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Science News for November 22, 2011


Robojelly gets an upgrade

Researchers at VirginiaTech have improved Robojelly's performance by introducing a flexible margin, reducing folding and increasing speed. The upgrade provides new insights into jellyfish propulsion mechanisms, enabling the robot to detect chemical spills, monitor ships and submarines, and observe fish migration.

Great Lakes fish feed on invading shrimp

Researchers found that several native fish species have incorporated the bloody red shrimp into their diet over multi-seasonal periods. The study suggests these fish are adapting to the invasive species, alleviating concerns about its impact on native populations.

SourceQueen's University·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateNov 22, 2011

Surprising pathway implicated in stuttering

A new study found that mutations in a gene called NAGPA, which affects lysosomal function, are associated with persistent stuttering. The research provides evidence that impairment in cellular recycling centers may play a role in causing some people to stutter.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 22, 2011

When friends fail them, girls hurt worse than boys

A new report from Boston College and Duke University finds that girls are more devastated than boys when friends let them down. The study examined fourth- and fifth-grade children and found that girls interpreted friendship transgressions in a negative way, leading to increased anger and aggression.

SourceBoston College·JournalChild Development·DateNov 22, 2011

Girls feel more anger, sadness than boys when friends offend

A Duke University study found that pre-teen girls are just as likely to react aggressively to a friend's betrayal as boys, but may struggle more with feelings of sadness. The research suggests that girls' friendships require a different approach than previously thought, focusing on teaching them how to cope when a friend lets them down.

SourceDuke University·JournalChild Development·DateNov 22, 2011

Is sustainability science really a science?

Researchers from Los Alamos National Laboratory and Indiana University analyzed the field's evolution, composition, and collaboration structure. The study concludes that sustainability science is both applied and basic, spanning worldwide institutions and governments. A global collaboration network emerged around 2000, defining the fie...

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 2011

Hefty impact of poor eating habits

A Concordia University study found that 25% of Canadians aged 31 to 50 exceed the safe limit of total calories derived from fats. Individuals who eat well are 20% less likely to be obese, according to the researchers.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Primary Care & Community Health·DateNov 22, 2011

Awareness biases information processing

A new study found that conscious awareness influences information processing during decision making, leading to non-linear integration strategies. Participants who were aware of the evidence weighted new information based on their existing knowledge.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 22, 2011

Depression and anxiety not linked to delayed resolution of abnormal mammograms, Pap tests

Research from Boston University School of Medicine found no association between depression and delayed diagnostic resolution after abnormal mammograms or Pap tests. Women with psychiatric disorders face disparities in cancer screening and outcomes, but this study suggests pre-existing depression is not a significant barrier to resolution.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateNov 22, 2011

The best way to market fine wine: Teach and learn or wine and dine?

A recent study published in Cornell Hospitality Quarterly found that novice wine consumers can be swayed by advertising and create stronger memories when they have a better understanding of the product's background. To combat this, wine producers are advised to combine tasting experiences with educational materials.

SourceSAGE·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateNov 22, 2011

Physical activity impacts overall quality of sleep

A new study found that 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week significantly improves sleep quality, with participants feeling less sleepy during the day. The study's results support mounting research linking regular exercise to various health benefits, including improved daytime alertness.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMental Health and Physical Activity·DateNov 22, 2011

Seals show different levels of parenting skills

Researchers found that seal mothers adopt a wide range of mothering styles, with some being very attentive while others are not. The study also revealed large differences in response to potential dangers among both female and male seals, with no correlation to age or size.

SourceDurham University·JournalMarine Mammal Science·DateNov 22, 2011

Stigma among HIV-positive women complex and overlapping

A study by Mona Loutfy and colleagues found that women experience a complex system of stigma related to HIV, sexism, racism, homophobia, and sex work. The researchers identified resilience, social networks, and challenging stigma as effective coping strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 22, 2011

Why has synesthesia survived evolution?

Researchers find synesthesia is an authentic phenomenon with sensory basis, common among artists and novelists. The 'synesthesia gene' may have evolved to make highly creative individuals more prone to link unrelated ideas.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 22, 2011

Olympic Villages: Catalyst for urban renewal, or post-Games hangover?

Cities' grandiose Olympic Village projects often prioritize private sector interests over public good, leading to significant financial burdens on taxpayers. Sociologist Jay Scherer's research highlights the importance of democratic transparency in such partnerships, emphasizing the need for community benefits and fair risk distribution.