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Science News for June 8, 2004


Biogeosciences.org launches

The new web site features a discussion forum, image gallery, and interviews with prominent researchers discussing the state of the science. It also includes information on degree programs, funding opportunities, and conferences, making it a valuable resource for biogeoscience enthusiasts and professionals.

Nanotechnology pioneer slays 'grey goo' myths

A new paper by Chris Phoenix and K. Eric Drexler argues that self-replication is not necessary for building an efficient molecular manufacturing system, contrary to previous understanding. Instead, simple robot-arms in larger factories are a more practical solution.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNanotechnology·DateJun 8, 2004

National study shows 82 percent of U.S. homes have mouse allergens

A recent study by Cohn et al. found that 82 percent of U.S. homes contain mouse allergens, with kitchen floors being the most contaminated area. The study, conducted across the entire country, highlights the need for clinicians to consider rodent and cockroach problems as risk factors when treating allergy and asthma patients.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 8, 2004

Need sex? It's probably something about stress

In Volvox carteri, colonies become sexual when exposed to high temperatures, releasing pheromones to guarantee mating partners. This response is linked to the activation of the sex-inducer gene, which promotes the production of a pheromone in reaction to increased oxidants produced by free radicals.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London·DateJun 8, 2004

Patients not sticking to cholesterol drugs -- and the higher their co-pay, the lower their use

Nearly half of patients prescribed statins fail to fill their prescriptions often enough or stop taking the drug altogether due to high out-of-pocket costs. Co-pay levels above $20 increase the likelihood of non-adherence, with four times more patients stopping medication when co-pays exceed $20 compared to those under $10.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 8, 2004