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Science News Archive November 2005


Page 10 of 16

Older brains 'rise to the challenge'

Researchers found that older adults increase activation in control-related brain regions and additional frontal brain areas when faced with difficult tasks. In contrast, young adults tend to deactivate certain brain regions. These findings suggest that older adults can adapt to challenging situations, although their brains may respond ...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Burning down the brewery

Researchers discovered an ancient brewery with a 1,800-liter capacity at Cerro Baúl, a sacred mountain in southern Peru. The brewery was abandoned and partially burned to the ground 1,000 years ago, along with a final batch of chicha, a fermented alcoholic drink central to the Wari culture.

Timing possible treatments against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have engineered mice to produce amyloid plaques in their brains, finding that treatment with drugs lowering Abeta production can prevent progression of Alzheimer's disease. However, treatment cannot reverse the disease. Early treatment with these drugs may be crucial in slowing or stopping its spread.

Exercise may ward off death in women with metabolic syndrome

Researchers followed nearly 6,000 women with metabolic syndrome over nine years, finding that cardiorespiratory fitness reduced overall deaths and heart disease-specific deaths to rates similar to those without the condition. Higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness were associated with lower risk factors and improved heart health.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

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Generous home-poured alcoholic beverages may lead to overindulgence

A recent study found considerable variation in drink size, particularly for spirits and wine, which can affect individuals' ability to track their alcohol consumption. The study suggests that using a single standard drink size of 0.6 ounces may be helpful for simplifying messages about safe drinking limits.

Multilateral initiative on malaria seeks international effort

A new multilateral initiative aims to develop a sustainable malaria research infrastructure in Africa by supporting competitively awarded grants for centers of excellence. Trained African scientists are crucial in assembling interdisciplinary teams and conducting research projects focused on developing better tools to fight the disease.

Most NSAIDs raise risk of death after heart attack

High doses of COX-2 inhibitors and other NSAIDs are associated with a higher risk of death, according to the study. Patients taking high doses of celecoxib or rofecoxib were found to be at a strikingly higher risk of death compared to those not taking NSAIDs.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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'Sharp' older brains are not the same as younger brains

A Johns Hopkins team found that aged rats with preserved cognitive abilities have a different mechanism for storing memories, relying on a different neurochemical device. This discovery could lead to the development of new preventive treatments and therapies based on what healthy older brains are doing.

Drug not effective in preventing bypass vein clogging

A Phase III clinical trial led by Duke University researchers found that edifoligide, a drug designed to prevent vein clogging in coronary bypass surgery, was no more effective than a placebo. The study showed that edifoligide had no significant impact on preventing neointimal hyperplasia, the process that causes veins to narrow and fail.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Gene variants predict heart muscle damage after cardiac surgery

Researchers identified six gene variants associated with post-operative myocardial infarction following cardiac surgery. Collectively, these variants can explain 75% of the variability in heart damage, allowing physicians to identify high-risk patients and take precautions during and after surgery.

Heart mapping technique safely guides catheter repair of arrhythmia

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine successfully used a 3D map of the heart to perform cardiac ablation, eliminating the need for radiation exposure and improving patient safety. The technique used sensor-guided catheter and electro-anatomic mapping to precisely target diseased heart tissue.

Limiting the damage in stroke

Researchers at EMBL and universities in Heidelberg and Ulm found that blocking a specific signal within brain cells may help prevent cell death after a stroke. The study suggests new therapies could be developed by controlling a molecule involved in passing the signal.

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SWI/SNF and erythropoiesis

A Brg1 mutation in mice reveals the importance of SWI/SNF complexes in beta-globin regulation and erythropoiesis. This study may provide insight into common ailments such as beta thalassemia and anemia. The findings highlight the significance of chromatin-remodeling complexes in development and physiology.

Light exercise a tonic to keep the brain young

A study by the University of Florida found that moderately active rats have healthier DNA and more robust brain cells than their sedentary counterparts. Regular mild exercise can prevent oxidative damage, which is believed to contribute to memory loss and cognitive decline with age.

Cord blood cells may widen treatment window for stroke

Researchers at USF Health found that cord blood cells administered two days post-stroke reduced brain inflammation and improved recovery in rats. The study challenges the notion of immediate cell death in the brain's core region, suggesting a delayed process of apoptosis may occur instead.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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Book about Papuans' right to self-determination

The book examines how the New Guinea conflict arose, developed, and was resolved. Historian Pieter Drooglever presents information from interviews and archival research, shedding light on the 'Act of Free Choice' referendum in 1969.

DNA technique measures suitability of soil for onion crops

A new DNA-based technique measures soil suitability for onion crops by detecting nematodes and fungus at the molecular level. This method surpasses traditional microscopic methods in accuracy and speed, enabling growers to make informed decisions about crop cultivation.

Natural chemistry finds its way to market

Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam and Radboud Universiteit Nijmegen developed a one-pot synthesis of complex molecules, resulting in faster reaction rates and higher yields. This innovation has the potential to reduce waste substances and energy needed in pharmaceutical production.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Harnessing genomic research

The LINK Applied Genomics Programme accelerated application of genomics knowledge in biomedicine through industry-academia collaboration. Highlights include nerve tissue regeneration, personalized cancer treatment, rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases, and vaccine development against salmonella.

Meditation associated with structural changes in brain

A study of Buddhist Insight meditation practitioners found thicker regions in the brain involved in mindfulness activities. The results suggest that long-term meditation practice may slow down age-related brain thinning and improve cognitive functions.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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New 'eye movement' test may help treat fetal alcohol syndrome

Researchers at Queen's University have developed a new eye movement test to identify children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which affects approximately one percent of Canadian children. The test can cut across cultural barriers and provide objectivity in identifying the disorder, allowing for improved treatment.

Increased dampness causes vegetation change

Increased dampness in Dutch dune valleys creates favourable conditions for certain plant species. Research reveals that restoration projects can be effective when specific characteristics are met.

Positive study results for methylphenidate transdermal system

The investigational methylphenidate transdermal system (MTS) demonstrated statistically significant reductions in ADHD symptoms and was well-tolerated in patients aged 6 to 12. MTS improved behavior, math performance, and overall symptom reduction compared to placebo.

AGU journal highlights - 11 November 2005

Climate scientists highlight human impact on temperature extremes, while researchers develop a new method to predict catastrophic earthquakes. Meanwhile, hurricane intensification may be linked to eyewall precipitation patterns.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Exercise adds years to life and improves quality, researchers say

Researchers found that exercise improves physical function and psychological benefits in older adults, increasing self-efficacy, quality of life, and overall satisfaction with life. Physical activity over time is associated with greater improvements in self-esteem and affect.

FleetSmart: Campaign to reduce unnecessary vehicle idling

The Idle-Free Quiet Zone Campaign, now in its fourth year, aims to reduce unnecessary idling in commercial vehicles. The 15-week campaign promotes techniques such as separate cab heaters and engine timers to minimize fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Neurologists refine multiple sclerosis diagnostic criteria

The new criteria allow for an earlier diagnosis of multiple sclerosis with minimal loss of diagnostic accuracy. The revised guidelines also reduce the number of MRI scans required to evaluate disease progression, making it a powerful tool for diagnosing MS and excluding alternative diagnoses.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Study finds billions of health insurance dollars used for administrative costs

A recent study reveals that approximately $230 billion in national healthcare spending is devoted to insurance administration. Insurance companies spend around 10% of premiums on billing and marketing activities, while physicians' offices allocate 14%, with hospitals using 9%. The study found that only 66% of health insurance dollars a...

From one cell, many possible cures

A Florida State University research team has developed a biomedical device called a perfusion bioreactor that allows for the large-scale growth of adult stem cells from bone marrow. The device mimics the body's circulatory system and delivers nutrients to stem cells, enabling controlled differentiation into various tissue types.

University of Queensland a leader in world-first minerals institute

The University of Queensland is leading a world-first consortium to create an Australian Minerals Science Research Institute, funded by a $8.6 million ARC grant. The five-year research program will focus on sustainable mining and mineral processing, with potential applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals and food production.

Monash secures $32 million in ARC funding

Monash University has received $32 million in ARC funding for diverse research projects, including investigating immunity and infection control. The university's Civil Engineering department will use the grant to predict and reduce water and gas leakage in underground pipes.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Statins reduce the risk of stroke and death after carotid artery surgery

Patients who received statin medication before carotid artery surgery experienced a three-fold lower stroke rate and five-fold lower mortality rate compared to those who did not. Statins may reduce the risk of stroke by reducing plaque fragmentation or clot formation, although the exact mechanism is unclear.

2005 Cy Young winners correctly predicted by mathematical model

A mathematical model developed by Rhode Island College mathematicians correctly predicted the Cy Young winners in both leagues, except for a relief pitcher award. The model accurately forecasted Dontrelle Willis and Johann Santana as second-place finishers in their respective leagues.

Sexually satisfied but feeling frumpy: It's body image, not 'the change'

A new study found that a woman's perception of her own attractiveness has no significant impact on her current sexual satisfaction. Women reported feeling more attractive at younger ages and experiencing declines in desire or activity over time, but still reported high levels of enjoyment during sex.

Heredity may be the reason some people feel lonely

A study by the University of Chicago found that identical twins shared similar characteristics of loneliness at a rate of 50%, while fraternal twins shared at 25%. The research suggests that genetics may play a significant role in the development of loneliness, which can have severe consequences on mental and physical health.

GoPro HERO13 Black

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How could a Roberts-Alito court support the Republican political agenda?

The research examines how the U.S. Supreme Court can assist powerful officials in achieving their ideological objectives through direct political action. Key findings include states as a crucial factor in generating national political support for judicial review and the importance of entrenched interests and fragmented coalitions in sh...