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Science News for August 3, 2006


Astronomers crunch numbers, universe gets bigger

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new method for calculating intergalactic distances, which implies that the Hubble constant may be significantly off the mark. The Triangulum Galaxy is estimated to be 15% farther away from our galaxy than previously measured, potentially making the universe 15% bigger and older.

Blood clot fibers more elastic than spider's web

Researchers at Wake Forest University discovered that fibrin fibers can be stretched up to four times their length before breaking, making them the most stretchable natural fibers known. This discovery has significant implications for understanding blood clot properties and developing new treatments for heart attacks and strokes.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalScience·DateAug 3, 2006

Irrational decisions driven by emotions

A new study at University College London found that humans often act irrationally when faced with difficult decisions, driven by emotional reactions. Participants were more likely to gamble at the threat of losing £30 than the offer of keeping £20, despite both options resulting in the same outcome.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience·DateAug 3, 2006

Sequencing the genome of a new kind of methane producer

Researchers from Max Planck Institute successfully sequenced the genome of a methane-producing Rice Cluster I Archaeon, revealing unique enzymatic mechanisms that enable them to thrive in oxygen-rich environments. This breakthrough could pave the way for developing methods to monitor and potentially reduce methane emissions from floode...

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateAug 3, 2006

DNA to the defense

African sleeping sickness parasite Trypanosoma brucei evolves an unusual chromosomal structure to diversify its VSG genes and evade human immune response. This adaptation enables the parasite to change protein expression rapidly, allowing it to persist in a host population.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateAug 3, 2006

The 'planemo' twins

Astronomers have discovered a double planetary mass object in the Ophiuchus star-forming region, approximately 400 light years away. The objects, which are similar to extra-solar giant planets, are not orbiting around a star but instead appear to be circling each other.

SourceESO·JournalScience·DateAug 3, 2006

Strategies that teach a caregiver to manage a loved one's illness also helps in coping with death

A University of Pittsburgh-led study found that caregiving interventions for dementia can also prevent complicated grief and depression after the loved one's death. The study, which followed 1,222 caregivers, showed that reducing caregiver burden, treating depression, and providing supportive psychosocial interventions can help caregiv...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateAug 3, 2006

Biofuels researcher searches for new sources

Researchers at Montana State University are investigating the potential of producing biofuels from various straws, hays, and silages in Montana. They aim to find more efficient methods for converting biomass into sugars and fermenting them into fuel, with the goal of making these new ethanol production methods competitive.

Research finds vigorous exercise equals better academics

A Michigan State University study found that sixth-grade students who engaged in more vigorous physical activity performed approximately 10 percent better in core subjects like math and science. The research suggests that vigorous exercise is linked to improved academic outcomes, not just physical education participation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateAug 3, 2006

Studies examine physician disclosure of medical errors

Two University of Iowa studies examine factors that hinder or help physicians disclose medical errors. The research reveals a range of positive and negative motivations, including responsibility to patients, self, profession, and community. Understanding these factors can improve patient safety and doctor-patient relationships.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 3, 2006