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Science News for January 15, 2006


Drug cuts sleep apnea in heart failure patients

A double-blind study found that acetazolamide significantly improved patient perception of sleep quality and reduced daytime fatigue in heart failure patients with sleep apnea. The medication showed promise in reducing sleep-related breathing disorders, which may also improve cardiac function.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 15, 2006

Hispanic asthma rates highest among Puerto Ricans

A study examining asthma rates in Hispanics found that Puerto Ricans have the highest prevalence of asthma, with 31% of school children experiencing current wheezing. The study also found significant differences in asthma rates and disease severity among Hispanic subgroups.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 15, 2006

Researchers identify target for therapeutic drugs to fight most common adult brain cancer

Glioblastoma multiforme, the most common adult brain cancer, has a median survival of about one year after diagnosis. Researchers have identified EGFR as a target for therapeutic drugs, offering new hope for patients. The study found that targeting both mutant and normal EGFR can destroy brain cancer cells while sparing healthy ones.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 15, 2006

Weizmann Institute suggests that immune cells help to maintain cognition and brain cell renewal

The study found that T cells recognize brain proteins and recruit resident immune cells to fight off toxic substances, enabling neurogenic regions like the hippocampus to form new nerve cells. This process is linked to local immune activity and may play a role in maintaining learning and memory abilities in adulthood.