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University of Cambridge


Veg 'nudge': an extra vegetarian option cuts meat consumption without denting food sales

A study found that doubling vegetarian options reduced meat-rich purchases by 40-80%. The results suggest tweaking food availability can influence people's decisions for human health and environmental preservation. No rebound effect was detected, meaning opting for a veggie lunch didn't lead to a compensatory meat-heavy dinner.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Mechanisms of real-time speech interpretation in the human brain revealed

Scientists developed computational models of word meanings and tested them against real-time brain activity in volunteers, revealing how the brain combines words to make sense in context. The study shows how word constraints directly affect meaning interpretation, highlighting the neural mechanisms behind spoken language understanding.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Nanowires replace Newton's famous glass prism

Researchers have designed a nanowire spectrometer that can directly image single cells and analyze chemical fingerprints without the need for microscopes or bulky equipment. This breakthrough could lead to new generations of ultra-compact spectrometers with applications in biology, lab-on-a-chip systems, and smart wearables.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateSep 5, 2019

Robot uses machine learning to harvest lettuce

A robot developed by the University of Cambridge has successfully harvested iceberg lettuce in various field conditions, demonstrating potential for expanding robotics in agriculture. The 'Vegebot' uses machine learning to identify healthy lettuces and cut them without crushing, reducing physical demands on manual harvesting.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Field Robotics·DateJul 7, 2019

Researchers criticize study calling for expansion of genetic testing for breast cancer

A recent study calling for expanded genetic testing for hereditary breast cancer has been criticized by researchers at the University of Cambridge. The criticism highlights methodological flaws in the study and potential conflicts of interest among its authors, leading to concerns about the accuracy and practicality of such tests.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 27, 2019

The short life of Must Farm

Archaeologists from the Cambridge Archaeological Unit present a definitive timeframe for Must Farm's occupation and destruction in Antiquity. The site, located in Cambridgeshire, England, features remarkably preserved Late Bronze Age structures, including stilted houses and logboats, which provide insight into daily life 3,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAntiquity·DateJun 12, 2019