News on early, curiosity-driven science that opens new directions. Covers materials discovery, AI-guided research, pediatric research standards, and energy science.
Researchers at Curtin University have identified a new species of pterosaur, Haliskia peterseni, from 100-million-year-old fossilized bones found in western Queensland. The specimen is 22% complete and includes features such as complete lower jaws, teeth, and wing bones.
A growth factor called BMP7 has been found to promote cardiomyocyte proliferation and regeneration in both zebrafish and adult mice. This discovery offers a promising new approach to treating heart disease by stimulating cardiac muscle cell regrowth even in later stages of life.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine build a minimal synthetic cell that responds to external chemical cues, demonstrating symmetry breaking - a vital biological principle. The findings have potential applications in targeted drug delivery and environmental sensing.
Researchers at Wyss Institute develop subcutaneous scaffolds to restimulate CAR-T cells, increasing therapeutic efficacy in mice with aggressive blood tumors. The biomaterials increase CAR-T cell numbers and steer differentiation into tumor-killing T cells.
Scientists have discovered unique periodic structures in manganese germanide that behave like magnetic monopoles and antimonopoles. The researchers studied the collective excitation modes of these structures, revealing a way to experimentally determine their spatial configuration.
A multidisciplinary research team has developed a predictive tool for designing complex metal alloys that can withstand extreme temperatures. By analyzing the degradation of high-entropy alloys, the team discovered universal rules that can predict oxidation behavior in these alloys.
A team of researchers at Penn has developed an artificial intelligence tool that can mine the vast and largely unexplored biological data from over 10 million molecules to discover new candidates for antibiotics. The deep learning approach identified thousands of candidates in just a few hours, with many showing preclinical potential.
Researchers uncover new clues about the early universe, finding spiral galaxies were prevalent as early as 2 billion years after the universe formed. This discovery challenges previous theories and provides insight into how spiral galaxies like the Milky Way formed over time.
Researchers have discovered ancient termite mounds in Namaqualand, South Africa that date back a staggering 34,000 years. The mounds, which are still inhabited by termites, provide valuable insights into prehistoric climate conditions and natural carbon sequestration processes.
Texas A&M University has received a $1.5 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to develop a technology capable of separating hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in two ways: designing and testing a separation technology, and incorporating machine learning-based data-driven decision frameworks for reverse logistics.
A University of Adelaide research team used a new method to date garnet grains in South Australian pink sand, revealing they are around 590 million years old. This age does not match local geological events, suggesting the garnet originated from an unknown ancient Antarctic mountain belt beneath the ice sheet.
Dr. Jeetain Mittal's NIH grant will support multiscale computational models investigating phase separation in biology, particularly heterochromatin formation and its role in neurodegenerative diseases. The research aims to elucidate the molecular origins of phase separation using innovative models and methods.
Researchers have developed a method to create and control optical qubits in silicon with high precision, enabling the fabrication of reliable quantum computers. This breakthrough could advance quantum computing and networking capabilities, paving the way for breakthroughs in human health, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence.
Researchers discovered wind from a black hole's radiation blasting gas out of its galaxy at an unprecedented speed. The study sheds light on how active black holes shape their galaxies by spurting on or snuffing out new star formation.
Researchers discover that epigenetic marks, particularly H3K27ac, are crucial for instructing genes to express themselves and generate folds. The Cux2 protein is found to be a master factor that utilizes the epigenetic landscape to regulate gene expression, leading to the formation of folds in the cerebral cortex.
Researchers compiled over 100 investigators' data from more than two dozen countries, increasing human spaceflight data by 10-fold. The results revealed longer-lasting molecular and physiologic changes distinct between crew members, targeting new areas for aerospace medicine.
Researchers have discovered a better way to identify those at high risk of potential heart attacks and strokes by adding genetic information to health checks. The study found that combining clinical risk scores with polygenic risk scores significantly improves identification rates, especially among younger people.
A study at Nagoya University reveals the formation of a superlattice structure in gallium nitride and magnesium, leading to enhanced hole transport and compressive strain. This breakthrough has potential applications in improving GaN-based devices for energy-efficient electronics.
The Pennington Biomedical Research Center is conducting a clinical trial to better understand lipedema. Participants will undergo comprehensive assessments and imaging techniques to help advance medical knowledge related to chronic disease. Compensation of up to $475 is offered for participation in the three-month study.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered the mechanism of action of the widely-used epilepsy drug perampanel, which targets the AMPA receptor to dampen brain cell excitability. The study provides new insights into the potential applications of perampanel in treating other neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease,...
Researchers developed Epitope Binning-seq to analyze epitopes in monoclonal antibodies. The method accurately classified antibodies into distinct epitope bins, providing valuable insights into their binding patterns and streamlining early antibody drug development.
Sam Haynes, a professor of history at UTA, is recognized for his extensive scholarly output, including four books and several edited volumes. His recent publication won a prize in the study of race, national identity, and power in 19th-century US history. Jaehoon Yu, a physics professor, is honored for his groundbreaking research on th...
A University of Houston researcher has made a breakthrough discovery about the development of the heart in the womb, revealing that a certain gene deletion can cause a common type of heart muscle disease called left ventricular non-compaction.
Researchers discovered that biochemical bonds between fats and proteins in the mitochondrion play a crucial role in cellular energy production. Introducing mutations into a specific protein-lipid interaction weakened its structure and lowered its function.
The study highlights significant advancements in genome sequencing, transcriptome, proteomics, and metabolomics in Rosaceae plants. Multi-omics joint analysis has elucidated complex genetic and biochemical networks regulating important traits.
A new study analyzed over 14,600 scientific publications funded by more than $4 billion in NIH grants, revealing key research topics such as clinical trials, vaccine distribution, and virology. The findings suggest that half of the funding went to five states: North Carolina, Washington, New York, California, and Massachusetts.
Researchers discovered a novel miRNA module regulating tanshinone and phenolic acid biosynthesis in Salvia miltiorrhiza. The Smi-miR858a-SmMYB module's dual regulatory pathways offer new possibilities for improving the quality of Danshen through genetic manipulation.
A study led by researchers from the University of Arizona Cancer Center identified a biological mechanism that could lead to more effective treatments for breast cancer that has metastasized to the brain. By targeting the autophagy pathway, the researchers were able to disrupt breast cancer cells' ability to form brain metastases.
A team of researchers led by Virginia Tech's Shuhai Xiao discovered a 550 million-year-old sea sponge that challenges previous theories about its evolution. The fossil, found in China, suggests that early sponges may have had soft-bodied skeletons and only later developed mineralized structures.
Astronomers have detected a neutron star spinning at an unprecedentedly slow rate, defying the typical mind-bending speeds of these ultra-dense stars. The object emits radio signals every 54 minutes, offering new insights into its complex life cycle and potential implications for our understanding of stellar objects.
Scientists developed a new technique to map relationships between genes and regulatory elements, enabling them to determine when enhancers are active and which genes they control. This could lead to the identification of potential drug targets for genetic disorders.
Senescent cells, 'zombie-like' cells that resist death, accumulate in the brain with age, contributing to cognitive declines and frailty. Researchers identified a specific pathway linked to senescence in fruit fly brains, potentially paving the way for therapies to delay age-associated pathologies.
Researchers found that eating more than one gram of sodium per day increases the likelihood of eczema flares by 22%, making it easier for patients to manage their symptoms. Eczema affects over 31 million people in the US and can be difficult to cope with when unpredictable.
A new study uses machine learning to search for antibiotics in a vast dataset of microbial genomes, identifying 863,498 candidate antimicrobial peptides. Promising results are observed in initial tests against disease-causing bacteria and preclinical animal models.
A recent study has identified Nup358 as a critical regulator of myeloid cell development, revealing its role in the differentiation process of early progenitors. The findings provide insights into how alterations in Nup358 contribute to blood malignancies and may lead to novel therapies targeting transport machinery like NPCs.
A recent study discovered a critical brain signal mediated by dopamine and its 'D2' receptors that plays a crucial role in timing actions. The research team used novel imaging techniques to observe this activity before self-timed presses, finding a gradual increase in brain signals about half a second prior.
Scientists have discovered a new plant species, Thismia malayana, in the tropical rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia. The plant acts as a parasite, stealing carbon resources from fungi on its roots to thrive in low-light conditions.
Astronomers from the University of Sydney and CSIRO have detected a slow-spinning neutron star with a period of nearly an hour, breaking all known rules. This discovery provides new insights into the complex life cycles of stellar objects and may prompt a reconsideration of our understanding of neutron stars or white dwarfs.
Sean McWilliams' team will study stellar-mass and massive binary inspirals, improving modeling accuracy for the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). The project aims to enhance the instrument's science mission by making necessary dramatic improvements in modeling accuracy.
Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 in male reproductive cells even when PCR testing failed, revealing a prolonged infection period of up to 90 days. The virus can remain in sperm for 110 days, reducing semen quality and raising concerns for natural conception and assisted reproduction.
The study reveals age-related changes in lipid metabolism, including increased BMP-type lipids in kidneys and liver, and sex-specific differences in galactosylceramide levels. These findings may lead to better understanding of chronic diseases and the development of targeted treatments.
A study led by Washington State University scientists found that inhibiting CDK7 could help prevent heart damage associated with doxorubicin, a commonly used cancer chemotherapy medication. The researchers also discovered that CDK7 inhibition enhances the medication's cancer-killing capability.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology developed a computational method to link gene activity to molecular marks on DNA, potentially aiding in the detection of solid tumors and more accurate cancer diagnoses. This new approach utilizes machine learning tools to identify connections between genes and enhancers in the genome.
Researchers from Tel Aviv University discovered 400,000-year-old stone tools, Quina scrapers, used to butcher and process smaller game like fallow deer. The unique tools were made of non-local flint, likely sourced from the Mountains of Samaria, a calving area for the deer.
A new computational machine learning method, STew, enables the joint analysis of spatial variation and gene expression changes. This technology may help researchers learn more about the spatial biology behind many different diseases and lead to better treatment therapies.
A recent study has identified over 300 distinct types of bacteria in Roman Baths water, including those with antibiotic-producing capabilities. These microorganisms show promise as a potential source of novel natural products to combat antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at Texas A&M University developed vessel-chip technology to create a platform for preclinical drug discovery, reducing the need for animal testing. The system mimics human circulatory systems using tissue-engineered microfluidic devices.
A team of researchers developed an eye-tracking biomarker model that can differentiate children with autism from those with other neurodevelopmental disabilities. The model achieved high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for more accurate diagnoses.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered a new technique for tissue regeneration using mineral-based nanomaterials inspired by ancient medical practices. The approach aims to induce natural bone formation, reducing the need for invasive procedures and long-term medication, and promoting improved quality of life.
The Facility for Rare Isotope Beams' (FRIB) precision measurement program has verified the existence of a proton halo around aluminum-22. Researchers used a unique process to create and measure a high-energy beam of the isotope, achieving accurate mass measurements that confirm its rare properties.
Lynne McLandsborough's research offers a solution to the sticky sanitation issue in peanut butter and chocolate industries, improving food safety and reducing bacterial illness outbreaks. Her patent-pending method uses a water-in-oil emulsion to kill 99.9999% of Salmonella bacteria.
A new study from the University of Lausanne reveals that both high and low levels of the AFF3 protein can lead to severe intellectual deficits and developmental disorders. The research, led by Alexandre Reymond, identifies a critical role for the gene in development and highlights the importance of precise dosage.
Researchers captured a volcanic event on Io using the Large Binocular Telescope's SHARK-VIS instrument, achieving higher resolution than ever before with Earth-based observations. The images reveal surface details equivalent to taking a picture of a dime-sized object from 100 miles away.
During its flyby, the Lucy spacecraft discovered a trough and ridge structure on Dinkinesh, revealing a complex history of sudden breakups and transformation. The asteroid's internal strength and dynamic evolution were also revealed, suggesting that it has significant cohesion, unlike some other asteroids.
A new surgical platform using mass spectrometry identifies key gene mutations in brain cancer, including IDH mutations, during surgery. This allows for rapid diagnosis, prognosis, and tumor resection to improve patient outcomes.
A new study has identified two proteins that play a vital role in modulating cell responses in schizophrenia. The researchers found that these proteins can be targeted to develop drugs that address specific symptoms of the disease, potentially leading to more effective and personalized treatments.
Researchers from Mass General Cancer Center are set to present key findings on palliative care delivery via telehealth versus in-person for patients with advanced lung cancer. The presentations also cover advances in colorectal and breast cancer treatments, as well as results from a phase 1b/2 study on a novel BRAF inhibitor.
Researchers at The Jackson Laboratory have developed new laboratory-grade research mouse strains that better reflect human genetic variation. These wild-derived strains, detailed in PLoS Genetics, introduce millions of novel genetic variants and provide a powerful resource for modeling human traits and diseases.
Researchers at Lancaster University and Radboud University Nijmegen have discovered a novel pathway to modulate and amplify spin waves at the nanoscale, paving the way for dissipation-free quantum information technologies. The study's findings could lead to the development of fast and energy-efficient computing devices.
Researchers analyzed two ancient skulls and found cutmarks suggesting surgical interventions related to cancerous cells. The study provides new insights into the limitations of ancient Egyptian medical knowledge, highlighting their efforts to explore cancer treatments.