Science & Technology
Superconductivity: New tricks for finding better materials
Two years ago, a new class of promising superconductors was discovered: so-called layered nickelates. For the first time a theoretical model is now available that can be used to understand the electronic mechanisms of high-temperature superconductivity…
Insect digestive enzyme activates sugar-containing plant defense substance
The degradation of plant defense substances by insect digestive enzymes can influence the insects’ preference for certain food plants, a new study now shows for the first time. Scientists studied this phenomenon in larvae of the cockchafer (Melolontha …
New research finds air pollution reduces sperm counts through brain inflammation
Researchers have long known that air pollution can increase the risk of disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and fertility, but they did not know the exact mechanism for how it can lead to these health conditions. Now researchers have shown how air pol…
Metabolic memory plays a key role in breast cancer relapse
Molecular targets for therapies that could prevent breast cancer recurrence have been identified by a group of scientists who analyzed tumor cells that proved resistant to the original treatment. Recent advances in early detection and targeted therapy …
Genes may affect the level of harmful bacterial toxins in the bloodstream
Lipopolysaccharide, a virulence factor produced by bacteria, is a toxin that can cause a systemic inflammation via the circulation. In a recently completed study, genetic markers were discovered which are associated with a heightened lipopolysaccharide…
A big leap forward in using iron catalysts for pharmaceuticals
Researchers have created and characterized a novel, three-component cross-coupling reaction that is a ‘tremendous leap forward’ in developing effective and practical iron-based reactions that could be used to create pharmaceuticals. Unlike palladium, t…
Resistance is not futile: Predicting how changes in production, materials impact EV battery life
As demand for electric vehicle batteries continues to grow, researchers have developed a method for predicting how changes to manufacturing processes and materials will impact battery life.