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Science News Archive April 2014 - Page 10


Page 10 of 32

Ask yourself: Will you help the environment?

A Concordia University study found that consumers are more likely to buy eco-friendly products if they predict their own sustainable shopping behavior and feel observed. The study also discovered that this effect is stronger for individuals who define themselves based on social ties and peer opinions.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateApr 22, 2014

AMP publishes curriculum recommendations for medical laboratory scientists

The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) released a report recommending a molecular diagnostics curriculum for medical laboratory scientists, balancing accreditation, certification, and job market needs. The recommendations aim to prepare future scientists for high-complexity testing and support the growth of genomic technology.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateApr 22, 2014

Grasp of SQUIDs dynamics facilitates eavesdropping

Researchers have developed an analytical approximation to study SQUID dynamics, enabling faster computation and evaluation of sensitivity in magnetometers. The technique, used for low-noise amplifiers and antennas, reduces simulation time to practically zero.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateApr 22, 2014

Getting at the root of the mountain pine beetle's rapid habitat expansion and forest

Researchers analyzed the mountain pine beetle's genome and identified potential genetic markers that enable its rapid habitat range expansion. The study found that the beetles can adjust their cellular functions to withstand cooler climates, facilitating a larger geographic dispersal area.

Mantis shrimp stronger than airplanes

Researchers develop composite material with improved impact resistance and toughness inspired by mantis shrimp's club, which accelerates underwater faster than a 22-caliber bullet. The new design structure shows less external damage and increased residual strength after impact compared to standard aerospace materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateApr 22, 2014

Mysteries of a nearby planetary system's dynamics now are solved

A team of astronomers has developed a viable model for the planetary system orbiting the star 55 Cancri, solving long-standing mysteries about the masses and orbits of its two giant planets. The study reveals that their particular masses and orbits are preventing the system from self-destructing anytime soon.

SourcePenn State·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 22, 2014

Nanomaterial outsmarts ions

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf and Vienna University of Technology created ultra-thin membranes that allow highly charged ions to pass through with little energy loss. This discovery has significant implications for developing novel electronic components made of graphene.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 22, 2014

Nanoreporters tell 'sour' oil from 'sweet'

Rice University scientists have created a nanoscale detector that checks for and reports on the presence of hydrogen sulfide in crude oil and natural gas while they're still in the ground. The detection method is sensitive enough to detect low concentrations, making it an important tool for improving safety and efficiency in oil fields.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 22, 2014

Protein expression gets the heart pumping

Using mouse models, researchers identified a protein that regulates alternative splicing and affects heart contraction and function during postnatal development. CELF1 protein plays a crucial role in regulating certain alternative splicing events, which are associated with endocytosis and vesicular trafficking.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 22, 2014