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Science News Archive December 2011 - Page 22


Page 22 of 23

HIV uncertainty pushes Malawians to want children earlier

In Malawi, people with uncertain HIV status are more eager to start families than those who know their status. Researchers found that uncertainty about HIV accelerates childbearing in the country due to cultural factors and the desire for a longer life. The study used an innovative method to measure personal uncertainty, where particip...

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateDec 1, 2011

NASA satellite confirms sharp decline in pollution from US coal power plants

Satellite observations confirm a nearly 40% decline in sulfur dioxide emissions from coal power plants since 2005, with a significant reduction in acid rain and health problems. The Clean Air Interstate Rule implemented in 2005 is credited for the decline, with desulfurization devices and pollution credits contributing to the reduction.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 1, 2011

Seismology tip sheet for Dec. 2011: BSSA

Scientists have developed procedures to determine earthquake source information for smaller earthquakes in central and eastern North America. This improved catalog provides detailed information on faulting styles and geometry for these regions, contributing to assessing seismic hazards and constraining ground motion.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateDec 1, 2011

Where does my beer come from?

Researchers at the University of Seville have developed a technique to identify beer origins using chemical patterns, distinguishing between German, Spanish and Portuguese beers with high accuracy. The model is based on variables such as aluminium, iron, and polyphenol content, providing valuable insights for the food industry.

Parental controls on embryonic development?

A recent study published in Developmental Cell suggests that the reach of parental control in embryonic development may be longer than thought. The research found evidence that genetic marks from sperm can be passed on to embryos, influencing gene expression later in development.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateDec 1, 2011

Study debunks 6 myths about electricity in the South

A new study by Duke University and Georgia Tech researchers found that energy efficiency and renewable energy can work together to meet projected growth in the South. The study debunks six common myths about clean energy, including those that claim it cannot meet demand or will increase electricity rates.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnergy Policy·DateDec 1, 2011

Outsiders on the front lines

A new study highlights the perspectives of 20 Israeli women soldiers who've served in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, introducing new themes into women's discourse of protest. The research shows that military service can be a source of symbolic capital for women to legitimize criticism of the military and its actions.

SourceSociologists for Women in Society·JournalGender & Society·DateDec 1, 2011

Health gap has grown among young US adults, study finds

Research reveals a growing health disparity among US young adults born since 1980, peaking at middle age before declining in old age. The study attributes the widening gap to factors like income inequality, obesity crisis, and digital divide, which are expected to worsen as younger generations replace older cohorts.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateDec 1, 2011

Vaccine targeting latent TB enters clinical testing

A new TB vaccine candidate has entered Phase I clinical trials in South Africa to assess its safety and immunogenicity in latently infected adults. The vaccine, SSI H56-IC31, has shown efficacy in pre-clinical studies and holds promise for preventing active TB disease in a vast population.

SourceAeras·DateDec 1, 2011

Study identifies most effective ways to assess progression in Huntington's disease, which could speed up development of disease-modifying drugs

A new study has identified the most effective ways to assess progression in Huntington's disease, which could speed up the development of disease-modifying drugs. The findings suggest that measures derived from brain imaging techniques are the most effective at detecting disease progression over time.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateDec 1, 2011

Vaccination with a 1-2 punch effective against TB

Researchers developed a new TB vaccine H56 that reduces clinical disease and prevents reactivation of latent infection when combined with BCG, a current but ineffective vaccine. This breakthrough could lead to improved protection against TB.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2011

La Jolla Institute researchers provide world's first view of Type 1 diabetes as it unfolds

Researchers at La Jolla Institute create cellular movies showing the destruction underlying type 1 diabetes in real-time, providing new insights into disease process and potential therapeutic directions. The studies use two-photon microscope to illuminate cell processes previously extrapolated from photos or lab experiments.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2011

Autism Speaks launches 'Visual Supports' tool kit

The new tool kit provides valuable guidance on utilizing pictures and visual supports to facilitate daily communication, social interactions, and adaptation to new situations. It has been found to decrease challenging behaviors and increase compliance and independence in families who use it.

A vaccination against social prejudice

A new study published in Psychological Science found that vaccination and hand washing can reduce bias against stigmatized groups, including immigrants and the obese. The researchers conducted three experiments, which showed that people who felt secure through these measures exhibited less prejudice towards out-groups.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 1, 2011