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Science News Archive 2012 - Page 135


Page 135 of 333

Adding a '3D print' button to animation software

A group of computer graphics experts led by Harvard researcher Moritz Bächer create a software tool that translates video game characters into fully articulated action figures using 3D printing. The tool optimizes joint placement, size, and location for physical constraints, producing robust and realistic printed figures.

SourceHarvard University·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateJul 31, 2012

Economic recession leads to increased entrepreneurship, MU study finds

A recent economic recession has led to a significant increase in entrepreneurship, particularly among necessity-driven ventures. Research suggests that the number of Americans engaging in self-employment rose significantly during this period, with notable increases in rural entrepreneurship levels and African American participation.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEntrepreneurship Research Journal·DateJul 31, 2012

University of Illinois professor develops tool that helps dietitians deliver info clients need and can understand

A new algorithm developed by a University of Illinois professor helps dietitians determine a client's specific knowledge gaps, enabling them to focus on what the client needs to know. This tool addresses the challenge of inadequate pre-assessment of nutrition literacy among dietitians.

When we forget to remember -- failures in prospective memory range from annoying to lethal

Research on prospective memory reveals that failures occur when we form intentions but lose focus due to interruptions or multitasking. Habital tasks can also lead to implicit intentions, making it harder to remember them. To defend against these failures, professionals use memory tools like checklists and implementation intentions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJul 31, 2012

Higher retail wages correlate with lower levels of employee theft

A study by Clara Xiaoling Chen and Tatiana Sandino found that higher wages are associated with lower levels of employee theft, even after controlling for other factors. The researchers suggest that paying relatively higher wages discourages employee theft as employees wish to retain their job or exhibit positive reciprocity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Accounting Research·DateJul 30, 2012

'... But names could really hurt me'

Child psychological abuse is linked to disorders of attachment, developmental and educational problems, socialization problems and disruptive behaviour. The effects of psychological maltreatment during the first three years of life can be particularly profound.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 30, 2012

New coating evicts biofilms for good

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new coating called SLIPS that can prevent the formation of biofilms on surfaces. The technology, which is smooth and slippery due to an immobilized liquid layer, has been shown to reduce the formation of disease-causing bacteria by up to 96%.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2012

Mechanism of lung cancer-associated mutations suggests new therapeutic approaches

Researchers have identified how EPHA3 gene mutations may promote lung cancer. The study found that loss of the gene diminishes its tumor-suppressive effect, potentially sparking tumor growth. The findings suggest that therapies targeting a downstream pathway may be beneficial for tumors with mutant EPHA3.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 30, 2012

New genetic target found for diuretic therapy

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have identified a new genetic target, pendrin, for diuretic therapy. The study suggests that targeting pendrin could lead to a targeted treatment option for patients with severe fluid overload who may not respond well to current diuretics.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2012

1 in 5 streams damaged by mine pollution in southern West Virginia

A new study by Duke University scientists reveals that surface coal mining is severely impacting water quality in southern West Virginia. The research found that just five percent of upstream land conversion can lead to the degradation of up to 22% of streams, with salinity levels and insect biodiversity declining substantially.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 30, 2012

Diagnostic imaging increases among stage IV cancer patients on Medicare

A study found that stage IV cancer patients on Medicare are more likely to undergo high-cost diagnostic imaging procedures, which may be driven by the increasing number of treatment options available. The use of imaging has steadily increased between 1995 and 2006, with costs rising faster than overall cancer care costs.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 30, 2012