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Science News Archive July 2017 - Page 37


Page 37 of 37

Flipping the switch on height variation

A study by Harvard University found a genetic 'switch' that controls the activity of a key skeletal gene related to height, which is also linked to an increased risk of osteoarthritis. The variant, more prevalent in Eurasian populations, favors shortness and is associated with lower GDF5 activity in growth plates.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 3, 2017

Blood of SIDS infants contains high levels of serotonin

A study funded by NIH found that 31% of SIDS infants had elevated serotonin levels in their blood, suggesting an underlying vulnerability to the condition. Researchers propose testing blood samples for serotonin to distinguish SIDS cases from other infant deaths, but caution that more research is needed.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 3, 2017

Seeing the colored light: Bee brains open way for better cameras

Researchers discovered a new mechanism for processing color information in honeybees, which could improve color constancy in imaging systems. The study found that the bees' ocelli contain two color receptors that can detect ambient light color, allowing them to discount naturally colored illumination and perceive true colors.

SourceRMIT University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 3, 2017

Shingles increases risk of heart attack, stroke

Contracting shingles significantly raises the risk of stroke and heart attack, according to a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Patients with shingles are more likely to have common risk factors for cardiovascular events, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 3, 2017

Mount Sinai researchers develop technique to monitor laryngeal & vagus nerves in surgery

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have developed a novel technique to continuously monitor laryngeal and vagus nerve function during otolaryngology and neurosurgery procedures. This non-invasive method uses a special breathing tube to stimulate and record nerve responses, allowing surgeons to adjust their approach in real-time.