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Science News Archive October 2016 - Page 11


Page 11 of 44

Flexible optical design method for superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors

Researchers at NICT have developed a flexible optical design method for superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, enabling high detection efficiency over a precise spectral range while rejecting other wavelengths. This technique has potential applications in quantum cryptography, fluorescence spectroscopy, and remote sensing.

Development of a new thermoelectric material for a sustainable society

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology have successfully synthesized a new thermoelectric material, CaMgSi, with sufficient size and thermoelectric properties comparable to those of previously developed materials. The material exhibits both n- and p-type conductivity, making it suitable for power-generation modules.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateOct 24, 2016

Creeping gel

A new type of gel has been developed that periodically swells and shrinks to model the waves of muscular contraction and relaxation involved in crawling. The gel responds to light, producing two types of crawling motion, similar to those used by land snails, earthworms, and limpets.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 24, 2016

Choline deficiency during pregnancy influences milk composition in sows

Researchers found that choline deficiency during pregnancy alters choline metabolite profiles, fatty acid compositions, and amino acid levels in sow milk. This study provides new insights into the importance of choline for human development and highlights the need for mandatory fortification programs to address this nutrient deficiency.

'Middle England' faces lowest psychosis risk

A new study suggests that 'Middle England', a group of affluent, older white British people living in rural areas, face the lowest risk of developing psychosis. The research found that people from more urban and deprived communities are at a higher risk of experiencing their first episode of psychosis.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateOct 24, 2016

Growing stem cells on a chip

A team of researchers has created a microfluidic device that allows for the growth of human pluripotent stem cells in optimal, three-dimensional conditions. This technology enables fine-tuning of the culture environment and creates an ideal artificial microenvironment for hPSC analysis.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateOct 24, 2016

Robotic tutors for primary school children

Researchers developed an integrated computational architecture to detect emotional states and provide pedagogic interventions with robot tutors, aiming to improve learning outcomes. The platform was tested on two primary school volunteers, showing that children preferred the robot tutor but still required human guidance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateOct 24, 2016

Vitamin A orange maize improves night vision

A new study found that vitamin A-biofortified orange maize significantly improves visual functions in children, particularly in night vision. The study used a portable device to measure pupil response and showed improved adaptability to low-light conditions within six months.

SourceHarvestPlus·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateOct 24, 2016