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Science News for October 5, 2006


JCI table of contents: Oct. 5, 2006

Researchers discover RELM-beta's role in IBD, finding it activates macrophages to produce pro-inflammatory factors. Additionally, antibodies against BP180 cause blister formation in mice by activating the classical complement pathway.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 5, 2006

Child custody with abusive ex-spouse? Study shows how women decide

A University of Illinois study explores how abused women decide on child custody arrangements, revealing the complex interplay between fear, practical considerations, and family ideology. The research highlights the need for tailored interventions to address the unique needs of parents with histories of violence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateOct 5, 2006

microRNA function in neurogenesis

Researchers found that microRNA-9a regulates neural development in fruit flies, controlling the precise production of sensory organ precursor cells. mir-9a also represses transcription factor Senseless to regulate neuronal precursor cell numbers in Drosophila and potentially in mammalian neurogenesis.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 5, 2006

Driving diversification

Researchers at UCSF discover spineless gene's role in controlling dendritic branching patterns in fruit fly neurons. The findings suggest the gene may convert primordial patterns for different neuron types, potentially contributing to neurological disorders like autism.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 5, 2006

Researchers develop technologies to devour food pathogens

Researchers have developed a laser-based technology that can rapidly detect and identify many types of bacteria, making it three times faster and one-tenth as expensive as current methods. A second innovation uses chlorine dioxide gas to kill pathogens on produce, offering a highly effective and efficient solution.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateOct 5, 2006