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Science News Archive October 2009 - Page 22


Page 22 of 27

UA scientists discover quantum fingerprints of chaos

Researchers at the University of Arizona have performed experiments that show classical chaos exists in the quantum world, revealing new signatures of chaos and entanglement. The team manipulated individual laser-cooled cesium atoms to mimic a textbook example of chaos, demonstrating dynamic stability and erratic behavior.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 2009

Continuing racial differences in HIV prevalence in US

Research found racial differences in individual behaviors do not fully explain marked disparities in HIV infection prevalence. Social factors such as exposure to the virus through racially segregated mixing patterns and poverty contribute to these differences. The US response to the epidemic has failed to control the spread of HIV amon...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 6, 2009

Novel polymer delivers genetic medicine, allows tracking

A new polymer has been developed that can deliver genetic cargo into cells and track its movement using luminescence and magnetic resonance imaging. This breakthrough could lead to more specific and targeted treatments for diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 2009

Chinese herbal medicines for preventing diabetes in high risk people

Researchers found that combining herbal medicines with lifestyle changes can normalize blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing full-blown diabetes. The study of 16 clinical trials involving 1,391 participants showed a significant benefit in those who received herbal formulations.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateOct 6, 2009

Heart disease: B vitamin pills have no effect

A recent Cochrane Systematic Review found no evidence that B-vitamin supplements can prevent heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular disease. The review of 24,210 people showed that these supplements have no effect on the incidence of cardiovascular disease.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateOct 6, 2009

Do dust particles curb climate change?

Researchers analyzed literature to find that aerosol particles interact with clouds in a complex way, affecting precipitation patterns. They suggest focusing on specific cloud systems and rethinking aerosol research to better understand the dust particles' role in climate change.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateOct 6, 2009

Ethnic background may be associated with diabetes risk

A new study found that South Asians are more likely to develop insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes due to their body composition, specifically higher total body fat and lower muscle mass. Researchers measured insulin levels in four ethnic groups and discovered a strong association between body fat distribution and diabetes risk.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 6, 2009

Bell's palsy: Study calls for rethink of cause and treatment

Antiviral medications prescribed for Bell's palsy are no more effective than placebo, while corticosteroids offer significant benefits. The review suggests further research should focus on discovering alternative causes and treatments for the condition.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateOct 6, 2009

A woman in space

In the early 1960s, a Harvard-educated surgeon and US Air Force General proposed testing women in space due to their lighter weight, lower heart rate, and fewer reproductive system issues. A total of 19 women were enrolled, with 68% passing the tests, earning them the nickname 'Mercury 13'. The data from these women's physiological tes...

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalAJP Advances in Physiology Education·DateOct 6, 2009