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Science News for March 5, 2008


Rusty worms in the brain

Researchers found that transferrin protein aggregates into wormlike fibrils, releasing rust-like iron particles. These particles may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases by forming toxic free radicals and destroying nerve cells.

SourceWiley·DateMar 5, 2008

Mars and Venus are surprisingly similar

The Mars Express and Venus Express spacecraft reveal that the two planets' atmospheres are stripped away into space due to solar wind interactions. The similarity in magnetic field structure between the two planets suggests a shared ionosphere density at high altitudes.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalPlanetary and Space Science·DateMar 5, 2008

Mother-daughter conflict, low serotonin level may be deadly combination

New University of Washington research suggests that negative mother-daughter relationships and low serotonin levels in adolescents may be linked to self-harming behaviors. The study found that these two factors combined account for 64% of the difference between adolescents who engage in self-harming behaviors and those who do not.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateMar 5, 2008

Nanorings

Scientists have developed a method to produce rigid DNA nanorings with a tailored gap, allowing for the incorporation of functional molecules. The rings can be equipped with desired properties, such as anchors that precisely bind them to other components.

SourceWiley·DateMar 5, 2008

Sensor necklace aims to increase elderly and clinical trial participant drug compliance

Researchers have designed a sensor necklace called MagneTrace that records the exact time and date when specially-designed pills are swallowed, helping to increase drug compliance and reduce unnecessary healthcare costs. The device can notify both the patient and their doctor if prescribed dosage is not taken at the proper time.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateMar 5, 2008

New study sheds light on excessive drinking among the elderly

A new study from Brandeis University reveals that 1 in 10 elderly adults on Medicare consume more alcohol than recommended, with 9% engaging in unhealthy drinking habits. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to be aware of this often-missed issue and consider individual factors when assessing risk.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 5, 2008

New method to estimate sea ice thickness

Scientists developed a new model to estimate sea ice thickness, using historical observations and environmental data analysis. The study shows that average ice thickness and total ice volume fluctuated together during the early period, peaking in the late 1980s before declining until the mid-1990s.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalJournal of Climate·DateMar 5, 2008

Cellular construction methods emulated

The Dutch team used two types of self-aggregating compounds: surfactants and gelators. They formed aggregates that coexisted without interfering with each other, resulting in complex structures with separate compartments. This orthogonal self-aggregation enables the creation of versatile compartmentalized systems.

SourceWiley·DateMar 5, 2008

UCLA researchers find blood stem cells originate and are nurtured in the placenta

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery about the origin of blood stem cells, finding that they are generated in the placenta. The study's findings may allow for the growth of blood stem cells in cell culture, potentially leading to new treatments for diseases like leukemia and aplastic anemia. By understanding how blood stem ...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 5, 2008

Physics breakthrough much ado about 'nothing'

Researchers at the University of Calgary have successfully stored and retrieved a special type of vacuum, known as a squeezed vacuum, using rubidium atoms. This breakthrough has significant implications for quantum computing and information exchange, enabling the creation of ultra-secure codes for transmitting sensitive information.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 5, 2008

Nanoswitches toggled by light

Researchers discovered ultrafast electron microscopy reveals switchable nanochannels in copper and TCNQ crystals. These micromaterials stretch under laser pulses, exhibiting reversible optomechanical phenomena useful for nanoelectronic applications.

SourceWiley·DateMar 5, 2008