A group of international scientists is rigorously and systematically evaluating if and how the stratosphere could be made just a little bit 'brighter,' reflecting more incoming sunlight so that an ever-warming Earth maintains its cool.
Study of ancient skulls sheds light on human interbreeding with Neanderthals
Research has established that there are traces of Neandertal DNA in the genome of modern humans. Now an exploratory study that assessed the facial structure of prehistoric skulls is offering new insights, and supports the hypothesis that much of this interbreeding took place in the Near East -- the region...
Researchers complete first comprehensive threat assessment of all U.S. trees
For the first time, researchers have completed threat assessments for all 881 native tree species in the contiguous United States, resulting in a comprehensive checklist and synthesis that will serve as a critical baseline to guide future tree conservation efforts.
Detecting nanoplastics in the air
Large pieces of plastic can break down into nanosized particles that often find their way into the soil and water. But they also float in the air, where their presence is less understood. As a step toward better understanding airborne nanoplastics, researchers have now developed a sensor that detects these...
Wind turbine blades could someday be recycled into sweet treats
Wind power is an increasingly popular form of renewable energy. But when it's time to replace the huge turbine blades that convert wind into electricity, disposal is a problem. Today, scientists report a new composite resin for making these behemoths that could later be recycled into new turbine blades or...
DNA profiling solves Australian rabbit plague puzzle
New study proves that single introduction of 24 animals shipped from England in 1859 caused the infamous invasion and argues that wild genetic traits gave these rabbits a devastating advantage over earlier arrivals.
‘Drug factory’ implants eliminate mesothelioma tumors in mice
Researchers have shown they can eradicate advanced-stage mesothelioma tumors in mice in just a few days with a treatment combining tiny, cytokine 'drug factory' implants and a checkpoint inhibitor drug.
Using new technique, researchers make surprising discoveries about how flies’ brains respond to tastes
The study is an example of how brain imaging technology can be adapted to advance knowledge of brain processes and prompt new questions about behavior.
Efficient carbon dioxide reduction under visible light with a novel, inexpensive catalyst
A novel coordination polymer-based photocatalyst for CO2 reduction exhibits unprecedented performance, giving scientists new hope in the fight against global warming. Made from abundant elements and requiring no complex post-synthesis treatment or modifications, this promising photocatalyst could pave the way for a new class of photocatalysts for efficiently converting CO2...
Food allergies can be reversed in mice by targeting the microbiome
People with serious food allergies face potentially fatal consequences if they're accidentally exposed to triggering foods. But tests in allergic mice show that swallowing a form of butyrate -- a compound produced by healthy gut bacteria -- offers protection against peanut allergy, scientists report. The treatment might also counteract other...