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Science News for November 19, 2001


Study first to confirm acupuncture's effect

Researchers measured the force required to overcome tissue-needle connection during acupuncture needling, finding a significant pullout force when needles were rotated. The study suggests that layers superficial to muscle may be involved in the body's response to acupuncture, with future research focusing on connective tissue's role.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateNov 19, 2001

All food energy improves memory in elderly, study says

A new study from the University of Toronto shows that consuming carbohydrate, fat and protein drinks of equal calories improves verbal recall in elderly individuals. The positive effects on memory are explained by an evolutionary perspective, suggesting specific types of food energy enhance specific aspects of brain function.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 19, 2001

Drowsy fruit flies illuminate first molecular pathway, in any species, known to regulate rest and wakefulness

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have identified a gene called CREB that plays a role in regulating rest's rejuvenating effects. The study found that CREB activity is inversely related to the physiological urge for sleep and that blocking this activity increases the need for sleep after a period of wakefulness.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 19, 2001

Blood vessels grown in live animals

Researchers at the University of Michigan successfully grew new, mature blood vessels in live animals by implanting scaffolds that delivered critical growth factors. The innovative approach, reported in Nature Biotechnology, has potential medical applications for alternatives to heart bypass surgery and treatments for vascular disease.

SourceWhitaker Foundation·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateNov 19, 2001

Adelaide scientists make HIV a safe aid in gene therapy

Researchers at Women's and Children's Hospital in Adelaide have developed a way to safely use Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1) to transfer therapeutic genes into human cells. This method has wide applicability for various human genetic diseases and is currently being tested on animal models before moving to human trials.