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Science News Archive November 2014 - Page 14


Page 14 of 31

Novel basic science tip sheet

Researchers found that a diet rich in plant-based flavonoids can help regulate the body's immune system response to fine particles in polluted air, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, a low-cost vaccine targeting PCSK9 has been shown to safely lower bad cholesterol levels in animal studies.

Datasets used by policymakers, scientists for public health analyses inconsistent

Researchers found significant differences between two commercially available datasets used to analyze the relationship between neighborhood socioeconomic characteristics and food and alcohol establishments. The study highlights the need for accurate data to support policy decisions on issues like incentives for grocery stores in econom...

Where will big neuroscience take us?

Several countries have launched brain research projects with big budgets and ambitious goals, aiming to make groundbreaking discoveries and develop new treatments for diseases. The initiatives are expected to drive rapid progress in the field of neuroscience, with a focus on global collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches.

Protecting forests alone would not halt land-use change emissions

A study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research found that forest protection policies alone will not reduce CO2 emissions from land-use change. Implementing comprehensive conservation schemes covering all land types is crucial, as intensifying agriculture can generate higher yields to compensate for reduced land availability.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 17, 2014

Densovirus named top suspect in devastating sea star wasting disease

A genomic analysis of a newly discovered virus prevalent in symptomatic sea stars has linked Sea Star Associated Densovirus to the devastating wasting disease, potentially triggering an unprecedented ecological upheaval. The research lays the groundwork for understanding how the virus kills sea stars and what triggers outbreaks.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2014

Tiny fish provides giant insight into how organisms adapt to changing environment

Researchers identify genes and networks that enable tiny Atlantic killifish to alter their body form in response to environmental changes, providing insight into phenotypic plasticity. The study's findings have substantial implications for understanding molecular evolution and its applications in climate change, medicine, and regenerat...

SourceIndiana University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 17, 2014

Climate capers of the past 600,000 years

The Lake Van drilling project provides a unique 600,000-year archive of climate fluctuations and natural hazards, including six cycles of warm and cold periods. The analysis reveals the region's high risk for earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateNov 17, 2014