Articles tagged with Beaches
A new study reveals that coral reefs are experiencing abnormal die-off rates, unlike anything seen in the past 11,000 years. The frequency of reef disturbances was at least an order of magnitude less than today's levels, according to Associate Professor John Pandolfi.
Researchers have found a unique habitat on Crosby Beach where Elminius modestus barnacles thrive, offering insights into factors influencing colonisation. The hard surface of the statues provides an ideal environment for settlement and growth.
A recent study found that most adult beachgoers accurately reported their sun habits, with moderate to substantial agreement between self-report measures and objective procedures. The study used a novel sunscreen-swabbing procedure in real-world conditions, providing valuable insights into the validity of self-report sun habits.
Conservation assessments of endangered Caribbean sea turtles are overly optimistic due to a lack of focus on declining turtle populations on historically important nesting beaches. The study highlights the critical importance of re-establishing lost nesting sites to prevent permanent population decline.
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation in Florida beach mice that affects their coat color, revealing a possible explanation for the evolution of similar color patterns in extinct mammoths. The study also sheds light on the complex genetic process underlying coat pattern generation in mammals.
Researchers found that coastal bluffs and cliffs are a significant source of sand in Southern California beaches, accounting for half of the sand in the Oceanside Littoral Cell. The study uses laser-scanning technology to quantify bluff erosion with high accuracy, challenging conventional assumptions about beach sand supply.
The study revealed significant changes to the island, including beach erosion and overwash deposition. The data will be used to develop computer models predicting coastal impacts from severe storms.
Experts from the American Institute of Biological Sciences assess dredge-and-fill programs to protect coastlines, highlighting flaws in current practices. The studies aim to identify areas for improvement and promote more effective ecological monitoring.
Researchers found that levels of enterococci bacteria were higher at beaches during full and new moon phases, increasing the risk of illness. The study suggests using tidal patterns as a tool for assessing water quality and identifying potential sources of pollution.
A new MS drug, AVP-923, has shown significant improvement in reducing pseudobulbar affect episodes, with 84% of patients reporting betterment compared to 49% on placebo. The treatment also led to overall improvements in quality of life and reduction in pain.
A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology suggests that long-term use of ibuprofen may lower the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The research found a 35% lower risk among ibuprofen users compared to non-users, with risks decreasing depending on weekly dosage.
A recent study found that women with ischemic stroke are less likely to receive diagnostic tests than men, despite having worse outcomes. Sixty-two percent of all deaths from stroke in the US occur in women, highlighting a need for increased access to tests and education.
A recent study conducted in Norway found that bright Arctic light can trigger migraines in women with aura. The research revealed that nearly half of those with migraine with aura experienced more frequent attacks during the summer light season than during the polar winter season.
A study of 20 male golfers with and without the yips found that those with yips had abnormal muscle activity in their forearms before impact. Golfers with yips were also older and had higher handicaps than those without yips, who had fewer errors and made more putts.
A new physical therapy technique, Souchard's global postural re-education, has shown significant improvement in chronic back pain patients. The method involves stretching and strengthening of para-spinal muscles to correct posture and decompress the spinal canal, resulting in pain relief for 92% of participants.
A new study found that erythropoietin reduced inflammation and cell death, improving functional recovery after hemorrhagic stroke in rats. The treatment also showed decreases in brain water content and increases in behavioral recovery.
The American Academy of Neurology presented Leeza Gibbons with the Public Leadership in Neurology Award for her advocacy work on Alzheimer's disease. Her foundation, Leeza's Place, provides community-based locations offering comfort, education, and care to those affected by memory disorders.
A recent study reveals that individuals with essential tremor are at a significantly higher risk of developing dementia. The research followed 202 people with essential tremor and found that 7.4% developed dementia over an average period of three years, compared to 3.5% in the control group.
Patients on statins before a stroke had a 1.6 times higher chance of favorable outcomes compared to those not taking statins. Statin use after a stroke was associated with a 2.6 times increased probability of recovery.
Dr. Morris and Dr. Petersen have developed methods to detect preclinical Alzheimer's disease, a precursor to the onset of symptoms. Their research has the potential to identify a pre-clinical stage of AD that can be targeted for disease-modifying therapies.
A new University of Southern California study finds that a tsunami in the region could cause significant economic losses, with Long Beach suffering an estimated $3.6 billion in damage. The study estimates potential damage ranging from $7 billion to $42 billion, with effects felt across Southern California.
A study of 34 metropolitan areas found that San Francisco and New York City had high percentages of people who walk or bike for recreation and transportation, respectively. Parkland acreage was also positively associated with walking and bicycling levels, suggesting a link between urban green spaces and physical activity.
A study of 265 pairs of caregivers and care recipients found that spouses are more likely to be abusive when experiencing health problems or caring for a needy spouse. Researchers warn that such situations should trigger screening and intervention efforts to protect the elderly person.
Researchers study the impact of hurricanes on coral reefs in South Florida, finding a temporary removal of invasive seaweed. However, experts caution that without addressing nutrient pollution and its root causes, reefs will remain vulnerable to similar problems.
A new camera system and software may reveal clues about how ocean currents affect erosion, as well as near-shore phenomena like rip currents. The findings suggest a more complicated picture of water movement than previously thought, requiring researchers to re-examine ideas about beach erosion and repair strategies.
A systematic review by the Task Force on Community Preventive Services found that teaching children how to protect themselves from the sun can reduce risk of skin cancers. Younger children are more receptive to self-protective behaviors and benefit from sun-protection programs integrated into existing learning situations.
The discovery of five-toed tracks at Blue Beach in Nova Scotia suggests that pentadactyl tetrapods evolved tens of millions of years earlier than thought. The find contradicts the prevailing idea that polydactyl feet were more common among early tetrapods.
USC researchers warn that a strong earthquake could trigger a tsunami in San Pedro Bay, potentially devastating the largest container ports in the US. The study found that a magnitude 7.6 earthquake could cause waves to build to nine feet inside the harbor, threatening ships and coastal areas.
Researchers use physics and transportation theory to define a network of spatial spread of contagious disease. The models accurately predicted the spread of childhood diseases like measles and animal diseases like phocine distemper.
A national partnership of public health organizations is launching a new initiative to educate the public on the need to stay involved in monitoring and maintaining healthy pools. The Healthy Pools campaign aims to correct misconceptions about swimming pool health, offering tips on recognizing risky facilities and promoting cleaner pools.
A Stanford University study suggests that beach groundwater can be a source of pollution, contaminating the surf zone during extreme tides. The researchers found high levels of bacteria and nitrates in the aquifer beneath Huntington Beach, which was closed for two months in 1999 due to high bacterial counts.
A recent study by URI graduate student found that off-road vehicles significantly impact beach ecosystems, with a 30-50% decrease in invertebrate populations on beaches where driving is allowed. The research highlights the importance of protecting the wrack line, which serves as a crucial habitat for many species.
A study led by University of Central Florida researchers found that loggerhead sea turtles are laying eggs 10 days earlier than in the past, with near-shore ocean temperatures increasing by nearly 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit between 1989 and 2003. This change raises concerns about the turtles' food supplies and hatchling survival rates.
Researchers found urban surfers reported almost twice as many symptoms as rural surfers due to water exposure. The study suggests current pollution guidelines may not be sufficient to protect public health from general water runoff.
Researchers found that exposure to polluted coastal waters increased the risk of fever, stomach pain, and other symptoms in surfers. The study, which surveyed 1,873 participants at two California beaches, highlighted the importance of reducing pollutants discharged onto public beaches.
A study found that California's beach warning system incorrectly notifies the public about coastal water quality up to 41% of the time. The research identified tidal outlets as major contributors to pollution along the shore, suggesting a need for improved warning systems and approaches to managing storm runoff.
A mathematical equation called the Bruun rule is being misused to predict future beach erosion due to its complexity and limited applicability. Experts argue that the rule has never been shown to provide accurate predictions, even under ideal conditions.
Researchers tracked individual UVR dose patterns and sun exposure in a large cohort of Danish volunteers. They found that indoor workers were exposed to the least UVR, while gardeners received the most, and children's UVR exposure increased with age.
Fossilized ghost crabs, up to 110,000 years-old, have been found on area beaches in central Florida. The rare discovery suggests that beach erosion, possibly caused by the construction of Port Canaveral, has exposed fossils that were previously hidden by dunes.
Researchers investigate how La Jolla and Scripps Canyons near San Diego impact waves, currents, and beaches. The study uses a multidisciplinary approach with sensors, aircraft, and autonomous underwater vehicles to gather data on the dynamic nearshore environment.
Researchers tracked Miss Pearl's epic journey and welcomed her back to her nesting beach in Nicaragua after three years, gaining crucial insights into hawksbill sea turtle behavior and habitat protection. The satellite transmitter on Miss Pearl's back provided vital information on her location and diving patterns.
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a new index that can accurately predict days with high risk of rip currents, allowing for timely lifeguard deployments and potential beach closures. The model was tested in Volusia County, where lifeguards reported an average of 686 rip-current rescues annually.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a prototype software program called InfoCanvas, which creates an abstract pictorial representation of information people want to monitor. The canvas displays on a separate monitor and uses icons to represent different data elements, gradually changing as information updates.
Sarah Billington and Alexandria Boehm, two Stanford professors, are pioneering research in earthquake-resistant construction and coastal water quality. Their work aims to improve infrastructure sustainability and environmental protection.
Researchers are studying the efficacy of bovine growth hormone in tilapia aquaculture and developing methods for its treatment. Additionally, computer models predict physical impacts of offshore dredging on coastal beaches, and a new publication from Delaware Sea Grant examines port security measures.
The Office of Naval Research is developing a suite of technologies to help sailors and Marines avoid mines during amphibious landings. The systems, including Moving Map, Augmented Reality Visualization, and Expeditionary Warfare Decision Support System, aim to reduce the risk of accidents by providing real-time navigation data.
A UCI study reveals a new method to identify and track specific sources of water pollution at beaches by combining bacteria sampling with genetic testing. The approach has already led to significant reductions in bacteria levels and beach closures in Catalina Island.
A team of Stanford engineers is working on a computer code capable of tracking massive internal waves that can contain enough energy to move pollutants and debris long distances. The SUNTANS project aims to identify vulnerable beaches and coastal habitats, allowing for early prediction and protection.
A recent study found a strong correlation between beach pollution and lunar cycles, tidal forces, and sunlight exposure. This could lead to inaccurate warnings and economic losses for local businesses.
Jenny LaGesse is studying ancient North Carolina coastlines by analyzing cores and outcrops to understand rock types, stacking patterns, and changes over time. Her research aims to produce models with worldwide applications in environments similar to the Paleogene of North Carolina.
Researchers studied surf water quality at Huntington Beach, Calif., and found that flawed sampling methods may be responsible for beach closings. The study highlights the complexity of controlling coastal water quality and raises questions about existing monitoring programs.
Researchers will investigate how wetland landscape, circulation features, and restoration strategies affect fecal pollution levels. The study aims to resolve the controversy over whether coastal wetlands generate or filter out fecal pollution, with potential implications for beach water quality and habitat preservation.
Cornell University marine biologists have found Japanese shore crabs in Penobscot Bay, a species that poses a direct threat to soft-shell clams, mussels, and lobsters. The discovery means the bay has become the most-northern point along the Atlantic seaboard where these invasive crabs have been spotted.
Researchers studying eBay data identified four trends that explain price fluctuations in online auctions: the weekend effect, picture effect, reputation score effect, and auction length effect. These factors impact final prices of rare coin transactions on eBay.
Research suggests that seawalls may have no significant long-term effect on beach behavior, despite causing active erosion during storms. Geologists consider factors such as sediment transport rates and beach erosion to determine net long-term erosion.
Researchers at the University of Florida have concluded that the few remaining populations of beach mice on the Florida and Alabama coasts are in substantial danger of extinction from hurricanes and continuing loss of habitat to development. The study predicts a 37-57% chance of extinction in 25 years and a 59-80% chance in 50 years.
Researchers found that warmer temperatures will allow the Asian tiger mosquito to breed faster and potentially spread farther north, possibly surviving year-round in areas where winter freezes now kill it off. The study also suggests that global warming may alter the distribution of other mosquito species, with potentially severe conse...
Researchers at Ohio State University have created a new way to map ocean currents using a single video camera with special software, comparing favorably to expensive electronic sensors. This method could help scientists better understand erosion and develop effective management strategies.
Two new studies by researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, link El Niño winters to increased coastal erosion and shifting sands along California's central coast. The findings show that damaging coastal storms are three times more likely to occur during an El Niño winter than in other years.
A study by Canadian and Penn State researchers found that butterfly ballots are more confusing than single-column ballots, potentially leading to errors in voting. The team tested the ballots with students and adults, finding that those using butterfly ballots rated them as more confusing and made systematic errors in voting.