Mechanism helps explain the ear’s exquisite sensitivity
A critical gel-like structure in the inner ear moves according to a sound’s frequency, researchers find.
Researchers catalog defects that give 2-D materials amazing properties
Theoretical analysis distinguishes observed “holes” from the huge list of hypothetically possible ones.
Technique identifies electricity-producing bacteria
Microbes screened with a new microfluidic process might be used in power generation or environmental cleanup.
DNA design that anyone can do
Computer program can translate a free-form 2-D drawing into a DNA structure.
A “pacemaker” for North African climate
Study shows the Sahara swung between lush and desert conditions every 20,000 years, in sync with monsoon activity.
Modeling climate risk where it hits home
A new MIT-led study projects a dramatic increase in annual high-heat days in the U.S. Northeast by the century’s end.
Gut-brain connection signals worms to alter behavior while eating
Study may lead to a better understanding of the digestive tract’s nervous system.
Study offers new view of how cartels work
Less data-sharing among firms can actually lead to more collusion, economists find.
Tracking the footprints of protein synthesis
Researchers refine a method to quantify protein production, show that the precision with which bacteria and eukaryotes tune their gene expression is remarkably similar.
New climate model to be built from the ground up
Scientists and engineers will collaborate in a new Climate Modeling Alliance to advance climate modeling and prediction.
Atoms stand in for electrons in system for probing high-temperature superconductors
Using new “quantum emulator,” physicists can observe individual atoms moving through these materials, and measure their speed.
LIGO and Virgo announce four new gravitational-wave detections
The observatories are also releasing their first catalog of gravitational-wave events.
Potential arthritis treatment prevents cartilage breakdown
Injectable material made of nanoscale particles can deliver arthritis drugs throughout cartilage.
Activating a new understanding of gene regulation
Study reveals the role of the activation domain, a part of transcription factors previously shrouded in mystery.
Study opens route to ultra-low-power microchips
Innovative approach to controlling magnetism could lead to next-generation memory and logic devices.