Red deer may become less sociable as they grow old to reduce the risk of picking up diseases, while older house sparrows seem to have fewer social interactions as their peers die off, according to new research which shows humans are not the only animals to change our social behaviour...
Scientists can reverse brain aging in fruit flies by preventing buildup of a common protein
Buildup of a protein called filamentous actin, or F-actin, in the brain inhibits the removal of cellular wastes, including DNA, lipids, proteins and organelles. The resulting accumulation of waste diminishes neuronal functions and contributes to cognitive decline. By tweaking a few very specific genes in the neurons of aging fruit...
RSV vaccines effective, but more people need to get them
Doctors detail what we learned after the first season following the approval of RSV vaccines. The vaccine effectively prevented severe illness in older, but only 24 percent of eligible US adults received the vaccine, compared to 50 percent for flu shots. Better public awareness and improved vaccine access are needed...
When is a heat wave just a heat wave, and when is it climate change?
A new study used the 2023 heat wave in Texas and Louisiana as a test case for establishing processes that tease out whether particular weather events are climate change related.
No incentive for older birds to make new friends
Like people, birds have fewer friends as they age, but the reasons why are unclear. New research suggests they may just have no drive to.
Giant clam declared critically endangered after the latest assessment
Once abundant, the massive, colorful clam is now locally extinct in many regions, with a critical drop in population due to overfishing and climate change.
Invasive plants drive homogenization of soil microbial communities across U.S.
A new study reveals that invasive plants are reshaping soil microbial communities across the U.S., making them more uniform and altering how ecosystems function.
Keeping fewer friends protects aging monkeys from diseases
Becoming less sociable protects older monkeys from getting ill, new research shows.
Thin skin significantly blunts injury from puncture
Thin, stretchy skin -- like that of a pig or human -- significantly lessens the underlying damage that occurs when it's punctured. Pig skin even outperforms synthetic materials that are designed to mimic skin, a new study finds. Its special qualities, in particular its ability to dissipate the energy of...
Are we missing the mark on biodiversity? 90% of countries ignore key behavior changes
There is a yawning gap between national policies to enhance biodiversity and the individual and small group behavioral changes that are critical to making a real difference.