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Science News Archive March 2016 - Page 11


Page 11 of 41

Concert hall acoustics influence the emotional impact of music

Researchers at Aalto University found that acoustic concert halls play a significant role in the emotional impact of music. Identically selected performances of classical orchestra music evoked stronger emotional responses when presented in acoustics of Vienna Musikverein or Berlin Konzerthaus, shoebox-type concert halls.

SourceAalto University·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateMar 23, 2016

You taste like mercury, said the spider to the fly

A Dartmouth-led study found that stream insects consumed by spiders transfer methylmercury to terrestrial predators, highlighting the importance of dissolved organic carbon in mediating mercury bioavailability. The research reveals a broader reach of mercury contamination than previously recognized.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEcological Applications·DateMar 23, 2016

Sterile Box offers safer surgeries

The Sterile Box, a mobile container, sterilizes surgical instruments to minimize risk of infections in patients. The system's performance was nearly perfect in trials, and it addresses issues with unreliable power and inadequate quality control in developing countries.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 23, 2016

A new way to determine the age of stars?

Researchers have developed a new framework to understand the evolution of sun-like stars, which can help determine their age with more precision. The model predicts that younger stars will vary significantly in x-ray emission intensity, but convergence occurs after a certain age, making them more predictable.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 23, 2016

Changes to environment helps protect young pheasants

Research by University of Exeter found that providing early life perches to young pheasants can improve their survival rates and fitness. This is because raised perches help develop essential survival characteristics such as stronger legs, better spatial awareness, and memory. As a result, more pheasants are likely to thrive in the wild.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 22, 2016

Genomes of chimpanzee parasite species reveal evolution of human malaria

The study reveals that Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite, has a limited genetic diversity compared to its chimpanzee and gorilla cousins. The team found an expansion of a multi-gene family in Laverania parasites that helps them evade host immune cells and clear the spleen, contributing to severe malaria pathology.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 22, 2016

Carbon leads the way in clean energy

Researchers have developed a nickel-carbon-based catalyst that replaces platinum in producing hydrogen from water, offering a cheaper alternative for renewable energy technologies. The new catalyst exhibits highly efficient hydrogen evolution performance and impressive durability.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 22, 2016

Microagents with revolutionary potential

Researchers have created tiny particles that can be precisely controlled by magnetic fields and generate electric fields, revolutionizing medicine and regenerative therapy. These 'Janus' particles can target cancer cells with precision and efficiency, eliminating side effects.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateMar 22, 2016