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Our growing demand for water threatens the world's development and security. Solving this crisis need not involve flashy technologies. But it will require science, plus a large dose of political will.
Living on the flood plain of three great rivers, the people of Bangladesh endure floods, drought, water-borne disease and much else besides. Can they entertain any hope of relief? Tom Clarke investigates.
A single layer of epithelial cells makes up the primary barrier to infection in our bodies. This layer is poised to repair damage quickly, patching up any holes to keep invading organisms out.
The combined efforts of telescopes around the world have tracked the development of the 'afterglow' that follows a γ-ray burst, from only minutes after the burst until weeks later.
Genetic analyses look for differences in gene sequence that could explain variation in physical traits. Gene-expression studies provide a snapshot of active genes. These approaches are now combined, to great effect.
Reports of signals travelling faster than the speed of light have captured the imagination of scientists and laymen alike. But there is an explanation for these effects that leaves Einstein's tenet intact.
A key step in hair-follicle development is the rearrangement of epithelial stem cells. It seems that reduced production of an adhesion protein, through the concerted action of two signalling pathways, is crucial for this process.
The route to new therapeutics often ends in costly failure. The secret of success is the rapid and accurate identification of drug targets with true potential, says Caitlin Smith.
The doubling of public funds for life-science research in the United States has increased the number of postdocs, but it has yet to create significantly more permanent academic positions, says Eugene Russo.
The European Union has dreams of becoming a centralized scientific powerhouse. But first it needs to solve its brain-drain problem. Quirin Schiermeier reports.
