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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 509


Page 509 of 510

Super surfaces

The development of programmable metasurfaces at Princeton University has the potential to significantly increase data transmission rates in wireless systems. The technology uses terahertz waves to focus transmissions in specific directions, overcoming challenges such as obstacles and distance limitations. This breakthrough could enable...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Electronics·DateJan 4, 2021

Long live the efficient, pure-blue OLED

Using a new combination of emitter molecules, researchers achieved devices that produce pure-blue emission with high efficiency, maintain brightness for relatively long times, and lack expensive metal atoms. The approach uses a tandem structure to effectively double the emission, leading to nearly doubled lifetime at high brightness.

SourceKyushu University·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 4, 2021

A robotic revolution for urban nature

Researchers assess opportunities to improve nature monitoring, increase access to green spaces, and reduce pollution with robotics. However, they also warn of potential negative impacts on the environment, including waste generation and social inequalities.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 4, 2021

Gas pressure depletion and seismicity

A new study published in Geology has shed light on the mechanisms driving induced subsidence and seismicity in gas-producing sandstone reservoirs. Researchers analyzed drill core samples from the Groningen field, finding evidence of elastic strain plus inelastic compression of weak clay films within grain contacts.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateJan 4, 2021

Supercapacitors challenge batteries

A team of researchers from TUM has developed a highly efficient supercapacitor using a novel, powerful and sustainable graphene hybrid material. The new energy storage device achieves an energy density of up to 73 Wh/kg and performs better than most other supercapacitors at a power density of 16 kW/kg.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 4, 2021

State laws promoting flu vaccination for hospital workers may help prevent deaths from flu and pneum

Research suggests that state laws requiring flu vaccination for hospital workers can reduce pneumonia and influenza mortality rates, particularly among the elderly. A quasi-experimental study found a 2.5% reduction in monthly pneumonia and influenza mortality rates after law implementation, averting approximately 1,822 deaths.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 4, 2021

For moms, oxygen during childbirth often unnecessary

A comprehensive analysis of 16 previous trials found that providing supplemental oxygen to mothers during labor and delivery has no benefit for infant health. The study suggests that the practice could be safely discontinued for many women, potentially reducing unnecessary interventions and healthcare costs.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 4, 2021

Reawakened geyser does not foretell Yellowstone volcanic eruptions, study shows

A new study by geoscientists finds that the reactivation of Steamboat Geyser does not foretell any upcoming volcanic eruptions in Yellowstone National Park. The researchers discovered a relationship between the column height of the geyser and the depth of its reservoir, with deeper reservoirs resulting in higher eruption jets.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2021

Risk of substance use disorder among patients with autism

Patients with autism spectrum disorder in Taiwan showed a higher risk of substance use disorder compared to the general population. The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, used health insurance data to investigate this association and found that individuals with autism were more likely to die prematurely due to substance-related causes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 4, 2021

Fluoride to the rescue?

Scientists at UC Santa Barbara have developed a new approach to addressing the challenge of antibiotic-resistant bacteria by replacing antibiotics with fluoride. The method uses a genetically engineered cell that can survive in the lab but dies when exposed to fluoride, preventing its propagation into the natural environment.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 4, 2021

A polarization-driven guide to making high-performance, versatile solar cells

Researchers from Incheon National University propose a novel solution in the form of antiperovskite oxides, which exhibit spontaneous electric polarization and ideal band gaps for efficient sunlight absorption. This discovery opens up endless possibilities for diverse applications, including wearable devices like smartwatches.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 4, 2021