A University of Central Florida study suggests that keeping a gratitude journal can lead to less rude behavior and mistreatment of others in the workplace. Researchers found that employees who spent a few minutes a day writing down things they were grateful for engaged in fewer gossiping, ostracizing behaviors.
Researchers propose a hypothesis that animals use magnetotactic bacteria in a symbiotic relationship to gain a magnetic sense, which could improve human navigation and inform ecological research. The study found evidence of magnetotactic bacteria associated with various animal species, including sea turtles, birds, and mammals.
Researchers are co-developing a new, rapid-acting, long-lasting disinfectant spray that instantly kills viruses without harsh chemicals. The spray uses UCF-developed cerium oxide nanoparticles, which have shown therapeutic properties against various diseases.
Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed models to predict periods of relatively higher flood risk due to storm surges. The models link large-scale climate variability events like El Niño to storm surge activity, allowing for more accurate predictions and improved coastal preparedness.
The method can be used in a portable, tabletop device to rapidly identify known and emerging opioid fentanyl substances, aiding in the safety of law enforcement and military personnel. The AI algorithm had a 92.5 percent accuracy rate for correctly identifying molecules related to fentanyl.
Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed a method to generate attosecond pulses using industrial-grade lasers, making it more accessible to scientists from various disciplines. This breakthrough could lead to new applications in power generation, chemical- and biological-weapon detection, and medical diagnostics.
A team of researchers used Arecibo Observatory data and NASA's Fermi Large Area Space Telescope to detect a gamma-ray heartbeat coming from a cosmic gas cloud. The 'heartbeat' rhythm matches the precession of a black hole's jets, suggesting that the cloud's emission is powered by the microquasar.
A new study found a link between sleep and entrepreneurship, suggesting that temporary ADHD-like tendencies generated by lack of sleep can be a benefit in spurring ventures. Practicing entrepreneurs also showed a consistent influence of impermanent sleep problems on entrepreneurial intentions.
A new study demonstrates the effectiveness of a Human-on-a-Chip technology in modeling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pathology. The system reproduces assays used in clinics to assess ALS deficits, showing promise for accelerated drug development and treatment screening.
Researchers have developed a new type of laser beam that doesn't follow long-held principles about how light refracts and travels. The beams, known as spacetime wave packets, can be arranged to behave in the usual manner, not changing speed at all, or even speeding up in denser materials.
The Arecibo Observatory successfully tracked asteroid 2020 NK1, determining its orbit and motion. The observations showed the asteroid poses no danger to Earth, with a closest approach in 2043. High-resolution images revealed an elongated shape and diameter of approximately 0.6 miles.
A new study published in Molecular Ecology reveals that the genes responsible for protecting frogs may actually be leading to their demise in the face of the invasive chytridiomycosis disease. Researchers found that frogs that died from the disease had higher expression of immune system genes than those that survived.
A team of international scientists discovered an asymmetrical double neutron star system, which could provide vital clues about the expansion rate of the universe. The finding uses the National Science Foundation's Arecibo Observatory's powerful radio telescope and builds upon a 2017 LIGO/Virgo discovery.
A University of Central Florida researcher has developed a new test strip that can detect adulterated food with high accuracy, solving the problem of people paying more for their food than it's worth. The technology aims to replace current tests that are expensive, complicated or less effective, and is scheduled for completion in 2023.
A UCF study is investigating how correctional agencies adapted to the pandemic, finding that some used video-conferencing and suspended supervision fees. The research aims to inform effective strategies for future public-health crises, with a goal of improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Researchers from diverse backgrounds recommend comprehensive solutions to mitigate the negative impacts of connected extremes on food, water, health, and infrastructure. The combination of climate conditions with stressors to social systems, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, could lead to severe consequences.
A University of Central Florida researcher has developed a new display technology that mimics the colors of butterfly wings, creating ultra-high-definition screens with extremely low power consumption. The technology uses nanoscale structures to scatter and reflect light, producing more natural-looking images without harsh glare.
An international team of researchers has developed a new type of molecular circuit switch that can operate as both a diode and a memory element. The breakthrough device is just 2 nanometers thick and requires low drive voltage, opening up the possibility for ultra-high-density computing within our lifetime.
Researchers at the University of Central Florida have created an Ice Favorability Index to aid in the detection of water ice deposits on the moon. The study provides valuable insights into the geological processes that form these deposits, enabling companies to better understand the risks and rewards of lunar mining.
A new UCF study found microplastics in the digestive systems of 63 birds of prey in Florida, including hawks, ospreys, and owls. The researchers discovered nearly 1,200 pieces of plastic, mostly microfibers, which can lead to poisoning, starvation, and death.
A UCF team is exploring a novel approach to reduce COVID-19 transmission by making saliva heavier and stickier using candy or corn starch. The goal is to create a simple cough drop that can help sneeze and cough particles fall rather than float in the air, reducing transmission distance.
UCF professor Maria Harrington receives a grant from Epic Games to develop cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. The project aims to create photorealistic models of botanical gardens and university arboretums, providing users with detailed information about plants and ecosystems.
Laws punishing pregnant drug abusers are ineffective in reducing substance use during pregnancy, instead decreasing treatment admissions by 29% and referrals to healthcare professionals by 18%. The study found no significant reduction in babies born with withdrawal symptoms or exposed to narcotics.
Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed a rotating detonation rocket engine that can sustain continuous Mach 5 explosions, improving rocket-engine efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. This technology has the potential to increase space mission capabilities and reduce emissions.
Researchers aim to identify how social media influences consumer behavior during red tide events, which had a negative impact on humans and marine life. The study will analyze data from 80 different sectors and explore the role of social media in shaping economic decisions.
The Arecibo Observatory is tracking a near-Earth asteroid called 1998 OR2, which has unique topographic features that resemble a face mask. The asteroid's size and rotation period have been confirmed through observations, and monitoring its trajectory will help improve impact-risk mitigation technologies.
A new international study developed a novel statistical method to capture the interactions between tides and storm surges. The model found that coastal flooding risks are underestimated, with reductions of up to 17% in people affected and 13% lower costs for US coasts.
Scientists at the University of Central Florida and partners have successfully created anti-ferromagnetic devices that operate on the terahertz level, paving the way for ultra-fast electronics. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize guidance systems, communications, and even mimic brain function.
Researchers create nanostructures that can capture and kill viruses, including COVID-19, using ultraviolet light. The coating could be added to masks, gloves, and gowns to protect healthcare providers.
A new study by UCF predicts that Canaveral National Seashore will experience the greatest impact from sea level rise and hurricanes, with a loss of about 1% of its loggerhead habitat by 2100. The study used a new method to calculate current and future sea turtle nesting areas, which can help the National Park Service manage resources.
Scientists at UCF created functional nanomaterials for highly sensitive biomarker detection. The new method could enable high-performance technologies in various areas, including better diagnostic tools and test strip technology.
Researchers found that modern people's judgments of crime severity align with ancient laws, indicating a universal capacity for making justice intuitions. The study provides evidence for the shared sense of justice that underlies legal codes, shedding light on the origins of laws.
A team of UCF researchers has created a nanoscale device that mimics the neural pathways of brain cells used for human vision. The innovation combines two promising materials to enable robots to process and memorize information, reducing processing time and energy consumption.
Researchers at UCF's Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering have determined that ethanol is the best biofuel for producing minimal soot during combustion. The study also identified chemical pathways involved in combustion reactions, which can be used to further research into reducing soot production.
A pilot study from the University of Central Florida found that judo lessons increased moderate to vigorous physical activity among children with autism, reducing sedentary time. Participants also showed improved social interaction skills and comfort with physical contact.
A team of researchers created a computer model that predicts the migration patterns of sea turtle hatchlings after they leave Florida's shores. The model takes into account ocean circulation data and sea turtle nesting and stranding information to inform conservation efforts and guide policies.
Researchers created an extreme sea level indicator using historical data from US coastlines to understand the causes of sea level changes. The study found that different factors play a role in extreme sea levels, varying by location and time.
Researchers at the University of Central Florida used machine learning to optimize perovskite solar cell materials, enabling flexible and efficient energy production. The study's findings have the potential to revolutionize energy usage and storage.
A new study published in Science reveals the critical criteria for driving a flame to self-generate turbulence and transition into detonation, applicable to both Type Ia supernovae and hypersonic jet propulsion. This discovery may aid the understanding of certain kinds of supernovae and potentially lead to advancements in air and space...
UCF researchers have created an infrared detector that can enhance night vision capabilities by detecting different wavelengths of infrared light. The technology has implications for improving what can be seen in space, chemical and biological disaster areas, and on the battlefield. The detector operates faster than existing cameras an...
The study presents the first genome sequence of the Florida panther, revealing increased genetic variation in the population. Genetic rescue efforts led to a tripling of genetic diversity in two offspring, alleviating genetic defect threats and promoting population growth from 20-30 to 120-230 individuals.
A study found that sleep plays a vital role in evaluating business ideas, with entrepreneurs who get at least seven hours of sleep consistently selecting the best pitches. The research suggests that lack of sleep can lead to less accurate beliefs about the commercial potential of new venture ideas.
A UCF team led by Veronica Urgiles has discovered and named two new frog species found in high-elevation ecosystems of Ecuador. The team's research highlights the vast diversity of species yet to be discovered in the region, which is critical for conservation efforts.
A new study found that people in the US are wary of using CRISPR-based genetic engineering to achieve wildlife conservation goals. The research, conducted by a University of Central Florida researcher, suggests that the public perceives the risks of gene editing as outweighing the benefits.
UCF researchers identify molecular changes caused by high levels of Propionic Acid, a common acid in processed foods, reducing neuron development in fetal brains. The study suggests a potential link between maternal diet and autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers used Cassini's closest observations to study Saturn's rings, revealing three distinct textures and tiny moons within the rings. The study also found streaky textures and large boulders, which may be fragments of broken objects or formed through accretion processes.
Research on brain-heart interactions may lead to life-saving therapies for heart failure and arrhythmia by manipulating specific nerves to emit electrical signals. Dr. Cheng's lab is developing a comprehensive map of neurons and their connections to the heart.
The study found that African-American mothers live in fear for their sons' safety, leading to physical symptoms and impacting their parenting style. The mothers reported sharing 'the talk' with their sons to enhance their chances of survival.
A new study reveals that 75% of the Atlantic Coast from North Carolina to Central Florida will be highly vulnerable to erosion and inundation from rising tides by 2030. The region has seen a 30% increase in highly vulnerable areas since 2000, with species like loggerhead and green sea turtles facing significant threats.
Researchers at UCF have developed a novel technique to analyze the dynamics of fires and explosions using laser technology. The approach allows for fast measurement of temperature and molecular concentrations within microseconds, enabling advances in firefighting, engine efficiency, and potentially even space travel.