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Science News Archive April 2008 - Page 7


Page 7 of 22

How much progress has there been in vaccinating against Hib in the Americas?

By the end of 2006, all countries in the Americas had included Hib vaccine in their immunization schedule. However, efforts are still needed to strengthen invasive bacterial disease surveillance and improve vaccination coverage. The successful introduction of Hib and pneumococcal vaccines could reduce global severe pneumonia burden by ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 21, 2008

Nasal surgery associated with improvements in quality of life for those with sleep apnea

For patients with obstructive sleep apnea and nasal blockages, nasal surgery is associated with significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life. The procedure led to notable reductions in snoring, daytime sleepiness, and overall health status, particularly in reducing role limitations caused by physical or emotional problems.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateApr 21, 2008

Biology of Reproduction highlights

Recent studies in Biology of Reproduction suggest that maternal follicular testosterone influences the sex of bovine embryos, while research on maternal cell microchimerism reveals its presence in major organs of healthy newborn mice. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind these phenomena.

SourceSociety for the Study of Reproduction·JournalBiology of Reproduction·DateApr 21, 2008

US sees decline in number of general surgeons

The number of general surgeons per 100,000 Americans has declined by over 25% since 1981, mainly due to an aging population and a lack of rural training opportunities. Rural areas are disproportionately affected, with urban areas experiencing a slightly greater decline.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateApr 21, 2008

Vitamin D and breast cancer risk

A study of 1,394 women found that those with low vitamin D levels had a significantly increased breast cancer risk. Carriers of certain polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor gene also showed an increased risk of developing breast tumors.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateApr 18, 2008

Ceramic, heal thyself

Researchers found that oxygen atoms in yttria-stabilized zirconia can heal radiation-induced damage by moving into pre-existing vacancies. This self-healing behavior could lead to the development of radiation-resistant materials, improving durability and reducing replacement costs. The simulation results also suggest that this ceramic ...

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Materials Research·DateApr 18, 2008

Major discovery in the treatment of aortic valve stenosis

A recent study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology has made a significant breakthrough in treating aortic valve stenosis, a common form of heart valve disease. The experimental treatment, which raises high-density lipoproteins (HDL), showed promising results, including reduced aortic valve narrowing and calcifications.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateApr 18, 2008

Geometry shapes sound of music

Researchers from Florida State University, Yale University, and Princeton University developed a new theory that analyzes music using geometry. The 'geometrical music theory' tool helps composers explore uncharted possibilities and musicians may be trained differently. It represents a culmination of the marriage between music and math.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2008

No place like home: Katrina's lasting impact

A study found that severe housing damage is a key factor behind socioeconomic disparities in psychological distress after Hurricane Katrina. The research also revealed that blacks were substantially more likely to experience serious psychological distress, with almost one-third reporting high levels of distress.