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Science News Archive January 2006


Page 1 of 13

APS Physics Tip Sheet #60

Scientists at Tel Aviv University build a system to create plasma fireballs similar to natural ball lightning, providing insight into the phenomenon. Meanwhile, researchers at Purdue University simulate how to make liquids drip from an opening even without gravity's tug, potentially leading to new applications for printing and microsca...

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 31, 2006

Equalizing the sexes

New research reveals the Drosophila homolog of the mammalian UNR protein as a co-factor required for SXL-mediated repression of msl-2 translation. This mechanism prevents dosage compensation in female cells, highlighting an essential role for the UNR protein in maintaining sex-specific regulation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 31, 2006

Studies examine associations between provider characteristics and mortality rates in ovarian cancer

Research found no significant association between hospital case volume and short-term mortality after ovarian cancer surgery. However, patients treated by gynecologic oncologists had the best outcomes and lowest mortality rates. Long-term outcomes were slightly more favorable for high-volume hospitals, but this difference was modest.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 31, 2006

Rural life isn't just little house on the prairie

A study on rural families in Michigan explores the challenges faced by wage-earning women due to economic restructuring, highlighting the importance of addressing child care needs and increasing access to secure employment with benefits. The research emphasizes the need for new education delivery modes to empower these populations.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalFamily Relations·DateJan 31, 2006

Words help deterimine what we see

Researchers found that language affects perception in the right half of the visual field, but not in the left. The study suggests that linguistic differences can sharpen visual distinctions in the right visual field.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2006

'Biobullets' fight harmful mussels

Biobullets, tiny microcapsules that release potassium chloride, have been developed to combat zebra mussels. The new method poses little threat to other marine animals and is faster than existing methods, making it a promising solution to the ongoing problem.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 31, 2006

Not all eating habits are made alike. Some routines may even be beneficial, new study says

A new study has found that people's eating habits are influenced by their previous meals, with breakfast having the strongest effect. The study suggests that instead of setting daily nutritional goals, focusing on multi-day goals can help individuals approach dinner with a different set of habits and improve overall clarity.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006

Ray of hope for vultures facing extinction

A new report finds that the drug meloxicam is safe for vultures and effective in treating livestock, providing a potential solution to combat diclofenac's devastating effects on vulture populations. The three endangered species of Asian vultures are critically close to extinction due to diclofenac use.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 30, 2006

Identifying the source of negative emotions greatly reduces their influence on unrelated decisions

Researchers found that different types of negative emotions trigger distinct preferences in decision-making. Anxiety prefers safer options with control, while sadness favors more rewarding and comforting choices. Even when the cause of negative emotions is known, decisions related to that cause can still be affected by the emotions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006

Dog owners hide the truth from shelters about their pets' behavioral problems

Researchers found that shelter dogs with behavioral issues were more likely to be reported as aggressive or fearful when owners believed their responses would be shared with staff. Honest owner assessments can help shelters identify troubled dogs and provide better care for both animals and potential adopters.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateJan 30, 2006