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Science News Archive March 2006 - Page 3


Page 3 of 18

Loneliness linked to high blood pressure in aging adults

A University of Chicago study found that lonely individuals have significantly higher blood pressures than non-lonely people, even after accounting for other factors. The researchers discovered a strong link between loneliness and increased blood pressure in aging adults, with the greatest differences observed among older participants.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateMar 28, 2006

Helping mentally retarded children and adolescents

Mental retardation diagnosis is crucial for early intervention and management, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach to determine the level and kinds of supports needed. Effective care also involves promoting independence and providing ongoing health surveillance to address comorbid conditions.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalCurrent Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care·DateMar 28, 2006

Mega eruption of Yellowstone's southern twin

The Vilama Caldera's 8.4 million-year-old mega eruption is considered one of the world's largest known eruptions, emitting approximately 2000 cubic kilometers of pyroclastic material. The size and volume of the associated caldera put it among the world's largest known eruptions, differing from Yellowstone's three cataclysmic events.

Hopes raised for effectiveness of multiple sclerosis drug

A research team led by Bibiana Bielekova found that daclizumab increases the number of regulatory natural killer cells, which correlates with better treatment outcomes for MS patients. The study suggests that daclizumab may not damage the immune system but rather shifts its reaction from T-cells to natural killer cells.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2006

Coal-based jet fuel poised for next step

Researchers have developed a coal-based jet fuel, provisionally designated JP900, which produces almost the same Btu as conventional fuels. The fuel has improved flash point, lower viscosity, and higher smoke point, making it suitable for existing engines and interest both commercial and military users.

Asleep or awake we retain memory

Research shows brain activity persists and evolves with time after learning new information, integrating recent memories through dynamic processing. The findings challenge the idea that sleep is essential for strengthening memories.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 27, 2006

Sumatra megaquake defied theory

A massive earthquake off the coast of Sumatra challenged long-held assumptions about quakes and subduction zones. The Great Sumatra-Andaman earthquake surpassed a magnitude 9 threshold, which contradicts theory that such large quakes occur at subduction zones with young, fast-moving crust.

UC Berkeley study finds in utero arsenic exposure tied to lung disease and cancer in adults

A UC Berkeley study found that children born with high levels of in utero arsenic exposure have a significantly higher risk of developing lung diseases such as bronchiectasis and lung cancer. The study, which analyzed death certificates from Chilean cities, revealed a 46 times higher death rate from bronchiectasis and seven times highe...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateMar 27, 2006

Researchers find better prostate cancer indicators

A study by Mayo Clinic researchers identified 8 genes with significant under-expression and 3 with over-expression, strongly implicating them in prostate cancer development and progression. The findings suggest that these genes may serve as biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting prostate cancer, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 27, 2006