Phys.org news

Phys.org / Life from oceans to savannas explained with one single rule
A simple rule that seems to govern how life is organized on Earth is described in a new study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution.

Phys.org / Magnetism in new exotic material opens the way for robust quantum computers
The entry of quantum computers into society is currently hindered by their sensitivity to disturbances in the environment. Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden, and Aalto University and the University ...

Phys.org / Graphene foam supports lab-grown cartilage for future osteoarthritis treatments
Boise State University researchers have developed a new technique and platform to communicate with cells and help drive them toward cartilage formation. Their work leverages a 3D biocompatible form of carbon known as graphene ...

Phys.org / Engineered nanostructures boost CAR T-cell potency and longevity for cancer therapy
Our immune system is designed to protect us by recognizing and attacking infected or abnormal cells. However, cancer cells often manage to "cheat" the immune system by pretending to be healthy cells and thus disabling immune ...

Phys.org / 'String breaking' observed in 2D quantum simulator
An international team led by Innsbruck quantum physicist Peter Zoller, together with the US company QuEra Computing, has directly observed a gauge field theory similar to models from particle physics in a two-dimensional ...

Phys.org / Ancient DNA analysis reveals regional migration patterns and local interactions in coastal Papua New Guinea
In the rugged landscapes of Papua New Guinea—where more than 800 languages echo across valleys and coasts—a remarkable discovery has brought new clarity to one of humanity's greatest migrations.

Phys.org / Symmetry breaking in meniscus splitting: Boundary conditions reveal surprising behavior
Everything in nature has a geometric pattern—from the tiger's stripes and spirals in flowers to the unique fingerprints of each human being. While these patterns are sometimes symmetrical, most of such patterns lack symmetry, ...

Phys.org / Wild cockatoos in Western Sydney learn how to drink from water fountains
A team of animal behaviorists at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior in Germany, working with a colleague from Western Sydney University, in Australia, has discovered that wild cockatoos in Australia have figured ...

Phys.org / Microbes that extract rare earth elements can also capture carbon
A small but mighty microbe that can safely extract the rare earth and other critical elements for building everything from satellites to solar panels has another superpower: capturing carbon dioxide.

Phys.org / AI uncovers hidden airport hotspots that support global wildlife trafficking
A study recently published in Communications Earth & Environment reveals how AI and network science can help authorities and conservation organizations combat the illegal wildlife trade by identifying trafficking hubs—even ...

Phys.org / The atmosphere's growing thirst is making droughts worse, even where it rains
Hot air holds more moisture. That's why you can blow your hair dry even after a steamy shower. It's also what dumps rain in the tropics and sucks water from desert soils.

Phys.org / Study projects that increasing wildfires in Canada and Siberia will actually slow global warming
Even if you live far from the boreal forests in Canada and Siberia, you've likely noticed an increase in smoke from their forest fires. During major blazes in 2023, the smoke tinted the New York sky orange and drifted as ...