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Science News Archive August 2013 - Page 17


Page 17 of 29

Decellularized mouse heart beats again after regenerating with human heart precursor cells

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have successfully regenerated a mouse heart using human heart precursor cells, paving the way for potential transplantation and drug testing models. The breakthrough could lead to personalized organ replacement and improved treatment options for heart disease patients.

The Elizabethan war that won $300,000

Ruth Canning's research project explores the Nine Years' War, a 400-year-old conflict that shaped Ireland's identity and continues to influence its culture today. The grant will fuel her three-year study of this overlooked war, which could lead to a more nuanced understanding of present-day situations.

Sugar is toxic to mice in 'safe' doses

Researchers found that mice consuming a diet of 25 percent extra sugar died at twice the normal rate and males had reduced territory and reproduction rates. The study suggests that added sugars can have dramatic adverse impacts on mammalian health, even at levels considered safe by regulatory agencies.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 13, 2013

Stroke declines dramatically, still higher in Mexican-Americans

A new study reports that ischemic stroke rates among Mexican Americans have declined over the past decade, while still being significantly higher than those of non-Hispanic Whites. The study found that this disparity has not changed, with Mexican Americans accounting for 34% of all stroke cases.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateAug 13, 2013

Bright birds make good mothers

A three-year study found that female blue tits with brighter UV-reflectant crown feathers fledge more offspring than duller females, experiencing lower levels of stress hormones during arduous periods of chick rearing. This suggests that male choice of mate based on plumage color may be a wise strategy.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateAug 13, 2013

Do conservation scientists work too hard?

Conservation scientists work a substantial amount of their time outside regular office hours, with Japanese and Chinese researchers submitting nearly 40% of their manuscripts outside regular office hours. This trend is increasing, with potential negative impacts on the quality of scientific work and life-work balance.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBiological Conservation·DateAug 13, 2013

Women still less likely to commit corporate fraud

Researchers found women rarely part of corporate conspiracies and tend to play minor roles in fraud schemes. Women's involvement may be motivated by ethical concerns and social relationships, leading to lower financial gains from corporate crime.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateAug 13, 2013

Ecosystems change long before species are lost

A recent study by Rice University researchers found that altering the dynamics of a population can have measurable consequences on complex ecosystems. The study's results suggest that changing the structure of populations can alter entire food webs and ecosystems, highlighting their fragility.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 13, 2013

AGU journal highlights -- Aug. 13, 2013

Researchers discovered that large waves in Norwegian fjords were triggered by a powerful Japan earthquake, while disposal of Marcellus Shale fracking waste caused earthquakes in Ohio. The Arctic region is also sensitive to black carbon emissions, which can have devastating effects on the environment.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 13, 2013

Crowdsourcing weather using smartphone batteries

Researchers used smartphone batteries to crowdsource weather information, estimating daily average temperatures for eight major cities with an accuracy of 1.5 degrees Celsius. This technique could lead to continuously updated weather predictions at a city block resolution, improving the accuracy and specificity of current weather forec...

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 13, 2013

Study finds that some depressed adolescents are at higher risk for developing anxiety

A new study found that depressed adolescents are more likely to develop anxiety if they have a pessimistic outlook, poor family relationships, or a mother with an anxiety disorder. Mental health professionals may be able to target these high-risk youth and provide early intervention to prevent anxiety from developing.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateAug 12, 2013

There's life after radiation for brain cells

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered that neural stem cells can resist radiation and regenerate after damage, potentially restoring lost function in brain cancer patients and individuals with conditions like MS and PD. The findings may lead to new treatments for brain trauma and strokes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalStem Cells·DateAug 12, 2013