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Science News for July 26, 2007


Can the tonsils influence oral HIV transmission?

Research suggests that tonsils may facilitate oral HIV transmission through their unique gene expression profiles, which include higher levels of immune function-related genes and lower levels of antiviral proteins. This makes the tonsil tissue more permeable to pathogens, increasing its vulnerability to infection.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJul 26, 2007

Hidden order found in a quantum spin liquid

Researchers have discovered a hidden magnetic order in a ceramic material that extends over chains of 100 atoms, with potential applications in quantum computing and information processing. The team found that the magnetic excitations can propagate long distances at low temperatures, but can be disrupted by defects or heat.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience·DateJul 26, 2007

Researchers create search engine to hunt molecules online

ChemxSeer is a search engine designed specifically for chemical formulae, allowing scientists to find relevant research on CH4 or methane without filtering out results about Channel 4. The tool identifies related chemicals with different formula representations and substructures, providing more accurate search results.

Presence of wolves allows aspen recovery in Yellowstone

A new study published in Biological Conservation shows that wolves are allowing aspen trees to recover in Yellowstone National Park for the first time in over 50 years. The presence of wolves is altering elk behavior, causing them to avoid browsing in certain areas where they feel vulnerable, leading to a significant reduction in elk b...

SourceOregon State University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJul 26, 2007

New clues to ozone depletion

A team of atmospheric chemists found high concentrations of halogens, including bromine and iodine oxides, which persist throughout the Antarctic winter. These chemicals cause substantial ozone depletion and form tiny particles that can impact local climate.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateJul 26, 2007

Live broadcasts

Researchers have developed a genetically modified mouse model using the ferritin reporter gene, enabling live cell imaging via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without additional substances. This breakthrough overcomes limitations in detecting signal changes in tissues, such as fetal development and the central nervous system.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 26, 2007

Opposites interfere

Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science observe oscillating interference pattern between two identical quantum particles, proving quantum theory's predictions. The particles' actions are inextricably tied due to entanglement, even when separated by distance.

JCI table of contents -- July 26, 2007

A study published in JCI found that bacteria residing in the gut boost immune response to tumors after total body irradiation, a common treatment for cancer. The researchers discovered that a specific population of bacteria plays a crucial role in augmenting the function of tumor-specific T cells and resulting in tumor regression.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 26, 2007

Killer electrons in space are now less mysterious

Scientists have gained new insights into killer electrons, which can damage satellites and pose a hazard to astronauts. The unique data collected during a geomagnetic storm revealed the mechanism behind their creation, with solar wind particles inducing undulations in Earth's magnetosphere.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 26, 2007

The inside dope

Scientists at the Weizmann Institute of Science have successfully implemented doping in molecular electronics, enabling the control of electronic properties in organic molecules. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of environmentally friendly and versatile electronic components.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 26, 2007