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Science News for June 17, 2005


A good game of golf—mind over matter

Golfers who cope well under stress maintain a positive mindset, use self-talk, and focus on the next shot. Ineffective coping involves trying too hard, speeding up, or changing routines. Golfers at all levels need to practice mental skills to improve performance.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe Sport Psychologist·DateJun 17, 2005

New study: Why solar cells lose potency

A new study suggests that intense light exposure in photovoltaic material a-Si:H leads to undesirable defects by creating silicon dihydride structures. Researchers propose potential solutions, such as adding impurities to block the issue, which could improve solar cell performance and efficiency.

SourceOhio University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 17, 2005

Going to extremes to improve human health

The University of Oregon has developed a new environmental chamber to study the human body's response to everyday stresses. The chamber allows for precise simulation of extreme conditions, including altitude up to 18,000 feet and temperature control between 14 and 122 degrees Fahrenheit.

Insects develop resistance to engineered crops

Researchers found that concurrent use of single- and dual-gene Bt plants can put dual-gene plants at risk if single-gene plants are deployed in the same area. Dual-gene plants expressing two insecticidal proteins offer improved resistance to insects, but may be more vulnerable to resistance development.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2005