|
Europe Heats Up
Heat
waves in the Old World are getting hotter and longer. University of Bern
researchers say the most accurate measurements yet of temperature,
corrected for a variety of errors, show the length of summertime hot
periods has doubled in Europe since 1880. They say the frequency of heat
waves has almost tripled in the same period.
The scientists said measurements in the 19th century over-estimated
temperature, mainly because thermometers were usually left out in the sun,
rather than in modern instrument shades. By correcting for this bias, they
say they have a more accurate temperature history.
From Croatia to Sweden, the average heat wave now lasts three days,
compared to one and a half days in 1880. They say this is compelling
evidence that global warming creates a particularly strong effect in
Europe.
Save Stomach Lose
Brain
Taking the most popular medicines sold in America may
cause memory problems. Indiana
University researchers report long-term use of histamine2 receptor
agonists (H2A) is associated with significantly increased cognitive
impairment.
The drugs are sold over the counter as Pepcid, Tagamet and Zantac among
others. Generic drug names include ranitidine and famotidine. The study
was in African-Americans over 65, and showed almost one in five who took
the acid blockers had signs of cognitive impairment. That is more than
twice the rate expected. Doctors say they need more study to see what
causes this and if it occurs in the population at large.
Source:
http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEM9A3XAIPE_index_0.html
|