As more and more species near extinction, scientists have been collecting samples from animals, plants and other creatures and storing them in biorepositories across the globe (SN: 5/8/19). But climate…
Category: Life
A futurist says our species evolves in 3 phases: With 1 down, here’s what may come next
Jeffrey Charles Hardy introduces a three-tiered model of human evolution—the “First, Suspended, and Second Human Evolution.” Standing back and viewing the human trajectory from its pre-historic origin to today and…
Nasty-tasting cane toads teach crocodiles a lifesaving lesson
All it takes is one miserable night after a bad dinner or drink to make humans avoid an ingredient for life. To teach freshwater crocodiles in Australia to avoid a…
Glial Cells Play Key Role in Alzheimer’s Development
Summary: New research reveals that glial cells, specifically oligodendrocytes, produce amyloid beta, a protein linked to Alzheimer’s disease, challenging the long-held belief that neurons are the sole contributors. This discovery…
A risk-tolerant immune system may enable house sparrows’ wanderlust
For animals exploring new territory, taking risks is key to survival. But eating unfamiliar foods can be dicey, since they might contain new pathogens and parasites. One avian immune system,…
Brain Scans Improve Concussion Care by Predicting Lasting Symptoms
Summary: Advanced MRI scans, particularly diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), have shown promise in predicting which concussion patients are at risk for long-term symptoms. While standard CT scans often fail to…
Moral Values Shift with the Seasons
Summary: A study has found that people’s endorsement of moral values fluctuates seasonally, with group-focused values like loyalty, authority, and purity being more strongly supported in spring and fall. This…
Classical Music Synchronizes Brain Waves, Improving Depression
Summary: Western classical music can significantly affect brain activity, particularly in people with treatment-resistant depression. By measuring brainwaves and neural imaging, scientists discovered that music synchronizes neural oscillations between brain…
Viewpoint: Biotechnology rejectionists claim the Green Revolution caused more harm than good. Here are the facts.
After the Second World War, regional famines began to occur. Believing that increasing agricultural performance can be the solution to the problem, individuals and organizations have rolled up their sleeves…
Lower Dementia Risk Than Previously Thought in Parkinson’s
Summary: A new study suggests that the risk of developing dementia in Parkinson’s disease patients may be lower or occur later than previously reported. Researchers analyzed data from two large…
