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Science News for March 25, 2011


Large-scale assessment of the Arctic Ocean

The Arctic Ocean's freshwater content has risen significantly, with a 20% increase since the 1990s. This change affects global ocean circulation and heat exchange between the ocean and atmosphere. Researchers analyzed over 5,000 salt concentration profiles to determine this increase.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalDeep Sea Research·DateMar 25, 2011

Young asthmatics are leaving emergency rooms missing critical documentation

A study published in American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that a written action plan attached to the drug prescription improves asthma control in preschool-aged children. The provision of the plan significantly improved patient adherence to prescribed medications and physicians' recommendations.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 25, 2011

Research may lead to new treatments for Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders

A team of researchers at Marshall University has identified and analyzed unique adult animal stem cells that can transform into neurons, which could pave the way for novel therapies for slowly progressing diseases like Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis. The discovery is especially interesting as it involves using readily available and...

SourceMarshall University Research Corporation·JournalJournal of Cellular Physiology·DateMar 25, 2011

Study shows living at high altitude reduces risk of dying from heart disease

Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine found that people living at high altitudes have a lower chance of dying from ischemic heart disease and tend to live longer than others. Lower oxygen levels may spur genes to create blood vessels, reducing the risk of heart disease deaths.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMar 25, 2011

Inadequate diet can lead to anemia in postmenopausal women

A new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that inadequate nutrition is a significant risk factor for anemia in postmenopausal women. The study, which analyzed data from over 72,000 women, found that deficiencies in multiple nutrients were associated with a higher risk of persistent anemia.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateMar 25, 2011

FDA considers new rules to speed up confirmatory trials of drugs granted accelerated approval

The FDA is considering new rules to speed up confirmatory trials of drugs granted accelerated approval, following a review that found six indications remained on the market without confirmation. The median time between accelerated and regular approval was 3.9 years, with some drugs remaining on the market for over 10 years.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 25, 2011

Study finds weight training safe for pregnant women

A University of Georgia study found a supervised, low-to-moderate intensity weight-lifting exercise program to be safe and beneficial for pregnant women. The research showed that participants increased their strength without experiencing musculoskeletal injuries or significant changes in blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateMar 25, 2011

AACR honors eminent researchers

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is honoring two renowned cancer researchers, Helen Blau and Nathanael Gray, for their groundbreaking contributions to the field. Helen Blau's work on regenerative medicine and cellular plasticity has led to new approaches in modeling diseases and regenerating damaged tissues.