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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 50


Page 50 of 512

The science of windy cities

A team from Oklahoma State University developed techniques to model environmental hazards for autonomous aircraft, while another group at the University of Surrey investigated building wakes to enhance air quality. Researchers also found an unbalanced exchange flow in natural ventilation systems, which can slow down cooling.

Adverse childhood experiences and at-risk drinking, cannabis, and illicit drug use

Women who experienced at least one adverse childhood experience, such as domestic violence or physical abuse, were more likely to engage in at-risk drinking and illicit drug use. The study highlights the importance of trauma-informed care for urban ER patients, particularly women from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.

SourcePacific Institute for Research and Evaluation·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·DateNov 22, 2020

Remote control of heat nanosources motion and thermal-induced fluid flows by using light forces

Scientists create technique to remotely manipulate heat sources and associated fluid flows using laser light. This enables new functionalities in optofluidics, such as selective delivery of nano-objects and analytes. The method also demonstrates programmable control over optical propulsion forces and fluid streams.

Proteins in motion

Scientists have found that surface diffusion of proteins is more effective at providing proteins to distal dendritic sites, reducing the need for protein production. By optimizing dendritic radii, neurons can reduce their protein synthesis cost by several orders of magnitude.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell·DateNov 21, 2020

Monitoring glaucoma at home

A new study from City University London suggests that glaucoma eye tests can be accurately performed at home using a tablet-based device called Eyecatcher. The study found high accuracy rates (98%) and adherence, with potential to detect rapidly progressing cases of glaucoma earlier.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalAmerican Journal of Ophthalmology·DateNov 20, 2020

Improving quantum dot interactions, one layer at a time

Researchers at Osaka City University have found a way to fine-tune quantum resonance in layered structures of quantum dots, leading to improved charge transport and potential applications in solar cells. The breakthrough involves controlling the distance between quantum dot layers using short ligands and polyelectrolytes.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 20, 2020

For COVID-19 surveillance, test frequency and turnaround time are paramount, modeling suggests

A new study models trade-offs in COVID-19 testing, suggesting that rapid turnaround times and frequent testing have high epidemiological value for effective surveillance. The study found that delays in diagnosing infections had a significant impact on surveillance plans, emphasizing the importance of fast results.

One-way street for electrons

Researchers have observed a one-way street for electrons in a nanomaterial, where conical intersections channel energy in a certain direction with high probability. This phenomenon has implications for the development of more efficient organic solar cell devices and potentially artificial eyes from nanostructures.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 20, 2020

Minuscule migrations

Researchers studied fruit fly ovaries to understand cellular motion, discovering that tissue geometry creates a path of least resistance. The team found that cells choose central paths despite multiple side paths available, and this choice is influenced by the physical space, not just chemical signals.

Gut-brain axis influences multiple sclerosis

A recent study has discovered a link between intestinal flora and inflammation in the central nervous system of patients with multiple sclerosis. IgA B cells play a key role in this process, accumulating in the cerebrospinal fluid and brain tissue during acute flares of the illness.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Immunology·DateNov 20, 2020