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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 39


Page 39 of 45

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