Phys.org news
Phys.org / Coral restoration projects failing: One-third ineffective and unlikely to scale, study finds
As coral bleaching and deaths become more widespread globally, experts are re-evaluating the benefits of restoration missions to reverse damage and protect some of the world's most species-rich ecosystems.
Phys.org / How do bird nests stay together? Researchers unravel entanglement between stiff, straight rods
The concept of constructing a self-supporting structure made of rods—without the use of nails, ropes, or glue—dates back to Leonardo da Vinci. In the Codex Atlanticus, da Vinci illustrated a design for a self-supporting ...
Phys.org / Scientists make water-repellent replacement for toxic 'forever chemicals'
A team of international scientists has invented a substitute for synthetic chemicals, called PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substances), which are widely used in everyday products despite being hazardous to health and the environment.
Phys.org / Mercury concentrations in tree rings may enable trees to be 'witnesses' of illegal gold mining activities in the Amazon
For hundreds of years, the Amazon has been exploited for its gold. Today, the precious metal is just as sought after, but the remaining tiny gold particles are much harder to find. Mining often happens in artisanal and small-scale ...
Phys.org / A simple animal's response to sickness highlights the nervous system's surprising degree of flexibility
Whether you are a person about town or a worm in a dish, life can throw all kinds of circumstances your way. What you need is a nervous system flexible enough to cope. In a new study, MIT neuroscientists show how even a simple ...
Phys.org / International team calls for new approach to estimate crop yield potential and gaps
An international team of agronomists is calling for a new approach to estimate crop yield potential and gaps—information that is critical in planning how to meet growing food demand.
Phys.org / Platinum-based alloy catalyst can enhance methanol fuel cell efficiency and durability
Replacing traditional fossil fuels with clean, renewable energy sources is expected to solve environmental issues and alleviate the energy crisis. As a novel energy conversion device, fuel cells are capable of efficiently ...
Phys.org / Flex appeal: The trade-off between armor and efficiency in sea turtle shells
When we picture sea turtles in the wild, it's easy to envision them as armored warriors—their hard, resilient shells serving as near-impenetrable shields against oceanic threats like sharks. These sleek, streamlined shells ...
Phys.org / Biologists demonstrate microbiome's key role in moon jellyfish life cycle
Jellyfish are among the oldest animals on Earth, found in all the world's oceans and serve as valuable model systems for biological research. Microbiologists at Kiel University (CAU) have now shown that the asexual reproduction ...
Phys.org / Nurturing mothers help baby monkeys recognize key facial expressions
Baby monkeys who receive more care from their mothers develop stronger facial expression recognition skills as they grow, which could help them to navigate vital social groups more effectively.
Phys.org / DNA analysis reveals gene copy number variation drives rapid adaptation in invasive plants
A breakthrough method for analyzing the DNA of centuries-old plant samples has given scientists an edge in combating the spread of invasive plants. Researchers from Monash University and the University of Melbourne found ...
Phys.org / Flexible ammonia sensor detects gas with ultra-sensitivity and low cost
A research team has successfully developed the world's first ammonia (NH3) gas sensor based on a copper bromide (CuBr) film that can be fabricated through a simple solution process at low temperatures. The findings are published ...