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Science News Archive 2009 - Page 35


Page 35 of 277

Faulty body clock may make kids bipolar

Research found four alterations in RORB gene associated with pediatric bipolar disorder, linking circadian rhythm abnormalities to the condition. The study suggests that clock genes may be important candidates for further investigation into bipolar disorder's molecular basis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateNov 11, 2009

Energy-saving powder

Researchers at Max Planck Institute create a novel catalyst that efficiently converts methane to methanol, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. The breakthrough could help address global natural gas shortages and support the chemical industry.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 11, 2009

Why can't chimps speak?

A UCLA/Emory study discovered significant differences between the human and chimp versions of the FOXP2 gene, which may explain why humans developed language while chimps did not. The research provides insight into the evolution of the human brain and may lead to new drug targets for disorders characterized by speech disruption.

Exoplanets clue to sun's curious chemistry

Astronomers have discovered that Sun-like stars with planetary systems tend to have lower levels of lithium than those without planets. The study, which analyzed 500 stars, found that planet-bearing stars had less than 1% of the lithium present in other similar stars.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateNov 11, 2009

New brain findings on dyslexic children

Research from Northwestern University's Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory confirms that children with developmental dyslexia have trouble tuning into relevant auditory signals. The study suggests that poor readers who struggle with processing sound in noisy environments may benefit from simple strategies to enhance their listening skills.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuron·DateNov 11, 2009

A motley collection of boneworms

Researchers have discovered up to 15 species of boneworms in Monterey Bay, which feed on dead whales and exhibit unique life cycles. The worms' ability to adapt to different environments and find food sources has led scientists to estimate their evolutionary origins, suggesting they may date back to the time of dinosaurs.

Scientists decipher the formation of lasting memories

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a mechanism that controls the brain's ability to create lasting memories. The study found that signalling via the nogo receptor 1 plays a key part in this process, enabling the conversion of short-term memories into long-term ones.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2009

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents associated with higher risk of venous thromboembolism

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that erythropoiesis-stimulating agents increase the risk of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients. The use of these agents, approved to reduce blood transfusions during chemotherapy, may outweigh benefits due to associated risks.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 10, 2009

Skunk's strategy not just black and white

Researchers found that skunks' distinctive black-and-white coloration is not enough to deter predators, but rather it's the combination of color and body shape. In areas where skunks are common, predators avoid animals with similar shapes or colors, highlighting a stronger learning component in prey recognition.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateNov 10, 2009

A pain in the neck

Research by Temple University's Judith Gold suggests that excessive texting among college students can lead to neck and shoulder pain, a condition typically associated with prolonged computer use. The study uses infrared cameras and motion analysis to track the body's position during texting simulations.

Gender-based pay gaps among US faculty

A new study published in Psychology of Women Quarterly found a significant gender-based pay gap among US faculty members, with women earning an average of 30% less than men. The study analyzed salaries at a large American university and controlled for factors such as education level, experience, and rank.

SourceWiley·JournalPsychology of Women Quarterly·DateNov 10, 2009

Foreign subtitles improve speech perception

A new study found that foreign subtitles can enhance second-language listening ability, particularly when the subtitles are in the same language as the film. English subtitling was associated with improved recognition of both familiar and unfamiliar words, while Dutch subtitling reduced this effect on new materials.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 10, 2009

Warm-blooded dinosaurs worked up a sweat

A study suggests that many dinosaurs were probably endothermic, athletic animals due to their high energy requirements during walking and running. This trait may have enabled them to thrive in various habitats, including colder regions, allowing them to cover the entire Mesozoic landscape.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 10, 2009

Implications of past forecasting errors often underestimated

Researchers found that managers tend to downplay the significance of their past forecasting mistakes when predicting future earnings. This underestimation can influence how investors respond to new forecast announcements, contributing to persistent price drift after an earnings announcement. Further study is needed to determine if this...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Business Finance &amp Accounting·DateNov 10, 2009