Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Silky Teeth

One my favorite websites, ABC Science, I found an interesting article in which scientists discussed how silk might be the key element in replacing damaged teeth or bones. Professor David Kaplan (from Tufts University) says, "Spider and silkworm silks are among the strongest natural fibers." I found this fascinating because you always see how strong silk is in spider webs and such when you see insects getting stuck in them. Other scientists throughout the article talked about how the silk has incredible attributes among tension and compression. It is tough and has more strength then one could know. Knowing these characteristics, scientists are looking into using silk to rebuild teeth and bones. Testing shows it is not harmful to humans, therefore it could be used for these wanted purposes. Silk is also extremely durable so it will not break down easily and if it did, no harmful acids would be placed into the human body. I personally feel, the more natural and non harmful substances we find, we should use. The planet as a whole will run out of resources and technology and man made substances will not be able to fix and create everything. We must keep finding more and more natural resources which we can use to create important things such as using silk to make bone matrix to help create new bone and teeth.

Friday, November 14, 2008

ICE AGE: THE "MELTDOWN"

Scientists believe that our planet will go through another ice age due to changes in its orbit years from now (around 10,000 to be exact!). However, a new study shows it is possible the ice age may be prevented; instead the planet will continue in a "meltdown" or remain the same. I came across an article on ABC science news which discusses this possible ice age. Professor Thomas Crowley and Dr William Hyde recently created a journal entitled Nature. They believe it is possible the ice age could be by-passed or simply not occur due to the Co2 levels in the atmosphere. Don't confuse their opinion as a defense to Global Warming, it simply is just a theory that our planet will remain the same instead of freezing over.

"In September, a scientific research consortium called the Global Carbon Project (GCP) said that atmospheric concentrations of CO2 reached 383 parts per million (ppm) in 2007, or 37% above pre-industrial levels."
"Present concentrations are 'the highest during the last 650,000 years and probably during the last 20 million years,' the report says"

These two quotes are facts in which our CO2 levels are higher then they have ever been and scientists believe even if we were to cute back on our CO2 emissions, it would probably be enough to stop a future ice age. I think it is important for our planet to go in and out of different climates whether it is a meltdown or an ice age. It creates a clean slate to start with new, fresh resources. However, an ice age would obviously be a major set back in our society and the progress we have made as a species. Good think this ice age is planning to come for thousands of years and I hope we know either how to take care of it then or hope the CO2 emissions can help prevent freezing!!