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Science News for April 16, 2002


Study of vision disorder leads to discovery of new family of ion channels

A new family of chloride ion channels has been identified in humans, which causes hereditary eye disorders. The discovery was made by a team of researchers at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and found at least three other members of this channel family in humans, four in fruit flies, and 24 in the worm Caenorhabditis elegans.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2002

Does weather play a role in stroke?

Researchers found different weather patterns linked to specific stroke sub-types, with warmer seasons reducing ischemic strokes from large arteries. Additionally, temperature drops five days prior and higher air pressure and humidity increased overall strokes and those caused by blockage of large arteries in the brain or heart.

Other highlights in the April 17 issue of JNCI

A new study has found that women with the highest levels of sex hormones are at roughly twice the risk of developing breast cancer compared to those with lower levels. Additionally, researchers have discovered a potential therapy for glioblastomas using a fusion protein that shows little toxicity. Reproductive hormones have also been l...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 16, 2002

Causes of menstrual migraine explored

A study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's annual meeting found that cortical spreading depression, a brain event linked to migraines, affects specific genes. Researchers identified two peptides influencing blood vessel activity and pain control, which may be related to menstrual migraine attacks.

Massive weather study heads for the skies and roads of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas

A massive weather study is underway in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, using six aircraft and 30 ground sensors to track water vapor and predict heavy rain. The IHOP2002 project aims to improve forecasts from 1 to 12 hours ahead of heavy rain, which could help in flash-flood safety and other applications.