A stunning discovery in North Greenland has reclassified strange squid-like fossils, revealing that nectocaridids were not early cephalopods but ancestors of arrow worms. Preserved nervous systems and unique anatomical features provided the breakthrough, showing these creatures once ruled as stealthy predators of the Cambrian seas. With complex eyes, streamlined bodies, and evidence of prey in …

500-million-year-old “squid” were actually ferocious worms Read More »

Painkillers we often trust — ibuprofen and acetaminophen — may be quietly accelerating one of the world’s greatest health crises: antibiotic resistance. Researchers discovered that these drugs not only fuel bacterial resistance on their own but make it far worse when combined with antibiotics. The findings are especially troubling for aged care settings, where residents …

Common painkillers like Advil and Tylenol supercharge antibiotic resistance Read More »

Scientists have identified compounds that block bitter taste receptors activated by saccharin and acesulfame K. The most promising is (R)-(-)-carvone, which reduces bitterness without the cooling side effect of menthol, potentially making sugar-free products much more palatable. ​Scientists have identified compounds that block bitter taste receptors activated by saccharin and acesulfame K. The most promising …

Artificial sweeteners could soon taste just like sugar Read More »

A large study of nearly 16,000 adults found no link between eating animal protein and higher death risk. Surprisingly, higher animal protein intake was associated with lower cancer mortality, supporting its role in a balanced, health-promoting diet. ​A large study of nearly 16,000 adults found no link between eating animal protein and higher death risk. …

Eating meat may protect against cancer, landmark research shows Read More »

Physicists have built a novel superconducting platform that mimics hidden vortex states once thought unobservable. Their “backdoor” method overcomes experimental limits, letting them control quantum behavior on demand. The discovery could pave the way for powerful quantum simulators. ​Physicists have built a novel superconducting platform that mimics hidden vortex states once thought unobservable. Their “backdoor” …

Scientists crack a 60-year-old quantum mystery Read More »

Perseverance is exploring Mars’ sandy ripples, strange frozen waves that could reveal how wind still shapes the planet. Along the way it uncovered unusual helmet-shaped rocks, sparking new questions about Mars’ present and future. ​Perseverance is exploring Mars’ sandy ripples, strange frozen waves that could reveal how wind still shapes the planet. Along the way …

Strange ripples frozen in Mars’ sands could hold keys to human survival Read More »

UBC researchers revealed that gut bacteria can digest cellulose-based food thickeners, once thought indigestible, by using enzymes activated by natural dietary fibers. This discovery suggests these common additives may play a more active role in our nutrition than previously believed. ​UBC researchers revealed that gut bacteria can digest cellulose-based food thickeners, once thought indigestible, by …

A hidden sugar source in ketchup, salad dressing, and toothpaste Read More »