Feathers, essential for thermoregulation, flight, and communication in birds, originate from simple appendages known as proto-feathers, which were present in certain dinosaurs.By studying embryonic development of the chicken, researchers from the University of Geneva (UNIGE) have uncovered a key role of a molecular signalling pathway (the Shh pathway) in their...
Groundbreaking AI tool generates 3D map of the brain
A new AI tool builds sophisticated map of mouse brains.
Scientists call for targeted fiber diets to boost health
Food scientists have reclassified dietary fibers -- beyond just soluble and insoluble -- to better guide nutritional decisions and drive targeted health food products.
Unknown microorganisms used marble and limestone as a habitat
In the desert areas of Namibia, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, research work has revealed unusual structures that are probably due to the activity of an unknown microbiological life form. Unusually small burrows, i.e., tiny tubes that run through the rock in a parallel arrangement from top to bottom, were discovered...
Squirrel-inspired leaping robot can stick a landing on a branch
A leaping robot could have application in search and rescue, construction, even forest monitoring. But how do you design a robot to stick a landing on a branch or pipe? Biologists worked with robot designers to discover how squirrels do it, and used what they learned to design a one-legged...
Science behind ‘Polly want a cracker’ could guide future treatment design for speech disorders
A new study explains how a parakeet's brain helps it to mimic human words.
How to stop being surprised by extreme weather
A team of scientists have brought together methods to see beyond the limitations of conventional weather records, which typically only cover the past century.
Scientists discover protein key to bacteria’s survival in extreme environments
The discovery sheds light on how certain bacteria -- including strains that cause food poisoning and anthrax -- form spores for survival.
Wingless shapes the fly intestine
A study reveals how the Wingless signalling pathway shapes the embryonic intestine of the Drosophila fly, activating a mechanism involved in calcium transport. The finding redefines the role of calcium in organ formation in developing organisms.
When did human language emerge?
Humans' unique language capacity was present at least 135,000 years ago, according to a survey of genomic evidence. As such, language might have entered social use 100,000 years ago.