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Science News Archive August 2020 - Page 26


Page 26 of 45

Decline in US bird biodiversity related to neonicotinoids, study shows

A new study from the University of Illinois reveals a significant decline in US bird biodiversity related to neonicotinoid use, particularly affecting grassland birds. The research found a 2.2% decline in grassland bird populations for every 100 kg increase in neonicotinoid usage per county.

Study shows frequently used serology test may not detect antibodies that could confirm protection against reinfection of COVID-19

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center found that some commercially available serological tests only detect N-protein antibodies, which may not indicate immunity to reinfection. S-RBD antibody detection is considered a better indicator of protection against COVID-19 reinfection.

Linking sight and movement

A team of Harvard researchers found that image-processing circuits in the primary visual cortex are more active when animals move, suggesting a complex relationship between vision and movement. The study's results offer new insights into how neural activity works in sensory regions of the brain.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNeuron·DateAug 14, 2020

Reconstructing global climate through Earth's history

Researchers have developed a framework to reconcile discrepancies in ancient sea surface temperature estimates and climate model results. By accounting for location-biased paleoclimate data, scientists can better reconstruct global climate conditions in the past and improve predictions of future climate scenarios.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 13, 2020

The larynx has evolved more rapidly in primates

Researchers found that primates have evolved larger, more variable larynges with faster adaptation rates compared to carnivores. This difference is linked to vocal communication systems, suggesting a key role for the larynx in primate behavior.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

A watershed moment for US water quality

A new federal rule leaves millions of miles of unconnected US streams and acres of wetlands unprotected, potentially undermining decades of taxpayer investment in improving water quality. The move risks higher floods, loss of biodiversity, and threats to drinking water and recreational fishing.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

Studying how skin cancer starts

Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have discovered how quickly certain pre-cancerous lesions can form on the DNA of our skin when exposed to sunlight, a finding that could lead to more effective prevention methods. The research reveals that these mutations can form in as little as three picoseconds after exposure to UV light.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 13, 2020

Academia from home

A recent study suggests that remote work can be beneficial for postdoctoral researchers, enabling them to overcome financial and family constraints. By leveraging digital tools and establishing transparent communication channels, remote research can facilitate collaboration, reduce stress, and promote productivity. This shift in perspe...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

How do we prioritize what we see?

A new study reveals that the occipital cortex is essential for guiding involuntary attention to prioritize visual information. Researchers used transcranial magnetic stimulation to disrupt cortical excitability in this region, finding that it eliminates behavioral benefits and costs at attended and unattended locations.

SourceNew York University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

Exercise Enhancement

Researchers at Harvard Medical School discovered that inhibiting the PHD3 enzyme improves mouse exercise capacity, running distance, and VO2 max. This finding sheds light on a key mechanism for fat metabolism and offers clues toward understanding muscle function and fitness.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 13, 2020

Scientists sound the alarm: Lockdowns may escalate the obesity epidemic

A trio of Danish researchers warn that lockdowns could lead to an explosion in obesity rates due to increased consumption of high-energy foods and decreased physical activity. The study highlights the need for counter strategies to promote healthy eating habits and physical activity while combatting COVID-19.

Sufficiently distant parks and public services facilitate older adults' physical activity

A study conducted at the University of Jyväskylä found that older adults who reported attractive destinations more than 500 meters away were more physically active. This suggests that having diverse and quality neighborhood destinations may support older adults' physical activity, contrary to common assumptions.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateAug 13, 2020