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University of Central Florida


UCF researchers identify food products that could reduce COVID transmission

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have identified food products that can alter a person's saliva to reduce the transmission potential of airborne pathogens. By adding ingredients like ginger, cornstarch, and xanthan gum to food products, people may be able to make masks more effective or even reduce their need for them.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Study finds critical data needed for monitoring and preserving biodiversity is missing

The world's largest repository of raw genomic sequences is missing critical data necessary for monitoring and preserving biodiversity. Only 14% of archived datasets contain information about when and where organisms were sampled, highlighting the need for community standards to preserve metadata.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 8, 2021

Study sheds light on pre-Columbian life in understudied area of SW Amazon

Researchers found evidence of intensive land use for farming and fishing over 3,500 years ago in the Llanos de Mojos region of Bolivia. This discovery counters the often-held notion of a pristine Amazon before Europeans arrived and provides new insights into the history of culturally diverse but understudied cultures.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2021

New international research provides tips for entrepreneurs to beat the grind

A new study suggests that engaging in recovery can help entrepreneurs reduce the negative impact of stress and improve well-being outcomes. The study proposes three recovery-intervention categories: Respite, Reappraisal, and Regimen, which recommend taking breaks, reframing thoughts on stress, and adding structure to recovery.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalEntrepreneurship Theory and Practice·DateMay 25, 2021

Polarization: From better sunglasses to a better way of looking at asteroid surfaces

Researchers at the Arecibo Observatory have developed a technique to analyze radar signals bounced off asteroids' surfaces, providing crucial information on their physical properties. This method can help planetary defense prepare for asteroids on a collision course with Earth by identifying porous, fluffy, or rocky surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateMar 11, 2021

Bosses need appreciation, too

A recent study found that feeling appreciated by subordinates boosts the energy and optimism of supervisors, leading to higher levels of psychological well-being and positive behaviors at work. The research suggests that external validation can be particularly powerful for supervisors who lack internal validation.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of Management·DateDec 10, 2020

UCF researcher examines benefits of supportive communities for older adults

A University of Central Florida researcher studied three aging-in-community programs in Florida to examine the impact of supportive communities on older adults. She found that higher education levels were linked to lower perceptions of independent living, while neighborhood social cohesiveness was more common among married individuals....

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalGerontology and Geriatric Medicine·DateNov 17, 2020

AI teachers must be effective and communicate well to be accepted, new study finds

Researchers at the University of Central Florida found that students are more likely to accept an AI teaching assistant if it is effective and easy to communicate with. The study suggests that designing AI teachers to facilitate positive learning experiences requires understanding how students relate to these systems.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Interaction·DateOct 30, 2020