Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 22, 2006


UF scientists reveal ancient origin of vertebrate skeleton

Researchers found that lampreys, long thought to be evolutionary outliers, use the same essential protein to build cartilage as all other vertebrates, including humans. The discovery sheds light on the early origins of vertebrate skeletal development and challenges traditional views on vertebrate evolution.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2006

Researchers develop alternate method to dispose nuclear liquid waste

Researchers have developed a new method to dispose of nuclear liquid waste by solidifying and stabilizing high alkali, low-activity radioactive waste using hydroceramic materials. The resulting hydroceramic can tie up minor radioactive components in its zeolitic structure, providing a viable alternative for the Department of Energy.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateFeb 22, 2006

Efficacy of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may depend on level of osteoarthritis pain

A large-scale study found that glucosamine combined with chondroitin sulfate provided significant pain relief for participants with moderate-to-severe knee osteoarthritis pain, but not those with mild pain. The treatment was shown to be effective in reducing pain by 20% or more compared to placebo.

SourceNIH/National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2006

Children's self-esteem can affect their response to asthma

A study found that higher levels of self-esteem and problem-solving beliefs in urban, school-aged children with asthma helped counteract the negative effects of asthma and urban living. These factors were associated with fewer school absences, more participation in activities, and less missed sleep.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of School Health·DateFeb 22, 2006

Three new species of lemurs identified

Researchers have identified three new species of lemurs, expanding our knowledge of these endangered animals. The study, published in BMC Evolutionary Biology, uses genetic analysis to reveal distinct species characteristics, shedding light on the importance of conservation programs for lemurs native to Madagascar.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateFeb 22, 2006

Snakes poisoned at birth

A recent study published in Environmental Microbiology found that snakes become infected with Salmonella through exposure to contaminated environments, not just by eating contaminated food. The knowledge gained from this study can help prevent reptile-associated infections and inform safe handling practices for snakes and other pets.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateFeb 22, 2006

Learning and memory stimulated by gut hormone

A study by Yale University researchers found that ghrelin, a hormone produced in the stomach, has a powerful influence on the hippocampus, a brain region critical for learning and memory. This discovery suggests that a potential recommendation could be to limit children's breakfast intake to optimize morning learning hours.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 22, 2006

Hens' teeth not so rare after all

Researchers have found a naturally occurring mutant chicken called Talpid with a complete set of teeth, similar to those of crocodiles. The team successfully induced teeth growth in normal chickens by activating dormant genes, paving the way for potential applications in tissue regeneration and tooth replacement.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 22, 2006