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Science News Archive June 2021 - Page 39


Page 39 of 51

How COVID-19 wreaks havoc on human lungs

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed an atomic-level model of the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein bound to a human lung-cell-junction protein. The findings reveal how the virus causes extensive lung damage by hijacking cell-junction proteins, leading to a cytokine storm and promoting viral spread.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

From burglar alarms to black hole detectors

Physicists propose an experiment using entangled quantum systems in free fall to detect movements and test if gravity is a quantum phenomenon. The system can also be used to detect space debris, tectonic movements, and burglars, with potential applications for early earthquake warnings and movement sensors.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJun 8, 2021

Osteoporosis detection by a simple physical function test

Researchers at Shinshu University Hospital developed a novel method to detect untreated osteoporosis through a low-cost, physical function test during routine health checks. The test measures two-step distance and body height to identify high risk individuals. Proper treatment can help avoid serious fractures and reduce mobility issues.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·DateJun 8, 2021

Absorbent aerogels show some muscle

Researchers at Rice University have developed a simple chemical process to create light and highly absorbent aerogels that can take a beating. The aerogels, which are customizable in shape and size, showed superior remediation properties compared to traditional COF powders.

SourceRice University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJun 8, 2021

Researchers improve western North Pacific tropical cyclone intensity forecasts using the logistic growth equation

A new forecasting method has been developed to improve TC intensity forecast skill, providing more precise 5-7 day forecasts for coastal regions of East Asia. The logistic growth equation-based approach outperforms conventional methods, offering potential for forecasting rapid intensification and weakening.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 8, 2021

UN: More harmful algal bloom impacts emerge amid rising seafood demand, coastal development

A global assessment report by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission found that reported Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) events have increased in some regions, while decreasing or holding steady in others. The study highlights the need for more research on the linkages between HABs and growth of the aquaculture industry.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 8, 2021

Study shows how taking short breaks may help our brains learn new skills

Researchers found that during rest, the brain rapidly replays compressed versions of previously practiced activities, strengthening memories and improving subsequent practice sessions. This study suggests that wakeful rest plays a crucial role in learning new skills and may be used to facilitate rehabilitation from stroke.

New study: Developers' skills and top management commitment lead to Agile project success

A new study by Associate Professor Daniel Russo highlights the importance of strengthening developers' social and technical skills for Agile project success. The study also emphasizes the critical role of top management commitment in providing an adequate organizational setting.

SourceDepartment of Computer Science, Aalborg University·JournalACM Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology·DateJun 8, 2021

Preventing plant disease pandemics

Plant diseases can spread globally without borders, threatening food security. Researchers call for a One Health approach to safeguard staple crops from pandemic outbreaks.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2021

Early endeavors on the path to reliable quantum machine learning

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new approach to prove the robustness conditions of certain quantum-based machine learning models, guaranteeing reliable results. The team's work explores protection against errors and hackers, paving the way for more accurate and trustworthy quantum machine learning applications.

SourceETH Zurich·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateJun 8, 2021

Atom swapping could lead to ultra-bright, flexible next generation LEDs

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new technique that enables the creation of ultra-bright, flexible LEDs with improved efficiency and low cost. By swapping one out of every thousand atoms, they tripled the luminescence of halide perovskites, which could be useful for low-cost printable and flexible LED lighting.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 7, 2021