Plants communicate through volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that help them respond to herbivorous pest attacks. This review explored the mechanisms behind these plant communications and their applications in sustainable agriculture. The study emphasized how integrating VOC-based technologies with companion planting and biostimulants can enhance pest control strategies. This approach has the potential to reduce reliance on harmful chemicals in farming practices, paving the way for more eco-friendly agricultural solutions to protect plants and increase yield.

ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group (ECOG-ACRIN) and Caris Life Sciences^®(Caris) announced today a multi-year research collaboration. The first project is underway and leverages the tumor tissue samples from the Trial Assigning Individualized Options for Treatment (Rx) or TAILORx, breast cancer clinical trial. TAILORx is one of the world's largest breast cancer research resources. Additionally, ECOG-ACRIN joins the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance. 

In a study published in SCIENCE CHINA Chemistry, researchers have showcased the exceptional catalytic performance of a Pt@MFI catalyst in the co-conversion of methane and hexane. The study delves into the influence of K on the size and electronic properties of Pt encapsulated in MFI zeolites, leading to the effective dispersion and stabilization of Pt clusters and, consequently, enhanced catalytic activity. Furthermore, the research employs isotopic labeling and solid-state NMR techniques to elucidate the methane participation in the co-aromatization process.

In a paper published in SCIENCE CHINA Chemistry, the recent achievements of the selective electrocatalytic ethylene oxidation to ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol are summarized. Future research directions and opportunities for pushing the process towards practical application have been proposed.

In a paper published in SCIENCE CHINA Earth Sciences, a team of researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis using the most extensive and densely sampled dataset of sedimentary organic carbon (OC) and related parameters to date, to summarize and elucidate the distribution and burial patterns of sedimentary OC, and assess the carbon sink effect of OC burial in the eastern China seas. This research establishes the "baseline" of sedimentary OC and provides a scientific basis for accurately understanding the natural ecological carbon sequestration capacity in China's coastal areas.

In a Nature Communications study published today (Oct. 24), a University at Buffalo-led research team describes how a gene called NANOG can improve the regrowth of damaged nerves after traumatic nerve injuries, like those sustained in motor vehicle accidents or gunshot wounds. NANOG’s name is derived from Tír na nÓg, which is a mythical land associated with youth, beauty and joy.

If a phone or other electronic device was made of soft materials, how would that change its use? Would it be more durable? If hospital health monitoring equipment was made of less rigid components, would it make it easier for patients to wear? While electronics of that type may still be far in the future, Virginia Tech researchers have developed an innovative method for constructing the soft electronic components that make them up. The focus of a project from the team of Michael Bartlett, principal investigator and associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, is on the circuits that manage all the electronic connections inside.