Wednesday, July 15, 2009

ScienceDaily: Latest Science News

ScienceDaily: Latest Science News


Global Warming: Scientists' Best Predictions May Be Wrong

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 11:00 AM PDT

No one knows exactly how much Earth's climate will warm due to carbon emissions, but a new study suggests scientists' best predictions about global warming might be incorrect.

Childhood Cancer Risk Rises With Mother's Age

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 11:00 AM PDT

Research indicates that a baby born to an older mother may have a slightly increased risk for many of the cancers that occur during childhood.

First Remote, Underwater Detection Of Harmful Algae, Toxins

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 11:00 AM PDT

Scientists have successfully conducted the first remote detection of a harmful algal species and its toxin below the ocean's surface.

New Culprit Behind Obesity's Ill Metabolic Consequences

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 11:00 AM PDT

Obesity very often leads to insulin resistance, and now researchers have uncovered another factor behind that ill consequence. The newly discovered culprit is a protein, called PEDF for short, that is secreted by fat cells. They also report evidence to suggest that specifically blocking PEDF action may reverse some of the health complications that come with obesity.

'Copernicium' Proposed As Name For Newly Discovered Element 112

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 11:00 AM PDT

In honor of scientist and astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543), the discovering team have suggested the name "copernicium" with the element symbol "Cp" for the new element 112.

Was SIDS The Cause Of Infant Deaths Even 150 Years Ago?

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 11:00 AM PDT

Nineteenth century infant deaths attributed to smothering and overlaying, by either a co-sleeper or bedding, were in all likelihood crib deaths, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). These deaths would have been mislabeled by lawmakers as neglect and even infanticide, because SIDS had not yet been identified, according to new research.

New Map Hints At Venus's Wet, Volcanic Past

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 08:00 AM PDT

Venus Express has charted the first map of Venus's southern hemisphere at infrared wavelengths. The new map hints that our neighboring world may once have been more Earth-like, with both a plate tectonics system and an ocean of water.

New Doubts About Fasting Leading To Longer Lives Based On Study In Flies

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 08:00 AM PDT

Many studies indicate that caloric restriction extends life spans in fruit flies, mice and, most recently, rhesus monkeys, apparently by slowing the aging process. But virtually all these studies have been performed in sterile environments, on animals raised under relatively pathogen-free conditions. So researchers decided to see if reduced caloric intake also helps creatures cope with infection.

New Advance In Revolutionary 'Bullet Fingerprinting' Technique

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 08:00 AM PDT

Chemistry researchers have developed a simple but effective way of lifting fingerprints. The technique involves studying the chemical and physical interactions occurring between the metal and the fingerprint sweat deposit. Using advanced surface imaging techniques, such as an atomic force microscope, nanoscale observations of fingerprinted brass samples can identify optimum conditions to promote the natural enhancement of the fingerprint.

Condoms Associated With Moderate Protection Against Herpes Simplex Virus 2

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 08:00 AM PDT

Condom use is associated with a reduced risk of contracting herpes simplex virus 2, according to a report based on pooled analysis of data from previous studies.

Reversible Generation Of High Capacity Hydrogen Storage Material Demonstrated

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 08:00 AM PDT

Researchers have created a reversible route to generate aluminum hydride, a high capacity hydrogen storage material. This achievement is not only expected to accelerate the development of a whole class of storage materials, but also has far reaching applications in areas spanning energy technology and synthetic chemistry.

Active Commuters Have Fewer Heart Disease Risk Factors

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 08:00 AM PDT

Men and women who walk or ride a bike to work appear more fit, and men are less likely to be overweight or obese and have healthier triglyceride levels, blood pressure and insulin levels, according to a new report.

Last Supper Of The Hominids Establishes Times They Lived At Sites

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 05:00 AM PDT

In the French cave of Arago, scientists has analyzed the dental wear of the fossils of herbivorous animals hunted by Homo heidelbergensis. It is the first time that an analytical method has allowed the establishment of the length of human occupations at archaeological sites. The key is the last food that these hominids consumed.

Brain Imaging And Proteins In Spinal Fluid May Improve Alzheimer's Prediction And Diagnosis

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 05:00 AM PDT

Changes in the brain measured with MRI and PET scans, combined with memory tests and detection of risk proteins in body fluids, may lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's, according to new research.

Climate Change May Spell Demise Of Key Salt Marsh Constituent

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 05:00 AM PDT

A key constituent in New England salt marshes may be imperiled by global warming, a new study has found. Experiments show that warmer temperatures cause a spectrum of plants known as forbs to disappear.

Obesity Contributes To Rapid Cartilage Loss

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 05:00 AM PDT

Obesity, among other factors, is strongly associated with an increased risk of rapid cartilage loss, according to a new study.

Material World: Graphene's Versatility Promises New Applications

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 05:00 AM PDT

Since its discovery a few years ago, graphene has climbed to the top of the heap of new materials poised to transform the electronics and nanotechnology landscape. Now scientists have made the first measurement of a fundamental property of graphene, known as quantum capacitance. This crucial variable should prove invaluable to researchers pushing the existing limits of innovation in microchips, chemical sensing instruments, biosensors, ultracapacitance devices and flexible displays.

Analysis Of The Personality Of Psychopaths By Means Of Their Drawings

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 05:00 AM PDT

Researchers have developed a method to analyze the personality of people with psychopathologic disorders by means of their drawings. It consists of a series of Graphic Projective Tests (TPG) where patients draw what a psychologist requests. Each element of the picture has a meaning and it will give information about conscious and unconscious aspects of the analyzed person.

Memory Test And PET Scans Detect Early Signs Of Alzheimer's

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 02:00 AM PDT

A large study of patients with mild cognitive impairment revealed that cognitive tests and brain scans can work as an early warning system for the subsequent development of Alzheimer's disease. The findings are a major step forward in the march toward earlier diagnoses of the debilitating disease.

New Technique Could Save Cancer Patients' Fertility

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 02:00 AM PDT

The tiny egg nestled in the laboratory gel was a mere 30 days old, but its four-week birthday caused researchers to quietly celebrate. This was the first time anyone had grown a woman's immature egg cells to a healthy and nearly mature egg in the laboratory. Scientists have now completed the first critical step in the development of a new technique, which may eventually provide a new fertility option for women whose cancer treatments destroy their ability to reproduce.

Hurricane Carlos In 3D: Carlos Power Back Up To Hurricane Status

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 02:00 AM PDT

NASA's Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite has been capturing images of Carlos since it was born as tropical depression 4E last week. Scientists at NASA can use TRMM data to provide forecasters a 3-D look at the storm's cloud heights and rainfall, which is extremely helpful in forecasting.

Higher Levels Of A Certain Protein Associated With Lower Risk Of Type 2 Diabetes

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 02:00 AM PDT

Persons with higher levels of adiponectin, a protein that is produced by fat cells and that has anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing properties, have an associated lower risk of type 2 diabetes, according to an analysis of previous studies.

New Tracking System Helps Rescue Workers Find Victims Quickly

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 02:00 AM PDT

How can rescue units be better protected during disaster operations or avalanche victims be found quicker? A new localization system connects satellite-based positioning systems with terrestrial locating aids and situation-dependent sensory systems.

IQ Explains Some Of The Difference In Heart Disease Between People Of High And Low Socio-economic Status

Posted: 15 Jul 2009 02:00 AM PDT

A unique study looking at the difference in cardiovascular disease (heart disease and stroke) and life expectancy between people of high and low socio-economic status has found that a person's IQ may have a role to play. Researchers analyzed data from a group of 4,289 former soldiers in the USA. They found that IQ explained more than 20% of the difference in mortality between people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds compared to those from more advantaged backgrounds.

Sex Involved In Plant Defense

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 11:00 PM PDT

Why do some plants defend themselves from insect attacks better than others? New evidence shows that the difference might be due to whether they're getting any 'plant love.' Scientists discovered that sexually produced evening primrose plants withstand attacks from plant-eaters like caterpillars better than plant relatives that reproduce by themselves.

Insight Into Mechanism Underlying Huntington's Disease

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 11:00 PM PDT

Researchers have gained new insight into the genetic mechanisms underlying Huntington's disease and other trinucleotide repeat (TNR) disorders, identifying a novel DNA repair pathway that specifically targets TNR hairpin removal in the daughter DNA strand.

Identifying Diarrhea Causing Bacteria By Tiny Difference In Genes

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 11:00 PM PDT

Researchers have develop a new method for better diagnostic of diarrhea causing bacteria. Every year, diarrhea causes around five million fatalities worldwide. Most people die due to pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses, which were ingested into the gastro-intestinal tract through contaminated drinking water or food. Determining which bacterium is causing the illness in those cases is sometimes very complex.

Medical Researchers Profile Genes In Acutely Ill Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Patients

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 11:00 PM PDT

The first findings from a one-of-a-kind, patient-driven effort to provide lung tissue for research might help doctors predict when patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are becoming dangerously ill and also could point the way to interventions that could sustain them until life-saving transplants can be performed. The study addresses a dilemma in IPF care that currently is unsolved.

Facile Synthesis Of Nanoparticles With Multiple Functions

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 11:00 PM PDT

Scientists have discovered a new environmentally friendly method to synthesize a wide variety of nanoparticles inexpensively. Metals that dissolve in water were successfully extracted and transferred into a layer of an organic solvent that floats on water.

Annual Costs Of Stroke In US Children At Least $42 Million

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 11:00 PM PDT

Stroke in children costs at least $42 million annually for initial care in the United States. The lifetime costs of childhood stroke are likely greater than costs for adults due to longer life expectancy, which underscores the importance of preventing and treating stroke in children, researchers said.

Darwin’s Mystery Of Appearance Of Flowering Plants Explained

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 08:00 PM PDT

The appearance of flowering plants on Earth, and their rapid dissemination during the Cretaceous can be attributed to their capacity to transform the world to their own needs, according to a new perspective on their evolution. Flowering plants changed conditions during this period to suit themselves. They provide an entirely new explanation for what Darwin considered to be one of the greatest mysteries with which he was confronted.

Individuals At Risk For Developing Colon Cancer Identified

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 08:00 PM PDT

A new study identifies a group of individuals at increased risk for developing colon cancer and holds the promise for developing new tailored cancer treatments.

One Billion Hungry People: Multiple Causes Of Food Insecurity Considered

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 08:00 PM PDT

New articles document some of the multiple causes of food insecurity. Topics include desertification, flooding, adaptation of remote communities to modern technology, seasonality of food crops and the corresponding dearth between harvests, lack of iron in traditionally consumed food, resulting in anaemia, and taboos that inhibit people from supplementing their diets with nutritious wild fruits that are readily available.

Improving Treatment Of Patients With Heart Attack

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 08:00 PM PDT

When faced with patients suffering a heart attack, doctors have two choices: fibrinolytic therapy or primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Guidelines for treating heart attacks are generally based on clinical trials that do not take "real-life" conditions into account. The latest study analyzes these gaps and provides potential solutions to improve treatment of heart attack.

New Statistical Technique Improves Precision Of Nanotechnology Data

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 08:00 PM PDT

A new statistical analysis technique that identifies and removes systematic bias, noise and equipment-based artifacts from experimental data could lead to more precise and reliable measurement of nanomaterials and nanostructures likely to have future industrial applications.

Couples Who Cohabit Before Engagement Are More Likely To Struggle

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 08:00 PM PDT

Researchers have found that couples who live together before they are engaged have a higher chance of getting divorced than those who wait until they are married to live together, or at least wait until they are engaged. In addition, couples who lived together before engagement and then married, reported a lower satisfaction in their marriages.

Water Snake Startles Fish So They Flee Into Its Jaws

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 05:00 PM PDT

Forget the old folk tales about snakes hypnotizing their prey. The tentacled snake from South East Asia has developed a more effective technique. The small water snake has found a way to startle its prey so that the fish turn toward the snake's head to flee instead of turning away.

Smoking Associated With More Rapid Progression Of Multiple Sclerosis

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 05:00 PM PDT

Patients with multiple sclerosis who smoke appear to experience a more rapid progression of their disease, according to a new report.

Clean Fuels Could Reduce Deaths From Ship Smokestacks By 40,000 Annually

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 05:00 PM PDT

Rising levels of smokestack emissions from oceangoing ships will cause an estimated 87,000 deaths worldwide each year by 2012 -- almost one-third higher than previously believed, according to the second major study on that topic. The study says that government action to reduce sulfur emissions from shipping fuel (the source of air pollution linked to an increased risk of illness and death) could reduce that toll.

New, Less Invasive Genetic Test Greatly Improves Pregnancy Rates In Older Women With Poor Prognosis

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 05:00 PM PDT

A new test examining chromosomes in human eggs a few hours after fertilization can identify those that are capable of forming a healthy baby. The scientists have already enabled seven ongoing pregnancies in a group of older women with a history of multiple failed IVF attempts.

Herbicide Diversity Needed To Keep Herbicide Roundup Effective

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 05:00 PM PDT

Using a diverse herbicide application strategy may increase production costs, but a five-year study shows the practice will drastically reduce weeds and seeds that are resistant to a popular herbicide.

How Noise And Nervous System Get In Way Of Reading Skills

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 05:00 PM PDT

A child's brain has to work overtime in a noisy classroom to do its typical but very important job of distinguishing sounds whose subtle differences are key to success with language and reading. But, according to a new study, that simply is too much to ask of children whose nervous systems' have trouble transcribing "ba," "da" and "ga," three little sounds that mean so much to literacy.

Swine Flu: H1N1 Virus More Dangerous Than Suspected, Except To Survivors Of The 1918 Pandemic Flu Virus

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 02:00 PM PDT

Researchers also noted that those people exposed to the 1918 virus, all of whom are now in advanced old age, have antibodies that neutralize the H1N1 virus.

Certain Type Of Implanted Lenses May Be A Treatment Option For Some Patients With Nearsightedness

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 02:00 PM PDT

Implantable lenses made of a collagen-like substance appear to provide stable correction of moderate to high nearsightedness over four years of follow-up, according to a new report.

Fire Ant Outcompetes Other Species, Even In Its Native Habitat

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 02:00 PM PDT

Even in its native Argentina, the fire ant wins in head-to-head competition with other ant species more than three-quarters of the time.

HIV-1 Damages Gut Antibody-producing Immune Cells Within Days Of Infection

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 02:00 PM PDT

The virus that causes AIDS is classified as a lentivirus, a word derived from the Latin prefix, "lenti-," meaning "slow". But new research suggests that HIV-1 is anything but -- moving at breathtaking speed in destroying and dysregulating the body's gut-based B-cell antibody-producing system.

Plants' Internal Clock Can Improve Climate Change Models

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 02:00 PM PDT

The ability of plants to tell the time, a mechanism common to all living beings, enables them to survive, grow and reproduce. Scientists have studied this circadian clock from a molecular viewpoint and have found an ecological implication: it makes climate change scenarios and carbon dioxide level figures more accurate.

Bath Time Falls Injure Thousands Of Children Annually

Posted: 14 Jul 2009 02:00 PM PDT

Bath time is a favorite ritual for many children, but parents need to take extra safety measures. A new study finds more than 43,000 children are injured while bathing each year. Most injuries occur among kids under 4, and most commonly to the face.

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