Articles tagged with Environmental Stresses
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study analyzed climate factors' impact on internal migration, revealing regions prone to drought-induced migration, such as Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. The research highlights the need for policies addressing drivers of migration and consequences for destination regions.
Researchers investigate links between environmental exposures, air pollution, and temperature with EMS transports for health emergencies. The study aims to guide decisions on resilient healthcare infrastructure as climate changes.
Climate change is releasing more contaminants into the ocean, affecting marine ecosystems. Human activities and natural sources are mobilizing and increasing contaminant flows due to rising sea levels and melting glaciers.
A human rights-based approach to coral reef protection could ensure governments are held accountable for safeguarding marine ecosystems. An estimated one billion people rely on healthy coral reefs globally for food security and income, highlighting the catastrophic impact of their loss on human health and economic wellbeing.
Researchers are conducting a comprehensive health and nutrition examination study to assess the status of active-duty service members. The study will gather data on dietary intake, nutritional status, cardiovascular health, and other measures to guide evidence-based screening and intervention strategies for improving health in the mili...
A new study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution found that warmer temperatures and nitrogen fertilization can stabilize soil carbon levels, contradicting earlier predictions. Plant roots and growth add new carbon to the soil, counteracting the loss of carbon due to climate change.
Coastal forests face uncertain future as sea levels rise, with trees more vulnerable to saltwater flooding than marshes. Tree ring analysis reveals nuanced effects of flooding, temperature, and precipitation on tree growth, highlighting species- and site-specific factors.
A new study suggests that altering coral feeding habits could aid their recovery from bleaching events caused by rising ocean temperatures and acidification. Feeding corals zooplankton after a bleaching event improved their resilience to warming temperatures, promoting growth and enhancing recovery rates.
Researchers found that women exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide and inhalable particulate matter during the second trimester face an almost fourfold increased risk of postpartum depression. The study also discovered a sustained effect of air pollution on symptoms of depression for up to three years after birth.
Grey reef sharks are deserting coral reefs in response to environmental stress caused by warming oceans. The study found that sharks are choosing to move into offshore waters, exacerbating declines in shark populations already threatened by exploitation.
A new study by Penn State researchers found that middle-aged and older women are more susceptible to extreme heat due to physiological changes. The study identified specific temperature/humidity levels safe for women as they age, providing valuable information for setting policies during heat waves.
A study from the University of Tokyo found that incorporating humidity data into heat stress indicators improves predictions of climate-related deaths. The researchers analyzed data from hundreds of cities and found that humid environments, such as coastal areas, are more accurate predictors of heat-related mortality.
Toxic pollution is the single largest cause of death and poor health, killing up to 9 million people each year. Business can play a critical role in addressing it and mitigating its effects by embracing innovations like adaptive construction and alternative energy options.
A recent study reveals that urban trees are more negatively impacted by heat waves and drought than their rural counterparts. The research highlights the challenges urban trees face in the context of climate change, underscoring the importance of tailored urban forestry management to protect tree species and reduce urban heat islands.
A study on wild tomato species reveals that a plant's vigor plays a significant role in its salt tolerance. The researchers found correlations between traits like transpiration rate, shoot mass, and ion accumulation with plant performance under salt stress.
A KAUST-led study reveals that plant trait diversity increases above an aridity threshold of 0.7, challenging the view that harsh environments reduce biodiversity. The research found that chemical and morphological traits respond similarly to changes in aridity and grazing pressure.
The study found that Tipuana tipu grows faster at higher temperatures and can contribute to urban climate resilience. The tree can thrive in restrictive weather conditions, providing ecosystem services such as carbon capture and temperature regulation.
A new study found that microplastics impact plant reproduction, while seawater flooding causes greater tissue death in coastal plants. Combining both stressors amplifies threats to ecosystem wellbeing.
A study by the University of Essex found that oil and gas extraction can cause a nearly 30% decline in species richness near platforms, with pollutants like hydrocarbons up to 10,613% higher within 500m. This has a direct impact on marine invertebrates and food webs.
A research team led by Clemson University Professor Shahid Mukhtar aims to identify natural biological solutions through the microbiome to help soybeans survive extreme heat and drought. The study will focus on the cellular level, soil microbiomes, and plant responses to environmental stresses.
A new study from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln examines fossil records going back 66 million years, tracking changes in mammalian ecosystems and species diversity. The research reveals that following the mass extinction of non-avian dinosaurs, mammalian communities experienced a surge in functional diversity for 10 million years.
A recent study found that nearly 50% of non-Indigenous localities and 54% of Indigenous villages in the Brazilian part of the Amazon basin are prone to isolation during severe droughts. Severe droughts result in extended periods of low water levels, affecting communities' access to goods, services, healthcare, education, and livelihoods.
The Texas A&M Center for Environmental Health will promote research in four areas of environmental health, including climate change and health, environment and metabolism, and environmental justice and policy. The center aims to facilitate collaboration between researchers and make funding more accessible for junior faculty.
Research reveals wildfire ash can have devastating consequences on Australian water ecosystems, affecting both terrestrial and aquatic organisms. The study found that two common crustacean species had varying levels of sensitivity to ash concentrations, with some unable to survive even low doses.
A new study reveals that a type of desert moss called Syntrichia caninervis has the potential to grow on Mars due to its ability to tolerate extreme temperatures, radiation, and dehydration. The researchers tested the moss's resilience in various conditions and found it to be one of the most radiation-tolerant organisms known.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) has awarded a four-year, $5.2 million grant to Wayne State University's Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors (CURES). The CURES team will investigate the basis for urban environmental health disparities and the human health impact of environmental exposure...
Researchers at NUS discovered a novel mechanism in plants that removes excess chloride ions from roots, enhancing salinity tolerance. This discovery could improve the salinity tolerance of crop plants in the future.
A new study by RIKEN CSRS shows that biomass from purple photosynthetic marine bacterium Rhodovulum sulfidophilum is an excellent nitrogen fertilizer, effective as inorganic synthetic fertilizers but with lower environmental side effects. The biomass boosts plant growth without altering soil pH or salinity.
A new study published in JACC: CardioOncology found that air pollution significantly increases cardiovascular disease and mortality in cancer patients, contributing to health disparities. Short-term exposure to high pollution levels rapidly impacts cancer patients' cardiovascular health.
The CCR4-NOT complex plays a crucial role in regulating RNA metabolism and stress response in C. elegans, compromising stress resistance and decreasing lifespan when depleted of subunits. This study highlights an important new role for the CCR4-NOT complex in normal aging and longevity.
A new system developed by Boyce Thompson Institute makes affordable, mobile and high-throughput phenotyping tools accessible worldwide. This allows researchers to conduct data-driven studies on plant growth and responses over time, accelerating breeding of more resilient crop varieties.
A recent study reveals a significant link between PM2.5 air pollution exposure during pregnancy and low birth weight in newborns worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for stricter air pollution controls. The study emphasizes the impact of air quality on prenatal development and draws attention to regional variations in health risks.
Researchers found that young African fish raised in cloudy water developed larger eye structures than those raised in clear water. As the fish age, they lose this ability to adapt. The study also showed that older fish have bigger brains and optic lobes, suggesting different sensory demands at various stages of life.
International agreements like Sustainable Development Goals represent wide support for a sustainable future. However, disagreements on how to achieve this lead to marginalization and inaction. Researchers found that competing approaches prioritize different values of nature, making compromise difficult.
A study of 25,000 NBA matches found that home teams from the Western Time Zone Area have a near 10% better win ratio when playing against Eastern Teams. The researchers suggest that elite basketball coaches and teams should consider the physical and mental effects of time zone travel on game planning.
A recent study by an international group found that forests with higher trait diversity adapt better to climate change and thrive. Higher productivity levels were maintained in diverse trees compared to monoculture forests.
Ancient marine plankton communities showed subtle changes before major extinctions, serving as an early warning system for future ocean life loss. These findings offer new insight into how biodiversity responds to global warming and its relevance to worst-case scenarios.
SMART researchers develop a nanosensor that selectively detects salicylic acid in live plants, vital for stress response. The sensor combines sensors for H₂O₂ and salicylic acid, enabling simultaneous monitoring of plant hormones and aiding in early diagnoses to improve crop resilience.
A new study reveals that ocean acidification changes the mix of microbes in coral reef systems, which can be used as an early indicator of ecosystem stress. The research suggests a novel measurement approach by analyzing microbial communities alongside larger organisms.
Researchers at Duke University used nanoscale visualization techniques to study corrosion in electrolyzers used to produce green hydrogen. The study reveals that rare metal catalysts break down quickly due to acidic environments, but also identifies potential strategies to minimize these defects and extend the devices' lifetimes.
Researchers found that human-made noise reduces whales' ability to hear acoustic communication, generates an avoidance response, and lowers detection of environmental cues. This can lead to increased journey time or failure to arrive at destinations.
A new dataset has been released that combines molecular information about the poplar tree microbiome with ecosystem-level processes. The dataset provides detailed information on 27 genetically distinct variants of Populus trichocarpa, a bioenergy crop, and includes data on gene expression, soil chemistry, and microbial diversity.
Researchers reconstructed a Late Holocene-aged subfossil coral death assemblage and compared it to modern reefs in Southeast Florida. The study reveals significant differences in coral composition between the two periods, suggesting that modern reefs may not be able to support range expansions of temperature-sensitive species.
A new study found that people with high genetic stress sensitivity are more likely to experience heart attacks during stressful periods, such as holidays and elections. Those who also have anxiety or depression are at even higher risk, with their likelihood tripled.
A new study reveals a strong pattern of decline among moths of all sizes and life stages from rural to urban areas in Florida. Larger macromoths fared worse than smaller ones, likely due to increased metabolic stress in high temperatures.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science found that rose essential oil increases the transcript levels of PIR1 and PIN2, key plant defense genes, in tomato plants. The study also showed that REO reduces leaf damage caused by pests and attracts beneficial predators to protect against herbivores.
Adolescents with high adverse childhood experiences showed improved mental health scores with in-person schooling and engaging in healthy behaviors. Positive affect and lower perceived stress were significantly higher among those with in-person schooling, suggesting a protective factor.
A new hypothesis suggests that chronic inflammation is spreading among people at unprecedented rates, affecting cognitive ability to address critical issues. The authors propose a mechanism where the brain creates its own copy of bodily inflammation, leading to impaired cognition, emotion, and behavior.
Soil microbes were analyzed near the Centralia mine fire, revealing new insights into how bacterial communities respond to intense environmental change. The team found that species that were active or dormant changed after the fire, but some populations recovered with new bacteria being blown in by wind.
Research found that introduced ribwort plantain populations have higher concentrations of chemical defense compounds than native populations, despite showing slightly greater feeding damage. Climatic conditions also play a role in the accumulation of volatile compounds and the plants' ability to cope with environmental stresses.
Research by Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology and Duke University found that early life adversity, such as drought and poor habitat quality, can leave lasting signatures in baboon DNA. Multiple exposures to early adversity appear to have compounding effects on DNA methylation.
Researchers studied Prorocentrum cordatum to understand its molecular processes, revealing a unique photosynthetic machinery that may help it adapt to changing light conditions. The findings could lead to improved understanding of harmful algal blooms and their role in climate change.
A recent study found that semi-aquatic anole lizards can experience a 6°C drop in body temperature while diving, with males conserving heat to minimize muscle recovery time. Females prioritize safety over physiological costs, taking longer dives to avoid predators.
Scientists have created a way to correct distorted light patterns in real time without needing to reapply the same distortion. This method uses nonlinear optics and exploits difference frequency generation to produce an aberration-free output beam.
A new study suggests that fish are shifting their focus from less abundant prey to more abundant prey as waters become warmer, leading to a mismatch between their energetic needs and actual food intake. This flexible foraging behaviour may make communities more vulnerable to climate change, increasing the risk of extinctions.
Research reveals a rich diversity of beneficial fungi living in boreal forest trees, with implications for forest health. The findings suggest that these fungi are adapted in highly specific ways to their local conditions, making them sensitive to future climate change.
Cadmium exposure from cigarette smoke can lead to increased ANO1 expression in airway epithelial cells, exacerbating COPD. MicroRNA-381 negatively regulates ANO1, but its downregulation by cadmium could worsen disease severity.
Research reveals that spatial patterns in dryland vegetation are critical for adapting to changing environmental conditions. The study provides empirical evidence supporting the role of self-organized clusters in maintaining ecosystem function and health.
A recent study reveals a shift in global warming dynamics, with greater daytime warming since the 1990s. This has led to an increasing temperature difference between day and night, which could affect crop yields, animal well-being, and human health.
A new study found that the spatial arrangement of plants in drylands can be a sign of environmental degradation. Healthy ecosystems adjust their structure to cope with stressors, but degraded ones lose this adaptability and become more prone to further decline.