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Frontiers


Exposure to CO2 after a traumatic experience strengthens fearful memories in mice

Research suggests that inhaling carbon dioxide after a traumatic event makes fearful memories more resilient in mice. The study found that CO2 exposure strengthens fearful memories by activating ASIC1A protein in the brain. This discovery might lead to new therapeutic strategies for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in humans.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021

Off-world colony simulation reveals changes in human communication over time with Earth

Researchers studied the effects of isolation on human psychology, physiology, and team dynamics in a simulated off-world colony. The study found that crews' communication with mission control diminished over time, causing initial friction but eventually leading to increased cohesion despite cultural and personal differences.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 8, 2021

Living at high altitudes may lower chance of having a deadly stroke

Researchers found that people living at high altitudes have a lower risk of stroke and stroke-related death. The study suggests that adaptation to low oxygen conditions may help protect against stroke damage. A protective window between 2,000 and 3,500 meters was identified, with less protection seen above this altitude.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

Deep dive into global Twitter posts reveals possible drop in negativity towards COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers analyzed over 120 million English-language tweets to find a decrease in negative posts about COVID-19, particularly in countries with high vaccination rates. The study suggests that increased vaccination may have contributed to the drop in negativity, but further analysis is needed to fully understand this phenomenon.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2021

Bat guts become less healthy through diet of 'fast food' from banana plantations

Research reveals that nectar-feeding bats foraging in intensively managed banana plantations have less diverse gut microbes compared to those feeding in natural forest habitats or organic plantations. This association between habitat alteration and sustainable agriculture on bat gut microbiota is a significant finding.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2021

Scientists pretend to be Neanderthals to explore how they caught birds in caves for food

Researchers used a 'role-play' approach to study how Neanderthals caught choughs in caves. They found that the birds were vulnerable to artificial light and could be caught using nets or by hand. The findings suggest that catching birds was another skill of Neanderthals, which is surprising given their intelligence and adaptability.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

How well did the EU respond to the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic? Experts now give their verdict

A review of expert opinions reveals mixed results for the EU's COVID-19 response, with successes including coordinated vaccine procurement but shortcomings including inconsistent national responses. Experts emphasize the need for strengthened local surveillance systems and improved EU leadership to prevent similar crises.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateAug 20, 2021

Tiny ‘maniac’ robots could deliver drugs directly to central nervous system

Researchers develop tiny tumbling robots called MANiACs that can climb slopes and move against fluid flow in the body, delivering substances to neural tissue. The study finds these robots have potential for controlled local delivery in neural diseases, offering targeted treatment with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2021

Baby marine turtles’ stomachs are full of harmful plastic debris, suggests new study

A new study published in Frontiers in Marine Science reveals that small juvenile marine turtles from the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean have a high incidence of plastic ingestion. Plastic ingestion is suspected to lead to mortality, malnutrition, and chemical contamination. The types of plastic ingested vary between the two study sites...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Machine learning and knowledge engineering uncovers significant role of elevated blood glucose in severe Covid-19

Researchers have identified a recurring trend of elevated blood glucose levels among those with severe Covid-19, which impairs lung immune defense and facilitates cytokine storm. Tight control and management of glycemia may be crucial for better outcomes, and metformin shows potential as a treatment option.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2021

Slow music in tunnels can keep drivers focused and safe

A virtual reality study found that slow music played as background throughout the tunnel reduces drivers' nervousness and fatigue, while sirens are most effective when played at entry points and during emergencies. The combination of slow music with occasional sirens is proposed as a best solution to improve road safety.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJul 7, 2021

Microbes in cow stomachs can break down plastic

Researchers discovered that bacteria from cow stomachs can digest certain types of plastic, including PET, PBAT, and PEF. The study found that the microorganisms can break down these plastics more effectively than single microorganisms, representing a promising eco-friendly approach to reduce plastic litter.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateJul 2, 2021

Surprising spider hair discovery may inspire stronger adhesives

A new study in Frontiers in Mechanical Engineering found that the hairs on spider legs exhibit unique adhesive properties, with each hair showing different strengths and weaknesses on various surfaces. The researchers believe this diversity may be key to how spiders can climb diverse surfaces.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Mechanical Engineering·DateJun 18, 2021

Beer byproduct mixed with manure proves an excellent pesticide

Researchers found a significant reduction in galling on plant roots after incorporating beer bagasse and rapeseed cake into the soil with fresh cow manure. The treatment also boosted populations of beneficial microorganisms and increased crop yields by around 15% compared to control plots.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·DateMay 31, 2021

Whale carcasses help answer mysteries of elusive species

Researchers analyzed stable isotope analysis of skin, muscle, and bone tissue to study Sowerby's beaked whale spatial ecology. The results show that the species exhibits both short- and long-term habitat fidelity, with at least two subpopulations in the eastern and western Atlantic.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Conservation Science·DateMay 25, 2021