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Stealth sharks to patrol the seas

Researchers have created a neural implant that can remotely control shark movements and decode their emotions. The technology has potential applications in understanding animal behavior, boosting research into paralysis, and even using sharks as stealth spies.

Does wooing work?

Consumers demonstrate general reciprocity by rewarding firms for actions with no personal benefit, based on perceived motives. The study's findings suggest that the true motives of firms do not influence consumer responses to effort.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 29, 2005

Staying close to mother helps baby dolphins swim

A study published in Journal of Biology reveals that young dolphins adopt an ideal position to get a 'free ride' in their mother's slipstream, reducing energy required for swimming. This drafting phenomenon helps the calf stay with its mother, but can be disrupted by fishing vessels, potentially impacting dolphin populations.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateMay 3, 2004

It's a stirring tale of bacteria

Researchers observed Bacillus subtilis bacteria moving through fluid in a coordinated pattern, creating swirls and jets that stir the fluid and may aid bacterial detection. The 'self-concentration' phenomenon has potential applications in biotechnology, particularly in mixing minute quantities of solutions.

Fat chance for hosts

A new study reveals that parasitic flatworms use light to locate hosts, while water temperature increases their swimming speed. The findings suggest that the larvae's movement is largely controlled by themselves rather than environmental factors.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateSep 8, 2003

Men, mammals, and machines

A team of Marine Corps reconnaissance swimmers, Navy SEALS, Explosive Ordnance divers, dolphins, and REMUS worked together to clear mines from Iraq's port. REMUS successfully located potential targets, allowing the dolphins to inspect and report back on its findings.

A surfeit of eels...

Researchers are developing robotic lampreys with artificial muscle material, onboard compass, and sonar altimeter to mimic nature in technology. The robots can swim backward and maintain an S-shape during movement, making them ideal for stealthy underwater operations.

Spraying Water Containing Airborne Bacteria Found At Some Indoor Swimming PoolsCan Cause "Lifeguard Lung" Following Long-Term Exposure

A study found that spraying water with airborne bacteria in indoor swimming pools can lead to a lung disease called granulomatous pneumonitis. Lifeguards who worked long hours at pools with water features were most affected, and symptoms included cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 17, 1998