Researchers have discovered a new extinct species of lizard-like reptile that belongs to the same ancient lineage as New Zealand's living tuatara. A team of scientists describe the new species Opisthiamimus gregori, which once inhabited Jurassic North America about 150 million years ago alongside dinosaurs like Stegosaurus and Allosaurus. In...
Soybean virus may give plant-munching bugs a boost in survival
Most viral infections negatively affect an organism's health, but one plant virus in particular -- soybean vein necrosis orthotospovirus, often referred to as SVNV -- may actually benefit a type of insect that commonly feeds on soybean plants and can transmit the virus to the plant, causing disease, according to...
The bolder bird gets (and keeps) the girl
Researchers demonstrate a clear connection between personality in wandering albatross (Diomedea exulans) and the likelihood of divorce. Though the link between personality and relationship outcomes in humans is well-established, this is the first study to do so with animals.
Pioneering research using bacteria brings scientists a step closer to creating artificial cells with lifelike functionality
Scientists have harnessed the potential of bacteria to help build advanced synthetic cells which mimic real life functionality.
Daily multivitamin may improve cognition and possibly protect against decline, study suggests
New research shows that taking a daily supplement may improve cognition in older adults. In the study, researchers estimated that three years of multivitamin supplementation roughly translated to a 60-percent slowing of cognitive decline (about 1.8 years).
Tropical insects are extremely sensitive to changing climates
Insects that are adapted to perennially wet environments, like tropical rainforests, don't tend to do well when their surroundings dry out. New research indicates they may be equally averse to heavy rainfall. The results of an extensive five-year study conducted in Peru revealed a 50% decline in arthropod biomass following...
Are we missing a crucial component of sea-level rise?
Across Antarctica, some parts of the base of the ice sheet are frozen, while others are thawed. Scientists show that if some currently frozen areas were also to thaw, it can increase ice loss from glaciers that are not currently major sea-level contributors.
This fungus shrinks in size to better infect the brain
A fungus that is a common cause of fungal meningitis undergoes a remarkable transformation once it enters the body, allowing it to infect the brain, according to new research. The discovery could lead to new strategies for blocking Cryptococcus neoformans infection and preventing detrimental effects on the host. C. neoformans...
Cowbird chicks do best with two warbler nest mates — not four, not zero, study finds
Brown-headed cowbirds are generalist brood parasites, laying their eggs in the nests of many other bird species and letting the host parents raise their young. A new study seeks to understand the strategies cowbird chicks use to survive in prothonotary warbler nests when they hatch with different numbers of warbler...
Current vaccine approach not enough to eradicate measles
Current vaccination strategies are unlikely to eliminate measles, according to a new study. The paper explores the feasibility of eliminating measles and rubella using predominant vaccination strategies in 93 countries with the highest disease burden.