Our most recent issue, Research Features 149, contains an array of fascinating articles spanning a diverse range of current research. We look at an updated model of interstellar material that reveals deeper insights into what happens in the spaces between stars. We also review the pre-emptive measures that can be taken to prevent sudden cardiac deaths during marathons.
AI is not limited to computing on land or in space, as a new application shows how we can make use of AI technology to monitor fish biomass and location. In other marine news, a recent study looks at how penguins see so well, in so many challenging environments.
Back on land, researchers have highlighted the importance of inclusivity and faculty-student relationships in American higher education, as well as identifying what makes Black students persist at school. Finally, we look at the Belief, Events and Values Inventory that examines how and why we are the way we are, and how we can use that understanding to solve real-life problems.
Revealing the properties and structure of the interstellar medium
Space isn’t as empty as it seems – the vast stretches between stars is filled by a mixture of gas and dust called interstellar medium. Previously understood to be warm clouds surrounded by hot gas, new observations might turn this idea on its head.
Marathon running: Blowing the whistle on race-related cardiac arrest
Running a marathon puts strain on the body, and in rare instances can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. While humans have been running long distances for millennia, our hearts can’t always keep up with the strain. But there might be simple pre-emptive measures we can take to reduce the risk.
Unlocking opportunity: The importance of student–faculty interactions in promoting Black students’ academic identity
A bombshell hit American higher education earlier this year when the Supreme Court outlawed race-conscious admissions. As a result, research into the lingering racial gap in US graduations showed what encourages Black students to persist at school.
What’s a penguin’s-eye view on the world?
From murky depths to snow-bright sunlight, penguins need to see in a variety of challenging situations. We still don’t fully understand how penguins’ eyes are as keen as they are, but recent research seems to show that their vision is far sharper than we thought.
Tun-AI – Using echosounder buoy technology to study tuna behaviour at sea
Certain species of fish are uncontrollably attracted to floating objects on the surface, which includes skipjack, yellowfin, and bigeye tuna. Fishing communities have made use of this knowledge to catch fish, and now scientific communities are taking advantage of high tech buoys to provide information on tuna abundance and location.
Into the Beviverse
How important really are our beliefs? According to the Belief, Events and Values Inventory (BEVI), our beliefs and values shape every aspect of our lives. The BEVI model illuminates how our beliefs form us into the people we are, as well as showing how we can best solve real-world problems.
