When city leaders talk about making a town “smart,” they’re usually talking about urban digital twins[1]. These are essentially high-tech, 3D computer models of cities. They are filled with data about buildings, roads and utilities. Built using precision tools like cameras and LiDAR – light detection and ranging – scanners, these twins...
Fern stems reveal secrets of evolution – how constraints in development can lead to new forms
There are few forms of the botanical world as readily identifiable as fern leaves. These often large, lacy fronds lend themselves nicely to watercolor paintings and tricep tattoos alike. Thoreau said it best[1]: “Nature made ferns for pure leaves, to show what she could do in that line.”
But ferns are not just for art and gardens. While...
How dark stars could illuminate the early universe
Scientists working with the James Webb Space Telescope discovered three unusual astronomical objects in early 2025, which may be examples of dark stars[1]. The concept of dark stars has existed for some time and could alter scientists’ understanding of how ordinary stars form. However, their name is somewhat misleading.
“Dark stars” is...
Thousands of genomes reveal the wild wolf genes in most dogs’ DNA
Dogs were the first of any species that people domesticated, and they have been a constant part of human life for millennia. Domesticated species are the plants and animals that have evolved to live alongside humans, providing nearly all of our food and numerous other benefits. Dogs provide protection, hunting assistance, companionship, ...
Read more https://theconversation.com/thousands-of-genomes-reveal-the-wild-wolf-genes-in-most-dogs-dna-261897