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Science News for March 2, 2007


A key to male fertility

Scientists at IGBMC have identified SHP protein as a major player in controlling testosterone synthesis and differentiation of germ cells in mouse testes. Mice without SHP protein reproduced earlier than controls, suggesting its role in regulating sexual maturity.

SourceCNRS·JournalGenes & Development·DateMar 2, 2007

Quantum effects make the difference

Scientists have discovered a new phase transition in metal YbRh2Si2 at absolute zero, revealing additional changes to electronic properties. This study extends our understanding of phase transitions and is relevant to complex systems like high-temperature superconductors.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2007

Heatwave on the top of the world

Researchers from French and international institutions have discovered that global warming has also affected the ice cap on Mount Everest. By analyzing air bubbles trapped in ice cores, they found a marked decrease in gas content in 20th-century ice, indicating recent increases in summer melts.

SourceCNRS·JournalClimate of the Past·DateMar 2, 2007

Delicate relation between single spins

Researchers access interaction between single magnetic adatoms on a metal surface by comparing experimental results with detailed theoretical analysis. They observe novel magnetic state for chain of three cobalt adatoms and improve understanding of fundamental interactions between single spins.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 2, 2007

Physicists reveal water's secrets in journal Science

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new method to simulate the hidden properties of water, resolving long-standing ambiguities in its structure and behavior. The study uses quantum mechanics to predict the properties of liquid water, opening up new avenues for understanding its applications in various fields.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2007

Outcomes for patients with hepatitis B who need liver transplants

The study found that survival rates for patients with hepatitis B who need liver transplants are similar between those with and without hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite the higher likelihood of transplantation, 5-year survival rates were comparable between the two groups. The findings suggest that antiviral therapy may have bene...

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateMar 2, 2007

Hot tubs hurt fertility, UCSF study shows

A new study published in International Braz J Urol found that exposure to hot baths or hot tubs can lead to male infertility. However, the effects can be reversible if the practice is discontinued for at least three months. The study showed a significant increase in sperm motility among responders, with a mean increase of 491 percent a...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalInternational braz j urol·DateMar 2, 2007

Atomic clock signals may be best shared by fiber-optics

Researchers at JILA propose using fibers to transfer ultra-stable time and frequency signals, offering improved accuracy over traditional GPS methods. This technology could enable synchronization of components in advanced X-ray sources and link geographically distributed radio telescopes to produce a giant telescope's power.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMar 2, 2007

VLTI: Amber penetrates to the heart of the stars

The Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI) equipped with AMBER has achieved unparalleled astronomical results, probing the formation stages of stars and detecting high-velocity jets in novae. The instrument's high angular resolution enables the observation of complex geometries and stellar winds.

SourceCNRS·DateMar 2, 2007

Erectile dysfunction drugs may trump nitroglycerin for heart protection

Researchers found that erectile dysfunction drugs like Viagra and Levitra can reduce heart damage after a heart attack, while nitroglycerin failed to offer similar protection. The study suggests these drugs may have potential as adjunct therapy for patients undergoing high-risk procedures or experiencing cardiac arrest.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJournal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology·DateMar 2, 2007

Economical and flexible

Organic transistors consume less energy than silicon transistors and can be constructed on flexible surfaces. Researchers linked p channel and n channel transistors in complementary circuits to save energy and create flexible electronic components.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMar 2, 2007

Rare cell prevents rampant brain activity

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a mechanism controlling how the brain maintains equilibrium in neuronal activity. A rare cell type, Martinotti cell, acts as a safety device by sending inhibitory signals to surrounding pyramid cells when activated excessively.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNeuron·DateMar 2, 2007