ScienceDaily Top Science Headlines
for Thursday, September 16, 2010
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Glaciers help high-latitude mountains grow taller (September 16, 2010) -- Glaciers can help actively growing mountains become higher by protecting them from erosion, according to new research. The finding is contrary to the conventional view of glaciers as powerful agents of erosion that carve deep fjords and move massive amounts of sediment down mountains. The research is the first to show that the erosion effect of glaciers -- what has been dubbed the "glacial buzzsaw" -- reverses on mountains in colder climates. ... > full story
Even very low dose of regular aspirin wards off bowel cancer, study finds (September 16, 2010) -- Even the lowest possible dose of aspirin (75 mg) can ward off bowel cancer, if taken regularly, new research finds. ... > full story
New wave: Spin soliton could be a hit in cell phone communication (September 16, 2010) -- Researchers have found theoretical evidence of a new way to generate the high-frequency waves used in modern communication devices such as cell phones using exotic "soliton" waves in magnetism. The technique might enable wireless technology that would be more secure and resistant to interference than conventional devices. ... > full story
Enlarged hearts in women shrink faster than those in men after aortic valve replacement (September 16, 2010) -- After aortic valve replacement, the size of enlarged hearts shrink faster in women than in men with narrowed aortic valves (aortic stenosis), according to a new study. Because of different genetic activity, men develop more fibrous tissue in their hearts, which may explain why women's heart size decreases faster. ... > full story
Scots Pine shows its continental roots (September 16, 2010) -- By studying similarities in the genes of Scots Pine trees, scientists have shown that the iconic pine forests of Highland Scotland still carry the traces of the ancestors that colonized Britain after the end of the last ice age, harboring genetic variation that could help regenerate future populations, according to new research. ... > full story
Cognitive skills in children with autism vary and improve, study finds (September 16, 2010) -- A new study found that the cognitive skills of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) vary among individuals, and that, contrary to expectations, these skills can improve over time. The study examined 37 children with ASD and 31 children without ASD when the children were five or six years old, and again three years later. ... > full story
Electron switch between molecules points way to new high-powered organic batteries (September 16, 2010) -- The development of new organic batteries -- lightweight energy storage devices that work without the need for toxic heavy metals -- has a brighter future now that chemists have discovered a new way to pass electrons back and forth between two molecules. ... > full story
New insights provide promise for development of tools to protect damaged tissues (September 16, 2010) -- Investigators have identified a novel structure in cells that serves as a control switch in the body's system for eliminating damaged cells and also offers new therapeutic potential. ... > full story
Nature's gift for gardening may hold key to biodiversity (September 16, 2010) -- Gardeners are used to cross-breeding flowers to produce pretty petals or sweet scents -- now scientists have shown the importance of nature's talent for producing new types of flowers. ... > full story
Diet and exercise intervention for patients at risk for heart disease improves quality of life (September 16, 2010) -- A lifestyle intervention incorporating exercise training and diet counseling in primary health care settings appears to improve quality of life among adults at moderate to high risk for heart disease and appears cost-effective compared to standard care, according to a new report. ... > full story
Farm management choice can benefit fungi key to healthy ecosystems (September 16, 2010) -- Farming practices have a significant impact on the diversity of beneficial microbial fungi known to play important roles in crop productivity, soil recovery and maintenance of healthy ecosystems, according to new research. The conclusions could have important implications for the way humans manage the agricultural landscape and tackle food security issues. ... > full story
Mental illness stigma entrenched in American culture; new strategies needed, study finds (September 16, 2010) -- A new study finds no change in prejudice and discrimination toward people with serious mental illness or substance abuse problems despite a greater embrace by the public of neurobiological explanations for these illnesses. The study raises vexing questions about the effectiveness of campaigns designed to improve health literacy. ... > full story
Sequencing of cacao genome to help chocolate industry, subsistence farmers (September 15, 2010) -- Scientists have announced the preliminary release of the sequenced genome of the cacao tree, an achievement that should help sustain the supply of high-quality cocoa to the billion U.S. chocolate industry and protect the livelihoods of small farmers around the world by speeding up development, through traditional breeding techniques, of trees better equipped to resist the droughts, diseases and pests that threaten this vital agricultural crop. ... > full story
Mild memory loss is not a part of normal aging, new research finds (September 15, 2010) -- The very early mild cognitive changes once thought to be normal aging are really the first signs of progressive dementia, in particular Alzheimer's disease. The pathology in the brain related to Alzheimer's and other dementias has a much greater impact on memory function in old age than previously recognized. ... > full story
Tranquil scenes have positive impact on brain (September 15, 2010) -- Tranquil living environments can positively affect the human brain function, according to researchers. ... > full story
Scientists glimpse 'dance of skeletons' inside neurons: Insight into developmental disorders, including Williams syndrome (September 15, 2010) -- Scientists have uncovered how a structural component inside neurons performs two coordinated dance moves when the connections between neurons are strengthened. The discovery hints at why people with Williams syndrome, a developmental disorder caused by a deletion of several genes, including one that alters dendritic spine remodeling, have such an unusual blend of cognitive strengths and weaknesses. ... > full story
Neutrons helping researchers unlock secrets to cheaper ethanol (September 15, 2010) -- New insight into the structure of switchgrass and poplars is fueling discussions that could result in more efficient methods to turn biomass into biofuel. ... > full story
Higher altitudes hide deadly problem: Increased suicide risk (September 15, 2010) -- The Intermountain West is renowned for the beauty of its towering mountains and high deserts, but according to new research the region's lofty altitudes significantly influence a deadly problem: the high prevalence of suicides in this part of the country. ... > full story
Do children understand irony? New study reveals they do (September 15, 2010) -- New research findings reveals that children as young as four are able to understand and use irony. The study may impact the way parents communicate with their family. ... > full story
Radiation exposure poses similar risk of first and second cancers in atomic bomb survivors (September 15, 2010) -- The first large-scale study of the relationship between radiation dose and risk of multiple cancers among atomic bomb survivors in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, reveals a similar risk in the development of first and second subsequent cancers. ... > full story
Tiny MAVs may someday explore and detect environmental hazards (September 15, 2010) -- Researchers are developing what could become the next phase of high-performance micro air vehicles for the Air Force. The research is on track to evolve into robotic, insect-scale devices for monitoring and exploration of hazardous environments, such as collapsed structures, caves and chemical spills. ... > full story
Link between arthritis pain reliever and cardiovascular events discovered (September 15, 2010) -- Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism as to why the long-term, high-dosage use of the well-known arthritis pain medication, Vioxx, led to heart attacks and strokes. Their groundbreaking research may pave the way for a safer drug for millions of arthritis patients who suffer acute and chronic pain. ... > full story
Largest ever white-shouldered ibis count (September 15, 2010) -- A record-breaking 429 white-shouldered ibis have just been recorded in Cambodia, making the known global population much larger than previously thought. With so many birds remaining in the wild the chances of conservation success are greatly improved -- welcome news for this Critically Endangered bird species. ... > full story
Aerobic exercise relieves insomnia (September 15, 2010) -- Millions of middle-aged and older adults who suffer from insomnia have a new drug-free prescription for a more restful night's sleep. Regular aerobic exercise dramatically improves the quality of sleep, mood and vitality, according to a new study. ... > full story
Fountain of youth in bile? Longevity molecule identified (September 15, 2010) -- The human quest for longer life may be one step closer. A new study is the first to identify the role of a bile acid, called lithocholic acid, in extending the lifespan of normally aging yeast. The findings may have significant implications for human longevity and health, as yeast share some common elements with people. ... > full story
Gene for high cholesterol in blood found (September 15, 2010) -- Scientists have found a gene that causes high levels of bad cholesterol to accumulate in the blood as a result of a high-cholesterol diet. ... > full story
Simpler mathematical model for reproducing bacterial growth patterns developed (September 15, 2010) -- The expansion of bacterial colonies is one of the classic research areas in biology. Researchers now consider a new model that uses two parameters to reproduce the growth patterns of these microorganisms. ... > full story
Only 5% of Americans engage in vigorous physical activity on any given day (September 15, 2010) -- On any given day, most U.S. adults report performing predominantly sedentary and light activities, according to a new study. Overall only 5.07% report any vigorous intensity activity. The most frequently reported moderate activity was food and drink preparation. ... > full story
Hydroelectric power reservoirs cleaner than previously feared, new research shows (September 15, 2010) -- A new report is helping to remove the dirty image attributed to climate gas emissions from hydroelectric power reservoirs. ... > full story
Perception of emotion is culture-specific (September 15, 2010) -- Want to know how a Japanese person is feeling? Pay attention to the tone of his voice, not his face. That's what other Japanese people would do, anyway. A new study examines how Dutch and Japanese people assess others' emotions and finds that Dutch people pay attention to the facial expression more than Japanese people do. ... > full story
Key mechanism behind sleep discovered: Finding holds promise for treatment of fatigue and sleep disorders (September 15, 2010) -- Researchers have discovered the mechanism by which the brain switches from a wakeful to a sleeping state. The finding clears the way for a suite of discoveries, from sleeping aids to treatments for stroke and other brain injuries. ... > full story
Outsmarting killer bacteria (September 15, 2010) -- Scientists are developing a generation of antibiotics that takes the mechanism of bacterial resistance and integrates it into drugs, short-circuiting the superbugs' resistance and rendering them susceptible to treatment. ... > full story
World's last remaining tigers clustered in 6% of available habitat (September 15, 2010) -- Researchers have revealed an ominous finding: most of the world's last remaining tigers -- long decimated by overhunting, logging, and wildlife trade -- are now clustered in just six percent of their available habitat. ... > full story
Type D personality associated with higher future heart risk (September 15, 2010) -- Heart patients considered "chronically distressed" (Type D personality) may have a higher risk of recurrent cardiac events. Type D personality was also associated with higher risk of future psychological problems such as depression or anxiety in heart patients. ... > full story
NASA's Aqua satellite takes snapshot of Arctic Ocean sea ice (September 15, 2010) -- The Arctic Ocean is covered by a dynamic layer of sea ice that grows each winter and shrinks each summer, reaching its yearly minimum size each fall. While the 2010 minimum remains to be seen, NASA's Aqua satellite captured a snapshot on Sept. 3. ... > full story
How doctors rationalize acceptance of industry gifts (September 15, 2010) -- Despite heightened awareness about the undue influence that gifts from pharmaceutical companies can have on doctors' prescribing practices, companies continue to reward doctors for prescribing their drugs with gifts. A new study found that physicians rationalize acceptance of these gifts as a form of reward for the sacrifices they made obtaining their education. ... > full story
Frosty times for dinosaurs: Major fall in temperature 137 million years ago during Cretaceous greenhouse period, evidence shows (September 15, 2010) -- New research sheds light on a major drop in temperature 137 million years ago, which briefly interrupted the warm, equable climate of the Cretaceous Period. Dinosaurs inhabited the polar regions during the Cretaceous greenhouse period. While marine reptiles such as pliosaurs and ichthyosaurs may have migrated with the onset of the cold snap, it is not clear how dinosaurs would have handled the colder conditions. ... > full story
Consumption of 'good salt' can reduce population blood pressure levels, research finds (September 15, 2010) -- An increased intake of 'good' potassium salts could contribute significantly to improving blood pressure at the population level, according to new research. The favorable effect brought about by potassium is even estimated to be comparable with the blood pressure reduction achievable by halving the intake of 'bad' sodium salts (mostly from table salt). ... > full story
Scientists reveal battery behavior at the nanoscale (September 15, 2010) -- As industries and consumers increasingly seek improved battery power sources, cutting-edge microscopy is providing an unprecedented perspective on how lithium-ion batteries function. A research team has developed a new type of scanning probe microscopy called electrochemical strain microscopy (ESM) to examine the movement of lithium ions through a battery's cathode material. ... > full story
Implant blood test: Shape memory alloys are biocompatible, new research shows (September 15, 2010) -- A European team has demonstrated that modern technological materials used in a wide range of medical devices and implants are entirely biocompatible and should not health problems as has previously been suggested. ... > full story
Computer in wrapping-paper form give solar cells a makeover (September 15, 2010) -- Investigators in New York are giving factory production of solar energy cells a modern makeover. Their new approach includes the use of "continuous electronic sheets," something like a computer flattened into wrapping paper. ... > full story
Women more likely than men to accept scientific consensus on global warming, study finds (September 15, 2010) -- Women tend to believe the scientific consensus on global warming more than men, according to a new study. The findings challenge common perceptions that men are more scientifically literate, the study's author says. ... > full story
Nanodiamonds discovered in Greenland ice sheet, contribute to evidence for cosmic impact (September 15, 2010) -- Nanosize diamonds have been discovered in the Greenland ice sheet, according to a new study. The finding adds credence to the controversial hypothesis that fragments of a comet struck across North America and Europe approximately 12,900 years ago. ... > full story
New treatment for rabies advances after successful Phase 1 trial in India (September 15, 2010) -- Researchers have announced that a newly completed Phase 1 study of a monoclonal antibody to rabies (RAB-1) showed positive results for the new therapy, which has the potential to save tens of thousands of lives each year in areas of the world hardest hit by rabies, where current standard treatments are often not available. ... > full story
Salmon's body language tells all: Body language can be an indicator of stress or well-being in fish (September 15, 2010) -- Automatic photo analysis may make it possible to continuously monitor and interpret fish behavior. Researchers in Norway have been collaborating on finding methods of measuring the stress levels and welfare of production fish. Cameras and automatic photo analysis were used to quantify behavior. This could open up possibilities for continuous monitoring of production fish in the future. ... > full story
New focus on 'sudden death' heart disorder (September 15, 2010) -- An abrupt, fatal heart attack in a young athlete on the playing field is a tragedy destined to repeat itself over and over until more is understood about hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a genetic disorder that is the most common cause of sudden death in young people but which affects people of all ages. So says a task force of cardiologists and cardiac biologists. ... > full story
New microfluidic chip for discriminating bacteria (September 15, 2010) -- A new "on-chip" method for sorting and identifying bacteria has been created by biomedical engineers. The discovery may lead to portable devices that could be used for analyzing bacteria-infected blood, finding the causes of urethral irritation, and for screening raw milk and other foods. ... > full story
Present imperfect: Doctors in training work even when ill, study finds (September 15, 2010) -- Three out of five residents surveyed came to work while sick, possibly exposing their patients and colleagues to suboptimal performance and communicable disease, according to a new study. One out of three did so more than once. At one hospital, 100 percent of residents worked when sick. More than half of resident physicians surveyed said they didn't have time to see a doctor. ... > full story
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