Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Wise plant analysis

A new method of plant analysis has identified more than twenty metabolites in tomatoes that had never been reported before, including certain antioxidants in the skin. The Weizmann team's tools, WeizMass and MatchWeiz, can help study plant metabolism and identify useful biological activity

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2016

How Zika infects the growing brain

Researchers at Harvard University and Novartis have discovered that Zika virus can infect neural progenitor cells by grabbing onto a specific protein called AXL on the cell surface. This finding contradicts previous studies suggesting that targeting the AXL protein alone could defend against the virus.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 1, 2016

Brain pattern flexibility and behavior

A study analyzing brain region connectivity found that people with more flexible brain states perform better on executive-function tasks. The researchers discovered five general brain patterns, with those in the most flexible states excelling in high-level cognition.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalNeuroImage·DateNov 29, 2016

Scientists reconstruct formation of the southern Appalachians

A team of geophysicists has reconstructed the terminal phase of the collision between North America and Gondwana, revealing a 300km-long shear zone that stretches from Alabama to Florida. This discovery provides new insights into the formation of the southern Appalachians and has implications for understanding mountain-building processes.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeology·DateNov 21, 2016

Successful infographics

A new study identified four key features of successful infographics: an action-oriented title, short text, clear language, and an illustrated direct course of action. These dimensions were found to be significant in persuading viewers and promoting healthy changes.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateOct 19, 2016

The mathematics of music history

A study by Aarhus University researchers analyzed musical themes from French, Italian, and Austro-German composers. The findings support historical musicology assumptions about national influences on European music culture, showing that North-Italian music dominated Europe during the Baroque Era.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMusic Perception An Interdisciplinary Journal·DateOct 6, 2016

A more accurate sensor for lead paint

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new molecular gel recipe that enables accurate detection of lead in paint chips. The test uses heat and chemical reactions to distinguish between safe and hazardous levels of lead, making it easier for homeowners to assess their risk.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 8, 2016

Towards better treatment of cystitis

Scientists discovered the mechanism behind E. coli's ability to spread and cause cystitis by developing an artificial bladder model. The research found that the bacteria alter their form to become long and thin, improving their attachment to the bladder wall and evading immune response. This discovery offers hope for new treatment stra...

Study finds bias, disgust toward mixed-race couples

Research from University of Washington suggests that despite high levels of reported acceptance, bias against mixed-race couples persists in the US. The study found a strong negative correlation between bias and disgust, as well as activation in the insula brain region when viewing images of interracial couples.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateAug 17, 2016