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Within a cell, actin keeps things moving

Actin's behavior has been studied using inhibitory agents and hormones to induce a state of fluctuation in yeast cells. The findings suggest that mitochondria recruit actin-related proteins to assemble into extended fractal-like structures, coordinating movement and supporting the idea that intracellular transport is achieved through a...

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2009

New tool isolates RNA within specific cells

Researchers at the University of Oregon have developed a new method to isolate RNA from specific cells using a chemically modified gene from Toxoplasma gondii. This approach allows for precise study of gene expression and cellular differences, opening up new avenues for research in development, neurobiology, and disease studies.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 18, 2009

Doubts make consumers more willing to re-evaluate brands, study finds

A study by Sharon Shavitt found that consumers are more open to new marketing messages if they feel a sense of difficulty when thinking about brands. This can lead to a more favorable view of the brand. Consumers with the greatest need for closure were most likely to reevaluate brands after facing difficulties.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateJan 5, 2009

Where Hispanics live in the US may change over time

A study finds that White and Black Hispanics in the US are more likely to integrate with non-Hispanic Whites and African Americans, while Mexicans show consistent generational assimilation. This trend suggests a decrease in racial segregation and an increase in integration over time.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateOct 17, 2008

When to have a child? A new approach to the decision

Researchers developed a logical decision model to help women weigh the benefits of motherhood against its effects on career and social interests. The model suggests that having a child at a younger age may be better for women in their early careers, as taking a maternity leave has less impact on future career prospects.

SourceDuke University·JournalDecision Analysis·DateNov 7, 2007

Duck-billed dino crests not linked to sense of smell

A University of Toronto study has ruled out the theory that duck-billed dinosaurs' crests were linked to their sense of smell. The research, led by David Evans, found that the brain changed little from non-crested dinosaur ancestors, suggesting the crests may have been used for visual display or attracting mates.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPaleobiology·DateJan 24, 2006

Lifting the pressure on holiday party perfectionists

Perfectionists experience anxiety and depression when minor hassles pile up during the holidays. To mitigate this, Blankstein suggests planning ahead, involving others in tasks, and accepting help from loved ones. His study based on 443 university students provides valuable insights into perfectionism's impact on mental health.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Counseling Psychology·DateDec 11, 2000

Teens can help design school obesity programs

The study suggests that teenagers' recommendations can inform effective school-based obesity prevention programs, prioritizing fun and interactive activities over weight control. Schools can also create support groups specifically for overweight youth, leveraging their resources to provide low-cost programs.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateMay 1, 2000

College men nearly as likely as women to report they are victims of unwanted sexual coercion

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington found that nearly half of college students reported experiencing unwanted sexual contact or coercion. The study revealed that men were just as likely as women to report being victims of unwanted sexual contact, and those who experienced it showed similar symptoms o...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalSex Roles·DateJul 26, 1999

Stiffening The Spines Of Large Space Structures

A Stanford doctoral student has developed a dynamic control system that uses Global Positioning System signals to actively control errant oscillations in large space structures. The system can detect centimeter-level precision and automatically fire thrusters to compensate for wayward motions, allowing for stable structure operation.