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Science News Archive March 2013 - Page 24


Page 24 of 30

Nanoparticles loaded with bee venom kill HIV

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed nanoparticles carrying melittin, a toxin found in bee venom, that can destroy human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) while leaving surrounding cells unharmed. This finding offers an important step towards developing a vaginal gel that may prevent the spread of HIV.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAntiviral Therapy·DateMar 7, 2013

Lizards facing mass extinction

A new study suggests that climate change may lead to the extinction of dozens of lizard species within the next 50 years due to rising temperatures. Lizards with viviparous reproduction are particularly vulnerable as changing weather patterns affect their ability to adapt and survive in cold environments.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMar 7, 2013

Exercise shields children from stress

A recent study found that sedentary children experience stress hormone surges when exposed to everyday stressors, while the most active children had little or no increase in cortisol levels. The study suggests physical activity plays a role in mental health by buffering children from daily stressors.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 7, 2013

Study finds up to half of gestational diabetes patients will develop type 2 diabetes

A recent study found that women with gestational diabetes are at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, with a significant defect in insulin secretion identified as a key factor. The study's findings indicate that up to half of Asian women who had gestational diabetes may develop Type 2 diabetes within eight years of giving birth.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 7, 2013

Do-gooder or ne'er-do-well? Behavioral science explains patterns of moral behavior

Research suggests that people with an 'ends justify the means' mindset tend to balance their good and bad deeds, while those who believe in principle-based morality are more likely to be consistent in their behavior. The study found that individuals with a rule-based mindset were less likely to cheat after recalling an ethical act.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 7, 2013

When food is scarce, a smaller brain will do

Researchers found that the brain prioritizes neural diversity over number of neurons when faced with limited nutrients, a strategy essential for survival. This discovery may have implications for understanding human brain development and addressing intrauterine growth restriction.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 7, 2013

Measuring the universe more accurately than ever before

A team of astronomers has measured the distance to the Large Magellanic Cloud with unprecedented accuracy, pinning down its value at 163,000 light-years. This breakthrough improves distances for Cepheid variable stars and the Hubble Constant, enabling more precise surveying of the Universe.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateMar 6, 2013