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Science News Archive April 2013 - Page 18


Page 18 of 32

All chins are not created equal

A Northwestern University study reveals that facial preferences differ among populations, with distinct chin shapes found across various groups. The findings suggest that human mate choices are influenced by factors beyond physical attractiveness.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2013

Secrets of bacterial slime revealed

Researchers discovered a molecular switch regulating biofilm formation, which could help identify new antibiotics and prevent biofilms from forming. The study sheds light on how bacteria shield themselves in a slimy protective layer to evade attacks.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 12, 2013

Healing by the clock

Researchers found that intestinal stem-cell regeneration in fruit flies varies with the time of day, with gut healing being more effective at certain times. This study sheds light on how circadian rhythms control daily functions and has potential applications for human health, including optimizing chemotherapy timing.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 11, 2013

Sea mammals find US safe harbor

Research reveals many marine mammal populations are increasing, with some recovering to near carrying capacity. The MMPA's strong protections against commercial and accidental killing have contributed to these recoveries.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2013

New technique measures evaporation globally

Researchers at Columbia University developed a method to map evaporation globally using weather stations, enabling scientists to evaluate water resource management and assess recent trends. The technique uses air temperature and humidity measurements to obtain daily evaporation rates.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2013

How Alzheimer's could occur

A new hypothesis suggests that spherical structures in the nucleus, containing FE65 and BLM proteins, can give a wrong signal for cell division. This degeneration and death of nerve cells is linked to Alzheimer's patients.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateApr 11, 2013

Molecular techniques are man's new best friend in pet obesity research

New molecular techniques offer insights into pet obesity, with a focus on understanding how nutrients affect gene expression. Researchers aim to prevent obesity by identifying key biological compounds and their impact on metabolism., Pet obesity affects over 50% of US dogs and cats, leading to chronic disease and reduced lifespan.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateApr 11, 2013