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Cloud-based framework leads to improved efficiency in disaster-area management

Researchers have designed a cloud-based autonomous system framework utilizing the standard messaging protocol for IoT. This framework maximizes network coverage area and increases speed of communication between unmanned sensors. The team plans to add computer vision and machine learning capabilities in future developments.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateOct 27, 2020

How fear encourages physical distancing during pandemic

A new study by University of Houston researchers found that negatively presented information and 'Mr. Deadly COVID-19' scary face can significantly strengthen the message, increasing compliance with physical distancing guidelines. The study suggests using preventive language to persuade consumers to avoid close contact.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalService Industries Journal·DateOct 21, 2020

Microscopic robots 'walk' thanks to laser tech

The new microscopic robots are controlled by flashing laser pulses and can walk thanks to a simple circuit made from silicon photovoltaics. The researchers explored ways to enhance the robots with more complicated electronics and onboard computation, potentially leading to swarms of tiny robots crawling through human tissue and blood.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateAug 26, 2020

How building features impact veterans with PTSD

Veterans with PTSD prefer buildings with large windows, easy entrance and exit locations, open floor plans, and green spaces to feel comfortable. Interior design features like brighter colors and fewer furniture pieces also contribute to their comfort.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalHERD Health Environments Research & Design Journal·DateAug 10, 2020

Safe work protocols can increase the likelihood the business will fail

New research in INFORMS journal Management Science suggests that organizations with safe workplaces have lower odds of survival. Employers who don't prioritize worker safety may gain an economic advantage by reducing costs and increasing productivity. The study analyzed data from 100,000 organizations across 25 years in Oregon.

Soft robot actuators heal themselves

Researchers created a self-healing polymer that mimics squid ring teeth, enabling fast and efficient repair of soft robotic actuators. The material can heal within one second, regaining its original strength and being fully biodegradable and recyclable.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 27, 2020

Towards an AI diagnosis like the doctor's

AI systems can learn to recognize abnormalities, but often lack transparency and make 'lazy' diagnoses. Researchers from Radboud University Medical Center developed an approach to improve sensitivity and transparency in AI diagnosis, achieving a 11.2% increase in diabetic retinopathy detection

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalIEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging·DateJun 24, 2020

How can you sleep during a solo sailing race?

Researchers analyzed data from solo skippers in the Mini Transat La Boulangère regatta to identify effective sleep management strategies. Over half of the skippers employed sleep extension, polyphasic sleep, or gradual sleep deprivation to optimize their performance and safety during the competition.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalNature and Science of Sleep·DateJun 4, 2020

Aiming for an enduring relationship

Recent research suggests that a higher degree of readiness is associated with higher commitment to a relationship. Readiness also predicts relationship maintenance beyond commitment, but surprisingly, it's also linked to less loyalty. The study found that individuals who feel more ready may prioritize relationships over other issues an...

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJun 1, 2020

Filming quantic measurement for the first time

A team of researchers from the University of Seville and international partners successfully filmed quantic measurement for the first time. The experiment confirmed a subtle prediction in quantum physics, showing that the quantum state changes gradually during measurement rather than instantaneously.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 12, 2020

Fishers livelihood measured by more than catch

A study by Michigan State University examines the complex relationships between small-scale fishing activities, including pre- and post-harvest interactions, to understand the impact on fishers' livelihoods. The research highlights the importance of trust and collaborative relationships in shaping these dynamics.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 23, 2020

In it together

Researchers found that a social marketing program, Fish Forever, increased community support for sustainable fishing practices. The program's customizable approach and community-led initiatives helped shift social norms and improve perception of management interventions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalConservation Biology·DateApr 22, 2020

Mindful yoga reduces testosterone by 29% in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

A study published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that mindful yoga significantly reduced testosterone levels and improved symptoms of depression and anxiety in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The practice also showed promise in reducing androgen levels, including DHEA.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateApr 14, 2020

Focusing continuity of care on sicker patients can save millions of dollars annually

Research by Southern Methodist University and Texas Tech University found that higher continuity of care leads to improved patient outcomes, including fewer inpatient visits and lower readmission rates. However, at the highest levels of continuity of care, outcomes worsen, suggesting a potential benefit from having multiple providers.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateMar 9, 2020

Predicting intentional accounting misreporting

A new study developed by SMU Assistant Professor Richard Crowley uses machine learning to analyze topic patterns in company filings to predict intentional accounting misreporting. The researchers found that certain topics, such as revenue and income figures, were more commonly used by companies that had engaged in misreporting.

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalJournal of Accounting Research·DateMar 1, 2020