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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 467


Page 467 of 510

The morphological characteristics of precipitation areas affects precipitation intensity

New research links the shape and size of precipitation areas on radar to rainfall intensity. Studies in the Tibetan Plateau show that square-shaped precipitation areas have the highest rain rate, while linear ones have the lowest. This discovery has potential for forecasting precipitation and verifying numerical models.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2021

Deep Vision: Near-infrared imaging and machine learning can identify hidden tumors

Researchers have developed a technology that uses near-infrared hyperspectral imaging (NIR-HSI) along with machine learning to visualize tumors in deep tissue and covered by a mucosal layer. The technique was tested on 12 patients with confirmed cases of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), achieving an accuracy of 86% in identifyi...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2021

Supercomputer in your bedroom

University of Sussex researchers develop a method to turbocharge desktop PCs, allowing for large-scale brain simulations with significant sustainability benefits. This innovation makes it possible for more researchers worldwide to carry out research on brain models, including the investigation of neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalNature Computational Science·DateFeb 2, 2021

Generation of conjunctivae in a dish

Researchers from Osaka University successfully generated functional conjunctival tissue in a dish, enabling the study of conjunctivae and the development of novel drugs for dry eye disease. The newly formed tissue contained goblet cells that produce mucins, mimicking human conjunctival biology.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 2, 2021

Could playing host to hookworms help prevent ageing?

A growing body of evidence suggests that losing helminth parasites could contribute to aging-associated inflammation. Intentional infection with helminths or helminth-derived proteins may have anti-inflammaging properties, potentially preventing age-related diseases such as heart disease and dementia.

SourceeLife·DateFeb 2, 2021

The underestimated mutation potential of retrogenes

A new study reveals that retrogenes, which are inserted into the genome via reverse transcription of mRNA molecules, can have a profound impact on genetic diversity. These retrogenes can act as regulatory mutations, negatively influencing the original gene's mRNA and causing harm to organisms.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2021

Good customer service can lead to higher profits, even for utilities without competition

A study by Indiana University researchers found that satisfied customers mean increased profits for public utilities, despite lack of competition. This is achieved through lower operating costs and increased trust from customers. The findings suggest that regulators should view investments in customer satisfaction as recoverable costs.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateFeb 2, 2021

Almost 30% of advanced manufacturing technologies used in Russia are acquired abroad

A recent study by HSE University researchers found that Russian enterprises rely heavily on imported advanced manufacturing technologies, with only a few organizations developing their own solutions. The demand for domestically developed AMT is increasing, particularly in regions with diversified economies.

'Genetic SD-card': Scientists obtained new methods to improve the genome editing system

Researchers from Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University developed a polymer carrier that can load different sizes and structures of genetic material, including siRNAs and mRNAs. The efficiency of delivery was demonstrated on human stem cells, offering new horizons for non-viral delivery systems.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalParticle & Particle Systems Characterization·DateFeb 2, 2021

How plants stabilize their water pipes

Researchers used genetic engineering to make Arabidopsis thaliana cells form xylem and secondary cell walls, allowing them to observe the formation process. The study revealed that microtubules play a key role in forming patterns, and a protein complex called KATANIN is involved in the timely and orderly formation of secondary walls.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2021

Extreme UV laser shows generation of atmospheric pollutant

Researchers from Hokkaido University have found that ultraviolet light reacts with nitrophenol to produce atmospheric nitrous acid, a key component of photochemical smog. This decomposition process occurs in real-time and involves the distortion of the nitrophenol molecule's shape under extreme UV light.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 2, 2021

What impact did police violence have on participation in the October 1, 2020 referendum?

A recent study by Toni Rodon and Marc Guinjoan found that police violence at polling stations reduced local turnout, but spurred higher participation in surrounding municipalities. The researchers also discovered a 'universal census' law allowed voters to cast ballots anywhere, contributing to the increase in nearby votes.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPolitical Science Research and Methods·DateFeb 2, 2021