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Science News Archive May 2014 - Page 28


Page 28 of 31

A symbiotic way of life

University of Miami researchers found that an amino acid transporter regulates glutamine supply to symbiotic bacteria in pea aphids, enabling the exchange of essential nutrients. This simple mechanism allows the insect-bacteria partnership to adapt to changing demand for nutrients.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2014

When wine hits the right nerve

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum decode mechanism for appreciation of the barrique character, a bitter sensation on the tongue. They found that gallic acid groups are responsible for triggering this sensation, which is mediated by the trigeminal nerve.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemical Senses·DateMay 5, 2014

Groovy turtles' genes to aid in their rescue

A USGS study identifies four genetically distinct populations of diamondback terrapins, shedding light on the species' conservation needs. The research aims to develop targeted conservation plans, including habitat protection and migration corridors, to maintain genetic diversity and support the terrapin's overall population numbers.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalConservation Genetics·DateMay 5, 2014

Light-sensitive 'eyes' in plants

Researchers have studied phytochromes, proteins that detect light and inform plant cells whether it is day or night. The discovery increases understanding of these proteins and may lead to new strategies for developing more efficient crops that can grow in low-light conditions.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature·DateMay 5, 2014

Science finds wines' fruity flavors fade first

A recent study from Washington State University challenges conventional wisdom on wine flavor finish. Researchers found that fruity flavors disappear from the palate earlier than oaky, floral, and earth flavors perception. This discovery sheds new light on the complex relationship between taste, aroma, and flavor in wine.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateMay 5, 2014

Terahertz imaging on the cheap

Researchers at MIT describe a new technique that could reduce the number of sensors needed for terahertz or millimeter-wave imaging by a factor of 10, enabling more practical high-resolution imaging systems. The technique exploits the sparsity of scenes in certain ranges, allowing for efficient reconstruction without aliasing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation·DateMay 5, 2014

Caring for horses eases symptoms of dementia

People with Alzheimer's experience a clear improvement in dementia-related behavior after visiting horses under supervision, with reduced fidgeting and resistance to care. The therapy boosts physical activity and lifts their mood, providing a unique way to ease symptoms without drugs.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAnthrozoös·DateMay 5, 2014