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Friedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena


Movement without muscles

Researchers identify epithelial cells as key to sponge movement, contradicting long-held assumption about muscle cell origins. The study uses 3D imaging to visualize sponges' contracted and expanded states, revealing a new understanding of the evolutionary development of musculature.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMay 12, 2011

How children learn to say 'no'

A new study shows that the IPSY program, a life skills program for children, reduces alcohol and nicotine abuse among school children. The program boosts self-confidence in girls and improves communication skills in boys, making them less susceptible to peer pressure.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalThe Journal of Early Adolescence·DateApr 19, 2011

Fountain of youth from the tap

Researchers found a correlation between lithium levels in tap water and lower mortality rates in Japanese municipalities. In experiments with the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans, lithium treatment led to increased longevity. The findings suggest that low-dose lithium may have life-prolonging effects in humans.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateFeb 18, 2011

Typically Italian, isn't it?

Researchers found that accents were more important than physical appearance when categorizing people. The study showed that participants primarily relied on the spoken accent while assigning statements to depicted persons. This highlights the significance of language in social integration and ethnic categorization.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 17, 2010

AFM tips from the microwave

Scientists from Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena developed a new process to grow carbon nanotubes on scanning probe tips, utilizing microwave radiation for rapid growth. The method improves the fabrication of sharp atomic force microscopy tips, reducing costs and enabling routine measurements.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 21, 2010

Cartilage comeback

Materials scientists from Jena University have created a cellulose implant that can trigger the regeneration of cartilage produced naturally in the body. The implant, which consists of a sponge-like structure with two different surfaces, is designed to adhere to bone and stimulate cartilage growth.

Do words hurt?

Researchers at Jena University found that verbal stimuli can activate the pain matrix in the brain, activating areas that process pain. The study used functional magnetic resonance tomography (fMRT) to investigate how healthy subjects process words associated with experiencing pain.