Astronomers discover first step toward planet formation
Astronomers have gotten very good at spotting the signs of planet formation around stars. But for a complete understanding of planet formation, we also need to study examples where planet…
Consistent metabolism may prove costly for insects in saltier water
Increased salinity usually spells trouble for freshwater insects like mayflies. A new study from North Carolina State University finds that the lack of metabolic responses to salinity may explain why…
Scientists discover the highest energy gamma-rays ever from a pulsar
Scientists using the H.E.S.S. observatory in Namibia have detected the highest energy gamma rays ever from a dead star called a pulsar. The energy of these gamma rays clocked in…
The medicine of the future could be artificial life forms
Creating artificial life is a recurring theme in both science and popular literature, where it conjures images of creeping slime creatures with malevolent intentions or super-cute designer pets. At the…
Two-dimensional compounds can capture carbon from the air
Some of the thinnest materials known to humankind may provide solutions to scientists in their quest to curb the effects of global warming. Known as MXene and MBene compounds, these…
Ruffed grouse population more resilient than expected, genetic study finds
Despite decades of decline, a genetic analysis of ruffed grouse reveals that Pennsylvania’s state bird harbors more genetic diversity and connectivity than expected. The findings suggest that the iconic game…
New technology could reduce lag, improve reliability of online gaming, meetings
Whether you’re battling foes in a virtual arena or collaborating with colleagues across the globe, lag-induced disruptions can be a major hindrance to seamless communication and immersive experiences. That’s why…
A prehistoric cosmic airburst preceded the advent of agriculture in the Levant
Agriculture in Syria started with a bang 12,800 years ago as a fragmented comet slammed into the Earth’s atmosphere. The explosion and subsequent environmental changes forced hunter-gatherers in the prehistoric…
New pipeline makes valuable organic acid from plants — saving money and emissions
In a breakthrough for environmentally friendly chemical production, researchers at the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI) have developed an economical way to make succinic acid, an important…
Bursts of star formation explain mysterious brightness at cosmic dawn
When scientists viewed the James Webb Space Telescope’s (JWST) first images of the universe’s earliest galaxies, they were shocked. The young galaxies appeared too bright, too massive and too mature…