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Science News Archive March 2008 - Page 3


Page 3 of 19

Sniffing out danger

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that a single negative experience linked to an odor rapidly teaches us to identify and discriminate it from similar ones. The study found specific changes in brain regions enhancing perceptual sensitivity for smells with high biological relevance.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMar 27, 2008

Under the sea

Researchers have mapped the 8-mile thick molten rock layers beneath the Atlantic Ocean's edges, providing insight into the break-up of continents and massive greenhouse gas releases. The study also developed a new method to see through lava flows, enabling oil exploration in previously restricted areas.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateMar 27, 2008

Silicon chips for optical quantum technologies

A team of physicists and engineers at the University of Bristol demonstrated control of single particles of light on a silicon chip, a crucial step towards a super-powerful quantum computer. The controlled-NOT gate, the building block of a quantum computer, was achieved with high-fidelity operation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·DateMar 27, 2008

A new method to identify mutated genes in human diseases

Researchers have developed a new method to identify mutated genes in human diseases by analyzing gene expression data. The study identified candidate genes for 81 diseases, including epilepsy and muscular dystrophy, paving the way for a better understanding of disease mechanisms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 27, 2008

Why matter matters in the universe

Researchers investigated B-meson decays to understand the origin of matter's dominance over antimatter in the universe. The study reveals a significant discrepancy between theoretical models and observations, suggesting the presence of a new principle of physics.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature·DateMar 27, 2008

Relaxation training may improve control of hard-to-treat systolic hypertension

A study found that relaxation response training significantly improved treatment of isolated systolic hypertension in elderly patients. The approach reduced the need for medication and cut healthcare costs by billions of dollars. By eliciting the relaxation response, participants experienced a significant drop in systolic blood pressure.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateMar 27, 2008

Saving cancer patients' skin

A new breed of targeted cancer drugs is attacking specific proteins in cancer cells, but also causes devastating dermatologic side effects. The Cancer Skin Care Program at Northwestern University provides specially formulated lotions and drugs to help patients preserve their dignity and quality of life.

Armed beetles find a mate, whatever their size

Researchers discovered that Librodor japonicus beetles employ distinct strategies to attract mates based on their body size. Smaller males use 'sneaky matings' behind larger males, while medium-sized beetles search for unoccupied feeding sites. This unique approach ensures all individuals have a chance at finding a mate without conflict.

SourceWiley·JournalEcological Entomology·DateMar 27, 2008

Social anxiety disorder

Social anxiety disorder is a chronic and pernicious condition that can lead to depression and substance abuse in adulthood. Research highlights the importance of understanding its neurobiological underpinnings, including increased amygdala activity and heritable temperamental traits.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 27, 2008

Brain's 'sixth sense' for calories discovered

The brain can detect calorie content in food independently of taste, according to a study published in Neuron. The research found that the brain's reward system is activated by caloric intake, leading to a preference for calorie-containing foods over non-caloric sweeteners.

Does an official government apology really make amends?

Researchers found that official apologies can create a perception of remorse, but their effectiveness in promoting forgiveness is limited. The study suggests that intergroup apologies should be considered as part of a long process of reconciliation rather than a magic solution to heal past wounds.

SourceSAGE·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMar 26, 2008

Umbilical cord blood cell therapy in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cell therapy significantly reduced amyloid-β and β-amyloid plaques in mice with Alzheimer's-like disease. The treatment modulates the immune system by suppressing CD40-CD40L activity, offering potential for targeting inflammatory responses associated with degenerative conditions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMar 26, 2008