Robert Lloyd - a Sir Gar Blog of random news . . . and some Clecs!

An Aberystwyth PhD student has discovered that birds with additional DNA may live longer lives. In research published in the journal 'Aging', IBERS PhD student Ilze Skujina screened hundreds of mitochondrial DNA sequences for the presence of duplications and demonstrated that they are found significantly more often in longer-lived bird species. http://www.aging-us.com/article/ggTZQvxjJXncACAsf/text Ilze said “Understanding how ageing happens in different groups of species like birds may provide insights into ageing in humans.” The mechanics of flight utilises a large amount of energy and results in higher body temperatures but despite this, birds live longer than mammals of equal size. Mitochondria are the 'batteries' of cells and generate chemical energy that every cell in the body can use. Mitochondria play an essential dual role in maintaining a constant body temperature and in generating energy, which both link to expected lifespan. Dr Rob Mc Mahon, Ilze’s PhD sup...

Students in Aberystwyth are being encouraged to look after themselves and help the NHS while living away from home this Easter term. Staff leading on the Choose Well campaign for Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB) met Aberystwyth University students recently to spread the message to students: “help the NHS by using health care services responsibly”. Here are some top tips to help you Choose Well when returning to campus after the Easter vacation: • Register with a local GP practice while at university • Familiarise yourself with local health care options. A handy guide for Aberystwyth students can be found online at www.hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk/choosewell • Download the Choose Well app, which provides a GPS facility to locate the nearest services to you, as well as information leaflets with local contact numbers, from www.hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk/choosewell Dan Evans, a previous Aberystwyth University student, said: “I hadn’t realised that community pharmacies could offer ...