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Science News Archive August 2013 - Page 26


Page 26 of 29

More intestinal cells than thought can absorb larger particles

Scientists discovered that enterocytes play a significant role in absorbing relatively large particles, challenging conventional wisdom and offering new avenues for increasing the absorption of medicines taken by mouth. The study found that between 10-50% of spheres were absorbed via endocytosis in cells called enterocytes.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2013

The doctor will email you now

A study by Weill Cornell Medicine found that patients and health organizations favor electronic communications, but physicians face barriers such as lack of compensation and increased workload. The study identified successful examples of medical groups using electronic communication to improve access to care and communication with pati...

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 5, 2013

Necrostatin-1 counteracts aluminum's neurotoxic effects

New study links aluminum accumulation to neuronal cell death and identifies necrostatin-1 as a substance that counteracts aluminum's neurotoxic effects. In mice treated with aluminum, Nec-1 demonstrated strong protection against cell death and improved cognitive function.

SourceIOS Press·JournalResuscitation·DateAug 5, 2013

Odd Martian crater type made by impacts into ancient ice

Researchers at Brown University propose that double-layered ejecta craters on Mars were formed when impacts blasted through ancient glacial ice, creating a two-layered appearance. The model explains distinct features of the craters, including radial striations and their locations at middle or high latitudes.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 5, 2013

Mindfulness meditation IBMT trims craving for tobacco

A new study found that mindfulness meditation, known as Integrative Body-Mind Training (IBMT), significantly reduced smoking in smokers by 60 percent. The training improved self-control pathways related to addiction, leading to increased activity in areas such as the anterior cingulate cortex and medial prefrontal cortex.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2013

Proteins hoist the anchor

Scientists successfully reproduce protein recycling process, tracing Rab's extraction from lipid membrane. The study reveals GDI protein's active role in recycling Rab proteins, shedding light on disease-relevant interactions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2013

Scientists learn how soy foods protect against colon cancer

University of Illinois scientists have found that lifelong exposure to genistein, a bioactive component in soy foods, protects against colon cancer. The study suggests that a diet rich in soy genistein represses signals through epigenetic modifications, reducing the number of pre-cancerous lesions and abnormal cell growth.

Young vs. old: Who performs more consistently?

Researchers found that older adults showed less day-to-day variability in cognitive performance compared to younger adults. The study suggests that learned strategies, motivation levels, and daily routines contribute to the consistency of older adults' cognitive abilities. This finding has implications for workplace productivity and ag...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 5, 2013

Social status and power of action of speakers determine the way their statements are perceived

A study published in PLOS ONE found that listeners' brain reactions differ depending on the speaker's perceived ability to act upon their words. Researchers used EEG recordings to compare reactions to statements made by influential and non-influential speakers, revealing a significant impact of social status on neural responses.

Distinct brain disorders biologically linked

A rare genetic deletion of the TOP3B gene has been identified as a common biological pathway for both schizophrenia and a learning disorder associated with autism, increasing susceptibility by two-fold. The study uncovers an important biological process underlying these brain disorders, potentially leading to new drug targets.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 4, 2013

Materials break, then remake, bonds to build strength

Scientists have developed a new material that can strengthen itself in response to stress, similar to how muscles build strength through exercise. The material, inspired by weightlifting and Silly Putty, can transform from a liquid to a solid state, becoming stronger with each cycle of stress.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 4, 2013

Cobalt replacements make solar cells more sustainable

Researchers at the University of Basel have successfully replaced iodine in copper-based dye-sensitized solar cells with cobalt, increasing sustainability and improving long-term stability. This breakthrough uses a systems chemistry approach to optimize molecular components, paving the way for environmentally friendly energy production.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalChemical Communications·DateAug 2, 2013

Baby owls sleep like baby humans

Researchers discovered baby owls spend large amounts of time in REM sleep, similar to human infants, and this changes as they age. The team also found a link between the expression of a melanism-related gene and sleep patterns, suggesting that brain development may influence adult traits.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateAug 2, 2013

Why is orange the new black for female victims of trauma?

Researchers found that intimate partner violence increases risk for property crimes, drug offending, and commercial sex work. Witnessing violence also contributes to property crimes, fighting, and use of weapons. Women who experienced caregiver violence are more likely to run away as teens.

SourceSAGE·JournalPsychology of Women Quarterly·DateAug 2, 2013