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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 37


Page 37 of 41

Men can smell when a woman is sexually aroused

Researchers at University of Kent found that men can detect the scent of axillary sweat from sexually aroused women, which increases their sexual motivation. The study suggests that chemical signals released by women can elicit a stronger overall signal that enhances human communication.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateMar 3, 2020

Texas A&M researchers develop flooding prediction tool

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a comprehensive statistical framework to predict the evolution of floods in extreme situations like hurricanes. The algorithm considers underground drainage channels to provide an accurate representation of how floods propagate, enabling timelier emergency response.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalComputer-Aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering·DateMar 3, 2020

Why is the female wallaby always pregnant?

Researchers discovered that female swamp wallabies are permanently pregnant throughout their lives due to two uteri, allowing for continuous embryonic development. This unique reproductive strategy enables females to return to oestrus in late pregnancy and conceive new embryos.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2020

With 30,000 surveys, researchers build the go-to dataset for smallholder farms

A team of researchers developed a standardized survey tool to collect data on rural households. The Rural Household Multi-Indicator Survey (RHoMIS) includes over 30,000 interviews from 33 countries and provides insights into smallholder farming practices, climate change, and social inclusion.

Can't sleep? Prebiotics could help

Researchers found that prebiotic dietary fiber can influence gut bacteria and produce bioactive molecules that may modulate stress physiology and sleep. The study used mass spectrometry to analyze rats' fecal samples and found that those on the prebiotic diet had a different metabolome, including higher levels of fatty acids and sugars.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 3, 2020

Does your cat have degenerative joint disease?

A study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery has developed a screening checklist to help diagnose degenerative joint disease (DJD) in cats. The checklist, called the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Screening Checklist, asks owners six questions about their cat's behavior and can be completed quickly by owners.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateMar 3, 2020

Wild boars provide archaeologists with clues to early domestication

Researchers found that captive wild boars developed greater muscle force than their natural counterparts, transforming them into 'bodybuilders'. This study provides a new methodology for archaeologists to analyze domestication processes and could aid in reintroducing captive-bred animals into the wild.

SourceCNRS·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 3, 2020

Tunnel fire safety

A new study assesses road tunnel fire safety mechanisms, finding that increased awareness and education can significantly reduce human life risks. The research highlights the importance of educating commuters on emergency protocols and evacuation procedures in response to a tunnel fire.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalASCE-ASME Journal of Risk and Uncertainty in Engineering Systems Part A Civil Engineering·DateMar 3, 2020