For Women, Belly Fat May Lead to Osteoporosis | My Health News Daily
"long thought to protect against osteoporosis, may instead promote the disease, according to a new study. Specifically, high levels of belly fat may hurt bone health and increase women's risk for developing the bone-weakening disease, the researchers said."
November 30, 2010
Thin air: Oxygen atmosphere found on Saturn's moon Rhea
Thin air: Oxygen atmosphere found on Saturn's moon Rhea
NASA's Cassini spacecraft has detected a very tenuous atmosphere known as an exosphere, infused with oxygen and carbon dioxide around Saturn's icy moon Rhea. This is the first time a spacecraft has directly captured molecules of an oxygen atmosphere -- albeit a very thin one -- at a world other than Earth.
NASA's Cassini spacecraft has detected a very tenuous atmosphere known as an exosphere, infused with oxygen and carbon dioxide around Saturn's icy moon Rhea. This is the first time a spacecraft has directly captured molecules of an oxygen atmosphere -- albeit a very thin one -- at a world other than Earth.
Caffeinated alcoholic beverages: A growing public health problem?
Caffeinated alcoholic beverages: A growing public health problem?
In the wake of multiple state bans on caffeinated alcoholic beverages (CABs) and an FDA warning to four companies to remove their products from the marketplace, an article published online November 29 in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine delineates the scope of the public health problem and suggests areas of research that might help address it.
In the wake of multiple state bans on caffeinated alcoholic beverages (CABs) and an FDA warning to four companies to remove their products from the marketplace, an article published online November 29 in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine delineates the scope of the public health problem and suggests areas of research that might help address it.
Proof of extra dimensions possible next year: CERN | Reuters
Proof of extra dimensions possible next year: CERN | Reuters
Scientists at the CERN research center say their "Big Bang" project is going beyond all expectations and the first proof of the existence of dimensions beyond the known four could emerge next year.
In surveys of results of nearly 8 months of experiments in their Large Hadron Collider (LHC), they also say they may be able to determine by the end of 2011 whether the mystery Higgs particle, or boson, exists.
Scientists at the CERN research center say their "Big Bang" project is going beyond all expectations and the first proof of the existence of dimensions beyond the known four could emerge next year.
In surveys of results of nearly 8 months of experiments in their Large Hadron Collider (LHC), they also say they may be able to determine by the end of 2011 whether the mystery Higgs particle, or boson, exists.
CBC News - Technology & Science - Extinctions feared as ocean dead zones grow
CBC News - Technology & Science - Extinctions feared as ocean dead zones grow
Scientists fear the planet is on the brink of another mass extinction as ocean dead zones continue to grow in size and number.
More than 400 ocean dead zones — areas so low in oxygen that sea life cannot survive — have been reported by oceanographers around the world between 2000 and 2008.
That is compared with 300 in the 1990s and 120 in the 1980s.
Scientists fear the planet is on the brink of another mass extinction as ocean dead zones continue to grow in size and number.
More than 400 ocean dead zones — areas so low in oxygen that sea life cannot survive — have been reported by oceanographers around the world between 2000 and 2008.
That is compared with 300 in the 1990s and 120 in the 1980s.
Farmers Wage Organic Battle Against Pests and Weeds - NYTimes.com
Farmers Wage Organic Battle Against Pests and Weeds - NYTimes.com
Research here on wild sunflowers, he says, shows they are home to lady beetles and parasitic wasps, which are good bugs that kill bad bugs.
“The sunflowers help us provide a bed-and-breakfast for beneficial insects and keep them going year round,” he said. “And native sunflowers are a lot better at it than domestic. There’s a lot more insect biodiversity in wild sunflowers.”
Research here on wild sunflowers, he says, shows they are home to lady beetles and parasitic wasps, which are good bugs that kill bad bugs.
“The sunflowers help us provide a bed-and-breakfast for beneficial insects and keep them going year round,” he said. “And native sunflowers are a lot better at it than domestic. There’s a lot more insect biodiversity in wild sunflowers.”
Antibacterial soaps: Being too clean can make people sick, study suggests
Antibacterial soaps: Being too clean can make people sick, study suggests
Young people who are overexposed to antibacterial soaps containing triclosan may suffer more allergies, and exposure to higher levels of Bisphenol A among adults may negatively influence the immune system, a new University of Michigan School of Public Health study suggests.
Young people who are overexposed to antibacterial soaps containing triclosan may suffer more allergies, and exposure to higher levels of Bisphenol A among adults may negatively influence the immune system, a new University of Michigan School of Public Health study suggests.
Moderate alcohol consumption lowers the risk of metabolic diseases, study suggests
Moderate alcohol consumption lowers the risk of metabolic diseases, study suggests
With the emergence of an epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes (DM) throughout the world, the association of lifestyle habits that may affect the risk of metabolic diseases is especially important. Most prospective studies have shown that moderate drinkers tend to have about 30% lower risk of developing late onset diabetes than do non-drinkers, and moderate drinkers also tend to be at lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MS).
With the emergence of an epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes (DM) throughout the world, the association of lifestyle habits that may affect the risk of metabolic diseases is especially important. Most prospective studies have shown that moderate drinkers tend to have about 30% lower risk of developing late onset diabetes than do non-drinkers, and moderate drinkers also tend to be at lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MS).
Clarity in short-term memory shows no link with IQ
Clarity in short-term memory shows no link with IQ
One person correctly remembers four of eight items just seen but is fuzzy on details. Another person recalls only two of the items but with amazingly precise clarity. So what ability translates to higher IQ?
One person correctly remembers four of eight items just seen but is fuzzy on details. Another person recalls only two of the items but with amazingly precise clarity. So what ability translates to higher IQ?
November 29, 2010
Harvard scientists reverse the ageing process in mice – now for humans | Science | The Guardian
Harvard scientists reverse the ageing process in mice – now for humans | Science | The Guardian
Harvard scientists were surprised that they saw a dramatic reversal, not just a slowing down, of the ageing in mice. Now they believe they might be able to regenerate human organs
Harvard scientists were surprised that they saw a dramatic reversal, not just a slowing down, of the ageing in mice. Now they believe they might be able to regenerate human organs
Does sex matter? It may when evaluating mental status
Does sex matter? It may when evaluating mental status
"Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that differs between the sexes in terms of age at onset, symptomatology, response to medication, and structural brain abnormalities. Now, a new study from the Université de Montréal shows that there is gender difference between men and women's mental ability -- with women performing better than men."
"Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that differs between the sexes in terms of age at onset, symptomatology, response to medication, and structural brain abnormalities. Now, a new study from the Université de Montréal shows that there is gender difference between men and women's mental ability -- with women performing better than men."
Tuning an 'ear' to the music of gravitational waves
Tuning an 'ear' to the music of gravitational waves
A team of scientists and engineers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory has brought the world one step closer to "hearing" gravitational waves -- ripples in space and time predicted by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century.
A team of scientists and engineers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory has brought the world one step closer to "hearing" gravitational waves -- ripples in space and time predicted by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century.
November 26, 2010
EU guidelines clear way for biosimilar antibodies | Reuters
EU guidelines clear way for biosimilar antibodies | Reuters
European regulators on Friday set out broad guidelines for the approval of biosimilar antibody drugs, including lower hurdles than for new medicines and allowing the possibility of different diseases being addressed by the same copy antibody.
European regulators on Friday set out broad guidelines for the approval of biosimilar antibody drugs, including lower hurdles than for new medicines and allowing the possibility of different diseases being addressed by the same copy antibody.
No link between mold growth and development of asthma and allergy, Scandinavian study finds
No link between mold growth and development of asthma and allergy, Scandinavian study finds
: "A recent Scandinavian study shows that there is no link between mold-spore concentrations in the indoor air and development of asthma and allergy among children."
: "A recent Scandinavian study shows that there is no link between mold-spore concentrations in the indoor air and development of asthma and allergy among children."
Gender gap in physics exams reduced by simple writing exercises, study finds
Gender gap in physics exams reduced by simple writing exercises, study finds
Women are underrepresented and on average perform more poorly than men in introductory physics. But a recent study finds that this gap arises predominantly from differential preparation prior to college and psychological factors, rather than differences in ability.
And the effects of these psychological factors can be largely overcome with a brief writing exercise focusing on important values, such as friends and family, learning or even music. This simple "values affirmation" writing exercise generally raised women's course grades from the "C" to "B" range, a study led by University of Colorado at Boulder researchers has found.
Women are underrepresented and on average perform more poorly than men in introductory physics. But a recent study finds that this gap arises predominantly from differential preparation prior to college and psychological factors, rather than differences in ability.
And the effects of these psychological factors can be largely overcome with a brief writing exercise focusing on important values, such as friends and family, learning or even music. This simple "values affirmation" writing exercise generally raised women's course grades from the "C" to "B" range, a study led by University of Colorado at Boulder researchers has found.
Cosmic Rebirth - Science News
Cosmic Rebirth - suggest the Big Bang was only the latest of many - Science News
Circular patterns in the universe's pervasive background radiation suggest the Big Bang was only the latest of many
Most cosmologists trace the birth of the universe to the Big Bang 13.7 billion years ago. But a new analysis of the relic radiation generated by that explosive event suggests the universe got its start eons earlier and has cycled through myriad episodes of birth and death, with the Big Bang merely the most recent in a series of starting guns.
That startling notion, proposed by theoretical physicist Roger Penrose of the University of Oxford in England and Vahe Gurzadyan of the Yerevan Physics Institute and Yerevan State University in Armenia, goes against the standard theory of cosmology known as inflation.
Circular patterns in the universe's pervasive background radiation suggest the Big Bang was only the latest of many
Most cosmologists trace the birth of the universe to the Big Bang 13.7 billion years ago. But a new analysis of the relic radiation generated by that explosive event suggests the universe got its start eons earlier and has cycled through myriad episodes of birth and death, with the Big Bang merely the most recent in a series of starting guns.
That startling notion, proposed by theoretical physicist Roger Penrose of the University of Oxford in England and Vahe Gurzadyan of the Yerevan Physics Institute and Yerevan State University in Armenia, goes against the standard theory of cosmology known as inflation.
High Light: When a Psilocybin Study Leads to Spiritual Realization: Scientific American
High Light: When a Psilocybin Study Leads to Spiritual Realization: Scientific American
A subject in a study of the effects of hallucinogens on brain chemistry recounts her mystical, life-changing experiences under the influence of psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms)
Maria Estevez was 62 years old in 2006 when she participated in the second psilocybin study conducted by Roland Griffiths, a co-author of the Scientific American article on hallucinogens. The inspiration she derived from these experiences prompted her to write a yet-unpublished book about how it affected her life both during the study and afterward.
A subject in a study of the effects of hallucinogens on brain chemistry recounts her mystical, life-changing experiences under the influence of psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms)
Maria Estevez was 62 years old in 2006 when she participated in the second psilocybin study conducted by Roland Griffiths, a co-author of the Scientific American article on hallucinogens. The inspiration she derived from these experiences prompted her to write a yet-unpublished book about how it affected her life both during the study and afterward.
Female fish -- and humans? -- lose interest when their male loses a slugfest
Female fish -- and humans? -- lose interest when their male loses a slugfest
You may think of your love for your mate as the noble emotion of a pure heart, but some primitive parts of your brain are taking a decidedly more pragmatic approach to the subject, according to Stanford biologists.
You may think of your love for your mate as the noble emotion of a pure heart, but some primitive parts of your brain are taking a decidedly more pragmatic approach to the subject, according to Stanford biologists.
November 25, 2010
Google’s Chrome OS Is Prepared for a Netbook - NYTimes.com
Google’s Chrome OS Is Prepared for a Netbook - NYTimes.com
For Google, the Browser Does It All
That is because Chrome stores everything that people have on their computers — like documents, photos and e-mail — online, or in tech parlance, in the cloud. In Google’s vision of a world where all computers run on its Chrome OS, anyone can walk up to any computer with an Internet connection and gain access to all their information.
For Google, the Browser Does It All
That is because Chrome stores everything that people have on their computers — like documents, photos and e-mail — online, or in tech parlance, in the cloud. In Google’s vision of a world where all computers run on its Chrome OS, anyone can walk up to any computer with an Internet connection and gain access to all their information.
Why eating a lot feels so darn good - CNN.com
Why eating a lot feels so darn good - CNN.com
Evolution has given us the instinct to eat a lot every time we can, preparing for hard times. It's the drive to survive, like puffy-cheeked squirrels storing up for the winter. It's also fueled by competition: beating the others to the food.
Our brains reward us for it, by releasing pleasure chemicals -- in the same way as drugs and alcohol, experts say.
Scientists studying that good feeling after eating call it ingestion analgesia, literally pain relief from eating.
Evolution has given us the instinct to eat a lot every time we can, preparing for hard times. It's the drive to survive, like puffy-cheeked squirrels storing up for the winter. It's also fueled by competition: beating the others to the food.
Our brains reward us for it, by releasing pleasure chemicals -- in the same way as drugs and alcohol, experts say.
Scientists studying that good feeling after eating call it ingestion analgesia, literally pain relief from eating.
Eat more protein, fewer refined carbs to stay slim | Reuters
Eat more protein, fewer refined carbs to stay slim | Reuters
A team of European researchers confirms what many weight-loss gurus have claimed: eating more protein and fewer refined carbohydrates helps to keep the pounds off.
Among men and women who had lost at least eight percent of their body weight on a low-calorie diet, those who spent the next six months following a maintenance diet high in protein and low in refined carbs were the least likely to regain any weight, and were also the least likely to drop out of the study.
A team of European researchers confirms what many weight-loss gurus have claimed: eating more protein and fewer refined carbohydrates helps to keep the pounds off.
Among men and women who had lost at least eight percent of their body weight on a low-calorie diet, those who spent the next six months following a maintenance diet high in protein and low in refined carbs were the least likely to regain any weight, and were also the least likely to drop out of the study.
Getting married may also get you a kidney | Reuters
Getting married may also get you a kidney | Reuters
People who get married appear to enjoy better health overall -- and may even be more likely to receive a kidney transplant when they need one, a new study reports.
Researchers found that people with kidney failure who were married or divorced (or separated) were more than 50 percent as likely to be placed on a waitlist for a new kidney as never-married people. Those who were married were also 28 percent more likely to receive the organ, relative to single people on the waitlist.
People who get married appear to enjoy better health overall -- and may even be more likely to receive a kidney transplant when they need one, a new study reports.
Researchers found that people with kidney failure who were married or divorced (or separated) were more than 50 percent as likely to be placed on a waitlist for a new kidney as never-married people. Those who were married were also 28 percent more likely to receive the organ, relative to single people on the waitlist.
Obesity Epidemic Threatens Fido, Fluffy, Too - Yahoo! News
Obesity Epidemic Threatens Fido, Fluffy, Too - Yahoo! News
Before sharing your Thanksgiving leftovers with your pampered pets, take note: The obesity epidemic in the United States is enlarging cats and dogs, not just their over-fed owners.
Overweight pets are a serious health issue today, experts say. About half of the nation's companion animals -- some 90 million cats and ogs -- are tipping the scales, according to the Association for Pet Obesity
Before sharing your Thanksgiving leftovers with your pampered pets, take note: The obesity epidemic in the United States is enlarging cats and dogs, not just their over-fed owners.
Overweight pets are a serious health issue today, experts say. About half of the nation's companion animals -- some 90 million cats and ogs -- are tipping the scales, according to the Association for Pet Obesity
Bonn physicists create a 'super-photon'
Bonn physicists create a 'super-photon'
Completely new source of light for many applications
Physicists from the University of Bonn have developed a completely new source of light, a so-called Bose-Einstein condensate consisting of photons. Until recently, expert had thought this impossible. This method may potentially be suitable for designing novel light sources resembling lasers that work in the x-ray range. Among other applications, they might allow building more powerful computer chips. The scientists are reporting on their discovery in the upcoming issue of the journal Nature.
By cooling Rubidium atoms deeply and concentrating a sufficient number of them in a compact space, they suddenly become indistinguishable. They behave like a single huge "super particle." Physicists call this a Bose-Einstein condensate.
Completely new source of light for many applications
Physicists from the University of Bonn have developed a completely new source of light, a so-called Bose-Einstein condensate consisting of photons. Until recently, expert had thought this impossible. This method may potentially be suitable for designing novel light sources resembling lasers that work in the x-ray range. Among other applications, they might allow building more powerful computer chips. The scientists are reporting on their discovery in the upcoming issue of the journal Nature.
By cooling Rubidium atoms deeply and concentrating a sufficient number of them in a compact space, they suddenly become indistinguishable. They behave like a single huge "super particle." Physicists call this a Bose-Einstein condensate.
BBC News - Today - Greenhouse gas levels 'worrying'
BBC News - Today - Greenhouse gas levels 'worrying' - VIDEO
Greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere have reached record levels, according to a UN weather report.
British Antarctic Survey glaciologist, Dr Robert Mulvaney, explains the details of the findings.
Greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere have reached record levels, according to a UN weather report.
British Antarctic Survey glaciologist, Dr Robert Mulvaney, explains the details of the findings.
Radiation risk from flying trumps body scanners - Health - Health care - More health news - msnbc.com
Radiation risk from flying trumps body scanners - Health - Health care - More health news - msnbc.com
Amidst protests and rallies over airport security procedures, what's often overlooked is that flying itself dwarfs the radiation doses delivered by the new body scanners.
"Most people are unaware about the fact that there is significant radiation exposure associated with air travel because they are well above the Earth's atmosphere," said Robert J. Barish, a radiological and health physicist in New York City. "You'd get as much radiation in a whole-body scanner as you'd get in two minutes at 30,000 feet."
For casual flyers, there probably isn't much to worry about, Barish said. But flying raises real risks for pilots, flight attendants, and the half a million business travelers who spend much of their time in the air.
Amidst protests and rallies over airport security procedures, what's often overlooked is that flying itself dwarfs the radiation doses delivered by the new body scanners.
"Most people are unaware about the fact that there is significant radiation exposure associated with air travel because they are well above the Earth's atmosphere," said Robert J. Barish, a radiological and health physicist in New York City. "You'd get as much radiation in a whole-body scanner as you'd get in two minutes at 30,000 feet."
For casual flyers, there probably isn't much to worry about, Barish said. But flying raises real risks for pilots, flight attendants, and the half a million business travelers who spend much of their time in the air.
Short, on-chip light pulses will enable ultrafast data transfer within computers
Short, on-chip light pulses will enable ultrafast data transfer within computers
Electrical engineers generated short, powerful light pulses on a chip -- an important step toward the optical interconnects that will likely replace the copper wires that carry information between chips within today's computers. University of California, San Diego electrical engineers recently developed the first ultra compact, low power pulse compressor on a silicon chip to be described in the scientific literature.
Electrical engineers generated short, powerful light pulses on a chip -- an important step toward the optical interconnects that will likely replace the copper wires that carry information between chips within today's computers. University of California, San Diego electrical engineers recently developed the first ultra compact, low power pulse compressor on a silicon chip to be described in the scientific literature.
Using a patient's tumor to form vaccine: Dendritic cell vaccine induces immune responses in patients
Using a patient's tumor to form vaccine: Dendritic cell vaccine induces immune responses in patients
A new process for creating a personalized vaccine may become a crucial tool in helping patients with colorectal cancer develop an immune response against their own tumors. This dendritic cell (DC) vaccine, developed at Dartmouth and described in a research paper published this week in the journal Clinical Cancer Research, was used after surgical resection of metastatic tumors to try to prevent the growth of additional metastases.
"Basically, we've worked out a way to use dendritic cells, which initiate immune responses, to induce an antitumor response."
Dendritic cells are critical to the human body's immune system, helping identify targets, or antigens, and then stimulating the immune system to react against those antigens.
A new process for creating a personalized vaccine may become a crucial tool in helping patients with colorectal cancer develop an immune response against their own tumors. This dendritic cell (DC) vaccine, developed at Dartmouth and described in a research paper published this week in the journal Clinical Cancer Research, was used after surgical resection of metastatic tumors to try to prevent the growth of additional metastases.
"Basically, we've worked out a way to use dendritic cells, which initiate immune responses, to induce an antitumor response."
Dendritic cells are critical to the human body's immune system, helping identify targets, or antigens, and then stimulating the immune system to react against those antigens.
Imaging with neutrons: Magnetic domains shown for the first time in 3-D
Imaging with neutrons: Magnetic domains shown for the first time in 3-D
Although they exist in almost every magnetic material, you cannot see them: magnetic domains are microscopically small regions of uniform magnetization. Scientists have now developed a method by which they can image the full spatial structure of magnetic domains -- even deep within materials.
Although they exist in almost every magnetic material, you cannot see them: magnetic domains are microscopically small regions of uniform magnetization. Scientists have now developed a method by which they can image the full spatial structure of magnetic domains -- even deep within materials.
Harmful errors still common in U.S. hospitals: study | Reuters
Harmful errors still common in U.S. hospitals: study | Reuters
Harmful errors and accidents remain common in U.S. hospitals despite a decade of efforts to improve patient safety, a study found.
Harmful errors and accidents remain common in U.S. hospitals despite a decade of efforts to improve patient safety, a study found.
November 24, 2010
A Physician Feeling Violated and Manipulated by Pharma - MedPage Today
A Physician Feeling Violated and Manipulated by Pharma - MedPage Today
Dr. Manoj Jain, an infectious-disease specialist in Memphis and adjunct assistant professor at the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University in Atlanta, published a column in the Washington Post, "More rules are needed to curb drug firms' attempts to influence physicians."
Dr. Manoj Jain, an infectious-disease specialist in Memphis and adjunct assistant professor at the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University in Atlanta, published a column in the Washington Post, "More rules are needed to curb drug firms' attempts to influence physicians."
Why do people behave badly? Maybe it's just too easy
Why do people behave badly? Maybe it's just too easy
Many people say they wouldn't cheat on a test, lie on a job application or refuse to help a person in need. But what if the test answers fell into your lap and cheating didn't require any work on your part? If you didn't have to face the person who needed your help and refuse them? Would that change your behaviour?
Many people say they wouldn't cheat on a test, lie on a job application or refuse to help a person in need. But what if the test answers fell into your lap and cheating didn't require any work on your part? If you didn't have to face the person who needed your help and refuse them? Would that change your behaviour?
November 23, 2010
Body scanners - an expensive waste of time? - Big Brother Watch
Body scanners - an expensive waste of time? - Big Brother Watch
"I think this demonstrates the total pointlessness of the full-body scanners that are set to invade our privacy and humiliate passengers at our airports.
While children and families are being subjected to smirking staff with body scanning surveillance, everything these expensive machines should catch goes sailing through."
"I think this demonstrates the total pointlessness of the full-body scanners that are set to invade our privacy and humiliate passengers at our airports.
While children and families are being subjected to smirking staff with body scanning surveillance, everything these expensive machines should catch goes sailing through."
Negative Temperature, Infinitely Hot - Science News
Negative Temperature, Infinitely Hot - Science News
Negative temperature system were plopped down next to a positive one, the heat of the high-energy states would continually flow from the negative to the positive system. In that sense, the negative temperature one is infini"
Negative temperature system were plopped down next to a positive one, the heat of the high-energy states would continually flow from the negative to the positive system. In that sense, the negative temperature one is infini"
Fish shrink during harsh winters
Fish shrink during harsh winters - BBC
Fish can shrink during particularly harsh winters, according to researchers.
The scientists, based in Norway and Finland, discovered that juvenile brown trout reduced in length by as much as 1cm - a shrinkage of approximately 10%.
They say this could help the young fish to conserve energy when food is in short supply.
Fish can shrink during particularly harsh winters, according to researchers.
The scientists, based in Norway and Finland, discovered that juvenile brown trout reduced in length by as much as 1cm - a shrinkage of approximately 10%.
They say this could help the young fish to conserve energy when food is in short supply.
Secretive Air Force X-37B Robotic Space Plane May Be Nearing Mission's End
Secretive Air Force X-37B Robotic Space Plane May Be Nearing Mission's End
A U.S. Air Force robotic space plane continues to maneuver in Earth orbit, according to the latest observations from skywatchers. The reusable space drone has been carrying out tasks using a suite of classified sensors and may be nearing its mission's end, according to comments from Air Force officials.
The spacecraft is the Air Force's X-37B space plane, also known as the Orbital Test Vehicle 1, which launched on its maiden flight on April 22 atop an Atlas 5 rocket.
A U.S. Air Force robotic space plane continues to maneuver in Earth orbit, according to the latest observations from skywatchers. The reusable space drone has been carrying out tasks using a suite of classified sensors and may be nearing its mission's end, according to comments from Air Force officials.
The spacecraft is the Air Force's X-37B space plane, also known as the Orbital Test Vehicle 1, which launched on its maiden flight on April 22 atop an Atlas 5 rocket.
Exercise can help heart repair itself - Health - Heart health - msnbc.com
Exercise can help heart repair itself - Health - Heart health - msnbc.com
VIENNA, Austria — Having a bad heart doesn't mean you can skip exercise, doctors said Wednesday. In fact, it may even help your heart to repair itself. Research presented at the European Society of Cardiology meeting showed that exercise sparks the creation of new heart vessels.
VIENNA, Austria — Having a bad heart doesn't mean you can skip exercise, doctors said Wednesday. In fact, it may even help your heart to repair itself. Research presented at the European Society of Cardiology meeting showed that exercise sparks the creation of new heart vessels.
High alpha-carotene levels associated with longer life
High alpha-carotene levels associated with longer life
High blood levels of the antioxidant alpha-carotene appear to be associated with a reduced risk of dying over a 14-year period, according to a report posted online November 22 that will be published in the March 28 print issue of Archives of Internal Medicine.
High blood levels of the antioxidant alpha-carotene appear to be associated with a reduced risk of dying over a 14-year period, according to a report posted online November 22 that will be published in the March 28 print issue of Archives of Internal Medicine.
November 22, 2010
Good Job on the Exam, Kids! Your Reward: Plastic Surgery - FoxNews.com
Good Job on the Exam, Kids! Your Reward: Plastic Surgery - FoxNews.com
With grueling university entrance exams finally behind them, exhausted South Korean students are now choosing their reward — plastic surgery.
With grueling university entrance exams finally behind them, exhausted South Korean students are now choosing their reward — plastic surgery.
BBC News - Skin moles link to delayed ageing
BBC News - Skin moles link to delayed ageing
Plentiful skin moles may keep you younger on the inside, say scientists.
Researchers at Kings College London found that they not only could mean younger skin, but better bone density as well.
They said that the cells of people with many moles had properties which allowed them to renew themselves more often.
Plentiful skin moles may keep you younger on the inside, say scientists.
Researchers at Kings College London found that they not only could mean younger skin, but better bone density as well.
They said that the cells of people with many moles had properties which allowed them to renew themselves more often.
'Nerd penalty': Social costs of school success are highest for African Americans, study shows
'Nerd penalty': Social costs of school success are highest for African Americans, study shows
African American and Native American teens who do well in school suffer from a higher "nerd penalty" than white, Asian, and Hispanic youth, according to a new analysis.
African American and Native American teens who do well in school suffer from a higher "nerd penalty" than white, Asian, and Hispanic youth, according to a new analysis.
November 21, 2010
Flaws can cancel life insurance — after death - latimes.com
Flaws can cancel life insurance — after death - latimes.com
American General Life Insurance Co. markets its policies as protection for "the hopes and dreams of American families" — a promise Ian Weissberger took to heart during his losing battle with Lou Gehrig's disease.
But after the Cathedral City mortgage broker died in 2005, American General cancelled his life insurance policy and refused to pay his widow the $250,000 benefit.
American General Life Insurance Co. markets its policies as protection for "the hopes and dreams of American families" — a promise Ian Weissberger took to heart during his losing battle with Lou Gehrig's disease.
But after the Cathedral City mortgage broker died in 2005, American General cancelled his life insurance policy and refused to pay his widow the $250,000 benefit.
Older but Not Wiser? The Psychology Behind Seniors' Susceptibility to Scams: Scientific American
Older but Not Wiser? The Psychology Behind Seniors' Susceptibility to Scams: Scientific American
Economists have studied how aging impacts real-life financial behavior. Harvard University economist David Laibson and his colleagues looked at a variety of choices people make about loans and credit cards, in a study in 2009. They found that people on the younger and older ends of the age spectrum ended up making more mistakes—that is, decisions that cost them money—than did middle-aged people. For home equity loans, for instance, 25-year-olds and 80-year-olds had loans with annual percentage rates of about 6 percent; 50-year-olds had rates of 5.5 percent. On average, across the different types of choices, people made the fewest mistakes at age 53.
Economists have studied how aging impacts real-life financial behavior. Harvard University economist David Laibson and his colleagues looked at a variety of choices people make about loans and credit cards, in a study in 2009. They found that people on the younger and older ends of the age spectrum ended up making more mistakes—that is, decisions that cost them money—than did middle-aged people. For home equity loans, for instance, 25-year-olds and 80-year-olds had loans with annual percentage rates of about 6 percent; 50-year-olds had rates of 5.5 percent. On average, across the different types of choices, people made the fewest mistakes at age 53.
Modern Medicine: Unnecessary C-Sections on the Rise - Yahoo! News
Modern Medicine: Unnecessary C-Sections on the Rise - Yahoo! News
Between 1996 and 2007, the number of C-sections performed in U.S. hospitals rose by more than 50 percent to an all-time high: Almost one in three pregnant women, regardless of race or ethnicity, now delivers via a cesarean section, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"The most concerning problem is the high rate in first-time mothers," said Dr. Jun Zhang, a medical researcher at the National Institutes of Health and co-author of a new report on cesarean delivery practices.
In his study, published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology last month, Zhang looked at medical records of 228,668 women who had delivered babies in 19 hospitals across the country, to determine the factors involved in cesarean deliveries.
Between 1996 and 2007, the number of C-sections performed in U.S. hospitals rose by more than 50 percent to an all-time high: Almost one in three pregnant women, regardless of race or ethnicity, now delivers via a cesarean section, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"The most concerning problem is the high rate in first-time mothers," said Dr. Jun Zhang, a medical researcher at the National Institutes of Health and co-author of a new report on cesarean delivery practices.
In his study, published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology last month, Zhang looked at medical records of 228,668 women who had delivered babies in 19 hospitals across the country, to determine the factors involved in cesarean deliveries.
Cement-like creation could help the environment
Cement-like creation could help the environment
A Temple University researcher has developed a cement-like substance that could help with stormwater management while potentially keeping millions of plastic bottles out of landfills.
A Temple University researcher has developed a cement-like substance that could help with stormwater management while potentially keeping millions of plastic bottles out of landfills.
Online undergrads learn well without strong class bond, study finds
Online undergrads learn well without strong class bond, study finds
College students participating in a new study on online courses said they felt less connected and had a smaller sense of classroom community than those who took the same classes in person -- but that didnt keep online students from performing just as well as their in-person counterparts.
College students participating in a new study on online courses said they felt less connected and had a smaller sense of classroom community than those who took the same classes in person -- but that didnt keep online students from performing just as well as their in-person counterparts.
November 19, 2010
15 Dangerous Drugs Big Pharma Shoves Down Our Throats | | AlterNet
15 Dangerous Drugs Big Pharma Shoves Down Our Throats | | AlterNet
In the pharmaceutical industry’s rush to get drugs to market, safety usually comes last. And the public suffers.
In the pharmaceutical industry’s rush to get drugs to market, safety usually comes last. And the public suffers.
'Intactivists' to San Francisco: Ban circumcision - CNN.com
'Intactivists' to San Francisco: Ban circumcision - CNN.com
In the California city that banned Happy Meal toys,outlawed sitting on sidewalks during daylight hours and fined residents for not sorting garbage into recycling, compost and trash, Lloyd Schofield wants to add a new law to the books in San Francisco: A ban on all male circumcisions.
In the California city that banned Happy Meal toys,outlawed sitting on sidewalks during daylight hours and fined residents for not sorting garbage into recycling, compost and trash, Lloyd Schofield wants to add a new law to the books in San Francisco: A ban on all male circumcisions.
Holding their liquor makes women much sicker than men - Health - Women's health - msnbc.com
Holding their liquor makes women much sicker than men - Health - Women's health - msnbc.com
Some women may be able to hold their liquor as well as men do, but there's no equality when it comes to whose health suffers more for it. Excessive alcohol use takes a higher toll on women's bodies, with a greater risk of liver, brain or heart damage, among other devastating conditions.
Some women may be able to hold their liquor as well as men do, but there's no equality when it comes to whose health suffers more for it. Excessive alcohol use takes a higher toll on women's bodies, with a greater risk of liver, brain or heart damage, among other devastating conditions.
Pushing black-hole mergers to the extreme: Scientists achieve 100:1 mass ratio in simulation
Pushing black-hole mergers to the extreme: Scientists achieve 100:1 mass ratio in simulation
Scientists have simulated, for the first time, the merger of two black holes of vastly different sizes, with one mass 100 times larger than the other. This extreme mass ratio of 100:1 breaks a barrier in the fields of numerical relativity and gravitational wave astronomy
Scientists have simulated, for the first time, the merger of two black holes of vastly different sizes, with one mass 100 times larger than the other. This extreme mass ratio of 100:1 breaks a barrier in the fields of numerical relativity and gravitational wave astronomy
Shoppers shrug off fears about toxic reusable bags - Yahoo! News
Shoppers shrug off fears about toxic reusable bags - Yahoo! News
"The Rochester-based Wegmans chain of 77 stores in several "Eastern States" halted sales of two styles of reusable bags in September after tests by a local environmental group found they contained potentially unsafe levels of "Lead".
Wegmans said: there's no evidence the 750,000 bags it sold pose a health threat."
"The Rochester-based Wegmans chain of 77 stores in several "Eastern States" halted sales of two styles of reusable bags in September after tests by a local environmental group found they contained potentially unsafe levels of "Lead".
Wegmans said: there's no evidence the 750,000 bags it sold pose a health threat."
Thinking like an octopus | Harvard Gazette
Thinking like an octopus | Harvard Gazette
If you were an octopus, would you view the world from eight different points of view? Nine?
The answer may depend on how many brains an octopus has, or, to say it another way, whether the robust bunches of neurons in its coiling, writhing, incredibly handy arms bestow on each of them something akin to a brain. Is an octopus a creature ruled by a single consciousness centered in its large brain, or, by dint of its nerve-infused legs, a collaborative, cooperative, but distributed mind?
If you were an octopus, would you view the world from eight different points of view? Nine?
The answer may depend on how many brains an octopus has, or, to say it another way, whether the robust bunches of neurons in its coiling, writhing, incredibly handy arms bestow on each of them something akin to a brain. Is an octopus a creature ruled by a single consciousness centered in its large brain, or, by dint of its nerve-infused legs, a collaborative, cooperative, but distributed mind?
4 Bold—and Realistic—Plans to Fix Our Energy System | Alternative Energy | DISCOVER Magazine
4 Bold—and Realistic—Plans to Fix Our Energy System | Alternative Energy | DISCOVER Magazine
Eight leading thinkers offer visions of how to move from a history of squandering resources to a cleaner, more efficient, and more abundant energy supply.
Eight leading thinkers offer visions of how to move from a history of squandering resources to a cleaner, more efficient, and more abundant energy supply.
US Embassy: Beijing air quality is 'crazy bad' - Yahoo! News
US Embassy: Beijing air quality is 'crazy bad' - Yahoo! News
BEIJING – Pollution in Beijing was so bad Friday the U.S. Embassy, which has been independently monitoring air quality, ran out of conventional adjectives to describe it, at one point saying it was "crazy bad."
BEIJING – Pollution in Beijing was so bad Friday the U.S. Embassy, which has been independently monitoring air quality, ran out of conventional adjectives to describe it, at one point saying it was "crazy bad."
US falls behind other nations in reducing traffic fatalities and injuries
US falls behind other nations in reducing traffic fatalities and injuries
The United States is missing significant opportunities to reduce traffic fatalities and injuries, and could save lives by implementing a more rigorous, comprehensive program that adopts successful safety practices from other countries, says a new report by the National Research Council.
The United States is missing significant opportunities to reduce traffic fatalities and injuries, and could save lives by implementing a more rigorous, comprehensive program that adopts successful safety practices from other countries, says a new report by the National Research Council.
Scientists discover how estrogen works and flip its switch to reap benefits without risks
Scientists discover how estrogen works and flip its switch to reap benefits without risks
Estrogen is an elixir for the brain, sharpening mental performance in humans and animals and showing promise as a treatment for disorders of the brain such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. But long-term estrogen therapy, once prescribed routinely for menopausal women, now is quite controversial because of research showing it increases the risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke.
Estrogen is an elixir for the brain, sharpening mental performance in humans and animals and showing promise as a treatment for disorders of the brain such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. But long-term estrogen therapy, once prescribed routinely for menopausal women, now is quite controversial because of research showing it increases the risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke.
Controlling cursors with thoughts: Faster, simpler, and more accurately; advance helps people regulate their own brain response, with therapeutic implications
Controlling cursors with thoughts: Faster, simpler, and more accurately; advance helps people regulate their own brain response, with therapeutic implications
Using a new brain-computer training approach, 14 volunteers learned in only six minutes how to move a screen cursor with their thoughts. Near-instant feedback helped the people quickly master some of their own brain responses.
Using a new brain-computer training approach, 14 volunteers learned in only six minutes how to move a screen cursor with their thoughts. Near-instant feedback helped the people quickly master some of their own brain responses.
November 18, 2010
MySpace Facebook Integration Deepened With 'Mashup' (VIDEO)
MySpace Facebook Integration Deepened With 'Mashup' (VIDEO)
In a sign of the companies' divergent fortunes, MySpace says it will let its users log in to their Facebook accounts through their MySpace page.
Doing so will port the likes and interests they have listed on their Facebook profiles to MySpace, where they will get a stream of entertainment content based on these interests.
In a sign of the companies' divergent fortunes, MySpace says it will let its users log in to their Facebook accounts through their MySpace page.
Doing so will port the likes and interests they have listed on their Facebook profiles to MySpace, where they will get a stream of entertainment content based on these interests.
Vitamin C may offer potential life-saving treatment for sepsis
Vitamin C may offer potential life-saving treatment for sepsis
Physicians caring for patients with sepsis may soon have a new safe and cost-effective treatment for this life-threatening illness. Research led by Dr. Karel Tyml and his colleagues at The University of Western Ontario and Lawson Health Research Institute have found that vitamin C can not only prevent the onset of sepsis, but can reverse the disease.
Physicians caring for patients with sepsis may soon have a new safe and cost-effective treatment for this life-threatening illness. Research led by Dr. Karel Tyml and his colleagues at The University of Western Ontario and Lawson Health Research Institute have found that vitamin C can not only prevent the onset of sepsis, but can reverse the disease.
For macaques, male bonding is a political move
For macaques, male bonding is a political move
Contrary to expectations, new evidence shows that unrelated male macaques in the wild form close and stable social partnerships with select males in their groups. Although the degree of emotional attachment obviously can't be measured, those relationships resemble human friendship, according to researchers who report their findings online on Nov. 18 in Current Biology.
Contrary to expectations, new evidence shows that unrelated male macaques in the wild form close and stable social partnerships with select males in their groups. Although the degree of emotional attachment obviously can't be measured, those relationships resemble human friendship, according to researchers who report their findings online on Nov. 18 in Current Biology.
New breed of space vehicle: Researchers developing conceptual design for a Mars 'hopper'
New breed of space vehicle: Researchers developing conceptual design for a Mars 'hopper'
Scientists and engineers at the internationally acclaimed Space Research Centre at the University of Leicester are developing a conceptual motor design for a Mars 'hopping' vehicle which should lead to a greater understanding of the 'Red Planet'.
Scientists and engineers at the internationally acclaimed Space Research Centre at the University of Leicester are developing a conceptual motor design for a Mars 'hopping' vehicle which should lead to a greater understanding of the 'Red Planet'.
What if we used poetry to teach computers to speak better?
What if we used poetry to teach computers to speak better?
A better understanding of how we use acoustic cues to stress new information and put old information in the background may help computer programmers produce more realistic-sounding speech. Dr. Michael Wagner, a researcher in McGill's Department of Linguistics, has compared the way French- and English-speakers evaluate poetry, as a way of finding evidence for a systematic difference in how the two languages use these cues.
A better understanding of how we use acoustic cues to stress new information and put old information in the background may help computer programmers produce more realistic-sounding speech. Dr. Michael Wagner, a researcher in McGill's Department of Linguistics, has compared the way French- and English-speakers evaluate poetry, as a way of finding evidence for a systematic difference in how the two languages use these cues.
FDA criticized for banning alcohol energy drinks - Health - msnbc.com
FDA criticized for banning alcohol energy drinks - Health - msnbc.com
While many health professionals and lawmakers are cheering the Food and Drug Administration's decision yesterday to declare caffeine an illegal and unsafe additive to manufactured alcoholic beverages, critics say the move is an infringement of consumer rights by the government.
While many health professionals and lawmakers are cheering the Food and Drug Administration's decision yesterday to declare caffeine an illegal and unsafe additive to manufactured alcoholic beverages, critics say the move is an infringement of consumer rights by the government.
Estrogen Makes You Smarter by Helping Brain Cells Chat - FoxNews.com
Estrogen Makes You Smarter by Helping Brain Cells Chat - FoxNews.com
The hormone estrogen can sharpen mental performance, and now scientists think they know why. Estrogen may boost the number of connections between brain cells, improving communication in the brain.
The hormone estrogen can sharpen mental performance, and now scientists think they know why. Estrogen may boost the number of connections between brain cells, improving communication in the brain.
Nearly 1 in 5 Americans had mental illness in 2009 | Reuters
Nearly 1 in 5 Americans had mental illness in 2009 | Reuters
More than 45 million Americans, or 20 percent of U.S. adults, had some form of mental illness last year, and 11 million had a serious illness, U.S. government researchers reported on Thursday.
More than 45 million Americans, or 20 percent of U.S. adults, had some form of mental illness last year, and 11 million had a serious illness, U.S. government researchers reported on Thursday.
Scientists find key to unlock mystery of why eating less slows aging
Scientists find key to unlock mystery of why eating less slows aging
American scientists have discovered the key to how eating less can lead to a longer, healthier life — an enzyme that curbs cell damage.
American scientists have discovered the key to how eating less can lead to a longer, healthier life — an enzyme that curbs cell damage.
Light at night causes changes in brain linked to depression
Light at night causes changes in brain linked to depression
Exposure to even dim light at night is enough to cause physical changes in the brains of hamsters that may be associated with depression, a new study shows.
Exposure to even dim light at night is enough to cause physical changes in the brains of hamsters that may be associated with depression, a new study shows.
Nine-year-old discovers Guinness World Record-setting maple leaf - The Globe and Mail
Nine-year-old discovers Guinness World Record-setting maple leaf - The Globe and Mail
Joseph Donato's giant maple leaf might not last forever, but the nine-year-old from Pickering, Ont., will probably remember it forever.
He marked Guinness World Records Day on Thursday by proudly displaying the giant specimen that he picked up on his way home from a park last month.
Without the stem, the leaf measures more than 34 by 29 centimetres, bigger than some serving platters. Joseph is trying to preserve it in a picture frame.
Joseph Donato's giant maple leaf might not last forever, but the nine-year-old from Pickering, Ont., will probably remember it forever.
He marked Guinness World Records Day on Thursday by proudly displaying the giant specimen that he picked up on his way home from a park last month.
Without the stem, the leaf measures more than 34 by 29 centimetres, bigger than some serving platters. Joseph is trying to preserve it in a picture frame.
Donald Trump says he may run for U.S. president - CTV News
Donald Trump says he may run for U.S. president - CTV News
Donald Trump says he's thinking about running for president, saying "everybody's ripping off the United States."
The real-estate mogul tells ABC television in an interview he doesn't actually want to run, but says he's worried about the country's future and thinks he could be the person to stand up to America's rivals.
Donald Trump says he's thinking about running for president, saying "everybody's ripping off the United States."
The real-estate mogul tells ABC television in an interview he doesn't actually want to run, but says he's worried about the country's future and thinks he could be the person to stand up to America's rivals.
Man Makes Ridiculously Complicated Chart To Find Out Who Owns His Mortgage
Man Makes Ridiculously Complicated Chart To Find Out Who Owns your Mortgage
But just how complicated? The chart below from Zero Hedge shows the convoluted journey a mortgage takes as it morphs into a security.
Dan Edstrom, of DTC Systems, who performs securitization audits, spent a year putting together a diagram that traces the path of his own house's mortgage. "Just When You Thought You Knew Something About Mortgage Securitizations," says Zero Hedge, you are presented with this almost hilariously complicated chart.
But just how complicated? The chart below from Zero Hedge shows the convoluted journey a mortgage takes as it morphs into a security.
Dan Edstrom, of DTC Systems, who performs securitization audits, spent a year putting together a diagram that traces the path of his own house's mortgage. "Just When You Thought You Knew Something About Mortgage Securitizations," says Zero Hedge, you are presented with this almost hilariously complicated chart.
FDA warns makers of caffeinated alcoholic drinks | Reuters
FDA warns makers of caffeinated alcoholic drinks | Reuters
U.S. regulators warned makers of caffeinated alcoholic drinks that their products are unsafe and violate federal laws, following a public outcry and several state bans.
U.S. regulators warned makers of caffeinated alcoholic drinks that their products are unsafe and violate federal laws, following a public outcry and several state bans.
Four in 10 say marriage is becoming obsolete - Health - Behavior - msnbc.com
Four in 10 say marriage is becoming obsolete - Health - Behavior
As families gather for Thanksgiving this year, nearly one in three American children is living with a parent who is divorced, separated or never-married. More people are accepting the view that wedding bells aren't needed to have a family.
As families gather for Thanksgiving this year, nearly one in three American children is living with a parent who is divorced, separated or never-married. More people are accepting the view that wedding bells aren't needed to have a family.
Can food additives affect ADHD? - CNN.com
Can food additives affect ADHD? - CNN.com
Part of the controversy lies in the fact that most food products contain more than one dye or preservative (some candy products have as many as 10 dyes). And most studies have looked at blends of additives, not single ingredients, making it difficult to sort out the culprits.
Part of the controversy lies in the fact that most food products contain more than one dye or preservative (some candy products have as many as 10 dyes). And most studies have looked at blends of additives, not single ingredients, making it difficult to sort out the culprits.
Epilepsy’s Big, Fat Miracle - NYTimes.com
Epilepsy’s Big, Fat Miracle - NYTimes.com
Elizabeth Thiele, the doctor who prescribed and oversees Sam’s diet, is the head of the pediatric epilepsy program at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, which is affiliated with Harvard Medical School. In fact, the regimen, known as the ketogenic diet, is now offered at more than 100 hospitals in the United States, Canada and other countries. We’re not opposed to drugs; we tried many. But Sam’s seizures were drug-resistant, and keto, the universal shorthand, often provides seizure control when drugs do not.
Elizabeth Thiele, the doctor who prescribed and oversees Sam’s diet, is the head of the pediatric epilepsy program at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, which is affiliated with Harvard Medical School. In fact, the regimen, known as the ketogenic diet, is now offered at more than 100 hospitals in the United States, Canada and other countries. We’re not opposed to drugs; we tried many. But Sam’s seizures were drug-resistant, and keto, the universal shorthand, often provides seizure control when drugs do not.
Antihydrogen trapped for first time
Antihydrogen trapped for first time
Physicists working at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland, have succeeded in trapping antihydrogen – the antimatter equivalent of the hydrogen atom – a milestone that could soon lead to experiments on a form of matter that disappeared mysteriously shortly after the birth of the universe 14 billion years ago.
Physicists working at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland, have succeeded in trapping antihydrogen – the antimatter equivalent of the hydrogen atom – a milestone that could soon lead to experiments on a form of matter that disappeared mysteriously shortly after the birth of the universe 14 billion years ago.
Months of geologic unrest signaled reawakening of Icelandic volcano
Months of geologic unrest signaled reawakening of Icelandic volcano
Months of volcanic restlessness preceded the eruptions this spring of Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull, providing insight into what roused it from centuries of slumber.
Months of volcanic restlessness preceded the eruptions this spring of Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull, providing insight into what roused it from centuries of slumber.
Tiny Trojan horses attack brain cancer cells
Tiny Trojan horses attack brain cancer cells
Scientists in Germany have developed a way of smuggling an anti-cancer drug past the protective blood-brain barrier and into brain tumours and metastases using a nanocarrier -- a tiny capsule specially designed to pass through cell membranes and deliver its anti-cancer drug to the cancer cell.
Scientists in Germany have developed a way of smuggling an anti-cancer drug past the protective blood-brain barrier and into brain tumours and metastases using a nanocarrier -- a tiny capsule specially designed to pass through cell membranes and deliver its anti-cancer drug to the cancer cell.
November 17, 2010
Take a Look up at the Leonid Meteor Shower This Week | 80beats | Discover Magazine
Take a Look up at the Leonid Meteor Shower This Week
The shower lasts for about two weeks, reaching its apex over the next few nights.
Viewers under a dark sky can expect to see around 20 meteors per hour radiating from the constellation Leo the Lion. Unfortunately, a waxing gibbous Moon interferes with observations for much of the night. The best views will come after the Moon sets around 3 a.m. local time. [Astronomy]
The shower lasts for about two weeks, reaching its apex over the next few nights.
Viewers under a dark sky can expect to see around 20 meteors per hour radiating from the constellation Leo the Lion. Unfortunately, a waxing gibbous Moon interferes with observations for much of the night. The best views will come after the Moon sets around 3 a.m. local time. [Astronomy]
Energy drink use may lead to alcohol dependence
Energy drink use may lead to alcohol dependence
Many adolescents and college students innocently ingest large amounts of energy drinks to stay awake. But, new research shows that energy drink over-use is strongly linked with increased risks of engaging in episodes of heavy drinking and developing alcohol dependence.
Many adolescents and college students innocently ingest large amounts of energy drinks to stay awake. But, new research shows that energy drink over-use is strongly linked with increased risks of engaging in episodes of heavy drinking and developing alcohol dependence.
Language may help create, not just convey, thoughts and feelings
Language may help create, not just convey, thoughts and feelings
The language we speak may influence not only our thoughts, but our implicit preferences as well. That's the finding of a study by psychologists at Harvard University, who found that bilingual individuals' opinions of different ethnic groups were affected by the language in which they took a test examining their biases and predilections.
The language we speak may influence not only our thoughts, but our implicit preferences as well. That's the finding of a study by psychologists at Harvard University, who found that bilingual individuals' opinions of different ethnic groups were affected by the language in which they took a test examining their biases and predilections.
Even Preschool Girls Favor Being Thin, Study Finds - FoxNews.com
Even Preschool Girls Favor Being Thin, Study Finds - FoxNews.com
Girls as young as 3 are already emotionally invested in being thin, to the point where some even will avoid touching game pieces that depict a fat individual, a small study on preschoolers suggests
Girls as young as 3 are already emotionally invested in being thin, to the point where some even will avoid touching game pieces that depict a fat individual, a small study on preschoolers suggests
November 16, 2010
Size of hippocampus may indicate early dementia
Size of hippocampus may indicate early dementia
The size of the part of the brain known as the hippocampus may be linked to future dementia, reveals a thesis from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
The size of the part of the brain known as the hippocampus may be linked to future dementia, reveals a thesis from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
Teenage amphetamine abuse affects adult brain cell function
Teenage amphetamine abuse affects adult brain cell function
Amphetamine abuse during adolescence permanently changes brain cells, according to new animal research. The study shows drug exposure during adolescence, but not young adulthood, altered electrical properties of brain cells in the cortex.
Amphetamine abuse during adolescence permanently changes brain cells, according to new animal research. The study shows drug exposure during adolescence, but not young adulthood, altered electrical properties of brain cells in the cortex.
Binge drinking in adolescence changes stress response in adulthood
Binge drinking in adolescence changes stress response in adulthood
Alcohol exposure during adolescence alters the body's ability to respond to stress in adulthood, according to new research in rats presented at Neuroscience 2010, the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, held in San Diego. Because problems regulating stress are associated with behavioral and mood disorders, the findings may indicate that binge drinking in adolescence leads to increased risk of anxiety or depression in adulthood.
Alcohol exposure during adolescence alters the body's ability to respond to stress in adulthood, according to new research in rats presented at Neuroscience 2010, the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, held in San Diego. Because problems regulating stress are associated with behavioral and mood disorders, the findings may indicate that binge drinking in adolescence leads to increased risk of anxiety or depression in adulthood.
Jet Lag Makes Hamsters Dumb - Science News
Jet Lag Makes Hamsters Dumb - Science News
In addition to making you groggy and dazed, jet lag may make you stupid. A study presented November 15 at the annual Society for Neuroscience meeting finds that hamsters suffering extreme, chronic jet lag had about half the normal rate of new neuron birth in a part of the brain. What’s more, these animals showed deficits in learning and memory.
In addition to making you groggy and dazed, jet lag may make you stupid. A study presented November 15 at the annual Society for Neuroscience meeting finds that hamsters suffering extreme, chronic jet lag had about half the normal rate of new neuron birth in a part of the brain. What’s more, these animals showed deficits in learning and memory.
New bandages change color if infections arise
New bandages change color if infections arise
Wounds have to be regularly checked, to make sure any complications in the healing process are detected at an early stage. A new material will make it possible to check wounds without changing the dressing: If an infection arises, the material changes its color.
Wounds have to be regularly checked, to make sure any complications in the healing process are detected at an early stage. A new material will make it possible to check wounds without changing the dressing: If an infection arises, the material changes its color.
Musicians less likely to experience age-related changes in the auditory cortex
Musicians less likely to experience age-related changes in the auditory cortex
The old adage "use it or lose it" applies to hearing, suggests a new study. Older musicians do not experience certain changes in the auditory cortex -- the part of the brain involved with hearing -- that are associated with aging, according to research presented at Neuroscience 2010, the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, held in San Diego.
The old adage "use it or lose it" applies to hearing, suggests a new study. Older musicians do not experience certain changes in the auditory cortex -- the part of the brain involved with hearing -- that are associated with aging, according to research presented at Neuroscience 2010, the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, held in San Diego.
FDA Move to Ban Alcoholic Energy Drinks - FoxNews.com
FDA Move to Ban Alcoholic Energy Drinks - FoxNews.com
A New York senator says federal regulators are expected to move to ban caffeinated alcoholic drinks as soon as this week.
A New York senator says federal regulators are expected to move to ban caffeinated alcoholic drinks as soon as this week.
Cockroaches could help fight infection - Science - NZ Herald Videos
Cockroaches could help fight infection - Science - NZ Herald Videos
Scientists say cockroaches may hold the key to killing the bacteria that threaten our lives.
Scientists say cockroaches may hold the key to killing the bacteria that threaten our lives.
Slap on your sun-greens - Science - NZ Herald News
Slap on your sun-greens - Science - NZ Herald News
"Broccoli contains sulforaphane, an antioxidant, which helps stop sunburn and tumour development.
Scientists in the United States have been testing broccoli extract on human volunteers and mice, which showed their skin was protected against sunburn."
"Broccoli contains sulforaphane, an antioxidant, which helps stop sunburn and tumour development.
Scientists in the United States have been testing broccoli extract on human volunteers and mice, which showed their skin was protected against sunburn."
Study: Early Marijuana Use May Increase Brain Damage - FoxNews.com
Study: Early Marijuana Use May Increase Brain Damage - FoxNews.com
The small study shows that smoking marijuana before the age of 16 leaves individuals with weakened executive function, such as planning, flexibility and abstract thinking.
The small study shows that smoking marijuana before the age of 16 leaves individuals with weakened executive function, such as planning, flexibility and abstract thinking.
Sound Sleeper? Thank Your Brain Waves - FoxNews.com
Sound Sleeper? Thank Your Brain Waves - FoxNews.com
Sleep spindles occur during stage 2 sleep, the period after dozing off and before deep sleep. To find out if these scribbles of activity influence the stability of sleep, study researcher Thien Thanh Dang-Vu, a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and his colleagues used electroencephalography (EEG). EEG uses electrodes on the scalp to measure electrical activity in the brain.
Sleep spindles occur during stage 2 sleep, the period after dozing off and before deep sleep. To find out if these scribbles of activity influence the stability of sleep, study researcher Thien Thanh Dang-Vu, a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and his colleagues used electroencephalography (EEG). EEG uses electrodes on the scalp to measure electrical activity in the brain.
When Teachers Highlight Gender, Kids Pick Up Stereotypes - FoxNews.com
When Teachers Highlight Gender, Kids Pick Up Stereotypes - FoxNews.com
A new study found that in classrooms where boys and girls line up separately — and even in settings where teachers say things like, "Good morning boys and girls" — children express more stereotypes about gender and even discriminate when deciding who to play with.
A new study found that in classrooms where boys and girls line up separately — and even in settings where teachers say things like, "Good morning boys and girls" — children express more stereotypes about gender and even discriminate when deciding who to play with.
Oxytocin increases advertising’s influence: Hormone heightened sensitivity to public service announcements
Oxytocin increases advertising’s influence: Hormone heightened sensitivity to public service announcements
The hormone oxytocin makes people more susceptible to advertising, according to new research presented at Neuroscience 2010, the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, held in San Diego. The findings suggest that advertisements may exploit the biological system for trust and empathy.
The hormone oxytocin makes people more susceptible to advertising, according to new research presented at Neuroscience 2010, the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, held in San Diego. The findings suggest that advertisements may exploit the biological system for trust and empathy.
November 15, 2010
CDC: Stretching doesn’t prevent injuries - Health - Fitness - msnbc.com
CDC: Stretching doesn’t prevent injuries - Health - Fitness
Stretching does not live up to its reputation as an injury preventer, a study has found.
Stretching does not live up to its reputation as an injury preventer, a study has found.
Early wrinkles no sign of an early grave, study says - Health - Skin and beauty - msnbc.com
Early wrinkles no sign of an early grave, study says - Health - Skin and beauty - msnbc.com
Early wrinkles, premature balding and gray hairs before you feel middle-aged can be distressing signs of time's relentless march. But looking older than you really are doesn't necessarily signal an early death, found a new study.
Early wrinkles, premature balding and gray hairs before you feel middle-aged can be distressing signs of time's relentless march. But looking older than you really are doesn't necessarily signal an early death, found a new study.
Binge drinking could hurt teens later in life - Health - Addictions - msnbc.com
Binge drinking could hurt teens later in life - Health - Addictions
Binge drinking during adolescence may permanently disrupt a person's stress hormones, leading to mental disorders in adulthood, based on new research on rats.
A study found that rats exposed to high levels of alcohol in adolescence have altered stress responses in young adulthood. These changes could produce disorders like anxiety and depression, the researchers reported today (Nov. 15) at the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience in San Diego.
Binge drinking during adolescence may permanently disrupt a person's stress hormones, leading to mental disorders in adulthood, based on new research on rats.
A study found that rats exposed to high levels of alcohol in adolescence have altered stress responses in young adulthood. These changes could produce disorders like anxiety and depression, the researchers reported today (Nov. 15) at the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience in San Diego.
Lies, Damned Lies, and Medical Science - Magazine - The Atlantic
Lies, Damned Lies, and Medical Science - Magazine - The Atlantic
Much of what medical researchers conclude in their studies is misleading, exaggerated, or flat-out wrong. So why are doctors—to a striking extent—still drawing upon misinformation in their everyday practice? Dr. John Ioannidis has spent his career challenging his peers by exposing their bad science.
Much of what medical researchers conclude in their studies is misleading, exaggerated, or flat-out wrong. So why are doctors—to a striking extent—still drawing upon misinformation in their everyday practice? Dr. John Ioannidis has spent his career challenging his peers by exposing their bad science.
Evidence Found for Youngest Black Hole Ever Seen - Yahoo! News
Evidence Found for Youngest Black Hole Ever Seen
A cosmic explosion seen 31 years ago may have been the birth cry of the youngest black hole ever observed, which could help researchers understand how black holes are born and evolve.
NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory picked up strong X-ray emissions coming from the region around an exploded star, or supernova, named SN 1979C, about 50 million light-years away in the Virgo cluster. The star was observed exploding in 1979
A cosmic explosion seen 31 years ago may have been the birth cry of the youngest black hole ever observed, which could help researchers understand how black holes are born and evolve.
NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory picked up strong X-ray emissions coming from the region around an exploded star, or supernova, named SN 1979C, about 50 million light-years away in the Virgo cluster. The star was observed exploding in 1979
'Racetrack' magnetic memory could make computer memory 100,000 times faster
'Racetrack' magnetic memory could make computer memory 100,000 times faster
Imagine a computer equipped with shock-proof memory that's 100,000 times faster and consumes less power than current hard disks. EPFL Professor Mathias Kläui is working on a new kind of "Racetrack" memory, a high-volume, ultra-rapid non-volatile read-write magnetic memory that may soon make such a device possible.
Imagine a computer equipped with shock-proof memory that's 100,000 times faster and consumes less power than current hard disks. EPFL Professor Mathias Kläui is working on a new kind of "Racetrack" memory, a high-volume, ultra-rapid non-volatile read-write magnetic memory that may soon make such a device possible.
Proof of extra dimensions possible next year: CERN | Reuters
Proof of extra dimensions possible next year: CERN | Reuters
Scientists at the CERN research center say their "Big Bang" project is going beyond all expectations and the first proof of the existence of dimensions beyond the known four could emerge next year.
Scientists at the CERN research center say their "Big Bang" project is going beyond all expectations and the first proof of the existence of dimensions beyond the known four could emerge next year.
Scientists Propose One-Way Trips To Mars
Scientists Propose One-Way Trips To Mars
Invoking the spirit of "Star Trek" in a scholarly article entitled "To Boldly Go," two scientists contend human travel to Mars could happen much more quickly and cheaply if the missions are made one-way. They argue that it would be little different from early settlers to North America, who left Europe with little expectation of return.
Invoking the spirit of "Star Trek" in a scholarly article entitled "To Boldly Go," two scientists contend human travel to Mars could happen much more quickly and cheaply if the missions are made one-way. They argue that it would be little different from early settlers to North America, who left Europe with little expectation of return.
Popular energy drinks have hidden risks - Yahoo! News
Popular energy drinks have hidden risks - Yahoo! News
NEW YORK (Reuters Life!) – Energy drinks are hugely popular, but each one could be giving you more caffeine than a cup of coffee, a study said.
In addition, that caffeine could combine with other ingredients in potentially risky ways, with the use of energy drinks with alcohol a particular concern.
NEW YORK (Reuters Life!) – Energy drinks are hugely popular, but each one could be giving you more caffeine than a cup of coffee, a study said.
In addition, that caffeine could combine with other ingredients in potentially risky ways, with the use of energy drinks with alcohol a particular concern.
Quantum memory for communication networks of the future
Quantum memory for communication networks of the future
Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen have succeeded in storing quantum information using two 'entangled' light beams. Quantum memory or information storage is a necessary element of future quantum communication networks. The new findings are published in Nature Physics.
Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen have succeeded in storing quantum information using two 'entangled' light beams. Quantum memory or information storage is a necessary element of future quantum communication networks. The new findings are published in Nature Physics.
BBC News - Unilever says sustainability key to new business model
BBC News - Unilever says sustainability key to new business model
"executive Paul Polman said the new model was 'the only way to do business long term'.
The company said it would produce an annual report on its progress towards achieving these goals.
"executive Paul Polman said the new model was 'the only way to do business long term'.
The company said it would produce an annual report on its progress towards achieving these goals.
November 14, 2010
Cellphones and Cancer - A Far-From-Settled Issue - NYTimes.com
Cellphones and Cancer - A Far-From-Settled Issue - NYTimes.com
"WARNING: Holding a cellphone against your ear may be hazardous to your health. So may stuffing it in a pocket against your body."
"WARNING: Holding a cellphone against your ear may be hazardous to your health. So may stuffing it in a pocket against your body."
Red light forces cancer cells to suck up drugs - health - 13 November 2010 - New Scientist
Red light forces cancer cells to suck up drugs - New Scientist
CELLS absorb chemotherapy drugs more readily if they are zapped with red light. The finding could help produce more effective cancer treatments.
CELLS absorb chemotherapy drugs more readily if they are zapped with red light. The finding could help produce more effective cancer treatments.
Cocoa genome will lead to chocolate that can improve your health - Telegraph
Cocoa genome will lead to chocolate that can improve your health - Telegraph
Chocolate capable of fighting heart disease and offering other major health benefits could be available within five years following work by scientists to unlock the genetic code of the cocoa tree.
Chocolate capable of fighting heart disease and offering other major health benefits could be available within five years following work by scientists to unlock the genetic code of the cocoa tree.
Mathematical equation calculates cost of walking for first time
Mathematical equation calculates cost of walking for first time
Any parent that takes their kid out for a walk knows that children tire more quickly than adults, but why is that? Do kids and small adults walk differently from taller people or do they tire faster for some other reason? Peter Weyand from Southern Methodist University, USA, is fascinated by the effect that body size has on physiological function.
Any parent that takes their kid out for a walk knows that children tire more quickly than adults, but why is that? Do kids and small adults walk differently from taller people or do they tire faster for some other reason? Peter Weyand from Southern Methodist University, USA, is fascinated by the effect that body size has on physiological function.
Specialized blood vessels jumpstart and sustain liver regeneration
Specialized blood vessels jumpstart and sustain liver regeneration
The liver's unique ability among organs to regenerate itself has been little understood. Now Weill Cornell Medical College scientists have shed light on how the liver restores itself by demonstrating that endothelial cells -- the cells that form the lining of blood vessels -- play a key role.
The liver's unique ability among organs to regenerate itself has been little understood. Now Weill Cornell Medical College scientists have shed light on how the liver restores itself by demonstrating that endothelial cells -- the cells that form the lining of blood vessels -- play a key role.
November 13, 2010
Game addict kids hit by ‘extinct’ bone disease |
Game addict kids hit by ‘extinct’ bone disease
CRIPPLING bone disease rickets has made a shock comeback - because kids are staying indoors with video games instead of playing in the sunshine.
The condition - rife in gloomy 19th-century slums but wiped out in Britain in the 1930s - has been found in more than A FIFTH of children in a Southampton study.
CRIPPLING bone disease rickets has made a shock comeback - because kids are staying indoors with video games instead of playing in the sunshine.
The condition - rife in gloomy 19th-century slums but wiped out in Britain in the 1930s - has been found in more than A FIFTH of children in a Southampton study.
Do You Drink Too Much? - FoxNews.com
Do You Drink Too Much? - FoxNews.com
But is there a point when “frequently drunk” becomes “infrequently sober?” Are you really sure that your drinking poses no threat to your social, work or physical health? Considering that an estimated 12 to 14 million Americans (about 1 in 12 adults) have a drinking problem, but only 8 million of these are alcoholics, you may not be pouring whiskey on your cornflakes just yet, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn't ask yourself if you drink too much.
But is there a point when “frequently drunk” becomes “infrequently sober?” Are you really sure that your drinking poses no threat to your social, work or physical health? Considering that an estimated 12 to 14 million Americans (about 1 in 12 adults) have a drinking problem, but only 8 million of these are alcoholics, you may not be pouring whiskey on your cornflakes just yet, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn't ask yourself if you drink too much.
SETI Astronomers Launch New Campaign to Eavesdrop on E.T. - Yahoo! News
SETI Astronomers Launch New Campaign to Eavesdrop on E.T. - Yahoo! News
In a vast cosmic experiment equivalent to hitting "redial," astronomers in a dozen countries are aiming telescopes to listen in once again on some of the stars that were part of the world's first search for alien life 50 years ago.
The coordinated signal-searching campaign began this month to mark the 50th anniversary of Project Ozma, a 1960 experiment that was christened the world's first real attempt in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence – or SETI.
In a vast cosmic experiment equivalent to hitting "redial," astronomers in a dozen countries are aiming telescopes to listen in once again on some of the stars that were part of the world's first search for alien life 50 years ago.
The coordinated signal-searching campaign began this month to mark the 50th anniversary of Project Ozma, a 1960 experiment that was christened the world's first real attempt in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence – or SETI.
Decisions made by communities of bacteria trump game theory
Decisions made by communities of bacteria trump game theory
When it comes to gambling, many people rely on game theory, a branch of applied mathematics that attempts to measure the choices of others to inform their own decisions. It's used in economics, politics, medicine -- and, of course, Las Vegas. But recent findings from a Tel Aviv University researcher suggest that we may put ourselves on the winning side if we look to bacteria instead.
When it comes to gambling, many people rely on game theory, a branch of applied mathematics that attempts to measure the choices of others to inform their own decisions. It's used in economics, politics, medicine -- and, of course, Las Vegas. But recent findings from a Tel Aviv University researcher suggest that we may put ourselves on the winning side if we look to bacteria instead.
Fearless children show less empathy, more aggression, research finds
Fearless children show less empathy, more aggression, research finds
Preschool-aged children who demonstrate fearless behavior also reveal less empathy and more aggression towards their peers. This has been shown in a new study that was carried out at the University of Haifa's Faculty of Education.
Preschool-aged children who demonstrate fearless behavior also reveal less empathy and more aggression towards their peers. This has been shown in a new study that was carried out at the University of Haifa's Faculty of Education.
Creams used to treat eczema could make it worse, study suggests
Creams used to treat eczema could make it worse, study suggests
New research at the University of Bath suggests that using emollient creams to relieve the symptoms of eczema could actually make the condition worse.
New research at the University of Bath suggests that using emollient creams to relieve the symptoms of eczema could actually make the condition worse.
November 11, 2010
Oil spill's toxic trade-off: Scientific American
Oil spill's toxic trade-off: Scientific American
Dispersed oil from the Deepwater Horizon disaster could be more dangerous to wildlife than reports suggest
Dispersed oil from the Deepwater Horizon disaster could be more dangerous to wildlife than reports suggest
From brain science, new questions about free will
From brain science, new questions about free will
Philosophers since ancient times have struggled with the question of whether humans have any free will. With forces such as God or molecular interactions—depending on whom you asked and when—said to ultimately control everything, can humans really make any decisions “indepen dently”?
Philosophers since ancient times have struggled with the question of whether humans have any free will. With forces such as God or molecular interactions—depending on whom you asked and when—said to ultimately control everything, can humans really make any decisions “indepen dently”?
How Reading Rewires the Brain - ScienceNOW
How Reading Rewires the Brain - ScienceNOW
Written language poses a puzzle for neuroscientists. Unlocking the meaning in a string of symbols requires complex neural circuitry. Yet humans have been reading and writing for only about 5000 years—too short for major evolutionary changes. Instead, reading likely depends on circuits that originally evolved for other purposes. But which ones?
Written language poses a puzzle for neuroscientists. Unlocking the meaning in a string of symbols requires complex neural circuitry. Yet humans have been reading and writing for only about 5000 years—too short for major evolutionary changes. Instead, reading likely depends on circuits that originally evolved for other purposes. But which ones?
Deaf adults see better than hearing people, new study finds
Deaf adults see better than hearing people, new study finds
Adults born deaf react more quickly to objects at the edge of their visual field than hearing people, according to groundbreaking new research by the University of Sheffield.
Adults born deaf react more quickly to objects at the edge of their visual field than hearing people, according to groundbreaking new research by the University of Sheffield.
Alcohol can damage much more than just the liver
Alcohol can damage much more than just the liver
Alcohol can do much more harm to the body than just damaging the liver. Drinking also can weaken the immune system, slow healing, impair bone formation, increase the risk of HIV transmission and hinder recovery from burns, trauma, bleeding and surgery.
Alcohol can do much more harm to the body than just damaging the liver. Drinking also can weaken the immune system, slow healing, impair bone formation, increase the risk of HIV transmission and hinder recovery from burns, trauma, bleeding and surgery.
Genetics has a big impact on how a person operates in a social group
Genetics has a big impact on how a person operates in a social group
How well a person performs in a coalition is partly hereditary, according to a recent study. Researchers found that how successfully an individual operates in a group is as much down to having the right genetic make-up as it is to having common cultural ties with fellow group members.
How well a person performs in a coalition is partly hereditary, according to a recent study. Researchers found that how successfully an individual operates in a group is as much down to having the right genetic make-up as it is to having common cultural ties with fellow group members.
Gold Nanoparticles Could Transform Trees Into Street Lights | Inhabitat - Green Design Will Save the World
Gold Nanoparticles Could Transform Trees Into Street Lights
"“Light emitting diode (LED) has replaced traditional light source in many display panels and street lights on the road. A lot of light emitting diode, especially white light emitting diode, uses phosphor powder to stimulate light of different wavelengths. However, phosphor powder is highly toxic and its price is expensive."
"“Light emitting diode (LED) has replaced traditional light source in many display panels and street lights on the road. A lot of light emitting diode, especially white light emitting diode, uses phosphor powder to stimulate light of different wavelengths. However, phosphor powder is highly toxic and its price is expensive."
Expedia on how one extra data field can cost $12m | Sales & Marketing | silicon.com
Expedia on how one extra data field can cost $12m | Sales & Marketing | silicon.com
"in their bank name, these customers then went on to enter the address of their bank, rather than their home address, in the address field."
"in their bank name, these customers then went on to enter the address of their bank, rather than their home address, in the address field."
How Monsanto Monopolizes Genetically Modified Seeds
How Monsanto Monopolizes Genetically Modified Seeds
Over the past 15 years or so, a collection of five giant biotech corporations -- Monsanto, Syngenta, Bayer, Dow and DuPont -- have bought up more than 200 other companies, allowing them to dominate access to seeds.
Over the past 15 years or so, a collection of five giant biotech corporations -- Monsanto, Syngenta, Bayer, Dow and DuPont -- have bought up more than 200 other companies, allowing them to dominate access to seeds.
Washington state bans alcoholic energy drinks - CNN.com
Washington state bans alcoholic energy drinks - CNN.com
The Washington state Liquor Control Board on Wednesday banned the sale of alcoholic energy drinks after a group of college students got sick from consuming a drink nicknamed "blackout in a can."
The Washington state Liquor Control Board on Wednesday banned the sale of alcoholic energy drinks after a group of college students got sick from consuming a drink nicknamed "blackout in a can."
Sugar and slice make graphene real nice: Table sugar, metallic sheets produce pristine graphene in one step
Sugar and slice make graphene real nice: Table sugar, metallic sheets produce pristine graphene in one step
Future computers may run a little sweeter, thanks to a refinement in the manufacture of graphene at Rice University.
Future computers may run a little sweeter, thanks to a refinement in the manufacture of graphene at Rice University.
Cricket Has World's Biggest Testicles (But Puny Output)
Cricket Has World's Biggest Testicles (But Puny Output)
The new title for world's biggest testicles (relative to body weight) goes to the tuberous bushcricket, a type of katydid, according to a new study.
The new title for world's biggest testicles (relative to body weight) goes to the tuberous bushcricket, a type of katydid, according to a new study.
Saturn is on a cosmic dimmer switch, Cassini reveals
Saturn is on a cosmic dimmer switch, Cassini reveals
Like a cosmic light bulb on a dimmer switch, Saturn emitted gradually less energy each year from 2005 to 2009, according to observations by NASA's Cassini spacecraft. But unlike an ordinary bulb, Saturn's southern hemisphere consistently emitted more energy than its northern one. On top of that, energy levels changed with the seasons and differed from the last time a spacecraft visited in the early 1980s.
Like a cosmic light bulb on a dimmer switch, Saturn emitted gradually less energy each year from 2005 to 2009, according to observations by NASA's Cassini spacecraft. But unlike an ordinary bulb, Saturn's southern hemisphere consistently emitted more energy than its northern one. On top of that, energy levels changed with the seasons and differed from the last time a spacecraft visited in the early 1980s.
Giant space bubbles baffle astronomers - Telegraph
Giant space bubbles baffle astronomers - Telegraph
the bubbles were created by an eruption from a supersized black hole at the centre of our galax"
the bubbles were created by an eruption from a supersized black hole at the centre of our galax"
November 10, 2010
Women 'most likely to fall for internet scams' | Money | guardian.co.uk
Women 'most likely to fall for internet scams'
Professional women aged 25-34 are most likely to fall victim of online scams, according to new research published today.
Professional women aged 25-34 are most likely to fall victim of online scams, according to new research published today.
Eat a carrot, hurt the economy? Sometimes - Health - Diet and nutrition - msnbc.com
Eat a carrot, hurt the economy? Sometimes - Health - Diet and nutrition - msnbc.com
In Britain, experts estimated that fixing the country's bad eating habits might prevent nearly 70,000 people from prematurely dying of diet-related health problems like heart disease and cancer. It would also theoretically save the health system 20 billion pounds ($32 billion) every year.
In Brazil, however, the rates of illnesses linked to a poor diet are not as high as in the U.K. So Brazilians would get relatively few health benefits while their economy might lose millions.
In Britain, experts estimated that fixing the country's bad eating habits might prevent nearly 70,000 people from prematurely dying of diet-related health problems like heart disease and cancer. It would also theoretically save the health system 20 billion pounds ($32 billion) every year.
In Brazil, however, the rates of illnesses linked to a poor diet are not as high as in the U.K. So Brazilians would get relatively few health benefits while their economy might lose millions.
Omega-3's linked to a lower risk of gum disease | Reuters
Omega-3's linked to a lower risk of gum disease | Reuters
People who consume a good amount of omega-3's -- the fatty acids predominantly found in oily fish -- may have a lower risk of developing gum disease, suggests a new study.
People who consume a good amount of omega-3's -- the fatty acids predominantly found in oily fish -- may have a lower risk of developing gum disease, suggests a new study.
Rare Earth Metals May Trigger Trade Wars : Discovery News
Rare Earth Metals May Trigger Trade Wars
Elements such as gallium, indium, selenium, tellurium and high-purity silicon are needed to make photovoltaic panels. For high capacity batteries like those used in hybrid and electric cars, manufacturers need zinc, vanadium, lithium and rare earth elements. Fuel cells require platinum group minerals.
Elements such as gallium, indium, selenium, tellurium and high-purity silicon are needed to make photovoltaic panels. For high capacity batteries like those used in hybrid and electric cars, manufacturers need zinc, vanadium, lithium and rare earth elements. Fuel cells require platinum group minerals.
November 9, 2010
Hydrogen fuel cell from seawater
Hydrogen fuel cell from seawater
Researchers have developed a method that uses aluminum and a liquid alloy to extract hydrogen from seawater to run engines in boats and ships, representing a potential replacement for gasoline and diesel fuel in marine applications.
Researchers have developed a method that uses aluminum and a liquid alloy to extract hydrogen from seawater to run engines in boats and ships, representing a potential replacement for gasoline and diesel fuel in marine applications.
Study links 45,000 U.S. deaths to lack of insurance | Reuters
Study links 45,000 U.S. deaths to lack of insurance
"We're losing more Americans every day because of inaction ... than drunk driving and homicide combined," Dr. David Himmelstein
"We're losing more Americans every day because of inaction ... than drunk driving and homicide combined," Dr. David Himmelstein
How Some People's Bodies Control HIV Infection
Findings: How Some People's Bodies Control HIV Infection
Scientists have discovered tiny variations in human cells that make it possible for some HIV-positive people to lead healthy lives without taking medication.
Scientists have discovered tiny variations in human cells that make it possible for some HIV-positive people to lead healthy lives without taking medication.
Taiwan passes new law on breastfeeding in public - Yahoo! News
Taiwan passes new law on breastfeeding in public
Under the new rule, anyone attempting to prevent breastfeeding in public will face a fine of up to 30,000 Taiwan dollars (990 US dollars), according to the Department of Health.
Under the new rule, anyone attempting to prevent breastfeeding in public will face a fine of up to 30,000 Taiwan dollars (990 US dollars), according to the Department of Health.
Chocolate eaters may have healthier hearts: study - Health - msnbc.com
Chocolate eaters may have healthier hearts
Older women who eat more chocolate are less likely to develop heart problems over a nearly 10-year-period, new study findings report.
Older women who eat more chocolate are less likely to develop heart problems over a nearly 10-year-period, new study findings report.
Cannabis compounds make females more masculine - life - 08 November 2010 - New Scientist
Cannabis compounds make females more masculine - New Scientist
Without treatment, female rats produced between 30 and 50 per cent more glial cells – which help maintain homeostasis and protect neurons – in the amygdala than males. They also played 30 to 40 per cent less than males. But females that were given cannabinoid compounds had cell proliferation rates and play behaviour similar to those of males.
Without treatment, female rats produced between 30 and 50 per cent more glial cells – which help maintain homeostasis and protect neurons – in the amygdala than males. They also played 30 to 40 per cent less than males. But females that were given cannabinoid compounds had cell proliferation rates and play behaviour similar to those of males.
Texting Teens: Sex And Drug Use More Common In Hyper-Texting Teens
Texting Teens: Sex And Drug Use More Common In Hyper-Texting Teens
The study found those who text at least 120 times a day are nearly three-and-a-half times more likely to have had sex than their peers who don't text that much. Hyper-texters were also more likely to have been in a physical fight, binge drink, use illegal drugs or take medication without a prescription.
The study found those who text at least 120 times a day are nearly three-and-a-half times more likely to have had sex than their peers who don't text that much. Hyper-texters were also more likely to have been in a physical fight, binge drink, use illegal drugs or take medication without a prescription.
Sight of meat calms us: study
Sight of meat calms us: study
Results from a McGill University study, released yesterday, suggest that people -men, anyways -become less aggressive at the sight of meat.
Results from a McGill University study, released yesterday, suggest that people -men, anyways -become less aggressive at the sight of meat.
Dangerous chemicals in food wrappers likely migrating to humans
Dangerous chemicals in food wrappers likely migrating to humans
University of Toronto scientists have found that chemicals used to line junk food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags are migrating into food and being ingested by people where they are contributing to chemical contamination observed in blood.
University of Toronto scientists have found that chemicals used to line junk food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags are migrating into food and being ingested by people where they are contributing to chemical contamination observed in blood.
November 8, 2010
Fast-food restaurants target kids, study shows | Reuters
Fast-food restaurants target kids, study shows | Reuters
Fast-food restaurants are stepping up efforts to market themselves and unhealthy food products to children and toddlers with television ads, websites and even their own menus, researchers said on Monday.
Fast-food restaurants are stepping up efforts to market themselves and unhealthy food products to children and toddlers with television ads, websites and even their own menus, researchers said on Monday.
Is your laptop cooking your testicles? | Reuters
Is your laptop cooking your testicles? | Reuters
Turns out, unsurprisingly, that sitting with a computer on your lap will crank up the temperature of your nether regions, which could affect sperm quality.
Turns out, unsurprisingly, that sitting with a computer on your lap will crank up the temperature of your nether regions, which could affect sperm quality.
BBC News - Painkillers 'risky in pregnancy'
BBC News - Painkillers 'risky in pregnancy'
Research suggests the paracetamol and other painkiller drugs increase the risk of undescended testicles in male babies, a condition linked to infertility and cancer in later life.
Research suggests the paracetamol and other painkiller drugs increase the risk of undescended testicles in male babies, a condition linked to infertility and cancer in later life.
Twinkie diet helps nutrition professor lose 27 pounds - CNN.com
Twinkie diet helps nutrition professor lose 27 pounds - CNN.com
The premise held up: On his "convenience store diet," he shed 27 pounds in two months.
For a class project, Haub limited himself to less than 1,800 calories a day. A man of Haub's pre-dieting size usually consumes about 2,600 calories daily. So he followed a basic principle of weight loss: He consumed significantly fewer calories than he burned.
His body mass index went from 28.8, considered overweight, to 24.9, which is normal. He now weighs 174 pounds.
The premise held up: On his "convenience store diet," he shed 27 pounds in two months.
For a class project, Haub limited himself to less than 1,800 calories a day. A man of Haub's pre-dieting size usually consumes about 2,600 calories daily. So he followed a basic principle of weight loss: He consumed significantly fewer calories than he burned.
His body mass index went from 28.8, considered overweight, to 24.9, which is normal. He now weighs 174 pounds.
BBC News - Whitehall business plans website 'to shift power'
BBC News - Whitehall business plans website 'to shift power'
David Cameron has launched a website where government departments set out their business plans and timetables for achieving them.
David Cameron has launched a website where government departments set out their business plans and timetables for achieving them.
'Super-hero' material stretched into a possible electronics revolution
'Super-hero' material stretched into a possible electronics revolution
europium titanate is "electric (electrically polarized) and ferromagnetic (exhibiting a permanent magnetic field) when stretched across a substrate of"
europium titanate is "electric (electrically polarized) and ferromagnetic (exhibiting a permanent magnetic field) when stretched across a substrate of"
BBC - Earth News - Slave-making ants target the strong not the weak
BBC - Earth News - Slave-making ants target the strong not the weak
Ants were observed actively choosing to attack larger, better defended colonies over smaller, weaker ones.
Scientists suggest that the intelligent ants identify strong defences as a sign of a strong population.
By conducting fewer raids on strongly defended targets, the slave-making ants actually limit the risks and come away with the most pupae to enslave.
Ants were observed actively choosing to attack larger, better defended colonies over smaller, weaker ones.
Scientists suggest that the intelligent ants identify strong defences as a sign of a strong population.
By conducting fewer raids on strongly defended targets, the slave-making ants actually limit the risks and come away with the most pupae to enslave.
Beer Lubricated the Rise of Civilization, Study Suggests - Yahoo! News
Beer Lubricated the Rise of Civilization, Study Suggests - Yahoo! News
"May beer have helped lead to the rise of civilization? It's a possibility, some archaeologists say.
Their argument is that Stone Age farmers were domesticating cereals not so much to fill their stomachs but to lighten their heads, by turning the grains into beer. That has been their take for more than 50 years, and now one archaeologist says the evidence is getting stronger."
"May beer have helped lead to the rise of civilization? It's a possibility, some archaeologists say.
Their argument is that Stone Age farmers were domesticating cereals not so much to fill their stomachs but to lighten their heads, by turning the grains into beer. That has been their take for more than 50 years, and now one archaeologist says the evidence is getting stronger."
Fingers detect typos even when conscious brain doesn't
Fingers detect typos even when conscious brain doesn't
Expert typists are able to zoom across the keyboard without ever thinking about which fingers are pressing the keys. New research from Vanderbilt University reveals that this skill is managed by an autopilot, one that is able to catch errors that can fool our conscious brain.
Expert typists are able to zoom across the keyboard without ever thinking about which fingers are pressing the keys. New research from Vanderbilt University reveals that this skill is managed by an autopilot, one that is able to catch errors that can fool our conscious brain.
BBC News - Large Hadron Collider (LHC) generates a 'mini-Big Bang'
BBC News - Large Hadron Collider (LHC) generates a 'mini-Big Bang'
The Large Hadron Collider has successfully created a "mini-Big Bang" by smashing together lead ions instead of protons.
The Large Hadron Collider has successfully created a "mini-Big Bang" by smashing together lead ions instead of protons.
Reasons for Having Sex Influence Satisfaction, Study Finds - FoxNews.com
Reasons for Having Sex Influence Satisfaction, Study Finds
Sexual satisfaction is usually thought of in terms of number of orgasms and time spent between the sheets. But a new study finds that a person's reasons for doing the deed can influence how satisfied they are afterward.
Sexual satisfaction is usually thought of in terms of number of orgasms and time spent between the sheets. But a new study finds that a person's reasons for doing the deed can influence how satisfied they are afterward.
November 7, 2010
The Hidden Agenda: The Fluoride Deception | Sovereign Independent
The Hidden Agenda: The Fluoride Deception
DR. Monteith goes over the history of fluoride, its use, its dangers and its promotion over time. Why something that is rejected by so many nations is promoted here in the USA. Learn about the Hidden Agenda behind the use of Fluoride, who’s behind it and the real purpose behind its use. Shocking video
DR. Monteith goes over the history of fluoride, its use, its dangers and its promotion over time. Why something that is rejected by so many nations is promoted here in the USA. Learn about the Hidden Agenda behind the use of Fluoride, who’s behind it and the real purpose behind its use. Shocking video
On the Way to CO2-Free Power Plants
The Technische Universität Darmstadt has dedicated a pilot plant for capturing carbon dioxide contained in flue gases of power plants. Its Institute for Energy Systems and Technology plans to utilize the plant for investigating two innovative methods for CO2 capture that require less energy and lower operating costs than earlier approaches.
Tuna black market worth billions of dollars
The craze for sushi has fueled a black market in tuna worth billions of dollars, as governments collaborate with the industry despite fears for the species' survival, an investigation found.
Looking Older Than Your Age May Not Be a Sign of Poor Health
Even though most adults want to avoid looking older than their actual age, research led by St. Michael's Hospital shows that looking older does not necessarily point to poor health. The study found that a person needed to look at least 10 years older than their actual age before assumptions about their health could be made.
November 6, 2010
Mexico kills top drug lord at U.S. border | Reuters
Mexico kills top drug lord at U.S. border | Reuters
Mexican marines killed drug baron Ezequiel "Tony Tormenta" Cardenas in a ferocious gunfight at the U.S. border on Friday, a fleeting victory for President Felipe Calderon that is unlikely to quell raging violence.
Mexican marines killed drug baron Ezequiel "Tony Tormenta" Cardenas in a ferocious gunfight at the U.S. border on Friday, a fleeting victory for President Felipe Calderon that is unlikely to quell raging violence.
November 5, 2010
How Science Can Determine Human Values (Review)
Sam Harris: How Science Can Determine Human Values (Review)
"Why not allow for such a society today without condemnation? For some reason over the millennia, most of us seem to have gleaned that such a society is not the best way to achieve human flourishing. Mankind also may have some who are ahead of the curve in this regard. In a fascinating aside on the neurology of psychopathy, Harris conjectures that, just as there are specimens representing the utmost of human moral depravity, there must be those who exemplify moral excellence -- a genetic and cognitive basis for that campy high school superlative: moral fiber."
"Why not allow for such a society today without condemnation? For some reason over the millennia, most of us seem to have gleaned that such a society is not the best way to achieve human flourishing. Mankind also may have some who are ahead of the curve in this regard. In a fascinating aside on the neurology of psychopathy, Harris conjectures that, just as there are specimens representing the utmost of human moral depravity, there must be those who exemplify moral excellence -- a genetic and cognitive basis for that campy high school superlative: moral fiber."
Lies, Damned Lies, and Medical Science - Magazine - The Atlantic
Lies, Damned Lies, and Medical Science - Magazine - The Atlantic
MUCH OF WHAT MEDICAL RESEARCHERS CONCLUDE IN THEIR STUDIES IS MISLEADING, EXAGGERATED, OR FLAT-OUT WRONG. SO WHY ARE DOCTORS—TO A STRIKING EXTENT—STILL DRAWING UPON MISINFORMATION IN THEIR EVERYDAY PRACTICE? DR. JOHN IOANNIDIS HAS SPENT HIS CAREER CHALLENGING HIS PEERS BY EXPOSING THEIR BAD SCIENCE.
MUCH OF WHAT MEDICAL RESEARCHERS CONCLUDE IN THEIR STUDIES IS MISLEADING, EXAGGERATED, OR FLAT-OUT WRONG. SO WHY ARE DOCTORS—TO A STRIKING EXTENT—STILL DRAWING UPON MISINFORMATION IN THEIR EVERYDAY PRACTICE? DR. JOHN IOANNIDIS HAS SPENT HIS CAREER CHALLENGING HIS PEERS BY EXPOSING THEIR BAD SCIENCE.
Neanderthals were more promiscuous than modern humans, fossil finger bones suggest
Neanderthals were more promiscuous than modern humans, fossil finger bones suggest
Fossil finger bones of early human ancestors suggest that Neanderthals were more promiscuous than human populations today, researchers at the universities of Liverpool and Oxford have found.
Fossil finger bones of early human ancestors suggest that Neanderthals were more promiscuous than human populations today, researchers at the universities of Liverpool and Oxford have found.
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