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Science News Archive October 2016 - Page 32


Page 32 of 44

Different brain atrophy patterns may explain variability in Alzheimer's disease symptoms

Researchers identified three distinct brain atrophy patterns associated with cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment. The study found that these patterns, including cortical, temporal, and subcortical atrophy, can predict cognitive deficits and may allow for earlier diagnosis and treatment.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2016

Transcendental Meditation reduces stress and trauma in prisoners, fosters transformation

Prisoners show significant reductions in trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, dissociation, and sleep disturbance after practicing Transcendental Meditation. The study found a 47% reduction in total trauma symptoms and improved physiological functioning, suggesting TM as an alternative treatment for posttraumatic stress.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalThe Permanente Journal·DateOct 7, 2016

Weethinking the role of bacteria in incontinence

A new study from Oregon Health and Science University suggests that the type of bacteria present in the urinary tract may play a role in general health conditions like Urgency Urinary Incontinence (UUI). Women with UUI tend to have fewer diverse bacterial communities, while those with lower diversity experience more severe symptoms.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateOct 7, 2016

Concentrating on the social billions

Researchers have found that frequent users of online social media do not experience decreased attention spans or sociability compared to occasional users. The study suggests that modern communication tools do not interfere with primal instincts, such as long-term attitudes and concentration.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Social Media and Interactive Learning Environments·DateOct 7, 2016

RNA, gravitational waves focus of two new grants

Four Penn State researchers have been awarded a total of $450,000 by the Charles E. Kaufman Foundation to study RNA and its processes, as well as real-time gravitational wave detection. The research aims to advance methods for determining RNA structure in living cells and improve prospects for multi-messenger astrophysics.

Toward 'greener,' inexpensive solar cells

Scientists have made a significant advance toward more practical, environmentally friendly solar cells using inexpensive halide perovskite materials. The new cells have a power conversion efficiency of 15 percent and contain 60% less lead than traditional cells, representing a major step towards sustainable energy solutions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 7, 2016

Taking stock of charcoal in the world's soil

Researchers at the University of Zurich have created the world's first global PyC database, revealing charcoal is a major component of soil worldwide. The study found PyC represents more than half of the organic matter identified, with agricultural land and high pH soils retaining it best.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·DateOct 7, 2016

Magma movements foretell future eruptions

Researchers from Uppsala University have analyzed crystals from recent eruptions to understand magma plumbing systems beneath Mt. Cameroon volcano. The findings suggest that shallow magma pockets play a crucial role in priming the volcano for eruption, increasing the likelihood of explosive eruptions.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 7, 2016

Great apes can 'read minds'

Researchers found great apes can predict false beliefs and actions, similar to human infants, indicating a shared cognitive skill that may be millions of years old. This challenges the notion of human exceptionalism and opens up new avenues for studying animal cognition.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience·DateOct 7, 2016

Ethosomes as vesicles for effective transdermal delivery: From bench to clinical implementation

Research highlights ethosomes as a promising nanocarrier system for efficient transdermal drug delivery. The article presents various preclinical and clinical studies showcasing the enhanced absorption and bioavailability of antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory drugs, and CNS acting compounds upon loading into ethosomes.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Clinical Pharmacology·DateOct 7, 2016

Study challenges idea of mandatory water intake

A Monash University study revealed a 'swallowing inhibition' mechanism in the human body to regulate fluid intake and prevent over-drinking. The research showed that drinking too much water can cause potentially fatal water intoxication, highlighting the importance of listening to thirst cues rather than following an elaborate schedule.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2016