Phys.org news

Phys.org / Iguanodon shinbone growth may be first evidence of an infected skin ulcer in a dinosaur

Fossilized bones can reveal a wealth of details about animals, including their size, appearance, what they ate and any injuries they may have suffered. In a paper published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, researchers ...

14 hours ago
Phys.org / More than 120 molecular species found in giant cloud near Milky Way's center

Astronomers have discovered a second interstellar cloud near the center of the Milky Way that is extraordinarily rich in complex molecules, including several molecules associated with prebiotic chemistry. The newly studied ...

18 hours ago
Phys.org / Hidden DNA in medieval gospels reveals history of deadly livestock virus

Some of Europe's most well-known historic manuscripts, including the York Gospels, have proven to be biological time capsules for uncovering the 3,500-year history of the sheeppox virus (SPPV).

9 hours ago
Phys.org / AI-designed proteins enable a new generation of RNA transporters

RNA-based therapeutics use RNA as a blueprint that enables cells to produce specific proteins—including proteins that can precisely modify genes. For this to work, the RNA must reach the inside of the cell intact. Delivery ...

9 hours ago
Phys.org / What's in an 'O'? Unusual Greek spelling may unlock mystery of ring tied to Pontius Pilate

It's a small, simple ring made of copper alloy and engraved with a handful of Greek letters and the image of a pottery vessel. But its unremarkable appearance belies a remarkable history: The signet was likely connected in ...

10 hours ago
Phys.org / PACMAN AI framework for controlling fusion systems safely makes key decisions in milliseconds

Inside some fusion energy systems, particles hotter than the core of the sun can become unruly in a few thousandths of a second, far faster than any human operator can react. A new software framework developed by researchers ...

10 hours ago
Phys.org / Copper's oxygen-rich early oxidation layer could inform catalyst design and nuclear waste storage

Copper roofs lose their reddish color over time because a pale green layer of copper oxide forms on their surface, protecting the roof from further corrosion for many years. But what exactly happens during the first steps ...

8 hours ago
Phys.org / Fish dads offer new insight into behavioral effects of receiving paternal care

The plot of "Finding Nemo," a film that features an overprotective single father fish taking on dangers at sea to care for his son, may be more reflective of actual fish dad behavior than was previously known. A new study ...

9 hours ago
Phys.org / Tracing the legal history of the kiss—from property and contracts to consent

Is a kiss just a kiss? Or is it a sign of love, affection, a biological urge, a contract or even an assault? Law, history, evolution and anthropology show that it can be all those things.

10 hours ago
Phys.org / Peacock-like displays outpace antlers and tusks in evolutionary change, model suggests

Many animal species, ranging from peacocks and birds of paradise to some lizards, fish and beetles, display physical features or ornaments that can attract potential mates. These ornaments can include colorful plumage, elaborate ...

19 hours ago
Phys.org / Harnessing gold nanorods and light for targeted cancer therapy

One of the major challenges in the quest to beat cancer is developing treatments that can selectively destroy cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. With this in mind, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology ...

9 hours ago
Phys.org / Ancient fossil from China reveals animal‑microbe partnerships dating back 550 million years

We often think of microbes as organisms that live around us, like the Salmonella bacteria and flu viruses that cause illness. But some of our most intimate relationships are with the microbes living inside us.

10 hours ago