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Science News Archive June 2020 - Page 29


Page 29 of 48

Tiny pump builds polyrotaxanes with precision

Researchers developed an artificial molecular pump to install rings onto polymer strings, enabling precise control over ring threading and opening up new possibilities for scratch-resistant coatings and actuators. Polyrotaxanes show promise in soft materials and can be fine-tuned by accurately defining the polymer's structure.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateJun 11, 2020

The mystery of visual stability

A study by Tohoku University's Research Institute of Electrical Communication reveals that visual stability across saccades occurs when parvo-pathway signals suppress magno-pathway signals immediately after a saccade. This finding has implications for AI and robots to perceive the world as humans do.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 11, 2020

New study confirms superiority of open surgery for early-stage cervical cancer

A meta-analysis of 15 studies found that minimally invasive radical hysterectomy for early-stage cervical cancer is linked to a 71% higher risk of recurrence or death compared to open surgery. The study's findings suggest that the benefits of minimally invasive procedures may not outweigh the risks for this specific type of cancer.

Study examines emotional regulation, family history as risk factors for suicidal behavior

A recent study at Nationwide Children's Hospital explores the intersection of parental history of suicidal behavior and emotion regulation in children aged 6-9. The research suggests that early intervention with emotion regulation strategies may decrease the likelihood of risk factors associated with future suicidal behaviors.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·DateJun 11, 2020

An essential sustainable farming practice faces one big limitation: Land to produce seeds

The use of cover crops is increasing globally due to their environmental benefits, such as reducing erosion and improving water quality. However, planting millions of acres of cover crops will require huge extensions of land to produce cover crop seed, posing a limitation to its widespread adoption.

Applying 'magic angle' twistronics to manipulate the flow of light

Monash researchers have successfully applied 'magic angle' twistronics to control the flow of light in extreme ways. By stacking two thin sheets of molybdenum-trioxide and rotating one layer, they observed controllable light waves over a wide range of wavelengths, enabling robust light propagation in tightly focused beams.

A creative way to expand the geriatrics workforce

A study found that an undergraduate service-learning course using music and filmmaking helped students connect with people with dementia, share unique stories, and process new experiences. The creative approach has the potential to humanize dementia and motivate a new generation of healthcare professionals.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 11, 2020

Doing good does you good

A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that regular volunteer work among older adults (50+) significantly reduces mortality risk, improves sense of well-being, and boosts physical activity. However, volunteering did not show direct impact on chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 11, 2020

How Dashcams help and hinder forensics

Researchers from WMG, University of Warwick assessed seven dashcam devices to identify artefacts that can be synthesised using tools such as native video players. The study found that digital forensics faces significant issues in managing and processing dashcam evidence.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalForensic Science International·DateJun 11, 2020