Insect and animal invasions can teach us about COVID-19 eurekalert.org - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from eurekalert.org Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
University researchers have carried out the largest systematic review and meta-analysis to date of how people s perceptions of their screen time compare with what they do in practice, finding estimates of usage were only accurate in about five per cent of studies.
African rainforests still slowed climate change despite record heat and drought eurekalert.org - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from eurekalert.org Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
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IMAGE: Microscope image of microfibres released from children s mask: the colourful fibres are from the cartoon patterns view more
Credit: Swansea University
Swansea University scientists have uncovered potentially dangerous chemical pollutants that are released from disposable face masks when submerged in water.
The research reveals high levels of pollutants, including lead, antimony, and copper, within the silicon-based and plastic fibres of common disposable face masks.
The work is supported by the Institute for Innovative Materials, Processing and Numerical Technologies (IMPACT) and the SPECIFIC Innovation & Knowledge Centre
Project lead Dr Sarper Sarp of Swansea University College of Engineering said: All of us need to keep wearing masks as they are essential in ending the pandemic. But we also urgently need more research and regulation on mask production, so we can reduce any risks to the environment and human health .
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IMAGE: The image shows the interface between the hydrogel (left-hand side) and the PDMS (on the right-hand side). The images was taken at 100,000 times magnification. Credit: University of Leeds. view more
Credit: University of Leeds
Inspired by nature, the researchers developing a new load-bearing material
Engineers have developed a new material that mimics human cartilage - the body s shock absorbing and lubrication system, and it could herald the development of a new generation of lightweight bearings.
Cartilage is a soft fibrous tissue found around joints which provides protection from the compressive loading generated by walking, running or lifting. It also provides a protective, lubricating layer allowing bones to pass over one another in a frictionless way. For years, scientists have been trying to create a synthetic material with the properties of cartilage.