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Science News Archive January 2006 - Page 3


Page 3 of 13

Yale group to study atmospheric 'tsunamis'

Yale researchers will observe, describe, and explain severe atmospheric turbulence over mountains, focusing on 'gravity waves' that impact the stratosphere. The Terrain-induced Rotors Experiment (T-Rex) project aims to measure properties of whirlwinds formed in mountain ranges and monitor gravity wave behavior.

What causes chronic fatigue syndrome?

Research suggests that chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is influenced by multiple factors, including neuroticism, introversion, and genetics. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exercise therapy have been found to be effective in managing symptoms.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 26, 2006

Researchers map of genetic variations implicated in disease

A detailed study of the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) region reveals a region of stability that may have provided protection against infection and disease. The study found over 300 amino acid changing variants, strong candidates for functional studies to understand the role of variation in MHC-associated disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 26, 2006

Ethanol can replace gasoline with big energy savings, comparable impact on greenhouse gases

A recent study by UC Berkeley researchers suggests that ethanol can be a good substitute for gasoline, offering substantial energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The study analyzes six high-profile studies of ethanol and finds that producing ethanol from corn uses significantly less petroleum than producing gasoline.

Headache, sleep problems connected in children

A study of 100 children with chronic daily headache and 100 children with episodic headache found that sleep disturbance was a common issue in both groups. The researchers suggest that addressing sleep problems may help alleviate headaches and prevent the progression from episodic to chronic daily headache.

Trace the money

Researchers from Max Planck Institute used data from a popular internet game to analyze banknote movements, finding universal scaling laws that govern human travel behavior. These laws provide insight into the statistical rules governing the spread of diseases.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 2006

Study on hypertension indicates racial disparity among Hispanics

A recent study by Dr. Luisa Borrell at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health reveals a racial disparity in hypertension among Hispanics, suggesting that being Black within this ethnic group is associated with the highest prevalence of high blood pressure. The research highlights the importance of addressing health inequ...

Robot set loose to film your insides

A new robot system developed by Dmitry Oleynikov and colleagues enables surgeons to visualize the abdominal cavity using minimal incisions, allowing for less trauma and potentially reducing scars. The device is controlled from a console and can be inserted through small incisions, allowing for more flexibility in surgical procedures.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateJan 25, 2006

It's far, it's small, it's cool: It's an icy exoplanet!

Astronomers have discovered the first and only icy exoplanet that matches theoretical predictions for Solar System formation. OGLE-2005-BLG-390Lb orbits a small red star at an extremely close distance, with a surface temperature of -220°C, and is likely to resemble Pluto more than rocky planets like Earth.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 2006

Closer to home

The discovery of OGLE-2005-BLG-390Lb provides strong evidence that low-mass planets, potentially supporting life, are more common than Jupiter-like gas giants. Researchers hope the gravitational microlensing technique will reveal more habitable worlds in the Milky Way galaxy.

'To be or, or ... um ... line!'

A study by cognitive psychologists Helga Noice and Tony Noice found that actors acquire lines quickly by focusing on the character's intention, rather than just memorizing the words. This 'active experiencing' principle is effective not only for actors but also for improving memory and cognition in older adults.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJan 25, 2006

Master genetic switch found for chronic pain

Researchers found that the Runx1 gene is essential for the development and function of nociceptive sensory neurons, which are responsible for sensing pain. The study reveals that Runx1 regulates the specification of these neurons and their wiring, providing a genetic basis for chronic pain.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJan 25, 2006