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Science News for March 12, 2008


Scientists identify new longevity genes

Researchers at the University of Washington have identified 25 genes regulating lifespan in yeast and roundworms, with at least 15 having similar versions in humans. The study provides quantitative evidence that these genes have been conserved during evolution, suggesting potential targets for treating age-related diseases.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 12, 2008

Researchers find cause of severe allergic reaction to cancer drug

A new study has discovered that specific pre-existing IgE antibodies are the primary cause of severe allergic reactions to cancer drug cetuximab. The research found these antibodies were more prevalent in certain regions of the US, including Tennessee, Arkansas, and North Carolina, which have higher rates of anaphylactic reactions.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 12, 2008

Revealed: the secrets of successful ecosystems

The study found that an intermediate rate of dispersal creates a 'happy medium' wherein species move around enough to adapt to harsh environments, increasing ecosystem productivity and biodiversity. This breakthrough helps ecologists develop strategies for conservation areas with high biomass and diversity.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateMar 12, 2008

Study raises caution on new painkillers

A new class of painkillers that block the TRPV1 receptor may interfere with brain functions such as learning and memory, according to a recent study. The researchers found that the receptor regulates neural mechanisms involved in establishing memory pathways in the brain.

York investigates evolving 'swarm' robots

The project aims to develop an artificial immune system that can protect individual robots and the larger collective organism from faults. By sharing information and energy, the robots form a single artificial life-form with enhanced capabilities, such as rescuing earthquake victims.

Astronomers find grains of sand around distant stars

Researchers have found evidence of small, sandy particles orbiting a newborn solar system at a distance similar to the Earth's orbit around the sun. The discovery sheds light on how Earth-like planets may form and offers new opportunities for studying the chemical composition of these particles.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateMar 12, 2008

Single-crystal semiconductor wire built into an optical fiber

A team from Penn State University and the University of Southampton created a single-crystal semiconductor inside an optical fiber, overcoming performance degradation between fibers and devices. The new device enables faster and more efficient electronic signals, opening up potential for next-level applications in various fields.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 12, 2008

LLNL researchers create tool to monitor nuclear reactors

Researchers have developed a cubic-meter-scale antineutrino detector that can quickly and precisely monitor the operational status and thermal power of nuclear reactors over hour-to-month-time scales. This new tool provides a direct measurement of reactor performance, enabling nonproliferation efforts by detecting fissile material inve...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 12, 2008

Novel discovery by Einstein scientists could lead to much-needed kidney failure treatment

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that aberrant Notch signaling plays a role in diabetic nephropathy and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, two major causes of end-stage renal disease. They discovered that gamma secretase inhibitors can protect against kidney disease, sparking hope for new treatment options.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 12, 2008

Streams natural filters, if not overloaded

Researchers found that streams can remove up to 90% of nitrate pollution through denitrification and algal uptake, with effectiveness greatest in healthy streams not overloaded by human activities. Streams play a crucial role in reducing eutrophication problems in lakes and coastal waters.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature·DateMar 12, 2008

The yin and yang of genes for mood disorders

Researchers investigated how inheriting different combinations of gene variants impact depression risk in normal subjects. They found that the SLC6A4 serotonin transporter gene interacts with the BDNF gene to regulate emotion regulation system development, revealing individual genes are not isolated risks.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 12, 2008

Quitting smoking in pregnancy boosts chances of easygoing child

Research on over 18,000 UK babies found that mothers who quit smoking during pregnancy had the most easy-going infants. The study suggests that quitting smoking may boost a child's temperament and reduce behavioral problems. Heavy smokers had more difficult children with lower scores for positive mood.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMar 12, 2008