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Science News for March 11, 2021


Firefly tourism takes flight, sparking wonder and concern

A comprehensive review reveals the benefits of firefly tourism, including economic and social gains, but also highlights threats to local firefly populations. The authors urge site managers, tour guides, and tourists to adopt tailored conservation practices and promote eco-friendly behavior to protect these charismatic creatures.

SourceTufts University·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateMar 11, 2021

50 new genes for eye colour

A large-scale genetic study has identified 50 new genes associated with human eye color, significantly expanding the current understanding of this complex trait. These findings will help improve diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases such as pigmentary glaucoma and ocular albinism.

SourceKing's College London·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 11, 2021

Researchers set new resolution record for imaging the human eye

A new imaging method has been developed that can capture high-resolution images of photoreceptors in the human eye, overcoming resolution limitations imposed by light diffraction. The technique uses annular pupil illumination and sub-Airy detection to enhance microscopy techniques for earlier detection and treatment of eye diseases.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateMar 11, 2021

With masks on, three feet is just as safe as six feet apart in Massachusetts schools

A statewide study in Massachusetts public schools found no significant difference in COVID-19 case rates between districts with 3-foot versus 6-foot physical distancing policies with universal mask mandates. The study suggests that lower physical distancing policies can be adopted without negatively impacting student or staff safety.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 11, 2021

Standard vital signs could help estimate people's pain levels

A new study shows that machine-learning strategies can be applied to routinely collected physiological data to provide clues about pain levels in people with sickle cell disease. The researchers found that these vital signs give clues into the patients' reported pain levels, outperforming baseline models.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

How to make all headphones intelligent

Researchers develop HeadFi, a plug-in headphone adapter that transforms regular headphones into sensors for user identification, heart rate monitoring and gesture recognition. The invention shows promise in upgrading existing headphones without requiring new hardware or customization.

Scientists discover cellular stress enzyme that might play key role in neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have discovered a cellular stress enzyme called MARK2 that controls protein synthesis in response to types of stress or damage seen in neurodegenerative disorders. The finding suggests that MARK2 may play a key role in diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS.

Hyperpolarized proton MRI used to observe metabolic processes in real time

A new hyperpolarized proton MRI method has been developed by researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and the Helmholtz Institute Mainz. This technique uses parahydrogen to track biochemical processes in real-time, enabling the observation of metabolic processes without the drawbacks of existing hydrogen-based imaging methods.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 11, 2021

Fossilized feeding frenzy

A 47-million-year-old fly fossil found in Vienna revealed that flies played a significant role in ancient pollination. The fly's stomach contents showed pollen from various plant species, suggesting its importance in pollen dispersal and biotic interactions.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

Female snowy plovers are no bad mothers

In snowy plover species, females often abandon their broods to mate with new partners, a behavior that may be beneficial for parental reproductive success. The study found that females desert their broods primarily due to poor environmental conditions or when chicks have a good chance of survival without them.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateMar 11, 2021

Fatal police violence nearby increases risk of preterm birth

A new study by researchers at UCSF found that fatal police violence near a pregnant woman's home increases the risk of preterm birth. The study analyzed records of 3.8 million pregnant women and found that deaths due to police violence, particularly among Black victims, were strongly associated with moderate or late preterm delivery.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPaediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology·DateMar 11, 2021

Pain hides in our data

Researchers developed an AI algorithm to mine physiological data from patients with chronic pain, detecting changes in pain levels and atypical fluctuations. The study aims to provide a more precise treatment method by supplementing subjective pain assessments with objective data-driven approaches.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

Modulation of photocarrier relaxation dynamics in two-dimensional semiconductors

The review article discusses modulation strategies for 2D semiconductors, including Coulomb interaction modification and influencing factors like initial photocarrier distribution and phonon-assisted relaxation. Researchers aim to provide guidance for developing robust methods tuning photocarrier relaxation behaviors.

Mapping the best places to plant trees

The Reforestation Hub is an interactive map that color-codes individual counties by reforestation opportunity, revealing a great deal of potential for restoration across the US. The tool identifies trends and quantifies land suitability for forest cover, providing valuable insights for foresters and policymakers.

SourceCell Press·JournalOne Earth·DateMar 11, 2021

Contactless high performance power transmission

A team of physicists at TUM has developed a coil with superconducting wires capable of transmitting power in the order of more than five kilowatts without significant loss. The researchers optimized the distance between individual windings to achieve a higher power density, paving the way for exciting application areas such as industri...

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity·DateMar 11, 2021

Healthy Diet Index supports diet quality assessment and dietary counselling in healthcare

The Healthy Diet Index is a tool developed by Finnish nutrition experts to assess diet quality. It was found to associate with the intake of energy nutrients, fibre, and several vitamins and minerals, and to be linked to lower body mass index, waist circumference, and blood glucose levels in both men and women.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 11, 2021

Cheaper carbon capture is on the way

A new solvent, EEMPA, has been developed that captures carbon dioxide at a cost of $47.10 per metric ton, surpassing commercial technology's $58.30 per metric ton. The solvent is water-lean and 99% less viscous than previous formulations, allowing it to be easily applied in existing capture systems.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateMar 11, 2021

After cracking the "sum of cubes" puzzle for 42, researchers discover a new solution for 3

After solving the sum of cubes puzzle for 42, researchers found a new solution for 3 using an optimized algorithm that utilized mathematical 'sieving' techniques. The discovery suggests there may be infinitely many more solutions for other values of k, with the next solution involving gigantic 21-digit numbers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

Simultaneous multicontrast OR-PAM from single laser source

Researchers developed a multiwavelength OR-PAM system based on a single laser source, enabling simultaneous multicontrast imaging of hemoglobin concentration, blood flow speed, blood oxygen saturation, and lymphatic concentration. This innovation shortens imaging time and improves accuracy for functional imaging in biological tissues.

Deforestation favors an increase in the diversity of antibiotic-resistant soil bacteria

A study found that deforestation in the Amazon leads to an increase in antibiotic-resistant soil bacteria, with a larger number of genes and molecular mechanisms detected in deforested areas than in forested ones. The researchers warn that these microorganisms can pose a significant public health risk if they reach humans.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·DateMar 11, 2021

Capturing all of light's data in one snapshot

Researchers at Duke University and other institutions are developing a 'super camera' capable of capturing all types of information carried by light, including polarization, depth, phase, coherence, and incidence angle. The project aims to create an imaging system that can handle sensing and processing simultaneously, streamlining size...

Researchers boost potency of an HIV-1 antibody, tracing new pathways for vaccine development

Scientists have identified a promising antibody that can effectively fight HIV-1 by tracing new pathways for vaccine development. The study found that the binding strength of the antibody is directly correlated to its ability to neutralize HIV-1, and researchers discovered genetic mutations that enhance the antibody's potency against d...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

ADHD: Aggressive behavior is genetically coded

Researchers have found genetic variants increasing ADHD risk and aggressive behavior in children, shared with the general population. These variants affect aggression in both children with and without ADHD, highlighting a complex interplay between genetics and environment.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 11, 2021

New clinical method could lower risk of recurring heart attacks

Researchers at Lund University developed a new examination method using NIRS and IVUS, which identifies high-risk plaques that cannot be seen with traditional angiograms. The study found that over 14% of treated patients experienced heart disease recurrence within four years, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 11, 2021

CHOP researchers find ribosome assembly essential for stem cell regeneration

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have identified genes responsible for hematopoietic stem cell regeneration via ribosome assembly. This finding enhances our understanding of the importance of proper ribosome assembly in stem cell regeneration and identifies possible targets for future therapies for ribosomopathies, ch...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 11, 2021

Lithium chloride promotes recovery of radiation-induced oral mucositis and dysgeusia

Researchers investigated the use of lithium chloride to promote restoration of oral mucosa integrity and taste function after radiation. The study found that LiCl alleviated weight loss and tongue ulceration while promoting epithelial cell proliferation and inhibiting transition in tongue mucosa.

Paleontology: Microscope helps with dinosaur puzzle

Researchers from the University of Bonn have developed a new method to identify and separate individual dinosaur fossils by analyzing bone tissue. By examining the growth patterns, vascularization, and annual rings in fossilized bones, scientists can now determine whether a particular bone belongs to a specific animal or skeleton.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPalaeontologia Electronica·DateMar 11, 2021

Preterm birth, prolonged labor influenced by progesterone balance

A new study found that unbalanced progesterone signals may cause preterm labor or prolonged labor in pregnant women. The researchers used genetically engineered mouse models to alter the ratio of PGR-A and PGR-B signaling in the uterus, identifying key biological pathways influenced by both forms.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

Air pollution: The silent killer called PM2.5

The study found that many regions with high air pollution don't measure PM2.5 levels and have weak standards, while places like Canada and Australia have strict enforcement. High population density is not a barrier to fighting air pollution successfully, as seen in countries like Japan and Singapore.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateMar 11, 2021

Computing clean water

Computational models predict solute-surface affinity, allowing for more effective membrane design and improved energy efficiency. Researchers discovered that surface water molecular structures play a crucial role in determining affinity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

Laser-driven experiments provide insights into the formation of the universe

Researchers have captured the time history of magnetic field growth in a lab setting using laser-driven experiments. The findings suggest that turbulent dynamo mechanism amplifies magnetic fields rapidly, exceeding theoretical expectations and potentially explaining the origin of large-scale fields in galaxy clusters.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

New tool to dissect the "undruggable"

Researchers at Harvard University have designed a new highly-selective tool to study proteins that are difficult to target with drugs, known as 'undruggable' proteins. The tool uses a nanobody to add or remove specific sugars from proteins, providing a detailed understanding of their function.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

The secrets of the best rainbows on Earth

Researchers found that Hawaii's location in the subtropical Pacific, combined with its mountains and clean air, create an ideal environment for frequent rainbow sightings. The new RainbowChase app, developed by Dr. Steven Businger, uses Doppler radar data and satellite images to alert users of favorable conditions.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateMar 11, 2021

Climate change influences river flow

A recent study by ETH Zurich reveals that climate change has a globally visible influence on rivers, with complex patterns emerging worldwide. The research analyzed data from 7,250 measuring stations and found that river flow changed systematically between 1971 and 2010.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

New analysis of 2D perovskites could shape the future of solar cells and LEDs

Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed a new analysis of 2D perovskites, which could improve the stability of next-generation solar cells and LEDs. By combining lead with tin, they were able to reduce toxic lead quantities and tune key properties, leading to enhanced performance in photovoltaics and light-emitting diodes.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 11, 2021

A monumental particle accelerator in the Cygnus Cocoon

The Cygnus Cocoon is found to be the most powerful of our galaxy's known natural particle accelerators, with photons recorded from energies up to one hundred teraelectronvolts. The HAWC observatory detected this phenomenon, suggesting that protons accelerated in stellar winds could be responsible for high-energy gamma photon emission.

Changing defaults can have a significant and lasting effect

Research at ETH Zurich found that defaulting to green electricity increased demand by over 80% in private households, with a significant impact on business customers as well. Despite higher costs, the majority of customers stuck with green options, demonstrating the lasting effect of default settings.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMar 11, 2021

Arbitrary polarization conversion dichroism metasurfaces for full Poincaré sphere polarizers

Scientists have proposed an effective approach to achieve full Poincaré sphere polarizers in one step using monolayer metasurfaces with arbitrary polarization conversion dichroism. The system can generate an arbitrarily polarized beam at any position on the Poincaré sphere, making it a monolithic arbitrary polarization generator.

Polarization: From better sunglasses to a better way of looking at asteroid surfaces

Researchers at the Arecibo Observatory have developed a technique to analyze radar signals bounced off asteroids' surfaces, providing crucial information on their physical properties. This method can help planetary defense prepare for asteroids on a collision course with Earth by identifying porous, fluffy, or rocky surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateMar 11, 2021