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Science News Archive December 2020 - Page 31


Page 31 of 39

Molecular mechanism of plant immune receptors discovered

Researchers at the University of Cologne have discovered the molecular mechanism of plant immune receptors, revealing a common structural principle to trigger intracellular immune signals and cell death. The study found that activated protein forms a tetramer, which creates a unique surface necessary for defence signal triggering.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience·DateDec 7, 2020

Differences in ancient Peruvian diets

A study reveals distinct dietary patterns in ancient Huaca Prieta and Paredones communities in north coastal Peru, with Paredones adults consuming high amounts of maize and terrestrial meat. The findings suggest diet differences may have facilitated resource exchange and economic specialization between nearby communities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 7, 2020

No refuge from the heat

A recent study by UC Santa Barbara and NOAA reveals that marine protected areas have little effect on mitigating the impacts of marine heatwaves on ocean ecosystems. The research found that the heatwave had a significant impact on fish communities within and outside MPAs, with non-targeted species being more responsive to the changes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 7, 2020

Good news for the honey bee according to 150-year-old museum specimens

A new study on 150-year-old museum specimens of Western honey bees found higher genetic diversity than expected, contradicting the notion that loss of genetic diversity contributes to bee decline. The research suggests that unique mating systems and migration patterns may help maintain high levels of variation in modern hives.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers investigate various aspects of COVID-19. A study finds hydroxychloroquine has no benefit in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection after exposure. Meanwhile, a review reveals patients with COVID-19 can develop prolonged illness, sometimes referred to as 'Long COVID'. Additionally, a Wuhan study sheds light on viral persistence and...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 7, 2020

Peatland preservation vital to climate

Researchers warn that peatlands, a significant carbon sink, are expected to shift from absorbing to emitting carbon due to human impacts. The study predicts total carbon loss from 2020-2100 at 104 billion tons, emphasizing the need for urgent inclusion in climate models and better preservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 7, 2020

Study finds large-scale expansion of stem rust resistance gene in barley and oat lineages

A new study finds the Sr22 gene is conserved among grasses in the Triticeae and Poeae lineages, with significant expansion in barley and oat lineages. The research provides valuable insights into plant disease resistance gene function and evolution, potentially improving crop resilience to agriculturally important diseases.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateDec 7, 2020

Don't let them go quietly into the night

Kyoto University researchers highlight the need for targeted conservation efforts due to 90% extinction risk for Japanese bat species. The study reveals poor alignment between conservation needs and research resource allocation, with many threats understudied.

SourceKyoto University·JournalMammal Review·DateDec 7, 2020