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Science News Archive April 2011 - Page 22


Page 22 of 26

Reef diversity no insurance against human threats

A recent study analyzed data from almost 2,000 coral reef locations worldwide to determine the link between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. The research found that biomass production decreases with increasing human density, especially in more diverse ecosystems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 5, 2011

Cellular feast or famine

A study published in Cell Metabolism identifies a previously underappreciated cellular fat storage depot controlled by sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP-2), which plays a crucial role in balancing cellular cholesterol levels and regulating autophagy.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 5, 2011

Can diabetes or lipid-lowering medications treat addiction?

Researchers found that thiazolidinediones (TZDs) and fibrates, commonly used to treat type-2 diabetes, may help counteract nicotine and alcohol addiction by activating specific receptors in the brain. These drugs stimulate PPAR-α and PPAR-γ receptors, reducing inflammation and increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 5, 2011

Climate change is making our environment 'bluer'

A study confirms that climate change is causing rapid environmental fluctuations, resulting in 'bluer' environments and higher extinction risks for animals. The research links temperature changes to population dynamics, with bluer populations indicating faster oscillations and lower extinction risks.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateApr 5, 2011

Lithium in drinking water in Andean villages

A new study is planned to investigate the health effects of high lithium levels in drinking water on mothers and children in Andean villages. Researchers have found high levels of arsenic, lithium, and other substances in the drinking water and urine of women studied, which may pose a health risk.

SourceLund University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateApr 5, 2011

Rejuvenating electron microscopy

Scientists at UCSD and colleagues create a new type of genetic tag visible under electron microscopy, enabling detailed three-dimensional images of individual cells. The breakthrough enhances electron microscopy capabilities, allowing researchers to visualize proteins in unprecedented detail.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 5, 2011

Caterpillars aren't so bird brained after all

Researchers found that caterpillars position themselves in areas with abundant twigs during the day to avoid detection, but switch to richer feeding grounds at night. This complex behavior shows that masquerading prey use habitat-selection strategies to exploit predators' hunting behavior.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

Mars in Spain

Researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have discovered formations in Catalonia resembling Mars' giant spring mounds. The study, published in Geodinamica Acta, suggests possible similarities in origin, shedding new light on the search for water on Mars.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalGeodinamica Acta·DateApr 4, 2011