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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 372


Page 372 of 510

Dual-bed catalyst enables high conversion of syngas to gasoline-range liquid hydrocarbons

Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics developed a dual-bed catalyst that achieves highly efficient and selective conversion of syngas to gasoline-range liquid hydrocarbons. The catalyst showed excellent stability, with selectivities of C5-11 and C3-11 in the hydrocarbon products reaching 80.6% and 98.2%, respectively.

Probiotics keep calves healthy, too!

Scientists at Hokkaido University developed a novel probiotic formulation to control severe diarrhea in calves, reducing mortality and economic loss. The probiotic supplement was tested on newborn calves and found to be effective in preventing bovine diarrhea caused by BRV and cryptosporidiosis.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalVeterinary Microbiology·DateApr 1, 2021

Poor judgment of autistic adults

A new study found that autistic adults are often misjudged due to stereotypical behaviors, leading to disadvantage in the legal system. The researchers argue that these behaviors can be misinterpreted by judges and juries, resulting in harsher sentences for autistic individuals.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateApr 1, 2021

Flowers!

Asteroid impact led to 45% plant extinction and paved the way for modern tropical rainforests. Plant diversity took over 10 million years to recover after the impact, with flowering plants dominating ecosystems.

2D materials for conducting hole currents from grain boundaries in perovskite solar cells

Researchers have developed a novel method to improve photovoltaic performance in perovskite solar cells by modifying grain boundaries with 2D materials. The modifications lead to enhanced carrier mobility and stability, even under certain conditions where grain boundaries are favorable for device performance.

Cohesive circuit protection for wearable electronics

A new cellulose nanofiber coating offers enhanced water resistance for flexible electronic devices, allowing them to withstand hundreds of bending cycles and underwater exposure. The coating's unique properties make it an ideal solution for medical devices used in emergency disaster response situations.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateApr 1, 2021

Pollen season in Switzerland earlier and more intense due to climate change

A study analyzing pollen data from 1990 to 2020 found that the pollen season has shifted substantially over the past 30 years, with some species starting as early as January. This increase in duration and intensity can lead to more severe health issues, including inflammation in the lungs and negative impacts on the cardiovascular system.

SourceSwiss Tropical and Public Health Institute·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 1, 2021

Origin of modern rainforests traced to end-Cretaceous asteroid impact

A recent study reveals that the end-Cretaceous asteroid impact drastically restructured tropical forests, leading to a decline in plant diversity and the emergence of angiosperms. The findings suggest that the impact's long-term effects on tropical ecosystems were variable, depending on proximity to the crater and local conditions.

Polarized photovoltaic properties emerge

Scientists have found a way to create polarity and photovoltaic behavior in non-photovoltaic 2D materials by arranging them in a special way. The resulting effect is different from traditional solar cells and shows promise for future solar panel improvements.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021