▪ Mast cells, the source of histamine in allergy attacks, release an enzyme that breaks down viper and honeybee venom, rather than simply exacerbating the effects of those toxins as previously assumed.
Science, July 28
▪ Internet search engines could in theory produce unwanted feedback, making popular sites even more popular. Fortunately, however, the specificity and diversity of searches keep the popularity bias in check.
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Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA, August 22
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