A study by UC Irvine and U.S. Army researchers found that cutting off work email significantly reduces stress and improves concentration among employees. Without email, participants experienced more natural heart rates and were able to multitask less and stay focused.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) is investing $1.1 million in Advanced Placement (AP) math and science courses for military families in select high schools. The program aims to provide students with opportunities to earn college credit and pursue careers in the sciences.
USDA researchers explore the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to monitor changing land-use patterns in western rangelands. The results show that aerial data can be comparable to information gathered through ground-based surveys, with potential applications for erosion control and invasive species monitoring.
Scientists develop aquatic microrobot that stands effortlessly on water surfaces, walking and turning freely. The robot incorporates improvements over previous devices, making it a prime candidate for military spy missions and water pollution monitoring.
Researchers have developed a coal-based jet fuel, provisionally designated JP900, which produces almost the same Btu as conventional fuels. The fuel has improved flash point, lower viscosity, and higher smoke point, making it suitable for existing engines and interest both commercial and military users.
Scientists use declassified spy satellite images and aerial photographs to document an increase in both shrub numbers and area in a former arid grassland. The study reveals that honey mesquite bushes now dominate large areas of the Southwest, with most shrubs holding their ground despite early droughts.
Cranfield University is launching an eight-week management program for local land mine action managers, supported by the United Nations Development Programme and UK Government funding. The course aims to improve existing resource utilization in mine clearance management, helping to reduce the impact of land mines on affected countries.
Researchers have created an alloy that can handle high-power and high-frequency microelectronic devices better than pure silicon-carbide. The alloy conducts twice as much current, making it a promising material for next-generation electronics.
The US Navy's USS HAWKBILL is conducting a five-week scientific expedition to the Arctic Ocean as part of SCICEX 99. The mission aims to examine geophysical, chemical, and biological properties of the Arctic Ocean, including mapping its poorly-charted floor.