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Science News for May 6, 2009


Treatment for extreme nausea, vomiting during pregnancy

A collaborative Canada-France study published in the European Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology found that metoclopramide worked faster to quell symptoms of nausea and vomiting than droperidol. The treatment protocol improved symptoms more quickly and provided a safer option for pregnant women.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalEuropean Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology·DateMay 6, 2009

Sleep apnea may not be closely linked to heart failure severity

A study published in Journal of Cardiac Failure found that obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea are prevalent in heart failure patients, with 47% experiencing moderate to severe breathing disorders. The prevalence was not decreased by beta-blockers and spironolactone treatment.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Cardiac Failure·DateMay 6, 2009

UCLA scientists reveal how deadly pediatric disorder develops in brain

Researchers have found a connection between Sanfilippo syndrome and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that new Alzheimer's drugs may provide therapy for the currently untreatable metabolic disorder. The study identified key proteins involved in the development of the disease, which could lead to effective treatment options.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2009

Insect gene expression responds to diet

Research on cabbage looper caterpillars reveals that dietary bacteria can alter gene expression in metabolism, homeostasis, and immunity. The insects' ability to fine-tune their natural defenses through gene regulation may provide a survival advantage.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateMay 6, 2009

Swine flu genes dissimilar to past pandemics

Researchers identified 34 genetic markers of influenza infection severity in past outbreaks but found only half of these markers in the current swine-flu strain. The study suggests that the current virus lacks many attributes making previous outbreaks deadly, but more studies are needed for firm conclusions

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Microbiology·DateMay 6, 2009

Superior entrepreneurial performance is not driven by technical knowledge

A new study published in Strategic Management Journal reveals that entrepreneurs' success is driven by their industry experience and contextual knowledge, rather than direct technical innovations from their former parent company. This understanding helps founders identify opportunities and develop products and services that meet market...

SourceWiley·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateMay 6, 2009

Babies brainier than many imagine

Researchers at Northwestern University found that infants as young as five months old can distinguish between liquids and solids based on movement cues. This suggests that babies are not blank slates but rather active learners who perceive the world in a similar way from infancy throughout life.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 6, 2009

UCSF study shows asthma self-management programs improve drug adherence, disease control

A UCSF study found that personalized self-management programs for asthma patients significantly improved medication adherence and disease control. The program, which included a 30-minute session with a healthcare professional, resulted in better health outcomes and reduced emergency department visits.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMay 6, 2009

UCSF study shows attitudes toward tobacco industry linked to smoking behavior

A new UCSF study found that negative attitudes towards the tobacco industry are associated with lower rates of smoking among young adults. The study, which surveyed 1,528 people aged 18-25, suggests that anti-tobacco advertising campaigns can be effective in reducing smoking rates by portraying the industry in a negative light.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 6, 2009

Minority groups pick up worst European eating habits

A recent study by Dr. Santosh Khokhar at the University of Leeds found that immigrant populations in Europe replace healthy components of their native diet with processed and fast foods, leading to higher levels of fat, salt, and sugar. Younger generations are particularly vulnerable to unhealthy eating habits, which can increase the r...

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateMay 6, 2009

AGU Journal highlights -- May 6, 2009

Recent studies analyze global warming trends, exploring decadal cooling periods and long-term climate change. Scientists also investigate recent solar radiation changes, finding complex mechanisms behind 'global dimming' and 'brightening.' Analysis of the Dust Bowl's atmospheric circulation reveals potential links to Midwest droughts.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 6, 2009

New evidence ties gene to Alzheimer's

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found a link between genetic variations in the neuroglobin gene and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The study, published in Neurobiology of Aging, suggests that lower levels of neuroglobin may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateMay 6, 2009