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Science News Archive December 2020 - Page 27


Page 27 of 39

Microbes and plants: A dynamic duo

Certain bacteria living in sorghum roots work together with the plant to reduce drought stress, leading to overall plant success. The microbiome plays a critical role in determining crop productivity, and manipulating it may hold the key to developing crops that can thrive in harsh conditions.

Weathered microplastic particles, readily internalized by mouse cells, may pose a greater risk than pristine ones

Research suggests that weathered microplastic particles are 10 times more likely to be internalized by mouse cells than pristine particles. The formation of a biomolecular crust on the surface of microplastics enhances their ability to be engulfed by cell membranes, potentially leading to inflammation and health risks.

Exercise may protect bone health after weight loss surgery

A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that exercise can help minimize bone loss after weight loss surgery. Participants who attended structured exercise sessions had higher bone mineral density measurements compared to those in the control group.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateDec 9, 2020

New evidence: Neandertals buried their dead

A team of researchers has found evidence that Neandertals buried their dead, with a two-year-old child discovered at the Ferrassie site in France. The discovery dates back to around 41,000 years ago and provides new insights into the burial practices of our ancient relatives.

SourceCNRS·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 9, 2020

Researchers: drop the notion that more hours spent studying guarantees higher educational quality

A new study at the University of Copenhagen found that increased study hours do not necessarily lead to better educational outcomes. Students reported spending time on tasks without feeling engaged or retaining information. The researchers suggest qualitative surveys to better understand study engagement and quality.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalSociological Research Online·DateDec 8, 2020

Algorithms and automation: Making new technology faster and cheaper

Penn State researchers have created an automated process planning software to optimize additive manufacturing, reducing design time and material waste. The software uses algorithmic mapping of designs from CAD software to AM to minimize unnecessary steps, enabling faster production and lower costs.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Additive and Subtractive Materials Manufacturing·DateDec 8, 2020

New study allows regional prediction of uranium in groundwater

A new regional model predicts uranium contamination in California's Central Valley aquifers based on calcium concentrations and soil alkalinity. The study suggests that water managers can forecast solutions by including data about soil properties when generating aquifer vulnerability maps for naturally occurring contaminants like uranium.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 8, 2020

Predicting epilepsy from neural network models

A new study published in EPJ B reveals how complex dynamics in branching networks of neurons can be predicted to trigger episodes of epilepsy. The team's findings could lead to the development of better early warning systems for patients.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateDec 8, 2020

COVID-19: persistent symptoms in one third of cases

Physicians from the University of Geneva followed nearly 700 people with SARS-CoV2, finding that 33% still reported symptoms like fatigue, loss of smell or taste, and shortness of breath six weeks after diagnosis. A specific consultation for long COVID patients has been set up to improve care.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 8, 2020

An honored inventor

Terry Papoutsakis, University of Delaware professor and Unidel Eugene Du Pont Chair, was named a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors. He holds over 16 patents and contributes to sustainable manufacturing and human health through his work on microbial engineering tools.

Eyebuy: Sweeping glances can cost you money

Researchers found that customers who were shown product images on a display before shopping walked significantly more miles in the store and made double the number of unplanned purchases. A simple tip is to avoid wandering glances with the support of a shopping list.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 8, 2020

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Confirmed COVID-19 cases and outbreaks were low in schools and nurseries in England that re-opened after the first lockdown

Research found COVID-19 cases and outbreaks were extremely low in schools and nurseries in England during the summer of 2020. Outbreaks correlated strongly with local infection rates, highlighting the importance of controlling community transmission to protect educational settings.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateDec 8, 2020