Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for December 13, 2006


Mount Sinai and EXACT Sciences announce study results on study stool DNA testing for colon cancer

A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that stool DNA testing can detect colorectal cancer with 88% accuracy, regardless of its stage or location. This non-invasive screening test offers a patient-friendly alternative to traditional colonoscopy.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateDec 13, 2006

Yes, Virginia, some snowflakes can look the same!

Research by Jon Nelson suggests that smaller snowflakes may be less unique than previously thought, with tiny temperature changes influencing their diversity. The study of snowflakes has also shed light on their role in global climate change and ozone depletion, revealing a complex chemistry behind these winter wonders.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalCrystal Growth & Design·DateDec 13, 2006

Geologists finding a different Mars underneath

Researchers have found evidence of ancient impact basins and topographic depressions in the Martian lowlands using MARSIS instrument, confirming the subsurface's complexity. The discovery sheds light on the geologic evolution of Mars, revealing a dichotomy between the northern and southern hemispheres.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 2006

New observations on properties of water

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have discovered that sulphuric acid and water mixture droplets can be cooled and heated without forming ice. This finding has implications for cloud physics, suggesting that cirrus clouds are not completely solid ice, but contain a layer of liquid water.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateDec 13, 2006

Nursing home or hospital: State policy has big impact on elderly

Researchers found that state Medicaid reimbursement rates and bed-hold policies significantly impact nursing home residents' likelihood of hospitalization. States with higher payment rates and more permissive bed-hold policies tend to have higher hospitalization rates, while those with lower rates and stricter policies have lower rates.

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Services Research·DateDec 13, 2006

CIHR-funded research in Kenya

A randomized controlled trial conducted in Kenya demonstrates that male circumcision significantly reduces the risk of acquiring HIV, with a 53% reduction in new infections among circumcised men. The study, funded by CIHR, provides conclusive evidence supporting the use of circumcision as an important HIV prevention strategy.

Wild tigers need cat food

A new study by WCS and USGS found that wild tigers in India's Nagarahole National Park lose nearly a quarter of their population each year, but total numbers remain stable due to high reproductive rates and abundant prey. The study highlights the need for protected areas with high prey densities and anti-poaching efforts.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalEcology·DateDec 13, 2006

Effect of tobacco ads may backfire

A recent study by Oregon State University researchers suggests that tobacco company-sponsored anti-smoking advertising aimed at youths may actually increase teen smoking rates. The study found that each additional youth-targeted prevention ad viewed resulted in a 3% stronger intention among all students to smoke in the future, and that...

SourceOregon State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 13, 2006

Forsyth scientists discover early key to regeneration

Scientists at The Forsyth Institute have discovered that programmed cell death is necessary for regeneration to occur. Apoptosis plays a critical role in development and a novel role in regeneration, allowing medically therapeutic regeneration. The study uses the Xenopus tadpole as a model organism.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateDec 13, 2006