An exhaustive and painstaking comparison of the genomes of multiple strains of the cacao tree by a team of researchers has provided insights into the role genomic structural variants play in the regulation of gene expression and chromosome evolution, giving rise to the differences within populations of the plant.
articles
Pollinators: The First Global Risk Index for Species Declines and Effects on Humanity
Disappearing habitats and use of pesticides are driving the loss of pollinator species around the world, posing a threat to “ecosystem services” that provide food and wellbeing to many millions – particularly in the Global South – as well as billions of dollars in crop productivity.
Wildfire Smoke May Have Contributed to Thousands of Extra COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Western U.S. in 2020
Thousands of COVID-19 cases and deaths in California, Oregon, and Washington between March and December 2020 may be attributable to increases in fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke, according to a new study co-authored by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
The Arctic Ocean’s Deep Past Provides Clues to Its Imminent Future
As the North Pole, the Arctic Ocean and the surrounding Arctic land warm rapidly, scientists are racing to understand the warming’s effects on Arctic ecosystems.
Oceans Primed for Peak of Hurricane Season
Sea surface temperatures are a fair predictor of the readiness of the ocean to fuel and sustain storms.
Robotic Floats Provide New Look at Ocean Health and Global Carbon Cycle
Microscopic marine life plays a fundamental role in the health of the ocean and, ultimately, the planet.