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Science News Archive 2006 - Page 111


Page 111 of 178

Water shortages in Northeast linked to human activity

A recent study found that factors such as development, population growth, and failing water supply systems contribute significantly to water emergencies in Rockland County, N.Y. The researchers' findings suggest that the balance between water demand and supply is becoming increasingly fragile due to human activities.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalJAWRA Journal of the American Water Resources Association·DateMay 17, 2006

The brain's executive is an 'event planner'

Researchers discovered that neurons in the lateral prefrontal cortex process information for future events to generate action plans, enabling monkeys to plan complex behaviors. The study provides new insights into the central function of behavioral planning in this higher brain region.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMay 17, 2006

One in 50 teenagers still wet the bed

A study of over 16,500 children aged 5-19 found that 1 in 50 teenagers still experience bedwetting. The researchers found that children with severe bedwetting problems are more likely to continue experiencing problems into adulthood. Mild bedwetting is more common among younger children, but severe problems increase with age.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalBJU International·DateMay 17, 2006

Trio of Neptunes and their belt

Three tiny companions orbiting HD 69830 have been discovered by astronomers using the ESO's HARPS instrument. The newly found planets have minimum masses between 10 and 18 times the mass of Earth, with one located in the habitable zone.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateMay 17, 2006

Dolphins at risk

A recent surge in dolphin deaths off the Zanzibar archipelago has sparked debate about pollution, underwater noise, and the impact of offshore industries. Dr. Jonathan David calls for mitigation measures to protect dolphin populations and suggests innovative solutions to minimize harm.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalWater and Environment Journal·DateMay 17, 2006

Bush's response to 9/11 mirrors Wilson era

The article examines how George W. Bush's response to 9/11 mirrored the diplomatic approach of President Woodrow Wilson during his era. The author, Lloyd E. Ambrosius, draws parallels between the two leaders' strategies, highlighting similarities in their use of international organizations and multilateral cooperation.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalDiplomatic History·DateMay 17, 2006

Targeting lung cancer

Researchers engineered mice with mutated EGFR genes that can be turned on or off to study lung tumorigenesis and treatment responses. Mutations in EGFR drive lung tumors into regression by inhibiting the gene or turning it off.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateMay 17, 2006

Fabled equatorial icecaps to disappear

The Rwenzori Mountains, home to one of four remaining tropical ice fields outside the Andes, are experiencing substantial reduction in glacial cover due to increasing air temperature over the last four decades. Glaciers are receding tens of meters each year, with less than one square kilometer of glacier ice remaining.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 17, 2006

Wal-Mart equals higher poverty rates

A recent study published in Social Science Quarterly reveals a link between Wal-Mart's expansion and increased poverty rates in local communities. The authors found that the arrival of large retail chains like Wal-Mart leads to the displacement of small businesses, resulting in reduced local leadership capacity.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalSocial Science Quarterly·DateMay 17, 2006

Broccoli, cauliflower and genetic cancer

A study published in Carcinogenesis reveals that sulforaphane, a compound in broccoli and cauliflower, can inhibit the development of hereditary colon cancer by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting tumor proliferation. The researchers found that mice fed with an SFN-supplemented diet developed significantly fewer and smaller tumors.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCarcinogenesis·DateMay 17, 2006

Chimpanzee study reveals genome variation hotspots

A recent study has identified copy number variants in chimpanzees that are comparable to those found in humans, indicating regions of the genome may be inherently unstable in both species. This research provides valuable insights into genetic diversity and adaptations in our nearest relatives.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2006

New study reveals signaling pathways required for expansion of pancreas stem cells

A new study discovered that BMP4 signaling is necessary and sufficient for the proliferation of pancreas progenitor cells, leading to an increase in Id expression. The researchers also found that inhibition of BMP4 results in a decrease in proliferating duct cells and an increase in the expression of a bHLH protein-dependent factor PAX6.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 16, 2006

Women's career choices influenced more by culture than biology

A study of 167 women in IT across four countries reveals that cultural factors, such as societal messages and family dynamics, play a significant role in shaping career choices. The research suggests that recognizing diversity may lead to more opportunities for women, and challenges traditional assumptions about work-life balance.

SourcePenn State·JournalInformation Resources Management Journal·DateMay 16, 2006

Intimate partner violence found widespread

A study by Group Health researchers found that intimate partner violence (IPV) affects nearly half of women, with recent IPV having a particularly devastating impact on their physical and mental health. The study also revealed that IPV is an equal-opportunity problem, affecting women from all walks of life.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 16, 2006