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Science News Archive June 2011 - Page 19


Page 19 of 28

Can small loans reduce poverty?

A recent study by Yale University economists found that microloans can increase ability to cope with risk and strengthen community ties, but may not lead to increased investment in businesses. The researchers also discovered that awardees' subjective well-being slightly declined, contradicting previous claims.

Radiation after prostate removal is cost-effective, but less likely to be recommended by urologists

A new study by Thomas Jefferson University researchers finds that receiving radiation therapy immediately after a radical prostatectomy is a cost-effective treatment for prostate cancer patients. Urologists were less likely than radiation oncologists to recommend adjuvant radiation therapy or believe it improves overall survival.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateJun 9, 2011

Early agricultural piracy informs the domestication of rice

Rice was domesticated at least twice, with substantial gene sharing between the southern and northern varieties, challenging long-held theories. Researchers found that certain traits were borrowed extensively from one another, leading to a reevaluation of rice's origins.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 9, 2011

Children eschew the fat if dads aren't lenient

A new Texas AgriLife Research study reveals that fathers' role in childhood obesity is more significant than previously thought. Lenient dads are more likely to allow their kids frequent fast-food restaurant visits, which have been linked to obesity. Fathers need education on nutritional content and taking a responsible parenting role.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 9, 2011

Hormone test helps predict success in IVF

A blood test for AMH can help predict IVF success, with women having higher AMH levels yielding more eggs and a higher rate of pregnancy. The study found that women with low AMH levels had an average of six eggs harvested, while those with higher levels had around 20.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJun 9, 2011

The new decade of vaccines

The Lancet's new Series on vaccines highlights four key elements: intensified research, advocacy at the highest level, developing countries' responsibility, and expanded communication of benefits. Experts emphasize the need for $3.7 billion funding to save 4 million lives through immunization programs.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 9, 2011

A new way to make lighter, stronger steel -- in a flash

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new way to make steel 7 percent stronger than any steel on record using a heat-treatment called flash processing. The unique microstructure formed by the process boosts ductility, making it a potential impact-absorber for automotive applications.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMaterials Science and Technology·DateJun 9, 2011