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Science News for February 21, 2011


Increasing triglyceride levels linked to greater stroke risk

A 33-year study by Danish researchers found that higher non-fasting triglycerides are associated with greater stroke risk in both men and women. The study suggests that levels of non-fasting triglycerides should be included in stroke prevention guidelines, currently focused on total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateFeb 21, 2011

Hearing impairment common, perhaps preventable, chronic disease among middle-aged adults

Hearing impairment is a common condition among middle-aged adults, affecting up to 29 million Americans. The study found that cardiovascular disease risk factors and noisy occupations are associated with an increased likelihood of hearing impairment. Early detection and prevention may be possible if the condition is detected early.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateFeb 21, 2011

Plankton key to origin of Earth's first breathable atmosphere

Researchers studying the origin of Earth's first breathable atmosphere have found that ancient plankton played a critical role in providing oxygen. This discovery builds on earlier work that showed a reverse-greenhouse effect cooled the oceans, spawning giant plankton blooms and sending oxygen into the atmosphere.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2011

AAAS news briefs from UC Davis

Researchers at UC Davis are presenting innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, including electrification of vehicles and producing biofuels. The university is also exploring celestial superfluids, which offer potential breakthroughs in materials science and technology.

Lesbian moms vulnerable when abused, reluctant to seek help

A study by University of Illinois professors reveals that lesbian moms who experience intimate partner violence are often reluctant to seek help due to fear of losing custody. The researchers found that these women assume people are prejudiced against them and may try to solve the problem alone or hide their abuse from others.

JCI table of contents: Feb. 21, 2011

Researchers have discovered a new cellular mechanism underlying hydronephrosis, a common congenital defect in the kidney. They found that the Hedgehog signaling pathway controls the development of cells required for urine flow, and genetic mutations can impair this process. The study also suggests potential therapeutic targets and gene...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 21, 2011

Study shows rapamycin reverses myocardial defects in mouse model of LEOPARD syndrome

A new study reveals that rapamycin can reverse cardiac muscle damage in a mouse model of LEOPARD syndrome, a rare congenital heart disease. The research demonstrates the importance of targeted therapies in managing congenital diseases and offers a potential new treatment option for patients with LEOPARD syndrome.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 21, 2011

Cold winters mean more pollution

Researchers found a strong link between climate and air pollution in Gothenburg, where extreme cold air from Siberia leads to high nitrogen oxide concentrations. The study, published in Atmospheric Environment, shows that air quality standards were exceeded more frequently during negative NAO phases.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateFeb 21, 2011