How evolution has optimized the magnetic sensor in birds
by Phys.org
Phys.org— Migratory birds are able to navigate and orientate with astonishing accuracy using various mechanisms, including a magnetic compass. A team led by biologists Dr. Corinna Langebrake and Prof. Dr. Miriam Liedvogel from the University of Oldenburg and the Institute of Avian Research "Vogelwarte Helgoland" in Wilhelmshaven has now compared the genomes of several hundred bird species and found further evidence that a specific protein in the birds' eyes is the magnetoreceptor which underlies this...
The Guardian—From birds, to cattle, to us? Could bird flu be the next pandemic? – podcast. As bird flu is confirmed in 33 cattle herds across eight US states, Ian Sample talks to virologist Dr Ed Hutchinson of Glasgow University about why this development has taken scientists by surprise, and how prepared we are for the possibility it might start spreading among humans Guardian reporting on this topic Continue reading
Phys.org—Scientists simulate magnetization reversal of Nd-Fe-B magnets using large-scale finite element models. NIMS has succeeded in simulating the magnetization reversal of Nd-Fe-B magnets using large-scale finite element models constructed based on tomographic data obtained by electron microscopy.
Fortune—Traces of bird flu found in pasteurized milk, FDA says, with virus traveling from birds, to cattle, to humans, and chickens. The agency stressed that the material is inactivated and that the findings do not represent a risk to consumers.