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Rutgers University


Working to loosen the grip of severe mental illness

A Rutgers researcher discovered consistent brain patterns in the human brain, regardless of activity level, which could lead to a better understanding of serious mental health conditions. The study's findings suggest that the prefrontal cortex, involved in high-level thinking, may be altered in people with severe mental illness.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 10, 2014

Are squiggly lines the future of password security?

A new study by Rutgers University researchers found that free-form gestures on smartphones can be used to unlock phones and grant access to apps, making them harder for hackers to steal passwords. The gestures were shown to be more secure than traditional typed passwords or newer 'connect-the-dots' grid exercises.

Protein Data Bank: 100,000 structures

The Protein Data Bank has surpassed 100,000 entries, providing a wealth of structural data for researchers to understand biological mechanisms and discover new medicines. The archive's growth is driven by the efforts of structural biologists worldwide, who continue to deposit new structures and improve the resource.

Lowering your cholesterol may improve your sex life

A new Rutgers study suggests that statin medication can not only lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke but also improve a man's erectile function. The researchers found that older men with poor cardiovascular health, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome often experience erectile dysfunction.

SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateMar 31, 2014

Obesity and depression linked in teen girls says new Rutgers-Camden study

A new study by Rutgers University–Camden professor Naomi Marmorstein found that depression in early adolescence predicts obesity in late adolescence among female participants. Conversely, obesity in late adolescence predicts the onset of depression in early adulthood. The study suggests a reciprocal relationship between the two disorde...

SourceRutgers University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMar 21, 2014

Cockroach never seen before in US is identified in New York

Rutgers researchers confirm presence of Periplaneta japonica, a species well-documented in Asia, which can survive freezing temperatures and outdoor conditions. The new species was first spotted in New York in 2012 and is not expected to pose an alarm, but may compete with existing cockroach species for space and food.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateDec 8, 2013

Of hurricanes, fungus and Parkinson's disease

Researchers found that a volatile organic compound emitted by fungi, 1-octen-3-ol, attacks genes responsible for dopamine transport and packaging, leading to Parkinson's-like symptoms in fruit flies. The study suggests a potential link between fungal exposure and the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2013

Autism and language impairment genetically linked

Researchers found a strong genetic connection between family members with autism and those with specific language impairment, characterized by speech and language difficulties. The study suggests that genes responsible for oral and written language impairments can result in similar behavioral characteristics.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateOct 30, 2013