Experts discuss Earth's habitability amid global threats and climate change, with some arguing regions will experience radical changes due to limited adaptive capacities. Others propose innovative solutions like industrial ecology to reduce human dependence on the environment.
New experiments suggest that biodiversity loss can have significant consequences for ecosystem functions, including reduced resilience to extreme events. The type of species present also appears to play a crucial role in determining ecosystem function.
Researchers found no benefit from low-dose aspirin therapy in preventing preeclampsia in women at high risk, contradicting previous studies. High blood pressure and protein in urine can lead to eclampsia, which may be fatal.
The American Institute of Physics hosts a major physics meeting in Columbus, featuring discussions and press conferences among attendees. Online abstracts and a virtual pressroom are also available on the APS website, providing access to meeting information, schedules, and related resources.
Researchers identified a rare genetic mutation in the Tricho-dento-osseous syndrome, which may hold clues for treating osteoporosis. The study found that people with TDO syndrome have exceptionally dense bones that fracture rarely, offering potential insights into improving bone density treatments.
Researchers found that bluntness is key to reaching both children and adults through anti-smoking ads, with messages portraying tobacco industry manipulations being effective in kindling viewer responses. Effective ads also targeted concerns over addiction and illustrated the dangers of second-hand smoke.
A European Union policy overhaul aims to reduce pollution and maintain biodiversity, but scientists struggle to design management strategies for a successful transition. Researchers are exploring the use of diverse plant and soil mixtures to facilitate re-colonization and re-establish natural communities.
Scientists study the feedbacks between vegetation and climate using computer models to predict future climate changes. The study found that forests create warmer temperatures in subarctic regions, affecting local ecosystems.
The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory will apply its advanced laser technology to monitor the characteristics of synthetic fibers during manufacturing. This will enable real-time process adjustments, reducing production time and costs. The project aims to significantly improve fiber properties measurement and production efficiency.
A recent study found that hospitals use various tactics to discourage patients from questioning their bills, including intimidating images and bureaucratic roadblocks. Hospitals may also use friendly communication to downplay the need for formal inquiry, but these efforts are often successful in deterring consumer challenges.
Scientists from Canadian Forest Services found that Canada's forests have shifted from a carbon sink to a source, primarily due to changes in disturbance regimes related to climate change. Strict carbon accounting is necessary to determine whether boreal forests can mitigate atmospheric carbon dioxide.
A new, aggressive strain of the late blight fungus, US-8, is devastating potato fields in the US and Canada, resistant to metalaxyl, a commonly used fungicide. The fungus reproduces rapidly, producing massive numbers of spores that can infect stored potatoes, leading to widespread crop loss.
Scientists will present evidence that global change exacerbates wildfires in the Mediterranean region by increasing air temperature, reducing precipitation, and altering landscape patterns. The study finds that water stress increases plant flammability, making conditions more favorable for wildfires in regions like Valencia, Spain.