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Wednesday 17 July 2013

Postcard of the Interwebs - 17 July 2013

Depression linked to an Abnormal Circadian Rhythm: One of the many interesting articles that I've read of where researchers were investigating one thing and discovered something else that is as or more important than the original research. Scientists discover that they can determine the death of a person by studying the amount of on or off state of particular genes in the brain. In a depressed mind it is skewed as the genes used to determine death are based on proper sleep cycles, something depressed persons usually do not have. This led the scientists to determine that light activity and better rest could reset the cycle, as it does for those with jet lag, and help with those who have depression break the cycle.

Alligators can help Dentists: Because of the regenerative ability of alligators to make new teeth, scientists are working on using the three stages of tooth growth (tooth, replacement tooth and dental lamina) to see if the same can be done for humans to regrow healthy teeth. They are also trying to see if this can be applied to bone growth in general.

Awesome Rug: I'd really like a rug like this.

Ancient Roman Concrete better than Modern Concrete: By using volcanic ash Roman concrete used less heat and chemicals to make their concrete. It also has withstood over two thousand years of use. It is also extremely durable in water. Volcanic ash is also ever renewable on the surface of the Earth.

Changes in Brain Chemistry Sustain Obesity: A study at Brown university found out why obese people have such a hard time loosing weight. Its because their brain chemistry changes to prevent the hormone that allows the burning of calories and curbing of the appetite. This hormone is Leptin and although they were able to break the cycle with drugs, these drugs are not approved for human use because of possible side effects. Give the pharmaceutical companies a few years and there could be a cure for obesity. For those who are not there yet studies have shown that moderate eating, moderate exercise and good sleep habits go a long way to keeping people fit and healthy.

Kitten smelling flowers: A very cute picture.

A new type of wheel: Inventor David Patrick took an idea of making a better wheel into a full concept with the help of Kickstarter. He is getting more funding by making skateboard wheels but this could have far reaching implications for all vehicles to better navigate all types of terrain and conditions. This is because the shape of the wheel allows it to be more stable.

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