life sciences
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Building Blocks of RNA Spotted at the Centre of the Milky Way
A team of researchers say they’ve found some building blocks of RNA in a molecular cloud close to the centre of the Milky Way. The discovery has implications for theories about how life began on Earth — and perhaps elsewhere.
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The Flu Vaccine May Help Keep Alzheimer’s at Bay
New research suggests even more benefits for flu vaccination in older people. The study found that adults over 65 who received at least one flu shot were noticeably less likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease up to four years later. More research will be needed to confirm a cause-and-effect link and to figure out…
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Most People’s Livers Are Just 3 Years Old
Our liver stays plenty youthful even as we get older, new research this week suggests. Using a form of radioactive dating, the researchers estimate that the average age of our liver’s cells is around three years. Some cells seem to live longer than others, however, a finding that may one day help scientists better understand…
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Algae Powered a Computer for More Than Six Months
Using nothing but light, water and cyanobacteria, the microprocessor ran uninterrupted.