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Science News for August 25, 2004


Fall off in freezes: NCAR study projects decrease in frost days

A recent NCAR study found a significant decrease in frost days worldwide over the last 50 years, with greatest reductions in the western US and Canada. The factors at work are attributed to changes in atmospheric circulation, including increased mild air from the Pacific and cold Canadian air from the east.

High-dose steroids do not always cause bone loss in children

A new study challenges the long-held view that high-dose steroids cause bone loss in children. Researchers found no signs of osteoporosis in 60 steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome patients, contradicting previous findings in other childhood diseases treated with steroids. Obesity may actually stimulate bone growth and increase bone mass.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 25, 2004

Discovery of new shrimp species adds to unique family

Dr. Arthur Anker's research on alpheidae, a diverse family of snapping shrimp, has led to the discovery of two new species: Automate hayashii from Hokkaido, Japan, and Bermudacaris australiensis off Western Australia. These finds expand our understanding of this unique family's range and ecological diversity.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Natural History·DateAug 25, 2004