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Science News Archive February 2017 - Page 7


Page 7 of 37

Using dogs to find cats

Researchers used trained detection dogs to locate cheetah scat and signs in Western Zambia, detecting the species throughout a survey area. The study estimates a cheetah density of 5.9-6.6 individuals per 1000 square kilometers.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateFeb 23, 2017

New paper published in Phytobiomes may lead to novel methods of Rhizoctonia solani control

Researchers identified a novel biological aspect of Rhizoctonia solani, where bacteria persistently associate with the fungus during growth on solid media. This association affects the biology of the fungal host and its interactions with plants, raising prospects for developing alternative disease management strategies.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateFeb 23, 2017

Study: Two-thirds of clinicians lack knowledge of diabetes-related foot complication

A recent survey found that more than two-thirds of non-foot-specialist clinicians are unaware of Charcot neuroarthropathy, a rare form of foot damage. The condition can lead to significant disability and morbidity if not diagnosed early. Improving education on this topic is crucial for better patient outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalClinical Diabetes and Endocrinology·DateFeb 23, 2017

New research on rape kit processing sees improvements

A new study by BYU nursing professor Julie Valentine found that sexual assault kit submission rates in Utah improved significantly from 38 percent in 2010-2013 to 75 percent in 2014. The study analyzed 2,317 kits and showed notable improvements in various jurisdictions, with Washington County seeing the most significant increase.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateFeb 23, 2017

New 'tougher-than-metal' fiber-reinforced hydrogels

Scientists at Hokkaido University have created 'fiber-reinforced soft composites' that combine the flexibility of hydrogels with the strength of glass fibers. These materials are 5 times tougher than carbon steel, making them suitable for various applications such as artificial ligaments and tendons.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 23, 2017

Hitching a ride with a predator

Research reveals that secondary seed dispersal by predator animals is crucial for recolonizing plants in the wild. Thick-shelled seeds benefit from passing through multiple animal digestive systems, increasing their chances of germination.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalEcosphere·DateFeb 23, 2017

Light-driven reaction converts carbon dioxide into fuel

Researchers at Duke University developed tiny rhodium nanoparticles that convert carbon dioxide into methane using ultraviolet light, potentially reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. The discovery offers a promising alternative energy source and could be scaled up for industrial applications.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2017

How blood can be rejuvenated

Researchers at Lund University successfully reprogrammed old blood stem cells to function like those of younger individuals, revealing a potential new approach to treating age-related diseases. This breakthrough suggests that epigenetic changes, rather than DNA mutations, underlie the decline in blood cell function with age.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2017

Trilobite eggs in New York

Researchers have discovered the first occurrence of in situ preserved trilobite eggs from the Lorraine Group in upstate New York. The eggs are spherical to elliptical in shape and nearly 200 micrometers in size, providing valuable insights into the reproductive biology of ancient arthropods.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateFeb 23, 2017

Lack of training contributes to burnout, survey of preschool teachers finds

A recent study by University of Missouri researchers found that over 75% of preschool teachers want more training opportunities due to their current lack of support. The survey also revealed that many teachers experience significant stress and feel like leaving their jobs due to challenging behaviors in the classroom.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal on Disability and Human Development·DateFeb 23, 2017

Who sweats more: Men or women?

A study published in Experimental Physiology found that body size, not sex, determines how people lose heat during exercise in warm conditions. The research involved 36 men and 24 women who underwent light and moderate exercise trials at controlled temperatures.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateFeb 23, 2017

Psychiatric illness may increase stroke risk

Research found that patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other psychiatric disorders have an increased risk of stroke, especially in the immediate post-diagnosis period. The study's lead researcher suggests that psychological distress may contribute to increased blood pressure and inflammation, leading to a higher stroke risk.

The role of weight in postmenopausal women's longevity

A large multiethnic study found that being underweight increases early death risk among postmenopausal women. Higher waist circumference, but not excess weight, is associated with premature mortality, highlighting the dangers of abdominal fat.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 23, 2017