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Science News Archive March 2015 - Page 34


Page 34 of 38

Galactic 'rain' could be key to star formation

A team of astronomers has found that galactic 'rain' may be the key to understanding why some galaxies are more productive at creating stars than others. The researchers analyzed X-rays from over 200 galaxy clusters using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and discovered that massive black holes can slow down gas that helps form stars.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2015

History holds valuable lessons in the war on drugs

This groundbreaking research sheds light on the complex origins of drug policies that have inspired murderous violence in Mexico and the US. By examining the history of drugs in Latin America, researchers offer new perspectives on how societies have dealt with drugs and their cultural significance.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalHispanic American Historical Review·DateMar 4, 2015

Often-ignored glucose value in routine blood tests correlates with risk of type 2 diabetes

A study from UT Southwestern Medical Center found that a single elevated random blood glucose value is a strong risk factor for diabetes. Individuals with values above 100 mg/dL were up to 30 times more likely to have undiagnosed diabetes, highlighting the importance of considering these often-overlooked values.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateMar 4, 2015

Next-generation sequencing and Droplet Digital™ PCR accurately determine copy number states for multiallelic copy number variations

Researchers used next-generation sequencing and Bio-Rad's Droplet Digital PCR technology to accurately count diverse copy number states of multiallelic copy number variations (mCNVs) in humans. The study found that mCNVs are responsible for nearly 90% of observed differences in gene copy number, contributing substantially to gene expre...

SourceCG Life·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 3, 2015

Grand tree of life study shows a clock-like trend in new species emergence and diversity

A massive study reveals life has been expanding at a constant rate, with new species emerging every 2 million years on average. The 'Time Tree of Life' challenges the traditional notion that adaptation drives speciation, instead highlighting the importance of random genetic events and geographic isolation.

Women in business

A UC Santa Barbara study finds that people systematically discount the competence of female entrepreneurs and investment-worthiness of their enterprises, but innovation mitigates this bias. Women-led businesses pitched innovative ideas are rated more competent and worthy of investment than non-innovative counterparts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalSocial Forces·DateMar 3, 2015

A high-salt diet could protect against invading microbes

A study published in Cell Metabolism reveals that a high-salt diet can increase sodium accumulation in the skin, boosting the immune response to skin-infecting parasites. This finding suggests that dietary salt may have therapeutic potential in promoting host defense against microbial infections.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 3, 2015

Lightning plus volcanic ash makes glass

Researchers have discovered a mechanism for generating glass spherules through the combination of lightning and volcanic ash. The study, published in Geology, reveals that high heat generated by lightning discharge can transform volcanic ash particles into spheres of glass, forming fulgurites in geologic deposits.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 3, 2015

Study identifies first-ever human population adaptation to toxic chemical, arsenic

A study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution identifies a key set of nucleotide variants in the AS3MT gene, which are associated with increased resistance to arsenic. These protective variants were found at higher frequencies in Andean women, who have been exposed to high levels of arsenic for thousands of years.

Global studies in Health Affairs' March issue

A global review of health issues highlights the UK's National Health Service (NHS) reduced spending on low-value procedures, while sub-Saharan Africans rate their health among the lowest in the world. The study also suggests that US cancer care may provide less value compared to Western Europe.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 3, 2015