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Science News for December 4, 2015


Brain scans explain quickness to blame

The study found that people use two different mechanisms to judge intentionality, relying on emotion for negative outcomes and statistics for positive outcomes. Brain scans revealed differences in brain activity between individuals with different personality traits and psychological measures.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 4, 2015

Neuroscientists now can read the mind of a fly

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a technique that allows them to read the mind of a fly by lighting up active conversations between neurons during behaviors or sensory experiences. This can provide valuable insights into the computational processes underlying human brain function.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 4, 2015

Nanoscale drawbridges open path to color displays

Researchers at Rice University develop a new method for building 'drawbridges' between metal nanoparticles, allowing for the creation of full-color displays. The technique involves anchoring pairs of gold nanoparticles to a glass surface and applying a small voltage to create a conductive silver bridge that can be switched on and off.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 4, 2015

Rudeness at work is contagious

Research at Lund University finds that 75% of employees experience rudeness, leading to stronger social support and increased risk of bullying; training for staff and managers is key to addressing unpleasant behavior.

SourceLund University·JournalBioMed Research International·DateDec 4, 2015

No two faces are the same

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that the causes of congenital face blindness can be traced back to an early stage in the perceptual process. People with this condition are unable to use facial features to identify others, but their brains respond differently when shown a face.

Montefiore-Einstein Investigators present research at 2015 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting

Researchers from Montefiore-Einstein Center for Cancer Care presented findings on genetic risk factors, preleukemic states, and novel treatments for acute myeloid leukemia. They identified a genetic risk factor for avascular necrosis associated with treatment of ALL in children and demonstrated that moderate PU.1 inhibition can drive m...

GM mice reveal the secret to a painless life

Scientists have discovered a potential solution to chronic pain by identifying the key ingredient responsible for painlessness in people born with a rare genetic mutation. By combining low-dose opioids with Nav1.7 blockers, researchers hope to replicate the effect and develop new treatments for millions of patients worldwide.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 4, 2015

Signaling pathway suppresses brain tumors

A recent study published in Cancer Cell found that a key signaling pathway present in most organisms actually suppresses the formation of specific types of brain tumor, including gliomas. This discovery has significant implications for glioma treatment and diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCancer Cell·DateDec 4, 2015

Jewish cuisine punching above its paunch

A study by Professor Olivier Bauer found that Montreal's culinary heritage is influenced by Jewish cultural heritage, with bagels and smoked meat becoming iconic symbols of the city. The researcher notes that these foods have become popular among workers and tourists alike, despite their Jewish origins.