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Science News for February 3, 2021


Shelf-stable vaccines avoid waste, expand access

Researchers developed a new manufacturing platform using freeze-dried components that can quickly make vaccines on demand. The platform eliminates the need for complex supply chains and refrigeration, making it ideal for low-resource settings. This innovation has the potential to expand access to life-saving medications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateFeb 3, 2021

In vitro study helps explain how Zika virus passes from mother to fetus during pregnancy

A new study by USF Health researchers has discovered that maternal decidual cells act as reservoirs for Zika virus transmission through the placenta. The study also found that tizoxanide can effectively inhibit Zika virus in these cells, offering promise for preventing perinatal transmission and its associated health problems.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateFeb 3, 2021

Computerized adaptive screener may help identify youth at risk for suicide

A new computerized adaptive screener has been developed to identify youth at risk for attempting suicide, correctly identifying 82.4% of youth who went on to attempt suicide in the three months following screening. The screener, CASSY, offers an easy-to-use way for providers to detect youth suicide risk in emergency department settings.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 3, 2021

Research indicates gender disparity in academic achievement and leadership positions

A recent study discovered a significant gap in leadership opportunities for women, particularly mothers, who demonstrate high academic achievement. Despite having similar leadership prospects as fathers with low GPAs, women face barriers in securing promotions due to factors such as household responsibilities and biased promotion pract...

Research looks at the link between procedures and everyday practice in community pharmacy

A recent study published in Applied Ergonomics compared standardized processes for community pharmacists with their real-world practices, revealing a significant gap. The researchers identified four main themes: efficiency, resource availability, thoroughness, and delegating safeguards. Further research is needed to adapt procedures to...

Blink! The link between aerobic fitness and cognition

A study from the University of Tsukuba found that higher spontaneous eye blink rates correlate with improved cognitive function and enhanced executive function in physically fit individuals. The dopaminergic system, involved in physical activity and exercise, plays a crucial role in mediating this link.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateFeb 3, 2021

Stopping intestinal bacteria in their tracks

A research team at Pohang University of Science & Technology has uncovered the mechanism for regulating T cell differentiation via intestinal epithelial cells. This finding highlights the importance of intestinal immune homeostasis and suggests a new role for PD-1 signaling in CD4+ T cell differentiation into intraepithelial lymphocytes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2021

Uncovering recurring deletions in SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that drive antibody escape

Researchers identified recurring deletions in SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that prevent antibody binding, allowing viruses to evade the immune system. The study analyzed nearly 150,000 gene sequences and found instances of viruses with these deletions, which have repeatedly arisen in genetically distinct viruses worldwide.

CABI study updates safer options for fall armyworm control in Africa

A recent CABI study has updated the list of potential biopesticide active ingredients for managing fall armyworm in Africa, with 41 products now registered across 30 countries. The review highlights the efficacy of eight additional biological control agents, including Aspergillus oryzae and thyme oil.

SourceCABI·JournalJournal of Applied Entomology·DateFeb 3, 2021

Research identifies more sustainable, cost-effective approach to treating citrus canker

Researchers have developed a more sustainable approach to treating citrus canker, which reduces copper usage by up to 80%. The new technique involves using less water and copper, resulting in lower costs and environmental impact. By adopting this method, citrus growers can minimize the risk of developing copper-resistant strains.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateFeb 3, 2021

Digital health divide runs deep in older racial and ethnic minorities

A study by Florida Atlantic University found a deep digital health divide among older adults of African American, Afro-Caribbean, Hispanic American, and European American backgrounds. Factors contributing to this disparity include age, education level, income, and ethnic group affiliation. The researchers emphasize the need for univers...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateFeb 3, 2021

First images of muon beams

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new imaging technique that can assess the quality of high-energy muon beams. This innovation allows for better understanding and control of these beams in various applications such as non-destructive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and cancer radiotherapy.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 3, 2021

Hypoxia, a feature inside solid cancer tumors, reprograms methylation of ribosomal RNAs

Researchers found that hypoxia upregulates RNA polymerase I activity and alters ribosomal RNA methylation patterns, leading to the creation of specialized ribosomes that can differentially regulate translation of specific messenger RNAs. The study supports a long-debated postulate that ribosomal protein factories can be reprogrammed in...

True identity of mysterious gamma-ray source revealed

A team of researchers used novel data analysis methods and Einstein@Home computing power to track down a neutron star's gamma-ray pulsations in NASA's Fermi Space Telescope data. The study reveals the existence of a rapidly rotating neutron star in orbit with a stellar companion about six times the mass of our Sun.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 3, 2021

Inside the battery in 3D: Powerful X-rays watch solid state batteries charging and discharging

A research team observed the internal evolution of materials inside solid-state lithium batteries as they charged and discharged using ultrabright X-rays. The detailed 3D information may help improve reliability and performance of the batteries, which use solid materials to replace liquid electrolytes in existing lithium-ion batteries.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 3, 2021

New piezoelectric material remains effective to high temperatures

A new piezoelectric material developed by Penn State researchers remained effective at elevated temperatures, allowing for the creation of self-powering sensors and energy harvesters. The material performed well beyond 482 F (250 C), enabling potential applications in aerospace, automotive, and wearable devices.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateFeb 3, 2021

Study suggests environmental factors had a role in the evolution of human tolerance

A new study published in Journal of Archaeological Method and Theory suggests that environmental pressures played a key role in the evolution of human tolerance. The research found that populations which shared resources were more likely to succeed and survive harsh environments, leading to long-term benefits for everyone involved.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Archaeological Method and Theory·DateFeb 3, 2021

European hibernating bats cope with white-nose syndrome which kills North American bats

Researchers found that European greater mouse-eared bats have sufficient baseline levels of key immune parameters to tolerate infection throughout hibernation. In contrast, North American bats frequently arouse from hibernation to trigger an immune response, leading to starvation and death.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalDevelopmental & Comparative Immunology·DateFeb 3, 2021

What the Biden-Harris administration means for chemistry

The Biden-Harris administration aims to create research and development opportunities in clean energy and switch the US to cleaner sources. Climate change policies and updates to regulations will also be prioritized to protect public health from toxic substances. Immigration reform may lead to more scientific collaboration and access f...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 3, 2021

Thoughts on plant genomes

The sequencing of plant genomes has accelerated significantly, with over 181 horticultural species now sequenced. These advancements have provided new insights into the inheritance of traits and evolutionary aspects of various plant species, including fruit development and ripening. The data will benefit future research projects and pr...

Politicians must be held to account for mishandling the pandemic

A senior editor at The BMJ argues that politicians' inaction during the pandemic amounts to 'social murder' and demands accountability through legal and electoral means. The BMJ editorial calls for citizens to lobby their representatives for a public inquiry and for professionals to speak out against negligent leaders.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 3, 2021

Solving a puzzle

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) affects millions worldwide, causing cysts and benign tumors to form in the kidney, leading to kidney failure. Researchers led by Dr. Manoocher Soleimani found that changes in cells lining the collecting ducts are responsible for cyst formation, offering new avenues for potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2021

Ostriches challenged by temperature fluctuations

Research reveals that ostriches face reproductive challenges when temperatures deviate by 5 degrees from ideal conditions, affecting up to 40% egg production and gamete release. A small proportion of females thrive in extreme temperatures, sparking hope for genetic adaptation as a potential solution.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 3, 2021

Intranasal influenza vaccine spurs strong immune response in Phase 1 study

A new intranasal influenza vaccine demonstrated a durable immune response in a Phase 1 study, producing higher antibody levels compared to oral vaccination. The vaccine induced mucosal immunity and neutralizing antibodies at 26 weeks after vaccination, with sustained protection lasting up to five years.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 3, 2021

Research highlights the need to incorporate nutritional counseling in cancer treatment

Research reveals that American adult cancer survivors often face barriers to healthy eating, with significant disparities observed across sociodemographic factors. A Mediterranean-style diet may reduce overall cancer risk for women, but not for men, highlighting the importance of personalized nutrition interventions in cancer care.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateFeb 3, 2021

Impact of spokesperson identity on sharing of public health messages

Participants in an international survey study reported greater willingness to share COVID-19 messages from a prominent expert versus a celebrity. The researchers found that endorsement by the celebrities was less likely to prompt willingness to share than endorsement by a government official, or no endorsement at all.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 3, 2021

More mammals are being struck by aircraft each year

The study found that bats accounted for the greatest proportion of strikes in Australia, while rabbits and dog-like carnivores dominated Canada, Germany, and the UK. Average mammal strikes per year ranged from 1.2 to 38.7 across countries, with estimated annual costs exceeding $100 million.

SourceWiley·JournalMammal Review·DateFeb 3, 2021

How does pain experienced in everyday life impact memory?

A new study found that healthy individuals experiencing everyday pain show deficits in working memory due to increased activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Pain intensity was directly associated with worse performance on a working memory task, while certain aspects of emotional distress were not linked to impairments.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateFeb 3, 2021

The business of bees

Research finds economic dependence of US crops on insect pollination totaling $34 billion in 2012, with areas producing 80% of value relying on poor pollinator habitats. The study identifies key areas that need improved pollinator habitat to mitigate declining bee populations.

3D-printed bioresorbable airway stent

A team of ETH Zurich researchers has developed a 3D-printed bioresorbable airway stent that can be customized to a patient's anatomy. The stents, made from a specially designed resin, are biocompatible and gradually dissolve after implantation.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 3, 2021

Senolysis by glutaminolysis inhibition ameliorates various age-associated disorders

A collaborative research group identified an inhibitor of the glutamate metabolic enzyme GLS1 that selectively eliminates senescent cells in vivo. Administration of GLS1 inhibitors to aged mice removed senescent cells from various organs, ameliorating tissue dysfunction and age-related diseases such as obese diabetes and arteriosclerosis.

Tactile books adapted for blind children

Researchers have developed tactile books with 3D mini-scenarios that allow blind children to explore and identify objects using gestures and body simulations. This innovative approach has been shown to narrow the perception gap between blind and sighted children, enabling them to recognize objects more easily.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 3, 2021

On the dot: Novel quantum sensor provides new approach to early diagnosis via imaging

Scientists developed a novel quantum sensor that can detect oxidative stress in organs during MRI scans, which could lead to early diagnosis of diseases like cancer and kidney dysfunction. The sensor uses a ring-shaped sugar-like compound and nitroxide derivatives to identify reduced cell/tissue capacity.