Research shows that wild birds in vineyards are highly susceptible to triazole fungicide contamination, disrupting hormones and metabolism, impacting reproduction and survival. Vineyards use significantly more fungicides than other crops, posing a unique threat to bird populations.
Researchers found that ahiflower oil supplementation can recover mitochondrial respiration rates in honey bees exposed to imidacloprid, a common neonicotinoid pesticide. This study suggests the potential for food supplements to decrease honey bee mortalities caused by pesticides.
The SEB Centenary Conference 2023 features over 800 talks on advances in animal, plant and cell biology. The conference marks the Society's 100th anniversary with special events and projects celebrating historically marginalised scientists.
Research reveals minnows prefer energetic shoalmates due to increased visual stimulation and potential hydrodynamic benefits. Higher metabolic rates in shoal mates may reduce predation risks for following fish.
Researchers found that wastewater-exposed rainbow darters had increased metabolic rates, suggesting they were under stress from environmental conditions. The presence of pathogenic bacteria in these fish was also linked to human infections such as food poisoning.
Researchers studied ribbon halfbeak flying behavior to optimize 'tandem wing' airplane design. These fish twist their bodies to create horizontal tail wings, reducing downwash effect on main wing.
Researchers studied the aerodynamics of bats performing manoeuvres during flight, revealing their high level of control over wings. The study used flow visualisation techniques to analyse bat wing movement through the air, gaining insights into how these animals catch prey on the wing.
Research by Dr Nicholas Carey and colleagues reveals complex balance between whale attacks and fish escape responses, and how lunge characteristics relate to prey escape abilities. Humpback whales alter their lunging strategy to target different prey species.
Researchers are exploring the potential of mollusc shells to restore damaged oyster reefs and cultivate new oysters. The shells contain over 95% calcium carbonate, a valuable biomaterial used in various applications, offering a sustainable alternative to mined limestone.
A new study by Dr Nick Pullen and his team reveals that plant growth is actually 'sink-limited', meaning genetic regulation and cell division rates control growth. This finding has significant implications for the agricultural industry, including potential improvements in crop yields and climate modeling.
Plesiosaurs' long necks may have been a hydrodynamic advantage, allowing them to move slowly and float comfortably. The location of the bend in their necks could also impact drag, leading to more patient hunting styles like modern crocodiles.
A new study reveals that tadpoles living in low-temperature environments are more susceptible to DNA damage from UV radiation. This increased risk can lead to mutations and cell death, contributing to the global amphibian extinction crisis.
Research on ostriches reveals a counter-intuitive effect of their double-kneecap, decreasing mechanical advantage in knee extensor muscles. The true purpose of this unique structure is still unknown, with potential roles including tendon protection and joint function improvement.
A new robot designed by Mr Mouad Mkamel and his team can extract scorpion venom without harming the animal or risking life-threatening electrical shocks. The VES-4 device uses electric stimulation to collect venom droplets, which are then stored safely, offering a safer alternative to traditional manual methods.
Researchers discover that high densities of nests on Raine Island limit hatching rates due to oxygen depletion and bacterial buildup. Pumping air into the nests may boost hatching rate, explaining similar phenomena in other turtle species.
Male beetles have evolved to keep their penis tips soft for faster sex, exploiting the female's duct for efficient breeding. Researchers found that a softer tip is better for penetrating the female duct due to its narrow tube, which slows down penetration.
Labradors with elbow dysplasia showed improved mobility and stride characteristics after hydrotherapy, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic tool. The study also found benefits in healthy control groups, indicating swimming can be beneficial for dogs.
Water fleas, such as Daphnia, grow defensive structures like helmets and spines in response to predator chemical cues. This 'arming' process allows them to tailor their defenses to specific predators, potentially affecting ecosystem composition and population dynamics.
Researchers have selectively bred domesticated rat strains to exhibit tame behavior, with no instances of biting reported. The study also reveals hormonal responses and sex differences in aggression between male and female rats, shedding light on the physiological changes during domestication.
A recent study in rats suggests that acoustic shock waves can accelerate muscle healing by increasing chemical signaling factors and waking up satellite progenitor cells. This technique, called Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), has promising potential as a non-invasive therapy complementing existing recovery regimes.
Research reveals that king penguins can distinguish between dangerous and benign sounds while sleeping on the beach. They react with alarm to predator calls, but not to unfamiliar sounds like a dog's growl.
A recent study found that Japanese quail grown in green and red light exhibit higher body weights and reproductive development compared to white and blue light. This surprising discovery has potential applications across various fields, including poultry production, cancer research, and endocrine studies.
A new technique using 'smokewater' has been found to disrupt dormancy in blackgrass seeds, making them vulnerable to herbicides. The method could help reduce crop losses due to weed growth, which is expected to increase with climate change.
Researchers have visualized how immune cells create networks of DNA traps called NETs to capture and destroy microbes. The process, known as NETosis, involves the transformation of histones and release of digestive enzymes into the extracellular space.
Researchers discovered that coconut walls can dissipate energy via crack deflection, thanks to a distinct, ladder-like design of the vascular system. This structure could be applied to functionally graded concrete to enhance its energy dissipation capacity and protect buildings against earthquakes and other hazards.
Ocean acidification is threatening mussel farming industries as mussels' ability to attach themselves to surfaces weakens in acidic conditions. The pH level plays a critical role in the attachment process, and changes in ocean chemistry are expected to impact mussel communities.
Researchers studying infant locomotion have discovered common neural primitives used by humans and animals to walk. These findings could lead to new rehabilitation methods for patients with spinal cord injuries and cerebral palsy.
Research reveals that cleaner wrasse use 'tactical deception' to lure in clients and cheat them by biting off mucus, a behavior similar to human scams. The study also found that cleaners adjust their cheating behavior based on competition and stress levels.
Researchers study bird and insect flight techniques to develop biologically-inspired UAV control systems. The goal is to create fully autonomous drones that can navigate without GPS or radar, enabling applications like surveillance and planetary exploration.
Research reveals urban hedgehogs can survive with smaller nightly ranging areas and adjust activity levels to human disturbance. They show similar hibernation patterns to rural populations, highlighting the importance of access to undisturbed habitats for their entire hibernation season.
Researchers found that mice exposed to cat urine early in life can't avoid it later due to positive reinforcement and hormone changes. The molecule L-Felinine is responsible for this effect, blocking pregnancy and reducing litter size.
Researchers at the University of Salzburg developed a new method to estimate time since death in humans, even up to 240 hours after death, by analyzing muscle proteins and enzymes in pigs. Initial results are promising for human samples, offering a simple and efficient approach with advantages over current methods.
Rising sea temperatures and decreased salt concentration are predicted to significantly impact mussel health, favoring disease-causing bacteria that produce toxins. This could threaten the rapidly-growing tropical shellfish industry in South-West India, which is already under pressure from urbanization.
Researchers discover fungi-specific signalling molecule controlling Candida's growth, offering hope for clinical treatments
Grey seal pups who practice in pools have improved breathing patterns and longer breath-holding periods during their transition to sea life. Researchers believe this may be due to stimulation of facial nerves causing a drop in heart rate, helping them conserve oxygen.
Researchers found that cooler temperatures increase milk output in lactating females, while also slowing the growth of their young due to increased energy expenditure. In contrast, warmer temperatures limit milk production in mothers while benefiting the growth of their pups.
Losing feathers at the wrong time can significantly impact a bird's ability to fly long distances due to increased drag and reduced wing area. The study suggests that migratory birds may need more energy and make additional stopovers if they depart prematurely before fully moulted.
Researchers study insect leg shapes to improve thin-walled tube safety in aircraft and hospital equipment. They find that non-circular cross sections can be designed without compromising mechanical strength, inspired by nature.
A new genetic 'switch' device can detect damaging contaminants like TNT, offering a cheaper and easier method for cleaning up post-war explosive chemicals. The system is cell-free, specific, and requires minimal expertise, but further research is needed to refine its sensitivity.
Researchers have developed a method to visualize plant branching structures using MRI, gaining insights into the design of lightweight materials. The technique allows for non-invasive visualization of vascular tissues under stress, enabling optimization of branched, fibre-reinforced components in various industries.
Trees that tolerate soil pollution show improved resistance to biological invasions, with 99% of spidermite RNA found in higher abundance in uncontaminated trees. This discovery implies that polluted plants may prime their defence machinery, enhancing their ability to defend against pests and pathogens.
Researchers at Yamagata University have developed a high-quality rice flour that can overcome issues associated with previous rice flours. The new flour's improved properties enable better dough formation, increased elasticity, and more consistent texture, making it suitable for those with wheat intolerance.
Australian scientists discovered different species of frogs adopt distinct jumping styles depending on their environment. Frogs from various habitats exhibit unique shapes, such as burrowing frogs having squat bodies and aquatic frogs having streamlined bodies with longer limbs.
A new study suggests that boosting protein content in the diet can lead to effective weight loss by reducing hunger for other macronutrients. Researchers found that primates prioritize protein over carbohydrates and fat, which may explain the recent surge in human obesity cases in Western societies.
Scientists have developed a new technique to observe root development in 3D and in real-time, allowing them to track cell movements and capture the formation of new roots. This breakthrough could help plant breeders select crops more resistant to drought and flooding.
Researchers discovered a specialized ligament structure in giraffes that prevents leg collapse under immense weight. The suspensory ligament, found in long-necked animals, enables giraffes to stand upright without active muscle engagement, reducing fatigue.
Researchers have found that modern maize has lost its ability to produce a defense chemical called E-β-caryophyllene, making it vulnerable to insects and pathogens. By introducing a gene from oregano, scientists were able to restore this chemical production, attracting beneficial nematode worms that kill corn rootworm larvae.
Late-born dormice use power napping to catch up with earlier-born counterparts, achieving similar sizes by winter. This strategy also allows them to conserve energy and water during periods of food scarcity.
Researchers found that light pollution disrupts the reproductive cycle of mouse lemurs, causing testes to grow larger and testosterone levels to increase. The study also showed that light pollution affects the daily activity pattern of lemurs, delaying their nocturnal behavior.
Researchers found that taking off from a compliant surface like a springboard reduces the energy cost of long jumps compared to firm surfaces. This is due to a closer optimal take-off angle for maximum energy efficiency. For shorter distances, no difference was observed in energy expenditure between firm and springy surfaces.