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Science News for October 11, 2005


No reason to fear very low LDL

Researchers analyzed data from a large trial and found no safety concerns for patients with very low LDL levels. The study suggests that intensive statin therapy may be beneficial even when LDL levels drop below targeted levels.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 11, 2005

Alzheimer's & Dementia marks first issue

The inaugural issue of Alzheimer's & Dementia focuses on the link between a high-folate diet and lower Alzheimer's disease risk, with studies showing a 55% reduction in risk for older adults. The journal will publish quarterly, offering valuable resources for professionals in the field.

Atoms under control

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have cooled single rubidium atoms in an optical resonator for up to 17 seconds, a record-breaking achievement. This milestone demonstrates the potential of atomic manipulation for quantum computing applications.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 11, 2005

Researchers call for better public health campaigns to control and eliminate river blindness

A new mathematical model developed by researchers at Imperial College London can help reduce the numbers affected by river blindness. The model measures exposure by analyzing how often people were bitten by flies carrying the parasite, providing a better understanding of the role of exposure in the fight against the disease.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 11, 2005

Katrina floodwaters not as toxic to humans as previously thought, study says

A study by Louisiana State University researchers has found that Katrina floodwaters were not as toxic as previously thought, but still contained high levels of certain metals and bacteria. The findings suggest that while the floodwaters posed some risks to human health, they were not the chemical catastrophe initially predicted.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 11, 2005

Study: 'Run-down feeling' with illness may last longer as people age

Researchers found that older animals exhibited an exaggerated inflammatory response in the brain compared to younger adults when exposed to a peripheral infection. This led to prolonged sickness symptoms and cognitive disorders. The study suggests that normal aging may also prime microglial cells, making them overreact to infections.

New study on childhood asthma shows home-based interventions are cost-effective

A new study shows that home-based environmental interventions can significantly reduce asthma symptoms and healthcare costs in children. The program, which targeted six major allergen classes, resulted in a 19% decrease in unscheduled clinic visits and a 13% reduction in albuterol inhaler use.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 11, 2005