Reason as our guide
Bioethicists Elizabeth Blackburn and Janet Rowley critique two PLoS Biology reports for presenting a biased agenda. They argue that the reports overlook diverse scientific opinions on stem cell research and aging studies.
Science News for March 5, 2004
Hybrids on the high seas
Fuel cells offer improved efficiency, low emissions, and design flexibility for naval vessels, slashing shipbuilding costs. The Navy's ONR is testing a diesel fuel reformer to develop a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell, which will be capable of between 37-52 percent efficiency.
Metabolic 'footprint' may be new measure of obesity risk in kids
Researchers found that adiponectin may be a key player in determining true risk of heart disease in obese children. The study showed lower adiponectin levels in obese children, who also had higher inflammation markers and cholesterol levels, indicating a potential 'footprint' for heart disease.
News tips from the American Heart Association
Research highlights the link between clinical depression and primary cardiac arrest, as well as low awareness of stroke risk among women in ethnic minorities. Meanwhile, studies reveal the role of adiponectin in regulating cholesterol levels and the importance of targeted educational programs to improve public health.
Folic acid fortification may have lowered stroke deaths
A recent study found that folic acid fortification was associated with a significant decline in stroke-related mortality rates. The researchers estimated that 31,000 stroke-associated deaths and 17,000 deaths related to ischemic heart disease may have been prevented each year since fortification was implemented.
Obesity leads to high blood pressure in the young
Researchers found a strong correlation between obesity and high blood pressure in children aged 8-17. The prevalence of high blood pressure increased by 4.2% among overweight children, 3.5% among obese children, and 2.6% among normal-weight children over 10 years.
New animal model for Alzheimer vaccine
A new animal model has been created to evaluate the effectiveness of an Alzheimer's vaccine, with promising results in clearing brain amyloid and reversing cognitive decline. The study involved vaccinating rhesus monkeys with beta-amyloid, a protein fragment suspected of disrupting nerve cells in the Alzheimer brain.
Problems controlling anger lead to weight gain for teens
Researchers found that teenagers with lower BMIs had higher average anger control scores, while those with increasing BMI's had decreasing anger expression scores. This suggests that unhealthy ways of expressing anger are associated with overweight in teens.
'Chatting' in Iraq
The Coalition Chat Line, a trans-lingual instant messaging technology, was successfully implemented at several US and allied sites in Iraq. The system enabled commanders and operators to communicate rapidly and reliably, even when speaking different languages, reducing costs and delays associated with conventional translation practices.
A world ruled by fungi
Researchers have reconstructed the event month by month, finding that fungi and saprophytes took over within a few months to couple of years. The layer of fossil fungi is followed by a recovery flora, which re-established relatively quickly.
Subconscious bias kicks in quickly and skews perceptions
Research suggests that subconscious bias can distort facial perceptions, leading to the perpetuation of stereotypes and racism. Studies show that even well-meaning individuals may view identical faces as more hostile in African American faces, highlighting the importance of addressing implicit bias.
Will an apple a day keep the doctor away? There are better food choices, research notes
A Saint Louis University study finds that most Americans don't make the most nutritious choices due to unclear nutrition messages. The research suggests eating a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A and C, betacarotene, and fiber reduces chronic disease risk.