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Science News for November 26, 2020


Scientists develop new gene therapy for eye disease

Scientists from Trinity College Dublin have developed a new gene therapy approach that successfully protected the visual function of mice with dysfunctional mitochondria. The treatment also improved mitochondrial performance in human cells with OPA1 gene mutations, offering hope for treating diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateNov 26, 2020

Keyhole wasps may threaten aviation safety

A study published in PLOS ONE found that keyhole wasps at Brisbane Airport were responsible for fully blocking replica pitot probes, which measure airspeed. The researchers emphasize the importance of developing risk-mitigating strategies to address this issue and highlight the potential consequences of not doing so.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 26, 2020

Which factors trigger leaf die-off in autumn?

Researchers at ETH Zurich identified a self-regulating mechanism that limits the productive period of trees, leading to earlier leaf fall. Global warming previously expected to delay senescence, but photosynthesis in spring and summer actually accelerates it.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateNov 26, 2020

A cold-health watch and warning system for cold waves in Quebec

Researchers in Quebec have developed a first-of-its-kind cold-health watch and warning system to predict health risks associated with cold waves. The system considers temperature thresholds that trigger alerts for healthcare professionals, taking into account delays between exposure and observed health impacts.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateNov 26, 2020