China joins space factory race against US with breakthrough in inflatable module tech
China’s “in-orbit factory” has taken shape following a technological breakthrough in the form of an inflatable, reconfigurable space…
Top astrophysicist moves to Hong Kong to head new HKU institute
World-renowned astrophysicist Zhang Bing has joined the University of Hong Kong as a chair professor after nearly three…
China conducts ground tests on inflatable, reconfigurable space manufacturing module
HELSINKI — A Chinese institute recently completed ground tests on what it describes as a reconfigurable flexible on-orbit…
‘Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding’
A study has found that microplastics contribute to poor soil health and release heat-trapping gas into the atmosphere.…
Rhizosphere metabolites influence the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in soil-plant systems
Their study reveals that rhizosphere metabolites—substances secreted by plant roots—play a crucial role in regulating the distribution of…
New genetic trio uncovered behind lilac flower color fading
Flower color not only enhances the ornamental value of plants but also plays vital ecological roles, including attracting…
Scientists decode the survival secrets of a rare Chinese maple
Acer pentaphyllum—a striking maple native to the Yalong River valley in Sichuan, China—was once thought to be extinct.…
How a Prehistoric Genetic Split Helped Plants Conquer Polluted Soils
Newswise — Phytochelatin synthases (PCSs) produce phytochelatins—tiny, cysteine-rich peptides that bind and neutralize toxic metal ions such as…
How Soybeans See the Light: New Genetic Map Illuminates Shade Tolerance Mechanisms
Newswise — In intercropping systems, soybeans grown beneath tall maize plants experience severe shading that disrupts photosynthesis, weakens…
TropiCODB: A Multi-Omics Database Unlocking the Genetic Potential of Tropical Crops
Newswise — By integrating genomic, transcriptomic, metabolomic, variomic, and phenotypic datasets for eight major crops—including cassava, sugarcane, and…
AI-powered fraud: Chinese paper mills are mass-producing fake academic research
Chinese paper mills are using generative artificial intelligence tools to mass produce forged academic papers, a new investigation…
Overcoming chromosomal roadblocks in banana breeding
Bananas (Musa spp.) are both a staple food and a major cash crop for millions of people in…