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Science News for March 16, 2004


Dioxin-receptor network identified

A team of researchers used yeast to elucidate the steps involved in the pathway that regulates vertebrate cell response to dioxin, identifying 54 genes with a significant influence on AHR response. The study reveals five discrete biochemical steps in the signaling pathway and identifies one previously undescribed nuclear step.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 16, 2004

Treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ varies widely in United States

The study found that 97.5% of patients with DCIS underwent surgery, but there is a wide variation in treatment approaches, including the use of mastectomy, radiation therapy, and axillary dissection. The incidence of DCIS increased by 73% between 1992 and 1999, highlighting the need for standardized treatment recommendations.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 16, 2004

Refuting Neandertal ancestry

A team of scientists has analyzed the largest sample of Neandertal and early human remains, concluding that Neandertals could not have made a significant genetic contribution to early modern humans. The study's findings challenge the theory of interbreeding between Homo sapiens and Homo Neanderthalensis.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 16, 2004

Fish oil supplements may contain flame retardants

A study by Miriam Jacobs and colleagues has found significant increases in flame retardant levels in cod liver oil supplements over the past four years. This is a growing concern due to the potential for these chemicals to contaminate the environment and human health, particularly through consumption of contaminated fish oils.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 16, 2004

How amphetamine affects the dopamine transporter

Researchers have discovered a chemical modification of the dopamine transporter that enables amphetamine-induced dopamine release. This finding may lead to the development of treatments for drug addiction by targeting this molecular mechanism.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 16, 2004

Challenging shrubland fire management

A study examining coastal and southern California shrublands found that fire hazard risk was relatively constant at 2.7% annually, contradicting the assumption that older vegetation fuels cause larger fires. Regional differences may contribute to these findings.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMar 16, 2004

'Male-killer' bacterium's genome is deciphered

Researchers have sequenced the complete genome of Wolbachia pipientis, a parasitic bacterium that targets male hosts, providing new insights into its biology and evolution. The discovery has potential applications in controlling insect pests and human/animal filariasis.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 16, 2004

'Shocking' research points to ways to protect technology

Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified patterns in electromagnetic fields caused by lightning strikes on tall structures, such as the CN Tower. This study provides crucial insights for designing protective measures, including enclosures for sensitive equipment and special diodes to prevent over-voltage.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Electrostatics·DateMar 16, 2004