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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 10


Page 10 of 42

A nice day for a quantum walk

Scientists at Osaka University have successfully demonstrated a quantum random walk using trapped ions, which may lead to new quantum simulations of biological systems. The technique relies on precise control of individual ions and can help resolve open questions in chemistry and biology.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 25, 2020

Inexpensive retinal diagnostics via smartphone

A study by the University of Bonn shows that smartphone-based fundus imaging can detect diabetic retinopathy with high accuracy, even in early stages. The method allows for efficient screening and diagnosis, enabling trained laypersons to examine patients, reducing hospital visits.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalOphthalmology·DateMay 25, 2020

Chirality-assisted lateral momentum transfer for bidirectional enantioselective separation

Researchers design an experiment to demonstrate chirality-dependent optical lateral force on microparticles, achieving robust bidirectional sorting and reversible optical lateral forces. The study opens new avenues for direct detection and sorting of microparticles with imperceptible chemical differences.

uOttawa researchers discover new sex hormone

Researchers at the University of Ottawa have discovered a new sex hormone in zebrafish that regulates sexual behavior and reproduction. The hormone, secretoneurin peptide, was found to restore sexual function in genetically modified fish by increasing hormone release and enhancing ovulation.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2020

Efficient generation of relativistic near-single-cycle mid-infrared pulses in plasmas

Scientists have developed a new scheme to generate near-single-cycle mid-infrared pulses in plasmas, achieving conversion efficiencies of up to 30%. The method uses two terawatt-level short-pulse lasers incident into an underdense plasma channel, producing a tunable mid-infrared pulse with millijoules of energy.

Towards visible-wavelength passively mode-locked lasers in all-fibre format

Researchers have developed a visible-wavelength passively mode-locked all-fibre laser, generating picosecond pulses at 635 nm. The laser has a tunable duration and a narrow spectral bandwidth, opening up new possibilities for applications in optical communications, biomedicine, material processing, and scientific research.

A return to the wild for better immune health

A study found that revegetated urban green spaces have more native plant species and greater microbiota diversity, similar to natural environments. This can lead to improved immune function and reduced non-communicable diseases. Urban design principles could be influenced by the environmental microbiome to create healthier public spaces.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateMay 24, 2020

Using wastewater to monitor COVID-19

A recent review paper highlights the potential of using wastewater to monitor COVID-19, detecting low levels of virus particles and asymptomatic cases. The method offers several advantages over clinical testing, but challenges include a lack of standardized protocols and knowledge on viral decay in water environments.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMay 24, 2020

How a male fly knows when to make a move on a mate

Researchers found that male fruit flies adjust their scent sensitivity by altering a gene called fruitless in response to pheromone signals and social environment. This study may provide insights into treating sensory processing disorders like autism, as it reveals how organisms selectively tune into or block sensory input.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 22, 2020

First fossil nursery of the great white shark discovered

Researchers analyzed 2-5 million year old fossil teeth to reconstruct body size distribution patterns of the great white shark in the past. The discovery reveals a significant nursery area with high percentages of young sharks, indicating that environmental changes can impact population dynamics and evolutionary success.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 22, 2020