Brightsurf delivers daily science news discoveries, articles, and the latest scientific breakthroughs. Your trusted source for science news today, covering nature news, science & technology, and scientific discoveries from leading research institutions worldwide.
A clinical trial showed semaglutide improved liver scarring in patients with advanced fatty liver disease and early-stage cirrhosis. Non-invasive blood tests reflected treatment-related improvements more clearly than liver biopsies, which could reduce reliance on invasive procedures.
Researchers at UCLA have demonstrated a way to integrate terahertz functions onto a single chip using quantum well structures, paving the way for compact and scalable systems. This breakthrough could enable practical and widespread use of terahertz technology in applications such as ultrafast wireless communication, security screening,...
A new study suggests venture capital is playing a significant role in driving innovation in radiology, particularly in medical devices and artificial intelligence. The study found $11.4 billion was invested across 646 companies between 2000-2023, with funding peaking in 2021.
A new study has identified two naturally occurring microRNAs, microRNA-15a and microRNA-16, which can significantly reduce the growth and protein synthesis of non-small cell lung cancer cells. This finding suggests that these microRNAs could serve as targets for therapies designed to slow cancer progression.
A University of Houston professor is using artificial intelligence to connect roadway crash data, identifying pavement conditions associated with elevated crash risk. The study assesses pavement structure, surface condition, road geometry and crash records, helping transportation agencies select candidate pavement-safety projects.
The widespread implementation of driverless truck technology in the US could reduce transportation costs by 35%, resulting in significant increases in total interstate trade value. The impact would vary across states, with specific regions exhibiting higher percentage increases in exports.
Current federal rules based on plant age and leaf count are ineffective in predicting biological traits of American ginseng. Replacing these rules with size-based limits could better protect the wild population and simplify regulations for harvesters and forest farmers.
Researchers at Tufts University have developed thread-based integrated circuits that can bend, coil, stretch and conform to the body's contours. These devices could track biomarkers or environmental conditions, providing insights for fitness, healthcare and recovery from injury or disease.
Research on Southwest Florida cyanobacterial blooms shows that airborne cyanobacterial toxins contain the neurotoxin 2,4-DAB, which is linked to Alzheimer's disease and ALS. The study suggests chronic low-level exposure through breathing may be a significant risk factor for these diseases.
Researchers analyzed phone data from Marshall Fire evacuees, finding they chose destinations based on social connections and community resemblance. Those with stronger social networks were more likely to return home over time.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University mapped six major conformations of a membrane protein related to learning, memory and fear behavior. The findings provide a blueprint for designing new drugs to inhibit this channel in cases of stroke.
The Lancet Haematology Commission reports on global female health challenges, focusing on hematologic health across multiple stages of life. The report outlines recommendations for improving outcomes, particularly for women with under-recognized, underdiagnosed, and stigmatized heavy menstrual bleeding.
New research suggests dropping standardized testing requirements can expand access to underrepresented groups but worsen academic merit assessments, especially for nontraditional applicants. The study found that removing the test score requirement can have nuanced effects on diversity and merit outcomes.
A new atlas has been developed to map the potential of genes in predicting adverse drug reactions, utilizing a comprehensive analysis of genetic data from the Million Veteran Program. This genomic-led strategy aims to anticipate drug safety effects by identifying key genetic variants associated with adverse reactions.
The OU College of Medicine has received a $10.7 million NIH grant to study how cells sense their environment and respond to diseases that occur when this process malfunctions.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have demonstrated a new application for graphene nanoribbons, a material that can withstand extreme environments. The team integrated GNRs into semiconductor devices and exposed them to gamma radiation, showing that they can serve as radiation sensors for fusion reactors and in deep space.
A portable, airpod-size fluorescence analytical device has been designed to provide timely home molecular testing. The VPodDuo can measure fluorescent signals generated by various detection chemistry formats and detect quantities of genetic material from several pathogens and human cancer markers.
The HIV/AIDS response program in Brazil has lost momentum as the social movement becomes depoliticized, with activists focusing on basic issues like access to food and housing. The study suggests that technological advances and medicalization of policies have contributed to this trend.
Researchers developed an advanced generative model called ALADYNOULLI to uncover underlying disease processes and predict individual outcomes. The model reduced complex patient histories into 21 reproducible 'latent' disease signatures, which were highly similar across datasets and reproduced known disease processes.
Researchers used PET imaging to find significantly lower muscarinic acetylcholine M1 receptor availability in schizophrenia patients compared to healthy individuals. This study provides the first in vivo evidence of widespread M1 receptor deficits in schizophrenia, supporting the development of muscarinic-based therapies.
Astronomers have detected an atmosphere on a rocky planet, LHS 1140 b, in the habitable zone of its host star, which is consistent with conditions for liquid water and potentially life. The discovery was made using the WINERED spectrograph on the Magellan Clay telescope and reveals helium escaping from the upper atmosphere.
Researchers use AI models to design synthetic RNA-guided nucleases with novel properties, outperforming natural enzymes in multiple cell types. The study reveals new structures and interactions of AI-designed proteins, demonstrating their potential for genetic engineering applications.
A new study reveals two recurring dental designs in mammals, optimizing for either cutting or crushing performance. The tradeoff between these abilities has shaped the evolution of carnassial teeth, influencing dietary adaptability.
A study published in Science reveals that dendritic cells build and maintain structures called tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) within tumors, which serve as local command centers for the immune system. These hubs play a key role in antitumor immunity and may be a target for future therapies.
A team of astronomers has detected the first atmosphere on an Earth-like, rocky planet orbiting within the habitable zone of another star. The discovery provides evidence that worlds with conditions similar to Earth could exist beyond our solar system.
Scientists have successfully prepared and studied radium molecules precisely with lasers in tabletop experiments, marking a breakthrough in understanding the universe's matter-antimatter asymmetry. The new method can be applied to other atoms to create similarly chilled molecules.
Researchers will examine Protein S's role in pancreatic cancer and develop new therapeutic strategies. The study aims to improve understanding of the disease and reduce mortality rates.
A recent study found that patients perceive medical professionals as more credible when AI agrees with their diagnosis. However, disagreement can increase perceptions of medical uncertainty and doctor laziness. The researchers suggest strategies to communicate AI disagreement effectively and reduce patient mistrust.
A new Cornell study found that drinking water at meals can lead to consuming more food, rather than less. The researchers also discovered that adding spice to snacks can decrease eating volume, making it a potentially effective strategy for reducing energy intake.
A new study by University of Florida Assistant Professor Jason Dittmann reveals that the rocky exoplanet LHS 1140b may have its own atmosphere. The planet's age and atmospheric composition suggest a steady-state atmosphere with water, which could persist over time.
Researchers found that tissue-resident macrophages, responsible for clearing senescent cells, become dysfunctional with age, leading to chronic inflammation and organ damage. Blocking a specific receptor on these cells preserved youthfulness of multiple organs in mice.
Three Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers have been elevated to IEEE senior membership for their outstanding work on energy infrastructure. Shamim Hasan, Mohammad Khalid, and Deepika Patel were recognized for their research in electromagnetic transient modeling, power system protection, and microgrid controls.
Researchers discovered the brain's brief 'dual tracking' ability to process two conversations simultaneously, potentially explaining why some individuals excel in busy social situations. This finding may help improve hearing technologies and provide insight into why certain people struggle with multitasking.
A new study reconstructs the geographic origins and early-life movements of Africans liberated from slave ships on St. Helena, providing valuable insights into the transatlantic slave trade. The research found that these individuals originated from a wide geographic area, including modern-day Angola and Zimbabwe.
The rapid drying of the Aral Sea has released over 200 teragrams of carbon into the atmosphere, shifting the region's land-use carbon balance from a net sink to a significant source. Restoration efforts could help halt continued carbon loss and generate financial incentives for reflooding the lake.
A team of researchers, led by Sergey Stavisky, has developed an AI-based speech neuroprosthesis that can translate brain signals into speech with high fidelity. The device has enabled a man with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to generate fluent sentences and sustain full-time employment.
A study found that virtual-physical scenario simulation improves nursing students' learning immersion in home visit training, but the effects on skills need further investigation. The integrated simulation model increased students' emotional buy-in and learning experience, making the interaction feel more realistic.
A research team identified Crocin II, a natural compound derived from saffron, as a promising therapeutic candidate for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. By reducing ANGPTL8 protein levels, Crocin II alleviated liver fat accumulation and improved lipid profiles.
A new monkey species, Likweli, has been discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo's Lomami National Park. The species, a rare and cryptic Colobus monkey, was identified through physical traits, genetics, and vocalizations.
A study found that cancer care providers are more likely to be aware of the risks of cannabis use, but less comfortable discussing it with patients. In contrast, survivors feel more comfortable discussing cannabis with their care team and hold more positive attitudes towards its use.
The European Law Institute has approved its first comprehensive framework for dealing with digital assets and personal digital content after death. The rules provide a dual legal framework recognizing the need for protection, privacy, and dignity in digital inheritance.
A new analysis from the University of Illinois and the Illinois Soybean Association finds that Illinois corn and soybean farmers could lose up to $609 million per year if the state bans the weedkiller glyphosate. This would represent a 3.6% revenue loss, mainly due to the need for more expensive herbicide products.
A comprehensive review finds that climate change affects waterborne diseases differently across bacteria, viruses, and parasites, highlighting the need for tailored public health approaches. The study recommends 'no-regrets' investments to reduce risk and promote community resilience.
A new editorial highlights the need for public health leadership to build trustworthy AI in health. The authors argue that public health expertise is essential to ensure AI systems are equitable, transparent and effective across diverse populations.
Ester Sztein, GSA's Director of International Programs, receives the AGI Award for her work in expanding access to geoscience education and fostering international collaboration. The award recognizes Sztein's commitment to increasing public awareness of the critical role geoscientists play in addressing societal challenges.
Researchers identified a distinct biological subtype of obesity that responds well to GLP-1-based medications like tirzepatide. Patients in this group lost an average of 21.5% of their body weight after six months of treatment.
Researchers successfully demonstrated the Talbot effect in diatom-inspired three-dimensional structures in the terahertz range. The fabricated structures replicate the native architecture of diatom frustules and reveal distinct optical roles for each layer.
Lehigh University has joined an international research consortium to advance commercial space research and innovation, with a focus on low-Earth orbit technology and microgravity science applications. The partnership aims to develop foundational technologies for future commercial platforms, including the Starlab space station.
A new study reveals that freshwater exported from the Black Sea into the Aegean Sea during the Early Holocene triggered major environmental changes across the Eastern Mediterranean. The findings challenge previous views on the formation of Sapropel 1, a widespread organic-rich sediment layer deposited during this period.
Researchers at the German Cancer Research Center found that overweight individuals are associated with more than 10% of all cancer cases, nearly twice the previous estimate. The analysis considered accurate measures of body fat and methodological biases to reach this conclusion.
Research led by the University of Surrey found that hospitals with high EU nurse reliance before Brexit experienced the greatest decline in patient outcomes afterwards. This was due to lower hiring standards when skilled workers became harder to attract.
A new carborane-based material has been developed to improve the efficiency of perovskite solar cells. The material offers several advantages, including lower energy requirements for deposition and reduced losses at the interface between the C60 layer and the perovskite absorber.
The COSPAR 2026 press tour offers a unique opportunity for accredited media to explore the historic Villa Galileo and INAF Arcetri Astrophysical Observatory. The event is free of charge but has limited participation, with full details and schedules sent to registered participants.
Researchers have discovered that TSPAN7, linked to intellectual disability and cancer progression, senses membrane curvature and polymerizes into a helical assembly. This 'transmembrane skeleton' resists mechanical deformation and provides structural reinforcement to tubular membranes, distinct from the classical cytoskeleton.
A structure-guided peptide vaccine targeting PCSK9 induced durable anti-PCSK9 antibody responses in mice, guinea pigs, and rhesus macaques. The vaccine reduced hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis in animal models. Further optimization is required for potential human application.
A study by the University of Konstanz found that politicians' views on climate change are more polarized than those of their constituents, particularly on the political fringes. This disparity makes it challenging for elected representatives to accurately represent the interests of their constituents and implement effective climate pol...
Researchers measured high-energy gamma-ray emissions from unstable curium nuclei produced in fission, providing insights into pygmy resonances and the fission process. The study's results enable reliable comparisons of gamma-ray emissions across isotopes, aiding nuclear theorists in improving models describing fission dynamics.
A vaccine targeting KRAS mutations was safe and stimulated durable immune responses in high-risk individuals. After a median follow-up of 16.5 months, none of the participants developed pancreatic cancer, and some precancerous lesions shrank or stopped growing.
Researchers found that sea anemones can selectively distinguish between beneficial and harmful bacteria thanks to 'nematosomes'. This ability is crucial for maintaining a stable microbiome. The study suggests that invertebrates may have sophisticated mechanisms for supporting beneficial microorganisms.
Northwestern University engineers created a drone called Phantom Twist that harnesses motion blur to blend into its surroundings. The drone spins up to 25 times per second, making it difficult for humans to see clearly, and can potentially monitor wildlife or inspect infrastructure with less disruption.