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Science News Archive February 2006 - Page 4


Page 4 of 15

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

UVa scientists hot on trail of therapies for deadly lung failure

Researchers at UVa Health System have identified a critical role of the CXCR2 receptor in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a leading cause of lung failure. The discovery opens new avenues for developing targeted therapies, including aerosol treatments that could potentially hit the lungs without compromising the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 21, 2006

Nanoscience study shows that quantum dots 'talk'

Researchers have successfully demonstrated that quantum dots can transfer energy in a "coherent" fashion when exposed to light, paving the way for potential optical quantum computing and medical imaging applications. This breakthrough could lead to faster and more efficient computers, as well as reduced heat generation.

SourceOhio University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 21, 2006

Sexual reproduction delays aging in a mammalian species

A new study found that breeding Zambian mole-rats lived up to 20 years and twice as long as non-breeding individuals. The researchers suggest this could be due to the species' eusocial lifestyle and pair-bonding habits, making it a valuable model organism for studying aging mechanisms.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 21, 2006

Genetic links among men who share surnames

A recent study by Turi King and colleagues found that men who share surnames are more likely to have similar Y chromosomes, suggesting a common ancestor within the past 20 generations. The research has implications for genealogy and forensic science, as it may enable surname prediction from DNA alone.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 21, 2006

High-status monkeys ignore the interests of riff-raff

A study found that high-status male macaques took longer to follow the gaze of other dominant monkeys compared to low-status individuals. The researchers suggest that testosterone levels in high-status males may suppress social vigilance, a trait often seen in low-status males.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 21, 2006

Birds that make teeth

Researchers discovered that modern birds can form teeth in embryonic stages with similar developmental positions to mammals. The talpid2 strain of chicken harbors a genetic change allowing this process.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 21, 2006

Undersea microbes active but living on the slow side

Researchers found a sizeable and active archaeal community in deep sediment layers using energy from breaking down methane molecules. These microbes live on the slow side, requiring less energy to maintain and taking longer to divide than expected.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2006

Commonly used drug may prevent fetal alcohol syndrome

Researchers discovered that nicotinamide can protect mice from brain cell death and behavioral abnormalities caused by alcohol exposure. The study suggests that taking the drug soon after drinking alcohol may prevent some of the damage to the developing fetus.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2006