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Science News for December 30, 2002


Mathematical prediction of on-off switches in cell division proven

Researchers from Virginia Tech have validated a mathematical model of cell division using experiments on frog egg extracts. They found that the control system is bi-stable and hysteretic, requiring specific levels of cyclin to regulate mitosis.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2002

Predicting the movement of genes

A recent study uses sunflowers to predict the likelihood of genes from hybrid crops entering wild populations. The research found that domesticated crop genes can persist even when hybrids perform poorly, suggesting a challenge for controlling their spread.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateDec 30, 2002

In mutually beneficial relationship, slowest-evolving species gains upper hand

In mutualistic relationships, the slower-evolving species tends to gain a disproportionate share of benefits. This phenomenon, dubbed the Red King effect, is particularly pronounced when one side has little room to negotiate, forcing the other side to give up more if they want to continue the relationship.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2002
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New study ties moderate beer drinking to lower heart attack risk

A new study found that moderate beer drinking is associated with lower heart attack risk, as shown by decreased cholesterol levels, increased antioxidants, and reduced fibrinogen levels. The study also discovered structural changes in fibrinogen caused by beer consumption, which may serve as a new diagnostic indicator for heart attack ...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 30, 2002