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Science News for April 29, 2014


Molecular networks provide insights for computer security, Carnegie Mellon finds

The Carnegie Mellon team developed an algorithm that generates robust architectures for computer networks by analyzing the evolution of molecular connections in yeast cells. This approach can help understand how networks respond to cascading failures and external threats, offering insights into designing secure systems.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateApr 29, 2014

How a fish can fry: Scientists uncover evolutionary clues behind electric fish

Electric fish have evolved sophisticated communication systems using modified muscle cells, allowing them to bypass predators in the dark. A gene duplication event led to the specialized Scn4aa sodium channel gene, which may have driven quicker evolution and adaptation in electric fish.

Graphene not all good

Researchers found graphene oxide nanoparticles more stable in groundwater and unstable in surface waters. The material's mobility in water has significant implications for its potential environmental impact. The study highlights the need for further research on the stability and transport of these engineered nanomaterials.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateApr 29, 2014

Urban river pollutants suppress wild bird development

Research reveals that urban river pollutants are suppressing the health and development of wild birds, with chicks from contaminated rivers showing signs of underweight and hormonal imbalance. The study highlights the importance of monitoring bird populations as indicators of environmental well-being and food-web contamination.

SourceCardiff University·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateApr 29, 2014

When harm done can never be balanced: Vicarious revenge and the death of Osama bin Laden

A new study from social psychology researchers found that while Osama bin Laden's assassination may have satisfied some Americans' sense of justice, it did not fully quench their desire for revenge. Respondents who felt justice was achieved also showed a stronger desire for further revenge against those responsible for the 9/11 attacks.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateApr 29, 2014

Proving uncertainty: New insight into old problem

Researchers provide first rigorous formulation supporting Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, enabling precise characterization of information accessible in quantum experiments. The work highlights the fundamental limits of measurements in quantum physics and may corroborate the security of quantum cryptographic protocols.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Mathematical Physics·DateApr 29, 2014

Graphene only as strong as weakest link

Researchers measured graphene's fracture toughness for the first time, finding it to be significantly lower than its intrinsic strength. The study highlights the importance of fabricating high-quality graphene sheets without defects.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2014

Facial transplantation: Almost a decade out, surgeons prepare for burgeoning demand

The procedure has been found to be highly effective in restoring people to fully functioning lives after physically disfiguring facial injuries, with most patients experiencing significant psychological improvements. However, the treatment still poses lifelong risks and complications, including rejection and infection.

Information technology can simplify weight-loss efforts; social support still important for success

Research at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that information technology, such as smartphone apps, can aid in weight loss by streamlining tracking and providing visual feedback. Social support, however, remains essential for long-term success, with in-person connections preferred over online networks.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Telemedicine and E-Health·DateApr 29, 2014

Solving a mystery of thermoelectrics

Researchers have finally found a theoretical explanation for the differences in thermal conductivity between similar materials, which could lead to the discovery of new thermoelectric materials. The findings are reported in the journal Nature Communications and were partly supported by the U.S. Department of Energy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2014

New analysis of 7 ant genomes reveals clues to longer life spans associated with sociality

Researchers identified 24 functional categories of genes with strong positive selection in ant lineages, including those related to nervous system development and immunity. Ant-specific signals on mitochondrial activity genes may be responsible for increased queen lifespan up to 30 years.

Study: WHO tool underestimates need for osteoporosis treatment

A recent study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that the World Health Organization's Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) underestimates the true dangers for people who are younger than 65 or have been treated for a single broken bone. The study used the Canadian BMI-FRAX form of...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 29, 2014

Anti-bullying policy must focus on all of society

Researchers from the University of Warwick warn that socio-economic status is not a reliable indicator of bullying behavior, contrary to common assumptions. The review found that bullies come from all social backgrounds and are only marginally less likely to be from high socioeconomic levels.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 29, 2014

Graphene only as strong as weakest link

Researchers from Rice University and Georgia Tech measured graphene's fracture toughness for the first time, finding it to be somewhat brittle. The study highlights the importance of fabricating high-quality graphene sheets without defects to ensure its structural applications.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2014

A protein key to the next green revolution sits for its portrait

A team at Washington University in St. Louis solved the structure of NolR, a master off-switch for the nodulation process that converts bacteria into nitrogen-fixing organisms. The discovery provides insight into the biological machinery of nitrogen-fixing and may lead to re-engineering crop plants with on-site nitrogen-fixing systems.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2014

Snobby staff can boost luxury retail sales

Researchers at the University of British Columbia found that consumers who experience rudeness from sales staff are more likely to purchase and wear luxury brands. The study suggests that a 'snobbish' attitude is beneficial for high-end retailers, but only if the salesperson appears authentic.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 29, 2014

NAI Fellows paper on patents and commercialization for tenure, career advancement in PNAS

The paper argues that universities should value faculty patents and commercialization activities equally in decisions related to tenure and academic advancement. The authors suggest that encouraging innovation and supporting bright young faculty can lead to a culture change that recognizes the value of these activities.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2014

Risk of birth defects small with HIV drugs

A French study found a small link between HIV drug use during pregnancy and an increased risk of heart defects in children. However, the benefits of antiretroviral therapy in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV outweigh the risks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 29, 2014