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Science News for December 31, 2020


Asian tiger mosquito poses low risk for Zika virus outbreaks

The Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus has been shown to transmit the Zika virus and trigger large outbreaks in a simulated environment. However, experimental studies suggest that the mosquito's infection rate is low, making it unlikely to cause major Zika virus epidemics.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 31, 2020

St Petersburg University scientists discover an ancient island arc in the Kyrgyz Tien Shan

Researchers from St Petersburg University have discovered a complex of rocks forming an ancient island arc in the Songkultau Mountains of Kyrgyzstan, dated to around 500 million years ago. The finding provides valuable insights into the geological history of Central Asia and has implications for understanding large ore deposits.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalGeoscience Frontiers·DateDec 31, 2020

Study points the way to boost immunotherapy against breast cancer, other solid tumors

A new study suggests that adding a small molecule to CAR-T cell therapy can boost the effectiveness of immunotherapy against breast cancer and other solid tumors. Researchers found that the addition of cGAMP activated an immune response, leading to enhanced T cell proliferation and tumor growth reduction.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 31, 2020

Multiple mosquito blood meals accelerate malaria transmission

A study published in PLOS Pathogens reveals that mosquitoes feeding on blood multiple times increase malaria transmission potential, shortening the incubation period and making disease control more challenging. The research suggests that younger mosquitoes with reduced reproductive ability may contribute to infection, undermining curre...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 31, 2020