News on early, curiosity-driven science that opens new directions. Covers materials discovery, AI-guided research, pediatric research standards, and energy science.
Researchers predict existence of split photons, a new phase of light that behaves like a coin with two distinct halves. The finding advances fundamental understanding of light and its behavior, challenging long-held beliefs.
A study led by LSU Health found how late-onset retinal degeneration develops and identified a surprising potential therapeutic, metformin. The research suggests that an enzyme called AMPK activates the protein CTRP5 to regulate fatty acid metabolism and energy stability.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine are studying breast cancer as a series of inflection points to identify potential intervention points and develop therapeutics for triple negative breast cancer. The goal is to create a large repository of organoids from tissue samples to study gene expression, epigenetic changes, and immune response.
A groundbreaking study confirms the timing of the Chicxulub asteroid impact, which occurred during the spring-summer growth phase, leading to the extinction of dinosaurs and 75% of life on Earth. The research team used multiple lines of evidence, including fossil pollen, index fossils, and radiometric dating, to pinpoint the exact time...
Scientists found that seven genes associated with bright-light vision are absent in burrowing snakes, demonstrating extensive vision gene loss over millions of years. This challenges the hypothesis that all modern snakes evolved from extreme burrowers, suggesting a different evolutionary path for these subterranean snakes.
A large earthquake off the coast of south-central Chile in 1737 may have caused a substantial tsunami that was absent from historical records. Researchers analyzed sediments and found evidence of widespread sandy layers, dating to the same time as the earthquake, similar to deposits made by tsunami waves in other areas.
Researchers have found that sharks acquire their microbiome through three methods: the mother passing on microbes to her offspring via egg case, social interactions with other sharks, and recruiting microbes from their environment. This study provides new insights into the development of animal microbiomes and their importance in under...
A study by University of New South Wales has found that one in five future thyroid cancers in Australia is attributable to current levels of overweight and obesity. The prevalence of obesity has doubled in the last two decades, with 75% of Australian men and 60% of women being overweight or obese.
Researchers have designed porous, carbon-based crystals that can stretch to more than twice their length, making them suitable for nanofiltration and pollutant removal. By adding 'soft joints' into the crystal's scaffold, they can be disrupted by specific chemicals, causing the crystal to expand and contract rapidly.
Researchers have identified a specific gene signature associated with severe COVID-19, enabling early detection of high-risk patients through non-invasive blood tests. The breakthrough could revolutionize patient triage and improve healthcare outcomes during future pandemics.
A new study reveals how design bias can affect medical data used in artificial intelligence tools and personalized healthcare. The research highlights the need for more inclusive recruitment strategies to ensure diverse patient populations are represented.
A special form of four-stranded DNA has been found to interact with the gene that causes Cockayne Syndrome when faulty. G-quadruplexes, which form knot-like structures in DNA, specifically bind to a protein called CSB, affecting its function and potentially leading to premature ageing.
A new study led by York University reveals that Western Honey Bees originated in Western Asia, with genetic data suggesting a strong connection to this region. The research highlights the importance of understanding the origin and evolution of these vital pollinators to inform their management and conservation.
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology and MIT have discovered a new adjuvant called SMNP, which combines saponin and TLR agonist to boost the protective power of vaccines. The study found that SMNP triggers a strong immune response in mice, promoting lymphatic drainage and activating multiple parts of the immune system.
Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology discovered a way to create a stable resonator using two parallel gold flakes in a salty aqueous solution. The structure can be manipulated and used as a chamber for investigating materials and their behavior, with potential applications in physics, biosensors, and nanorobotics.
Astronomers have discovered an ultra-short-period planet GJ 367 b, which orbits its star in just eight hours and has a radius of 72% that of Earth. The planet's mass is 55% of the Earth's, indicating it likely has an iron-rich core, similar to Mercury's interior.
Using Arecibo's observations of nearby galaxies, researchers have found that the relationship between a galaxy's mass and rotation speed is not as straightforward as previously thought. The study provides a constraint for future researchers to develop theories on how galaxies evolve.
Scientists at Virginia Tech have identified a critical modification in the protective molecular bag of the Lyme disease-causing bacterium, allowing it to move effectively and cause disease. The discovery, published in Nature Microbiology, reveals that the bacteria acquires this unique sugar modification from ticks.
Researchers at Duke University developed a holographic system that can image and analyze tens of thousands of cells per minute to spot signs of disease. The technique distinguished between healthy samples and cancerous or pre-cancerous cells with nearly 100% accuracy, using just four basic cellular physical parameters.
A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine showed that a fast-tracked stroke drug, 3K3A-APC, protected mice from injury to the brain's white matter, a leading cause of dementia. The drug may also be effective in slowing down progression of cognitive impairment.
Researchers at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences have developed a new method to enhance wound healing using 3D printing of platelet-rich plasma. The technique showed promising results in improving vascularisation and reducing fibrosis, leading to faster and more successful wound healing.
A research team from India identified a previously unknown species of kukri snake, Oligodon churahensis, found in the Churah Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The discovery was made possible by an Instagram photo shared by Virendar K. Bhardwaj, which caught the attention of a herpetologist and led to further investigation.
A recent study by NTU Singapore has found a strong link between increasing air pollution and the rise of lung adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer. The study also discovered that declining smoking rates are associated with lower incidence of lung squamous cell carcinoma.
A new marine reptile fossil from 130-million-year-old rocks in Colombia has revealed a unique dentition allowing it to eat large prey. The discovery clarifies the evolutionary tree of ichthyosaurs and tests new ideas on their evolution.
Researchers have discovered four distinct patterns of brain network disruption that reflect the underlying disease process in motor neuron disease (MND). These patterns are predictive of how the disease progresses and can be identified using electroencephalography (EEG), which may lead to more effective treatments.
Researchers have discovered that ulvan extracted from marine algae can prevent the infection of cells with the Corona virus. The study suggests that this cheap and accessible natural material may help solve the global spread of the pandemic in developing countries without access to vaccines.
A team of international researchers has developed a globally-applicable ethical code for ancient human DNA research, aiming to address social and cultural implications. The code proposes cooperation with stakeholders, minimal damage to human remains, and respect for indigenous communities' perspectives.
Researchers discovered that naked mole-rats rapidly decrease uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in brown adipose tissue to conserve energy in hypoxia. This mechanism may hold secrets for humans to survive and thrive in low-oxygen environments, particularly in relation to diseases like stroke and chronic pulmonary disorders.
Researchers at Durham University have developed a sugar-containing polymer coating that can repair damaged artificial joint implants by mimicking the way cartilage works to lubricate human joints. The coating uses water to create a slippery surface, protecting the surfaces from wear and tear.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that false information in both native and second languages equally contribute to the formation of false memories. The researchers used an online experiment with participants speaking Russian and English to assess the influence of misinformation and source misattribution on memory recall.
Astronomers have discovered an ultrahot Jupiter, TOI-2109b, with a record-breaking 16-hour orbit. The planet is estimated to be around 5 times the size of Jupiter and has a day side temperature of approximately 3,500 Kelvin.
A new 'image analysis pipeline' called TDAExplore gives scientists rapid insight into how cells are changed by disease, using a combination of microscopy, topology, and artificial intelligence. This approach can provide objective information on cell changes, such as the movement of proteins like actin, even with limited training data.
A UBCO study found that psychedelic microdosing significantly reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults. The study, which followed over 8,500 participants from 75 countries, suggests that microdosing can be a valuable tool for mental health treatment.
Scientists have discovered a 900-mile mantle pipeline stretching from the Gal ªgapos Hotspot to Central America, suggesting that hotspots are not fixed in place. This new finding transforms our understanding of geologic processes occurring beneath the Earth's surface.
The WVU-led Dolly Sods GPU cluster enables researchers to accelerate computational research in fields like drug development, interstellar phenomena, and biometrics. The cluster will facilitate the analysis of massive datasets and enable real-time processing of signals from satellites in space.
A novel gene therapy has shown sustained expression of clotting factor VIII, leading to a reduction or complete elimination of bleeding events in patients with hemophilia A. The trial demonstrated improved production of coagulation factor VIII over prolonged periods.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new approach to modify the surface of copper catalysts, improving the conversion of carbon dioxide into useful fuels. The technique involves coating the copper with thin films of ionomers, which steer the reaction towards generating carbon-rich products.
The discovery proposes replacing carbon-hydrogen bonds with nitrogen rings, enabling faster and more efficient production of drug candidates. This breakthrough could lead to rapid creation of potent and effective medication libraries.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University conducted a cross-adoption experiment with fruit bat pups to determine whether boldness is genetic or learned. The findings indicate that the pups behave like their adoptive mothers, not biological mothers, suggesting that boldness is an acquired trait passed on through mother's milk.
The new project aims to bridge the gap between complex rare category analysis and state-of-the-art techniques. It will focus on developing explainable methods for detecting defective silicon wafers and severe complications among diabetes patients.
Researchers discover that finger snaps produce the highest rotational accelerations observed in humans, even faster than professional baseball pitchers. The study explores the role of friction and finds a 'Goldilocks zone' necessary for optimal energy storage.
A URI researcher has published a series of articles in the journal Biological Invasions to address concerns about diversity, equity and inclusion. The study found that the editorial board was overwhelmingly American and white, with most papers published by Americans and Europeans.
Scientists are using peptide nucleic acids to study SARS-CoV-2 RNA pseudoknots, a crucial mechanism for viral replication and translation. Understanding this process could lead to new methods to disrupt it, potentially leading to more effective treatments.
Researchers identified areas of the infant visual cortex that already show strong preferences for faces, bodies, or scenes, similar to those in adults. This challenges the traditional view that these regions take years to develop, suggesting a more rapid emergence of specialized brain structures.
A study published by Sanford Burnham Prebys found unappreciated changes in brain cell types involving hundreds of thousands of never-before-seen RNAs in individuals with Down syndrome. This breakthrough provides new avenues for understanding both Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers used seabird prey data to inform fisheries management and assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the marine ecosystem. The study revealed a surge in anchovy populations and changes in rockfish recruitment, informing ecologists and fisheries managers.
Researchers at Lancaster University examine the use of AI in the food sector, highlighting the need for trusted data collaboration to reduce waste and increase sustainability. They also warn about potential ethical issues and unexpected consequences of new technology.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have discovered that naturally acquired immunity to malaria works differently than immunity following vaccination. The immune system uses natural killer cells to fight the parasite, which is more tailored to the disease than other typical infections.
Researchers found that specifying a shorter deadline increases response rates, while long deadlines allow people to procrastinate and forget. No deadline led to the most responses, suggesting that removing urgency leads to inaction.
A new study led by University of Minnesota Medical School researcher Xavier Revelo found that macrophages play a role in protecting the heart after injury. The research team discovered a large increase in cardiac macrophages early in response to a cardiac injury similar to high blood pressure.
A study by West Virginia University researcher Sunil Sharma found that rural COVID patients who end up in an intensive care unit are more likely to die within 30 days compared to their urban counterparts. The researchers also discovered that rural patients with COVID-linked ARDS have a higher mortality rate, even when controlling for d...
Researchers discovered inhibiting or genetically deleting the MTHFD2 enzyme reduced disease severity in various inflammatory disease models. This suggests that MTHFD2 function is important for immune cell regulation, particularly for T cell subsets involved in inflammation.
A new species, Brighstoneus simmondsi, with a distinctive bulbous nose has been identified by University of Portsmouth and Natural History Museum scientists. The discovery was made through meticulous analysis of Iguanodon bones found on the Isle of Wight, which revealed subtle differences indicating a new species.
A 13-year study tracked 21,000 young drivers and found that those who took part in a resilience program were 24% less likely to have any crashes and 42% less likely to crash at night. The program addressed common youth risks like alcohol and drugs, promoting a culture of safety.
Scientists discovered an important protective response in the heart that can prevent excessive scarring after a heart attack. The study found that this reactive response can limit cardiac fibrosis by preventing oxidant build-up in heart cells, potentially leading to new therapies to repair scarring damage.
Scientists at NTU Singapore develop a new electrochromic window material that can block up to 70% of infrared radiation while allowing 90% of visible light to pass through. The material is designed to be energy-efficient and durable, with improved performance compared to existing technologies.
A new Digital Solutions Hub will provide a gateway to interconnected toolkits and resources, integrating existing data sources on pollution, flooding, biodiversity, geology, carbon capture, and environmental health. The hub aims to improve decision-making by providing cross-sectional data for informed decisions in various sectors.
Paxlovid demonstrates significant efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 virus, reducing hospitalization and death risks in adult patients by up to 89%. The treatment's development involved cutting-edge X-ray technology from the Advanced Photon Source.
Researchers found that levels of chitinase 3-like-1 increase with age and co-morbid diseases, augmenting SARS-CoV-2 infection. A therapeutic antibody blocks the induction of the ACE2 receptor, potentially paving the way for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.
Researchers discovered a new biomarker, inactive AMPK (lo-P-AMPK), that may predict immune evasion in lung cancer. The finding could enable better personalized care for lung cancer patients by identifying those most likely to benefit from immunotherapies.