Bats depend on open bodies of water such as small ponds and lakes for foraging and drinking. Access to water is particularly important for survival in the increasingly hot and dry summers caused by climate change, the time when female bats are pregnant and rear their young. A scientific team...
Sodium-ion batteries need breakthroughs to compete
A thorough analysis of market, technological, and supply chain outcomes for sodium-ion batteries finds that significant advances are needed before commercialization.
DNA nanorobots can alter artificial cells
Scientists have succeeded in controlling the structure and function of biological membranes with the help of 'DNA origami'. The system they developed may facilitate the transportation of large therapeutic loads into cells. This opens up a new way for the targeted administration of medication and other therapeutic interventions. Thus, a...
Wrong place, wrong time: Why Zika virus hijacks a protein needed for brain growth
The mosquito-borne Zika virus is known for causing microcephaly, a birth defect in which abnormal brain development results in a smaller-than-expected head. A new study shows that the Zika virus hijacks a host protein called ANKLE2, which happens to be important for brain development, to assist its own reproduction. Because...
Chornobyl dogs’ genetic differences not due to mutation
Radiation-induced mutation is unlikely to have induced genetic differences between dog populations in Chornobyl City and the nearby Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
Dangerous bacterial biofilms have a natural enemy
Scientists have now discovered a chemical that plants produce when they're stressed prevents dangerous biofilm from forming. The breakthrough offers potential advances in healthcare as well as preventing equipment corrosion in industrial settings.
Lower access to air conditioning may increase need for emergency care for wildfire smoke exposure
People who have limited access to air conditioning may be at higher risk of seeking emergency care for health problems following exposure to wildfire smoke, according to a new study. The study found that exposure to fine particle matter (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke in California is associated with higher rates...
Magma composition may drive volcanic tremor
A new study based on the sampling and analysis of volcanic ash at Cumbre Vieja volcano in the Canary Islands, located off Africa's northwest coast, suggests that the composition of magma could drive tremors during volcanic eruptions. The findings highlight the potential of volcanic ash analysis as a monitoring and...
‘What is that?’ Scientists explain white patch that appears near northern lights
A whitish, grey patch that sometimes appears in the night sky alongside the northern lights has now been explained.
A fast-moving belly flop: Researchers unveil the unique skills of cricket frogs
The way cricket frogs move across the surface of water has long been thought to resemble walking on water, but researchers have now discovered a different reality.