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Science News Archive April 2016 - Page 22


Page 22 of 39

Coding and computers help spot methane, explosives

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new technology using coded apertures to improve the performance of mass spectrometers, enabling portable devices to detect environmental hazards in the field. The innovation could lead to miniaturized mass spectrometers for detecting trace amounts of methane and explosives.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Mass Spectrometry·DateApr 14, 2016

Is risk-taking behavior contagious?

Researchers found that observing others' risk-taking behavior changes one's own attitude towards risk, with the brain responding to this change in activity levels. The study also found that participants could learn and predict the risk-taking preferences of an observed peer.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2016

Study reveals substantial reductions in years lived without disability and overall life expectancy for men and women with diabetes

Research published in Diabetologia found that people with diabetes face reduced overall life expectancy and higher numbers of years living with disability compared to those without diabetes. The study estimated a loss of 3-9 years of life expectancy and 8-9 years of disability-free life expectancy for men and women with diabetes.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateApr 14, 2016

A new system for color vision

Researchers found a previously unknown type of neuron called J-RGCs that signal color to the brain by comparing signals from ultraviolet cones and rods. This discovery may help explain why humans perceive the color blue in dim light, as proposed by Van Gogh's Starry Night painting.

Study unveils novel crosstalk mechanism between mitochondrial translation and cytoplasmic translation

A recent study reveals a novel crosstalk mechanism between mitochondrial translation and cytoplasmic translation, essential for spermatogenesis. The mTOR signaling pathway helps balance the dynamic between mitochondrial translation and cytoplasmic translation, preventing negative impacts on protein quality and half-life.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateApr 14, 2016

Plants force fungal partners to behave fairly

In a groundbreaking study, researchers found that plants deliberately choose which fungal partners to provide with more nutrients, effectively forcing the less cooperative partner to supply more phosphates. This market-based process allows for optimal resource allocation and increased plant productivity.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalEcology Letters·DateApr 14, 2016

Juvenile offenders probably more criminal to begin with

A new study by Duke University researchers found that adult-onset offenders have a history of anti-social behavior from childhood and are more likely to struggle with mental health issues. The study, which tracked nearly 1,000 New Zealanders, suggests that the court system may not be addressing the root causes of crime in adults.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Criminal Justice·DateApr 14, 2016

A 'pause button' for cells

Scientists have created an optogenetic process that inhibits intracellular membrane vesicle trafficking, effectively pausing cellular activity. This innovation enables the observation and control of cell membranes, opening up new avenues for studying diseases like neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 14, 2016

Scientists develop recipe for testosterone-producing cells

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have discovered a way to encourage adult stem cells to proliferate and differentiate into testosterone-producing cells. The findings could lead to the development of transplantable cells that can produce testosterone, avoiding side effects associated with current treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2016

Scientists report on novel method for extending the life of implantable devices in situ

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center report a breakthrough in extending the life of implantable devices by rapidly regenerating molecular constituents in situ. The new approach, using an enzyme called Staphylococcus aureus Sortase A, enables repeated regeneration of bioactive films without device removal.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2016