Science Daily

1. A tiny ancient virus reveals secrets that could help fight superbugs

   Scientists mapped the Bas63 bacteriophage in unprecedented detail, uncovering how its tail machinery infects bacteria. The structure reveals rare whisker-collar features and distant evolutionary ties reaching back billions of years. These insights could guide new phage therapies and innovations in medicine, agriculture, and industry.

2. Animals are developing the same chronic diseases as humans

   Across the planet, animals are increasingly suffering from chronic illnesses once seen only in humans. Cats, dogs, cows, and even marine life are facing rising rates of cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and obesity — diseases tied to the same factors affecting people: genetics, pollution, poor nutrition, and stress. A new study led by scientists at the Agricultural University of Athens proposes a unified model linking these conditions across species.

3. Melanoma rates are spiking fast in these 15 Pennsylvania counties

   Penn State scientists identified a striking rise in melanoma across several Pennsylvania counties dominated by cropland and herbicide use. The elevated risk persisted even after factoring in sunlight, suggesting an environmental influence beyond the usual expectations. Researchers warn that drifting chemicals may expose nearby residents, not just farm workers.

4. New research uncovers the massive squid diet of Hawaiian pilot whales

   Hawaiian short-finned pilot whales are surprisingly voracious hunters, diving hundreds of meters beneath the Pacific to snatch squid in the dark. By tagging and tracking eight whales, researchers uncovered just how much energy these deep-sea forays require—and how many squid the whales must eat to stay fueled. Their calculations reveal that each whale downs dozens to hundreds of squid per day, adding up to a staggering 88,000 tonnes of squid consumed annually by the whole population.

5. Scientists find a surprising link between lead and human evolution

   Researchers found that ancient hominids—including early humans—were exposed to lead throughout childhood, leaving chemical traces in fossil teeth. Experiments suggest this exposure may have driven genetic changes that strengthened language-related brain functions in modern humans.