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University of Georgia


New method for producing precursor of neurons, bone and other important tissues from stem cells

Scientists at the University of Georgia have developed a new method to create neural crest cells, precursors of bone cells, smooth muscle cells, and neurons, using a single-step process that reduces production time by half. The method uses small molecules to activate specific signaling pathways, increasing consistency and reducing costs.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2011

Location matters: For invasive aquatic species, it's better to start upstream

Researchers found that invasive species like the European green crab may have a major advantage when starting at the upstream edge of their range, particularly in environments with strong prevailing directions of water or wind currents. This can help inform control efforts and conservation strategies for native species.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2011

Northern Eurasian snowpack could be a predictor of winter weather in US, team from UGA reports

Researchers from UGA found a significant relationship between autumn snow extent in specific regions of Eurasia and temperatures across North America during the subsequent winter. Years with extensive autumn snow in northwest Eurasia were associated with winter temperatures seven degrees lower near the center of North America.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalInternational Journal of Climatology·DateJun 24, 2011

Study finds youth-mentor relationships particularly helpful for those experiencing hardship

A University of Georgia study found that informal mentor relationships significantly reduced behaviors like anger, substance abuse, and breaking the law among young adults experiencing hardship. These relationships helped youths develop self-control and set goals, compensating for difficulties in their own lives.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Journal of Community Psychology·DateMay 12, 2011

Study finds weight training safe for pregnant women

A University of Georgia study found a supervised, low-to-moderate intensity weight-lifting exercise program to be safe and beneficial for pregnant women. The research showed that participants increased their strength without experiencing musculoskeletal injuries or significant changes in blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateMar 25, 2011

Freshwater sustainability challenges shared by Southwest and Southeast, researchers find

Researchers found that both the Southwest and Southeast have insufficient water resources to support human needs, leading to a reliance on imported virtual water. The study highlights the need for new strategies in water storage and conservation across the US, particularly in regions with inland metropolitan areas.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2010

UGA researchers identify key enzyme that regulates the early growth of breast cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Georgia have discovered a key enzyme that regulates the early growth of breast cancer cells, which can delay tumor onset and spread by blocking GnT-V activity. The study found that eliminating this enzyme reduces breast cancer stem cells, potentially leading to new drug targets and treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 18, 2010

Maternal diet high in trans fats doubles risk of excess body fat in breastfed babies, study finds

A University of Georgia study suggests that mothers who consume a diet high in trans fats double the likelihood that their infants will have high levels of body fat. Infants whose mothers consumed more than 4.5 grams of trans fats per day while breastfeeding were twice as likely to have high percentages of body fat.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateSep 29, 2010