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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 15


Page 15 of 41

Composite metal foams take the heat, move closer to widespread applications

Researchers at North Carolina State University have demonstrated that composite metal foams can withstand extreme temperatures, passing the simulated pool fire test with flying colors. The material's performance was predicted using a model developed by the team, which showed accurate results within 10 degrees Celsius.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Thermal Sciences·DateMar 19, 2020

Seductive details inhibit learning

A meta-analysis of 58 studies involving over 7,500 students found that seductive details can lower learning outcome measures. The analysis suggests that students' attention is diverted towards irrelevant information, leading to decreased performance. However, good details can still engage students if they are pertinent to the topic.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEducational Psychology Review·DateMar 19, 2020

Nurse practitioner clinical settings key to delivery of patient-centered care

A new study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that organizational supports for nurse practitioners enhance their ability to deliver patient-centered care. NPs working in good practice environments were more likely to integrate patient preferences into care compared to those in mixed or poor environments.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalThe Journal for Nurse Practitioners·DateMar 19, 2020

Social policies might not only improve economic well-being, but also health

A comprehensive review of US social policies found that early life and education interventions can reduce smoking by 8%, while income support and health insurance programs show the most promise in improving population health. However, some studies showed no health impact, highlighting the need for careful policymaking.

Compact beam steering studies to revolutionize autonomous navigation, AR, neuroscience

Researchers have developed a low-power beam steering platform that enables scalable optical systems for ultra-small LiDAR on autonomous vehicles, AR/VR displays, trapped-ion quantum computers, and optogenetics. The technology reduces power consumption while maintaining operation speed and broadband low loss.

Distortion isn't a drag on fluid-straddling particles

A team of researchers found that drag forces experienced by particles straddling interfaces between un-mixable fluids are less affected by the shape of the distortion. The study's discovery could have implications for self-assembling properties of various species, including nano- and microparticles, proteins, and other molecules.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 18, 2020

Three-drug combination reduces COPD patient mortality

A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine reports that a three-drug combination of fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol reduces all-cause mortality by 42% in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) treated with an inhaler once daily.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 18, 2020

Heatwaves risky for fish

A recent study found that heatwaves have varying effects on different fish species, with some struggling more than others. The research tracked changes in gene expression in five coral reef fishes before, during, and after a severe marine heatwave, revealing species-specific responses to the heightened temperatures.