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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 2


Page 2 of 45

Bioinformatics tool accurately tracks synthetic DNA

A new bioinformatics tool called PlasmidHawk has been developed by Rice University researchers to track the origin of synthetic genetic code. The tool uses a sequence alignment-based approach and was found to outperform recent deep learning approaches in lab-of-origin prediction, achieving 76% accuracy.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2021

Measuring the tRNA world

Researchers have developed a method to quantify transfer RNAs (tRNAs) in cells, which can reveal insights into tRNA regulation in health and disease. The mim-tRNAseq approach accurately measures tRNA abundance and modification status, enabling the study of tRNA dynamics in different tissues and during development.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 26, 2021

Household transmission of SARS-CoV-2

Researchers used electronic medical records to estimate SARS-CoV-2 transmission risk and identify risk factors for household transmission. The study found that addressing in the home address could be used to predict transmission risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 26, 2021

How housing discrimination affects environmental inequality

A University of Illinois study reveals racial discrimination in the home-renting process actively sorts minority renters into neighborhoods with higher levels of pollution. This leads to disparities in residential pollution exposures and contributes to health issues like respiratory illnesses and stress.

New signaling pathway in neurons

Researchers have identified a new signaling pathway that regulates the production of RNA-protein complexes in neurons, which are overproduced in neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS and senile dementia. This discovery may lead to better understanding and potential therapeutic options for these conditions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 25, 2021

Perceived discrimination makes black females more likely than males to exercise, eat healthy

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that black women and girls are more likely to engage in exercise and eat healthy when faced with discrimination. The study suggests that optimism plays a role in this positive response, contrasting with avoidant coping strategies seen in less optimistic individuals.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateFeb 25, 2021

Study suggests greater need for grief support due to COVID-19

A recent study by Curtin University found that people grieving a COVID-related death require timely support to reduce challenges in everyday life. The research identified key psychological factors such as separation distress, dysfunctional grief, and post-traumatic stress as contributing to these difficulties.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of Pain and Symptom Management·DateFeb 25, 2021