Dear Reader ,
Here is your customized PHYSorg.com Newsletter for October 11, 2010:
Spotlight Stories Headlines
- Could light and matter coupling lead to quantum computation?- Google tests cars that can steer without drivers
- DNA and the 'magic rings' trick
- Too much light at night at night may lead to obesity, study finds
- Microbial hair -- it's electric: Specialized bacterial filaments shown to conduct electricity
- Friction research casts doubt on fundamental physics law
- Scientists say the Big One could be even bigger
- Private spaceship makes first solo glide flight (w/ Video)
- 'Little purple pill' is under microscope
- The spice of life: Curry's main ingredient has more to offer than good flavor
- Dogs may be pessimistic too
- Large study shows females are equal to males in math skills
- Who killed the graphite anode? Researchers move silicon anode li-ion battery technology forward
- Researchers provide new understanding of bizarre extinct mammal
- New Bronze Age civilisation discovered in Russian Caucasus
Space & Earth news
With rising sea levels, the time for adapting is now
The authors of a new book have called for the development of more robust international ocean and ice sheet monitoring and modelling programs designed to help community adaptation planning keep pace with the threat of rising sea levels.
Half the productivity, twice the carbon
Unless the IT industry adopts new energy-efficient technologies in the coming decade, it runs a serious risk of being unable to contribute to growing the global economy if limits are placed on carbon emissions. The findings come from an 18-month investigation by scholars at the Institute for Sustainable and Applied Infodynamics (ISAID) in Singapore and Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy in Houston.
Argonne feeds bacteria into contaminated Kansas site to clean it
When cleaning the bathroom, we usually consider bacteria the enemy. However, a new study conducted by environmental scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory has demonstrated a way to enlist bacteria in the fight to cleanse some of the country’s most intractably polluted locations.
Urban farming yields small climate gains
Farming in and around cities is sustainable, but the gains in terms of climate are limited. To really make a difference we must change our eating habits. This conclusion was reached by Wageningen University researchers (The Netherlands) from PPO, who calculated for Almere council the likely climate gains from large-scale urban farming in the planned Oosterwold. This 4,000 hectare development with housing, offices and farms is intended to become the vegetable garden of Almere. The study calculates what this urban farming would mean in terms of fossil fuel usage, greenhouse gas emissions and food kilometers.
NASA closer to getting extra space shuttle flight
(AP) -- There's still the matter of money. But it looks increasingly likely that NASA will get an extra space shuttle flight.
New research questions hydroelectric emissions
Scientists have found that some reservoirs formed by hydroelectric dams emit more greenhouse gases than expected, potentially upsetting the climate-friendly balance of hydroelectric power.
Meteors from obscure shower spotted by NASA cameras
Camelopardalis. It's a strange-sounding name for a constellation, coming from the Greco-Roman word for giraffe, or "camel leopard". The October Camelopardalids are a collection of faint stars that have no mythology associated with them -- in fact, they didn't begin to appear on star charts until the 17th century.
La Nina strengthens: WMO
The disruptive La Nina weather pattern in the Pacific basin should strengthen over the next four to six months, heralding stronger monsoons and more hurricanes, the UN weather agency said on Monday.
Population trends: Another influence on climate change
Changes in population growth and composition, including aging and urbanization, could significantly affect global emissions of carbon dioxide over the next 40 years, according to a new study out next week.
Private spaceship makes first solo glide flight (w/ Video)
Virgin Galactic's space tourism rocket SpaceShipTwo achieved its first solo glide flight Sunday, marking another step in the company's eventual plans to fly paying passengers.
Scientists say the Big One could be even bigger
The Big One predicted for the San Andreas fault could end up being bigger than earthquake experts previously thought.
Technology news
New energy metering chip introduced by NXP
EM773 based on Cortex-M0 is world?s first 32-bit ARM-based solution for non-billing metering applications.
Mobile business apps grab top focus for software developers
Software developers are queuing up for an expected gold rush creating and selling business applications for mobile devices.
IBM rides market upswing to hit all-time high
(AP) -- IBM shares have hit an all-time high.
Taiwan Cement plans large solar power plant
Taiwan largest cement maker plans to build a large solar power plant, the company and local media said Monday, confirming a trend for the island's companies to focus increasingly on green technologies.
Microsoft phone ads spoof smart phone addiction
(AP) -- As Microsoft sees it, we're all wandering around in a daze, heads tilted downward and eyes on our smart phone screens. We bump into strangers and ignore our loved ones. And the solution? Another smart phone, of course.
New e-paper display offers low energy/high refresh rate
(PhysOrg.com) -- A new type of display for portable electronic gadgets combines the energy efficiency of low power devices such as e-readers with the high performance of high power use devices such as laptops and smartphones. The new display is called a "zero-power" electrofluidic system and could soon be used in e-readers and other devices.
5 reasons to like the Nissan Leaf
Surprise, the Nissan Leaf is great fun to drive. Well, it's not all that much of a surprise: I'd driven two other cars with the Leaf technology under the hood, but this was my first go-round (through Central Park, of all places) in the actual production Leaf, one of just 17 in the U.S. right now.
Microsoft unveils new mobile platform, Windows Phone 7 (Update)
Microsoft unveiled a new mobile phone operating system Monday in a bid to claw back lost market share from the iPhone, Blackberry and devices powered by Google's Android software.
Global study finds China and Middle East leading digital age
China and the Middle East are racing ahead of the West in embracing the Internet according to "the largest ever" global study of online habits.
Google tests cars that can steer without drivers
Google Inc. is road-testing cars that steer, stop and start without a human driver, the company says.
Medicine & Health news
Study to determine whether leptin helps type 1 diabetes patients
A clinical trial at UT Southwestern Medical Center aims to determine whether adding the hormone leptin to standard insulin therapy might help rein in the tumultuous blood-sugar levels of people with type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes.
Tiny East Timor declares war on leprosy
(AP) -- If there really was a place so remote it could be called the end of the earth, Adelino Quelo's shabby little hut would be prime real estate.
Large-scale analysis identifies 32 genetic loci for obesity
An international team of researchers has identified 18 new genetic loci associated with obesity assessed by BMI, and confirmed a link between obesity and 14 previously known loci. Almost 250,000 individuals were included in the analysis, which is published in the latest issue of Nature Genetics.
Patients' views on electronic patient records
The digitisation of patient records needs much wider consultation if the NHS is to retain public confidence in patient confidentiality, says a new survey published today by the New Economics Foundation and the Centre for Science Education at Sheffield Hallam University.
Intriguing viral link to intestinal cancer in mice
More than 50% of adults in the United States test positive for human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection.
Lack of antiepileptic drugs hurts awareness, treatment efforts in Zambia
(PhysOrg.com) -- Despite an international effort to raise awareness about epilepsy in resource-poor nations, a recently published study found nearly 50 percent of pharmacies in Zambia do not carry antiepileptic drugs, seriously hampering efforts to tackle one of the most cost-effective chronic conditions to treat.
Certain new therapies for age-related eye disease do not appear to increase heart risks
Newer treatments for age-related macular degeneration (AMD)—including an intravitreous (into the eye) injection of a chemotherapy drug and use of a related compound approved for use against the eye disease—do not appear to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular complications or death when compared with existing therapies, according to a report in the October issue of Archives of Ophthalmology.
Carotid stents associated with greater risk of stroke or death than carotid endarterectomy surgery
For patients with blockages in the carotid artery that supplies blood to the brain, carotid artery stenting (a non-surgical treatment) appears to be associated with an increased risk of both short- and long-term adverse outcomes when compared with surgical treatment (carotid endarterectomy), according to a meta-analysis of previously published studies that was posted online today and will appear in the February 2011 print issue of Archives of Neurology.
Treatment of retinal conditions appears to have changed significantly in previous decade
The number of Medicare recipients undergoing treatment for retinal conditions nearly doubled between 1997 and 2007, with significant shifts in the types of procedures most commonly performed, according to a report in the October issue of Archives of Ophthalmology.
Insurance and socioeconomic status do not explain racial disparities in breast cancer care
Racial disparities in the receipt of breast cancer care persist despite accounting for patients' insurance and social and economic status. That is the conclusion of a study published early online in Cancer, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. The findings suggest that greater efforts are needed to better understand disparities in breast cancer care and to ensure that all affected women receive equal and effective treatments.
When in Rome: Study-abroad students increase alcohol intake
For most American students, spending a semester or two studying in a foreign country means the opportunity to improve foreign language skills and become immersed in a different culture. For others, studying abroad is more like a prolonged spring break: it can be months with fewer academic responsibilities, plentiful bars and alcohol, and parents far away.
Gap creates risk for young people with mental health problems
Many young people with mental health problems are at risk of falling through a huge gap in provision when they move from adolescent to adult care services, according to new research from the University of Warwick.
Cancer screening simplified
Current cervical cancer screening is time consuming and expensive, but now new breakthrough technology developed by European researchers should allow large-range screening by non-medical personnel with almost immediate results and at a much lower cost.
Study identifies neural pathways for fear responses in zebrafish
A new study on the behavior of the zebrafish by Japanese researchers at the RIKEN Brain Science Institute has uncovered a key role for a region of the brain called the habenula nucleus in the development of fear responses. The discovery provides valuable insights applicable to the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental illnesses.
Preventive medication, behavior management skills are key to combating frequent migraines
The combination of preventive medication and behavioral changes offered significant relief for 77 percent of the individuals enrolled in a study aimed at combating frequent, disabling migraine headaches, according to new Ohio University research published this week in the British Medical Journal.
New discovery may help to identify the healthiest embryos in IVF treatment
(PhysOrg.com) -- Australian scientists have developed a potentially groundbreaking new measure of the health of an embryo and the likelihood of a successful pregnancy in IVF treatment.
Translating Chinese medicine for the West
In a traditional Chinese medicine store in central Beijing, part of the Tongrentang chain founded 342 years ago, three white-coated workers follow traditions that stretch even further back in time. They sort and chop an exotic variety of herbs and roots for customers to take home and boil up.
Researcher investigates the 'subjective time trajectory' in psychological health
In life, we're told, we must take the good with the bad, and how we view these life events determines our well-being and ability to adjust. But according to Prof. Dov Shmotkin of Tel Aviv University's Department of Psychology, you need more than the right attitude to successfully negotiate the vicissitudes of life.
Research aims to cut disparities in stroke care
(AP) -- When her stroke hit, Edna Wooten somehow stopped her car. Then her grown daughter ignored her slurred protests and raced her to the hospital - in time for a drug to dissolve the blood clot causing her stroke.
Physical symptoms prevalent no matter what stage of cancer including remission
Twenty-two physical symptoms associated with cancer – symptoms often unrecognized and undertreated – are prevalent in all types of cancers regardless of whether the patient is newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment or is a cancer survivor, according to researchers from the Regenstrief Institute and the Indiana University schools of medicine and nursing.
Meta-analysis shows no heart benefits for folic acid supplements
Use of folic acid supplements appears to lower blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine—theorized to be a risk factor for heart and blood vessel disease—but does not appear to be associated with reduced rates of cardiovascular events, cancer or death over a five-year period, according to a meta-analysis of previously published studies in the October 11 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine.
Is infertility more common in women with epilepsy?
Women with epilepsy may be more likely to experience infertility, according to new research published in the October 12, 2010, print issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
End-of-life care patterns shift for patients with heart failure in both US and Canada
Health care in the last six months of life has become progressively more expensive for patients with heart failure both among Medicare beneficiaries in the United States and older adults in Canada, with a high rate of hospitalizations in the final six months of life in both countries, according to two reports posted online today that will be published in the February 14 print issue of Archives of Internal Medicine. A third report finds that more men dying of prostate cancer are receiving hospice care, but that the timing of hospice referral remains poor.
Insulin resistance may be associated with stroke risk
Insulin resistance, a condition in which insulin produced by the body becomes less effective in reducing blood glucose levels, appears to be associated with an increased risk of stroke in individuals without diabetes, according to a report in the October issue of Archives of Neurology.
Screen time linked to psychological problems in children
(PhysOrg.com) -- Children who spend longer than two hours in front of a computer or television screen are more likely to suffer psychological difficulties, regardless of how physically active they are.
Newborns with jaundice more likely to develop autism: study
Infants born with jaundice are at much greater risk of developing autism, a study published Monday showed.
Making decisions is the third way we learn, research shows
Experts have long believed there are two main ways our brains work: cognition, which is thinking or processing information, and affect, which is feeling or emotion. However, a new breakthrough was just made in regard to a third faculty of the brain: conation.
Cause of the big plague epidemic of Middle Ages identified
(PhysOrg.com) -- The 'Black Death' was caused by at least two previously unknown types of Yersinia pestis bacteria.
US treats first patient with human embryonic stem cells (Update)
US doctors have begun the first tests of human embryonic stem cells in patients, treating a man with spinal cord injuries in a landmark trial of the controversial process, the Geron Corporation said Monday.
'Little purple pill' is under microscope
Dr. Marcus Thygeson once wrote his patients countless prescriptions for heartburn drugs such as Prevacid, Prilosec and Nexium -- the "little purple pills" of TV ads.
The spice of life: Curry's main ingredient has more to offer than good flavor
Mahtab Jafari's research shows curry's main ingredient has more to offer than good flavor. It extended the lifespan of fruit flies by up to 20 percent, while improving locomotion and having tumor-prevention properties.
Too much light at night at night may lead to obesity, study finds
Persistent exposure to light at night may lead to weight gain, even without changing physical activity or eating more food, according to new research in mice.
Biology news
Virtual research institute needed to unlock RNA's promise
A Europe-wide network of labs focusing on RNA research is needed to make the most of RNA's high potential for treating a wide range of diseases. The recommendation for this virtual research institute comes from a panel of biologists at the European Science Foundation in a report published today, 'RNA World: a new frontier in biomedical research'.
New iPhone app helps keep pets trim
Tipping the scales at 97 pounds, Sam was a chubby black Labrador retriever. Partial to meat, potatoes and the occasional mouthful of popcorn, he was a fine dinner companion and not very old when walking became difficult because of excessive weight. Today, Sam is a trim 85 pounds, much closer to the recommended weight range for his breed. His owner did it the old-fashioned way -- guessing what might be the right amount of food to feed for healthy weight loss.
Jump in whale deaths blamed on krill, ship traffic
(AP) -- An increase in the population of a tiny crustacean and busy shipping lanes are being blamed for a jump in the number of whale deaths in Northern California waters this year.
On the trail of the epigenetic code
The genetic inherited material DNA was long viewed as the sole bearer of hereditary information. The function of its packaging proteins, the histones, was believed to be exclusively structural. Additional genetic information can be stored, however, and passed on to subsequent generations through chemical changes in the DNA or histones.
Identifying stem cell suicide triggers with ROCK
A RIKEN-led team of molecular biologists (Japan) has determined why human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells undergo apoptosis, or programmed cell death, when separated from each other. The finding should allow more efficient culturing of human stem cells, making them easier to maintain, more flexible to handle, and generally improving their survival.
Monarch butterflies use medicinal plants to treat offspring for disease: study
(PhysOrg.com) -- Monarch butterflies appear to use medicinal plants to treat their offspring for disease, research by biologists at Emory University shows. Their findings were published online Oct. 6 in the journal Ecology Letters.
Exercise levels and personality could be linked
There may be a fundamental link between aspects of an individual's personality and their capacity to exercise or generate energy, recent research suggests.
Dogs may be pessimistic too
(PhysOrg.com) -- A study has gained new insight into the minds of dogs, discovering that those that are anxious when left alone also tend to show 'pessimistic' like behaviour.
Invasive plants increase the risk of tick-borne disease in suburbs
(PhysOrg.com) -- “You don't have to go out into the woods anymore,” says tick expert Brian F. Allan, PhD, who just completed a postdoctoral appointment at Washington University in St. Louis. “The deer are bringing tick-borne disease to us.” So, it stands to reason that anything deer like, might increase the risk of tick-borne disease for people.
Genomic comparison of ocean microbes reveals East-West divide in populations
Much as an anthropologist can study populations of people to learn about their physical attributes, their environs and social structures, some marine microbiologists read the genome of microbes to glean information about the microbes themselves, their environments and lifestyles.
New carnivorous mammal discovered in Madagascar - first in 24 years
(PhysOrg.com) -- A new species of small carnivore, known as Durrell’s vontsira (Salanoia durrelli) has been identified by researchers from the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, the Natural History Museum, London, Nature Heritage, Jersey, and Conservation International (CI). The small, cat-sized, speckled brown carnivore from the marshes of the Lac Alaotra wetlands in central eastern Madagascar weighs just over half a kilogramme and belongs to a family of carnivores only known from Madagascar. It is likely to be one of the most threatened carnivores in the world. The findings are outlined in the latest issue of the taxonomic journal Systematics and Biodiversity.
DNA and the 'magic rings' trick
(PhysOrg.com) -- A new study from UC Davis shows how, like a conjuring trick with interlocking rings, two interlocked pieces of DNA are separated after DNA is copied or repaired. The finding was published online Oct. 10 in the journal Nature Structural and Molecular Biology.
This email is a free service of PhysOrg.com
You received this email because you subscribed to our list.
If you no longer want to receive this email use the link below to unsubscribe.
http://www.physorg.com/profile/nwletter/
You are subscribed as jmabs1@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment