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Science News for May 23, 2008


Remote-control health

A remote healthcare system with three main functions could address socioeconomic problems by providing quality medical care to all citizens, regardless of location. The system uses video conferencing, vital signs data uploading, and drip infusion monitoring to support nursing staff and care managers.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Web and Grid Services·DateMay 23, 2008

Hypoxia training suppresses harmful cardiac nitric oxide production during heart attack

Researchers found that intermittent hypoxia treatment reduced myocardial infarction and lethal arrhythmias following coronary artery occlusion and reperfusion in dogs. The treatment also suppressed cardiac activity of nitric oxide synthase, a key enzyme involved in the production of harmful compounds.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateMay 23, 2008

New research forces U-turn in population migration theory

Genetic evidence reveals a significant shift in the timeline of human migration into Island Southeast Asia, forcing a reevaluation of existing theories. The research suggests that climate change and sea-level rise drove population expansions across the region, rather than agriculture-driven 'Out of Taiwan' model.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMay 23, 2008

Managing computer fraud

Computer fraud can result from incompetence, ignorance, negligence or deliberate misappropriation by employees, causing millions of dollars in damages. Educating managers on security issues can minimize opportunistic computer fraud, making them aware of social and technical issues that affect organizational structure.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Business Information Systems·DateMay 23, 2008

Male painters exposed to fertility damaging chemicals

A study published in Occupational Environmental Medicine found that men working as painters and decorators who are exposed to glycol ethers have poor semen quality. The researchers discovered that these workers have a 2.5-fold increased risk of having a low motile sperm count compared to those with low exposure.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMay 23, 2008

Biotechnology vs. sustainability: What do students think?

A survey of college students revealed mixed opinions on the benefits and drawbacks of biotechnology in sustainable agriculture, with some supporting genetically modified crops and others expressing concerns over environmental and social impacts. The study suggests that educators should provide neutral exposure to both sustainable agric...

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Education·DateMay 23, 2008

Is Indy chasing a fake?

New research suggests two well-known crystal skulls, one in the British Museum and the Smithsonian Institution, did not come from ancient Mexico. The British skull was made in 19th century Europe, while the American one was created shortly before it was bought in Mexico City in 1960.

SourceCardiff University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateMay 23, 2008

Public schools as good as private schools in raising math scores, study says

A new University of Illinois study found that public school students made significantly greater gains in math scores by fifth grade compared to their Catholic school peers. Public schools rivaled the performance of other non-Catholic private schools, suggesting they are at least as effective in promoting student learning over time.

Video games can make us creative if spark is right

Researchers discovered that video games can boost creativity when players are highly energized and in a positive mood. Conversely, low arousal and negative emotions lead to the highest levels of creativity. The study suggests harnessing emotional elements in games to spark creative thought and problem-solving skills.