Phys.org news

Phys.org / How stem cell descendants preserve flexibility while maintaining distinct identities

Stem cells are the body's ultimate shape-shifters, sustaining tissues by balancing two competing demands: maintaining their own population and generating specialized descendants. In many tissues, some early descendants can ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Molecular 'leash' measures force-sensing protein activation at about 15 piconewtons

Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have built a molecular "leash" to pull directly on a force-sensing protein called Piezo1, and discovered it switches on at about 15 piconewtons, proving that it can ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / What this AI epitope library means for vaccines, immunotherapy and biosensors

A new tool makes it possible to screen millions of tiny protein fragments and select those that can be recognized by the immune system. The CIC biomaGUNE Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials has developed epiGPTope, ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Teachers tend to help the same kids repeatedly when using AI-powered tutoring tools

A new study finds teachers tend to provide assistance to similar subsets of students when using AI-powered educational tools, rather than touching base regularly with everyone in their classes. The findings could be used ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Rich biodiversity found in Japan's deepest ocean trenches, including an unidentified 'mystery' species

A new study published in the Biodiversity Data Journal provides a profound look at life up to nearly 10 kilometers below the ocean's surface in the Japan, Ryukyu, and Izu-Ogasawara trenches. The research catalogs at least ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Bird flu spread could be impacted by where waterfowl like to live

The movement patterns of waterfowl, including ducks, swans and geese, may affect the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza in bird populations, according to a new study from the University of Georgia. The findings are ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Ranks of Disparity: New approach fixes flaw in fairness algorithms

As organizations increasingly rely on algorithms to rank candidates for jobs, university spots, and financial services, a new method, named hyperFA*IR, offers a more principled approach when picking candidates based on a ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Social honey bees stay cool: How groups mitigate heat-triggered hormone spikes

Heat can change a honey bee's hormone levels, but only if the bee is alone. New research from MSU entomologist Zachary Huang shows that isolated honey bees experience a rapid hormonal rise when exposed to high temperatures, ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Quantum computing without interruptions

Mid-circuit measurements are one of the biggest practical hurdles in quantum error correction on encoded qubits. Researchers in Innsbruck and Aachen have now proposed and experimentally demonstrated that a universal fault-tolerant ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / A layered approach sharpens brain signals in optical imaging

Near-infrared spectroscopy, or fNIRS, offers a way to monitor brain activity without surgery or radiation by tracking changes in blood flow and oxygenation. Light sources placed on the scalp send near-infrared light into ...

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Oyster reefs stack up for shoreline protection

Oyster reef living shorelines have been found to provide a resilient and adaptive alternative to conventional hard coastal protection, reducing wave energy while supporting oyster colonization.

Apr 7, 2026
Phys.org / Tech can enable cross-species experiences, new research suggests

Giving lemurs the chance to use technology to share control of sensory experiences with zoo visitors can help create meaningful connections between humans and animals, new research suggests.

Apr 7, 2026