Soft matter and liquids Research update Squishy silicone rings shine a spotlight on fluid-solid transition Model shows how highly deformable particles, grains and cells respond to external forces Read article: Squishy silicone rings shine a spotlight on fluid-solid transition
Biophysics Research update Mathematical model sheds light on how exercise suppresses tumour growth A simple mathematical model examines the intricate relationship between exercise, immune function and cancer Read article: Mathematical model sheds light on how exercise suppresses tumour growth
Mathematics and computation Research update Genetically engineered bacteria solve computational problems A cell-based biocomputer can identify prime numbers, recognize vowels and answer mathematical questions Read article: Genetically engineered bacteria solve computational problems
Modelling and simulation Feature Field work – the physics of sheep, from phase transitions to collective motion Physics sheds a new insight on the behaviour of sheep flocks, helping with new tips on shepherding Read article: Field work – the physics of sheep, from phase transitions to collective motion
Mathematics and computation Research update Sunflowers ‘dance’ together to share sunlight Zigzag patterns created by circular motion of growing stems Read article: Sunflowers ‘dance’ together to share sunlight
Biophysics Research update Cryo-electron tomography reveals structure of Alzheimer’s plaques and tangles in the brain Researchers determine 3D architecture of the amyloid-beta and tau proteins that aggregate in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease Read article: Cryo-electron tomography reveals structure of Alzheimer’s plaques and tangles in the brain
Careers Feature Peering inside the biological nano-universe: Barbora Špačková on unveiling individual molecules moving in real time Barbora Špačková on moving from theoretical to experimental physics and the joy of refining her technology for real-world applications Read article: Peering inside the biological nano-universe: Barbora Špačková on unveiling individual molecules moving in real time
Soft matter and liquids Feature Could athletes mimic basilisk lizards and turn water-running into an Olympic sport? Ahead of the 2024 Olympics, Nicole Sharp investigates nature’s most extraordinary sprinters Read article: Could athletes mimic basilisk lizards and turn water-running into an Olympic sport?
Biophysics Research update Shapeshifting organism uses ‘cellular origami’ to extend to 30 times its body length Researchers discover a new geometric mechanism previously unknown in biology Read article: Shapeshifting organism uses ‘cellular origami’ to extend to 30 times its body length
Imaging Research update MRI technique detects light-emitting molecules deep inside the brain New method circumvents limitations of optical imaging by making blood vessels sensitive to light from luminescent labelling proteins Read article: MRI technique detects light-emitting molecules deep inside the brain