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Science News for November 6, 1998


Towards The Origin Of Brittleness And Ductility

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Metals Research have identified two temperature-dependent mechanisms controlling the brittle-to-ductile transition in materials. Dislocation mobility dominates fracture toughness above a characteristic temperature, whereas dislocation nucleation controls fracture toughness below this temperature.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateNov 6, 1998

EMAP II: A Cytokine Regulated By Apoptosis

Scientists found that apoptosis induces the processing of EMAP II precursor protein, releasing a biologically active form that recruits macrophages. This process is crucial for tissue remodelling and coordinating cell death during embryonic development.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 6, 1998

New Study Offers A Twist On Evolution Of Animal Postures

A new Ohio University study reveals that alligators evolved from semi-erect to sprawl postures, contrary to the conventional theory of animal posture evolution. Researchers analyzed alligator movement and found that their walking patterns are more similar to those of salamanders and lizards than previously thought.

SourceOhio University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateNov 6, 1998

Amnesia After Sex: More Than A Washington Phenomenon

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that bearing down hard during sex can cause transient global amnesia, a temporary inability to form new memories. The study found two cases of men experiencing confusion and amnesia after sex, linked to the Valsalva maneuver and sympathetic nervous system activation.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 6, 1998