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Science News Archive November 2006 - Page 6


Page 6 of 16

Twin star explosions fascinate astronomers

Astronomers have observed a rare phenomenon of two supernovas occurring simultaneously in the same galaxy, with implications for our understanding of galaxy mergers. The high frequency of supernovas in NGC 1316 suggests that massive star formation may be driving this activity.

Male chimpanzees prefer mating with old females

Male chimpanzees show a preference for mating with older females, a stark contrast to human behavior where younger females are often preferred. This finding suggests that long-term pair bonding and menopause may have evolved in the human lineage after diverging from chimpanzees.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 20, 2006

Important factors in compliance with HIV regimens identified; and more

A systematic review of HIV medication adherence factors reveals common barriers in both developed and developing countries, as well as unique challenges in resource-constrained settings. Facilitators of adherence include having a sense of self-worth, simplicity of regimens, and reminder tools, but no such facilitators were identified i...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 20, 2006

Touch tracking bypasses mind control

Researchers found that touch tracking bypasses the brain's cognitive system, allowing participants to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. This breakthrough could help individuals with coordination problems improve their hand movements.

A quantum (computer) step

Researchers at the University of Utah have demonstrated a way to read data stored in the magnetic spins of phosphorus atoms, a major obstacle for building a particular kind of quantum computer. This breakthrough could lead to the development of superfast computers based on quantum physics.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 19, 2006

Disclosure of advertising tactics reduces odds kids will drink

A weeklong intervention in schools reduced adolescents' inclination to drink by teaching them critical thinking skills and strategies to question alcohol ads. The program, led by Penn State's Marvin E. Goldberg, equipped students with persuasion knowledge and processed advertising messages.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateNov 17, 2006

Critical pairing

Scientists discover that the structure of the bases, rather than the backbone, is critical in developing genetic material. They created molecules with alternative bases and found that only one pair was strong enough to form specific base pairs.

SourceWiley·DateNov 17, 2006

Shorter post-operative recovery stay following outpatient tonsillectomy is safe, cost-efficient

A new UCLA study found that pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomies can be safely discharged after a short post-operative recovery period at an outpatient surgery center. The study, which reviewed nearly 800 patient records, showed no increased complications with average discharge times of 1 hour and 47 minutes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalInternational Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology·DateNov 17, 2006

Rice chemists create, grow nanotube seeds

Rice University chemists have successfully created and grown carbon nanotube seeds, which can be used to produce large quantities of pure nanotubes. The breakthrough offers significant potential for various materials applications, including energy storage and electronics.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 17, 2006

World Health Organization in the era of Margaret Chan

Margaret Chan takes over as WHO Director-General on January 4, 2007, with a daunting task of prioritizing programs amidst widespread failures in malaria, tuberculosis, HIV-AIDS, child mortality, and maternal health. The Lancet Editorial highlights her need to create an operational team that commands confidence from member states.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 16, 2006

New HIV statistics indicate increasing toll of AIDS on African American community

The African-American community is facing a disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS, with over half of all new diagnoses among this group. The National Minority AIDS Council recommends five policy solutions to address this disparity, including eliminating stigma against black MSM and reducing the role of injection drug use in sustaining the...

Hormone replacement therapy may improve trip down memory lane

A new study from the University of Michigan Health System suggests that hormone therapy may help retain certain memory functions in postmenopausal women. The research found increased brain activity in the prefrontal cortex of participants taking combined estrogen-progestin hormone therapy, compared to those on placebo.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 16, 2006

ADAPT safety results now published

The study found a potential increased risk of cardiovascular events among elderly individuals taking naproxen, while celecoxib showed no significant risk. The results contribute to the larger body of evidence on the safety of these non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Clinical Trials·DateNov 16, 2006