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Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences


Rethinking visual awareness

Research on brain-damaged patients with distorted perception reveals neural processing can occur despite lack of awareness. The study's findings have significant implications for theories of human visual awareness and suggest a reevaluation of the relationship between complex cognitive processing and awareness.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2020

Aging and socioeconomic status

A study found that lower socioeconomic status accelerates decline in physical functions such as grip strength and gait speed, as well as cognitive abilities like memory and processing speed. Social circumstances also impact mental health, with less wealthy individuals experiencing more depressive symptoms and sight problems.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2020

Vaccination and moral obligation

Researchers discovered that vaccinated participants were less generous to non-vaccinated individuals than to other vaccinated peers, especially among those who viewed vaccination as a moral duty. This suggests that vaccination is perceived as a societal obligation, transcending social group affiliations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2020

Beetle-inspired cooling film

A new photonic film inspired by fluffs on the longicorn beetle can reflect up to 95% of incoming solar radiation and emit infrared energy, achieving up to 5.1° C of passive cooling in direct sunlight. The film's efficiency is a breakthrough for efficient passive radiative cooling applications.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2020

Gender gap in postsecondary education

Research by Gijsbert Stoet and David Geary found that men are less likely to pursue tertiary education due to weaker reading abilities and negative attitudes towards women attending college. The study analyzed data from 18 countries, predicting a significant drop in male representation if discriminatory attitudes were eliminated.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020