Researchers have discovered that sea slugs use sunlight to enhance their bright colors, a defense mechanism against predators. The study, published in the Journal of Animal Ecology, analyzed 45 species and showed that those active during the day use vivid hues to signal toxicity, while nocturnal species rely less on visual signals.

A genomic analysis published in Nature Plants reveals that all roses, regardless of color, trace back to a common ancestor with yellow petals and seven leaflets. The study, which involved sequencing more than 200 samples representing 84 species, highlights that regardless of the current variations in rose color, they all share this singular origin.

Astronomers have found that Altjira, a distant trans-Neptunian object, might be a trinary system like Lempo, according to a study in The Planetary Science Journal. The moon of Altjira exhibits a precessing orbit, suggesting that Altjira could be two objects rather than one. “Although this icy debris is in the outer solar system, this was the first step into forming the planets that we have today," said astronomer Benjamin Proudfoot.

Researchers have observed a superradiant phase transition, a quantum phenomenon first predicted over five decades ago, by applying a strong magnetic field to a crystal of iron, erbium and oxygen at near absolute zero. The discovery, detailed in a study in Science Advances, could have significant implications for quantum computing, including enhancing quantum sensors, improving qubit stability and reducing quantum noise.

A study in the journal American Psychologist found that maternal affection during childhood is linked to the development of personality traits such as openness, conscientiousness and agreeableness by age 18. The research used data from 2,232 British twins, allowing scientists to isolate the impact of parenting from genetic and environmental factors.

Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicates a reversal in binge drinking trends among young adults, with women aged 18 to 25 now showing higher rates of it than their male counterparts. This marks a significant shift from previous patterns observed from 2017 to 2019. The study highlights cultural changes and targeted marketing as possible factors influencing the trend.

Diabetes increases the five-year mortality rate by 62% after major lower limb amputation, despite a lower 30-day mortality rate of 9.2%, according to a study published in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice. The research, which analyzed data from 2,542 adults, also found that above-knee amputations and peripheral vascular disease further elevate risk.

The Florida State University College of Medicine has received a $3 million grant from the Department of Defense to test a potential post-traumatic stress disorder therapy that combines virtual reality and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Participants will undergo virtual reality mindfulness training, followed by accelerated TMS if symptoms don't improve.

November 6–9, 2025
STEM students across the globe are invited to showcase their research and compete for awards at the 2025 International Forum on Research Excellence (IFoRE), powered by Sigma Xi. IFoRE is going virtual in 2025, which means no travel expenses and easy access for all presenting students. Students who participate in the virtual event will get unique opportunities to network with peers and professionals in their field, gain valuable research presentation experience, and discover future opportunities with school programs and employers. All competing students will be eligible for monetary awards in their discipline and education level. Learn more at experienceIFoRE.