ROBBLOG:Science News & Opinion

Game Over, Man

2007-02-26T18:03:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting to use this for soooo long.

This post may be somewhat unnecessary considering that I haven't posted anything here in two and a half months, but I want to say that I am formally shutting down ROBBLOG.

I cut my blogging teeth over here and ROBBLOG will always have a place in my heart. I'll leave it up for the archive and, who knows, maybe someday I'll come back here but, for now:

Happy trails, old friend...

Recent Human Evolution

2006-12-10T21:24:00.000-05:00

This is really cool:

"Throughout most of human history, the ability to digest lactose, the principal sugar of milk, has been switched off after weaning because there is no further need for the lactase enzyme that breaks the sugar apart. But when cattle were first domesticated 9,000 years ago and people later started to consume their milk as well as their meat, natural selection would have favored anyone with a mutation that kept the lactase gene switched on."

The change may have been as recent as 3,000 years ago. Once again, throw this on the pile of data that supports evolution. (In your face creationism and Intelligent Design!)

Figure it out people, ignoring scientific facts isn't going to help Americans compete.

Today in Science

2006-12-01T09:42:00.000-05:00

HIV/AIDS

Today is World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day, AIDSinfo

Risk of progression to AIDS increases without steady anti-retroviral drug treatment. CBC

Experts look to implement new strategies to prevent HIV transmission. WP

Bill Clinton is starting a foundation to provide AIDS drugs to children. BBC

Science

The EU plans to spend 54 billion Euros on science over the next several years. BBC, ScienceNOW

Scientists need to be involved in science debates to keep them from being dominated by minority views. BBC

A single asteroid killed the dinosaurs. Reuters, NG

Drugs

The White House does not want to release documents concerning the "Plan B" contraceptive. WP

Cancer

Blocking progesterone may keep breast cancer gene, BRCA1, at bay. WP, Reuters

Health

Bush Administration abstinence-only policy for combating underage pregnancy does not work, contraception does. BBC, Reuters

Space

Steven Hawking says humans need to get out of the solar system to survive. AP, Reuters, BBC

NASA says shuttle redesign can wait until 2008. AP

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Monsoons in India have worsened with climate change. Reuters, Nature

LA auto show highlights green cars. CSM

Technology

Microsoft releases Vista OS for business. Reuters, BBC

Stem Cells

Stem cells may be used to fix back pain. BBC

Weather

Hurricane season ends without one hitting the US, thanks to el Nino. AP, Reuters, Nature, NG

Terrorism

Al-Qaeda is making noise about a cyber attack on businesses set for today. AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-11-30T09:12:00.000-05:00

HIV/AIDS

South Africa will use Friday's World AIDS Day to launch a new plan to fight HIV/AIDS and answer near universal criticism of their previous "strategy". Reuters

Male circumcision in Africa may hold promise for limiting the spread of the disease. WP

Universal AIDS test needed. Reuters

Science

Review says that scientific journal editors should scrutinize data more before accepting investigators submissions. WP, NYT

Drugs

Natural anti-inflammatory may be more potent than synthetic drugs, but without side effects. WP

Health

Arby's rules! They are taking the trans-fats out of their fries. WP

Keep drinkin' (red wine that is), you'll live longer (then you can drink more). WP, BBC

Space

NASA sets next shuttle launch for Dec. 7th. WP, Reuters

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Personal wind turbines are catching on in Britain. CSM

The world is reacting to climate change even if the politicians are not. WP

Demand for plug-in hybrid cars grows. Reuters

GM is (finally) working on a plug-in hybrid. WP

The EU is fighting over strong CO2 emission cuts. Reuters, BBC

Heat stored in the North Atlantic may exacerbate climate change. Guardian

Technology

Price wars: Plasma TV prices keep going down. WP

Miscellaneous

Face transplant recipient can smile. BBC

Ancient computer examined. BBC, NYT, Reuters, LiveScience.com, Nature, NG

Categories: Science news, Science, News

You Can Do Something to Help Save Science in America!

2006-11-17T14:33:00.000-05:00

[Crossposted at Tokatakiya]

Resolution HR6164 (you can look up the text here) passed the House of Representatives on September 26th and has now been referred to the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) committee.

HR 6164 aims to continue the Republican War on Science by crippling the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The President of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) detailed many of the insidious provisions of HR6164 in an open letter (pdf) to the HELP committee's ranking member, Senator Edward Kennedy (D-Mass).

"After careful review and modeling of future NIH budget scenarios, AASLD has concluded that the NIH Reform Act of 2006 will deal a sever and crushing blow to the future of biomedical research in this country. Damage to the research enterprise will result in the permanent loss of investigators and technical support staff from our academic centers with an inevitable negative impact on America's position as the world's leader in basic, translational and clinical research and as the creator of much-needed high paying, technology jobs in our country.

Several provisions of HR6164 will negatively impact our ability to develop the new diagnostics, treatments and, ultimately, cures:
For the first time ever, this legislation places a cap on the amount of funding Congress can appropriate to NIH by replacing the existing "such sums" language with hard limits. Had this bill been in effect from 1998 to 2003, the will of Congress to double the NIH budget would have been thwarted, and our current funding levels would never have been achieved.

The legislation creates a "Common Fund" by siphoning off money from the institutes and centers. Under provisions of the bill, 50 percent of any increase in NIH funding would go to the Common Fund; but 100 percent of any reduction would be borne by the institutes and centers - and thus by peer-reviewed research.

The budget of the Director's Office at NIH would be authorized at a level in excess of $1.0 billion (it is currently appropriated at $527 million). Again,this funding would come at the expense of the institutes and centers.

The authorization caps,when combined with the Common Fund and the Director's Office authorization level - and when controlled for biomedical research inflation - assures that NIH will not experience more than a 1 percent increase for the life of this bill, even if Congress appropriates the fully authorized amount - something it rarely does." [Emphasis mine.]

Make no mistake, crippling the NIH like this will have unimaginably damaging effects on the biomedical sciences for years, possible decades, to come.

This issue affects all Americans, every single one of us. The NIH provides the funding that fosters new treatments and cures, not to mention the many new biomedical start-ups that are built on discoveries made using NIH grant money. These start-ups create jobs. Not only is biomedical science THE growth industry of the 21st century but biomedical jobs will likely play a large part in replacing the manufacturing jobs that are being shipped overseas.

This bill is short sighted. It will reduce the quality and quantity of science performed in this country. It will reduce the number of new treatments, cures, and drugs discovered in this country. It will damage the short and long-term growth of biomedical industry in this country at a time when job growth is (and will be) sorely needed.

The good news is that this bill has not yet been passed.

Here is a list of the Senators who sit on the HELP committee and whose votes are crucial to killing this bill. If you live in a state represented by one of the Senators on the HELP committee, I urge you to use the link above to write them and request that they vote against HR6164. If you don't live in one of these states, please contact your Senator and request that they vote against HR6164 (and urge their colleagues to vote against it) if it makes it to a floor vote.

This isn't just legislation that will hurt scientists in their ivory towers, this will affect every man, woman, and child in the United States. (Very likely much of the rest of the world as well.) Please take this seriously and please take the time to write a note to your Senator to kill this bill.

It will be the most important thing you do today.

Today in Science

2006-11-13T10:55:00.000-05:00

Politics

Science issues like stem cells and climate change are going to be high priority in new Democratic Congress. CSM

Environment

Democratic Congress unlikely to allow expanded offshore drilling. NYT

Science

Humorous names for genes discovered in fruit flies do not translate well to the clinic. NYT

Animals

Panda porn: what an age we live in. Reuters

Cancer

Manipulating immune cells can help fight melanoma. BBC, Guardian

Firefighters have a higher risk of developing certain cancers. BBC

HIV/AIDS

Life expectancy with HIV has increased. NYT

Health

Doctors can use Google to help with diagnoses. BBC, CBC

Children may have hardening arteries. Reuters

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Kyoto countries are looking to extend the pact. Reuters

Storm surge barriers may be needed to protect New York City. CSM

Stem Cells

Stem cells used to treat diabetes in mice. BBC

And to restore sight in mice. WP

Miscellaneous

Accurate scientific facts are finding their way into TV shows. LAT

Artificial stomach created. BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Dolphins Found with Vestigial Legs

2006-11-05T14:29:00.000-05:00

In Japan.

Vestigial structures are parts of an animal that once had a function but are no longer used (think appendix).

They are one of the many proofs of evolution. They represent a "snapshot" of evolution in progress.

I always feel the need to say this, evolution is supported by as much data as any other concept in science.

This is one more item on that list.

Say Goodbye to Seafood

2006-11-02T17:59:00.000-05:00

A new study shows that, essentially, there won't be any fish left in 40 years.

No fish. 40 years.

Oh well, let's get back to talking about important things: Gay marriage and flag burning.

(Help.)

[WP, NYT, BBC]

Caloric Restriction in Primates

2006-10-30T23:22:00.000-05:00

The NYT has an article about research on "caloric restriction" in primates.

Caloric restriction has been shown to significantly extend lifespan in every organism in which it has been tested. Showing it works in primates means it will probably work in humans.

This is fascinating.

Unfortunately it would be a horrible way to live. Hopefully this research will uncover some lazier, undisciplined way to take advantage of this life extending mechanism.

Update: Oops. I had the wrong link, its fixed now.

Apologies

2006-10-03T23:30:00.000-04:00

I must apologize for my slacking the last two weeks. I was on vacation for a week and I've been busy with campaigning for Jim Webb. So, bear with me.

Thanks for your patience.

Today in Science

2006-09-20T09:20:00.000-04:00

Space

Panel endorses NASA plans for return to the moon. AP, Reuters, BBC, ScienceNOW

Atlantis landing postponed. AP, WP, Reuters, BBC

Cancer

Eating fatty fish may reduce kidney cancer chances. Reuters

Health

Penis transplant removed. (Yeah, you read it right.) Reuters, AP, Guardian

Sugar may help fight malaria. Reuters

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Al Gore calls for immediate freeze in greenhouse gas emissions. NYT

Technology

Patent applied for on a single disk that will play on Blu-ray and HD-DVD. Reuters

3D TV? BBC

Microsoft will start a YouTube of its own. BBC

Evolution

New species of shark discovered that walks on its fins. NYT

Terrorism

Fish are being used as sentinels against a bio-attack. WP

Miscellaneous

200 year old seeds brought back to life. BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-09-16T15:27:00.000-04:00

Terrorism

"Bin Laden Trail 'Stone Cold'". WP

Congress panel blames the EPA and New York officials for not protecting workers at Ground Zero. AP, NYT

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Another study links stronger hurricanes to global warming. NYT, Reuters, AP, BBC, ScienceNOW

NASA study says greenhouse gas emissions from humans are causing climate change, melting the Arctic. WP, NYT, Reuters, BBC, LiveScience.com

Climatologist: We have 10-years to avert climate change disaster. Reuters

Hybrid car marketability tied to high gas prices. Reuters

2006 hottest year on record. LiveScience.com

Evolution

Most recent Neanderthal fossils found. Guardian, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW, Nature, NG

Cancer

Michigan may require 6th grade girls to receive the cervical cancer vaccine. (Good for them.) AP

Nature

Rare earthquake shakes the gulf coast. AP, NG

Health

Commercially bagged, fresh spinach may be harboring pathogenic E. coli. WP, AP, Reuters

The reduction in air travel post-9/11 delayed the flu season. WP, AP, ScienceNOW, NYT

McDonald's spend tiny, tiny amount of money to obesity research so they can say they are fighting it. (Less than $67 per McDonald’s restaurant in the world.) Reuters

Technology

Bionic arm. AP, WP

Weather

El Nino is back. ScienceNOW

Space

Space shuttle Atlantis (finally) launched on Saturday, no damage seen. WP, NYT, LAT, Reuters, BBC, CSM

Earthlike worlds may not be uncommon. ScienceNOW

Dwarf planet named. Reuters

Extra-solar, low-density planet discovered – largest ever. Reuters, ScienceNOW, NG

HIV/AIDS

South Africa cuts power of AIDS minister (who doesn’t know anything about AIDS. AP, BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-09-15T09:21:00.000-04:00

Health

Commercially bagged, fresh spinach may be harboring pathogenic E. coli. WP, AP, Reuters

DDT may make a comeback to fight malaria. AP

Science

The first tree genome has been sequenced. Nature

Cancer

Vitamin D may reduce risk of pancreatic cancer. AP

Space

Dwarf planet named. Reuters

Extra-solar, low-density planet discovered – largest ever. Reuters, ScienceNOW, NG

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

2006 hottest year on record. LiveScience.com

The Bush administration to cut funds for 2 renewable energy sources. CSM

Tidal energy off of Oregon is promising. CSM

Technology

Electronic voting to get worse before it gets better. WP

MS iPod, Zune info. AP

Miscellaneous

Genetically engineered rice under scrutiny. Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-09-14T09:17:00.000-04:00

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

NASA study says greenhouse gas emissions from humans are causing climate change, melting the Arctic. WP, NYT, Reuters, BBC, LiveScience.com

Climatologist: We have 10-years to avert climate change disaster. Reuters

Hybrid car marketability tied to high gas prices. Reuters

Evolution

Most recent Neanderthal fossils found. Guardian, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW, Nature, NG

Science

Federal grant submission site still doesn’t work with Macs. WP

Animals

Smuggled orangutans to head home. Reuters

Drugs

Marijuana may improve hepatitis C therapy. WP

Cancer

Michigan may require 6th grade girls to receive the cervical cancer vaccine. (Good for them.) AP

Health

Medicare premiums set to rise next year. WP, NYT

Heart transplant recipient doing fine 28 years later. AP

Senator Clinton wants $1.9 billion to help ground zero workers with health problems. AP

Polio outbreak in India. AP

McDonald’s spend tiny, tiny amount of money to obesity research so they can say they are fighting it. (Less than $67 per McDonald’s restaurant in the world.) Reuters

Space

Spacewalk goes well for Atlantis. WP, NYT, LAT

Technology

Bionic arm. AP, WP

ALL Segways to be recalled. AP

More crazy crap from iPod. NYT

New batteries aren’t coming soon. Reuters

Weather

El Nino is back. ScienceNOW

Miscellaneous

Former EPA head may be investigated for post-9/11 conduct. AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-09-12T09:35:00.000-04:00

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Another study links stronger hurricanes to global warming. NYT, Reuters, AP, BBC, ScienceNOW

Asian and European countries say they will continue to cut emissions after the Kyoto protocols expire. AP

Warmer winters may be causing an insect boom in Alaska. AP

Climate change may be causing some glaciers to grow larger. NG

Nature

Rare earthquake shakes the gulf coast. AP, NG

Health

The reduction in air travel post-9/11 delayed the flu season. WP, AP, ScienceNOW, NYT

Life expectancy related to where a person lives. AP

Cigarette maker disputes finding that nicotine levels in cigarette have risen over the last 10 years. AP

Potential weight-loss supplement from seaweed investigated. BBC

Space

Spacewalk scheduled for today. WP

Russia and China to collaborate on plans for exploration of the moon. AP

Technology

Movies are coming to the iPod. WP

HD TiVo. Reuters

Miscellaneous

Japan puts another satellite into orbit to spy on North Korea. Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-09-11T08:53:00.000-04:00

Terrorism

"Bin Laden Trail 'Stone Cold'". WP

Congress panel blames the EPA and New York officials for not protecting workers at Ground Zero. AP, NYT

Space

Space shuttle Atlantis (finally) launched on Saturday, no damage seen. WP, NYT, LAT, Reuters, BBC, CSM

Earthlike worlds may not be uncommon. ScienceNOW

HIV/AIDS

South Africa cuts power of AIDS minister (who doesn’t know anything about AIDS. AP, BBC

Health

Researchers identify protein that "cuts" protein tangles that are hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. BBC

Bird Flu

Indonesia bird flu deaths: 48. AP

Immune response may be key to bird flu. Nature, BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-09-09T00:34:00.000-04:00

Cancer

The rate of breast cancer in the US may have stopped increasing. WP

Deaths from cancer have fallen. Reuter s, LAT

Health

FDA approves implantable artificial heart. WP, AP, NYT, Reuters, LAT

Most 9/11 first responders have lung problems. AP, NYT, CBC, Reuters

HIV/AIDS

Extreme drug-resistant tuberculosis is compounding South Africa's HIV crisis. NYT, BBC, ScienceNOW

Space

Shuttle launch delayed. AP, Reuters, BBC

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

British scientist says that the Earth's temperature will rise 10 degrees in the next 20 years. WP

"Point of no return" coming on climate change. Guardian, Guardian

Technology

Intel will but 10,500 more jobs. Bloomberg, NYT, LAT, BBC

Google to launch new feature: searchable news archive of the last 200 years. BBC

Science

Massive NIH mouse genome knock-out project announced. ScienceNOW

Brain activity seen in unresponsive brain-damaged patients. NYT, AP, BBC, Reuters, WP, LAT, Guardian, Nature

Stem Cells

Gene discovered that connects lifespan, cancer, and stem cells. NYT, ScienceNOW

Scientists who produced stem cell lines from single embryonic cells taken to task by Senators for how the work was presented. WP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-09-08T08:53:00.000-04:00

Space

Another launch attempt for the space shuttle may come today. WP, NYT, LAT, Reuters

Science

Massive NIH mouse genome knock-out project announced. ScienceNOW

Brain activity seen in unresponsive brain-damaged patients. NYT, AP, BBC, Reuters, WP, LAT, Guardian, Nature

Cancer

Scientists link approximately 200 genes to breast and colorectal cancers. AP, Nature

Health

Average life expectancy may increase to unimaginable levels. Reuters

Technology

Amazon starts selling downloadable films. NYT, LAT, Reuters, BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-09-07T09:40:00.000-04:00

HIV/AIDS

AIDS experts are criticizing South Africa's health minister (because she does not know anything about AIDS). BBC, AP, CBC

Drugs

The DEA changes rules on prescription painkillers. WP, AP

Cancer

The rate of breast cancer in the US may have stopped increasing. WP

Deaths from cancer have fallen. Reuter s, LAT

Space

Mars rover reaches crater. BBC

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

The US Army wants green energy in Iraq. CSM

Stem Cells

Gene discovered that connects lifespan, cancer, and stem cells. NYT, ScienceNOW

Scientists who produced stem cell lines from single embryonic cells taken to task by Senators for how the work was presented. WP

Miscellaneous

The FDA is looking into the safety of mercury dental fillings. AP, Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-09-06T09:46:00.000-04:00

Health

FDA approves implantable artificial heart. WP, AP, NYT, Reuters, LAT

Governor Schwarzenegger will veto a California universal health care bill. AP

Most 9/11 first responders have lung problems. AP, NYT, CBC, Reuters

Head of Medicare to resign. NYT, WP

Scientists discover protein that tells the brain you are full when you eat protein. BBC, CBC, Nature

Environment

Hermaphroditic fish found in the Potomac River, pollution to blame. WP

Animals

Iceland to sell whale meat. BBC

Drugs

Using methamphetamine while pregnant can cause reduced birth weight. BBC

HIV/AIDS

Extreme drug-resistant tuberculosis is compounding South Africa's HIV crisis. NYT, BBC, ScienceNOW

Space

Shuttle launch delayed. AP, Reuters, BBC

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

British scientist says that the Earth's temperature will rise 10 degrees in the next 20 years. WP

"Point of no return" coming on climate change. Guardian, Guardian

Technology

Intel will but 10,500 more jobs. Bloomberg, NYT, LAT, BBC

Google to launch new feature: searchable news archive of the last 200 years. BBC

Note to ESPN: Just show the damn game! LAT

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-30T08:52:00.000-04:00

Cancer

People are having difficulty finding the cervical cancer vaccine. AP

HIV/AIDS

Libya wants the death penalty for foreign medical workers accused of infecting children with HIV. AP

Space

The space shuttle Atlantis is back on the launch pad. BBC

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Japan launches initiative for greener vehicles. Reuters

Billion dollar greenhouse gas deal announced. Reuters

Accelerated melting of glaciers may threaten water supplies. Guardian

Global warming releases methane, methane accelerates global warming. We’re %$@^%@. NG, ScienceNOW

Technology

Free books to be available for download on Google. AP

Ad supported, legal, free music download site is coming. NYT, Reuters, BBC

Evolution

The Pope may embrace Intelligent design. Guardian

Bird Flu

Bird flu in Alaska? AP

Miscellaneous

Preference for male children is a disaster waiting to happen. CBC, Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

RWoS Now in Paperback

2006-08-29T16:48:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to let people know that Chris Mooney's book "The Republican War on Science" has just been updated and released in paperback:

Seeing as this year's elections are right around the corner, this book has plenty of good examples of what the majority party has done while in office. (Spoiler alert: It hasn't been good for science.)

Plus, it's cheaper than the hardcover.

Tags: Chris Mooney, Science, Politics, Books, Republicans, Democrats, Elections, 2006, Congress

Today in Science

2006-08-28T08:53:00.000-04:00

Space

Shuttle launch delayed due to Hurricane/tropical storm Ernesto. WP, AP, NYT, LAT, Reuters, BBC

Weather

Hurricane/tropical storm Ernesto may be on its way to Florida. Reuters

Science

Memory restored in mice with Alzheimer’s. BBC

Drugs

Anti-HIV drug used as cervical cancer treatment. Reuters

Cancer

Synthetic molecule shown to induce tumor cell death. BBC

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

The Bush administration proposes more fuel efficient transformers. CSM

Bird Flu

Chinese bird flu vaccine shown to be safe. AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-08-26T00:21:00.000-04:00

Stem Cells

Scientists have grown stem cell populations from a single cell removed from an embryo without destroying it. WP, NYT, BBC, CBC, Reuters, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW, NG

Space

Eight is enough: Pluto is officially no longer a planet. Reuters, BBC

Dark matter proven? WP, BBC, ScienceNOW

Geysers discovered on Mars. BBC, NG Photo

Drugs

Over the counter “Plan B” is approved. WP, Reuters

Science

Scientists take up offer to test “free energy” claim. Guardian

HIV/AIDS

Researchers find protein that depresses the immune system in HIV patients, targeting it may boost the patient’s immune function. CBC

Members of India’s Parliament are woefully ill-informed about HIV. Reuters

Evolution

More debate over the “Hobbit” people of Indonesia. NYT, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW, NG, Reuters

Prebiotic chemistry discovered in interstellar clouds. (Read this, it is really cool.) CSM

Animals

Great headline: “Psycho Killer Raccoons Terrorize Olympia”. AP

Drugs

Researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center are working on a methamphetamine vaccine. AP

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Hybrid cars may pay for themselves. Reuters

Technology

Next big horror movie: “Cellphones on a Plane”. Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-24T10:37:00.000-04:00

HUGE STORY ALERT

Stem Cells

Scientists have grown stem cell populations from single cells removed from an embryo without destroying it. WP, NYT, BBC, CBC, Reuters, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW, NG

Drugs

Over the counter "Plan B" is getting closer. WP, Reuters

HIV/AIDS

Researchers find protein that depresses the immune system in HIV patients, targeting it may boost the patient’s immune function. CBC

Members of India's Parliament are woefully ill-informed about HIV. Reuters

Space

Eight is enough: Pluto is officially no longer a planet. Reuters, BBC

Technology

Apple settles patent lawsuit for $100M. WP, AP, Reuters, BBC

Education/Evolution

This is bull$#!#: Evolution has been removed as a major qualifying for federal education grants for low-income students. NYT

Prebiotic chemistry discovered in interstellar clouds. (Read this, it is really cool.) CSM

Weather

Debby will probably become a hurricane. NYT

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-23T09:25:00.000-04:00

Health

Being just a little over weight is still bad for you. AP, NYT, WP, LAT

Science

The CDC has put genetic information of 650 viruses online. AP

Britain to test blight resistant potatoes. BBC, Guardian

Human "enhancement" conference held in Sweden. Nature

Animals

Great headline: "Psycho Killer Raccoons Terrorize Olympia". AP

Manatee seen in Cape Cod. CSM

Kangaroos on birth control. Reuters

Drugs

Researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center are working on a methamphetamine vaccine. AP

Space

NASA comes up with name for new spacecraft: Orion. BBC

Still no decision on the status of Pluto. NYT, Reuters

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Hybrid cars may pay for themselves. Reuters

Technology

Next big horror movie: "Cellphones on a Plane". Reuters

Bird Flu

Recent bird flu outbreak in Indonesia is not spreading. AP

Weather

Another tropical depression has formed in the Atlantic. Reuters

Miscellaneous

A. Q. Kahn, the Pakistani who sold nuclear secrets to Libya, Iran, and North Korea, has prostate cancer. BBC

Coke and Pepsi are still taking it on the chin in India. NYT

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-22T09:34:00.000-04:00

Animals

Ant has world’s fastest bite. NG, AP, BBC, LiveScience.com, Nature

Science

Scientists take up offer to test "free energy" claim. Guardian

Health

The Bush administration says it wants people to be able to comparison shop for healthcare. AP

Doctors look to regrow knee cartilage. AP

Genetic marker may predict risk of premature birth. BBC

Space

Dark matter proven? WP, BBC, ScienceNOW

Geysers discovered on Mars. BBC, NG Photo

Atlantis mission to re-start construction on the space station. Reuters

NASA uses Pixar technology to show data. WP

Technology

TiVo lets people skip political ads. AP

YouTube to include ads. NYT, LAT, Reuters

Evolution

More debate over the "Hobbit" people of Indonesia. NYT, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW, NG, Reuters

Miscellaneous

Birth rate in Japan rises for the first time since 2000. BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-08-19T09:29:00.000-04:00

HIV/AIDS

The International HIV/AIDS conference was held in Toronto this week.

New agent in new class of HIV drug works very well. Reuters, LAT

The rate of HIV infection in the US has not gone down in 15 years. WP

The Gates Foundation wants to see an AIDS vaccine. A P Or other means of prevention (especially for women). BBC, WP, AP, Reuters, LAT

A 4-drug combination of HIV drugs is not superior to the standard 3-drug cocktail. A P, CBC

Early tests of an HIV prevention pill are positive. AP

Teaching abstinence in Africa is not enough. WP

Experts say HIV testing needs to be greatly increased to help fight the spread of AIDS. BBC

Scientist discusses progress toward and HIV vaccine or cure. CBC

China has a shortage of AIDS drugs. Reuters

Boom in heroin from Afghanistan is increasing the spread of HIV. Nature

HIV prevention looks to circumcision. WP

The world is falling short in distributing HIV drugs. NYT

UN official: Bush policy of promoting abstinence is hurting the overall anti-AIDS effort. BBC

Researchers focus on HIV positive "elite controllers" who keep the virus at undetectable levels without treatment. WP, Reuters

WHO: Only 1/4 of HIV infected patients have access to anti-retroviral drugs and it is especially bad for children. AP, NYT, Reuters, UPI

For extensive coverage of this week's International AIDS Conference, see Clinical Care Options.

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

3 major car companies have a $1 billion dollar collaboration to make the next-generation hybrid engine. (And then put it %##$^$ing SUVs.) Reuters

Natural disasters will increase in a warming world. BBC, Guardian

Scientists want greenhouse gases to be trapped under the ocean floor. Reuters

Study finds a direct link between global warming and hurricane intensity. Reuters, LiveScience.com

Irish company wants scientists to validate its "free energy" technology. Reuters

Environment

UN to lead effort to clean up Mediterranean oil spill. BBC, NYT, BBC

The ozone layer is slowly repairing itself. Reuters

Water shortages will be worldwide in the future. BBC, Reuters

Science

Sperm from dead, frozen mice works OK. Reuters, BBC, Guardian, Nature

Unique human brain genes discovered. BBC, AP, Reuters, Guardian, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW

Brain cells may have stem cell-like properties. UPI, LiveScience.com

Cancer

Scientists say they are near to understanding tumor metastasis. NYT

Breast cancer treatments are linked to increased risk of heart disease. NYT, BBC, Guardian

Health

Compound found in some hot dogs may cause mutations. LiveScience.com

Problems paying for health care are extending to middle and upper class families. AP

Watching TV may act as a natural painkiller for children. (TV, is there anything it can't do?) BBC

Federal judge rules that tobacco companies have lied for years about the health risk associated with their products, orders a change. WP, NYT, BBC

Space

NASA has lost the original moon landing tape. BBC, Reuters, Guardian, AP, WP (ROBBLOG Guest Commentary)

Number of planets in our solar system may be increased to 12. (Now we will have to come up with new pneumonic devices, thanks scientists.) AP, CBC, WP, NYT, LAT, BBC

Space shuttle Atlantis to launch on August 27th. Reuter s, LAT, BBC

Technology

Dell to recall 4.1 million laptop batteries due to fire risk. WP, AP, NYT, Reuters, Reuters

Pennsylvania is being sued over paperless electronic voting machines. AP

Stem Cells

In light of Federal policies, stem cell research focus shifts from cell therapies to drug therapies. NYT

Singapore is emerging as a world leader in stem cell research. NYT

Bird Flu

New bird flu drug? DPA

Researchers find potential new target for fighting bird flu. AP, Reuters, Nature

2 more bird flu cases found in Indonesia (45th death reported). NYT

Miscellaneous

The Gates Foundation has to hustle to give away Warren Buffet's money. NYT

Medical advisors suggest performing medical tests on prisoners. NYT

Federal judge: Warrantless wire-tapping is unconstitutional, must stop immediately. WP, AP, BBC

China's one child policy is causing men to well outnumber women setting up a problem for the future. Reuters

Report: Dike on Florida's Lake Okeechobee may fail during a hurricane. NG

The President of Iran has started a blog. Al Jazeera (Apparently to fill the void of all the blogs his government is censoring. A P

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-18T09:00:00.000-04:00

Health

Federal judge rules that tobacco companies have lied for years about the health risk associated with their products, orders a change. WP, NYT, BBC

Obesity is rapidly increasing in China. BBC, Reuters

Environment

UN to give $64 million dollars to help clean up the Lebanese oil spill. NYT, BBC

The ozone layer is slowly repairing itself. Reuters

Space

3 members of a NASA advisory panel quit over cuts to the research science budget. AP

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Irish company wants scientists to validate its "free energy" technology. Reuters

Technology

The FBI again has a major setback in trying to upgrade its computer system. WP

Apple says there is no forced labor used at one of its Chinese iPod factories. AP, NYT, BBC

Boeing to end in-flight internet service. NYT, Reuters, BBC

Bird Flu

2 more bird flu cases found in Indonesia (45th death reported). NYT

Miscellaneous

Federal judge: Warrantless wire-tapping is unconstitutional, must stop immediately. WP, AP, BBC

Rural Indian village starts its own website. Reuters

China's one child policy is causing men to well outnumber women setting up a problem for the future. Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

International AIDS Conference 2006: Official Press Release - Day 5

2006-08-17T13:15:00.000-04:00

GLOBAL EXPERTS WARN OF THE PRICE OF INACTION,
OUTLINE NEXT STEPS IN THE RESPONSE TO HIV/AIDS

AIDS 2006 Announcements of Late-breaking Research
Hold Promise for Prevention, Care and Treatment

Toronto [17 August 2006] Drawing on their on-the-ground experiences and
observations in communities ravaged by HIV/AIDS, international experts today made a dramatic call for world leaders to act decisively to prevent emerging epidemics and rapidly expand access to life-saving care and treatment for millions left behind.

"We have the tools and the knowledge to save millions of lives, and scientific
advances announced this week offer even more hope for the future" said Conference Co-Chair Dr. Helene Gayle, President of the International AIDS Society and President and CEO of CARE USA. "To squander this opportunity by failing to act - or failing to set measurable targets when we do - would be a travesty."

A highlight in today's programme are the late breaker abstract sessions, which will feature some of the most exciting and timely new research developments in the field.

Commenting on the late breaker sessions, Conference Co-Chair Dr. Mark Wainberg, Toronto Local Host Board Chair and Director of the McGill University AIDS Centre, said: "On the treatment front, the scientific developments announced today offer real hope for people living with HIV who have limited treatment options, and also add significantly to our knowledge of how best to scale up programmes in resource-limited settings. Other data in the area of prevention will help guide efforts to reduce the estimated 4 million infections that occur each year."

PLENARY SPEAKERS URGE ACTION NOW
Citing chilling examples of past inaction on HIV/AIDS by world leaders, the speakers in Thursday's plenary session, "Time to Deliver: The Price of Inaction," urged political, civil society and religious leaders to deliver a sustained, scaled-up response.

Mark Heywood (South Africa) of the AIDS Law Project at the University of
Witwatersrand drew parallels between the emerging epidemic in China and the early years of the epidemic in South Africa, urging that leaders not squander the opportunity to respond swiftly and decisively in China. He urged greater pressure on developed countries to increase funding, a concrete plan to ensure universal access by 2010, endorsement of the African Unions HIV prevention and treatment targets, and the development of national and global targets by the end of 2006 as committed to in the 2006 UN Political Declaration.

Alexandra (Sasha) Volgina (Russian Federation), of SVECHA (CANDLE) highlighted the power of advocacy and protest to drive policy change, specifically in the areas of securing access to appropriate prevention and treatment services for injecting drug users (IDUs) and people living with HIV/AIDS. She gave voice to the importance of individual and community action in opposing repressive policies, calling the price of inaction death.

Musimbi Kanyoro (Kenya) of the World YWCA spoke to the importance of transforming religion, politics, and civil society in order to mount a truly effective response to the AIDS pandemic and called for the defining of societal values based on the reality in which we live.

Addressing a theme that has resonated throughout AIDS 2006, Kerrel McKay (Jamaica) of the Portland AIDS Committee urged all involved in the HIV/AIDS response to recognize the power of youth leadership and to involve them in building programmes and initiatives. AIDS 2006 included over 1,000 youth delegates, more than twice the number at AIDS 2004 in Bangkok.

LATE-BREAKING RESEARCH DOCUMENTS IMPACT OF SCALE UP, POINTS TO FUTURE DIRECTIONS
AIDS 2006's robust scientific programme concluded with the presentation of 50 late-breaking abstracts across the five conference tracks. Among the many topics covered in the late breakers were the successes and challenges in treatment scale up, the potential benefit of new entry inhibitors and prevention options, promising directions in vaccine research and the need to remain vigilant in maintaining proven prevention strategies. All conference abstracts, including the late-breakers, are available through the online Programme-at-a-Glance at www.aids2006.org.

XVI INTERNATIONAL AIDS CONFERENCE
The XVI International AIDS Conference, organized by the International AIDS Society (IAS) and the AIDS 2006 Toronto Local Host, is the biennial gathering of the global AIDS community. The conference will feature the presentation of more than 4,500 abstracts and an array of community and cultural activities. Over 24,000 participants from more than 170 countries are in attendance.

IAS, the world's leading independent association of HIV/AIDS professionals with 10,000-plus members from 153 countries, convenes the world's largest meetings on HIV/AIDS--the International AIDS Conference and the IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention. The Local Host has been responsible for preparing Toronto and Canada as host city and country, as well as for a number of programme activities. The conference co-organizers are UNAIDS, Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS, International Council of AIDS Service Organizations, International Community of Women Living with HIV/AIDS and the Canadian AIDS Society.

Additional Resources
For additional information, including programme information, abstracts, rapporteur and scientific summaries, and links to webcasts, podcasts, transcripts and presentations from key conference sessions, please visit www.aids2006.org.

Categories: Science news, Science, News, HIV/AIDS, Health

Today in Science

2006-08-17T08:43:00.000-04:00

Science

Unique human brain genes discovered. BBC, AP, Reuters, Guardian, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW

Brain cells may have stem cell-like properties. UPI, LiveScience.com

Environment

UN to lead effort to clean up Mediterranean oil spill. BBC

HIV/AIDS

Researchers focus on HIV positive "elite controllers" who keep the virus at undetectable levels without treatment. WP, Reuters

WHO: Only 1/4 of HIV infected patients have access to anti-retroviral drugs and it is especially bad for children. AP, NYT, Reuters, UPI

For extensive coverage of this week's International AIDS Conference, see here.

Health

Problems paying for health care are extending to middle and upper class families. AP

Watching TV may act as a natural painkiller for children. (TV, is there anything it can’t do?) BBC

Space

Space shuttle Atlantis to launch on August 27th. Reuter s, LAT, BBC

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Japan to increase use of biodiesel. Reuters

Technology

Sony may have a laptop battery problem similar to Dell's. Reuters, BBC

Stem Cells

Singapore is emerging as a world leader in stem cell research. NYT

Disgraced South Korean stem cell scientist returns to his animal cloning work, will not continue human stem cell work. Reuters

Bird Flu

Researchers find potential new target for fighting bird flu. AP, Reuters, Nature

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-16T08:37:00.000-04:00

Space

Number of planets in our solar system may be increased to 12. (Now we will have to come up with new mnemonic devices. Thanks scientists.) AP, CBC, WP, NYT, LAT, BBC

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Study finds a direct link between global warming and hurricane intensity. Reuters, LiveScience.com

Environment

Water shortages will be worldwide in the future. BBC, Reuters

Genetically engineered grass has been found growing wild. NYT

China to begin serious enforcement of its environmental laws. Reuters

Animals

Fossil of mean-looking whale ancestor discovered. BBC, Nature

Drugs

Medicare drug benefit cost to remain the same next year. AP

HIV/AIDS

Boom in heroin from Afghanistan is increasing the spread of HIV. Nature

HIV prevention looks to circumcision. WP

The world is falling short in distributing HIV drugs. NYT

UN official: Bush policy of promoting abstinence is hurting the overall anti-AIDS effort. BBC

Health

New York Mayor Bloomberg donates $125 million to worldwide anti-smoking campaign. AP, Reuters

Skin test for Alzheimer’s disease may be developed. BBC

More people in the world are overweight than are hungry. (Is this good or bad? Seriously, I don’t know.) BBC

AIDS vaccine is needed. Reuters

Technology

Pennsylvania is being sued over paperless electronic voting machines. AP

CBS to offer TV shows online. LAT, Reuters

Education

More students are taking the ACT over the SAT. WP, NYT

Miscellaneous

Report: Dike on Florida’s Lake Okeechobee may fail during a hurricane. NG

Categories: Science news, Science, News

V: One Small Misstep?

2006-08-15T12:07:00.000-04:00

Guest blogger V is back with his commentary on the recent revelation that NASA has lost the tapes of the original moon landing:

So an American news agency, CNN, finally reports on August 14th that the original (high quality) tapes of the first moon landing have been misplaced, and possibly lost, by NASA. It made me sad when I first read about this on August 5th, in a report by the Sydney Morning Herald. It makes me more upset now when I read the spin on this by NASA. Here is one quote from the CNN article: "I wouldn't say we're worried -- we've got all the data. Everything on the tapes we have in one form or another." However, it is not clear that the same quality of data has been archived; indeed reading between the lines of both articles, it appears that only the TV broadcast tapes have been preserved and that there is no systematic copy or backup of all the original data. Also from the CNN article: Hautaloma said it is possible the tapes will be unplayable even if they are found, because they have degraded significantly over the years -- a problem common to magnetic tape and other types of recordable media.

First of all, I wasn’t even aware that the television broadcast of the first moon landing was a significantly degraded version of what the tracking centers received from Apollo 11. Apparently, due to the discrepancy between NASA’s equipment and the TV technology of the day, the original transmission had to be displayed on screens and re-shot by TV cameras for transmission. The original images were reportedly of a very good quality and much sharper than the blurry ones seen by the world. Those facts, in and of themselves, are fascinating to me. What is truly mystifying is the apparent lack of any concerted effort to preserve the integrity of the original tapes or to transfer the original high quality data to some other contemporary/enduring medium or form.

I have thought about this story for the past few days, in an effort to understand why it is so upsetting to me. I didn’t see the broadcast live and was too young in 1969 to have appreciated it anyways. But growing up abroad, if you asked me to pick one thing that represented America to me---one image---one event---it would be the moment man walked on the moon. Those images still give me goose bumps. They still, and will always, remain some of the most inspirational images I have ever seen. It may just be me, but I don’t quite think so. I think that for millions of my generation (and the preceding ones) the moon landing redefined frontiers by blowing through mental limits on human achievement. For millions of foreigners like me (and, I believe, for millions of Americans too) it encapsulated in a single swift moment, more than any other American event, the idea that America was the land of infinite possibilities and of limitless potential.

The loss of the original tapes and data is tragic, from a scientific perspective as well as a historical one. Also, how decadent is it that we have generated more initiative to preserve tapes of the first Super Bowl (1967) than we have to preserve the original data of the first human footsteps on the moon? At the very least NASA could have turned the darned tapes over to Steve Sabol---you know he’d have done a good job with them. And who better than "The Voice of God" for that voiceover...I can almost hear John Facenda now, "As Armstrong stepped onto the frozen tundra of the Sea of Tranquility..."

Catagories: Moon, NASA, Space, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-15T09:26:00.000-04:00

Technology

Dell to recall 4.1 million laptop batteries due to fire risk. WP, AP, NYT, Reuters, Reuters

Google to add local coupons. WP, AP, NYT

HIV/AIDS

HIV focus to shift from prevention to treatment. Reuters

Teaching abstinence in Africa is not enough. WP

Experts say HIV testing needs to be greatly increased to help fight the spread of AIDS. BBC

Scientist discusses progress toward and HIV vaccine or cure. CBC

China has a shortage of AIDS drugs. Reuters

Science

Sperm from dead, frozen mice works OK. Reuters, BBC, Guardian, Nature

Cancer

Scientists say they are near to understanding tumor metastasis. NYT

Breast cancer treatments are linked to increased risk of heart disease. NYT, BBC, Guardian

Health

Compound found in some hot dogs may cause mutations. LiveScience.com

Space

NASA has lost the original moon landing tape. BBC, Reuters, Guardian, AP, WP

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Natural disasters will increase in a warming world. BBC, Guardian

Scientists want greenhouse gases to be trapped under the ocean floor. Reuters

Bird Flu

14th person in China dies of bird flu. AP

Harmless form of bird flu may be in the US. AP

Miscellaneous

"Ground zero" rescue workers will receive increased benefits. AP

Second laptop with Florida DOT information stolen. WP

The birth rate in Germany (the lowest in Europe) has declined to a new low. BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-14T09:00:00.000-04:00

HIV/AIDS

International HIV/AIDS conference to be held in Toronto this week. BBC, DPA Complete with demonstrators (as usual). UPI

New agent in new class of HIV drug works very well. Reuters, LAT

The rate of HIV infection in the US has not gone down in 15 years. WP

The Gates Foundation wants to see an AIDS vaccine. A P Or other means of prevention (especially for women). BBC, WP, AP, Reuters, LAT

A 4-drug combination of HIV drugs is not superior to the standard 3-drug cocktail. A P, CBC

Early tests of an HIV prevention pill are positive. AP

Nature

Philippino volcano may be ready to erupt. Reuters, A P

Space

Pluto may be downgraded from planet. Reuter s, BBC, A P, Guardian

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

3 major car companies have a $1 billion dollar collaboration to make the next-generation hybrid engine (and then put it in %##$^$ing SUVs.) Reuters

MIT program looks to make super-fuel efficient cars. CSM

Technology

Wristwatch GPS. NYT

New segways. A P, NYT, Reuters

Stem Cells

In light of Federal policies, stem cell research focus shifts from cell therapies to drug therapies. NYT

Bird Flu

New bird flu drug? DPA

India declares itself free of bird flu. DPA

Miscellaneous

The Gates Foundation has to hustle to give away Warren Buffet's money. NYT

Medical advisors suggest performing medical tests on prisoners. NYT

The President of Iran has started a blog. Al Jazeera (Apparently to fill the void of all the blogs his government is censoring. A P)

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-08-12T00:05:00.000-04:00

Terrorism

Liquid explosives are hard to screen for. NYT

And they are easy to get and use. NYT, WP

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Greenland's glaciers are melting 3 times faster than they were just 2 years ago. BBC, ScienceNOW, NG

Science

Emory researchers start new gene mapping project. (People I know, how exciting.) AP, Nature

Environment

Years of Castro have not damaged the Cuban environment. NG

Drugs

FDA movement on "Plan B" to come soon. A P, NYT, Reuters

Technology

Sprint to develop $2.5 billion dollar long range wireless (WiMax) internet network. WP, NYT

The Federal government is going to auction off some $20 billion worth of bandwidth. LAT

The PC turns 25. BBC, LiveScience.com

Evolution

The US trails other countries in understanding of biology, especially acceptance of evolution. LiveScience.com, NG

Stem Cells

This article illustrates the ridiculous effects the Bush administration stem cell policy has on real world labs. LAT

Iranian scientists say they cloned a sheep and have more stem cell experiments planned. (That's right; Iran is more free to conduct stem cell research than the US.) A P

HIV/AIDS

AIDS could 11 million people in India by 2026. Reuter s

Researchers are testing HIV drugs in uninfected people to see if they can prevent HIV transmission. Reuters

The Gates Foundation donates $500 million for AIDS/TB care in poor countries. A P

Contagious cancer found in dogs. WP, LiveScience.com, ScienceNOW, Nature

Animals

Baby pandas everywhere! Reuters, AP

Legal hunting of mountain lions does not reduce attacks. Reuters

Elephants may feel compassion. Al Jazeera

China to allow hunting of endangered species by tourists. Reuters, BBC

Space

New data show that the "Universe may be bigger and older" than previously thought. LAT

Life on the surface of Mars may be impossible. NG

Bird Flu

Possible 55th Indonesian bird flu case found. DPA

Weather

Tropical storm Chris downgraded to a tropical depression. AP

NOAA hurricane forecast revised: fewer storms! A P, WP, NG

4.5 million people in India are homeless due to flooding. Reuters

Cancer

Individualized gene profiles of lung tumors will help treatment. A P, BBC, Reuters

Environment

Mediterranean oil spill caused by Israeli bombing is bad and getting worse. Al Jazeera, BBC

Health

Pop will make you fat. A P

Ebola-like disease seen in Turkey. A P

Mutation linked to development of Parkinson's disease. CBC, UPI

Antibiotic use in US and Europe may be causing more drug-resistant bacteria in livestock. NG

Pre-natal ultrasound tests can influence brain development in mice. A P, Reuters, Nature, Guardian

More infants are obese. INFANTS! Do fetuses have to be a bit pudgy before we put the fork down, America? CBC, Nature

Alzheimer's: Scientists discover molecular pathway that normally cleans up amyloid plaques in the brain. AP

Miscellaneous

Parts of India are banning Coke and Pepsi from schools after finding high levels of pesticides in the drinks. Reuters

Coca-cola says its products are safe in India. A P But more parts of India are banning Coke and Pepsi. Reuters

List of 50 most dangerous US cities released. LiveScience.com

Possible fossil fuel beds off the coast of Cuba may end the island's energy problems and, possibly, the US embargo. UPI

Cuba may crack down on satellite dishes to keep American media out while Castro is out of site. Reuter s, A P

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-11T09:18:00.000-04:00

Today in Science

2006-08-10T07:40:00.000-04:00

Cancer

Individualized gene profiles of lung tumors will help treatment. A P, BBC, Reuters

Health

More infants are obese. INFANTS! Do fetuses have to be a bit pudgy before we put the fork down, America? CBC, Nature

Science

Gene that helps rice survive longer underwater discovered. Nature

HIV/AIDS

The Gates Foundation donates $500 million for AIDS/TB care in poor countries. A P

Stem Cells

Iranian scientists say they cloned a sheep and have more stem cell experiments planned. (That's right; Iran is more free to conduct stem cell research than the US.) A P

Miscellaneous

Cuba may crack down on satellite dishes to keep American media out while Castro is out of site. Reuter s, A P

Federal laptop with personal information of 133,000 Floridians has been stolen. WP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-09T09:14:00.000-04:00

Health

Pop will make you fat. A P

Mysterious disease to be investigated by the CDC. A P

Ebola-like disease seen in Turkey. A P

Mutation linked to development of Parkinson's disease. CBC, UPI

Environment

Mediterranean oil spill caused by Israeli bombing is bad and getting worse. Al Jazeera, BBC

Alaskan oil pipeline spills are common. CSM

Animals

Legal hunting of mountain lions does not reduce attacks. Reuters

Elephants may feel compassion. Al Jazeera

China to allow hunting of endangered species by tourists. Reuters, BBC

Drugs

FDA movement on "Plan B" to come soon. A P, NYT, Reuters

HIV/AIDS

AIDS could 11 million people in India by 2026. Reuter s

Researchers are testing HIV drugs in uninfected people to see if they can prevent HIV transmission. Reuters

Technology

Sprint to develop $2.5 billion dollar long range wireless (WiMax) internet network. WP, NYT

The Federal government is going to auction off some $20 billion worth of bandwidth. LAT

Stem Cells

This article illustrates the ridiculous effects the Bush administration stem cell policy has on real world labs. LAT

Weather

NOAA hurricane forecast revised: fewer storms! A P, WP, NG

4.5 million people in India are homeless due to flooding. Reuters

Miscellaneous

Coca-cola says its products are safe in India. A P But more parts of India are banning Coke and Pepsi. Reuters

Conjoined twins separated in Utah. A P, BBC, Reuters

Possible fossil fuel beds off the coast of Cuba may end the island's energy problems and, possibly, the US embargo. UPI

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-08T08:44:00.000-04:00

Animals

Baby pandas everywhere! Reuters, AP

Tiny bird makes 40,000 mile migration every year. BBC, LiveScience.com

Science

Scientists reconstruct an ancient gene. BBC

Health

Antibiotic use in US and Europe may be causing more drug-resistant bacteria in livestock. NG

Pre-natal ultrasound tests can influence brain development in mice. A P, Reuters, Nature, Guardian

Space

Life on the surface of Mars may be impossible. NG

Climate Change/Global Warming/Alternative Energy

Under the sea: scientists want to store CO2 under the sea bed to fight global warming. BBC

Inuits (Eskimos) are buying air conditioners. Reuters

Technology

New Apple computers now all use Intel chips. LAT, A P, Reuter s

A robot has been designed to rescue injured soldiers on the battlefield. LiveScience.com

Education

First New Orleans' schools re-open. NYT, A P, WP

Stem Cells

Thanks to Bush administration policy, American companies are moving stem cell research overseas. UPI

Bird Flu

43rd and 44th Indonesian bird flu deaths recorded. A P

Weather

Deadly flooding seen in India. Reuters, A P

Hot weather drives down crime rates. WP

Miscellaneous

2/3 of Lebanese hospitals may close due to fuel shortages caused by the war with Israel. BBC

Electrical currents allow scientists to guide people's movements. Nature

Government voucher program to include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A P

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-07T08:59:00.000-04:00

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Area off of the Oregon coast is so low in oxygen that aquatic animals can not survive there. NYT, AP, NG

Environment

Years of Castro have not damaged the Cuban environment. NG

HIV/AIDS

Kenya identifies inexpensive ways to reduce the spread of AIDS. NYT

Health

Bush administration to set standards for federally funded health care providers. WP

The country's Governors are working to deal with Medicaid. AP

Parts of India are banning Coke and Pepsi from schools after finding high levels of pesticides in the drinks. Reuters

Years of taking birth control does not reduce fertility. DPA

Honey may be more effective than antibiotics at treating certain wounds. DPA

Space

New data show that the "Universe may be bigger and older" than previously thought. LAT

Technology

Google to introduce video ads from Viacom. NYT, AP, Reuter s

New Google feature will warn users of websites with spyware, etc. BBC

Bird Flu

Possible 55th Indonesian bird flu case found. DPA

Weather

Tropical storm Chris downgraded to a tropical depression. AP

Miscellaneous

List of 50 most dangerous US cities released. LiveScience.com

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-08-05T07:34:00.000-04:00

Miscellaneous

Cuban President Fidel Castro temporarily relinquishes power to undergo surgery for intestinal bleeding. Miami Herald, BBC, Reuters, WP, AP, AP, LAT, TOKOTAKIYA

Taiwan looks to secure oil from Chad. DPA

Iran and Japan put finishing touches on $2 billion dollar oil deal. DPA

Researchers say that over 25% of the world’s population is infected with a cat parasite that can cause personality changes. UPI, LiveScience.com

NGO: Coke and Pepsi in India contain pesticides. BBC, Reuters

HIV/AIDS

HIV reservoirs in the gut survive anti-retroviral drugs. BBC, CBC, Reuters

New drug for resistant HIV approved. UPI

Weather

Tropical storm Chris is now a tropical depression. (Don’t count it out yet.) Reuters, AP, AP

It was frickin’ hot! Reuters, WP, WP

112 dead in France from record heat. Reuters, AP, AP

Here is a news flash: it is worse to be fat when it is hot. AP, AP

Number of hurricanes forecast for this year is reduced. NG, Reuters, AP

Environment

Israeli bombing has caused oil spills in Lebanon. BBC, NG, AP

Evolution

Pro-evolution politicians take over Kansas State Board of Education. NYT, WP, AP, AP

Health

Scientists have found a way to reverse muscular dystrophy in mice. BBC

Researchers have developed a vaccine that blocks weight gain in rats. BBC, Reuters, ScienceNOW, LAT

9/11 first responders show lung damage. BBC, LAT, WP (scroll down)

Sen. John Kerry calls for healthcare coverage for all Americans by 2012. AP, AP

Drinking is good for you. (In moderation people!) LAT

Cancer

Doctors say the new cervical cancer vaccine should be given to men and women. Reuter s

Space

The Atlantis space shuttle is moving to the launch pad. AP

Science

Invisibility may be possible. Reuter s

Drugs

The FDA may allow over the counter sales of “Plan B” to women over 18. WP, Reuters, NYT, AP, AP

Bird Flu

Experiments show that a bird flu pandemic may be less likely than previously thought. LAT, ScienceNOW, AP

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Increased temperature = increased air conditioner use = increased CO2 = increased temperature = we’re screwed. LiveScience.com

Technology

AOL is cutting 1/4 of it’s workforce (5,000 jobs). WP, AP, AP, NYT

Politics

Fate of FDA head nominee is tied to “Plan B” status. AP, NYT, Reuters, UPI

Bill in the Senate would create searchable database of all government spending. WP

People do not listen to information that is counter to their beliefs. WP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Shameless Cross-Promotion

2006-08-04T14:30:00.000-04:00

If you haven't read it yet, check out parts 1 , 2, 3, and 4 of V's guest commentary on embryonic stem cells over on TOKATAKIYA. As well as my nit-picky commentary of one sentence.

Tags: Stem Cells, Science, Politics, IVF, Bush, Tony Snow, Snowflake babies

Today in Science

2006-08-04T09:40:00.000-04:00

Weather

Tropical storm Chris is now a tropical depression. (Don't count it out yet.) Reuters, AP, AP

Monsoon kills 42 in India. Reuters, AP, AP

112 dead in France from record heat. Reuters, AP, AP

Number of hurricanes forecast for this year is reduced. NG, Reuters, AP

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Some say the recent hotness may be due to global warming. WP (Even Pat Robertson thinks so. Reuters)

Environment

The EPA recommends new pesticide restrictions. NYT

Drugs

FDA decision on "Plan B" contraceptive was made without benefit of the science. Reuters

HIV/AIDS

AIDS drugs are still working 10 years after their introduction. Reuters

Researchers are working on a patch vaccine against HIV. DPA

Africa faces loss of health care workers to AIDS and overseas emigration. BBC

Health

Doctors do not prescribe antibiotics correctly. UPI

Study: Blood clots are elastic and strong. AP, CBC, AP, AP

Here is a news flash: it is worse to be fat when it is hot. AP, AP

Space

2 star/planets(?) discovered. BBC, NYT

Technology

AOL is cutting 1/4 of it's workforce (5,000 jobs). WP, AP, AP, NYT

Apple has a deal to put iPod connectors in Ford, GM, and Mazda vehicles. Reuters, AP, AP

Bird Flu

Indonesian family of 7 suspected of having bird flu have tested negative for the virus. BBC

Miscellaneous

Radiation therapy can people to incorrectly trip airport security alarms. BBC

Here's another story about the cat brain parasite that affects people's personalities. LiveScience.com

Categories: Science news, Science, News

July in Science

2006-08-03T13:17:00.000-04:00

Stem Cells

The Senate passes 3 stem cell bills. WP, Al Jazeera, Reuters, AP, AP, BBC, ScienceNOW

President Bush vetoes stem cell bill. Reuters, NYT, WP, BBC, Guardian, ScienceNOW, AP, ROBBLOG

House vote to override Bush’s veto falls short. AP, AP

Governor Schwarzenegger authorizes $150 million loan to California’s stem cell institute to circumvent anti-stem cell lawsuits. Reuters, AP, AP

Researchers have grown sperm from mouse embryonic stem cells. BBC

Stem cells from human fat have been turned into muscle cells in the lab. Reuters

Disgraced South Korean stem cell scientist says he tried to clone mammoths. Reuters

Singapore develops the first stem cell lines suitable for use in human beings. Nature (In the “I told you so” department, see here.) [Actually, it wasn’t me but you get the point.]

HIV/AIDS

Once daily HIV pill containing 3 drugs approved. WP, CBC, Reuters, Al Jazeera, AP, AP, NYT, BBC, LAT

The Gates Foundation donates $287 million to development of an AIDS vaccine. NYT, BBC, AL Jazeera, AP, AP, LAT, Guardian

Space

The space shuttle finally launched… CBC, BBC, WP, NYT, LAT, Reuters, CSM, CNN, AP

…and returned safely to Earth. Al Jazeera, CBC, BBC, WP, AP,AP, NYT, Reuters, CSM, Nature, NG, LAT

Space shuttle Atlantis to launch in late August. Reuters

Saturn’s moon Titan may have lakes filled with liquid hydrocarbons. BBC, ScienceNOW, AP, AP

Methane rain falls on Titan. Reuters, Nature

Animals

Tiger habitat has been reduced by 40% in the last decade. Reuters, BBC, NG, AP, Guardian

Western Africa’s Black Rhino’s may be extinct. Reuters, BBC, Guardian, NG

People are fighting over the remains of Bruno the German bear. Nature

Not to be outdone by the Germans, Italy may kill Bruno’s mother. Der Spiegel

Evolution

Darwin’s finches have evolved with scientists watching. LiveScience.com, Nature, AP, AP

Health

Holy crap! Many Americans are too fat to be X-rayed. Reuters

Bird Flu

Mass produced bird flu vaccine for humans may be ready by next year. Reuters, CBC, WP, AP, AP, NYT, BBC, DPA, Guardian

Technology

New sensor allows paralyzed man to move computer cursor with his mind. Reuters, NYT, ScienceNOW, NG, BBC, CBC, LAT

Microsoft’s version of the iPod, called Zune (Better than Origami), to be in stores by the Holidays. NYT, Reuters, WP, BBC

Report: Much of the US is not prepared to use electronic voting machines. WP

Pakistan is developing more plutonium. Nature, AP, WP, AP

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Toyota to sell plug-in hybrids. CSM

Nobel laureate’s paper to suggest introducing sulfur into the stratosphere to fight climate change. Nature

New study shows that biofuels made from corn and soybeans will not solve our energy crisis. Nature, AP, AP

Use of corn as a fuel source may significantly impact corn as a food source. CSM

Science

Another poor funding year anticipated for NIH in 2007. ScienceNOW

Drugs

Methamphetamine remains the biggest drug problem in the US. AP, AP

Nature

An earthquake in Indonesian spawned a tsunami that claimed at least 547 lives. AP, AP

New rift in Africa/Arabia tectonic plates may eventually form a new ocean. BBC, LiveScience.com, NG

Miscellaneous

North Korean missile may have been aimed at waters near Hawaii. Der Spiegel

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-03T09:09:00.000-04:00

HIV/AIDS

New drug for resistant HIV approved. UPI

Weather

Tropical storm Chris is weakening. (It has not yet reached the Gulf, however.) Reuters

Its frickin' hot! Reuters, WP, WP

African thunderstorms may tell us something about Atlantic hurricanes. NG

Bird Flu

7 more people in Indonesia may have bird flu. BBC, UPI

Cancer

Eating processed meat increases the risk of stomach cancer. CBC

Health

Researchers say that over 25% of the world's population is infected with a cat parasite that can cause personality changes. UPI

Protein integral in anaphylactic shock found in mice. Nature

Scientists have developed a test to determine a person's risk of developing dementia. BBC, CBC, Reuters

Breast-feeding has long lasting anti-anxiety effects. Reuters

Test can identify heart attack patients that will not be helped by CPR. AP, CBC, Reuters, UPI

Space

Japan wants to build a base on the moon by 2030. Nature

Distant star survives explosion of other, bigger star. Nature, BBC, Science

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Increased oceanic acidity (from increased CO2 levels) is threatening aquatic species. LAT

Technology

AOL is moving to mostly free services. WP, NYT, LAT

Miscellaneous

NGO: Coke and Pepsi in India contain pesticides. BBC, Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-02T08:50:00.000-04:00

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Increased temperature = increased air conditioner use = increased CO2 = increased temperature = we're screwed. LiveScience.com

Large cities around the world are banding together to fight climate change. Al Jazeera

Current heat waves may already be being caused by global warming. NG

Environment

Group says the EPA is ignoring science in favor of politics. NYT

Animals

Orangutans are the smartest non-human primates. Nature

Drugs

Marijuana may interfere with conception. BBC, Guardian

US drug czar calls for tougher measures to fight meth. AP

Cancer

3rd breast cancer gene discovered. UPI

Increased ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in the diet may decrease prostate cancer progression. Reuters

Health

Fate of FDA head nominee is tied to "Plan B" status. AP, NYT, Reuters, UPI

Fat people are delusional. AP

9/11 first responders show lung damage. BBC, LAT, WP (scroll down)

Space

The Atlantis space shuttle is moving to the launch pad. AP

Technology

Google may add all books in the University of California system to its digital library. LAT

CVS to start online film processing. Reuters

Evolution

More on pro-evolutionists bid to take over the Kansas State Board of Education. WP, AP, AP

Weather

Hurricane Chris? Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-08-01T09:16:00.000-04:00

Miscellaneous

Cuban President Fidel Castro temporarily relinquishes power to undergo surgery for intestinal bleeding. Miami Herald, BBC, Reuters, WP, AP, AP, LAT For more on this story, see TOKATAKIYA.

Economist: $100 per barrel oil not so bad. UPI

Environment

Israeli bombing has caused oil spills in Lebanon. BBC, NG, AP

Health

Researchers have developed a vaccine that blocks weight gain in rats. BBC, Reuters, ScienceNOW, LAT

The safety of Pacific Northwest oysters is questioned. Reuters, AP

Science

The ocean contains thousands of unknown bacterial species. CBC, BBC

Invisibility may be possible. Reuter s

Drugs

The FDA may allow over the counter sales of "Plan B" to women over 18. WP, Reuters, NYT, AP, AP

Cancer

Nicotine fuels the progression of tumors. Reuters

HIV/AIDS

Older patients with HIV are prone to experience depression. UPI

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Many options vie to replace gasoline. CSM

Rare Antarctic clouds seen as possible harbinger of global warming. Reuters

Technology

More scientists use Google Earth. Der Spiegel

Education

Voice of America broadcasts in "Special English", a 1,500 word vocabulary used to help people speak English. NYT

Evolution

Pro-evolution politicians seek seats on Kansas State Board of Education to reverse previous anti-evolution decisions. NYT

Politics

People do not listen to information that is counter to their beliefs. WP

Bird Flu

Experiments show that a bird flu pandemic may be less likely than previously thought. LAT, ScienceNOW, AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-07-31T09:33:00.000-04:00

HIV/AIDS

HIV reservoirs in the gut survive anti-retroviral drugs. BBC, CBC, Reuters

Health

Scientists have found a way to reverse muscular dystrophy in mice. BBC

Medicare drug benefit falling short for some. WP, UPI

More vaccinations are recommended for children. AP, AP

John Kerry calls for healthcare coverage for all Americans by 2012. AP, AP

Drinking is good for you. (In moderation people!) LAT

Animals

A type of spider makes noise during sex. LiveScience.com

New type of giant dinosaur discovered. NG

Nature

Scientists successfully predicted an earthquake in India. ScienceNOW

Cancer

Doctors say the new cervical cancer vaccine should be given to men and women. Reuter s

Scorpion venom may fight brain cancer. Reuters, BBC

Space

South Africa to start a space program. Reuters

Politics

Bill in the Senate would create searchable database of all government spending. WP

The Senate will vote on easing offshore oil drilling restrictions. CSM

Bird Flu

Smugglers are bringing bird flu across the Chinese border into Vietnam. WP

India says it is free of bird flu. AP, AP

The Thai government ordered 300,000 chickens killed following recent bird flu outbreak. DPA

Terrorism

Secret government anti-bioterrorism center being built. WP

DOD program supports teaching of languages relevant to the war on terror. WP

Here is an interesting article about the concerns surrounding generating designer viruses in the lab. WP

Miscellaneous

Taiwan looks to secure oil from Chad. DPA

Iran and Japan put finishing touches on $2 billion dollar oil deal. DPA

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-07-29T00:11:00.000-04:00

Environment

Report: Arab nations will need to spend $100 billion on water desalinization over the next 10 years to meet the rising demand for water. Reuters

HIV/AIDS

The rate of new HIV infections in South Africa is leveling off. AP, AP

Space

China plans to send seeds into space in the hope that cosmic rays will mutate them into super-fruits. Al Jazeera

Space shuttle Atlantis to launch in late August. Reuters

Space probe finds continent on Saturn’s moon Titan. NG

Saturn’s moon Titan may have lakes filled with liquid hydrocarbons. BBC, ScienceNOW, AP, AP

Methane rain falls on Saturn’s moon Titan. Reuters, Nature

NASA may halt research being done on the space station to deal with a $100 million budget shortfall. Reuters

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Use of corn as a fuel source may significantly impact corn as a food source. CSM

Health

Holy crap! Many Americans are too fat to be X-rayed. Reuters

Diabetes in childhood can drastically reduce life expectancy. Reuters, AP, AP

Scientists may have found a way to manipulate a bacterium so that it prevents mosquitoes from spreading malaria. BBC

Scientists have found genes that allow electrical currents to accelerate the healing of wounds. Guardian, Reuters, ScienceNOW

Technology

OK, for real this time: Microsoft will release its own version of the iPod called Zune. (Better than Origami.) WP, BBC

Report: Much of the US is not prepared to use electronic voting machines. WP

Pakistan is developing more plutonium. Nature, AP, WP, AP

Drugs

Most people are happy with their Medicare drug plans. AP

Bird Flu

Mass produced bird flu vaccine for humans may be ready by next year. Reuters, CBC, WP, AP, AP, NYT, BBC, DPA, Guardian

Stem Cells

The EU will continue to give a tiny amount of money to stem cell research, but no research that destroys embryos. BBC, AP, AP, Guardian

Stem cells from human fat have been turned into muscle cells in the lab. Reuters

White House Press Secretary takes back his “embryonic stem cells are murder” comment. WP

Disgraced South Korean stem cell scientist says he tried to clone mammoths. Reuters

Singapore develops the first stem cell lines suitable for use in human beings. Nature (In the “I told you so” department, see here.) [Actually, it wasn’t me but you get the point.]

Nature

Another earthquake hits Indonesia. Reuters, AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-07-28T00:05:00.000-04:00

Health

DDT to be used in Africa to fight malaria. UPI

Low-fat, vegan diet shows promise for treating type-2 diabetes. CBC, Reuters

Smoking vaccine? AP

House passes bill to accelerate the use of electronic health records. Reuters

Animals

Scientists say they know why flying dinosaurs grew crests on their heads: sex. (Big surprise.) BBC

Drugs

Most people are happy with their Medicare drug plans. AP

Space

NASA may halt research being done on the space station to deal with a $100 million budget shortfall. Reuters

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

A Nobel Prize winner suggests putting more sulfur in the atmosphere to counteract the extra CO2. LiveScience.com

No conflict of interest here: Energy company gives $100,000 to climate change “skeptic”. Reuters

Technology

AMD may not destroy Intel after all. Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-07-27T08:57:00.000-04:00

Bird Flu

More on the potential bird flu vaccine that may be out next year. CBC, WP, AP, AP, NYT, BBC, DPA, Guardian

Stem Cells

Singapore develops the first stem cell lines suitable for use in human beings. Nature (In the "I told you so" department, see here.) [Actually, it wasn’t me but you get the point.]

A clinic in the UK will be able to pay women having IVF to give up extra eggs for stem cell research. BBC

Nature

Another earthquake hits Indonesia. Reuters, AP

Drugs

Unpredictable responses to marijuana therapy may do more harm than good. BBC

Cancer

WHO: 60,000 die each year worldwide from getting too much sun. Reuters, BBC

HIV/AIDS

India may repeal law banning gay sex to help fight the spread of HIV. AP, AP

Health

Scientists have found genes that allow electrical currents to accelerate the healing of wounds. Guardian, Reuters, ScienceNOW

Transplant doctors want to offer people who donate their organs to get special benefits. UPI

Space

Methane rain falls on Saturn's moon Titan. Reuters, Nature

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

"U.S. officials and automotive industry leaders have agreed that hydrogen fuel is the long-term solution to reducing the country's oil dependence." Correct me if I’m wrong but, aren’t these the same people who made us oil dependant in the first place? UPI

Heat trapped in large cities affects summer weather. NG

Hydrogen scooter developed in the Netherlands. LiveScience.com

Technology

Pakistan is developing more plutonium. Nature, AP, WP, AP

MSN will run free episodes of "Arrested Development" online. LAT, AP, AP

Metallica goes on sale on iTunes. Reuters, LAT

Over 95% of email is spam. BBC

Evolution

Genes identified that pattern both fish fins and human limbs. CBC, LiveScience.com

Miscellaneous

ROBBLOG's first ever story about watermelon. CBC, Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-07-26T08:44:00.000-04:00

Health

Holy crap! Many Americans are too fat to be X-rayed. Reuters

Diabetes in childhood can drastically reduce life expectancy. Reuters, AP, AP

Scientists may have found a way to manipulate a bacterium so that it prevents mosquitoes from spreading malaria. BBC

Vaccines made with bacteria killed by radiation may be better than other types. Reuters

Animals

Family of squirrels takes over a house in Germany. Der Spiegel

Cancer

Theory: Testicular cancer may be particularly sensitive to chemotherapy due to testicular cells being used to slightly cooler than core body temperature. BBC, CBC, AP, AP

Space

Saturn's moon Titan may have lakes filled with liquid hydrocarbons. BBC, ScienceNOW, AP, AP

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Use of corn as a fuel source may significantly impact corn as a food source. CSM

Technology

Report: Much of the US is not prepared to use electronic voting machines. WP

Education

Most states are not living up to "No Child Left Behind" standards and may lose federal money. NYT

Judge puts banned children's book about Cuba back on the shelves in Miami-Dade. NYT

Evolution

Language skills may have evolved in early primates. Reuters

Bird Flu

Mass produced bird flu vaccine for humans may be ready by next year. Reuters

Thailand sees its 15th death from bird flu, first this year. BBC

Miscellaneous

Transgenic cotton may give rise to an increase in secondary pests. Nature

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-07-25T08:41:00.000-04:00

Stem Cells

The EU will continue to give a tiny amount of money to stem cell research, but no research that destroys embryos. BBC, AP, AP, Guardian

Stem cells from human fat have been turned into muscle cells in the lab. Reuters

White House Press Secretary takes back his “embryonic stem cells are murder” comment. WP

Disgraced South Korean stem cell scientist says he tried to clone mammoths. Reuters

Health

Cigarette smoking may cause people to consume more alcohol. BBC, Nature

Space

Space shuttle Atlantis to launch in late August. Reuters

Weather

High temperatures in Los Angeles temporarily shut down MySpace.com. BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-07-24T09:37:00.000-04:00

Drugs

Human trial are about to start on Alzheimer's pill that may significantly reduce the amount of amyloid protein in patients brains. BBC, Reuters

Leukemia drug shown to have dangerous cardiac side effects. BBC, AP, AP, Reuters, Nature

Environment

President Bush's anti-pollution measures are judged to be equal to President Clinton's. (By actual scientists.) WP

Report: Arab nations will need to spend $100 billion on water desalinization over the next 10 years to meet the rising demand for water. Reuters

HIV/AIDS

The rate of new HIV infections in South Africa is leveling off. AP, AP

Health

American students are turning to Cuba for free medical education. WP

Anti-obesity surgery results in complications in 40% of patients. NYT

Space

China plans to send seeds into space in the hope that cosmic rays will mutate them into super-fruits. Al Jazeera

Space probe finds continent on Saturn's moon Titan. NG

Technology

OK, for real this time: Microsoft will release its own version of the iPod called Zune. (Better than Origami.) WP, BBC

Evolution

Genome analysis shows evidence of natural selection at work in humans. WP

Stem Cells

The EU is considering a stem cell research funding ban similar to the US. (Prepare to have to fly to Seoul for your medical needs in the future.) BBC, Reuters

Bird Flu

The sole patient in Indonesia to survive the bird flu is finally going home. AP, AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-07-22T00:07:00.000-04:00

Stem Cells

Senate passes 3 stem cell bills. WP, Al Jazeera, Reuters, AP, AP, BBC, ScienceNOW

President Bush vetoes stem cell bill. Reuters, NYT, WP, BBC, Guardian, ScienceNOW, AP, ROBBLOG

House vote to override Bush’s veto falls short. AP, AP

Scientists say Bush is “out of touch” on stem cell issue. BBC

The ban has damaged US progress on stem cell technology. WP

Governor Schwarzenegger authorizes $150 million loan to California’s stem cell institute to circumvent anti-stem cell lawsuits. Reuters, AP, AP

Space

The space shuttle returned safely to Earth. Al Jazeera, CBC, BBC, WP, AP,AP, NYT, Reuters, CSM, Nature, NG, LAT

HIV/AIDS

The Gates Foundation donates $287 million to development of an AIDS vaccine. NYT, BBC, AL Jazeera, AP, AP, LAT, Guardian

Animals

Tiger habitat has been reduced by 40% in the last decade. Reuters, BBC, NG, AP, Guardian

Not to be outdone by the Germans, Italy may kill Bruno’s mother. Der Spiegel

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Toyota to sell plug-in hybrids. CSM

Company says it can produce oil from plankton. Reuters

Melting ice may release trapped methane into the atmosphere, further exacerbating global warming. Reuters

Science

Another poor funding year anticipated for NIH in 2007. ScienceNOW

Researchers look to sequence Neanderthal genome. Reuters, AP, AP, NYT, Nature, LAT, Guardian

Drugs

Methamphetamine remains the biggest drug problem in the US. AP, AP

New implantable birth control drug approved by FDA. AP, AP, Reuters

Health

Judge: Wal-Mart does not have to spend more on their employees’ health insurance in Maryland. NYT, WP, AP, AP

Nature

An earthquake in Indonesian spawned a tsunami that claimed at least 547 lives. AP, AP

New rift in Africa/Arabia tectonic plates may eventually form a new ocean. BBC, LiveScience.com, NG

Bird Flu

Scientists confirm 42nd Indonesian bird flu death. AP, AP

Cancer

A new blood test may provide early detection of lung cancer. Reuters

Education

Republican lawmakers announce $100 million school voucher plan for low income students. WP, NYT, AP, AP

Study shows that public schools are roughly equal to private schools in performance. NYT

Miscellaneous

Women seeking abortion advice are often given misleading information. Reuters, WP, AP, AP

Some European countries are bribing women to have children with benefits to boost sagging populations. AP, AP And they are sagging. AP, AP

Amnesty International says Microsoft, Google, and Yahoo! violate human rights by working with China against dissidents. AP, AP, Reuters

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Como Esta, %!#*#

2006-07-21T15:19:00.000-04:00

Just to update something I talked about last week, apparently Castro is still alive.

Damn.

Anyway, this is my last non-science post on ROBBLOG (probably). That's why I have the new site. Just didn't want to leave anyone in suspense.

Tags: Castro, Cuba

Today in Science

2006-07-21T08:54:00.000-04:00

Animals

Tiger habitat has been reduced by 40% in the last decade. Reuters, BBC, NG, AP, Guardian

Stem Cells

Governor Schwarzenegger authorizes $150 million loan to California’s stem cell institute to circumvent anti-stem cell lawsuits. Reuters, AP, AP

Germany wants the EU to ban funding for embryonic stem cell research. Reuters

Company freezes stem cells from baby teeth. AP, AP

Science

Experimental details of an attempt to clone a human are published. Guardian

Researchers look to sequence Neanderthal genome. Reuters, AP, AP, NYT, Nature, LAT, Guardian

Drugs

Prescription drug errors hurt 1.5 million people per year. Reuters, WP, AP, AP, NYT

Cancer

Drug company Roche talks about curing some types of cancer. Reuters

Health

Electronic pill that can diagnose stomach disorders approved by the FDA. AP, AP

CDC: More women are lifting weights but most people do not. AP, AP, Reuters

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Company says it can produce oil from plankton. Reuters

Melting ice may release trapped methane into the atmosphere, further exacerbating global warming. Reuters

Technology

Power Point virus seen. Reuters, BBC

Movies are trying a new and improved 3D. LAT

Bird Flu

Indonesian bird flu crisis will probably get worse. NYT

Miscellaneous

Agriculture department to scale back mad cow testing. NYT, AP, AP

Motion to dismiss warrantless wire tapping lawsuit against AT&T denied. WP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-07-20T08:58:00.000-04:00

Stem Cells

President Bush vetoes stem cell bill. Reuters, NYT, WP, BBC, Guardian, ScienceNOW, AP, ROBBLOG

House vote to override Bush's veto falls short. AP, AP

Scientists say Bush is "out of touch" on stem cell issue. BBC

HIV/AIDS

The Gates Foundation donates $287 million to development of an AIDS vaccine. NYT, BBC, AL Jazeera, AP, AP, LAT, Guardian

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Toyota to sell plug-in hybrids. CSM

Super fast, super expensive electric car unveiled. NYT

Simple changes in India and China have cut greenhouse emissions. NG

Science

Another poor funding year anticipated for NIH in 2007. ScienceNOW

Animals

Scientists want a new world organization to combat loss of biodiversity. BBC, Reuters, Guardian

Nature

New rift in Africa/Arabia tectonic plates may eventually form a new ocean. BBC, LiveScience.com, NG

Drugs

Alzheimer's patch may be on the way. AP, AP

Cancer

Proteins that keep the cornea clear of blood vessel may be used to fight cancer. LiveScience.com

Health

San Francisco is moving closer to universal health care. AP, AP

Judge: Wal-Mart does not have to spend more on their employees' health insurance in Maryland. NYT, WP, AP, AP

Space

China wants to explore Mars. Reuters

Technology

HD camcorder from Sony. Reuters

Education

Republican lawmakers announce $100 million school voucher plan for low income students. WP, NYT, AP, AP

Bird Flu

Scientists confirm 42nd Indonesian bird flu death. AP

Miscellaneous

Amnesty International says Microsoft, Google, and Yahoo! violate human rights by siding with China against dissidents. AP, AP, Reuters

The Indian government is blocking some blogs. WSJ, BBC

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Sound and Fury Signifying Nothing

2006-07-19T15:48:00.000-04:00

Well, after 5+ years filled with political wrangling, greatly impeded biomedical progress, and a bill passed with a large bi-partisan coalition in Congress...we are right back where we started from:

President Bush vetoed the stem cell bill using his first and, (depending on how the fall elections go) possibly only, veto.

Say hello to sub-30% approval ratings! (Oh and continued suffering and misery for millions of sick people. Thanks religious conservatives!) Around 70% of Americans disagree with the President on this issue.

Tags: Science, Politics, Stem Cells

Today in Science

2006-07-19T07:49:00.000-04:00

Stem Cells

Senate passes 3 stem cell bills. One easing restrictions on federal funding for embryonic stem cells awaits President Bush's first ever veto. WP, Al Jazeera, Reuters, AP, AP, BBC, ScienceNOW

One sponsored by Rick Santorum did not pass the House. AP, AP

The ban has damaged US progress on stem cell technology. WP

Groups are challenging patents on stem cell technology. ScienceNOW

Health

Autistic boys have fewer neurons in their amygdalas. Reuters

Bird Flu

National Governor's Association releases bird flu guidelines. AP, AP

Drugs

Methamphetamine remains the biggest drug problem in the US. AP, AP

New implantable birth control drug approved by FDA. AP, AP, Reuters

Miscellaneous

More people worldwide are moving to coastal regions as coastal regions become more dangerous. LiveScience.com

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Today in Science

2006-07-18T09:38:00.000-04:00

Space

The space shuttle returned safely to Earth. Al Jazeera, CBC, BBC, WP, AP,AP, NYT, Reuters, CSM, Nature, NG, LAT

Nature

The death toll is well over 300 for the latest Indonesian tsunami, warning system in doubt. Der Spiegel, AP, WP

Stem Cells

President Bush will veto the stem cell bill. WP, LiveScience.com, NYT, Reuters, AP, WP, AP

Science

Cloned humans would feel like individuals. BBC

Scientists look to make sequencing a person's genome cheap enough for everyone to do. NYT

Animals

I miss Bruno the German Bear, but maybe Bitey the Rabid Bobcat can take his place. AP, AP

Speaking of Bruno: Not to be outdone by the Germans, Italy may kill Bruno's mother. Der Spiegel

Cancer

Questions answered about new cervical cancer vaccine. WP

FDA approves drug for ovarian cancer, despite advice to the contrary. Reuters

Proteins involved in the spread of pancreatic cancer identified. Reuters

Health

Hospital architects say private rooms would reduce infectious disease transmission, errors. AP, AP

Namibia starts program to re-eradicate polio. AP, AP

Alzheimer's drug slow reduction in brain size. Reuters

Radiofrequency ID tags can be used to detect surgical instruments left in patients. ScienceNOW, Nature, Reuters

Miscellaneous

Women seeking abortion advice are often given misleading information. Reuters, WP, AP, AP

Some European countries are bribing women to have children with benefits to boost sagging populations. AP, AP And they are sagging. AP, AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

Stem Cells in the (So-Called) News

2006-07-17T17:12:00.000-04:00

Here is an example of some of the garbage that "journalists" write about the stem cell issue. The author wants us all to know that stem cell treatments are far away – pardon me but NO CRAP! They are farther away every single day that adequate funding is denied to stem cell research. She also points out that the federal government is this year funding $38 million dollars in stem cell research. That is a big number! Surely it is enough. Unless you consider the fact that the recent $3 billion California stem cell initiative is going to fund $300 million per year for 10 years! And that is only ONE state. Private funding already exceeds $38 million. More importantly, those federal funds are limited to the (poor) stem cell lines that existed prior to the Bush ban.

Incidentally, the US is also falling behind the rest of the world in stem cell advances. That’s not how we roll, people. South Korea may be able to make cars that people want better than any American company can, but this? It is embarrassing and the rest of the world is eating us up for it. New technology means new jobs – I guess the Koreans just want it more.

To see what actual reporting of this issue looks like see here.

And check out my latest Tokatakiya post on the subject: YSK: Politicians Who (Say They) Oppose Stem Cell Research are Hypocrites or Ignorant

7.18.2006: Correction: I had originally said that California stem cell funding was $1 billion when in fact it is $3 billion. (Oops, I was more right than I thought.) The correct figures are now in the post.

Today in Science

2006-07-17T09:22:00.000-04:00

Stem Cells

Senate to debate stem cell bill this week. WP, NYT, Reuters, AP, AP Senate Majority Leader Frist predicts it will pass. Reuters

Scientists refute claims made by a Senate science advisor who is against the stem cell bill. WP

Nature

An earthquake in Indonesian spawned a killer tsunami. LiveScience.com, AP, AP

Space

Space shuttle to return today. CBC, NYT, Reuters, BBC

Animals

Vulture populations worldwide are endangered. Guardian

Cancer

A new blood test may provide early detection of lung cancer. Reuters

HIV/AIDS

The G8 wants more funding for AIDS. AP, AP But some say it is still not enough. Reuters

Health

Diabetes may lead to an increased risk of Alzheimer's. NYT

Technology

Apple and Microsoft may both be planning new MP3 players. Reuters

HP has developed a tiny wireless chip that may be put in almost anything. Reuters, BBC

Education

Study shows that public schools are roughly equal to private schools in performance. NYT

Bird Flu

42nd Indonesian dies from bird flu. Reuters, AP, AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News

This Week in Science

2006-07-15T00:47:00.000-04:00

HIV/AIDS

Once daily HIV pill containing 3 drugs approved. WP, CBC, Reuters, Al Jazeera, AP, AP, NYT, BBC, LAT

Evolution

Darwin’s finches have evolved while scientists watched. LiveScience.com, Nature, AP, AP

Health

Any kind of physical activity helps the elderly live longer. WP, AP, AP, CBC, Reuters

Senate votes to allow importing prescription drugs from Canada. Reuters, AP, AP

Animals

Western Africa’s Black Rhino’s may be extinct. Reuters, BBC, Guardian, NG

Analysis of mammoth genes reveals their coat color. BBC, Guardian, Nature, AP, AP

Biology

Gene expression varies between the sexes. Reuters, Nature

Space

The shuttle is deemed safe for return to Earth. WP, Reuters, BBC, Al Jazeera, NYT, AP

Stem Cells

Researchers have grown sperm from mouse embryonic stem cells. BBC

President Bush will probably veto any stem cell bill. AP, AP

Bird Flu

Bird flu in Spain. AP, AP

Bird flu vaccine ready for human trials. Guardian

Indonesian bird flu deaths reach 41. BBC, AP, AP

Technology

New sensor allows paralyzed man to move computer cursor with his mind. Reuters, NYT, ScienceNOW, NG, BBC, CBC, LAT

Speaking of advancements for the betterment of mankind: 103-inch TV! Reuters

Over 30 states are suing microchip manufacturers over alleged price-fixing. NYT, LAT, Reuters, AP, AP

Climate Change/Alternative Energy

Nobel laureate’s paper to suggest introducing sulfur into the stratosphere to fight climate change. Nature

Oil companies are investing in alternative energy. NYT

New study shows that biofuels made from corn and soybeans will not solve our energy crisis. Nature, AP, AP

Miscellaneous

North Korean missile may have been aimed at waters near Hawaii. Der Spiegel

House passes online gambling restriction bill. WP, BBC, AP, AP

Categories: Science news, Science, News