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Science News Archive May 2009 - Page 18


Page 18 of 22

Patients with mild to moderate OSA may benefit from exercise

A recent study suggests that exercises can improve symptoms of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by promoting remodeling of the upper airways. After three months, patients in the exercise group showed significant improvements in oxygen saturation levels, snoring symptoms, and quality of sleep scores.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 7, 2009

New look at Facebook and grades

Researchers from Northwestern University found no evidence that Facebook use correlates with lower academic achievement. Instead, they suggest that the impact of social networking sites on students depends on how they are used, with cultivating relationships potentially leading to positive outcomes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalFirst Monday·DateMay 7, 2009

Global monsoon drives long-term carbon cycles in the ocean

A new review reveals that global monsoons have been driving the long-term cyclicity of oceanic carbon reservoirs for at least 600 million years. The study found a 400,000-year cycle related to the 'long eccentricity' of Earth's orbit, which is linked to changes in oceanic carbon reservoirs and has implications for climate prediction.

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateMay 7, 2009

Creating the astro-comb to locate Earth-like planets

Researchers at Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics have created an 'astro-comb' to help detect lighter planets around distant stars. The technique sharpens spectroscopy, enabling more accurate pinpointing of planet locations and opening possibilities for detecting more Earth-like planets.

SourceOptica·DateMay 7, 2009

Is dephytinization from infant cereals beneficial to the nutrition absorption?

The study found that dephytinization significantly increased mineral cell uptake efficiency, retention, and transport efficiency of iron and zinc. Calcium bioavailability also showed a significant increase after phytate removal from most samples. This research provides valuable insights for infant nutrition and mineral absorption.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 7, 2009

'Gecko vision': Key to the multifocal contact lens of the future?

Researchers have discovered a series of distinct concentric zones in gecko eyes that enable exceptional night vision, leading to potential advancements in camera technology and multifocal contact lenses. The study, published in the Journal of Vision, also introduces a new method for gathering optical data from live animals without harm.

OHSU researchers study the idling brain

Researchers use MRI to identify brain regions that activate while at rest, potentially leading to new diagnostic tools for ADHD and other mental health disorders. By analyzing brain activity in typically developing subjects versus those with disorders, the team aims to pinpoint distinct functional differences.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMay 7, 2009

Why silkworms find mulberries attractive

A new study reveals the source of silkworms' attraction to mulberry leaves is a jasmine-scented chemical called cis-jasmone. The potent attractant triggers a highly tuned olfactory receptor in the silkworms' antennae, guiding them towards the food source.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 7, 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