Recovery from brain injury and better sleep go hand in hand
A new study shows that recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) and improving sleep quality occur in parallel. As patients regained consciousness, their sleep-wake cycles also improved.
Sleep
Articles tagged with Sleep
Genetics link sleep disturbance with restless legs syndrome, schizophrenia and obesity
A team of scientists has identified genetic connections between sleep disturbance and a range of medical disorders, including restless legs syndrome, schizophrenia, and obesity. The study found novel genetic links with insomnia symptoms, as well as associations with schizophrenia risk, measures of obesity, and abnormal glucose metabolism.
Ring-tailed lemurs: Going, going, gone?
A new study found that ring-tailed lemur populations have declined significantly due to habitat destruction and hunting, with only three sites containing more than 200 individuals. The species is ecologically adaptable but many other lemurs in Madagascar are also in dire straits.
Smartphones could be game-changing tool for cardiovascular research, Stanford study shows
A new Stanford study utilizes smartphones to collect data on individuals' physical activity patterns, heart rate, and other cardiovascular metrics. The study found that not just the amount of activity matters but also the pattern, with those who were active throughout the day reporting better levels of cardiovascular health.
Switching to daylight saving time may lead to harsher legal sentences
A study published in Psychological Science found that judges in the US tend to give defendants longer sentences on Mondays following daylight saving time transitions. The researchers analyzed data from 1992-2003 and discovered a consistent trend of harsher sentencing, suggesting that sleep deprivation may influence legal decisions.
Review suggests that teens benefit from later high school start times
A review of 18 studies found that later high school start times are associated with longer weekday sleep durations and reduced vehicular accident rates. This suggests that moving school start times later may help teens get more sleep and have fewer motor vehicle accidents.
Smartphone apps may help study cardiovascular health, behaviors
The study found that large-scale data can be gathered in real time from mobile devices, stored securely, and transferred. State transition patterns of activity, not just absolute activity, relate to the reported presence of disease.
Sleep helps process traumatic experiences
A study by the University of Zurich found that sleep after a traumatic event can significantly reduce recurring emotional memories and distress. This non-invasive approach may provide an important early prevention strategy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
New study to investigate role of sleep in chronic pain
A Washington State University-led study explores the relationship between sleep and chronic pain, with the goal of developing new treatments. The research aims to understand which comes first: pain or poor sleep, and whether improving sleep can alleviate pain symptoms.
Portions of the brain fall asleep and wake back up all the time, Stanford researchers find
Researchers found that brain cells in specific columns cycle independently between active and inactive states during both sleep and wake. This cycling is linked to improved attention and response to external stimuli.
Electro-acupuncture for disrupted sleep in women with breast cancer
A study published by The Menopause Society confirms electro-acupuncture's effectiveness in reducing hot flash severity and improving sleep quality in breast cancer survivors. Electro-acupuncture has been shown to affect neurotransmitters associated with sleep, such as serotonin and melatonin.
How to protect your laptop -- even when it's asleep
Researchers at Concordia University have designed a new software solution called Hypnoguard to safeguard laptop data while the computer is in sleep mode. The system uses encryption and password-based authentication to protect critical data from unauthorized access.
Study suggests that parental health behaviors may influence children's sleep
A new study found that parental confidence in helping children get enough sleep is positively associated with child sleep duration. Additionally, higher parent sleep duration was also linked to increased child sleep duration, suggesting that addressing insufficient sleep among children may require family-based interventions.
Protein and salt drive post-meal sleepiness
Scientists have found that protein and salt in food can drive post-meal sleepiness in fruit flies, leading to longer naps. The study used a system to measure feeding and sleeping behaviors of individual flies, revealing that larger meals result in longer sleep periods.
Scripps Florida scientists find surprising answers to 'food coma' conundrum
Researchers discovered that flies slept more after consuming larger meals, with protein and salt promoting sleep. The study suggests that 'food coma' might be a natural adaptation to maximize gut absorption of essential nutrients.
Strange bedfellows: Dangerous link between driver distraction and sleepiness
Research by QUT's Centre for Accident Research & Road Safety - Queensland found that driver distraction and sleepiness account for approximately 25% and 20% of road crashes respectively. Younger drivers are more vulnerable to these risks due to their developing sleep-wake systems.
Short and poor quality sleep may have negative effects on kidney function
Research found that short and poor quality sleep were associated with a lower risk of developing kidney failure, while higher sleep fragmentation increased the risk. Patients who experienced daytime sleepiness also had a higher risk of death during follow-up.
Solving the riddle of putrid camel pee could aid millions affected by sleeping sickness
Biochemists from Trinity College Dublin have discovered indolepyruvate, a metabolic by-product of trypanosome activity, which may offer possibilities for developing anti-trypanosome drugs. Inhibiting its production could be key in fighting the parasite, which causes sleeping sickness and kills millions in sub-Saharan Africa.
Increased smartphone screen-time associated with lower sleep quality
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found a significant association between increased smartphone screen-time and lower sleep quality. Over 650 adult participants recorded their daily screen-time using a smartphone application, revealing that longer screen-time periods were linked to poorer sleep quality and less sleep overall.
New findings on physical activity could shape treatment for mild Alzheimer's disease
Researchers found people with early Alzheimer's disease have different daily patterns of activity than those without the disease, spending less time in moderate-intensity activities. Customized interventions targeting morning physical activity may help improve sleep and slow cognitive decline.
Mismatched light and heat levels can disrupt body clock
A new UCL study found that mismatched light and heat levels can cause major disruptions to body clock function, leading to behavioral changes and molecular signals. The research suggests that a moderate time lag between light and temperature causes the clock to break down, with significant effects on behavior.
Brown researchers developing new interactive sleep app
Researchers at Brown University have developed a new interactive sleep app, SleepCoacher, that uses sleep analytics to provide personalized recommendations. The app guides users through self-experiments to find the most effective recommendations for improving their sleep.
Bedtime use of media devices more than doubles risk of poor sleep in children
A Cardiff University study found that bedtime screen use increases poor sleep duration by over double, impacting quality as well. Sleep disturbance in childhood is linked to various health issues, including obesity, mental health concerns, and stunted growth.
Are bedtime access, use of portable devices associated with poor sleep?
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found a consistent association between bedtime media device use and inadequate sleep quantity, poor sleep quality, and excessive daytime sleepiness in children. Children who had access to but didn't use media devices at night also experienced similar sleep problems.
Bedtime use of media devices more than doubles the risk of poor sleep in children
A new study reviewing 20 existing studies found that bedtime use of media devices increases the likelihood of inadequate sleep quantity, poor sleep quality, and excessive daytime sleepiness. The presence of a media device in the bedroom also affects sleep, even without use.
Cognitive behavioral therapy effective for older people with insomnia
A new CBTI treatment program using trained 'sleep coaches' significantly improved sleep quality in older adults. Participants took less time to fall asleep, woke up fewer times, and reported better overall sleep quality.
Study finds that sleep apnea therapy has positive impact on hypertensive patients
A new study found that positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy for sleep apnea significantly improves patient-reported outcomes in hypertensive patients, including reduced daytime sleepiness, depressive symptoms, and fatigue severity. The study also showed consistent improvement even in resistant hypertension cases.
AAP announces new safe sleep recommendations to protect against SIDS
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends sharing a bedroom with parents but on separate surfaces, avoiding soft bedding and exposure to smoke, alcohol, and illicit drugs. The updated policy also emphasizes skin-to-skin care and breastfeeding for added protection against SIDS.
Shelter dogs that rest more during the day may show signs of improved welfare
A study published in PLOS ONE found that shelter dogs spending more time resting during the day displayed better behavioral signs of well-being and performed better on a food reward test. The researchers suggest setting aside quiet time for dogs to rest may be beneficial for their welfare.
Brain's biological clock stimulates thirst before sleep
A study by McGill University researchers found that the brain's biological clock regulates thirst in the hours leading up to sleep. By stimulating vasopressin release, the clock anticipates dehydration and increases water intake.
Management of fatigue and sleep in chronic illness
The UMass Nursing UManage Center aims to develop technologies to help people with chronic illness manage fatigue and impaired sleep. The center will test wearable devices to monitor fatigue or sleep pattern changes, enabling patients to make informed decisions about their health activities.
Jetlag is given the swerve by adjusting meal times on the ground, find researchers
Researchers at the University of Surrey have found that meal times play a crucial role in resetting the body clock for long-haul cabin crew. By eating regular meals on their days off, crew members can alleviate symptoms of jetlag and improve their overall well-being.
An appetite suppressant with side effects
Researchers identify peptide allatostatin A in Drosophila that regulates feeding behavior and promotes sleep, with effects comparable to human galanin receptor. The study provides insights into the complex interactions of hunger, sleep and digestion.
Nighttime hot flashes may spark mild depression
A new study found that women who experience frequent nighttime hot flashes and sleep disruption are more likely to exhibit mild symptoms of depression. The researchers suggest menopausal women should be screened for mood disturbances, incorporating efforts to address sleep and nighttime hot flashes.
Prescription sleep aids carry a rare suicide risk, review finds
A review of published studies and FDA reports found that prescription sleep aids can stimulate patients instead of calming them, leading to a rare but serious risk of suicide. The main concern is the first few days after taking the medication, when a paradoxical response is most likely to arise.
Study finds that CPAP therapy reduces acid reflux in people with sleep apnea
A new study suggests that CPAP therapy may help improve nocturnal gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The mean heartburn score decreased by 62 percent among sleep apnea patients who were adherent to CPAP therapy.
Brain circuit that drives sleep-wake states, sleep-preparation behavior is identified
Stanford researchers have identified a key brain circuit that regulates both sleep-wake cycles and the reward system, providing potential new therapeutic avenues for insomnia and other disorders. The discovery sheds light on how dopamine plays a crucial role in these processes.
Sleeping brain's complex activity mimicked by simple model
A new mathematical model has successfully reproduced complex brain activity during deep sleep, revealing its role in memory consolidation. The thalamocortical coupling is crucial for this process, according to the researchers.
Disruptions to sleep patterns lead to an increased risk of suicides
Research identifies three pathways where sleep problems contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, including heightened risks at night and prolonged failure to achieve good sleep. The study emphasizes the need for nighttime service provision and restored healthy sleep in relation to coping with mental health problems.
UCI-led study finds novel molecular clues behind nocturnal behavior
A UCI-led study found novel molecular clues behind nocturnal behavior, suggesting the eyes play a more central role in controlling the sleep/awake cycle. The research challenges the long-presumed master role of the suprachiasmatic clock in determining sleep and wakefulness patterns.
Lousy jobs hurt your health by the time you're in your 40s
A nationwide study found that job satisfaction in late 20s and early 30s has a significant impact on mental health by the time individuals reach their 40s. Those with consistently low or declining job satisfaction tend to experience poorer mental health, including depression, sleep problems, and excessive worry.
Sleep makes relearning faster and longer-lasting
New research finds that taking breaks to sleep between study sessions can improve recall of previously learned information, allowing participants to relearn faster and retain what they've forgotten for longer periods. The study showed significant benefits in memory retention even after 6 months.
When you don't feel valued in a relationship, sleep suffers
A recent study published in Social Personality and Psychological Science found that individuals with responsive partners experience lower anxiety and arousal, leading to improved sleep quality. Responsive social partners provide feelings of safety and security, crucial for high-quality uninterrupted sleep.
Wearable device for sleep optimization could decrease new PTSD cases in military
A wearable neurotechnology device has been shown to improve sleep quality and lower the risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military personnel. The study, published recently, found that sleep improvement may be a strategic approach to reducing new-onset cases of PTSD in service members deployed to combat zones.
No blue light, please, I'm tired -- light color determines sleepiness versus arousal in mice
A study published in PLOS Biology found that green light puts mice to sleep quickly, while blue light stimulates them. The researchers suggest that light may play a similar alerting role in mice as it does in humans, with implications for designing the lighting of the future.
The rain frog that turned into a Sleeping beauty is a new species from the Peruvian Andes
A new species of rain frog, named Sleeping beauty rain frog, has been discovered in the Peruvian central Andes. The frog features bright red coloration on its groins, shanks, and thighs, distinguishing it from other related frogs.
Plenty of light during daytime reduces the effect of blue light screens on night sleep
Researchers found that daytime bright light exposure reduces the negative impact of evening blue light screen use on sleep. The study, published in Sleep Medicine, involved young adults who used self-luminous tablets for two hours after a day of outdoor activities or office lighting.
Economic burden of undiagnosed sleep apnea in US is nearly $150 billion per year
A new analysis reveals the economic burden of undiagnosed sleep apnea in the US, with estimated annual costs including $86.9 billion in lost productivity and $30 billion in increased healthcare utilization. Treatment for sleep apnea can improve patient health and quality of life.
Researchers discover Sandman's role in sleep control
Researchers discovered that ion channel Sandman plays a critical role in sleep control. When dopamine levels increase, Sandman moves outside the cell, effectively shutting down sleep-control neurons and leading to wakefulness.
No dream: Electric brain stimulation during sleep can boost memory
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine used transcranial alternating current stimulation to target sleep spindles and strengthen memory in healthy individuals. The study found significant improvements in motor tasks but no improvement in associative word-pairing tests.
Hot news flash! Menopause, insomnia accelerate aging
UCLA studies find that menopause speeds up cellular aging by an average of 6 percent, making women biologically older than their chronological age. Insomnia also accelerates aging, with postmenopausal women experiencing nearly two years more biological aging due to five insomnia symptoms.
Prevalence of diagnosed sleep disorders has risen among US veterans
A six-fold increase in diagnosed sleep disorders among US veterans has been reported, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experiencing the largest rate increases. The study found that veterans with cardiovascular disease or other chronic conditions also experienced higher rates of sleep disorder diagnoses.
Early preschool bedtimes cut risk of obesity later on
A new study from The Ohio State University College of Public Health found that preschoolers who are regularly tucked into bed by 8 p.m. are far less likely to become obese teenagers than young children who go to sleep later in the evening. Bedtimes after 9 p.m. appeared to double the likelihood of obesity later in life.
Early preschool bedtimes cut risk of obesity later on
Preschoolers who go to bed by 8 p.m. are half as likely to become obese teenagers as those who turn in late, according to a study from The Ohio State University College of Public Health. Establishing an early bedtime routine can also have positive benefits on behavior and cognitive development.
King penguins keep an ear out for predators
Research reveals that king penguins can distinguish between dangerous and benign sounds while sleeping on the beach. They react with alarm to predator calls, but not to unfamiliar sounds like a dog's growl.
Both limited and excess sleep may raise diabetes risk in men
A new study found that both limited and excess sleep may raise diabetes risk in men, with those sleeping too much or too little having impaired glucose metabolism. In contrast, women who slept less or more than average were more responsive to insulin and had enhanced beta-cell function.
Educating parents on healthy infant sleep habits may help prevent obesity
Researchers found that teaching parents bedtime techniques can improve infants' sleep-related behaviors, leading to longer sleep duration and reduced rapid weight gain. Establishing good sleep habits early in life is crucial for preventing obesity and promoting emotional health.
Adolescent sleep duration is associated with daytime mood
A new study found that adolescents who get insufficient sleep experience increased variability in sadness, anger, and energy levels. Healthy teens who restrict their sleep have worse moods the next day, while those with higher daily mood scores predict poor sleep quality the following night.
Alcohol dependent individuals show greater risk of suicide in evening hours
Researchers found that alcohol-dependent individuals experience a peak incidence of suicide in the evening hours and a low at dawn. The study suggests that this circadian pattern may help identify patients at higher risk of completing suicide.
New study shows nighttime sleep-aid helps people experiencing occasional sleeplessness
A new study demonstrates that an over-the-counter sleep aid can help people with occasional sleeplessness achieve significantly better sleep. The study found that the liquid product ZzzQuil helped participants fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and report better quality of sleep.