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Science News for September 19, 2014


Graphene sensor tracks down cancer biomarkers

A graphene biosensor has been developed to detect cancer risk biomarkers, such as 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), with high sensitivity and speed. The sensor is capable of detecting concentrations as low as 0.1 ng mL-1, outperforming conventional detection methods.

SourceIOP Publishing·Journal2D Materials·DateSep 19, 2014

Even without kids, couples eat frequent family meals

A new study found that couples and adult-only households eat family meals on most days of the week, mirroring patterns seen in families with children. The research analyzed data from over 14,000 Ohio adults, suggesting that frequent family meal consumption may have health benefits for all adults, not just those with minors.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateSep 19, 2014

For legume plants, a new route from shoot to root

Researchers discovered a new route for legume plants to communicate with their symbiotic bacteria. The study found that cytokinins, signaling molecules, are transmitted from leaves to roots to control the number of bacterial-holding nodules. This innovation allows legumes to balance energy production and nodule development.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 19, 2014

Monster galaxies gain weight by eating smaller neighbors

Research by Australian scientists reveals massive galaxies are eating smaller ones to gain weight, but their star-formation process is inefficient. Dr. Aaron Robotham explains that gravity allows larger galaxies to pull in smaller neighbors, and the Milky Way will follow suit, eventually merging with Andromeda.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 19, 2014

New hadrosaur noses into spotlight

A new hadrosaur species, Rhinorex condrupus, with a unique nasal profile has been discovered in Utah. The species lived approximately 75 million years ago and is believed to have weighed over 8,500 lbs., helping fill gaps about habitat segregation during the Late Cretaceous period.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Systematic Palaeontology·DateSep 19, 2014