News on early, curiosity-driven science that opens new directions. Covers materials discovery, AI-guided research, pediatric research standards, and energy science.
A new fossil specimen discovered in California reveals that the first saber-like canines evolved in an early nimravid around 40 million years ago. This finding highlights the quick diversification of carnivorous mammals after the middle Eocene climatic optimum.
Research by the University of Exeter found high levels of antibiotic ciprofloxacin in UK wastewater, posing a significant risk to human health. The study suggests that antibiotic pollution from human waste can increase resistance to antibiotics, even in countries with well-established sanitation infrastructures.
A team of researchers has identified multiple candidate genes that influence longevity in mice, with subtle genetic variations leading to different health outcomes as we age. The discovery is significant, as it may lead to the development of effective treatments for human aging and diseases.
Researchers have isolated a novel bacterial species, HS-3, that displays complex multicellular behavior and a reversible two-phase life cycle. The discovery reveals a previously unknown mechanism for the emergence of multicellularity in bacteria, suggesting that environmental factors played a crucial role.
Scientists at the University of Bath have discovered a novel polyamine that destroys MRSA superbug Staphylococcus aureus by disrupting its cell membrane, rendering it susceptible to antibiotics. The compound is also effective against biofilm and has shown promise as a potential new treatment option for antibiotic-resistant infections.
A Virginia Tech graduate student has been awarded a two-year grant to explore a synthetic molecule as a basis for treating arrhythmias. The research aims to identify a combination of the molecule that could prevent arrhythmic incidents and potentially even sudden cardiac death.
Scientists at Duke University have engineered materials capable of producing tunable plasmonic properties while withstand extremely high temperatures. The new high-entropy carbides can achieve improved communications and thermal regulation in aerospace technologies, including satellites and hypersonic aircraft.
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a new antibiotic, Dynobactin, effective against resistant Gram-negative bacteria. The compound blocks bacterial membrane protein BamA, preventing its job and killing the bacteria. This finding offers a boost to antibiotics research and could lead to more effective drugs.
The Keck School of Medicine's Stevens INI has received a nearly $2 million grant to upgrade its storage system, increasing its capacity to handle vast amounts of brain imaging data. This will enable the lab to maximize scientific productivity and fulfill its promise to collaborate with researchers globally.
Researchers have identified a new antifungal antibiotic named solanimycin produced by a pathogenic potato bacterium. The compound shows efficacy against various fungi, including Candida albicans, and has potential for both agricultural and clinical applications.
Scientists explore the dynamics of soft materials like toothpaste and hair gel using X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS). The technique reveals microscopic dynamics and helps understand properties like viscosity and elasticity. Insights gained can aid in designing consumer products, nanotechnologies, and drug delivery systems.
A Phase I/II study found tofacitinib effective in improving skin and organ issues in systemic sclerosis patients. The drug was well-tolerated, with minimal impact on T-cells, suggesting potential repurposing for treatment.
Researchers have discovered two genes contributing to a paradoxical drug effect in Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus that causes deadly infections. The findings could lead to the development of new treatments and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers discovered that dormant bacterial spores can evaluate their environment without waking up, using stored electrochemical energy to determine favorable conditions. They found that spores release their energy to perform a computation about their surroundings, similar to how neurons operate in the brain.
MUSC researcher Joe Delaney, Ph.D., is awarded $453,000 to investigate aneuploidy in ovarian cancer. His project aims to target the cadmium response pathway and develop a new type of cancer drug for patients.
Cyanophycin synthetases, previously thought to require primers, have a hidden reaction centre that cleaves bonds between amino acids. This discovery reveals a 'Swiss army knife enzyme' capable of slow polymerization in the absence of primers.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that changes in extracellular RNA communication are associated with postpartum depression, potentially leading to the development of a blood test for risk prediction. The analysis also suggests that autophagy malfunction may contribute to PPD.
Researchers have advanced a novel platform to accelerate the harvesting process, solving a key problem in water collection by removing thermal barriers. The design features mushroom-like channels that direct water droplets into collectible containers, allowing for continuous water harvesting anywhere.
The researchers will conduct multimodal imaging of 100 human vagus nerves using high-resolution technologies, providing unprecedented data on the vagus nerve's organization. This work aims to improve the safety and effectiveness of existing vagus nerve therapies, offering potential for novel neuromodulation therapies.
Scientists have identified a protein that regulates cancer cell spread and normal tissue cell shedding, potentially leading to new treatments. The research suggests that metastasis is not an abnormal process limited to cancer but a normal process used by healthy cells.
Researchers identified a specific gut bacterium responsible for antibiotic-induced GVHD after stem cell transplants. A sugar supplement was found to improve gut health by distracting the bacteria from attacking mucin in the intestinal lining, reducing complications such as GVHD.
Scientists from NTU Singapore have discovered that telomeres are stacked in columns like a spring, leaving DNA exposed to damage. This finding could improve understanding of how humans age and develop cancer, with potential treatments for diseases caused by dysfunctional telomeres.
Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about the role of 'junk' DNA in neurological disorders such as Motor Neurone Disease and Alzheimer's. The research found that breaks in this type of DNA can lead to oxidative genomic damage, which can accelerate aging and disease progression.
A team of researchers from CERN, MIT, and Staffordshire University have developed a novel algorithm for reconstructing particles at the Large Hadron Collider. The project aims to improve particle reconstruction in high-occupancy imaging calorimeters, enabling more efficient discoveries after the HL-LHC upgrade.
Researchers developed a computational platform to identify metabolic vulnerabilities in ovarian cancer genes, suggesting opportunities for targeted therapies. The study found that certain genetic alterations can create vulnerabilities in cancer cell metabolism, which can be exploited to selectively kill cancer cells.
The Leducq Foundation has awarded $7.5 million to UVA researchers, led by Mete Civelek, to investigate sex differences in atherosclerosis and $8 million to Coleen McNamara to advance immunotherapy for cardiovascular disease. These projects aim to improve understanding of heart disease and develop new treatments.
A team of University of Missouri researchers is working to understand why solid-state lithium-ion batteries struggle with performance issues. They will use a specialized electron microscope and thin film polymer coatings to study the interface between the battery cathode and electrolyte, with the goal of developing an engineered interf...
Astronomers detect massive light burst from 'infant' Universe, revealing properties of cosmic explosions. The GRB was triggered by a space explosion that occurred when the Universe was less than 900 million years old.
Researchers at UVA Health System have made a groundbreaking discovery that could boost platelet production on demand to alleviate blood shortages. The finding offers hope for patients with thrombocytopenia and those receiving cord-blood transplants.
Researchers developed an AI-based screening method that models drug and target protein interactions using natural language processing techniques. The technique achieved high accuracy in identifying promising drug candidates, which can accelerate the exploration of new medicines and repurpose existing ones.
Long-term monitoring data reveals previously undetected diurnal patterns in narwhal behavior, including changes in surface activity and diving patterns influenced by sea ice and squid migration. The study's method can be applied to assess the challenges faced by narwhals and other Arctic animals due to climate change.
A University of Queensland study reveals low-income Brisbane suburbs have significantly fewer trees than middle- and higher-income areas, leaving residents vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The research highlights the need for increased investment in tree planting to address this environmental inequity.
Research from UVA Cancer Center finds that an unhealthy gut microbiome can trigger changes in normal breast tissue, facilitating cancer's spread to other parts of the body. The study suggests that targeting the gut-mast cell relationship could help prevent breast cancer recurrence and metastasis.
Researchers found that using the Bazett formula to assess heartbeat rhythms can lead to inaccurate chemotherapy modifications, potentially affecting patient care. Standardizing formulas with electrocardiograms can reduce this risk and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers have discovered a COVID-like virus in Russian bats that can infect human cells and is resistant to current vaccines. The new virus, named Khosta-2, poses a threat to global health and highlights the need for developing universal vaccines to protect against sarbecoviruses.
Researchers at UTHealth Houston will create a coordinating unit for biostatistics, informatics, and engagement to advance knowledge about human brain neurons. The project aims to produce an open-access digital brain cell reference atlas to improve understanding of neurological functions and disorders.
Researchers used the Advanced Photon Source to study asteroid fragments from Ryugu, finding they were made of water and carbon dioxide ice. The analysis suggests the asteroid formed over 4 billion years ago in the outer solar system, with a hydrated interior and dryer surface.
A multi-institution team led by IU chemist Sara Skrabalak has been awarded $1.8 million to establish a research center focused on rapidly identifying and leveraging the unique properties of nanocrystals. The Center for Single-Entity Nanochemistry and Nanocrystal Design aims to transform how researchers think about nanocrystal diversity...
Researchers at the University of Houston have discovered a way to activate the soleus muscle, which can sustain elevated oxidative metabolism and improve blood glucose regulation for hours. The 'soleus pushup' movement has been shown to increase oxygen consumption and reduce insulin requirements.
A joint study by the Israel Antiquities Authority, Tel Aviv University, and the Weizmann Institute of Science has revealed the world's earliest known evidence of opium use in the Late Bronze Age. Eight ceramic vessels containing opium residue were found in Canaanite graves at Tel Yehud.
Sooby's research aims to develop an AI algorithm to rapidly provide high-quality data during alloy fabrication, reducing time and cost. Her lab collaborates with Computer Science professor Amanda Fernandez to leverage deep learning approaches for image labeling, increasing efficiency by 99%.
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified eight new sweetener compounds in 11 citrus cultivars, providing a potential solution to reduce sugar content in processed foods while maintaining sweetness. This breakthrough could lead to the development of natural, non-caloric sweeteners for the food industry.
A team of international scientists found that many densely populated coastal cities worldwide are at risk from sea level rise due to land subsidence. The study used satellite images to estimate the rate of land sinking in 48 cities, with median speeds ranging from 16.2mm/year to 43mm/year.
Researchers discovered three new cryptozoic snake species in Ecuador's Andes, named after institutions supporting cloud forest conservation. The discovery highlights the need for habitat protection due to widespread destruction of native habitats.
Researchers have confirmed the existence of Pekeris waves, a type of atmospheric wave theorized in 1937 but never proven to occur naturally. The waves were detected following the 2022 Tonga volcanic eruption using state-of-the-art observational data and computer simulations.
Researchers discovered titanium's record-high superconductivity above 26K at high pressures, exceeding the previous record by 4K. The high-temperature superconductivity is attributed to electron correlations and phonon coupling, making it suitable for applications in diverse environments.
A new study has found associations between plasma miRNAs and cognitive function among cognitively normal men, including those with higher MMSE scores and slower rates of cognitive decline. These findings suggest that extracellular microRNAs may play a role in the early stages of cognitive decline.
Researchers from Rice University and partners identified three promising candidate materials using a new framework that cross-references information in a database of known materials with theoretical calculations. The method could help explore strongly correlated topological matter, a large and largely uninvestigated landscape.
Researchers discovered a telomere transfer reaction between immune cells that extends their lifespan and confers long-term protection. This 'anti-ageing' mechanism has potential clinical applications for diseases like cancer and dementia, and may enable people to live healthier and longer.
Scientists discover Opisthiamimus gregori, a new extinct species of lizard-like reptile that lived in Jurassic North America alongside dinosaurs. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of rhynchocephalians, an order that diverged from lizards over 230 million years ago.
A mutation in the TMEM163 zinc transporter gene has been definitively linked to hypomyelinating leukodystrophy, a rare and often fatal neurological disorder. The study's findings provide new insights into the role of zinc in normal brain development, injury, and disease.
Paleontologists at the University of Malaga have found that humans uniquely combine increased brain size with a juvenile cranial shape. The analysis of four new hominid fossils and modern great ape samples shows changes in cranial development, including a negative growth of the neurocranium and a positive growth of the splanchnocranium.
Researchers have discovered a cellular and molecular mechanism essential for intestinal epithelial regeneration. Progenitor cells modulate the production of mitogenic factors, controlling intestinal stem cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. This finding breaks new ground in research into counteracting radiotherapy side effects.
A study led by Singapore scientists found that Neisseria, a genus of bacteria once considered harmless, can cause infections in patients with bronchiectasis, asthma, and COPD. The research team identified a specific subgroup of Neisseria called N. subflava as the main culprit behind worsening disease outcomes.
A team of scientists discovered the earliest gibbon fossil, dating back to 7-8 million years ago, in southwestern China. The find enhances our understanding of the evolution of hylobatids and their close relationship to modern-day gibbons.
The Florida Summer Institute in Biostatistics and Data Science recruits students from underrepresented groups, providing a rigorous quantitative education. The program introduces college students to statistical methods and applications in biomedical research, highlighting health disparities and social drivers of health.
Researchers at UVA will study organelles in cancer cells to identify new pathways for understanding and fighting cancer. By focusing on the interactions between genes, proteins, and organelles within cells, they hope to develop fresh clues about therapies.
The Center for BrainHealth has launched three research projects to develop objective metrics of improved brain systems in response to interventions. These projects aim to determine the changes in the brain's physiology, structure, and function linked to gains in comprehensive psycho-social measurements over time.
Geisinger Health System is conducting a comprehensive study on the genetic causes of cerebral palsy, funded by a $3.3 million NIH grant. The research aims to identify individual genes and regions responsible for the condition, which affects 1 in 500 people worldwide.
A new study provides valuable insights into the roles of B cells and plasma cells in early-stage lung cancer biology, highlighting their influence on tumor development and treatment outcomes. The research also reveals environmental factors and molecular features that contribute to the landscape of infiltrating immune cells.