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Science News for October 26, 2005


Walking and sports linked with heart health benefits in Japan, too

A large-scale study found a significant inverse association between time spent walking and risk of ischemic stroke, as well as an inverse relationship between sports participation and coronary heart disease risk in Asian countries. Regular physical activity was associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease mortality.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 26, 2005

Popular insecticide detected in suburban stream beds

Researchers have detected pyrethroids, a common insecticide, in nearly all sediment samples from urban and suburban streams, posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems. The finding highlights the need for greater monitoring and consideration of the potential effects of residential use of pyrethroids on water systems.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 26, 2005

Doctors call for urgent review of cancer initiative

A hospital research team and a leading cancer professor express serious concerns about the effectiveness of the two-week wait target, which has not improved survival rates. They urge the Government to rethink the target and focus on targeting all stages of the cancer pathway for earlier diagnosis and treatment.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalInternational Journal of Clinical Practice·DateOct 26, 2005

Mayo Clinic researchers find math learning disorder is common

Math learning disorder (Math LD) is more prevalent than previously thought, with estimates suggesting it affects up to six percent of school-age children. Researchers found that Math LD often co-occurs with reading disability and that current strategies for identifying LD may overlook this association.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalAmbulatory Pediatrics·DateOct 26, 2005

Largest survey on depression suggests higher prevalence in U.S., reports Mailman school

A recent survey of over 43,000 US adults found that middle-aged adults are at a higher risk of developing depression, with the highest lifetime risk among those aged 45-64. The study also revealed significant correlations between depression and substance use disorders, anxiety, and personality disorders.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateOct 26, 2005

Modifications render carbon nanotubes nontoxic

Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to reduce the toxicity of water-soluble carbon nanotubes through surface modifications. The study found that even minor changes can dramatically decrease cytotoxicity, making these nanoparticles more suitable for medical diagnostics and imaging.

SourceRice University·JournalToxicology Letters·DateOct 26, 2005