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Science News for March 23, 2005


AGU Journal highlights - 23 March 2005

Researchers found that volcanic eruptions produce a relatively short atmospheric response with no discernible effects from the volcanic events afterward. Additionally, analysis using climate models suggests that the North Atlantic Oscillation may intensify with further increases in greenhouse gas concentrations.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 23, 2005

It's a taxing time for air travelers, researchers from MIT, Daniel Webster College discover

Researchers from MIT and Daniel Webster College found that the effective tax rate on airline tickets is steadily increasing, with passengers facing a 19% average tax on top of ticket prices. The study suggests that airlines cannot raise airfares to keep pace with inflation, while taxpayers may be subsidizing security costs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Air Transport Management·DateMar 23, 2005

Beyond lithium for bipolar disorder

Scientists have identified several genes that appear to be switched on by lithium, which may lead to the development of more effective treatments for bipolar disorder. The study found that one gene, GPR88, is associated with a rat model of mania and codes for an orphan receptor that could potentially target dopamine signaling.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMar 23, 2005

Harvard, Texas A&M scientists develop new laser

Researchers have created a novel Raman laser that combines the pump source and material into a single device, enhancing efficiency by 30% and reducing size. The 'matryoshka' design enables tuning of the pump laser radiation to strong electronic resonance in the material, boosting gain by five orders of magnitude.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature·DateMar 23, 2005