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Science News Archive March 2008 - Page 9


Page 9 of 19

Wine labels with animals: Why they work

Researchers found that consumers associate animal logos more strongly with themselves than traditional product-related logos. This association enhances brand evaluation and recognition. The study's findings challenge conventional branding wisdom, suggesting unique visual identifiers can be effective in marketing.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2008

Bonn scientists discover new hemoglobin type

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a new hemoglobin type that appears to transport less oxygen than normal. This discovery was made after examining two patients with low oxygen levels in their blood, who did not show any signs of cardiac defects. The new type of haemoglobin, named Haemoglobin Bonn, can distort oxygen...

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalClinical Chemistry·DateMar 17, 2008

London's HIV epidemic was driven by clusters of sexual contacts

The rapid growth of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in London during the late 1990s was driven by transmission within clusters of sexual contacts, with individuals frequently passing the virus to others after becoming infected. Phylogenetic analysis revealed six large clusters and many smaller ones based on genetic relatedness of HIV viruses.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 17, 2008

Mercury's shifting, rolling past

Researchers propose that mantle convection played a role in forming Mercury's lobate scarps, contrary to earlier theories. The simulations suggest that upwellings from mantle convection take on a linear roll shape, distinct from other planets' features.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 17, 2008

Fake diamonds help jet engines take the heat

Researchers at Ohio State University are developing a technology to coat turbine blades with zirconium dioxide, also known as synthetic diamond, to combat high-temperature corrosion. The coating converts corrosive particles into a protective outer layer, renewing itself constantly.

SourceOhio State University·JournalActa Materialia·DateMar 17, 2008

Novel spots found on Jupiter

Researchers have found unexpected luminous spots on Jupiter's atmosphere caused by the moon Io's volcanic eruptions. The discovery challenges previous models of the Io footprint and reveals a new interpretation where beams of electrons travel from one hemisphere to another.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 17, 2008

From Green Luddite to Techspressive: The ideology of consumer technology

Four main ideologies governing tech consumption are outlined in a new paper, including the Techtopian ideology promoting social betterment through tech development. The study reveals that each promise offered by these ideologies is ultimately unrealizable, driving consumers to seek completion through ceaseless technology adoption.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2008

Making protected areas pay biodiversity dividends

A new essay proposes revising protected area categories to reflect biodiversity outcomes, with potential huge implications for preserving the earth's rapidly diminishing biodiversity. The change aims to make significant gains in biodiversity conservation and stanch species loss, habitat destruction, and ecosystem services degradation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 17, 2008

New study: Pycnogenol improves memory in elderly

A double-blind study found Pycnogenol improved both numerical and spatial working memory in senior citizens. The antioxidant extract reduced oxidative stress markers, indicating a potential role in preserving or enhancing mental functions.

SourceMWW Group·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateMar 17, 2008

The big gamble

The banking crisis is attributed to unrealistic expectations of high returns on equity and poor risk management, according to economist Paul J.J. Welfens. The crisis will persist if regulatory systems are not improved and sustainable investment strategies are not promoted.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Economics and Economic Policy·DateMar 17, 2008

Does touch affect flavor? Study finds that how a container feels can affect taste

A recent study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that the feel of a container can significantly impact consumer perceptions of taste and quality. Low autotelics, those who tend to avoid touching products, were more negatively affected by flimsy cups, while high autotelics showed no significant difference.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2008

Chikungunya virus and maternal infection; and more

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that Chikungunya virus-infected mothers rarely harm infants early in pregnancy but can cause severe problems, including brain injury, in babies born near the time of delivery. Researchers recommend clinicians monitor babies exposed to chikungunya around delivery for supportive treatment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 17, 2008

Study examines changes in quality of life after head and neck cancer treatment

Patients with head and neck cancer experience declines in physical quality of life due to treatments such as feeding tube placement, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, their mental health quality of life improves after one year, suggesting the importance of addressing depression and smoking cessation in treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateMar 17, 2008

Asia's odd-ball antelope faces migration crisis

A recent study found a narrow corridor of habitat in Mongolia threatened by herders and increased traffic, posing a migration bottleneck for the endangered saiga antelope. The species, known for its distinctive nose, has seen its numbers plummet by 95% due to poaching and competition with livestock.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalThe Open Conservation Biology Journal·DateMar 17, 2008