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Science News for June 14, 2012


Switchable nano magnets

Researchers at Kiel University have successfully switched the magnetism of individual molecules using electrons, paving the way for molecular data storage. The study, published in Angewandte Chemie, demonstrates the technical feasibility of storing information in a single molecule.

SourceKiel University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 14, 2012

Befuddled by emergency birth control

A Northwestern University study found that many college students cannot track down reliable information on emergency contraception pills (ECPs) online. Only two-thirds of the participants were able to conclude that their friend should seek ECPs, with fewer than half providing the ideal response.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPolicy & Internet·DateJun 14, 2012

Why doctors still rely on century-old heart test

The exercise stress test remains an essential tool for diagnosing coronary artery disease, particularly in patients who can exercise. The test is non-invasive and can be administered in doctor's offices, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution.

SourceMediaSource·JournalCurrent Problems in Cardiology·DateJun 14, 2012

Power-generating knee strap hints at end for batteries

Researchers have created a novel energy harvester that can power body-monitoring devices by walking, offering a potential solution to the heavy battery burden on soldiers. The device, designed to fit onto the outside of the knee joint, generates electricity through vibrations caused by plectra plucking energy-generating arms.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalSmart Materials and Structures·DateJun 14, 2012

Sexual minority women are often victims of abuse

A new study reveals that lesbian and bisexual women, particularly those who identify as more butch or femme, are at higher risk of childhood abuse and adult sexual assault. The research highlights the importance of considering gender identity and expression in targeted assessments and interventions for this vulnerable population.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJun 14, 2012

Global science

The new book concludes that American science is in good health, with traditional values helping the nation maintain its strength. While there are areas of concern, such as declining scientists' earnings and a decline in academic positions, the authors argue that globalization promotes efficiency through knowledge sharing.

Lessons learned from the 'ethical odyssey' of an HIV trial

The HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 052 study faced significant ethical challenges as it investigated the use of antiretroviral treatment to prevent sexual transmission of HIV. The trial's findings provide valuable insights into managing ethical difficulties in research, while also shedding light on the importance of balancing sci...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Trials·DateJun 14, 2012

Take-home methadone maintenance treatment associated with decreased hospital admissions

A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found that patients receiving take-home methadone doses had 74% lower odds of hospitalization compared to those not receiving these doses. The study suggests that successful addiction treatment, including better overall health and reduced healthcare utilization, is a key facto...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateJun 14, 2012

Childhood virus infection linked to prolonged seizures with fever

A new study published in Epilepsia found that human herpesviruses (HHV)-6B and HHV-7 are associated with febrile status epilepticus (FSE) cases, accounting for one-third of FSE cases. The study suggests a possible link between these viruses and the development of epilepsy, particularly temporal lobe epilepsy.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateJun 14, 2012

Stanford engineers perfecting carbon nanotubes for highly energy-efficient computing

A team of Stanford engineers has made breakthroughs in carbon nanotube circuits, providing a ten-times improvement in energy efficiency over silicon. They have overcome major barriers, including alignment and metallic contamination, using a unique imperfection-immune design paradigm.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalIEEE Transactions on Computer-Aided Design of Integrated Circuits and Systems·DateJun 14, 2012

Warm climate -- cold Arctic?

Researchers used sediment cores to study climate conditions during the Eemian period, which may not be a suitable analogue for current climate change. The Atlantic Ocean showed higher-than-Holocene temperature signals, while the Nordic Seas indicated cold conditions, suggesting a significant difference in oceanic circulation.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 14, 2012

U of M public health researchers lead effort to find genetic proof of coronary artery disease risk

University of Minnesota public health researchers found two high-signal genetic markers correlated with coronary artery disease, which may help define genetic fingerprints for increased risk. The study analyzed data from over 75,000 patients and offers biological and clinical data supporting future research into the genetic markers.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Academic Health Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 14, 2012

Making the invisible visible

Clinicians must address the immediate safety issue of a gun in the home to effectively engage rural parents in preventing youth suicide. The study found that relating one's own experience with guns increases credibility with parents.

SourceTemple University·JournalChild & Family Social Work·DateJun 14, 2012

A sea of broken promises

A review of global ocean commitments has shown little success over the past 20 years. Despite international agreements, governments have failed to meet targets for protecting vulnerable species and marine habitats, leading to increased fish stock depletion and ecosystem destruction.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalScience·DateJun 14, 2012

Special Alan Turing issue Fundamenta Informaticae published

The journal Fundamenta Informaticae publishes a special issue commemorating Alan Turing's work on reaction-diffusion theory, which is considered a foundation of chaos theory and theoretical biology. The issue explores the applications of mathematical theories inspired by Turing's work to natural phenomena.

SourceIOS Press·JournalFundamenta Informaticae·DateJun 14, 2012

New open-access journal fills niche for addictions research

The International Journal of Alcohol and Drug Research (IJADR) aims to address the lack of addiction research in low- and middle-income countries by publishing peer-reviewed papers on cross-cultural perspectives. The journal offers a mentoring program for non-native English researchers, further enhancing its unique features.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalThe International Journal of Alcohol and Drug Research·DateJun 14, 2012

Catching some rays

Scientists have developed more efficient organic solar cells by harnessing the power of polarized excitons. This breakthrough could make solar energy a cost-effective alternative to conventional sources. Researchers are exploring new materials to improve efficiency and competitiveness.

Ptooey!

A new study found that a plant's toxic 'mustard oil bomb' makes mice spit out its seeds when eating the fruit, aiding seed dispersal. This discovery illustrates the first known case of directed deterrence in a single species.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 14, 2012

Virtual colonoscopy without laxative equals standard in identifying clinically significant polyps

A new method of virtual colonoscopy, administered without laxatives, has been shown to be as accurate as conventional colonoscopy in detecting potentially cancerous polyps. The procedure uses a CT scanner and a tagging agent to identify polyps, and was found to detect clinically significant polyps with 91% accuracy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 14, 2012