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Science News Archive May 2017 - Page 35


Page 35 of 42

Bravery may cost fish their lives

A study by Lund University found that bold common roaches, known for their bravery, are twice as likely to be eaten by cormorants. Shyer individuals, on the other hand, survive to a greater extent in the wild. The researchers' focus on behavioral traits rather than morphology provides new insights into predator-prey interactions.

SourceLund University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 4, 2017

Hand osteoarthritis is a common condition

A new study estimates that nearly half of the population will develop hand osteoarthritis, affecting hand strength and function. Individuals with obesity are at a significantly increased risk, highlighting the need for public health and clinical interventions to address this common condition.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateMay 4, 2017

3-D printers open new design space for wireless devices

Duke researchers have created 3D-printed electromagnetic metamaterials with potential to revolutionize the design and prototyping of radio frequency applications. The use of a highly conductive material, Electrifi, enables rapid construction of complex devices and accelerates the design process.

SourceDuke University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 4, 2017

For people with Down syndrome, varying test results can make it harder to get the right vision prescription

A study found that people with Down syndrome experienced nearly three times greater variability in autorefractor testing compared to a control group. This increased variability can lead to incorrect vision prescriptions and reduced chances of reaching the best possible refraction for those with Down syndrome.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateMay 4, 2017

Study: Models that forecast impact of government spending are easily manipulated

Researchers at North Carolina State University and Indiana University found that widely used government spending models can be rigged using assumptions to control forecasts. They developed an impartial version of the model, which suggests every dollar of increased government spending results in more than a dollar's worth of GDP growth.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateMay 4, 2017

The liver increases by half during the day

In a study published in Cell, researchers found that liver size in mice increases by almost half before returning to its initial dimensions. The fluctuations are influenced by the rhythm of food intake and physical activity. The discovery sheds light on how our circadian clock affects liver function.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell·DateMay 4, 2017

Deadly nanoparcel for cancer cells

Scientists develop a hybrid nanomaterial that releases a free-radical-generating prodrug inside tumor cells, destroying them even in oxygen-depleted conditions. The material damages cells by a ROS-type radical mechanism without the need for oxygen.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 4, 2017

Snow in Hawai'i: What does the future hold?

A regional climate model predicts that future Hawaiian snowfalls will decrease dramatically, with average winter snowfall expected to be ten times less than present day amounts by the end of the century. The study provides insights into the benefits of model downscaling and highlights the need for monitoring climate change in the region.

Climate change, tornadoes and mobile homes: A dangerous mix

A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that climate change will increase the annual impact of tornadoes on mobile homes, with a predicted threefold rise over the next few decades. The study highlights the vulnerability of mobile home residents to tornado-related fatalities and recommends policy changes to reduce risk.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalRegional Science and Urban Economics·DateMay 4, 2017

Unlocking the barrier

A recent study from Harvard Medical School revealed the surprising role of omega-3 fatty acids in maintaining the blood-brain barrier's impermeable nature. By suppressing transcytosis, these essential fatty acids inhibit the formation of caveolae, a type of vesicle that facilitates molecule transport across cells.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateMay 4, 2017

Scientists use satellites to count endangered birds from space

Researchers can now count individual birds on remote islands using high-resolution satellite images, allowing for more accurate monitoring of endangered albatross populations. This innovative method is a significant step forward in tracking these iconic birds, which breed in some of the world's most inaccessible locations.

SourceWiley·JournalIbis·DateMay 4, 2017

Reasons for eczema susceptibility uncovered

Researchers at Newcastle University have identified the key role of filaggrin in triggering eczema by creating a human model system that mimics the skin condition. This discovery provides new understanding of the mechanisms involved and suggests targets for future drug development.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMay 4, 2017

Treatment seeks to address exacerbations of COPD

A new study investigates the use of oxygen therapy via high-flow nasal tubes in patients with COPD experiencing exacerbations. The short-term trial found lower retained carbon dioxide levels compared to standard oxygen therapy, suggesting a potential benefit.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateMay 4, 2017