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Science News Archive November 2015 - Page 27


Page 27 of 35

First synthetic model of bacteria outer membrane

Researchers created a synthetic model of E. coli's outer membrane, providing unprecedented access to its structure and dynamics. The model was used to test how antibiotic molecules can cross the critical barrier, which is highly impermeable to incoming molecules.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 6, 2015

Mucus -- the first line of defense

Research at Lund University reveals that mucus in the saliva stimulates white blood cells to form effective nets of DNA and proteins, capturing and killing bacteria. Patients with aphthous stomatitis and Behçet's disease often lack saliva with this property, highlighting a potential link between mucus and these diseases.

SourceLund University·JournalBlood·DateNov 6, 2015

Gut microbiota regulates antioxidant metabolism

A study published in Molecular Systems Biology reveals that gut microbiota regulates glutathione and amino acid metabolism in mice, which may contribute to the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other diseases. The research also highlights the potential for probiotics to deliver beneficial bacteria to the gut and prevent meta...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateNov 6, 2015

Unlocking the mysteries of 'little starlets'

Researchers recreated conditions inside brown dwarfs using a powerful laser, shedding light on their formation and properties. The findings pave the way for further understanding of these mysterious celestial objects, which are difficult to spot due to their small size and cool temperatures.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2015

When less is really more

A new study reveals that hepcidin, a protein regulating iron absorption, can inhibit the body's ability to absorb iron supplements in quantities necessary and desirable. The researchers suggest waiting longer between doses may improve iron absorption efficiency and reduce side effects.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalBlood·DateNov 6, 2015

New way to find DNA damage

Researchers have developed a new way to detect chemical damage to DNA that can lead to genetic mutations and diseases. The method combines existing techniques to mark and copy DNA damage sites, preserving information on the location and type of damage.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2015

From starving chicks come fat birds

A Newcastle University study found that stressed baby starlings grow into fat and greedy adults, changing their eating behavior as a result. The research showed that chicks that faced greater competition for food as juveniles tend to overeat when presented with freely available food.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateNov 6, 2015

Adults' happiness on the decline

Researchers found that adults over age 30 are not happier than they used to be, but teens and young adults are experiencing higher levels of happiness. The study, led by San Diego State University professor Jean M. Twenge, analyzed data from four nationally representative samples of Americans ages 13 to 96.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateNov 5, 2015

Guides within electronic medical records during visits help doctors provide better care

Researchers found that embedded clinical practice guidelines in patient electronic medical records during outpatient visits improved the use of severity measurement tools, referrals to rehabilitation programs, inhaler education, and vaccinations among stable COPD patients. The intervention also led to better quality of care measures.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalRespiratory Medicine·DateNov 5, 2015