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Science News Archive 2025 - Page 394


Page 394 of 574

Single-beam optical trap-based surface-enhanced raman scattering optofluidic molecular fingerprint spectroscopy detection system

Researchers developed a surface-enhanced Raman scattering optofluidic molecular fingerprint spectroscopy detection system based on a single-beam optical trap. The system aggregates metal nanoparticles to enhance Raman signals, achieving controllable amplification of molecular fingerprints for highly sensitive detection.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateFeb 7, 2025

The impact of liver graft preservation method on longitudinal gut microbiome changes following liver transplant

A study found that two liver graft preservation methods differ in their effect on gut microbiota composition and function following liver transplantation. The NMP cohort showed enrichment of beneficial gut taxa, while the static cold storage cohort depleted such taxa. Notable differences were observed between the two preservation methods.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateFeb 7, 2025

DNA barcodes and citizen science images map spread of biocontrol agent for control of major invasive shrub

A CABI-led study uses publicly-shared DNA barcodes and citizen science images to detect the establishment of a biological control agent used to tackle Lantana camara. The research found two genetically distinguishable populations of Orphanostigma haemorrhoidalis, one in south-eastern USA and the other widespread in Neotropics.

SourceCABI·JournalCABI Agriculture and Bioscience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2025

From muscle to memory: new research uses clues from the body to understand signaling in the brain

Researchers discovered that a network of subcellular structures similar to those responsible for muscle contraction are also present in brain cells. These structures, called contact sites, play a crucial role in transmitting calcium signals that regulate neuronal signaling. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms ...

Decoding fat tissue

UD researchers found significant differences in gene expression in adipose tissue, a vital endocrine organ linked to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The study identified four genes related to metabolism, calcium handling, and inflammation that warrant further investigation.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPhysiological Genomics·DateFeb 7, 2025

Fungi’s hidden power: How fungal biomass holds carbon in soil across ecosystems for millennia

This study explores fungal biomass's role in stabilizing carbon in soils, showing a strong correlation between microbial biomass and reactive mineral-associated carbon. Fungal necromass interacts with nanoparticles to further stabilize the carbon after death, proposing a new conceptual model for hypha-mineral interactions.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2025

$20 million infusion for UT MBA programs

Mindy Hildebrand's $20 million gift will support a matching campaign to raise scholarship funds for incoming full-time MBA students, while enhancing leadership development opportunities across all five Texas McCombs MBA programs. The fund will also create personalized, targeted leadership experiences for students.

Halas awarded Benjamin Franklin Medal in Chemistry

Naomi Halas' work has pioneered new insights into how light and matter interact at the smallest scales, leading to discoveries in biomedical applications such as cancer therapy and water purification. Her research on plasmonic catalysts could dramatically reduce energy required for chemical reactions.

UCalgary researchers confirm best approach for stroke in medium-sized blood vessels

UCalgary researchers confirm that endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is not effective for patients with blockages in medium-sized blood vessels. The ESCAPE-MeVO clinical trial found no improvement in outcomes for these patients compared to standard care. EVT was previously shown to improve patient outcomes after large-vessel strokes.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 6, 2025

Study shows link between income inequality and health and education disparities may drive support for economic reform

New research highlights the connection between income inequality and health and education disparities, increasing support for economic reform. The study reveals that understanding these disparities can lead to a greater willingness to reduce inequality.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Researchers develop a device that replicates tumours to study the efficacy of immunotherapy treatments

The Micro Immune Response On chip (MIRO) replicates tumours and their environment, allowing researchers to study the efficacy of immunotherapy treatments. This technology has been tested with breast cancer samples and shows promise in understanding how the immune system interacts with tumours.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Ice streams move due to tiny ice quakes

Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered tiny ice quakes deep inside ice streams, explaining the discrepancy between simulations and satellite measurements. The findings impact sea-level rise estimates and may reveal fault planes in ice cores, providing a better understanding of ice stream deformation.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateFeb 6, 2025

Global “sisterhood” seeks to understand what makes a healthy vaginal microbiome

A global 'sisterhood' of citizen scientists sheds light on the complex vaginal microbiome, highlighting associations between microbial composition and clinical conditions like preterm birth and urinary tract infections. The study emphasizes the importance of considering whole complexity and continuity in vaginal microbiota composition ...

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 6, 2025

New agroforestry maps plot environmental, social, and economic benefits of trees

Researchers created a tool to target agroforestry where it provides the greatest environmental benefits while being economically viable, socially acceptable. The map identifies areas with high impacts on soil erosion, water quality, climate, and profitability for lands not suitable for other crops.

Food: Cracking the method for the ‘perfect’ boiled egg

A new method called periodic cooking optimally cooks both the yolk and white of a boiled egg, resulting in an evenly-cooked egg with higher nutritional content. The approach involves alternating the egg between boiling water and a cooler temperature, yielding soft yolks similar to sous vide eggs.

SourceSpringer·JournalCommunications Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Rethinking energy demand can foster sustainable development and reduce emissions from buildings and transport

A new study by IIASA scientists suggests that a mix of policy measures and behavioral changes can significantly reduce GHG emissions from energy use in buildings and transport. The strategies could reduce CO2 emissions from buildings by 51-85% and transport by 37-91% compared to current policies.

Air pollution impacts an aging society

A study by the University of Tokyo reveals that fine particulate pollution PM2.5 exacerbates pre-existing conditions in elderly populations, leading to higher hospitalization rates and premature mortality, with significant socioeconomic challenges for rural regions with limited medical resources.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2025

Building better biomaterials for cancer treatments

A Virginia Tech research team has made significant progress in understanding the role of physical properties in tuning the body's immune responses. By modifying biomaterials' size, shape, and stiffness, they aim to enhance immune cell behavior and stimulate antitumor immune responses.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 6, 2025

Unique quantum simulator opens door to new research

Physicists have built a new type of digital-analogue quantum simulator that can study physical processes with unprecedented precision and flexibility. The simulator combines both digital and analogue operating modes, enabling it to be applied to various problems in solid-state physics, astrophysics, and more.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 6, 2025