Scientists don't know much about how vegetables and other crops take up and accumulate lead in real-world settings, but new research in Chicago backyard gardens shows tomatoes are likely safe to eat, even when grown in highly lead-contaminated soils.
A novel COVID-19 vaccine using modified bacterial DNA
Researchers describe a different way to build a COVID-19 vaccine, one that would, in theory, remain effective against new and emerging variants and could be taken as a pill, by inhalation or other delivery methods.
Taste sensors keep proteins in order in flies
A set of genes that promote sweet taste sensation is also crucial for protein management during fly development, according to a new study. The finding expands the understanding of a key process in successful development, and suggests a connection between taste-related genes and disorders of protein aggregation.
Fast, efficient COVID-19 biosensor under development
Researchers are developing a 'biosensing platform' for COVID-19 that's fast, efficient, accurate and highly sensitive, which could help scientists stay on top of shifting virus variants.
Antibiotics affect male and female gut microbiomes differently
In a new study, researchers found that antibiotics have sex-specific effects on the gut microbiome makeup of male and female laboratory rats. The findings could have implications for using the drugs in humans to treat or prevent bacterial infection.
Introducing a protocol for using robotic pets in memory care
Researchers have developed a protocol for using robotic pets with older adults with dementia. The protocol uses a low-cost robotic pet, establishes ideal session lengths, and identifies common participant responses to the 'pets' to aid in future research.
Plant study hints evolution may be predictable
Evolution has long been viewed as a rather random process, with the traits of species shaped by chance mutations and environmental events -- and therefore largely unpredictable. But an international team of scientists has found that a particular plant lineage independently evolved three similar leaf types over and over again...
Bioinspired whisker arrays can work as antennae to detect sources of flow disturbances under water or in the air
New research could form the basis of aviation innovation. Artificial whiskers, built as models of whiskers from sea lions, can work as an array of antennae to locate the source of hydrodynamic wakes, similar to the way sea lions use their whiskers.
Desert climate overtaking more of Central Asia
Rising annual temperatures and dwindling yearly precipitation across the mid-latitudes of Central Asia have extended its desert climate 60 miles northward since the 1980s, says a recent study.
New research shows 2/3 of species in global shark fin trade at risk of extinction
Researchers sampled nearly 10,000 shark fin trimmings from markets in Hong Kong -- one of the largest shark fin trade hubs in the world. With a little DNA detective work, they unraveled the mystery of what fin belonged to what species, and found that endangered or threatened species were disproportionately...