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Science News Archive May 2012 - Page 9


Page 9 of 31

Mystifying materials

Researchers at Northwestern University have designed new metamaterials that exhibit negative compressibility transitions, where they contract when tensioned and expand when compressed. This discovery may enable new applications in protective mechanical devices and actuators.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 23, 2012

Nomads of the galaxy

A recent study proposes that up to 100,000 nomad planets might exist in the Milky Way Galaxy for every star, with an estimated quadrillion number of total nomads. If confirmed, this could mean nomad planets play a significant role in the universe.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 23, 2012

Make no mistake - male bosses' errors matter

A new study reveals that male leaders who make mistakes are viewed as less competent and effective than female leaders in the same situation, with a greater impact on followers in masculine work domains. The researchers found that male leaders' errors are perceived more negatively, leading to decreased follower desire to work for them.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateMay 23, 2012

Taking solar technology up a notch

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new, all-solid-state solar cell that exceeds the performance of traditional Grätzel cells. The device achieves an impressive conversion efficiency of approximately 10.2 percent and is stable over time, addressing key limitations of current solar technology.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateMay 23, 2012

Older-looking presidential candidates preferred during wartime

Researchers suggest that older-looking candidates may have an advantage in wartime elections due to implicit biases towards leaders who appear older and more dominant. The study found that altered images of Barack Obama and John McCain showed a preference for the older-looking version of each candidate.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 23, 2012

New studies show alteplase can benefit stroke patients aged over 80 years and confirm the benefits of rapid treatment with alteplase across age groups

Recent studies have shown that alteplase can benefit stroke patients aged over 80 years, confirming the benefits of rapid treatment across age groups. The trials found that earlier treatment with alteplase resulted in more patients being alive and independent at 6 months, with a significant reduction in disability.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 23, 2012

Civil engineers find savings where the rubber meets the road

A new study by MIT civil engineers finds that stiffer pavements can reduce vehicle fuel consumption by as much as 3 percent and decrease CO2 emissions by 46.5 million metric tons per year, resulting in significant savings and environmental benefits. The study uses mathematical modeling to analyze pavement deflection under vehicle tires...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMay 22, 2012

Doing the tooth implant 2-step

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology concludes that a two-step tooth implantation method is more effective than a one-step process. The research found that implants placed using the two-step procedure show less wear and tear over time, with greater bone stability.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal Of Clinical Periodontology·DateMay 22, 2012

Bias found in mental health drug research presented at major psychiatric meeting

A study analyzing industry-funded studies at psychiatric conferences found that 97.4% reported positive results for medicines being marketed, while non-industry funded studies showed a more balanced outcome. This 'presentation bias' echoes publication bias seen in major journals and may impact clinical care.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychopharmacology·DateMay 22, 2012

Making microscopic machines using metallic glass

Scientists have developed a new technology to mass-produce high-precision molds for making tiny plastic components using bulk metallic glasses. The components can be used in computer memory devices, microscale testing kits, and chemical reactors with microscopic surface patterns.

SourceElsevier·JournalMaterials Today·DateMay 22, 2012