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Science News Archive March 2011 - Page 6


Page 6 of 28

How do plants fight disease?

Researchers have discovered how plant pathogens attack soybeans by reducing isoflavone production. Plants respond with a surge in isoflavone production, sparking a counterattack from the pathogen. This complex interaction may hold key to developing effective disease treatments and preventing crop losses.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 28, 2011

'Spicing' up your love life possible, study finds

A new scientific review of natural aphrodisiacs found that panax ginseng, saffron, and yohimbine improved human sexual function. The study also found that muira puama, maca root, and chocolate report increased sexual desire in people. However, their effects on sexual arousal and satisfaction are not supported.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalFood Research International·DateMar 28, 2011

Will we hear the light?

Researchers at the University of Utah discovered that invisible infrared light can activate rat heart cells and toadfish inner-ear cells, sparking potential breakthroughs in cochlear implants for deafness. The study also raises possibilities for optical pacemakers that use infrared signals instead of electrical signals.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMar 27, 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