A groundbreaking revelation emerged from ETH Zurich as cell biologists identified the exclusion—a newfound organelle in mammalian cells constructed with DNA rings known as plasmids. This discovery opens a new chapter in our understanding of cellular complexity.
Savoring the Sixth Flavor
USC’s Secrets Unveiled
Unlocking the secrets of taste, a USC-led team exposed a sixth basic flavor. Delving into the intricate world of taste receptors, they revealed how the tongue responds to ammonium chloride, echoing signals akin to the sensation of sour taste.
Bumble Bee Ballet
University of Exeter’s Ingenious Defense
In a nature-inspired ballet, biologists at the University of Exeter observed bumble bees dropping to shake off Asian hornets. This strategic move forces the attackers to lose their grip, showcasing nature’s ingenious defense mechanisms.
Tech Marvels Reshaping Tomorrow
From 18th-Century Mathematics to Robot Architects
Revolutionizing artificial intelligence, the University of Jyväskylä unveiled a technique rooted in 18th-century mathematics, proving that simpler AI models can perform complex tasks without deep learning. Meanwhile, engineers at Northwestern University crafted an AI system designing robots in seconds, including a walking prototype.
Soft Robotics and Energy-Storing Gadgets
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology engineers triumphed with a 130-gram soft robot gripper lifting a 100-kg object. Simultaneously, UC San Diego engineers introduced a novel energy-storing material with applications as both a smartphone casing and battery.
Medical Marvels and Surprising Revelations
SARS-CoV-2 Defense and Stonehenge Mysteries Unveiled
A cross-disciplinary team discovered the human infant immune system’s unique response to SARS-CoV-2, sustaining an antibody response for an astounding 300 days. Additionally, a study from Aberystwyth University revealed the unexpected origin of Stonehenge’s famous “Altar Stone.” Lastly, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health shed light on a potential side effect of COVID-19 vaccines—vaginal bleeding in women of reproductive age.
