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Researchers Point to Role of Magnesium in Lessening BP WASHINGTON: Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have revealed how magnesium activates microscopic ion channels in the membrane of a cell. These particular ion channels are important in controlling blood pressure. The new finding can be used in the quest to understand how magnesium helps to decrease blood pressure and also treat heart failure and stroke, the researchers say. Calcium-activated potassium channels are important microscopic pathways in the cell membrane that relax the smooth muscle in a blood vessel, according to them. They also modify electrical impulses, which travel in nerve cells throughout the brain.
"Along with some other groups, we have discovered that when magnesium
is applied to calcium-activated potassium channels, these channels will
open. We know from literature that the opening of these channels can
reduce blood pressure," Cui added. The study was reported in the August
issue of Nature. Beer Equals Red Wine in Therapeutic Value, Says US Prof (Go To Top) WASHINGTON: A University of New England study says that drinking beer is as good for health as drinking red wine. Both help in reducing cholesterol and preventing cell death in the body. Says Professor Ken Watson, of the UNE's School of Biological, Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, who observed the effect of drinking on anti-oxidant levels in the blood, "Alcohol lowers bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. Moreover, the presence of anti-oxidants in the drink itself means that the beer is as good as red wine." Anti-oxidants
in wine, known as polyphenolics, are present in the seeds and skins
of grapes and are concentrated during fermentation. They act by "mopping
up" or "scavenging" free radicals, destructive forms of oxygen that
damage DNA and can lead to premature ageing and cell death. Scientist Claims to Produce Petrol from CO2 (Go To Top) TOKYO: A Japanese researcher has caused a big stir at an industrial chemistry conference by claiming to have mastered the technique of making fuel from greenhouse gases. Nakamichi Yamasaki of the Tokushima Industrial Technology Centre in Japan said at the industrial chemistry conference in New Brunwick, New Jersey, that he can make propane and butane at relatively low temperatures and pressures. While
his work still needs independent verification, if he can make even heavier
hydrocarbons, it might be possible to make petrol. It has carbon chains
that are between five and 12 atoms long - butane is four atoms long.
The work suggests the tantalising prospect that CO2, the main greenhouse
gas, could be recycled instead of being pumped into the atmosphere,
says a report in New Scientist. |
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