Phys.org news

Phys.org / A treasure trove of unseen stars beyond the 'Dragon Arc'

Looking halfway across the observable universe and expecting to see individual stars is considered a non-starter in astronomy, a bit like raising a pair of binoculars at the moon in hopes of making out individual grains of ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Astronomy & Space
Phys.org / Fourth global detection of protozoan parasite in pigs hints at wider scope of infection

The National Veterinary Research Institute in Poland reports the first molecular detection of Sarcocystis miescheriana in a condemned pig carcass in that country. The research confirms only the fourth known occurrence of ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Biology
Phys.org / Astronomers map globular clusters in the NGC 5018 galaxy group

Using the VLT Survey Telescope (VST), astronomers from Italy and Germany have observed a group of galaxies designated NGC 5018. Results of the observational campaign, published Dec. 23 on the pre-print server arXiv, yield ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Astronomy & Space
Phys.org / Scientists identify 11 genes affected by PFAS, shedding light on neurotoxicity

Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) earn their "forever chemical" moniker by persisting in water, soil and even the human brain. This unique ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in brain tissue ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Chemistry
Phys.org / Archaeological study challenges 'paleo' diet narrative of ancient hunter–gatherers

A new archaeological study, conducted along the Jordan River banks south of northern Israel's Hula Valley, offers a fresh perspective on the dietary habits of early humans, challenging conventional wisdom about prehistoric ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Other Sciences
Phys.org / How a single nitrogen atom could transform the future of drug discovery

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have developed a breakthrough method of adding a single nitrogen atom to molecules, unlocking new possibilities in drug research and development. Now published in the journal Science, ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Chemistry
Phys.org / Lead pollution likely caused widespread IQ declines in ancient Rome

Lead exposure is responsible for a range of human health impacts, with even relatively low levels impacting the cognitive development of children. DRI scientists have previously used atmospheric pollution records preserved ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Other Sciences
Phys.org / New quantum sensing technology reveals sub-atomic signals

Since the 1950s, scientists have used radio waves to uncover the molecular "fingerprints" of unknown materials, aiding in tasks as varied as scanning the human body with MRI machines and detecting explosives at airports.

Jan 6, 2025 in Nanotechnology
Phys.org / Frozen forest discovery hints at future alpine ecosystem changes

Montana State University scientists say the frozen remnants of an ancient forest discovered 600 feet above the modern tree line on the Beartooth Plateau may portend possible changes for the alpine ecosystem if the climate ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Earth
Phys.org / Advanced method produces highly realistic simulations of fluid dynamics

Computer scientists at the University of California San Diego have developed a method for generating highly realistic computer-generated images of fluid dynamics in elements such as smoke.

Jan 6, 2025 in Physics
Phys.org / Microplastics are widespread in seafood that people eat, study suggests

The tiny particles that are shed from clothing, packaging and other plastic products are winding up in the fish that people eat, according to a new study from Portland State researchers, highlighting a need for technologies ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Biology
Phys.org / Antarctic ice melt may fuel eruptions of hidden volcanoes

A slow climate feedback loop may be bubbling beneath Antarctica's vast ice sheet. The continent, divided east to west by the Transantarctic Mountains, includes volcanic giants such as Mount Erebus and its iconic lava lake. ...

Jan 6, 2025 in Earth