Tiny spikes on cucumber fruits, known as trichomes or fruit spines, serve as more than just surface features—they play a key role in defense and quality. Now, researchers have identified CsTs, a C-type lectin receptor-like kinase gene, as a master regulator of trichome development. 

Disruptions in daily light cycles can throw tea plants' internal rhythms into disarray—undermining their ability to photosynthesize efficiently. 

In a pivotal advancement for environmental sustainability, a new study proposes a convergence of carbon capture and storage (CCS) with the circular economy as a powerful strategy against climate change.

Undocumented immigrants have limited insurance coverage after birthing. During the COVID-19 pandemic, New York City extended Medicaid coverage for residents, including immigrants, beyond the normal 60-day period. Now a study has found that this policy changes reduced inequities in health coverage in the postpartum period between immigrants and US-born residents in the city. The reduction in insurance coverage inequity among the Hispanic population was the least compared to other racial groups.

This study investigates the potential of the African swine fever virus (ASFV) p15 protein as an immunogen for developing vaccines against ASF. Researchers identified a high-affinity neutralizing antibody, 4E2, against p15 and elucidated the structure of the p15-4E2 complex. They also constructed two types of virus-like particles (VLPs) displaying p15 and evaluated their protective efficacy in pigs challenged with a moderately virulent ASFV strain.

In a significant development for environmental science, a new study uncovers the substantial role of soil in carbon sequestration through vegetation restoration.