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Science News Archive 2009 - Page 274


Page 274 of 277

Heavy pyridine crystallizes differently

Researchers have discovered that deuterated pyridine adopts a different crystalline form than its normal counterpart, only achievable under high pressure. This finding has implications for the development of more specific and effective pharmaceutical agents.

SourceWiley·DateJan 8, 2009

Study finds more effective treatment for pneumonia following influenza

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered a more effective treatment for secondary pneumonia following influenza, using antibiotics like clindamycin and azithromycin. These treatments inhibit protein synthesis, reducing inflammation and improving survival rates in mice infected with both conditions.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJan 8, 2009

New tool enables powerful data analysis

A new algorithm developed by scientists at University of California, Davis, can extract features and patterns from huge data sets using minimal computing power. The algorithm has been successfully applied to analyze complex phenomena represented by billions of data points.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·DateJan 8, 2009

Reactions to racism not as strong as we think

A new study published in Science found that people's reactions to racist comments are much more muted than anticipated. The study, led by York University researchers, revealed that students were more likely to choose a partner who made a racist comment as a workmate, despite the comment being perceived as offensive.

SourceYork University·JournalScience·DateJan 8, 2009

Spirituality is key to kids' happiness

A new study published in Springer's Journal of Happiness Studies found that children who develop a strong sense of personal worth and deep relationships, measures of spirituality, are happier. The study suggests that strategies like expressing kindness and volunteering may help increase happiness in children.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateJan 8, 2009

Sea level rise of 1 meter within 100 years

Researchers used historical data and ice core analysis to calculate the relationship between global temperature and sea level over 2000 years. The new model predictions indicate a sea level rise of 0.9-1.3 meters, exceeding IPCC estimates due to faster-than-expected ice sheet melting.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateJan 8, 2009

Floods to become commonplace by 2080

New research by Newcastle University forecasts that UK flooding events will increase in intensity and frequency, with a predicted 30% rise in extreme rainfall by 2080. Northern and western regions are expected to be worst hit, with major implications for flood risk management.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalInternational Journal of Climatology·DateJan 8, 2009

Polarized light pollution leads animals astray

A recent study published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment reveals that polarized light pollution can trigger animal behaviors leading to injury and death. Artificial light sources can attract or repulse animals, causing them to migrate incorrectly, choose poor nesting sites, or become trapped by reflective surfaces.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJan 7, 2009

Tilting at wind farms

Researchers develop a novel control method to mitigate wind speed variations by leveraging rotor inertia as energy storage. This approach reduces the need for external energy storage facilities, improving overall wind farm efficiency.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Power Electronics·DateJan 7, 2009

Director experience with acquisitions improves firm performance

A new study in Strategic Management Journal examines how outside directors' prior experience influences a firm's acquisitions. The study finds that firms with experienced directors make better acquisition decisions, especially when the acquired products are similar to those being pursued by the firm.

SourceWiley·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateJan 7, 2009

Women's access to donated kidneys declines with age, particularly compared with men

Younger women have equivalent access to kidney transplants as their male counterparts. However, older women receive transplants significantly less frequently than older men. The study found that for every age group analyzed, women had a similar or slightly higher survival benefit from transplantation compared to men.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 7, 2009