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Science News for October 2, 2009


The state of America's leadership

A new comprehensive survey of White House Fellows, a group of over 600 prominent leaders, reveals significant differences between America's leadership cohort and the general public. The study found greater confidence in institutions like the Supreme Court and scientific community, but less confidence in education and organized labor.

Women's soccer -- get fit while having fun

A two-year study of 100 untrained adult women reveals that playing soccer improves maximal oxygen uptake, muscle mass, and physical performance compared to running. The study also shows that soccer's fixed time and place make it easier for women to stick to their training than running.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateOct 2, 2009

Case Western Reserve University discovers Merkel cell originates from skin, not the neural crest

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that Merkel cells, responsible for touch perception, originate from the skin, contradicting previous speculation. The study's results provide significant insights into the development and function of Merkel cells, which may hold implications for understanding Merkel cell carcinoma.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateOct 2, 2009

The amazing maze of maize evolution

Dr. Marina Dermastia and colleagues discovered similarities between maize and teosinte kernel development, overturning previous assumptions about domestication. The team found traits like programmed cell death, sugar flow control, and endoreduplication that are common to both crops, suggesting they evolved independently.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateOct 2, 2009