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Science News Archive May 2021 - Page 36


Page 36 of 47

Chill out: Advanced solar tech runs cooler and lasts longer

Researchers have made a breakthrough in photovoltaics technology by developing tandem cells and singlet fission processes that reduce operating temperatures and extend device lifetimes. This innovation leads to a 2%-4% gain in annual energy production and doubles the lifetime of devices for every 10°C reduction in temperature.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalProgress in Photovoltaics Research and Applications·DateMay 10, 2021

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Non-hospitalised COVID-19 patients have low-risk of serious long-term effects, but report more visits to general practitioner following infection

A new study found that non-hospitalised SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals have a low risk of severe delayed effects, but still reported increased visits to general practitioners and outpatient clinics. The research highlights the need for clinicians to manage potential long-term conditions.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMay 10, 2021

Soft sensors are first to comprehensively monitor pregnant women without wires

Researchers have developed soft sensors that comprehensively monitor pregnant women without wires, providing more precise data on vital signs, physical movements, and laboring positions. The devices offer improved comfort and freedom of movement, while also increasing the reliability of data collected during labor.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2021

Self-learning robots go full steam ahead

Researchers created a system of small autonomous robots that teach themselves to move forward as quickly as possible by continuously conducting small experiments. The results showed that this simple self-learning robot can tackle new situations and recover from damage, making it robust and scalable for applications in soft robotics.

SourceAMOLF·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2021

Single-cell map of early stage lung cancer and normal lung sheds light on tumor development, new therapeutic targets

Researchers created a spatial atlas of early-stage lung cancer and normal lung tissue at single-cell resolution, providing insights into tumor development and immune cell interactions. The study identified CD24 as a new immunotherapy target for lung cancer treatment, correlating with poor clinical outcomes and shortened survival.

Once we're past the fear stage, where do we place the blame for the COVID-19 pandemic?

A study published in Social Psychological Bulletin found that Polish adults blamed the government more for COVID-19 incidence rates than personal responsibility or anxiety levels. Political views played a significant role in attributing blame, with liberal-leaning individuals blaming the government more than conservatives.

SourceSocial Psychological Bulletin·JournalSocial Psychological Bulletin·DateMay 10, 2021

New study finds an association between increasing BMI and the risk of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2

Research reveals that as body mass index (BMI) increases, the risk of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 also rises, especially among overweight and obese patients. The study analyzed data from over 26,000 patients tested for COVID-19 at a major medical center in Israel and found significant associations between BMI and viral infection risk.

Cricket bats should be made from bamboo not willow, Cambridge study finds

Bamboo cricket bats offer improved performance, including increased strength and energy transfer, according to a recent University of Cambridge study. The research also highlights the potential environmental benefits of using bamboo, as it is more sustainable and requires less waste during manufacture than traditional willow.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Part P Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology·DateMay 9, 2021

New Strep A human challenge model paves the way to test vaccines against the deadly bacteria

A new Strep A human challenge model has been successfully developed, paving the way to test vaccines against the common deadly bacteria that causes sore throats, scarlet fever and skin sores. The model, which deliberately infected healthy adult volunteers with the bacteria in a controlled environment, was found to be safe and effective.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateMay 9, 2021

Higher BMI in childhood may help protect women against breast cancer in later life, both before and after the menopause

A Danish study of over 173,000 women found that girls with a higher BMI during childhood had lower breast cancer risks both before and after menopause. The research suggests an inverse association between childhood BMI and breast cancer risk, but further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms.

Exercise can help support recovery of patients with lasting COVID symptoms, study finds

Researchers found significant improvements in exercise capacity, respiratory symptoms, fatigue, and cognition in patients with lasting COVID symptoms after a six-week supervised rehabilitation programme. The study suggests that exercise can be a vital part of patient-centred approaches to treating lingering COVID symptoms.

SourceNational Institute for Health Research·JournalChronic Respiratory Disease·DateMay 7, 2021