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Science News for January 30, 2020


Sustainable 3D-printed super magnets

Scientists at TU Graz have successfully manufactured super magnets with high relative density and controlled microstructures using 3D printing technology. The developed process enables efficient material use by tailoring magnetic properties according to the application, making it a promising alternative to rare earth metals.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalMaterials·DateJan 30, 2020

Research zeroing in on electronic nose for monitoring air quality, diagnosing disease

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a method to computationally design the optimal gas sensor array using metal-organic frameworks. This enables the creation of an electronic nose for detecting air pollutants and diagnosing diseases by measuring gases in a patient's breath. The framework assesses how well different co...

SourceOregon State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 30, 2020

If it takes a hike, riders won't go for bike sharing

New Cornell research reveals that bike-share systems often deter users due to long distances between docking stations. The study recommends creating denser networks with smaller stations and increasing bike availability to grow ridership. Placing stations near grocery stores provides the most benefit, according to the findings.

SourceCornell University·JournalManagement Science·DateJan 30, 2020

Your gums reveal your diet

A new study suggests that a diet rich in sugar increases the risk of both dental cavities and gum inflammation. Healthy eating habits should be prioritized to avoid expensive treatments.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Oral Microbiology·DateJan 30, 2020

Those who believe that the economic system is fair are less troubled by poverty, homelessness, and extreme wealth

A recent study published in Nature Communications found that individuals who believe in a fair economic system exhibit reduced negative emotions when confronted with poverty, homelessness, or extreme wealth. The research suggests that system-justifying beliefs buffer against aversion to inequality, allowing people to better cope with e...

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2020

The Lancet: Cervical cancer could be eliminated in countries worst affected by the disease, and 62 million women's lives could be saved by 2120

Two new studies quantify the potential for eliminating cervical cancer in 78 low-income and lower-middle income countries, proposing measures to avert 74 million cases and 62 million deaths over the next century. The proposed triple intervention strategy of HPV vaccination, cervical screening, and treatment could reduce mortality by up...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 30, 2020

Solving the riddle of strigolactone biosynthesis in plants

Researchers at Kobe University discovered the orobanchol synthase responsible for converting non-canonical strigolactone carlactonoic acid into canonical strigolactone orobanchol. This breakthrough enables artificial regulation of plant growth and weed germination, with potential applications in improving crop production and mitigating...

SourceKobe University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 30, 2020

Patterns in the brain shed new light on how we function

Scientists have identified recurring patterns in brain neurons that can be used to explain their behavior and function, paving the way for creating artificial intelligence that mimics the human brain. By understanding these patterns, researchers aim to develop new treatments for neurological disorders and improve current technology.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 30, 2020

In Cuba, cleaner rivers follow greener farming

A joint Cuba/US research team discovered that Cuban fertilizer pollution is significantly lower than in the US's Mississippi River, with much lower phosphorus and nitrogen levels. The study suggests improved management strategies to reduce animal manure and sediment loads could further improve central Cuban river water quality.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalGSA Today·DateJan 30, 2020

Rapid weather swings increase flu risk

Researchers found that rapid weather variability, common in warming climates, can kick-start the flu season and lead to densely populated areas experiencing high contagion rates. The study suggests incorporating environmental factors into flu spread models may improve predictions of future epidemic severity.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 30, 2020

Likelihood of e-book purchases increase 31% by combining previews and reviews

Research reveals that consumers leverage a combination of e-book previews and reviews when making purchasing decisions, resulting in a 31% increase in purchase likelihood. The study found that exposure to both previews and reviews significantly influenced consumer behavior, whereas individual components had limited impact.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateJan 30, 2020

A quantum of solid

Scientists have isolated and cooled a nanoparticle in a solid, achieving macroscopic quantum control for the first time. By removing thermal energy and isolating the particle from its environment, researchers successfully cooled the glass bead to ultra-cold temperatures near absolute zero.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience·DateJan 30, 2020

Researchers combine X-rays and laser light to image sprays

A new laser-based method combines X-rays and laser-induced fluorescence to observe and quantify atomizing spray phenomena, providing details on the sprayed liquid's form and distribution. The technique can detect smaller amounts of liquid than previously detected with x-rays and has the potential to study sprays in real-time.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJan 30, 2020

Autonomous vehicles could benefit health if cars are electric and shared

The study found that autonomous vehicles can reduce road accidents and promote physical activity, but the impact depends on factors like technology implementation and fuel use. If implemented correctly, autonomous vehicles could have a significant positive impact on public health, especially if used in electric and shared formats.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalAnnual Review of Public Health·DateJan 30, 2020

The first roadmap for ovarian aging

Researchers analyzed ovarian cells from young and old non-human primates to understand ovarian aging. They identified genes that could be used as biomarkers and point to therapeutic targets for diagnosing and treating female infertility and age-associated ovarian diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateJan 30, 2020

Study provides first look at sperm microbiome using RNA sequencing

A new study provides the first in-depth look at the human sperm microbiome using RNA sequencing. The researchers found that non-targeted sequencing of human sperm RNA can identify micro-organisms such as bacteria and viruses, offering a potential diagnostic tool for microbial status and fertility assessment.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalJournal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics·DateJan 30, 2020

Autonomous microtrap for pathogens

Scientists have developed a self-propelled chemical trap to corner and destroy pathogens in body fluids, reducing the need for antibiotics. The device uses a magnesium metal engine propelled by hydrogen bubbles, trapping bacteria with an acid-soluble polymer cage that releases a toxin to kill them.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 30, 2020

What makes fear decrease

A study by Professor Grit Hein found that the presence of an unknown person can reduce anxiety and physiological tension in individuals. The effect was strongest when the test subject perceived the other person as less similar to themselves.

Can exercise improve video game performance?

A new study found that a single bout of intense cardiovascular exercise can improve video game performance. The research, led by Dr. Marc Roig, challenged the idea that video gaming and physical activity are antagonistic activities. Exercise was shown to benefit players regardless of their fitness level or emotional response.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJan 30, 2020

A consensus statement establishes the protocols to assess and report stability of perovskite photovoltaic devices

A new consensus statement has been established to assess and report the stability of perovskite photovoltaic devices. The agreement aims to improve reproducibility in studies by providing a set of testing procedures specific to this technology, including light-dark-cycling and intrinsic stability testing.

Families give high marks to parenting supports 'for refugees, by refugees,' study finds

A new intervention program developed by Boston College researchers in partnership with Bhutanese and Somali communities reports high rates of satisfaction and engagement from refugee families. The study found improved child mental health and family functioning outcomes, including reduced traumatic stress reactions and depression symptoms.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJan 30, 2020

Cooperation after eye contact: Gender matters

The study, conducted at FiraTàrrega market in Tàrrega, Spain, found that women are more likely to cooperate and have a better understanding of their partner's intentions. Men, on the other hand, tend to be more impulsive and less cooperative when interacting with someone of the same gender.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 30, 2020

Cells' springy coils pump bursts of RNA

Researchers at Rice University have developed a theoretical model explaining how RNA polymerase enzymes trigger bursts of RNA production in cells. The model suggests that DNA supercoils, like springs, are involved in the process, with RNA polymerases compressing and releasing tension to regulate protein production.

SourceRice University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJan 30, 2020