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Science News Archive June 2011 - Page 28


Page 28 of 28

A pill to prevent migraine?

A gene discovery for migraine may lead to the development of a preventive pill that blocks the brain's pain channel. The discovery is significant as it opens understanding of the pain pathways that trigger migraine pain, sparking excitement among researchers and the pharmaceutical industry.

ASGE and SHEA issue updated multisociety guideline on reprocessing flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes

The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) have updated their 2003 joint guideline to ensure safe reprocessing of flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes. The guidelines emphasize the importance of high-level disinfection and standardized cleaning procedures.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 1, 2011

1 world, 1 sound

Linguist Mihailo Antovic's study reveals that children from diverse ethnic backgrounds can comprehend musical tones in a similar way. He hopes to prove this phenomenon is not unique to Serbia but rather a global understanding of music.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalMetaphor and Symbol·DateJun 1, 2011

3-D model mimics volcanic explosions

Researchers created a 3D model of Mount St. Helens' 1980 eruption to better understand pyroclastic density currents and their impact on terrain. The model accurately reproduced the blast's effects, revealing that gravity and terrain shape play key roles in determining damage zones.

SourcePenn State·JournalGeology·DateJun 1, 2011

Saliva is effective in screening for CMV infection in newborns, says NIH-funded research

A new screening method using newborn saliva has been shown to effectively identify CMV infection in newborns. The test achieved a sensitivity of 97.4% when dry samples were used, making it a promising tool for widespread screening programs. Researchers are now exploring the contribution of congenital CMV infection to overall hearing loss.

Keeping warm: Coordinated movements in a penguin huddle

Emperor penguins form coordinated waves to continuously change the huddle structure, allowing animals from outside to enter and warm up. The study's findings have been published in PLOS ONE, providing new insights into the survival techniques of Emperor penguins.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 1, 2011

Childhood abuse and migraine

A notable prevalence of childhood abuse in migraine patients has been observed, with experts suggesting that early abuse may create permanent changes in the neurobiological system. Researchers are exploring the idea that treatment with serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors may reverse some of these effects and decrease migraine pain.