February 12, 2008:
Israeli researchers
have found a way to improve blood flow, and alertness, for pilots flying long
hours at high altitude. These low pressure environments induce drowsiness and
inattention, which can be fatal for a fighter pilot. The new Israeli method
employs the same active ingredient that is used in Viagra, a prescription
recreational drug that cures impotence. For pilot applications, the chemical
composition of Viagra will have to be tweaked to curb its main effect, which
could be distracting for a fighter pilot in combat.