Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2020 - Page 24


Page 24 of 40

When frogs die off, snake diversity plummets

A new study found that after a chytrid fungus outbreak in Panama, decimated frog populations, the number of snake species declined dramatically, causing the snake community to become more homogeneous. The loss of amphibians had a ripple effect on the ecosystem, leading to a drop in body condition and occurrence rates among snakes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 2020

Lane change in the cytoskeleton

Researchers identified a molecular mechanism for communication between microtubule and actin networks, enabling color change in amphibians and fish. A theoretical model supports the findings, highlighting the regulatory efficiency of cytoskeletal interactions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2020

New air-pressure sensor could improve everyday devices

A new air-pressure sensor developed by Binghamton University researchers uses a micro-switch mechanism to improve the performance of various devices, including those monitoring barometric pressure and oxygen levels in hospitals. The sensor's design allows for faster response times and longer lifespans compared to conventional sensors.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·DateFeb 12, 2020

Scientists find ally in fight against brain tumors: Ebola

Researchers have found that a component of the Ebola virus can selectively target and kill glioblastoma brain tumors, providing a potential new approach to treating this deadly form of cancer. The Ebola glycoprotein MLD helps protect normal cells from infection while allowing cancer cells to be targeted by the immune system.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateFeb 12, 2020

Preparing for climate change

Scientists are developing new ways to mitigate climate change while enabling people and ecosystems to survive and thrive. Researchers are reengineering crops to increase yield and resist disease, modifying coral DNA to make reefs more resilient, and creating innovative solutions for cities to protect infrastructure from extreme weather.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 12, 2020

Mind the trust gap: it's wider than you think

A study from York University reveals a wide trust gap between Americans in southern and northern regions. The gap persists even after considering internal migration, with southerners generally exhibiting lower trust levels due to the region's collectivist culture.

SourceYork University·JournalSociological Quarterly·DateFeb 12, 2020

Human language most likely evolved gradually

Researchers question the idea that human language arose instantaneously through a single gene mutation, proposing instead a gradual evolution through accumulation of smaller biological changes. They argue that the cognitive operation Merge, key to human language, evolved gradually over time.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 12, 2020

Algae team rosters could help ID 'super corals'

Researchers have discovered that coral colonies with similar groups of algae survive better under stress. The study found that the symbiotic community diversity of dinoflagellates in good-performing corals is more constrained and works well together with their host, while poorly performing corals have less coordinated communities.

SourceRice University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 12, 2020

Children's fingertip injuries could signal abuse

A Rutgers study found that children with a documented history of abuse or neglect were 23% more likely to suffer a fingertip injury before age 12. The researchers analyzed medical records from 79,108 children and identified a link between fingertip injuries and abuse or neglect.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Hand Surgery Global Online·DateFeb 12, 2020

Identified a brain circuit that could indicate the risk of developing Alzheimer's

A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research has identified a brain circuit that could indicate the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Researchers discovered that poor connectivity between the brainstem and cerebellum may be predictive of Alzheimer's risk, specifically targeting those with a family history.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateFeb 12, 2020

Circular reasoning

Researchers discovered that lower circHomer1a levels in the brain's frontal cortex are correlated with schizophrenia symptoms and impaired cognitive flexibility in mice. The study suggests that circular RNAs play a crucial regulatory role in gene expression, potentially serving as biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment targets.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 12, 2020