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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 113


Page 113 of 512

Penn Medicine scientists engineer bacteria-killing molecules from wasp venom

Scientists at Penn Medicine have engineered bacteria-killing molecules from toxic proteins found in wasp venom, which could help combat antibiotic-resistant infections. The new antimicrobial molecules work by disrupting bacterial membranes and summoning immune cells, showing promise as potential treatments for sepsis and tuberculosis.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 12, 2020

Scientists report role for dopamine and serotonin in human perception and decision-making

Researchers recorded real-time changes in dopamine and serotonin levels in patients' brains during tasks, revealing that serotonin levels increased with uncertainty and decreased with confidence. The study provides insight into how dopamine and serotonin regulate perception, decision-making, and cognition, potentially leading to improv...

Engineers print wearable sensors directly on skin without heat

Researchers developed a novel technique to produce high-performing biometric sensors by printing them directly on human skin at room temperature. The sensors can capture precise temperature, humidity, blood oxygen levels, and heart performance signals, and are environmentally friendly, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin.

SourcePenn State·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 12, 2020

Dueling proteins give shape to plants

In a new study, researchers have identified the molecular mechanism behind two key proteins that influence plant form and timing of developmental transitions. The study reveals an antagonistic relationship between Terminal Flower 1 (TLF1) and Flowering Locus T (FT) proteins, which promote branch formation and flowering, respectively.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 12, 2020

Making disorder for an ideal battery

Researchers at Université de Genève develop non-flammable solid electrolyte that operates at room temperature, transporting sodium instead of lithium. The new battery technology has potential to store more energy and is being used to create a new generation of stable and powerful batteries.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateOct 12, 2020

Proactive steps linked to reduced medical costs, hospital visits for children with asthma

A new study from North Carolina State University found that several widely available interventions are associated with reduced medical costs and a lower likelihood of emergency room visits or hospitalizations for children with asthma. The interventions include asthma self-management education, flu vaccine, spacer use, and nebulizer use.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Asthma·DateOct 12, 2020

How consumers responded to COVID-19

The study identifies four threats that affect consumer behavior, including health, economic, social, and misinformation threats. Consumers have shown adaptive responses to these challenges, such as switching to online streaming services or making their own hand sanitizer.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 12, 2020

Applying information theory to landscape art

A statistical approach analyzing 14,912 Western paintings reveals spatial composition patterns that can distinguish between artists and style periods. The study found that compositional features shifted over time, with dominant horizons changing in location during the Rococo, Romantic, Realism, Impressionism, and 20th century periods.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 12, 2020

Customers prefer partitions over mannequins in socially-distanced dining rooms

A study by the University of Houston found that consumers prefer dining rooms with partitions between tables due to their perceived cleanliness, visual attractiveness, and comfort. Surprisingly, older respondents (over 40) were more willing to visit establishments with partitions, rating both options equally comfortable and welcoming.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateOct 12, 2020