A new study on mice finds that cognitive training designed to focus on what's important while ignoring distractions can enhance the brain's information processing. The research suggests that this type of training can lead to improved learning and memory, particularly in novel tasks. By analyzing neural activity in the hippocampus durin...

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Whole genome sequencing improves diagnosis of rare diseases and shortens diagnostic journeys for patients, according to world first study

A world-first study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that whole genome sequencing can uncover new diagnoses for people with rare diseases. The pilot study analyzed 4,660 individuals and found a new diagnosis for 25% of participants, including 14% not detectable by other conventional methods.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 10, 2021

Immune system early responder can combat COVID-19

A new Yale School of Medicine study reveals that a simple RNA molecule called SLR14 can trigger the production of interferons, key proteins in the body's innate response to infection. The compound has shown promise in mice with chronic cases of COVID-19 and may provide important benefits for immunocompromised individuals.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 10, 2021

COVID-19 lockdowns deepened struggle for work-family balance

A new study by McGill University researchers found that COVID-19 lockdowns disproportionately affected graduate students' mental health, particularly among women. Women reported more stress related to remote teaching and caregiving responsibilities, leading to increased depressive symptoms.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

Dalian Coherent Light Source demonstrates vibrationally excited molecular hydrogen production from water photochemistry

Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics demonstrate vibrationally excited molecular hydrogen production from water photochemistry. This process represents a further source of vibrationally excited H2 observed in the interstellar medium.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 10, 2021

Researchers puncture explanation for largest increase of biodiversity in Earth's history

A new study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that the greatest increase in marine biodiversity on Earth occurred due to changes in climate cycles, rather than an asteroid explosion. Fossil analysis revealed a shift towards colder climates around 469 million years ago, leading to the blooming of marine life.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 10, 2021

Tiny bubbles: Researchers develop a flexible new system for creating soft robotics

Bubble casting is a new way to make soft robots using 'fancy balloons' that change shape in predictable ways when inflated with air. The researchers successfully cast star-shaped hands, coils and fingers, demonstrating the potential for soft robotics applications such as harvesting produce or providing personal care.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Catching the fog as it rolls in

Researchers develop efficient fog filter design using structured nylon nets to capture fog droplets, offering alternative source of fresh water in drought-stricken regions. The design is inspired by the unique abilities of Namib desert beetles and textile-based face masks.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateNov 10, 2021

Penn study finds solid-tumor cancer patients ineligible for clinical trials receive immunotherapy at greater rates despite lack of benefits

A nationwide study published in JAMA Oncology found that immunotherapy use among trial-ineligible solid-tumor cancer patients increased significantly between 2014 and 2019, yet no survival benefit was observed. Researchers emphasize cautious use of immunotherapies for this population due to potential early harm.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

Can't find your keys? You need a chickadee brain

Scientists have identified a genetic component underlying the spatial memories of Mountain Chickadees, which rely on these abilities to survive harsh winters. The study used genetic sequencing and behavioral tests to show that natural selection is shaping chickadee memory.

SourceCornell University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Mangrove restoration has ecological and economic benefits

A global meta-analysis supports the U.N.'s goal of restoring habitats, finding mangrove restoration performs better than unvegetated mud, sand flats or abandoned aquaculture ponds. Restored mangroves yield significant ecological benefits and economic value, making them an ecologically and economically sound choice.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

Most children with cancer have mild COVID-19 and make full recovery

A new study published in the European Journal of Cancer found that most children with cancer have mild COVID-19 disease and make a full recovery. However, patients with underlying health conditions, severe infections, and low white blood cell counts were significantly more likely to experience severe disease. The research involved 131 ...

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalEuropean Journal of Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateNov 9, 2021

Cellular aging: a basic paradox elucidated

A research team at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre has found that cellular aging is caused by irreversible damage to the genome, not just telomere erosion. This discovery challenges the long-held scientific model and opens up new research opportunities for preventing cellular aging and genomic instability.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

A new model for selling surplus energy from electric vehicles to local grids shows potential savings for V2G users in six major US cities

Researchers at the University of Rochester develop a computational V2G model that accounts for factors not previously considered, showing potential savings of $120-$150 per year for vehicle owners. The model uses data from the US Census Bureau and calculates battery degradation costs based on various variables.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021

Climatic drivers of honey bee disease revealed

A new study has found that increasing temperatures and heavy rainfall reduce the prevalence of Varroa mite disease in UK honey bee colonies, while heavy wind reduces its severity. Climate change is predicted to impact the risk of European foulbrood disease, with a hot spot identified in the South West England.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021

Brain connections have their own tempo

Researchers discovered that neurons forming connections between brain areas share similar genetic programs, but unfold at varying speeds. This tempo-dependent development enables the creation of diversity in neurons without requiring major genetic differences.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateNov 9, 2021

Size matters for bee ‘superorganism’ colonies

Research suggests that larger bee colonies with comfortable food stores are less willing to take risks, while smaller colonies with limited resources are more likely to ignore warning signals. This study provides insights into the complex communication system of bees and its implications for understanding biological collectives.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and related dementias reduces social activity

A recent Rutgers University study found that receiving a new diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias leads to decreased formal and informal social engagement. This can be particularly concerning for disadvantaged populations with limited resources. The study highlights the need for practitioners and policymakers to consi...

SourceRutgers University·JournalDementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2021