Weekly science update: focus on biker safety, feline coloration, and connection between periodontal disease and heart rhythm.
It's time for our unfiltered science news roundup from the off-the-wall podcast, Short Wave. I'm your host with the most, Juana Summers, and I've got the show's fearless leaders, Regina Barber and Emily Kwong, here to spill the tea on the juiciest science scoops of the week. Let's dive right in!
First up, let's talk about those adorable, fiery-haired felines - the orange cats. Now, if you've ever wondered, is there a reason why these kitties sport their flaming hues, you're in luck. A genetic mutation, discovered this week, has finally shed some light on the mystery. This mutation, found at the X-linked ARHGAP36 gene locus, increases the gene's activity, leading to the production of reddish-yellow pigments in a cat's fur[1][5].
The concern for human genes has been nonexistent in our conversations, so let's dive deeper. Scientists found that male cats, with their single X and Y chromosomes, are more likely to inherit the mutated X and end up entirely orange, while female cats with two X chromosomes (and two opportunities to gain the mutation) are less likely to go full-on fiery[1][2][4]. It's a bit scientific, but it works, folks.
Now let's talk about the bikes. As you know, standard bikes are as dull as dishwater, but the scientists were like, "Hold my beer." They created a cool bike sensor called ProxiCycle to help cyclists avoid those pesky, speeding cars. During this study, bike sensors were deployed on 15 bikes and recorded over 2,000 close encounters with cars, thankfully, no collisions[2].
Knowing the risks of close passes, the smart cookies from the University of Washington want to aggregate more data from these sensors to build a map of safe bike routes, ultimately lowering the barrier to entry for city biking[1]. Sounds pretty incredible, right?
Lastly, brace yourselves, folks. If you've ever brushed your teeth and thought, "Damn, I could be avoiding a heart attack," you might be onto something. Gum disease has been linked to a higher risk of heart failure or a stroke. It gets better; a recent study has shown a strong connection between gum disease and the development of atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular heart rhythm[1]. The connection? Mouth bacteria making a beeline for your heart[3].
Researchers infected mice with a bacteria associated with gum disease and found that these mice developed AFib more easily than those without the bacteria[1]. Although some scientists have their doubts, it's safe to say that taking care of your oral health could help you avoid a ticker incident[1][3].
There you have it, folks! Those were the hottest sciencetastic nuggets of the week. Tune in to Short Wave for more new discoveries, everyday mysteries, and the science behind the headlines. Take care, and let's ride those bikes safe and sound[2].
[[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35026535][\<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/33048970][3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30628710]
- Science news from the podcast Short Wave reveals that a genetic mutation has been found at the X-linked ARHGAP36 gene locus, causing the production of reddish-yellow pigments in cats' fur, resulting in their fiery-red hair.
- Orange cats inherit the mutated X chromosome more often than female cats, as they have only one X chromosome.
- A cool bike sensor called ProxiCycle was developed to help cyclists avoid collisions with cars, and recorded over 2,000 close encounters with cars during the study.
- The University of Washington aims to gather more data from these bike sensors to build a map of safe bike routes in cities.
- Poor oral health, such as gum disease, has been linked to an increased risk of heart failure, stroke, and atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular heart rhythm.
- A study shows a strong connection between gum disease and the development of AFib, as mouth bacteria may make their way to the heart.
- Researchers found that mice infected with a bacteria associated with gum disease developed AFib more easily than those without the bacteria.
- Despite some skepticism, it's safe to say that taking care of your oral health can help prevent heart-related issues.
- Science news suggests that the concern for human genes has remained absent in their conversations, so it's high time to delve deeper into the genetic studies that can affect human health.
- The discussion moves on to environmental science, addressing climate change and its impact on the planet.
- Aging, men's health, and women's health are topics of concern in regard to chronic diseases, cancers, and autoimmune disorders.
- Nutrition plays a significant role in maintaining overall health, with weight management being an essential aspect of this focus.
- Mental health is a growing concern in today's society, requiring equal attention and therapies to improve emotional well-being.
- Fitness and exercise are crucial components of workplace wellness, addressing mental and physical health concerns related to medical conditions, chronic diseases, and neurological disorders.
- Environmental conditions can cause skin conditions, making skin care a vital part of health and wellness routines.
- For good eye, hearing, respiratory, digestive, and cardiovascular health, keeping the environment clean and safe from pollution is essential.
- As research progresses in medical and environmental science, medicare and cbd may be potential treatments for various health and neurological disorders, while tryng to understand the effects of space and astronomy on human health.
