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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 397


Page 397 of 510

Study explores how environmental exposures before conception may impact fetal development

A new report published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests older age and alcohol consumption before conception may alter a specific gene's epigenetic marks, impacting human egg development. The study provides valuable insights into environmental factors affecting gene regulation through epigenetics and imprinting.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021

Gun violence rises in TV dramas over two decades, paralleling U.S. gun homicide trends

Research by the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that gun violence on popular prime-time TV dramas doubled from 2000 to 2018, with gun use substantially increasing and rising significantly as a proportion of the violence depicted in the shows. This trend parallels the rise in U.S. homicide deaths attributable to firearms.

A new satellite-measured "Solar-induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence" (SIF) product aims to improve carbon neutrality research

A new satellite-measured Solar-induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence (SIF) product is introduced to enhance carbon neutrality research. The SIF product, developed using a physical-based algorithm named IAPCAS/SIF, retrieves emission data from two micro-windows within the O2 A-band.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021

Tri-tube heart valve replacement adapts to the growing heart in lambs

Scientists developed a tri-tube heart valve replacement that can regenerate and grow over time, addressing the need for long-term valve replacements in children with congenital heart disorders. The new design showed improved growth dynamics and reduced calcification compared to clinically used bioprosthetic valves.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 17, 2021

Genome scalpel invented for industrial microalgae to efficiently turn CO2into biofuel

Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a 'genome scalpel' to efficiently produce sustainable biofuels from sunlight and CO2 by removing non-essential genes from microalgae. This approach could lead to more efficient production of biomolecules like biofuels, with potential applications in renewable energy and redu...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateMar 17, 2021

IPK scientists: New method for genome assembly in barley provides excellent results

A new method of DNA sequencing using PacBio HiFi sequencing has been successfully applied to assemble the genome of barley with high accuracy and speed. The approach yielded better quality genome sequences compared to other methods, including more complete genes and accurate reassembly of non-coding regions.

Solar cells: Losses made visible on the nanoscale

Researchers used conductive atomic force microscopy to detect tiny channels for dark currents in solar cell surfaces, revealing the loss mechanism at the interface of silicon heterojunction solar cells. The study showed that these channels are caused by disorder in the a-Si:H layer and lead to trap-assisted quantum mechanical tunnelling.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateMar 17, 2021

Three times the gains

A groundbreaking global study maps ocean areas that, if strongly protected, can help solve climate, food and biodiversity crises. The research identified specific regions that could provide multiple benefits, including safeguarding nearly 80% of marine species and preventing the release of one billion tons of CO2 into the ocean.

Artificial light at night may disrupt firefly mating

New research reveals that artificial light at night significantly suppresses courtship activity in fireflies, with bright amber light having the greatest impact on female receptivity. This study highlights the need to minimize outdoor lighting to protect firefly populations.

SourceWiley·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateMar 17, 2021

Christmas Island reptile-killer identified

A silent killer, Enterococcus lacertideformus, has been discovered as the cause of mysterious deaths in native reptile populations on Christmas Island. The bacterium grows in the animal's head and internal organs, causing death through direct contact or biting, highlighting the need for targeted antibiotic trials.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateMar 17, 2021

https://discovery.kaust.edu.sa/en/article/1098/the-right-ring-count-to-harness-waste-heat

Researchers at KAUST have developed electron-transporting, air-stable organic semiconductors that can generate electricity from waste heat. The polymers' unique design enhances electrical conductivity and thermoelectric performance, paving the way for scalable, sustainable energy solutions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 17, 2021

Antibody Mediated Prevention (AMP) trials data published by theNew England Journal of Medicine

The AMP trials tested a broadly neutralizing antibody called VRC01, which was effective at preventing the acquisition of HIV strains in sensitive populations. However, results showed that more than one single bnAb is needed to prevent HIV acquisition, highlighting the need for combination monoclonal antibody cocktails.

SourcePublic Relations Pacific LLC·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2021

Modernizing the naval selection process

The US Navy is developing a virtual reality personality assessment tool to improve recruitment and selection processes. The Manpower and Personnel Assessment Battery (MPAB) will use virtual reality technology, physiological markers, and real-time data analytics to assess applicants' skills and personalities.

Recreational cannabis use among adults in the home is on the rise, but what about the children?

A new study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that cannabis use among adults with children in states where legalization has occurred increased significantly. The study highlights the need for education on protecting youth from secondhand cannabis smoke, which poses health risks similar to tobacco smoke.

Stimulating the immune system to fight cancer

Researchers from Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology have developed a cell-based assay that identifies highly potent IDO1 inhibitors with different mechanisms of action, which could lead to promising immunotherapies for cancer treatment. The new approach overcomes limitations of existing cell-free assays and holds promise for ...

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 17, 2021