Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 8, 2004


Are you slow in coordinating your thoughts?

Researchers found a speed limit to neural network synchronization, set by network connectivity. The analysis revealed that even strong interactions cannot achieve faster synchronization than an upper limit. This could severely limit the speed of information processing in the brain.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 8, 2004

Watching genes in action

Researchers have developed a novel technique that allows them to visualize three genes at once in embryos, body tissues, or even single cells. This improved FISH method combines existing technologies to illuminate gene activity, enabling scientists to study embryonic development and birth defects in greater detail.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalDevelopmental Dynamics·DateMar 8, 2004

Abortion may not, after all, affect birth weight of future babies

Researchers analyzed over 13,000 live term births to assess the effect of medical abortion on subsequent pregnancy's birth weight. The study found that women who had undergone a medically induced abortion had lower rates of Low Birth Weight compared to those with no abortion history.

SourceElsevier·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·DateMar 8, 2004

Tai Chi has physical, psychological benefits

Long-term Tai Chi practice promotes balance control, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness, while reducing the risk of falls in elders. Benefits have also been reported for cardiovascular and respiratory function, as well as pain, stress, and anxiety.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMar 8, 2004

Sometimes it's the RNA

Messenger RNA (mRNA) stability plays a crucial role in determining disease severity in nervous system mutations, according to researchers at Baylor College of Medicine. Aberrant mRNA forms are usually eliminated through nonsense-mediated decay, but some escape and lead to defective protein production.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 8, 2004

Research suggests new way to repair cartilage damage

Researchers develop a novel treatment to stimulate natural cartilage tissue growth in knee joint defects, providing a potential solution for osteoarthritis treatment. The hyaluronan-based polymer creates a protective cap and enables new cartilage tissue to grow, filling the defect and promoting healing.

SourceDuke University·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateMar 8, 2004