Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Multi-step fragmentation of relativistic projectiles in thick targets: A gateway to nuclei on the edge of stability

Researchers propose a novel strategy to increase production of exotic nuclei near the neutron drip line through multi-step fragmentation of high-energy beams in thick targets. This approach effectively enhances yields of neutron-rich fragments, overcoming limitations imposed by low cross sections.

SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 6, 2025

Unveiling shape coexistence near mercury-172: A new window into nuclear structure

A recent theoretical study maps several isotopes' potential energy surfaces, uncovering a range of ground-state and isomeric shapes that depend sensitively on nuclear pairing interactions. The research reveals rare prosperous shape coexistence in a single nucleus, challenging traditional nuclear structure models.

SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 19, 2025

Researchers find 'internal clock' within live human cells

Scientists have identified a previously undetected motion in the human cell nucleus, which decreases over time during the cell cycle and marks the first physical feature to systematically change with the cell cycle. This internal clock-like mechanism could contribute to understanding nuclear envelope function in health and disease.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2017

Birds evolved ultraviolet vision several times

Researchers sequenced genes responsible for light-sensitive pigment in 40 bird species, revealing at least 14 shifts between violet and ultraviolet color vision. This evolution is driven by single nucleotide changes in DNA, resulting in unique visual adaptations among birds.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateFeb 10, 2013

Researchers identify key culprit causing muscle atrophy

A team of researchers from the University of Iowa has identified Gadd45a as a key culprit causing muscle atrophy, reprogramming hundreds of genes that ultimately lead to muscle deterioration. The protein affects muscles in two main ways: instructing cells to produce fewer proteins and causing existing proteins to break down.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 13, 2012