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Science News Archive September 2014 - Page 30


Page 30 of 34

An 'anchor' that keeps proteins together

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have discovered a new scaffold protein called PRO40 that plays a crucial role in the production of fruiting bodies in hyphae fungi. By binding to specific kinases, PRO40 enables signal transmission and regulates MAP kinase modules.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 4, 2014

Titania-based material holds promise as new insulator for superconductors

Researchers from NC State University have developed a titania-based material that can effectively insulate superconducting magnets, allowing for the preservation of electrical pathways and efficient heat dissipation. This breakthrough has significant implications for next-generation power generation technologies and medical devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSuperconductor Science and Technology·DateSep 4, 2014

Sugar substitutes not so super sweet after all

A study by Penn State researchers found that non-nutritive sweeteners are not as sweet as commonly believed, contrary to marketing claims. Participants could detect these sweeteners at lower levels but did not perceive them as sweeter than sugar.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateSep 4, 2014

Birth of a mineral

Researchers used a powerful microscope to study the birth of crystals in real time, revealing that calcium carbonate forms into different minerals through various pathways. This discovery may help scientists understand how to lock carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and better reconstruct ancient climates.

Ship ahoy! Fraunhofer displays innovations at SMM

The Fraunhofer Institute is showcasing its Virtual Maritime Interior Configurator, a tool that enables realistic planning of ship interiors without physical mock-ups. The company is also introducing the Crew Compliance Organizer software to simplify crew management and reduce regulatory violations. Additionally, Fraunhofer will display...

Transplanted stem cells help prevent bladder fibrosis after spinal cord injury

Researchers found that transplanting B10 human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells into the bladder wall of mice with spinal cord injury improved bladder function by promoting the growth of smooth muscle cells. This study provides potential evidence for MSC-based cell transplantation as a novel therapeutic strategy for bladder d...

Live from inside a battery

Lithium-ion battery researchers observed the phenomenon of 'lithium plating' during charging, which can cause short-circuits and reduce battery performance. The study used neutron diffraction to investigate the mechanism at work, shedding light on how lithium plating occurs and potentially paving the way for faster-charging batteries.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateSep 3, 2014

IU researchers isolate process that damages lungs of donors with traumatic brain injury

Researchers at Indiana University have isolated a process that damages the lungs of donors who suffered from traumatic brain injury, which may lead to improved lung transplant outcomes. The study found that fluid accumulation in the lungs occurs within hours after head trauma, limiting oxygenation and reducing lung function by nearly 80%.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 3, 2014

Wind energy cuts the electricity bill

A study by the University of the Basque Country found that wind energy produced savings of between 25 and 45 euros per megawatt hour in the early stages of renewable energy integration. However, as the penetration of renewable energy grew exponentially from 2010 onwards, the regulatory costs rose excessively, imposing a positive net co...

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEnergy Policy·DateSep 3, 2014

Estrogen increases cannabis sensitivity

A new study from Washington State University found that estrogen levels significantly increase tolerance to THC in female rats, making them more vulnerable to negative side effects. The research suggests that women are at higher risk of experiencing anxiety, paranoia, and addiction when using cannabis.

SourceWashington State University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateSep 3, 2014

Forming consensus in social networks

Researchers developed a novel computational model to capture the process of reaching consensus in social networks. The model analyzes communication patterns and handles uncertainties associated with soft data, establishing conditions for agents to reach a consensus that is consistent with the ground truth.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Signal Processing·DateSep 3, 2014

Study finds 'family meal' ideal is stressful, impossible for many families

Research from North Carolina State University reveals that home-cooked meals and family dinners can be stressful and impossible for many families due to financial limitations. The study found that middle-class and poor families face significant challenges in accessing healthy food, including transportation and kitchen tools.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·Journalسياقات اللغة والدراسات البينية·DateSep 3, 2014

40 percent of women with severe mental illness are victims of rape or attempted rape

A new study led by University College London found that 40% of women with severe mental illness have suffered rape or attempted rape in adulthood, compared to 7% of the general population. Women with severe mental illness are also more likely to suffer domestic violence, with 69% reporting childhood abuse and 49% reporting adult abuse.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateSep 3, 2014

Fingerprints for freight items

Researchers at Fraunhofer IFF are developing a digital fingerprint system for freight items to verify security status throughout the transport chain. This system aggregates features like 3D contours and RFID identifiers into one central profile, allowing for accurate information on security status.