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University of Washington


Global warming not just a blanket -- in the long run, it's more like tanning oil

A new study from the University of Washington and MIT reveals that global warming is not solely caused by carbon dioxide's 'blanket' effect, but also involves shortwave radiation. The research shows how CO2 initially traps heat, but as the planet warms, it absorbs more solar radiation, leading to continued warming.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2014

Zebrafish stripped of stripes

Scientists have discovered the role of thyroid hormone in the formation of zebrafish stripes and have found that cells responsible for producing orange color can transform into xanthophores through a process called 'transdifferentiation'. This finding could provide clues to regeneration of tissues and organs without stem cells.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2014

Migrating animals' pee affects ocean chemistry

Researchers found that migrating animals release ammonia, which plays a significant role in shaping marine chemistry, particularly in low-oxygen zones. The study reveals that animal behavior on a large scale influences the ocean's chemistry, with implications for predicting ocean changes under climate change.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 9, 2014

Toddlers regulate behavior to avoid making adults angry

Researchers found that toddlers use visual and social cues to understand the motivations of people around them, and their impulsive tendencies influence their behavior. The study suggests that early self-control skills are crucial for children's development, with individual variability predicting later school readiness and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalCognitive Development·DateOct 7, 2014

Snow has thinned on Arctic sea ice

Research confirms significant thinning of Arctic sea ice snow, particularly in the Beaufort and Chukchi seas, with results showing a decline of 14 inches to 9 inches (35 cm to 22 cm) in western waters near Alaska. Thinner snow cover may impact ice thickness and ecosystem health.

Companion planets can increase old worlds' chance at life

Researchers found that an outer companion planet's gravitational pull can generate tidal heating, extending the habitable zone and potentially allowing older Earth-sized planets to host life. The study suggests that discovering such planets may lead to finding inner companion worlds, increasing their chance at hosting life.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 31, 2014

Foul fumes derail dinner for hungry moths

Researchers found that natural plant odors and human sources of pollution can conceal the scent of sought-after flowers, leading to energy and time losses for pollinators. The study used a chemical detection device to track flower odors in the wild and showed remarkable similar results in a lab wind tunnel test.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2014

Ferroelectric switching seen in biological tissues

University of Washington researchers have confirmed the presence of ferroelectric switching in biological tissues, particularly in proteins found in organs that repeatedly stretch and retract. This phenomenon may help build and support healthy connective tissues in mammals and potentially detect early stages of hardening of arteries.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2014

PTSD treatment cost-effective when patients given choice

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that letting patients choose their PTSD treatment can lead to significant cost savings and a higher quality of life. The study showed that patients who were allowed to select their own treatment spent an average of $1,622 less per year compared to those who were assig...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateMay 28, 2014

Suspect strep throat? Re-check negative rapid test results with lab culture

A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that nearly seven million Americans seek medical attention for sore throats each year, with one in 10 cases being strep throat. The researchers concluded that performing a laboratory culture can help doctors and patients avoid both under-treatment and over-treatment of sore throats.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMay 28, 2014