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Science News Archive May 2014 - Page 8


Page 8 of 31

Blocking pain receptors found to extend lifespan in mammals

Researchers discovered that blocking pain receptors, specifically TRPV1, can extend lifespan in mice by promoting a youthful metabolism and reducing the risk of age-related diseases like diabetes. The study also found that diets rich in capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers, may help improve metabolic health and longevity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMay 22, 2014

Which way is up?

A new UCSB study shows that the protein E-cadherin promotes collective cell migration by guiding cells to move and migrate. The researchers used innovative experimental tools to measure forces on E-cadherin molecules, revealing a non-perturbing approach to understanding tissue morphology.

Male and female sex cell determination requires lifelong maintenance and protection

A study from the University of Minnesota found that sex-specific transcription factors perform lifelong work to maintain sexual determination and protect against reprogramming of cells. The researchers identified key transcription factors responsible for maintaining sexual differentiation, including DMRT1 and FOXL2.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Academic Health Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMay 22, 2014

Could cannabis curb seizures? Experts weed through the evidence

Studies suggest that medical marijuana and CBD may help reduce seizure frequency in patients with Dravet syndrome. However, current data is mostly anecdotal and not well-controlled. Researchers emphasize the need for rigorous investigation of medical marijuana's safety and efficacy before drawing conclusions.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateMay 22, 2014

Sincere family gift creates unique bridge between Tel Aviv University and University of Wisconsin

The Debra and Richard Sincere Tel Aviv University Project in Middle Eastern Studies will award substantial scholarships to outstanding doctoral students, fostering joint academic activities with the University of Wisconsin. The gift also supports research seminars, conferences, and faculty/student exchanges between the two institutions.

Bending helps to control nanomaterials

Bending nanomaterials can detach layers from each other, improving control over their electronic and optical properties. This discovery advances research in nanoelectronics and optoelectronics, allowing for more accurate interpretation and tuning of material properties.

Study of 850,000 people shows women with diabetes 44 percent more likely to develop coronary heart disease than men with diabetes

A systematic review and meta-analysis of over 850,000 people shows that women with diabetes are nearly three times more likely to develop coronary heart disease than women without diabetes. Men with diabetes are twice as likely to develop CHD. The study suggests that sex-specific interventions could improve the prevention of CHD.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateMay 22, 2014

Repeated sexual assault victims report more psychological problems than previously thought

Researchers have discovered that victims of repeated non-violent sexual assault experience higher levels of psychological distress and lower self-esteem compared to those who are violently raped. The study's findings highlight the importance of understanding patterns of sexual victimization to develop strategies to combat sexual assaul...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateMay 22, 2014

Not all diamonds are forever

Rice chemist Ed Billups and colleagues created nanodiamonds in hydrogenated anthracite coal, but smaller diamonds degraded with subsequent images taken under an electron microscope. The researchers found a window of stability for diamonds within a range of 19-52 angstroms.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMay 22, 2014

New insight into stem cell development

Researchers from University of Southern Denmark have discovered that proteins called transcription factors work together in a new and complex way to reprogram the DNA strand when a stem cell develops into a specific cell type. This discovery could lead to new ways of making stem cells develop into exactly the type of cells that a physi...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 22, 2014

New technology may help identify safe alternatives to BPA

Researchers have developed new tests to classify compounds' activity with great detail and speed, identifying safer replacements for BPA. The advance could offer a fast and cost-effective way to identify safe alternatives, as millions of tons of BPA and related compounds are produced each year.

SourceCell Press·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateMay 22, 2014

Patients with a certain form of kidney disease may have a reduced risk of cancer

Research suggests that patients with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) who undergo a kidney transplant may be less likely to develop cancer compared to those without PKD. The study found that PKD patients were 16% less likely to develop cancer than others who received a kidney transplant, and their overall cancer risk was 48% lower than ...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 22, 2014

Newborn health improves despite income gap

A review of recent economic research found that newborn health has improved nationally in recent years, with a decrease in low birth weight among disadvantaged mothers over the last 20 years. This improvement is attributed to increased public policies and programming aimed at improving prenatal and postnatal care.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience·DateMay 22, 2014

Eumelanin's secrets

Eumelanin, the primary pigment in human skin, hair, and eyes, has been found to absorb a broad spectrum of sunlight due to its unique physical arrangement. Researchers have identified that disorder in the material's structure plays a crucial role in its broadband blocking ability.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2014