A new study found that rates of cannabis use and daily cannabis use have increased across the U.S., and current cannabis use and daily use are substantially higher among individuals residing in states that have legalized recreational cannabis use. Rates of cannabis use are even higher among Americans 12 and...
Climate change and civil unrest among the ancient Maya
An extended period of turmoil in the prehistoric Maya city of Mayapan, in the Yucatan region of Mexico, was marked by population declines, political rivalries and civil conflict. Between 1441 and 1461 CE the strife reached an unfortunate crescendo -- the complete institutional collapse and abandonment of the city. This...
Songbird can keep time with the best of them
When it comes to keeping time, an unassuming species of songbird is on a par with professional musicians, according to new research.
Novel HIV combination therapies could prevent viral escape and rebound
Carefully designed cocktails of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) could help treat HIV while minimizing the risk of the virus escaping treatment, suggests a new study.
Three new species of black-bellied salamander found in southern Appalachian Mountains
Three new species of black-bellied salamander have been discovered. The new salamanders, which are found in the southern Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States, stem from black-bellied populations that were long considered to be a single species.
New database to support conservation
Scientists have created a new tool to fill the large gaps in our understanding of where and how human activities threaten wild species around the world.
Invasive fish: Sperm hijacking as success strategy
The Prussian carp is considered one of the most successful invasive fish species in Europe. Its ability to reproduce asexually gives it a major advantage over competing fish. An international research team has now managed to describe the complete genome of the Prussian carp for the first time. This also...
New approach to exposing illegal and informal mercury trading
The Minamata Convention (MC) aims to restrict and limit the trading of mercury, a highly toxic pollutant. While most countries involved in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), the biggest source of mercury pollution, are MC parties, its efficacy has remained unclear. Researchers have now developed a new method of...
New study finds environmental injustice is key to decoding climate change debate
A new study found that Miami's history of environmental injustice was the key to understanding why different groups were often talking at cross-purposes, leading to misunderstandings and disagreements about climate change and what they believe should be done about it.
Climate warming, water management impacts on West Florida’s continental shelf
Scientists conducted a study that provides an assessment of the potential effects of climate warming and water management of the West Florida Shelf dynamics during two particular events that affect its hydrology through the lens of a very high-resolution model.