Science/Technology

Stormy Rains in the Sahara Offer Clues to Past and Future Climate Changes

Stormy Rains in the Sahara Offer Clues to Past and Future Climate Changes

18 March, 2025

New research reveals that heavy precipitation sourced from the Atlantic ocean, are the primary drivers of present-day lake filling in the northwestern Sahara. The study finds that only the most intense and prolonged precipitation events trigger lake-filling episodes, challenging long-standing assumptions about past climate conditions in the region. These findings suggest that projections of enhanced rainfall intensity and frequency in the Sahara could potentially reshape water availability in the desert.


 

New Insights Into the Evolution of Spiders, Scorpions, and Their Relatives

New Insights Into the Evolution of Spiders, Scorpions, and Their Relatives

19 February, 2025

A new study challenges traditional views on arachnid evolution, suggesting that the transition from water to land occurred multiple times rather than in a single event. The research also highlights the role of whole-genome duplication in shaping key traits in spiders and scorpions, such as silk production and venom synthesis. These findings offer new insights into chelicerate phylogeny and provide a foundation for future genetic and evolutionary studies.


 

No More Antibiotics? Scientists Pioneer a Safer Way to Protect Cultured Meat

No More Antibiotics? Scientists Pioneer a Safer Way to Protect Cultured Meat

18 February, 2025

New study explores the use of Random Antimicrobial Peptide Mixtures (RPMs) as a safe and effective alternative to antibiotics in cultured meat production. These synthetic peptide cocktails successfully eliminate bacterial contamination without harming stem cell viability or contributing to antibiotic resistance. The findings highlight RPMs as a promising solution for improving food safety and sustainability in cellular agriculture.


 

Crafting the Perfect Bite of Meat

Crafting the Perfect Bite of Meat

8 January, 2025

Israeli and Palestinian engineers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem develop novel metamaterials for the cost-effective injection molding of whole cuts of meat.