ScienceDaily: All - May 23, 2024
Today's top research news
Exploring diversity in cell division
Animals and fungi predominantly use two different modes of cell division -- called open and closed mitosis, respectively. A new study has shown that different species of Ichthyosporea -- marine protists that are close relatives of both animals and fungi -- use either open and closed mitosis, closely correlated to whether the species has multinucleate life cycle stages. The study demonstrates the way animals do cell division might have evolved long before animals themselves did and how this is linked to an organism's life cycle.
Australian study proves 'humans are planet's most frightening predator'
A new study demonstrates that kangaroos, wallabies and other Australian marsupials fear humans far more than any other predator.
Gentler cell therapies for blood cancer
Researchers have developed an approach to 'deleting' a blood system affected by leukemia while simultaneously building up a new, healthy system with donor blood stem cells. The team reports on the promising results obtained in animal experiments and with human cells in the laboratory.
Cement recycling method could help solve one of the world's biggest climate challenges
Researchers have developed a method to produce very low emission concrete at scale -- an innovation that could be transformative in the transition to net zero. The method, which the researchers say is 'an absolute miracle', uses the electrically-powered arc furnaces used for steel recycling to simultaneously recycle cement, the carbon-hungry component of concrete.
Image: Shine Nucha/Shutterstock.com
Astronomers have a new way to measure how fast a black hole spins, by using the wobbly aftermath from its stellar feasting. The results offer a new way to probe supermassive black holes and their evolution across the universe.
Adhesive coatings can prevent scarring around medical implants
Engineers have found a way to eliminate the buildup of scar tissue around implantable devices, by coating them with a hydrogel adhesive. The material binds the device to tissue and prevents the immune system from attacking the device.
The origin of the sun's magnetic field could lie close to its surface
Surprise findings suggest sunspots and solar flares could be generated by a magnetic field within the Sun's outermost layers. If confirmed, the findings could help scientists better predict space weather.
Promethium bound: Rare earth element's secrets exposed
Scientists have uncovered the properties of a rare earth element that was first discovered 80 years ago at the very same laboratory, opening a new pathway for the exploration of elements critical in modern technology, from medicine to space travel.
Under extreme impacts, metals get stronger when heated, study finds
Scientists have discovered that when metal is struck by an object moving at a super high velocity, the heat makes the metal stronger. The finding could lead to new approaches to designing materials for extreme environments, such as shields that protect spacecraft or equipment for high-speed manufacturing.
New AI accurately predicts fly behavior
Researchers trained an AI model to accurately predict male fruit flies' courtship behavior in response to any sight of a female. This breakthrough offers new insight into how the brain processes visual data and may someday pave the way for artificial vision technology.
Strings that can vibrate forever (kind of)
Researchers have engineered string-like resonators capable of vibrating longer at ambient temperature than any previously known solid-state object -- approaching what is currently only achievable near absolute zero temperatures. Their study pushes the edge of nanotechnology and machine learning to make some of the world's most sensitive mechanical sensors.
Smoke covered 70% of California during biggest wildfire years
As much as 70 percent of California was covered by wildfire smoke during parts of 2020 and 2021, according to a new study.
Ancient viral DNA in the human genome linked to major psychiatric disorders
New research has found that thousands of DNA sequences originating from ancient viral infections are expressed in the brain, with some contributing to susceptibility for psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.
'Fossilizing' cracks in infrastructure creates sealing that can even survive earthquakes
In a new study, a team of researchers used research on fossilizing techniques to create a new method for sealing cracks and fractures in rocks and bedrock using a 'concretion-forming resin'. This innovative technique has applications in a wide range of industries, from tunnel construction to long-term underground storage of hazardous materials.
Excavation reveals 'major' ancient migration to Timor Island
The discovery of thousands of stone artefacts and animal bones in a deep cave in Timor Island has led archaeologists to reassess the route that early humans took to reach Australia. Researchers dated and analysed the artefacts and sediment at the Laili rock shelter in central-north Timor-Leste, north of Australia, to pinpoint the arrival of the colonists.