Phys.org news

Phys.org / New Guineans and Aboriginal Australians descend from two groups who arrived 60,000 years ago, research suggests

A collaboration between the University of Huddersfield's Archaeogenetics Research Group and the University of Southampton's Center for Maritime Archaeology, has clarified the first settlement of New Guinea and Australia by ...

Dec 25, 2025 in Other Sciences
Phys.org / Ultracold atoms observed climbing a quantum staircase

For the first time, scientists have observed the iconic Shapiro steps, a staircase-like quantum effect, in ultracold atoms.

Dec 25, 2025 in Physics
Phys.org / The gut bacteria that put the brakes on weight gain in mice

The gut microbiome is intimately linked to human health and weight. Differences in the gut microbiome—the bacteria and fungi in the gut—are associated with obesity and weight gain, raising the possibility that changing ...

Dec 25, 2025 in Biology
Dialog / How sustainability is driving innovation in functionalized graphene materials

Graphene is often described as a wonder material. It is strong, electrically conductive, thermally efficient, and remarkably versatile. Yet despite more than a decade of excitement, many graphene-based technologies still ...

Dec 25, 2025 in Nanotechnology
Phys.org / New image sensor breaks optical limits

Imaging technology has transformed how we observe the universe—from mapping distant galaxies with radio telescope arrays to unlocking microscopic details inside living cells. Yet despite decades of innovation, a fundamental ...

Dec 24, 2025 in Physics
Phys.org / Glowing urine and shining bark: Scientists discover the secret visual language of deer

During mating season, when male white-tailed deer want to get noticed by the opposite sex and warn off rivals, they rub their antlers against trees and scrape the forest floor. Then they pee on these patches. But there is ...

Dec 24, 2025 in Biology
Phys.org / Observations catch galaxy cluster in the process of merging

Astronomers have used the Keck Observatory's DEIMOS multi-object spectrograph to observe a nearby galaxy cluster designated RXC J0032.1+1808. As a result, they found that the cluster undergoes a major merging event. The finding ...

Dec 24, 2025 in Astronomy & Space
Phys.org / Scientists boost mitochondria to burn more calories

Researchers have developed experimental drugs that encourage the mitochondria in our cells to work a little harder and burn more calories. The findings could open the door to new treatments for obesity and improve metabolic ...

Dec 24, 2025 in Chemistry
Phys.org / Radio black hole trio lights up in rare galaxy merger

Astronomers have confirmed the first known triple system in which all three galaxies host actively feeding, radio-bright supermassive black holes.

Dec 24, 2025 in Astronomy & Space
Phys.org / Mechanism for twisted growth of plant organs discovered

From morning glories spiraling up fence posts to grape vines corkscrewing through arbors, twisted growth is a problem-solving tool found throughout the plant kingdom. Roots "do the twist" all the time, skewing hard right ...

Dec 24, 2025 in Biology
Phys.org / An AI-based blueprint for designing catalysts across materials

Hydrogen peroxide is widely used in everyday life, from disinfectants and medical sterilization to environmental cleanup and manufacturing. Despite its importance, most hydrogen peroxide is still produced using large-scale ...

Dec 24, 2025 in Chemistry
Phys.org / Africa's rarest carnivore: The story of the first Ethiopian wolf ever captured, nursed and returned to the wild

What's the value of one animal? When a wild animal is found badly injured, the most humane option is often euthanasia to prevent further suffering. That's what usually happens, and often for good reason. Even when the resources ...

Dec 24, 2025 in Biology