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Science News Archive January 2017 - Page 31


Page 31 of 35

Measuring trees with the speed of sound

A team of researchers developed a non-invasive method to detect and quantify wood decay in living trees, which can help understand global carbon pools and tree health. The sonic tomography technology uses sound waves to image the trunk, allowing for the creation of color-coded images of decaying wood.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJan 5, 2017

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Gastric bypass helps severely obese teenagers maintain weight loss over long term

Severely obese teenagers who undergo gastric bypass surgery experience significant weight loss and improved health outcomes, including reduced diabetes and high cholesterol risks. However, some patients may need additional surgery or develop vitamin deficiencies, highlighting the importance of long-term follow-up and support.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJan 5, 2017

Deepest X-ray image ever reveals black hole treasure trove

A team of astronomers led by Penn State's Niel Brandt has captured the deepest X-ray image ever obtained, revealing a treasure trove of supermassive black holes. The image, taken with Chandra observing time of about 11 weeks, shows that these massive objects grow in bursts rather than slowly accumulating matter.

Mouse model points to potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting the 12/15-lipoxygenase enzyme, which is elevated in patients with the condition. The study found that this inhibitor reverses cognitive decline and neuropathology in an AD mouse model, even after symptoms have already developed.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 5, 2017

New model shows companies how to tailor call center service to different customer types

A new study provides an integrated marketing-operations framework to help companies design more effective service policies for their call centers. The framework considers the flow of customers through the call center and their subsequent behavior, allowing companies to design different service levels for various customer types.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateJan 5, 2017

Harmonization needed!

A review in Angewandte Chemie emphasizes the importance of standardized analytic protocols to accurately assess microplastic contamination in aquatic ecosystems. The authors propose a list of nine arguments for harmonized methods, including improved sampling and processing techniques, to ensure reliable data and inform risk assessments.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 5, 2017

Foods rich in resistant starch may benefit health

A new review examines the potential health benefits of resistant starch, a form of starch not digested in the small intestine. It has been linked to improved blood sugar control and enhanced gut health through increased production of short-chain fatty acids.

SourceWiley·JournalNutrition Bulletin·DateJan 5, 2017

HKU biologist reveals important role cities play in conservation of threatened species

A recent study finds that urban centers like Hong Kong can play a crucial role in conserving globally threatened species. Introduced populations of these species have been thriving outside their native habitats, providing an opportunity to augment declining populations in their native ranges and mitigate threats to local ecosystems.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJan 4, 2017

Women as decorative accessories: Keep silent or take a stance?

A recent study published in Springer's journal Sex Roles found that awareness campaigns targeting women can be a powerful tool to encourage collective action against female sexual objectification. The research revealed that watching a critique video clip increased women's willingness to support protests, whereas men showed no such effect.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJan 4, 2017