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Science News for June 8, 2014


Longer telomeres linked to risk of brain cancer

Research by UCSF scientists reveals two gene variants associated with longer telomeres also increase the risk of developing gliomas. Despite being carried by a majority of people, these genetic variants may promote overall health due to their protective effect on cells from aging.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 8, 2014

Quick getaway: How flies escape looming predators

New research reveals how a quick-escape circuit in the fly's brain overrides slower behavior when an urgent threat is detected. Flies can choose between long and short escapes, with quicker escapes often resulting in clumsier movements.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 8, 2014

New molecule enables quick drug monitoring

Scientists at EPFL introduce a novel biosensor molecule that can quickly measure drug concentration in patients' systems using a digital camera. The method is simple, low-cost, and can be used by patients themselves.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 8, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

A tiny molecule may help battle depression

Researchers at McGill University discovered a tiny molecule, miR-1202, that regulates glutamate receptors and is lower in the brains of depressed individuals. The study found that this microRNA increases with antidepressant treatment, suggesting it could be a potential target for developing new treatments.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 8, 2014

Health Affairs asks: Where can we find savings in health care?

Healthcare experts examine potential cost savings in maternal mortality reduction, adolescent cancer treatment, and biosimilar medication use. Studies reveal the importance of long-term financing plans and access to follow-up care for improved outcomes.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 8, 2014

No limits to human effects on clouds

A study by Weizmann Institute researchers found that human activities have altered the types of clouds over pristine ocean areas, leading to increased cloud height and rainfall. The team's model accurately predicted these changes using satellite images and aerosol data, suggesting a significant impact on global climate patterns.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 2014

Retracing early cultivation steps: Lessons from comparing citrus genomes

Researchers have analyzed and compared the genomes of ten diverse citrus varieties, revealing that they originated from two wild citrus species diverged in Southeast Asia over five million years ago. The study provides valuable insights into disease resistance and breeding strategies for improving citrus yields.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 8, 2014
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

More than just a hill of beans: Phaseolus genome lends insights into nitrogen fixation

The Phaseolus genome study provides valuable information on the genetic basis of nitrogen fixation in common beans, a crucial legume for agricultural sustainability. The research identified dense clusters of genes related to disease resistance and nitrogen metabolism, offering potential targets for future crop improvement efforts.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 8, 2014

Warming climates intensify greenhouse gas given out by oceans

A study suggests that warming climates can indirectly increase CO2 levels in the atmosphere by reducing iron and silicon availability in ocean waters. This is particularly significant in the southern ocean and equatorial Pacific, which play a crucial role in regulating atmospheric CO2.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 8, 2014

Targeting tumors using silver nanoparticles

The researchers designed a nanoparticle with a peptide coating to target tumor cells, allowing for efficient drug delivery. The shell is etchable, enabling the removal of excess particles using biocompatible chemicals.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 8, 2014