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Science News Archive September 2010 - Page 25


Page 25 of 27

Functional motor neuron subtypes generated from embryonic stem cells

Scientists have devised a method to coax mouse embryonic stem cells into forming highly specific motor neuron subtypes. This achievement may prove useful for future therapies for motor neuron diseases. The study provides new insight into motor neuron differentiation and demonstrates the ability to generate defined motor neuron subtypes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateSep 2, 2010

Pivotal study finds link between PTSD and dementia

A pivotal study finds a strong association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and an increased risk of dementia in veterans. The research, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, suggests that PTSD may be an early marker of dementia or contribute to cognitive impairment.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 2, 2010

Bochum's researchers discover proton diode

Biophysicists at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered a proton diode in proteins that allows protons to pass through cell membranes in one direction. Water molecules play a crucial role in this process, supporting the hypothesis that protein-bound water molecules are essential for protein function.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 2, 2010

Carlos '97 free kick no fluke, say French physicists

A group of French physicists have computed the trajectory of Roberto Carlos' famous 1997 free kick goal, revealing it was not an incredible fluke but a carefully calculated move. The 'spinning ball spiral' effect, as they call it, shows how the spin and velocity of the ball can create an unexpected trajectory.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateSep 2, 2010

Risk of marijuana's 'gateway effect' overblown, new UNH research shows

Research from the University of New Hampshire suggests that marijuana use may not lead to illicit drug abuse in young adulthood as previously thought. The study found that life factors such as employment status and stress play a stronger role in determining illicit drug use. In fact, the strongest predictor of illicit drug use is race/...

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateSep 2, 2010

Dangers in the garden

A previously fit man contracted Legionnaire's disease after cutting his finger on compost, highlighting the risk of infection through gardening activities. The UK Royal Horticultural Society has announced cautionary statements on potting compost bags to warn gardeners about this rare but serious risk.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 2, 2010

New guidelines to ease sleepless nights

The British Association for Psychopharmacology has released new guidelines to guide psychiatrists and physicians in treating sleep disorders. These guidelines recommend cognitive behavioral therapy as an effective treatment option for insomnia, which can be improved with specialist targeted therapy. The guidelines also address specific...

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateSep 2, 2010

Tropical forests slashed for farmland

The study found that over 80% of new farmland created in the tropics between 1980 and 2000 came from felling forests, with significant implications for global warming. The research suggests that the rate of deforestation may be slowing, but the demand for agricultural production is expected to continue growing.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 2, 2010

Keeping faith -- schools must balance ethos with equality

Research reveals that faith-based schools in the UK often fail to address LGBTQ+ issues, with teachers intimidated by power structures and unequal policies. The study calls for greater accountability from school leaders to challenge homophobic bullying and ensure equality for all students.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalEducational Management Administration & Leadership·DateSep 1, 2010

JCI online early table of contents: Sept. 1, 2010

Researchers have identified a way to preserve nerve cells in a rat model of stroke and developed a modified adenovirus vaccine that provides protection against malaria in mice. The vaccine targets a protein called TRPC6, which is involved in protecting nerve cells from death after a stroke.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 1, 2010

'You kick like a girl'

A study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found significant differences in knee alignment and muscle activation between male and female soccer players. Male players activate specific hip and leg muscles more than females during kicking motions, which may contribute to the higher risk of ACL injuries among women.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateSep 1, 2010