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Science News Archive September 2008 - Page 4


Page 4 of 24

Growth in the global carbon budget

The new global carbon budget shows unprecedented acceleration of CO2 emissions and atmospheric accumulation, with natural sinks growing slower than emissions. Decreasing forest cover mainly due to deforestation is responsible for a significant portion of emissions, while oceans' carbon uptake has decreased by 10 million tons.

Protecting patient privacy the new fashioned way

A new computer program, Medical De-identification System (MeDS), can accurately and speedily remove patient identifiers from medical records while retaining essential data for medical research. MeDS has been successfully tested on large datasets and shows promise in resolving the complex issue of privacy vs. public good.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateSep 25, 2008

Mayo Clinic discovery may help diabetic gastric problem

Researchers have found a potential solution for diabetic gastroparesis by increasing production of a key molecule in the digestive process. The study, published in Gastroenterology, shows that a red blood cell derivative can restore normal gastric emptying and improve glucose control.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 25, 2008

Army can boost mission success by better managing

A RAND Corporation study found that U.S. Army units can gain tactical and strategic advantages by better managing environmental issues during deployments, which can influence local support for the mission and overall success. The study recommends giving more weight to environmental considerations in planning and operations.

Zeroing in on Wi-Fi 'dead zones'

Researchers at Rice University developed a method to predict Wi-Fi coverage using basic topography and street locations, promising cheaper and easier network deployment. The technique was tested on two high-profile networks and showed promising results.

New research shows why metal alloys degrade

Researchers from the University of Michigan have discovered that metal alloys can degrade due to diffusion, a process where atoms hop through the material, changing its structure. This finding has significant implications for the development of longer-lasting alloys, particularly in electronic materials like solder.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 24, 2008

The hibernating stellar magnet

Astronomers have discovered a mysterious celestial object emitting visible-light flashes before disappearing. It is likely to be a missing link in the family of neutron stars, exhibiting powerful magnetic activity.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateSep 24, 2008

Mapping the neuron-behavior link in Rett Syndrome

A study by Baylor College of Medicine researchers reveals a critical function of the MeCP2 protein in regulating neuronal behavior, particularly in relation to stress, aggression, and obesity. The findings demonstrate that MeCP2 is essential for tempering neural responses, enabling appropriate behavior in novel social situations.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateSep 24, 2008

New life found in ancient tombs

Researchers have discovered two new species of bacteria growing on the walls of Rome's ancient tombs, which may help preserve these sites. The bacteria, belonging to the Kribbella group, can produce enzymes and antibiotics with useful properties.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateSep 24, 2008