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Science News for April 18, 2025


Commonly prescribed medications for high blood pressure have unexpected side effects

Researchers at Penn's School of Dental Medicine and Perelman School of Medicine found that ACE inhibitors can inhibit the activity of ACE2, a critical cardioprotective enzyme. This discovery has implications for human patients prescribed these medications, who may benefit from additional ACE2 treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalHypertension Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Unlocking the genetic basis of adaptive evolution: study reveals complex chromosomal rearrangements in a stick insect

Researchers used phased genome assemblies to show complex chromosomal rearrangements are key drivers of repeated adaptive evolution in a stick insect. The study found that millions of DNA bases were flipped backwards and moved within chromosomes, independently in populations on different mountains.

SourceUtah State University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 18, 2025

Male athletes need higher BMI to define overweight or obesity

A new study identifies that the internationally recognized body mass index (BMI) cut-off points overestimate overweight and obesity in male athletes. The researchers propose new cut-off points of 28.2 kg/m² for overweight and 33.7 kg/m² for obesity, taking into account lower body fat percentages typical of athletes.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·JournalNutrition·DateApr 18, 2025

Monell Center study identifies GLP-1 therapies as a possible treatment for rare genetic disorder Bardet-Biedl syndrome

A Monell Center study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists can effectively manage metabolic complications associated with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterized by early-onset obesity and cognitive impairments. The therapy significantly reduced food intake, caused weight loss, improved glucose tolerance, and normali...

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Low-income patients with diabetes are more likely to experience insurance instability

A study of over 300,000 adults found that those with diabetes are 25% more likely to lose their health insurance. Insurance instability is particularly concerning for those with complex needs, as many struggle to regain coverage after losing Medicaid or private insurance.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·TypeNews article·DateApr 18, 2025

Turning down starlight to spot new exoplanets

Researchers develop a new coronagraph that can detect exoplanets obscured by light from their parent stars, providing insights into the possibility of life beyond Earth. The device uses spatial mode sorters to isolate and eliminate starlight, capturing images of exoplanets with unprecedented sensitivity.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateApr 18, 2025

NPS Applied Math Professor Wei Kang named 2025 SIAM Fellow

Wei Kang, a Naval Postgraduate School professor in Applied Mathematics, was honored as a 2025 SIAM Fellow for his contributions to dynamic systems and controls. He is recognized for his work on analyzing, controlling, and estimating nonlinear dynamical systems and their applications.

SourceNaval Postgraduate School·DateApr 18, 2025

VR/AR could help people manage everyday stressors

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are developing a VR/AR system to simulate stressful situations, allowing users to practice stress-relief strategies in a realistic environment. The system was tested on a group of participants, who found it helpful in gaining awareness and learning self-sufficiency skills.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateApr 18, 2025
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Research Spotlight: Using artificial intelligence to reveal the neural dynamics of human conversation

Researchers investigated how brains process language during real-life conversations, employing AI to analyze neural activity and linguistic features. They found that speaking and listening engage widespread networks of brain areas in the frontal and temporal lobes, with highly specific patterns changing depending on words and context.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateApr 18, 2025

How thoughts influence what the eyes see

Researchers found that the brain's visual system adapts in real-time to make sense of information, depending on current tasks. This challenges traditional views and opens new approaches for designing AI systems with adaptive capabilities.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2025

Could opioid laws help curb domestic violence? New USF research says yes

A new study led by the University of South Florida reveals a correlation between opioid misuse and domestic violence, with opioid control programs contributing to a 10% reduction in simple assaults. The effect was strongest in states with higher opioid prescription rates.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalHealth Economics·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 18, 2025
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Scientists probe the mystery of Titan’s missing deltas

Researchers found that only about 1.3% of Titan's large rivers have deltas, unlike Earth where nearly every similar-sized river has one. The absence of deltas may be due to rapid sea level changes or strong winds and tidal currents on Titan's coasts.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·DateApr 18, 2025

Soft brainstem implant delivers high-resolution hearing

Scientists at EPFL create a flexible auditory brainstem implant that closely conforms to the curved surface of the brainstem, enabling better tissue contact and reducing side effects. The device has been successfully demonstrated in macaques, showing promising results for high-resolution prosthetic hearing.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 18, 2025

Study highlights gaps in firearm suicide prevention among women

A new study published in JAMA Network Open highlights the need for tailored prevention strategies for at-risk women. The research found that less than one-third of women who died by firearm suicide had documented evidence of mental health treatment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 18, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Uncovering the structural and regulatory mechanisms underlying translation arrest

Two previously unknown ribosome-arresting peptides (RAPs), PepNL and NanCL, were identified in E. coli, inducing translation arrest through a unique mini-hairpin conformation in the exit tunnel of the ribosome. This discovery provides valuable insights into deciphering the hidden genetic codes within polypeptide sequences.

SourceOkayama University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025

Q&A: What makes an ‘accidental dictator’ in the workplace?

A leadership trap known as the 'accidental dictator' can be avoided by embracing circumscribed empowerment, shared vision, and long-term perspective. Leaders must empower their team members within defined boundaries, engage them in the process of creating a shared vision, and prioritize a long-term perspective to build effective teams.

SourcePenn State·JournalOrganizational Dynamics·DateApr 18, 2025

Focus on sanitation and clean water may improve control of endemic cholera

A new study models cholera transmission after interventions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlighting the importance of environmental reservoirs in maintaining endemic diseases. The research suggests that vaccination may have a smaller impact on preventing transmission compared to water, sanitation, and hygiene improvements.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 18, 2025
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Rise in claim denial rates for cancer-related advanced genetic testing

Researchers at Georgetown University found that claim denials for cancer-related advanced genetic testing increased between 2016 and 2021, despite a recent Medicare national coverage determination. The study analyzed nearly 30,000 claims filed by over 25,000 unique Medicare beneficiaries and suggests uncertainty remains around coverage...

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 18, 2025

AACR: MD Anderson’s John Weinstein elected Fellow of the AACR Academy

John N. Weinstein, MD, PhD, chair of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology at MD Anderson Cancer Center, has been elected Fellow of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Academy. He made significant contributions to advancing our knowledge of molecular profiles of cancer through multi-omic studies and data analysis.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateApr 18, 2025
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Colder temperatures increase gastroenteritis risk in Rohingya refugee camps

A new study by Hokkaido University found that colder temperatures significantly increase the risk of gastroenteritis among Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh's Kutupalong and Nayapara camps. The study reveals a link between temperature changes and gastroenteritis risk, with both extreme cold and heat contributing to higher numbers of cases.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 18, 2025

New study unveils volcanic history and clues to ancient life on Mars

A new study by Texas A&M University researchers has revealed insights into Mars' geological history and potential for ancient life. The team analyzed diverse volcanic rocks in the Jezero Crater, providing a window into the planet's distant past and signs of altered olivine.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 18, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Pangenome study unveils genetic diversity of wild and cultivated rice

A pangenome study has constructed an unprecedented map of wild and cultivated rice, decoding the genetic architecture and diversity of rice. The researchers found 3.87 billion base pairs of novel genetic sequences absent from the single acknowledged reference genome, as well as 69,531 genes spanning the pangenome.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2025

Patients support AI as radiologist backup in screening mammography

A survey of patients who underwent breast cancer screening mammograms found most support AI's role as a second reader, but concerns about data privacy and bias persisted. Demographic factors such as education and racial background played a significant role in shaping patient perceptions of AI.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology Imaging Cancer·DateApr 18, 2025

Acyclovir-induced nephrotoxicity: Protective potential of N-acetylcysteine

This study investigates the protective effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on acyclovir (ACV)-induced nephrotoxicity in adult Wistar rats. The results show that NAC supplementation significantly reduces kidney damage caused by ACV, restoring normal kidney function.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Exploratory Research in Pharmacology·DateApr 18, 2025

March research news from the Ecological Society of America

Research explores how climate change affects elk populations, alpine plant communities and bee microbiomes. For example, a study found that food availability, not just overall quality, impacts elk pregnancy rates, while another study showed limited changes in mountain plant species over nearly two decades.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateApr 18, 2025

Cognitively impaired older drivers are less likely to cause a crash when accompanied by a passenger

A recent study by researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that cognitively impaired older drivers are less likely to be involved in car-to-car crashes when accompanied by a passenger. The analysis revealed that second-party drivers were more likely to have been accompanied by a passenger than first-party drivers, regardless of...

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Safety Research·DateApr 18, 2025
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

A new approach to evaluating soil contamination: How oxidative potential improves plant risk evaluation

A novel approach uses oxidative potential to assess the impact of heavy metal-contaminated soils on plants, identifying key metabolic disruptions and biochemical changes. This method offers a faster and more reliable alternative to traditional methods, enabling quicker responses to soil pollution.

SourceNanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE·JournalEco-Environment & Health·DateApr 18, 2025
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 upregulates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway to mitigate hepatocyte ferroptosis in chronic liver injury

This study found that inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 reduces liver ferroptosis and fibrosis by upregulating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. COX-2 inhibition also restored antioxidant defenses in hepatocytes, reducing oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateApr 18, 2025

AERA announces winners of the 2025 Palmer O. Johnson Memorial Award

The American Educational Research Association (AERA) has announced the winners of the 2025 Palmer O. Johnson Memorial Award for their article on detecting and mitigating algorithmic bias in college student-success prediction. The authors' work highlights the need for equity in data-driven decision-making in higher education.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·DateApr 18, 2025
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Mapping minds: The neural fingerprint of team flow dynamics

Researchers developed an algorithm that decodes neural mechanisms of team flow by analyzing EEG data during collaborative gameplay. The study found that individuals with closely aligned brain signatures were more likely to achieve a shared state of deep concentration, leading to improved teamwork and performance.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025

People with medical debt five times more likely to not receive mental health care treatment

A new study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that people with medical debt are significantly less likely to receive mental health care treatment. The research found that nearly 34% of respondents with medical debt forwent mental health care in the following year, compared to just 6.3% without medical debt.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateApr 18, 2025

Study finds pinworm medication has potential to treat aggressive skin cancer

Researchers have discovered that pyrvinium pamoate, a common pinworm medication, can inhibit cancer cell growth and reverse neuroendocrine features in Merkel cell carcinoma. The medication also reduced tumor growth in mouse models of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025

Existing drug has potential for immune paralysis

Researchers from Radboud University Medical Center found that an existing drug can revive immune cells paralyzed by sepsis, a leading cause of death in ICUs. The study provides new perspectives for the treatment of sepsis and may lead to potential treatments for patients with immune paralysis.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Pushing boundaries: Detecting the anomalous Hall effect without magnetization in a new class of materials

Researchers detect anomalous Hall effect in collinear antiferromagnets with non-Fermi liquid behavior, revealing a 'virtual magnetic field' that boosts the phenomenon. The findings open up new possibilities for information technologies and require further experimental confirmation.

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025

Generative AI’s diagnostic capabilities comparable to non-specialist doctors

A recent meta-analysis found that generative AI's diagnostic accuracy is lower than that of specialist doctors, with an average accuracy of 52.1%. The study suggests that while generative AI has the potential to support non-specialist doctors in diagnostics, further research is needed to improve its capabilities.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 18, 2025
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Some patients may experience durable disease control even after discontinuing immune checkpoint inhibitors for side effects

A subset of patients with non-small cell lung cancer who discontinued immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy due to immune-related adverse events continued to experience long-term disease control. The median post-discontinuation progression-free survival was 12.7 months, and the median post-discontinuation overall survival was 43.7 months.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 18, 2025