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Science News Archive August 2011 - Page 8


Page 8 of 27

Feeding the five thousand -- or was it three?

Researchers claim most crowd estimations are unreliable due to political bias and have devised new methods for estimating static and mobile crowds with reduced margin of error. The 'area x density' method for static crowds and the 'two-inspection-point' method for mobile crowds can provide more accurate estimates

SourceWiley·JournalSignificance·DateAug 24, 2011

Novel control of Dengue fever

Researchers have successfully controlled Dengue fever in northern Australia by releasing Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes, which suppress the virus and prevent transmission. The study demonstrates a promising approach to eliminating this disease, with potential applications in other regions.

Controlling magnetism with electric fields

Researchers developed a multiferroic material that reacts to both magnetic and electric fields at room temperature, fulfilling a long-held dream. The material's ferromagnetic properties were demonstrated using X-ray magnetic circular dichroism, paving the way for more efficient data storage and logical switches.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 23, 2011

2011 health conditions for travel to Mecca (Hajj) pilgrimage published

The Saudi Ministry of Health has published its 2011 health conditions for travelers to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage. The guidelines outline the full requirements for entry into Saudi Arabia and aim to protect pilgrims from communicable diseases. Travelers are urged to read the guidelines thoroughly.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Infection and Public Health·DateAug 23, 2011

Filling without drilling

Researchers at the University of Leeds have developed a peptide-based fluid that reverses tooth decay by stimulating regeneration of damaged tooth tissue. The treatment is applied directly to the affected area, providing a natural and non-invasive solution to filling teeth without drilling.

Ancient wild horses help unlock past

A team of researchers has found an abundance of genetic diversity in ancient wild horses, contradicting the idea that modern male horses lack diversity due to intrinsic properties. The study suggests that domestication is the main reason for the low genetic diversity in modern stallions.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2011

How many species on Earth? 8.7 million

The most precise estimate of Earth's species total is based on a novel analytical technique that narrows previous estimates. The study predicts approximately 8.7 million species, with 91% of marine and 86% of land species remaining undiscovered. This new understanding is crucial for conservation efforts and ecosystems services.

SourceCensus of Marine Life·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 23, 2011

Fine art in advertising can backfire

A new study by Boston College and the University of Houston found that fine art in advertising can be demoted to a mere product illustration, leading consumers to take a critical view of its message. Art loses its unique powers of communication when viewed as an ordinary image.

SourceBoston College·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 23, 2011

Comparing soybean production methods

A study by USDA-ARS scientist Arnold Bruns compared twin-row and single-row soybean plantings and found that the former yielded more pods per plant without affecting seed yield. Twin-row production resulted in increased yields on both soils, but only minor economic benefits of $75 per hectare. The study highlights the importance of con...

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateAug 23, 2011

Stop signal for leukemia stem cells

Scientists found that high levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) expression are required for leukemia-initiating cell activity in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Blocking IGF1R using inhibitors or reducing its expression significantly impaired leukemia stem cells' self-renewal capacity.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 23, 2011

Social science important for health-systems research

The article highlights the importance of social sciences in Health Policy and Systems Research (HPSR), emphasizing approaches to generalization, policy learning, and enhanced research quality. Social science perspectives are vital for acknowledging the complex nature of health policies and systems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 23, 2011

Extreme morning sickness could lead to lifelong emotional, behavioral disorders in kids

Research finds children of mothers with extreme morning sickness may suffer from anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression as adults. A UCLA-USC study suggests prolonged malnutrition and stress during fetal brain development could contribute to these lifelong neurobehavioral disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateAug 23, 2011