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Science News Archive June 2021 - Page 23


Page 23 of 51

Numerical study first to reveal origin of 'motion of the ocean' in the straits of Florida

Researchers identify mechanisms behind formation of sub-mesoscale eddies in Straits of Florida, which play a crucial role in retaining marine organisms and nutrients. The study reveals that shear instability on the shelf contributes to the formation of these eddies, with barotropic and baroclinic instabilities driving their development.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Physical Oceanography·DateJun 17, 2021

Stress during pandemic linked to poor sleep

A Washington State University study of twins found that stress and anxiety during the pandemic were associated with decreased sleep quality. The researchers linked self-reported mental health issues to changes in sleep patterns, showing a two-way relationship between disrupted sleep and poor mental health.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJun 17, 2021

Tug-of-war receptors for sour taste in fruit flies sheds light on human taste biology

Research finds that fruit flies use two distinct types of gustatory receptor neurons to discriminate between low and high concentrations of acid, explaining why many animals are attracted to slightly acidic foods but repulsed by highly acidic ones. A key protein, Otopetrin-like, plays a crucial role in attractive sour taste response.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 17, 2021

Excess nitrogen puts butterflies at risk

A study by researchers at the University of Basel found that excess nitrogen deposited into soils via air pollution endangers butterfly diversity in Switzerland. The team analyzed data on plant and butterfly diversity across 383 plots and discovered a clear link between nitrogen intake and reduced vegetation diversity.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalConservation Biology·DateJun 17, 2021

A remote control for gene transfer

A team of researchers from the University of Freiburg has developed a new technology that enables controlled introduction of target genes into individual selected cells. They achieved this by introducing genetic information with an optical remote control, allowing only cells illuminated with red light to take up desired genes.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 17, 2021

CSIC scientists propose a new strategy to regulate the cells communication network

CSIC scientists propose a new approach to regulate the signaling cascade of tyrosine kinases, which could lead to the development of more selective tools for research, diagnosis, or treatment of diseases. The new tool is designed to block the molecules on which kinases act, rather than inhibiting the enzymes themselves.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateJun 17, 2021

A new rapid assessment to promote climate-informed conservation and nature-based solutions

A new rapid assessment framework offers a simple tool to facilitate climate-informed conservation and nature-based solutions. The '5Ws' framework helps practitioners consider the what, when, where, why, and who of climate-informed action, enabling them to adapt investments in reforestation, fire management, and habitat protection.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateJun 17, 2021

Unraveling the origin of Alzheimer's disease

Case Western Reserve University researchers have identified structural elements on human prions that drive their replication in the brain. This breakthrough could lead to a new strategy to stop Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders, as scientists explore ways to bind to these sites to block progression.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 17, 2021

Close-up look at brain uptake of omega-3

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the transport of omega-3 fatty acids across the blood-brain barrier. The study revealed the structure and function of a protein called MFSD2A, which plays a crucial role in delivering essential fatty acids to the brain.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalNature·DateJun 17, 2021

Commercial video games could help treat mental illness

Researchers at Lero found that commercial video games could be used as an effective and stigma-free alternative for treating depression and anxiety. The study suggests that these games can be accessed at a low cost or for free, making them a viable option for people with limited access to mental health care.

SourceLero·JournalJMIR Serious Games·DateJun 17, 2021

A biological blueprint for tough color

Research reveals distinctive micropillars within the carapace of a flower beetle enhance its strength and toughness while optimizing its brightly colored appearance. The study's findings have potential applications in developing new, effective bio-inspired materials.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2021

After the pandemic: Economy, poverty and climate in the post-COVID-19 era

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the economy, leading to a 75 million-person increase in poverty in 2020. The study predicts that economic impacts will persist due to past epidemics' effects, with energy demand and emissions dropping significantly but mostly due to reduced economic activity.