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Science News for February 25, 2011


Floating solar panels

The AQUASUN project develops a new paradigm in energy production by floating solar panels on water, reducing the need for land-based installations. The technology combines solar cells with a cooling system using water to increase efficiency and reduce costs, while maintaining environmental sustainability.

SourceEUREKA·DateFeb 25, 2011

Mission to extra-solar planets approved

The European Space Agency has approved a £400 million mission to study extra-solar planets, led by UCL, to look for signs of life in nearby star systems. The Exoplanet Characterisation Observatory (EChO) will use a 1.2 meter telescope to analyze the atmospheres of habitable planets and search for biomarkers.

Listening to music is biological

Researchers studied 437 family members aged 8-93, finding a strong link between active music listening, creativity, and genetic variations associated with AVPR1A gene. The study provides molecular evidence of sound's role in social communication and attachment behavior.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 25, 2011

4 faculty receive WUN support for global research partnerships

Four Penn State faculty have been selected to participate in collaborative projects with international partners on various topics, including ocean acidification, earth surface sedimentary flow processes, climate change adaptation, and public health. The partnerships aim to address global issues and promote interdisciplinary research.

Happy children make happy adults

A new study found that teenagers rated positively by their teachers had higher levels of well-being later in life, including higher work satisfaction and more frequent social activities. Happy children were also less likely to develop mental disorders throughout their lives.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateFeb 25, 2011

Viral infection not responsible for exacerbation of lung disease in most patients

Researchers found no evidence of viral infection causing acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in most patients. Instead, torque teno virus (TTV) was detected in lung fluid samples from a small percentage of IPF patients, suggesting it may be a marker of lung injury rather than a cause.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2011

Brain imaging provides window into consciousness

Researchers use fMRI to probe for higher-level cognitive functioning in severely brain-injured patients, finding a wide variation in response capabilities. The study suggests that no bedside exam can accurately assess cognitive function in these patients, highlighting the need for further exploration and understanding.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalBrain·DateFeb 25, 2011

Model for managing asthma in preschoolers leads to dramatic drop in ER visits and hospitalizations

A new asthma management program for preschoolers, developed by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, has shown dramatic results in reducing emergency room visits and hospitalizations. The program, which includes educational activities for parents and children, as well as training for healthcare providers, has led to a ...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateFeb 25, 2011

Overfertilizing corn undermines ethanol

A new study by Rice University researchers reveals that overfertilizing corn crops for ethanol production can lead to decreased cellulose content in plant residues, making it more difficult to extract ethanol. The study suggests using less fertilizer can improve feedstock quality and alleviate environmental damage.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 25, 2011