Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive June 2008 - Page 11


Page 11 of 21

Fair trade

Researchers have found a way to effectively recycle toxic chlorinated compounds using a lanthanum chloride catalyst. The new reaction enables the exchange of chlorine atoms for hydrogen atoms, producing desired products without byproducts.

SourceWiley·DateJun 16, 2008

Overweight does not decrease sperm production

A new study by The Endocrine Society found that overweight men are not more likely to be infertile, contradicting previous research on obese women. Greater body weight was linked to lower testosterone levels in some participants, but impaired sperm production remains the primary cause of infertility in men.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 15, 2008

UQ research finds aging is satisfying

Researchers found that older adults are just as socially satisfied as younger counterparts, contrary to conventional wisdom. The study suggests that older adults' perception of their experiences brings them more satisfaction, enabling them to find uplift in everyday life.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateJun 15, 2008

Current screening test for prediabetes in children misses the diagnosis too often

A new Canadian study found that the standard screening test for high blood sugar in children with risk factors misses nearly 3 times fewer cases of prediabetes than a longer test. The glucose stress test identified more cases of both prediabetes and metabolic syndrome. Early detection is crucial, as it can prevent or delay diabetes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 15, 2008

Novel model of osteosarcoma

Researchers have developed a high-fidelity animal model of osteosarcoma by genetically modifying mice to lack the p53 and Rb tumor suppressor genes. This model closely recapitulates human osteosarcomagenesis, providing valuable insights into the disease's genetic contributions.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 14, 2008

Lizards pull a wheelie

A team of scientists found that lizards running on two legs is due to their acceleration, which creates a turning force acting on the lizard's torso, lifting it off the ground. The researchers suggest that 'pulling a wheelie' is the most likely explanation for the lizards' bipedalism.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 13, 2008

Road pollution blamed for higher allergy risk in kids

A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that traffic-related pollution increases the risk of asthma, hay fever, and eczema in children by more than 50%. Children living closer to roads are at a higher risk due to increased exposure to pollutants and aerosols.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 13, 2008

Nanoparticles aid bone growth

A new study has shown that adding nanoparticles to porous materials can lead to denser bone tissue. Researchers found that the nanoparticles increased bone ingrowth by threefold after 12 weeks compared to a biodegradable plastic scaffold alone. The study paves the way for further research into tissue engineering and bone regeneration.

SourceRice University·JournalBone·DateJun 13, 2008