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Science News Archive June 2017 - Page 14


Page 14 of 40

The (extra) eyes have it

A team of UCSB researchers found that aggregating individual responses from multiple observers improves visual search performance, especially when the object is hard to detect. This approach leverages the high confidence of individuals who directly gaze at the target.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2017

Trash-picking seagulls poop tons of nutrients

A new study by Duke University estimates that seagulls feeding at landfills transport and deposit over 240 tons of nitrogen and 39 tons of phosphorus into nearby lakes or reservoirs each year. This nutrient overload contributes to algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and ecological and economic impacts.

SourceDuke University·JournalWater Research·DateJun 21, 2017

Bat biodiversity is in danger on islands worldwide

A new study reveals vast knowledge gaps in island-restricted bat species, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing conservation efforts for these vulnerable habitats. The research identifies areas with high levels of endemic bat species and underscores the urgent need to protect their islands and populations.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalMammal Review·DateJun 21, 2017

CPAP improves respiratory and survival rates in children in Ghana

A recent study published in The Lancet Global Health found that applying continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to children with respiratory distress significantly decreased mortality rates and improved respiratory rates. The treatment was safely and effectively administered by nurses in district-level hospitals, offering a lifesav...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJun 21, 2017

Drowsy dormice doze into decline

The UK's hazel dormouse population has declined by 72% over the past two decades, with conservation efforts proving insufficient to stem the decline. The research team is now calling for an urgent review of dormouse conservation to protect this beloved woodland mammal.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMammal Review·DateJun 21, 2017

Forgetting can make you smarter

Researchers propose that forgetting is crucial for efficient memory, allowing us to adapt to new situations and generalize past events. By controlling what information we retain and forget, our brains optimize decision-making and prioritize core knowledge.

SourceCIFAR·JournalNeuron·DateJun 21, 2017

This week from AGU: Remarkable 2016 storms caused massive Antarctic sea ice loss

A new study in Geophysical Research Letters finds that a series of unprecedented storms over the Southern Ocean likely caused the most dramatic decline in Antarctic sea ice seen to date. The extreme weather event led to significant losses of sea ice, with researchers suggesting that the storms' impact was exacerbated by climate change.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 21, 2017

No mercury accumulation in fish after fire

A study by researchers from the USDA Forest Service and the University of Minnesota found that controlled burns did not lead to increased mercury levels in yellow perch, contradicting previous mixed results. The research also showed no significant disruption to watershed food webs.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJun 21, 2017

Identified brain circuitry bridges neural and behavioral roles in PTSD

A comprehensive review of rapidly changing data identified four neural-behavioral models associated with PTSD, pinpointing specific circuits in the brain that mediate between chemical changes and behavioral expressions. The study provides detailed tables to help healthcare providers recognize signs and symptoms of PTSD for diagnosis.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 21, 2017

Eating fish may reduce arthritis symptoms

A recent study found that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis who consumed fish at least 2 times a week had lower disease activity compared to those who ate fish less than once a month. The study, which assessed 176 patients, suggests that fish consumption may lower inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJun 21, 2017

The world's largest canary

The São Tomé grosbeak is the world's largest canary, measuring 20 cm long and possessing a flat head and large beak. It is found only on the island of São Tomé in the West African Gulf of Guinea and is 50% larger than the runner-up species.

SourceLund University·JournalIbis·DateJun 21, 2017

Clear view on stem cell development

Researchers developed an algorithm to correct images and make hitherto hidden development steps visible, allowing for more accurate detection of regulatory proteins active during stem cell development. The 'BaSiC' software can correct changes in the background of time-lapse videos, making it a valuable tool for stem cell researchers.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2017

Researchers recommend specific diabetes medications to protect bone health

A comprehensive review highlights the most effective treatment options for co-managing type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. Researchers suggest using medications like Metformin and DPP-4 inhibitors to protect bone health. Meanwhile, insulin therapy is recommended for achieving glycemic control in patients with T2D and fractures.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 21, 2017