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Science News for April 11, 2014


The ATM strikes back

Researchers developed a self-defending surface that releases hot foam to deter attackers, protecting cash boxes in ATMs. The film is made of plastic layers filled with chemicals that mix when damaged, producing a violent reaction.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateApr 11, 2014

New self-healing plastics developed

Scientists at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology have developed a chemical crosslinking reaction that ensures good short-term healing properties of the material under mild heating. The self-healing mechanism can be initiated by heat, light or chemical substance.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 11, 2014

Greenland ice cores show industrial record of acid rain, success of US Clean Air Act

Researchers found evidence of the U.S. Clean Air Act in Greenland ice cores, showing a link between air acidity and nitrogen preservation. The study suggests that the relationship between emissions and isotopes is less direct than thought, with sulfur and nitrogen emissions contributing to the final signal recorded in the ice cores.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2014

The taming of the shrew

Researchers have discovered that the bicolored shrew acts as a 'pathogen reservoir' for the Borna virus, transmitting it to horses. The virus is not directly contagious and requires an intermediate host to spread, highlighting the importance of keeping shrews away from stables to prevent transmission.