Tag Archive for 'Calcium'

In order to make artificial nacre, Spiesz et al use bacteria to create alternating thin layers of crystalized calcium carbonate and sticky polymer. Image credit: J. Adam Fenster / University of Rochester.

Biologists Use Bacteria to Make Artificial Mother-of-Pearl

Apr 23, 2019 by News Staff

Natural materials such as tooth enamel, nacre (also known as mother-of-pearl), or bone attain their impressive mechanical properties from combining organic...

Simplified pathway of vitamin D metabolism with a suggested approach to manage hypervitaminosis D. Key steps include the following: limit sun exposure; stop oral vitamin D supplements; use medications such as corticosteroids, ketoconazole and hydroxychloroquine to block 1α-hydroxylase activity; stop oral calcium supplements to reduce burden of hypercalcemia from hypervitaminosis D. Key enzymes involved in metabolism pathway are shown in green. Image credit: Auguste et al, doi: 10.1503/cmaj.180465 / Creativology / BSG Studio.

Taking Too Much Vitamin D Can Lead to Kidney Failure

Apr 9, 2019 by News Staff

Vitamin D — which exists in two forms: D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol) — helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in...

Everett et al scanned amyloid plaque cores using state-of-the-art X-ray microscopy to determine the chemical properties of the minerals within them. Image credit: University of Warwick.

Scientists Find Biogenic Iron Minerals in Amyloid Plaques of Alzheimer’s Patients

Jun 28, 2018 by News Staff

In brains affected by Alzheimer’s disease, an international group of scientists has identified several chemically-reduced iron species, with mineral...

Lee et al demonstrated that fruit flies are indifferent to low calcium (Ca2+) and averse to high levels. Image credit: Peter Allen.

Researchers Enhance Scientific Understanding of Calcium Taste

Jan 4, 2018 by News Staff

Though calcium taste doesn’t fit into the five established tastes the tongue’s receptors can identify, humans describe it as slightly bitter and sour....

Study: Happy Cows Make Better Milk

Jul 15, 2016 by News Staff

Daily infusions with serotonin, a naturally-occurring chemical associated with feelings of happiness, were shown to increase calcium levels in both the...