Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 28, 2007


Columbia researchers: Growth of CT scan use may lead to significant public health problem

The overuse of CT scans in the US may result in a future public health problem, with an estimated 1.5-2% of cancers potentially caused by radiation from CT scans. Columbia researchers suggest reducing CT-related radiation dose, replacing scans with non-radiation options, and decreasing total scans to prevent unnecessary irradiation.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 28, 2007

The hills and valleys of Earth's largest salt 'flat'

Researchers mapped Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni to a resolution of a few centimeters, uncovering previously hidden features like hills, ridges, and valleys. These topographic features impact satellite-based ranging instruments' accuracy, revealing a correlation between subsurface density variations and surface gravity strength

SourceWiley·JournalGeophysical Journal International·DateNov 28, 2007

Sweet fuel supply

Researchers have developed a glucose-powered fuel cell that uses sunlight to convert glucose into hydrogen, producing several hundred millivolts. This innovative device has the potential to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels by utilizing biological resources such as food waste and managed high-energy crops.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Global Energy Issues·DateNov 28, 2007

Computer savvy canines

A new study demonstrates that dogs can visually categorize complex color photographs and transfer their knowledge to new situations. The research, published online in Animal Cognition, used a computer-automated touch-screen system to eliminate potential human influence.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateNov 28, 2007

A molecular map for aging in mice

Researchers created a molecular map of aging in mice by analyzing gene expression changes in 16 different tissues. The study found that different tissues exhibit distinct patterns of aging, suggesting three separate clocks for aging, and that some pathways are shared with human aging.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 28, 2007

Use it or lose it

Research by The Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry found that maintaining physical activity in middle age leads to better basic physical abilities as we age. Physical activity is associated with fewer than 13% of people developing physical disability. Weight is not a deciding factor in this benefit.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 28, 2007

Limited biofuel feedstock supply?

Researchers report that sustainable biomass production may be hindered by soil organic matter needs, suggesting a need for alternative crops and improved agricultural practices. The study highlights the importance of considering multiple factors beyond just soil erosion when evaluating feedstock supply.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateNov 28, 2007

Drug boosts platelets in hepatitis C patients

Researchers found that eltrombopag boosted platelet counts in a majority of patients with low platelet counts and cirrhosis due to HCV infection, allowing most to continue or start conventional antiviral treatment. The study's results are an important development for people infected with the hepatitis C virus worldwide.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 28, 2007