Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2014 - Page 9


Page 9 of 34

Termites evolved complex bioreactors 30 million years ago

Termite fungus farmers developed a sophisticated system of cooperation between fungi and gut bacteria to break down complex plant components. The symbiotic community optimized for efficient plant decomposition involves division of labor, with fungi handling carbohydrates and gut microbes contributing enzymes for final digestion.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2014

Advancing the understanding of an understudied food allergy disorder

Eosinophilic gastritis is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by high levels of eosinophils in the blood and gastrointestinal tract. The study found that it involves allergy-associated-immune mechanisms and has a distinct gene expression pattern, paving the way for improved diagnosis and treatment.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 23, 2014

Rate of diabetes in US may be leveling off

The prevalence of diagnosed diabetes in the US population has plateaued for adults between 2008 and 2012, with a slight decrease in incidence. However, certain subgroups continue to experience an increase in diabetes rates, exacerbating existing racial and socioeconomic disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 23, 2014

Big changes in the Sargasso Sea

Researchers found that animal communities in Sargassum rafts were significantly less diverse than those observed in the 1970s, with 13 species missing from recent samples. The study suggests that long-term shifts in ocean conditions may be contributing to the decline, but further research is needed to confirm this.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalMarine Biology·DateSep 23, 2014

Eating five a day may keep the blues away

Fruit and vegetable consumption consistently associated with high and low mental wellbeing, suggesting potential role as driver of mental health in the general population. High mental wellbeing linked to healthier lifestyle habits, while low mental wellbeing strongly linked to mental illness and physical diseases.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMJ Open·DateSep 23, 2014

Kessler Foundation researchers find foot drop stimulator beneficial in stroke rehab

A study published by Kessler Foundation researchers found that using a foot drop stimulator during walking can retrain the temporal activation of the tibialis anterior muscle, improving muscle function. The results suggest that this intervention may facilitate recovery from foot drop, a common complication of stroke.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateSep 23, 2014

Moving to the 'burbs is bad for business

A Concordia University study found that businesses located furthest from market expansion have higher profits than those chasing customers. Retailers should analyze the market and secure good locations early on to maximize profits.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCanadian Journal of Administrative Sciences / Revue Canadienne des Sciences de l Administration·DateSep 23, 2014

Water-quality trading can reduce river pollution

A new study by Duke University researchers suggests that water-quality trading programs can significantly lower costs of achieving Clean Water Act goals. By allowing polluters to buy, sell or trade credits, these programs can reduce pollution in river basins and estuaries faster and at a lower cost than requiring facilities to meet com...

SourceDuke University·JournalWater Resources Research·DateSep 23, 2014

Could suburban sprawl be good for segregation?

Researchers found that low-density neighborhoods are more likely to stay integrated, while high-density areas become segregated. The study uses a mathematical model to simulate the movement of families between neighborhoods and shows that cities can quickly become segregated once a certain density threshold is reached.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2014

'Bendy' LEDs

A Korean research team has successfully grown gallium nitride micro-rods on graphene substrates, enabling the creation of bendable light-emitting diodes. The technology has significant implications for next-generation electronics and optoelectronics devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateSep 23, 2014

Stop taking patients in cardiac arrest to hospital, says expert

A leading expert suggests that taking patients in cardiac arrest to hospital may be actively harmful and recommends empowering ambulance staff with skills to optimise CPR at the scene. This approach could save lives and reduce unnecessary transports, but experts acknowledge the complexity of applying guidelines in different regions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 23, 2014

Does the belief in guardian angels make people more cautious?

A recent study published in SAGE Open found that individuals who believe in guardian angels tend to be less likely to take risks compared to non-believers. The researchers surveyed 198 participants and discovered that the majority of those who believe in guardian angels are more cautious when making decisions, with a higher risk percep...

SourceSAGE·JournalSAGE Open·DateSep 23, 2014

Note to young men: Fat doesn't pay

Researchers analyzed data from Sweden, UK, and US, finding obese teen boys earn up to 18% less than peers. The study attributes the penalty to lower cognitive and non-cognitive skills linked to obesity, bullying, and discrimination. Targeting early-life obesity could reduce socio-economic inequalities.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalDemography·DateSep 23, 2014