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Science News for August 15, 2008


Hope for patients with COPD

The Toward a Revolution in COPD Health (TORCH) study found that combined salmeterol and fluticasone propionate reduced the rate of decline in lung function by 39ml/year, compared to 55ml/year in the placebo group.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 15, 2008

Cancer signatures uncovered

A new study identifies three groups of cancers distinguished by early developmental signatures, shedding light on their gene expression patterns. This research provides a reference framework for interpreting smaller-scale functional studies and has implications for understanding human disease from a 'macrobiological' approach.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 15, 2008

True properties of carbon nanotubes measured

Carbon nanotubes' true mechanical properties have been measured by Northwestern University researchers using a novel nanoscale material testing system. The results match quantum mechanics predictions and reveal that irradiation can strengthen the structure by forming bonds between shells of the tube.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 15, 2008

Light receptors in eye play key role in setting biological clock, study shows

Biologists at the University of Virginia discovered a switching mechanism in the eye that regulates sleep/wake cycles in mammals. The finding demonstrates that light receptor cells play a key role in setting the brain's primary timekeeper, leading to potential new treatments for sleep disorders and visual impairments.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2008

Prediction markets strong at forecasting US presidential elections, says new management insights

A study by Yale researchers found that prediction markets are a strong tool for forecasting US presidential elections. The authors analyzed the 2004 election market and found that traders quickly assimilated new information as it unfolded over the campaign, indicating their ability to accurately predict outcomes.

'Virtual archaeologist' reconnects fragments of an ancient civilization

A team of Princeton University researchers has developed an automated system that can reconstruct wall paintings from fragments, reducing the time needed from years to months. The 'Griphos' system employs a combination of computer algorithms and mirrors traditional archaeological procedures, enabling archaeologists to use it as a tool.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateAug 15, 2008