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Science News Archive July 2013 - Page 8


Page 8 of 31

Pocket-sized sensor gives instant fat burning updates

A new pocket-sized sensor can instantly measure acetone levels in exhaled breath to gauge fat burning progress. Developed for individualized dieting programs, the device is a practical alternative to standard methods, enabling users to monitor their own fat metabolism at home or outside.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Breath Research·DateJul 24, 2013

Heading for regeneration

Scientists discovered a molecular switch that regulates regeneration in flatworms, enabling them to grow heads complete with brain, eyes, and wiring. This breakthrough could lead to insights into why some animals regenerate while others don't, potentially informing regenerative therapies for humans.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2013

Starburst to star bust

Researchers using ALMA discovered that Sculptor Galaxy is expelling massive concentrations of cold gas through galactic winds, depriving the galaxy of fuel for new stars. This phenomenon may explain why few high-mass galaxies are observed in the cosmos, as starburst-driven winds recycle rather than remove star-forming material.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2013

Rules of attraction: Catching a peahen's eye

Researchers used eye-tracking to investigate what attracts female peahens to male peacocks. The study found that peahens spend most of their time gazing at the lower portion of the train, rather than its showy upper feathers. This suggests that the lower train may be the primary attraction for females.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJul 24, 2013

Are Christians becoming more 'green'?

Despite increased efforts by Christian leaders and organizations to promote eco-friendly values, a new study reveals that the general public's environmental concerns remain low among Christians in the US. The research surveyed over 1,400 people and found that Christians reported lower levels of pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalOrganization & Environment·DateJul 24, 2013

Large study reveals increased cancer risks associated with family history of the disease

A large study of 23,000 people in Italy and Switzerland found a strong link between family history of cancer and increased risk of developing different types of cancer. The study revealed associations between specific cancers, such as oral and pharyngeal cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate cancer, with a range of risk increases

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateJul 24, 2013

'Weightism' increases risk for becoming, staying obese

A recent study published in PLOS ONE reveals that experiencing weight discrimination increases the likelihood of becoming and staying obese. Researchers analyzed data from over 6000 participants, finding a significant correlation between perceived weight discrimination and obesity rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2013

HPV's link to esophageal cancer

Research by UNSW academics links human papillomavirus (HPV) to an increased risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, a type of oesophageal cancer. HPV is one of several factors contributing to the development of OSCC, which is more prevalent in certain countries like China, South Africa, and Iran.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2013

A promising target to treat asthma

A team from the University of Iowa has found that inhibiting the CaMKII enzyme could be an effective approach to treating allergic asthma. The study suggests that airway lining cells play a crucial role in asthma, and blocking the enzyme may help alleviate symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 24, 2013