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Science News Archive December 2020 - Page 28


Page 28 of 39

More years of obesity means higher risk of disease, study finds

A new study found that individuals with longer durations of obesity are at a higher risk for cardiometabolic disease factors. The duration of obesity exposure between ages 10 and 40 years was associated with worse values for blood pressure, cholesterol, and glycated hemoglobin (blood sugar) measurements.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 8, 2020

Magnetic bacteria as micropumps

Scientists have discovered a way to control the flow of liquids using magnetotactic bacteria, which can be used to transport cancer drugs directly to tumors. The bacteria produce an effect similar to that of a micropump, allowing for precise control over the movement of active substances.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 8, 2020

Understanding COVID-19 infection and possible mutations

Penn State researchers computationally modeled the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 protein spike to ACE2, finding it highly optimized for human binding. The team also explored changes in the virus spike that could alter its affinity with human ACE2, potentially informing future research on vaccine durability and animal transmission.

SourcePenn State·JournalComputational and Structural Biotechnology Journal·DateDec 8, 2020

New definition of sustainability overcomes flaw hampering global transformation efforts

Researchers have developed a new definition of sustainability that recognizes the interdependence of living beings and their wellbeing, expanding the concept to non-human species and their needs. This new approach has wide-ranging applications in fields such as landscape planning and urban greenspace design, aiming to enhance human-wil...

SourceResearch Institute for Humanity and Nature·JournalGlobal Sustainability·DateDec 8, 2020

Studying trust in autonomous products

A Stanford University study reveals that users' moods play a significant role in shaping their trust in smart technologies. The research found that participants trusted devices more when they were in a positive mood, regardless of the experiment's intent. However, user trust also differed by age group, gender, and education level, with...

SourceStanford University·JournalJournal of Mechanical Design·DateDec 8, 2020

A molecule like a nanobattery

Researchers at University of Oldenburg develop complex molecular compound with high electron capacity, revealing new understanding of charge storage in metal centres. The model molecule functions as a 'mini segment of an energy storage material', paving the way for future design elements in molecular catalysts.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalChemPhysChem·DateDec 8, 2020

Risk of serious complications during knee replacement 73% higher when a tourniquet is used

Researchers found that knee replacement surgery using a tourniquet increases the risk of serious complications by 73%, including blood clots, wound infections, and the need for further surgery. Patients who underwent surgery with a tourniquet reported an average 19% more pain after surgery compared to those without.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateDec 8, 2020

Vitamin boosts essential synthetic chemistry

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel method for producing olefins, or alkenes, using vitamin B12 and blue light, eliminating harsh chemicals typically needed in the process. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable production of drugs, agrochemicals, and plastics.

SourceRice University·JournalChemical Science·DateDec 8, 2020

Research reveals how COVID-19 affects the eyes

A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that COVID-19 can cause various eye symptoms, with 16% of respondents reporting sore eyes as a symptom. The researchers argue that sore eyes should replace conjunctivitis as a possible COVID-19 symptom due to its differentiation from other types of infections.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Open Ophthalmology·DateDec 8, 2020

A colossal step for electronics

Researchers at Osaka University have created thin films of neodymium nickel oxide with an electrical resistance that can change dramatically by controlling the distribution of hydrogen ions. This breakthrough could lead to novel switches and potentially entirely new kinds of computer circuits.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 8, 2020

Getting to the bottom of Arctic landslides

Scientists from CNRS and Melnikov Permafrost Institute conduct cold room simulation to demonstrate permafrost's role in soil collapse. Heterogeneous frozen soils with vertical ice wedges undergo major deformation during thawing, accelerating subsidence and greenhouse gas release.

SourceCNRS·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 8, 2020

A standout superalloy

Researchers developed a new class of high-strength, defect-resistant superalloys that can be 3D-printed with minimal material waste. The nickel-based alloys overcome cracking issues in traditional AM processes, making them suitable for complex one-off components in extreme environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2020

Smartphone data shows real-time impact on health

A study by Cornell University researchers found that older adults in NYC are more likely to report fatigue and pain when encountering stressful social environments. The study used smartphone-based data collection to track participants' movements, activities, and emotions.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateDec 8, 2020

Human systems management critical for businesses during COVID-19

Researchers share critical information and solutions to address behavioral challenges posed by the pandemic, including new working models, digital service approaches, and learning strategies. The papers explore various aspects of human systems management, from employee engagement to occupational health and safety.

SourceIOS Press·JournalHuman Systems Management·DateDec 8, 2020

Racial microaggressions contribute to disparities in STEM education

A recent study from University of Illinois researchers found that racial microaggressions contribute to disparities in STEM education programs. Students of color who experience exclusion, invisibility, or isolation on campus are less likely to continue in STEM majors. The study aimed to encourage STEM-related academic programs to addre...