A cat’s catch leads scientists to discover new virus in Florida shrew
A pet cat’s prey has led scientists to discover and genetically map a new strain of orthoreovirus in a Florida shrew.
Chemists forge stable 20-electron molecule, defying a core rule
In a groundbreaking discovery, chemists have created a stable 20-electron version of a classic compound, upending a foundational rule of chemical stability and opening new possibilities for materials science.
3D models confirm sharks obey a century-old biological law
Using high-resolution 3D models, researchers have confirmed that 54 diverse shark species are all constrained by the same fundamental biological scaling law that governs body shape and function.
Scientists find ‘slow quakes’ act as both trigger and shock absorber
New research reveals that mysterious “slow earthquakes” deep beneath the ocean can both release tectonic pressure harmlessly and trigger major seismic events dangerously.
Why cats sleep on their left side: It’s a brainy survival tactic
Researchers conclude that a cat’s preference for sleeping on its left side is a key survival strategy that primes its brain to respond to threats rapidly.
Scientists develop surfaces that trick bacteria, thwarting deadly biofilms
A breakthrough in material science reveals how microscopic surface textures can trick bacteria into self-lubricating, preventing the formation of dangerous biofilms on medical plastics.
Infrared search for hidden ‘Planet Nine’ reveals two new candidates
By searching for the faint heat signature of a hidden world, astronomers have identified two promising new candidates for the mysterious Planet Nine.
Study finds wild Galápagos tomatoes resurrecting ancient chemical defenses
New research reveals how a single enzyme acts as a molecular switch to create distinct chemical defenses in plants, such as tomatoes and eggplants, even driving evolution in reverse.
In a twist, study finds more microplastics in drinks from glass bottles than plastic ones
Contrary to expectations, a new study found that paint shedding from metal caps makes drinks in glass bottles a more significant source of microplastic contamination than those in plastic.
Fingernail-sized spectrometer could bring lab-grade analysis to smartphones
At a Glance Researchers from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have developed an ultra-compact,…