Researchers developed a methodology to analyze properties of different microalgae species for selection as an energy source, considering biological, economic, and environmental aspects. The study found nine types of microalgae, particularly diatoms, are most promising for biodiesel production.
Researchers found that the COVID-19 virus can survive on surfaces for hours due to a nanometer-thick liquid film clinging to the surface. This survival time is orders of magnitude longer than typical respiratory droplet drying times, emphasizing the need for frequent disinfection and heating surfaces.
Researchers found that face masks made of hybrid polymer materials can filter particles efficiently while cooling the face. Consistent mask-wearing by at least 70% of the public could lead to the eradication of COVID-19 if efficient masks are used, according to epidemiological studies.
Researchers developed graphene-coated nickel, cobalt, aluminum nanoparticle cathodes to improve lithium-ion battery performance, reducing degradation mechanisms and increasing energy density. The new design showed low impedance, high rate performance, and long cycling lifetimes.
Researchers used computer simulations to study the interaction between plasma jets and biological tissue. They found that biomaterial-like surfaces can lead to multiple reflections of the plasma jet, increasing the number of electrons and radicals, which play a role in wound healing, antimicrobial drugs, and cancer therapy.
Researchers developed a high-throughput approach to analyze interactions between materials and viruslike particles, identifying competitive adsorbents of Lassa and Rubella viruses. The study aims to expand to SARS-CoV-2 and evaluate viral infectious lifetime on the materials.
Scientists have found a way to characterize the degree of quantumness in physical systems, which is essential for understanding quantum computing and sensing advantages. By analyzing extrema states, researchers identified a mathematical representation called Majorana constellation, which covers more of the sphere as quantumness increases.
The article discusses how modeling pandemic infection rates is flawed due to unforeseeable changes in social distancing efforts. Experts argue that plateauing or peaking do not imply predictable future trends. Lockdowns and social distancing reduce infections, but do not cause them to peak.
The Acoustical Society of America will hold its 179th meeting entirely online from December 7-11, bringing together interdisciplinary groups of scientists to discuss their latest research. The conference includes sessions on COVID-19, sound and smell, and more.
Researchers used conductive fillers like single-walled carbon nanotubes to improve battery performance. The study found that combining NCM electrodes with as little as 0.16% by weight of SWCNT produced good electrical conductivity.
Researchers found that cold atmospheric plasma can kill the novel coronavirus on surfaces such as plastic, metal, and leather within 30 seconds. The treatment uses argon-fed plasma and has been shown to be effective against other viruses like SARS-CoV-2.
Research by Matthew Staymates found N95 masks with exhalation valves ineffective at filtering respiratory droplets. Masks without valves block most droplets, making them a more effective choice for disease prevention.
Researchers tracked the dispersion of large, medium, and small airborne cough droplets under different wind speeds and environmental conditions. They found that evaporated droplets can travel further due to increased viral loading, posing a higher risk of infection when inhaled deep into the lung.
Certain molecules bind to ice surfaces, halting further growth and acting as natural antifreeze agents. Researchers developed a computational method to model ice binding, which has applications in cryopreservation and climate modeling.
Researchers discovered that squid jet propulsion can be more efficient when considering turbulent flow conditions, revealing clues about how squids maneuver within these environments. The study found symmetry-breaking instability of vortices around the jetter, which affects thrust production and efficiency.
A new model predicts the photovoltaic industry can meet Paris Agreement targets with 70-80 terawatts of cumulative capacity from solar cells by 2055. The industry needs to increase production rate by a factor of 30 within 10 years, driven by productivity improvements and material sustainability.
Researchers developed feasible approaches for durable perovskite photovoltaics by addressing internal instability, chemical degradation, and environmental factors. Compositional engineering and bonding passivation are promising methods to improve device durability.
Researchers found that aerosol microdroplets, the tiny particles lingering in the air, contain less virus than larger droplets produced during coughing or sneezing. This reduces the risk of infection in well-ventilated spaces.
Researchers developed a model to assess the relative risks of airborne transmission of COVID-19, finding that physical distancing increases protection in a linear proportion. The study also suggests that simple cloth masks can significantly reduce the spread of the virus and that increased physical activity increases transmission risk.
Researchers estimate COVID-19 cough cloud volume and droplet distribution in closed spaces with and without face masks. The study found that the cloud volume without a mask is 7 times larger than with a surgical mask and 23 times larger than with an N95 mask.
Researchers found that opening windows increases particle exit by nearly 40% and reduces aerosol transmission between students. Glass droplet screens in front of desks also significantly reduced particle transmission.
A computational study of Ebola's nucleocapsid reveals how ssRNA encapsulation stabilizes the virus, maintaining its structural integrity. The model includes all atoms and ions essential for the helical assembly, providing insights into the virus's ability to infect and replicate.
Researchers found that AI techniques are being used to process information about brain structure and connectivity, assess surgical candidacy, and predict disease trajectory. However, they emphasize the need for explainable algorithms to ensure trust in algorithmic prescriptions or diagnoses.
Researchers have developed core-sheath polymer fibers that combine strength with bioactivity, enabling various biomedical applications. The fibers can be tailored to specific needs by carefully selecting inner and outer layer materials, and can even include antiviral agents or drugs.
Scientists developed compact solid-state pulse generators that can produce electrical pulses of less than one billionth of a second in duration and up to 50 billion watts in power. This breakthrough sets the groundwork for new applications in fields such as high-power microwave electronics and X-ray imaging devices.
Joel L. Lebowitz, director of the Center for Mathematical Sciences Research at Rutgers University, has been awarded the 2021 Dannie Heineman Prize for Mathematical Physics for his significant contributions to nonequilibrium statistical mechanics. His work investigates how macroscopic systems behave dynamically in a nonequilibrium state.
Recent advancements in experimental tools and multiscale modeling have improved understanding of hydrogen's location in ferritic steels under mechanical loading. Various techniques, including atom probe tomography and secondary ion mass spectrometry, show promise in determining the embrittlement process.
Researchers discovered pine needle fibers are better at shedding water than circular fibers, retaining less moisture. This evolution is advantageous as it prevents photosynthesis from being blocked by rainwater.
Researchers studied the effects of relative humidity, environmental temperature, and wind speed on coronavirus transmission. They found that evaporation is a critical factor in virus survival and concentration, with high temperatures and low relative humidity reducing virus viability.
Researchers have developed a method to break down thick biomass material using microwave pulses, reducing viscosity and breaking polymer chains. The plasma-liquid interaction forms reactive species that help degrade biomass, making it easier to produce biogas.
A team of researchers from Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and Pohang University of Science and Technology developed a lubricant-infused slip surface to reduce friction in ships. They found that larger open areas lead to a more slippery surface, while lid thickness has little effect on slip.
Scientists have developed peptide-based nanotubes that can be used to create efficient energy harvesting systems. By controlling the alignment of the tubes and incorporating graphene oxide, they improved conductivity and increased current output.
A young star, HL Tauri, is producing planets from its concentric rings made of gas and dust. Research by Mayer Humi provides a study target for protoplanetary ring theories around stars, shedding light on the creation of solar systems.
Researchers identify a key viral protein with potential drug targets, revealing unique protonation mechanisms that could lead to broad-spectrum antiviral treatments. Small shifts in pH may alter the enzyme's shape, allowing for more effective treatment options against COVID-19 and other coronavirus diseases.
Researchers have developed a method to recharge N95 masks, restoring their 95% filtration efficiency and enabling smart masks. The technique exploits electrostatics-based materials, allowing for easy charge replenishment using a battery or washing machine, making it suitable for various air filtration applications.
Researchers at Rutgers University are exploring the link between uncontrolled inflammation and microglial cells in the brain, aiming to develop new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. The team is designing nanomedicines that can target microglia to tamp down inflammation and protect neurons.
Researchers developed a combination treatment using gas embolization and chemotherapy, achieving tumor regression and reducing regrowth in hepatocellular carcinoma models. The method is less invasive and more precise than traditional treatments.
Researchers found that face shields and masks with exhalation valves are less effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 than cloth or surgical masks. The study used visualizations to show how droplets can pass through the valve unfiltered, making these masks ineffective.
A membrane-based invention can concentrate virus content from urine or saliva samples, allowing for early detection of COVID-19. The technique is promising for pregnancy testing as well, with a sample analysis time of just five minutes.
Researchers developed a layered glass material allowing for acoustic propagation without air ventilation. The decorated window comprises ordinary glass, resulting in an inexpensive and optically transparent material.
Scientists have developed a paper-based mechanical memory board by folding paper using the Kresling pattern, generating a switch that can be controlled using vibrations. By placing multiple switches on a single platform, researchers created a functioning mechanical memory board with wide applicability for future device development.
Researchers found N95 masks reduce cough spread to 0.1-0.25 meters, while uncovered coughs can travel up to 3 meters, and cloth masks can bring spread down to 0.5 meters
Researchers discovered that food-grade polymers can completely eliminate aerosolization of saliva droplets in dental settings. The polymers' viscoelastic properties restrict water aerosolization by creating snakelike strands that pull droplets back, preventing aerosolization.
Researchers developed a compact Trace Vapor Generator for Explosives and Narcotics, which can accurately generate trace vapors of low vapor pressure compounds. The device is portable and can be used for non-contact sampling, providing a stable vapor for several hours.
Researchers investigated the impact of temperature on solar and wind energy production in Australia, finding small annual changes but significant effects during peak temperature days. The study aimed to inform electricity sector planning for reliability in different climate conditions.
Flushing public restrooms can spread virus-laden particles, including COVID-19. Researchers found that urinal flushing releases more than 57% of particles into the air, with some reaching thighs within 5.5 seconds.
Researchers modelled how airflow and humidity affect exhaled droplets containing virus particles. They found that high humidity extends the airborne lifetime of medium-sized droplets, allowing them to travel further before falling to the ground.
Higher temperatures can improve cleansing, but beyond a point, decrease efficiency; optimal cleansing found at 45C with fixed power consumption
By 2245, digital information is predicted to outnumber atoms on Earth, transforming the planet into a 'mostly computer simulated' world. Current data storage densities suggest this could happen in approximately 150 years.
Researchers found that making masks and PPE with hydrophilic surfaces can reduce the drying time of droplets, cutting COVID-19 infection risk in half. A superhydrophobic surface requires more extreme modification to achieve optimal results.