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Science News Archive January 2017 - Page 4


Page 4 of 35

Deciphering the emergence of neuronal diversity

Neuroscientists at the University of Geneva have identified three main sub-groups of inhibitory interneurons in the cortex by analyzing cell-type specific genes and their expression patterns. These findings will aid in understanding neuro-developmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2017

High-altitude living decreases the risk of heart disease

A study published in Frontiers in Physiology found that people living at higher altitudes (457-2297 meters) had a lower risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome, which contributes to heart disease and diabetes. The research suggests that high-altitude living may help improve heart and lung function, insulin sensitivity, and weight loss.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJan 30, 2017

A better way to farm algae

A new technology for energy-efficient cultivation and harvesting of microalgae has been developed by Bendy Estime, improving growth rates up to 10 times larger than traditional methods. The Tris-Acetate-Phosphate-Pluronic medium allows algae to grow in clusters without sticking to container walls, eliminating the need for constant stir...

SourceSyracuse University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 30, 2017

Cardiovascular disease-related hospital admissions jump on second day after major snowfall

A new study found that hospital admissions for cardiovascular diseases decline on snowy days but surge 23% two days later, according to a Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study. The researchers analyzed data from four major Boston hospitals and found cold-weather-related disease admissions increased by 3.7% on high snowfall days.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateJan 30, 2017

Nature-based sunscreens

Scientists have introduced a new family of UVA and UVB filters inspired by natural sunscreen substances found in algae and cyanobacteria. These molecules are highly stable, enhance commercial sunscreen effectiveness, and offer improved sun protection factor.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 30, 2017

CAS scientists discover BCAS2 involved in alternative mRNA splicing in spermatogonia and the transit to meiosis

Researchers from Chinese Academy of Sciences found that BCAS2 plays a crucial role in alternative mRNA splicing during mouse spermatogenesis, leading to impaired meiosis initiation. The study provides evidence for the importance of alternative splicing machinery in regulating germ cell development.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2017

Sciences for art

Researchers propose using portable instruments, spectroscopic techniques, and weathering cells to develop strategies for better artwork preservation. Non-invasive techniques like X-ray radiography, infrared photography, and X-ray fluorescence enable the detailed investigation of historical paints' chemical composition.

SourceWiley·JournalChemViews·DateJan 27, 2017

Beetles born on the edge make invasion faster

Researchers found that generations born on the leading edge of an invasion can push forward more than those born further back due to evolutionary advantages. This discovery has implications for agriculture and natural resource management as invasive species spread faster and farther.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2017

Old enzyme, new role

A team of researchers at UD has discovered a new function for an enzyme involved in bacterial metabolism. They found that the enzyme plays a major role when generating sugars from non-sugar substrates and facilitates 'back-flow' even when sugar is being consumed.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2017

Stem cell secretions may protect against glaucoma

Researchers have discovered that stem cell secretions, called exosomes, can promote survival of retinal ganglion cells in rats, which could lead to potential therapies for glaucoma. The study found that exosome-treated retinal ganglion cells maintained function and lost fewer cells after optic nerve injury.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJan 27, 2017