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Science News for October 6, 2006


IBM awards Rice $700K for shared university research project

Rice and IBM collaborate to develop an open-standards-based service-oriented architecture (SOA) to integrate diverse academic software applications. The SOA will enable institutions to tie together their applications, making it easier for faculty and students to create a more integrated learning environment.

SourceRice University·DateOct 6, 2006

Study shows unique garlic product works like the real thing

A clinical trial shows that Garli-Eze, a unique garlic product, can deliver large amounts of allicin directly to the upper gastrointestinal tract for easy absorption. This process eliminates degradation issues and allows for effective cardiovascular benefits.

SourceStrategic Communications·DateOct 6, 2006
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Genes and diet linked to risk factors for heart disease

Researchers found a genetic link between APOA5 and heart disease risk, specifically in those consuming high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. Carriers of the gene variant who ate more than six percent of total calories from omega-6s had increased triglyceride levels and elevated lipoprotein particles.

SourceTufts University·DateOct 6, 2006

Researchers to develop active nanoscale surfaces for biological separations

A team of researchers is developing nanoscale surfaces that actively reassemble in the presence of DNA, which could lead to more efficient separation tools for genomics and proteomics. The new approach mimics nature's lipid bilayers and can be dynamically modified using temperature, light, or electric fields.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateOct 6, 2006

LSD treatment for alcoholism gets new look

A recent study published in Social History of Medicine reveals that LSD can be an effective treatment for alcoholism, with 65% of participants abstaining from drinking for at least a year after receiving a single dose. The therapy worked by allowing patients to experience a spiritual journey that empowered them to heal themselves.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalSocial History of Medicine·DateOct 6, 2006

Electromagnetic miniatures

Scientists at Harvard University have developed a method for creating microfluidic channels with parallel metal wires, allowing for the control of magnetic components. The method uses polydimethylsiloxane resin and molten solder to produce stable metal cables, which can generate strong magnetic fields within the channel.

SourceWiley·DateOct 6, 2006

Robotic whiskers can sense three-dimensional environment

Researchers at Northwestern University developed arrays of robotic whiskers that sense information about object shape and fluid flow. These artificial whiskers can extract three-dimensional features from solid objects by analyzing bending moments and strain gauges.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateOct 6, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Prescribe exercise for older adults for better health

Physicians can now provide personalized exercise recommendations using the FITT-PRO guidelines, which include frequency, intensity, type, time, and progression. Regular physical activity has been shown to benefit people of all fitness levels, particularly seniors who have limited access to information.

SourceTufts University·DateOct 6, 2006

Science of healthy foods subject of grant aimed at university students

A $500,000 USDA grant will enable researchers to develop a new course on the science of food for health, focusing on phytochemicals and antioxidants. The course will be taught to 20 students from three universities, who will receive hands-on training and lab work in various disciplines.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateOct 6, 2006

Consuming cola may up osteoporosis risk for older women

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that cola consumption is associated with lower bone mineral density in older women, regardless of age, menopausal status, or diet. This may be due to phosphoric acid's potential to promote calcium loss from bones.

SourceTufts University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 6, 2006
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.

Car manufacturers acting in the interest of profits rather than safety in poor countries

A recent study published in Injury Prevention calls for increased vigilance on car manufacturers' commitment to road safety initiatives. The research analyzed word frequency analysis of road safety documents from the Global Road Safety Partnership and found that commercial interests often conflict with evidence-based recommendations.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalInjury Prevention·DateOct 6, 2006

Train your brain to hear your friends at a party

A UK researcher has won a major science prize for his work on the region of the brain that helps us hear someone in a noisy place. The researcher, Sam Irving, is studying how the brain adapts to hearing loss and uses feedback systems to compensate.

SourceDeafness Research UK·DateOct 6, 2006

New technology to speed up research into Huntington's disease

Researchers at Cambridge University have developed an effective new method to test cognitive decline in mice with Huntington's disease using an automated touch screen. The tool allows for minimal movement by the mouse and is less stressful, making it a valuable asset in studying neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 6, 2006