Cells Talk and Help One Another via Tiny Tube Networks
Long-overlooked “tunneling nanotubes” and other bridges between cells act as conduits for sharing RNA, proteins or even whole organelles
Quanta Magazine
The Elusive Calculus of Insect Altruism
A new theory may change the debate over evolution and self-interest among ants, bees and other social bugs
"Smarticle" Robot Swarms Turn Random Behavior into Collective Intelligence
New algorithms show how very simple robots can be made to work together as a group
The Hidden Depth in Math's Simple Puzzles
Mathematician Richard Schwartz explains why he loves problems he can start solving right away, and how computers can help
How Bacteria May Help Regulate Blood Pressure
Smell receptors in kidneys sniff out signals from gut bacteria for cues to moderate blood pressure
Life's First Molecule Was Protein, Not RNA, New Model Suggests
The findings add to the longstanding debate over which were the first self-replicating molecules
The Unforgiving Math That Stops Epidemics
Not getting a flu shot could endanger more than just one’s own health, herd immunity calculations show
Insects Conquered a Watery Realm with Just 2 New Genes
Minor genetic changes can have big evolutionary consequences. When a gene duplication gave some water striders a novel leg part, it opened up a new world for them
Mathematicians Measure Infinities, and Find They're Equal
Proof rests on a surprising link between infinity size and the complexity of mathematical theories
Bacteria Use Brainlike Bursts of Electricity to Communicate
With electrical signals, cells can organize themselves into complex societies and negotiate with other colonies
