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Can Earthly microbes survive on the moon? Scientists say yes (in the shade)

A new study published in Science Advances found that bacteria and fungi from Earth can survive for at least a week in shaded nooks and crannies around the lunar south pole. The study's findings highlight the need to better understand microbial persistence in extreme lunar environments, which is crucial for future space missions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 20, 2026

Harvesting UV Light from sunlight just got ‘solid’

Researchers at Kyushu University have created a solid-state material that converts visible light into ultraviolet (UV) light under ordinary outdoor sunlight, achieving a conversion efficiency of 1.9%. The material offers advantages for real-world use, including straightforward synthesis and low-cost starting materials.

SourceKyushu University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2026

A marine-inspired sunscreen ingredient made by E. coli

Researchers engineered E. coli microbes to produce the UV-protective compound gadusol, increasing yield by nearly 93 times and showing promise in antioxidant tests. The compound may become an attractive ingredient for sunscreens and skin-care products, offering a greener alternative to traditional ingredients.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2026

Seeing the unseen: Scientists demonstrate dual-mode color generation from invisible light

Researchers develop a rigid organic crystal that emits red light under UV irradiation through excimer formation and generates green light through second harmonic generation under near-infrared exposure. The dual-mode optical behavior operates independently within the same crystal without interference.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2026

Hanbat National University researchers reveal smart transparent woods that block UV and save energy

Researchers from Hanbat National University develop switchable thermochromic transparent woods for smart windows, blocking UV radiation and reducing thermal conductivity. The material enables energy-autonomous light regulation and protects skin without sacrificing visible light.

SourceHanbat National University Industry–University Cooperation Foundation·JournalAdvanced Composites and Hybrid Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

Scientists discover record-breaking ‘light-bending’ material for the workhorse of advanced chipmaking: blue and ultraviolet light

Researchers from TU Delft and Radboud University discovered CuInP₂S₆ (CIPS), a two-dimensional ferroelectric material, can control the pathway and properties of blue and ultraviolet light. CIPS shows giant birefringence in the blue-UV range, making it a potential game-changer for photonics applications.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2025

Spotlight on technology to protect older Australians from respiratory infections

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that commercially available UV-C light appliances reduced rates of viral respiratory infections by more than 12% in aged care facilities. The technology is easily installed and cost-effective, making it a transformative solution for protecting residents from emerging pathogens.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 28, 2025

Key factors in sunscreen testing for personalized UV protection

A retrospective analysis of 1036 participants found that lighter skin showed lower unprotected MED values, while winter conditions correlated with greater UV tolerance. The study advocates for lab-specific prediction models to enhance testing precision and optimize UV protection for diverse populations.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2025

UV light activation of peracetic acid: new insights into radical generation based on excited states

Researchers developed an in-situ EPR setup to accurately identify radicals generated by PAA activation under different UV wavelengths, revealing distinct radical generation pathways. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms of radical formation and transformation using density functional theory calculations.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2025

New research finds fluorescence in feathers of long-eared owls

A recent study published in The Wilson Journal of Ornithology reveals that Long-eared Owls have fluorescent pigments in their feathers that can only be seen under ultraviolet light. The amount of pigment varies within a population and is correlated with age, sex, and size, suggesting alternative functions beyond sexual signaling.

SourceDrexel University·JournalThe Wilson Journal of Ornithology·DateApr 8, 2025

The changing sky that plants see

Researchers developed a numerical tool to quantify sunlight intensity and its influence on plant growth, enabling accurate predictions of sunlight patterns. The model can help farmers optimize greenhouse conditions and planting schedules, leading to improved crop yields.

SourceKyushu University·JournalEcological Informatics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2025

Blind to the burn: Misconceptions about skin cancer risk in the US

Researchers investigated skin cancer risk perceptions and sun-protective behaviors in US adults, finding associations between sociodemographic factors and sunburn risks. Higher education levels, Hispanic origin, and income groups were linked to lower sunburn risks, while married or partnered individuals had higher risks.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateMar 12, 2025

Solution-based ultraviolet photodiode with ZnO Nanoparticle/Poly(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate heterojunction and negative capacitance

Researchers have developed a simple, low-cost, and high-performance ultraviolet detector using ZnO NPs PEDOT: PSS heterojunction. The device exhibits excellent photosensitivity, fast optical switching characteristics, and short rise time compared to other photodetectors.

SourceAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·JournalAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·TypeNews article·DateFeb 20, 2025

To build better fiber optic cables, ask a clam

Researchers discovered that heart cockle shells have translucent areas with hair-thin strands that deliver specific wavelengths of light into the bivalves' tissues. This natural system filters out bad wavelengths and channels in optimal wavelengths for photosynthesis, benefiting the clams' symbiotic algae.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 2, 2024

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered a cancer mechanism that can eliminate tumors – even those resistant to immunotherapy

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a new cancer mechanism that prevents the immune system from attacking tumors. The discovery was made by reversing this mechanism, which stimulates the immune system to fight cancer cells, including those resistant to prevailing forms of immunotherapy.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2024

Record-breaking laser pulses

Researchers at ETH Zurich have set a new record for the strongest laser pulses, surpassing previous records by over 50%, using a special arrangement of mirrors and a semiconductor mirror. The pulses can be used to create high harmonic frequencies up to X-rays, enabling fast processes in the attosecond range.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalOptica·DateOct 11, 2024

Benzoyl peroxide acne drugs lack stability and degrade into carcinogenic benzene including when kept at room temperature, new study

A new study found that benzoyl peroxide acne treatments lack stability and degrade into carcinogenic benzene when exposed to heat, UV light, or stored at room temperature. Refrigeration may be a practical solution to minimize unnecessary exposure until safer formulations are developed.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2024

Towards the realization of compact and portable nuclear clocks

Researchers from Okayama University successfully controlled the population of the thorium-229 isomeric state using X-rays, a crucial step towards building a compact and portable nuclear clock. This achievement demonstrates the potential for nuclear clocks to advance fundamental physics research and other applications such as GPS systems.

SourceOkayama University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2024

Sex matters in how, when, and where melanomas develop

A study analyzing long-term melanoma data reveals that men and women experience different patterns of melanoma development, with women having higher rates in early life but later in life. The research also shows that melanomas arise most commonly on the trunk and head/neck in men, while on limbs in women.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2024

Melanoma incidence and mortality trends in Sweden

A recent study in Sweden found a significant decline in both melanoma incidence and mortality among individuals aged 30-49. The causes of this downward trend are unclear but may be attributed to increased UV protection, public health campaigns, demographic changes, or advancements in melanoma treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateSep 8, 2024