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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 111


Page 111 of 512

Cameras that can learn

Researchers from the University of Bristol and Manchester have developed cameras that can learn and process visual information in real-time, eliminating the need to record and transmit images. This breakthrough enables intelligent machines to perceive the world more efficiently and securely.

Evolution: No social distancing at the beginning of life

A recent study challenges traditional views of bacterial life, finding that biofilms exhibit characteristics similar to animal embryogenesis. Researchers discovered that bacteria follow a developmental pattern, with stage-organized architecture and increased use of multicellularity genes, similar to those found in animal development.

SourceRuđer Bošković Institute·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 13, 2020

Well-formed disorder for versatile light technologies

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel approach to frequency doubling in nonlinear crystals, utilizing disordered nanocrystals to achieve efficient light conversion. The method, which combines two seemingly irreconcilable approaches, enables wide-range frequency tuning and minimizes material usage.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 13, 2020

'Less pain' to remove tonsils

A 10-year study from Flinders University has found that removing only a portion of the tonsil can significantly reduce pain and bleeding after surgery. Children who underwent this partial removal procedure returned to normal activities in under half the time compared to those who had their entire tonsil removed.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery·DateOct 13, 2020

Television advertising limits can reduce childhood obesity, study concludes

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that restricting television advertising for food and beverages high in fat, sugar, and salt could lead to a significant reduction in childhood obesity rates. The research suggests that limiting ads between 5:30am and 9pm could result in a 4.6% decrease in obese children, equivalent to 40,000...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 13, 2020

Alcohol use changed right after COVID-19 lockdown

A study of twins found that one in four adults changed their alcohol use almost immediately after stay-at-home orders were issued, with 14% reporting higher levels of stress and anxiety. The study suggests a link between decreased drinking and increased mental health issues, highlighting the need for better support.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateOct 13, 2020

Winners and losers of energy transition

A new UNIGE study models 100 feasible scenarios to achieve Central European electricity sector targets by 2035. The research highlights trade-offs between cost-efficiency, renewable electricity, and regional equality, suggesting a compromise is possible to share costs and benefits evenly across regions.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2020

Trees and lawns beat the heat

A new study from the University of Utah reveals that mixed landscapes, comprising both trees and grass, are the most effective way to cool temperatures in the Salt Lake Valley. Lawns actually outperform trees in reducing daytime and nighttime temperatures by acting as a swamp cooler, while more open areas allow for better heat escape.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAgricultural and Forest Meteorology·DateOct 13, 2020

Empathy prevents COVID-19 spreading

A new study published in Psychological Science reveals that empathy is a key factor in preventing the spread of COVID-19. The research shows that individuals with higher empathy levels are more likely to keep their distance and wear face masks to protect vulnerable populations.

SourceAarhus University·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 13, 2020

Illinois research links soil nitrogen levels to corn yield and nitrogen losses

Researchers establish relationship between soil nitrogen at different growth stages and corn yield, finding a tradeoff between productivity and environmental impact. Soil nitrogen explains majority of grain yield variation, with optimal levels resulting in 22% yield increase.

Bacterial toxin with healing effect

A study by the University of Jena found that a toxic substance from Staphylococcus aureus stimulates immune cells to produce anti-inflammatory messenger substances, reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing. The researchers also demonstrated that these substances promote tissue regeneration in an animal model.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 13, 2020