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Science News for February 2, 2021


Addressing power differences may spur advantaged racial groups to act for racial equality

Research suggests that communicating openly about group differences in power can motivate advantaged racial groups to join historically disadvantaged racial minority groups to strive for racial equality and social justice. A UMass Amherst study tested this proposition, supporting the idea that greater communication about power differen...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalInternational Journal of Intercultural Relations·DateFeb 2, 2021

Researchers design next-generation photodetector

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new approach to quantum device design, producing the first gain-based long-wavelength infrared photodetector using band structure engineering. The advanced photodetector offers enhanced sensitivity for next-generation LWIR photodetectors and focal plane array imagers.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateFeb 2, 2021

Researchers create novel photonic chip

A digital-to-analog converter has been developed without leaving the optical domain, enabling high-speed data processing with low power consumption. This innovation has the potential to advance next-generation data centers, 6G networks, artificial intelligence and more.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAdvanced Photonics Research·DateFeb 2, 2021

Modeling the brain during pain processing

A new study published in EPJ B reveals that inhibitory interneurons make up 20% of the brain's circuitry required for pain processing. The researchers used graph theory to model the brain's complex networks, uncovering a specific configuration of interneurons crucial for modulating information transmission.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateFeb 2, 2021

Toward safer steroids: Scientists devise method for improving safety of drug used to treat COVID-19, autoimmune disorders and more

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute devised a method to separate beneficial anti-inflammatory properties from unwanted side effects in glucocorticoid drugs. Two new compounds show steroidal anti-inflammatory action with specific traits, including boosting muscle supply and reducing risk of muscle-wasting.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 2, 2021

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

Tracking cells with omnidirectional visible laser particles

Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Peking University introduce a novel technique for tracking individual cells using omnidirectional visible laser particles. The innovative method reduces orientation-dependent intensity fluctuations, allowing for blinking-free tracking of single cells under complex biological conditions.

Yale researchers develop injection to treat skin cancer

Researchers at Yale University have developed an injection treatment for skin cancer that uses polymer-based nanoparticles carrying chemotherapy agents. The treatment's bioadhesive properties allow it to kill cancer cells and stimulate the immune system, potentially eliminating the need for surgery.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2021

The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health: 40% of countries show no progress in reducing cigarette smoking in adolescents over last 20 years

A study of over 1.1 million adolescents from 140 countries found that cigarette smoking decreased in 80 countries but remained unchanged or increased in 60 countries between 1999 and 2018. Other tobacco products like chewing tobacco and e-cigarettes also showed increased use in many countries.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateFeb 2, 2021

COVID-19 lockdowns temporarily raised global temperatures

Research led by NCAR found that COVID-19 lockdowns caused a slight warming effect on the planet, with temperatures rising by 0.2-0.5 degrees Fahrenheit in some regions. The study highlights the complex influence of aerosol emissions on climate, which can either cool or warm the planet depending on the type and amount.

Fine tuned: adjusting the composition and properties of semiconducting 2D alloys

Researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have successfully created 2D Si-Ge alloys with adjustable electronic properties. By adjusting the composition of these materials, they can fine-tune their band structure to suit various applications, opening doors for new electronics innovations.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateFeb 2, 2021

Providing inclusive care for LGBTQ2SPIA+ cancer patients

Researchers found that healthcare professionals have knowledge gaps when caring for LGBTQ2SPIA+ cancer patients, affecting their ability to provide emotional support and tailored care. The study concludes that patient-centered care requires specific resources and education for radiation therapists.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2021

Changes in economic prosperity, cardiovascular mortality

A study from 2010 to 2017 found that increased economic prosperity was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular mortality among middle-age U.S. adults. The researchers analyzed county-level data, revealing a significant positive correlation between economic growth and cardiovascular health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 2, 2021

NYUAD researchers propose programming to support adolescent mothers in areas of conflict

A bioecocultural approach aims to address the needs of adolescent mothers and their young children in conflict-affected contexts, considering neuroendocrine development during adolescence. The framework proposes culturally anchored peer engagement, continued education, and child care support to break intergenerational cycles of poverty.

SourceNew York University·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateFeb 2, 2021

South Africa: the rising temperatures will cost up to 20% of per capita GDP

A recent study predicts that climate change in South Africa will lead to a 20% decrease in per capita GDP by the end of the century. The researchers analyzed data on temperature changes and labor availability, finding that low-skilled workers are disproportionately affected, leading to a closing wage gap but reduced overall output.

Taking the fear out of driver education

A new study published in Risk Analysis found that fear-based Virtual Reality films depicting violent collisions lead to increased risk-taking among young drivers. In contrast, positively framed VR films result in the greatest reduction in risky driving behavior. This suggests that a positive approach may be more effective in promoting ...

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateFeb 2, 2021