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Science News for March 4, 2014


Raising an army of armchair activists?

A recent study on the Save Darfur Cause on Facebook found that only a small percentage of members donated or recruited others, despite the campaign's large online presence. Meanwhile, those who joined independently were more likely to engage in activism, highlighting the potential for individual actions to drive collective change.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSociological Science·DateMar 4, 2014

Alzheimer's in a dish

Researchers at Harvard University have successfully converted patient skin cells into human brain cells, offering a new model for studying and developing treatments for early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The study found that preventing amyloid-beta imbalances can reduce levels of distorted tau protein.

SourceHarvard University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMar 4, 2014

Study examines gap in federal oversight of clinical trials

A recent study analyzed nearly 24,000 active human research clinical trials and found that 5-16% are not covered by two major federal regulations. The primary federal human subjects protections policies in the US include FDA HSP regulations and the Common Rule, which can lead to overlap trials and gap trials with varying characteristics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 4, 2014

Physics in 3-D? That's nothing. Try 0-D

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have identified a zero-dimensional quantum dot structure that can confine electronic excitations within semiconductor nanowires. This discovery has significant implications for harnessing solar energy, creating stronger lasers, and developing more sensitive medical diagnostic devices.

'Gaydar' revisited

A recent study revisits the phenomenon of 'gaydar' in women, finding that lesbians are better at detecting sexual orientation, while straight women excel at identifying emotions and thoughts. The research also highlights differences in judgments between lesbian and straight judges.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalCognition & Emotion·DateMar 4, 2014

Next step in live-donor uterus transplant project

A team of Swedish researchers led by Professor Mats Brännström have successfully performed nine uterus transplants using live donors, a breakthrough in treating uterine infertility. The transplants involved five mother-daughter pairs and four close relatives, with no blood transfusions required during surgery.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateMar 4, 2014

What makes flying snakes such gifted gliders?

A team of researchers used computer simulations to study the aerodynamics of flying snakes, discovering that whirls of wind surrounding the snake's body provide an extra boost of lift. This unique shape helps the snake glide efficiently through the air, making it a fascinating example of nature's efficient design.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMar 4, 2014

Discovery in France of the New Guinea flatworm

The New Guinea flatworm, considered one of the 100 worst invasive alien species, has been found in France for the first time. The flatworm was identified by molecular analysis and is capable of consuming European snails and other soil-dwelling species.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateMar 4, 2014

Plant extract hope for infant muscle disease

Researchers have discovered a plant-based compound that targets the root cause of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disorder causing muscle wastage and weakness in infants. Quercetin has shown promise in tests on zebra fish, mice, and fruit flies, offering a potential treatment option for early stages of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 4, 2014

Cultural world heritage threatened by climate change

A new study by Ben Marzeion and Anders Levermann finds that global warming will put 136 cultural monuments at risk, including historical cities like Bruges, Naples, and Istanbul. Sea-level rise will impact not only coastal areas but also regions currently populated by millions of people, leading to the loss of culture and heritage.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 4, 2014

Sea-level rise threatens UNESCO World Heritage sites

The study found that seven per cent of the current global population would be living on land that would be below sea level if temperatures increased above pre-industrial levels by 3°C in the next 2000 years. The impact on cultural heritage sites, including iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Sydney Opera House, is severe.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 4, 2014

Does palliative chemotherapy palliate?

Research suggests that palliative chemotherapy can lead to more invasive medical procedures and a higher risk of death in intensive care units among advanced cancer patients. The findings highlight the need for clearer discussion of the harms and benefits of palliative chemotherapy at the end of life.

Which interventions are most effective to promote exclusive breastfeeding?

A systematic review found that prenatal and postnatal interventions, duration, and mother emotional support are critical factors in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. The study suggests that more support and interventions in the postpartum period may be necessary to achieve the international goal of exclusive breastfeeding for six months.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateMar 4, 2014

CHOP researcher finds more genetic signals linking weight and heart health risk factors

A recent study by CHOP researcher Brendan J. Keating found that higher BMI raises the risk of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, while another study identified genetic signals linked to central adiposity. These findings have significant implications for the obesity pandemic in the US and other countries.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 4, 2014

New school meal standards significantly increase fruit, vegetable consumption

A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that the new federal school meal standards led to increased fruit and vegetable consumption among students. Despite criticism that the standards would lead to more food waste, the study showed no increase in waste, but high levels of waste still persisted.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 4, 2014