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Stowers scientists uncover a hidden blueprint in aphids, providing a way to predict what AI couldn't solve alone

Researchers at the Stowers Institute used AlphaFold2 and evolutionary data to predict protein structures in aphids, which were previously inaccessible to AI. The study reveals a common architectural plan among 2,400 BICYCLE proteins, showcasing the evolution's role in helping AI predict protein structures.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2026

AI as a tool in flavor research

Researchers developed an AI-based method to predict bitterness of peptides, enabling de novo design of bitter peptides for improved flavor control. The method used a combination of a protein language model and an artificial neural network to analyze structural data, resulting in the identification of new bitter-tasting peptides.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·Journalnpj Science of Food·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2026

A study by IRB Barcelona and the BSC rethinks the origin of our cells as a story of microbial alliances

A study by IRB Barcelona and BSC suggests that the origin of complex cells was a longer, more gradual process than previously thought. The researchers identified signals from bacterial groups and giant viruses that may have facilitated gene exchange, contributing to the complexity of eukaryotic cells.

USC comparison study of leading targeted therapies for ALK+ lung cancer could lead to better treatment decisions

A USC-led study analyzed insurance claims data from 940 patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer to compare the effectiveness of five tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The results showed alectinib and lorlatinib as promising treatments, offering longer survival times and better treatment duration compared to other options.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalLung Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

AI engineers nanoparticles for improved drug delivery

Biomedical engineers at Duke University developed a platform combining automated wet lab techniques and AI to design nanoparticles for drug delivery. The TuNa-AI platform resulted in a 42.9% increase in successful nanoparticle formation compared to standard approaches.

SourceDuke University·JournalACS Nano·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2025

Too many medicines, too many hospital visits: New study highlights hidden risk for older adults

A new study from the University of Bath found that inappropriate polypharmacy is a major driver of emergency hospital admissions among adults aged 65 and over. The researchers developed a digital tool to proactively identify older adults at risk of medication-related harm, which could reduce preventable emergency hospitalisations.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAge and Ageing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 1, 2025

Stronger Together: New data approach makes plant predictions more accurate

A new data approach using deep learning methods has been developed to improve plant prediction accuracy. The method combines data from four wheat breeding programmes and trial data, resulting in a training set of up to 9,500 genotypes. This allows for more accurate genomic predictions, breaking down data silos across companies.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateMay 13, 2025

Comparative analysis of bioactive ingredients and medicinal functions of natural and cultivated Ophiocordyceps sinensis (berk.)

This review compares the bioactive components and medicinal properties of natural and cultivated O. sinensis, highlighting differences in composition and effectiveness for specific therapeutic uses. Polysaccharides, nucleosides, sterols, and amino acids contribute to their health benefits, with natural specimens often exhibiting higher...

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalFuture Integrative Medicine·DateApr 23, 2025

A comparative review of magnesium isotope analysis methods for emerging geological applications: Double-spike vs. standard-sample-bracketing

The DS method demonstrates superior precision in measuring inter-mineral isotope fractionation, improving temperature determination results. The SSB method achieves sufficient precision but struggles with concentration matching, leading to potential discrepancies in δ26Mg data.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 17, 2025

Research Spotlight: Comparison of single-cell profiling methods reveals strengths and limitations

The study directly compared Droplet-based scRNA (D-scRNA) and Picowell-based scRNA (P-scRNA) platforms for analyzing human mucosal biopsies. D-scRNA provides more detailed insights, but requires resources and may introduce contamination. P-scRNA is gentler, more resource-efficient, but less effective in capturing rare cell types.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 2025

Study provides novel insights into GenAI feedback

Researchers found that GenAI feedback offers timely and personalized feedback, educational benefits as an essay editor and tutor, and social benefits as a supportive environment. However, challenges include limited AI skills, dependency risk, and emotional understanding limitations.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2025

Sexual desire — the force that connects yet also divides

A recent study published in Nature Reviews examines the complex role of sexual desire in relationships, highlighting its potential to fade over time. The research reveals how desire can be shaped by biological, social, and psychological factors, influencing partnership dynamics and relationship longevity.

SourceReichman University·JournalNature Reviews Psychology·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 11, 2025

Study reveals gaps in healthcare quality assessments across Israel, the US, and the UK

A new study reveals striking similarities and critical gaps in how three major countries measure healthcare quality, with an emphasis on family medicine and process-focused metrics. The findings underscore the need for a more balanced approach that includes all aspects of medical care, from infrastructure to patient outcomes.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 28, 2025

Global research on hydrothermal pretreatment: A green leap for biorefineries

A comprehensive bibliometric analysis reveals a steady increase in global research on hydrothermal pretreatment, with China leading the way. The technology has gained significant attention for its environmentally friendly approach to breaking down lignocellulosic biomass and producing biofuels.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 22, 2025

Older Australians turning to cannabis as cigarette prices rise

A study by Curtin University found that when cigarette prices increased, cannabis use among older Australians (aged over 50) rose, with 68,000 people expected to start using cannabis. Researchers used data from the Australian National Drug Strategy Household Survey and ran simulations to predict the impact of price increases.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of Population Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Rates of breast reconstruction after mastectomy have stabilized

Recent US data analysis reveals stabilization of breast reconstruction rates after mastectomy, with a decrease in disparities among racial and insurance groups. The study analyzed over 1.5 million patients from 2005 to 2017, finding that nearly one-third underwent immediate reconstruction, with a shift towards more equitable distribution.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateDec 3, 2024

Using antibiotics alone to treat children with appendicitis is a cost-effective and safe alternative to surgery, study shows

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that using antibiotics alone to treat children with uncomplicated appendicitis is a cost-effective and safe alternative to surgery. This approach resulted in lower costs and similar quality-of-life scores compared to upfront surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateNov 26, 2024

Study calls for city fashion waste shakeup

A study published in Nature Cities analyzed textile waste in various cities, finding that most donated clothes are exported or thrown away. Experts call for a change in how cities handle fashion waste, suggesting the need for local recycling and reuse facilities.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Cities·TypeCase study·DateNov 20, 2024

Gentrification can leave residents feeling powerless and alienated in their own neighborhood, research shows

A new study reveals gentrification's complex impact on residential communities in Seoul, Korea, finding that state-led urban change can lead to emotional displacement of residents. Meanwhile, property-led redevelopment has resulted in direct displacement and replacement of industrial clusters with high-rise residential construction.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalThe Developing Economies·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2024

Noninvasive method to monitor postprandial cardiovascular health

Researchers developed a noninvasive method to monitor postprandial cardiovascular health using spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI). The technique effectively tracks diet-induced changes in cardiovascular physiology, revealing significant differences in tissue responses after consuming high-fat and low-fat meals.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalBiophotonics Discovery·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal reports on emerging trends and implications of non-communicable diseases in China

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are a major global health issue, characterized by their chronic nature and long-term impact on quality of life. In China, understanding the extent and distribution of NCDs is essential for developing effective public health strategies.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 4, 2024

Advanced method for rock engraving analysis: computational answers to riddles on stone

Researchers developed a new method to study rock engravings, integrating technological and visual analysis to uncover the cultural significance of engravings in Timna Park. The approach provides comprehensive insights into the production processes and cultural context of ancient engraving practices.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of Archaeological Method and Theory·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 11, 2024

Significant discrepancies between actual and labelled amount of anti-ageing ingredients in supplements: NUS Medicine study

Researchers found significant discrepancies between actual and labelled amounts of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) and Urolithin A (UA) in anti-ageing supplements. The discrepancies ranged from none to 28% more than stated amounts, highlighting a critical issue in the supplement industry.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalGeroScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Towards cleaner energy: Breakthrough in anode electrode materials for proton conducting solid oxide fuel cells operating at medium temperature

Researchers have developed a novel perovskite-based anode material with mixed hole–proton conduction, achieving high efficiency at low and medium temperatures. The breakthrough could pave the way for important technological advancements in energy technologies.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of the Physical Society of Japan·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Alternative materials to plastics for packaging are not always more sustainable

A recent study analyzed 53 peer-reviewed Life Cycle Assessment studies and found that conventional plastics are not always the least environmentally friendly choice. Bioplastics emerge as a viable alternative for climate change and fossil resource depletion, but other environmental impact categories show some disadvantages. The analysi...

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalWaste Management & Research The Journal for a Sustainable Circular Economy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 16, 2024

Offering both colonoscopy and at-home tests doubled colorectal cancer screening

A study led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that offering patients a choice between colonoscopy and at-home tests more than doubled colorectal cancer screening rates. Approximately 10% of participants received colonoscopies, while around 11% completed at-home fecal immunochemical tests.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 16, 2024

Hyperspectral dark-field microscopy for rapid and accurate identification of cancerous tissues

Researchers have developed a new imaging technique that rapidly and accurately identifies cancerous tissues in breast samples. The method uses machine learning algorithms trained on hyperspectral dark-field microscopy data to pinpoint regions of invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive mucinous carcinoma.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateMay 8, 2024