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Science News for April 2, 2025


A new path to understanding black holes

Physicists have discovered a new theoretical framework called supermazes that redefine the concept of black holes, providing a more universal picture of their microstructure. Supermazes are based on string theory and offer a detailed portrait of the microscopic structure of brane black holes.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of High Energy Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 2, 2025

Recover chaos for secure communications

A recent study overcomes challenges of turbulence in free-space optical links by using a multi-aperture system combined with a photonic chip. This allows for the recovery of chaotic signals even under harsh turbulence conditions. The technology mimics a smart eye to capture light from several angles and reconfigure it into a clear signal.

Multiple defects renovation and phase reconstruction of reduced-dimensional perovskites via in situ chlorination for efficient deep-blue (454 nm) light-emitting diodes

A new method using in situ chlorination post-treatment has been proposed to renovate both deep-state and shallow-state defects in quasi-2D perovskites, significantly enhancing their optoelectronic performance. The resulting deep-blue light-emitting diodes achieved an external quantum efficiency of 6.17%.

Study finds one in five US adults use multiple drugs, revealing new patterns in substance use

A recent US study found that nearly one in five adults have used multiple drugs in the past year, revealing new patterns in substance use. The study identified four distinct patterns of drug use among prescription, recreational, and illegal users, highlighting the need for tailored prevention and treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 2, 2025

New insights into catalytic processes could lead to more efficient fuel production

A groundbreaking study has shed new light on the dynamics of methanol within copper-loaded zeolites, offering promising insights into the development of more efficient and sustainable catalytic processes. The findings could pave the way for advancements in producing cleaner fuels and chemical transformations.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Runaway battery improves safety

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a simple and cost-effective method to test lithium-ion battery safety, enabling researchers to quickly screen battery effects on safety factors such as materials, design, storage conditions, and degradation. The innovative method uses miniaturized batteries that are intentionally un...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Microtubule mysteries revealed

Researchers used NSF-funded Frontera supercomputer to model microtubule tips, revealing new behavior and key differences in structures depending on GTP or GDP binding. This basic research could aid in understanding neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's as well as design cancer drugs.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 2, 2025

Children exposed to higher ozone levels early in life are more likely to develop asthma

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has found a possible link between higher ozone levels in early childhood and an increased risk of developing asthma. Children exposed to higher ozone levels in their first two years of life were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with asthma or wheezing at ages 4-6, but not at ages 8-9.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2025

Are lifetimes of big appliances really shrinking?

The study found that product lifetimes for large appliances in Norwegian households remained relatively consistent over the decades, except for washing machines and ovens. Washing machine lifetimes decreased by 45% due to increased laundry cycles, while oven lifetimes decreased by 39% likely due to renovation trends and changing kitche...

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 2, 2025

Pink skies

Scientists at ISTA create a new brain organoid model that incorporates microglia to study viral infections, such as Rubella, and test the effectiveness of ibuprofen. The results show that microglia play a crucial role in inflammatory reactions and that ibuprofen exerts its protective effects by inhibiting two inflammatory enzymes.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

New research shows that propaganda is on the rise in China

Researchers at the University of Oregon discovered that propaganda campaigns are increasingly used to control and constrain information in China, including natural disaster and public health reporting. On average, at least one front-page article in party newspapers is planted by the state, growing fourfold over a decade.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2025

Life work, not homework

A new report by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture recommends strengthening Tennessee's financial education requirement for high school students. The study suggests that increasing the instructional time devoted to personal finance in the curriculum and recommending full-credit courses would be beneficial. Additionall...

Researchers reveal key brain differences to explain why Ritalin helps improve focus in some more than others

Research suggests that individual differences in brain chemistry, particularly the balance of dopamine receptors, play a crucial role in determining who benefits from Ritalin. Study participants with higher D1-to-D2 receptor ratios performed better on memory tasks and showed improved cognitive performance when taking Ritalin.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 2, 2025

Novel genes linked to rare childhood diarrhea

Researchers at SickKids identified three new genes associated with rare childhood diarrhea, providing a diagnosis for 48% of cases. The study found that genetic testing and targeted treatments can improve the quality of life for children like Sophie, who was diagnosed with CODE at just two days old.

SourceThe Hospital for Sick Children·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 2, 2025

NYC speed cameras take six months to change driver behavior, effects vary by neighborhood, new study reveals

The study tracked over 1,800 cameras across school zones from 2019 to 2021 and found that most cameras achieve their safety purpose within six months. Effectiveness patterns vary geographically across the city, with some areas experiencing a significant reduction in speeding behaviors, while others show marginal impact.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalTransportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2025

Southern Ocean warming will mean a wetter West Coast

A Cornell University-led study predicts long-term increases in precipitation over East Asia and the Western U.S. as the Southern Ocean warms, regardless of climate mitigation efforts. The research suggests that accounting for cloud feedbacks in climate models can help explain uncertainties and improve predictions.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 2, 2025

An app can change how you see yourself at work

A study from the University of California, Riverside, found that a smartphone app can subtly reshape a person's self-image at work. The app, called MindTAPP, uses associative conditioning to pair users with positive affirmations, leading to more favorable views of their workplace abilities and a heightened sense of self-efficacy.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalComputers in Human Behavior Reports·DateApr 2, 2025

In pancreatic cancer, a race against time

Scientists have found a way to effectively 'intercept' pancreatic cancer by targeting the KRAS and FGFR2 genes. This approach slows tumor formation and reduces the number of 'early versions' of cancer in the pancreas. Researchers believe this therapy could be a game-changer for patients with a family history of pancreatic cancer.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 2, 2025

World’s smallest pacemaker is activated by light

Northwestern University engineers developed the world's smallest pacemaker that can be non-invasively injected into newborn babies' hearts with a syringe. The device, paired with a wearable wireless controller, stimulates pacing through light pulses, dissolving after use without surgical extraction.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Extended reality to help produce eco-friendlier food

Researchers explored how XR affects eating experiences, creating more attractive vegetarian food and improving satiety. The study used AR, VR, and MR to add pleasant fragrances and sensations, paving the way for more diverse and healthy food options.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalJournal on Multimodal User Interfaces·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 2, 2025

Experts challenge aspirin guidelines based on their undue reliance on a flawed trial

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University challenge the current aspirin guidelines based on a flawed trial, advocating for healthcare providers to make individual clinical judgments about prescribing aspirin. They stress that patients should consult their primary care provider to balance the benefits of clot prevention against bleed...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalClinical Trials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 2, 2025

ECNU Review of Education study explores how large language models can revolutionize teaching as personalized assistants

A study explores how large language models (LLMs) can transform teaching by generating customized educational materials, assessing student progress, and providing targeted feedback. LLMs excel at automating routine tasks, reducing teachers' workload and enabling them to focus on mentoring students.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 2, 2025

Exploring testosterone-men's health link

Low testosterone levels are linked to sexual dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, and increased risk of osteoporosis and metabolic disorders. Precision medicine offers hope in managing testosterone-related disorders through personalized treatment plans and biomarker-based diagnosis.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalUroPrecision·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 2, 2025

Gold battles cancer

A French research team has discovered that an organogold(III) complex accumulates selectively in the mitochondria of lung cancer cells, demonstrating its potential as an anticancer treatment. The complex's antitumor activity is attributed to its interactions with specific biological molecules, disrupting their function.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Alcohol makes male flies sexy

A study found that alcohol consumption boosts the production of sex pheromones in male fruit flies, increasing their attractiveness to females and mating success. This effect is mediated by three neural circuits that balance attraction and aversion to avoid intoxication.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

University of Barcelona team develops a new compound with therapeutic potential against Alzheimer’s disease

A new compound has been discovered that shows neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in two murine models of Alzheimer’s disease. The compound inhibits soluble epoxide hydrose (sEH), increasing levels of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids, which promote neuroprotection and reduce neuroinflammation.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

TB patients globally often incur "catastrophic costs" of up to $11,329 USD, despite many countries offering free treatment, with predominant drivers of cost being hospitalization and loss of income

Despite free treatment in many countries, TB patients incur catastrophic costs due to hospitalization and lost income. A systematic review found that these costs can be prohibitively high for individuals in low-, middle-, and high-income settings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateApr 2, 2025

Blood test may rule out future dementia risk

A new study published in Nature Medicine has investigated the potential of specific biomarkers to predict dementia risk up to ten years before diagnosis. The study found that low levels of certain biomarkers may rule out future dementia, but elevated levels alone are not reliable for identification.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2025

Existing international law can help secure peace and security in outer space, study shows

A recent study by Chris O'Meara from the University of Exeter Law School argues that existing laws can be used to limit when and how states may lawfully target satellites using ASAT technologies. This could help address pressing international concerns regarding space militarization and the fear of wars between states.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalLeiden Journal of International Law·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 2, 2025

Migrating flies vital for people and nature

The study found that almost 600 of the over 125,000 known fly species are likely to be migratory, highlighting their importance as pollinators, decomposers, and pest controllers. The review emphasizes the need for connected habitats to support flies along their epic journeys, as climate change and human impacts threaten many species.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiological Reviews·DateApr 2, 2025

Melodies of musical ‘starquakes’ shed new light on how our galaxy formed

Astronomers have discovered that stars in a specific region of our galaxy exhibit fluctuations in brightness, caused by 'starquakes'. These fluctuations can be translated into frequencies, providing clues about a star's age and properties. The study, led by Dr Claudia Reyes, offers new insights into how our galaxy formed.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 2, 2025

Miso made in space tastes nuttier, researchers find

Scientists successfully fermented miso on the International Space Station, discovering differences in bacterial communities and flavor profiles compared to Earth-made miso. The study's findings suggest that food fermentation can thrive in space, opening up new possibilities for astronaut well-being and performance.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Older adults experience similar or even less muscle damage than young adults after exercise

A recent study published in the Journal of Ageing and Physical Activity found that older adults exhibit similar or even less muscle damage than young adults after exercise. Muscle soreness was consistently lower in older adults, with reductions of around 34% at 48 hours and 62% at 72 hours compared to younger individuals.

SourceLancaster University·JournalJournal of Aging and Physical Activity·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 2, 2025

New antibiotic for multidrug resistant superbug

Researchers have identified a new class of antibiotic that targets Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium causing gonorrhoea. The novel substance uses a unique mechanism to activate a self-destruction program in gonococci, killing the bacteria without harming other microorganisms or human cells.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 2, 2025

Modelling the demography of agricultural transitions

A new study models the demography of agricultural transitions, finding that population dynamics played a crucial role in the adoption of farming. The researchers used an ecological model to analyze interactions between farmers and hunter-gatherers, highlighting the impact of factors such as group migration and cultural assimilation.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2025

Galaxies die earlier than expected

A recent discovery reveals that massive quiescent galaxies formed even earlier and more rapidly than previously thought. The study found a galaxy named RUBIES-UDS-QG-z7, which formed a stellar mass of over 10 billion solar masses within the first 600 million years after the Big Bang before ceasing star formation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeNews article·DateApr 2, 2025

Case and literature review on TERT

Tubular ectasia of rete testis (TERT) is a benign yet elusive condition linked to infertility. A 33-year-old patient with obstructive azoospermia was diagnosed with TERT after scrotal ultrasound and transrectal ultrasonography revealed extensive cystic changes in the rete testis area and patent vasa deferentia.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalUroPrecision·TypeCase study·DateApr 2, 2025

Insufficient sleep should not be a taboo in the workplace – new research provides tools for addressing sleep-related challenges in management

A study from the University of Vaasa examines the effects of insufficient sleep on work performance and presents practical methods for identifying and managing its impacts. Employees who suffer from fatigue should enhance their coping skills by scheduling tasks based on difficulty and slowing down their work pace.

First guideline on newborn screening for cystic fibrosis calls for changes in practice to improve outcomes

A new guideline recommends testing for all CF-causing gene variants, including those less common in people of color. Genetic sequencing can be used as an intermediate improvement strategy if not all variants are included in the panel. Early coordination between public health departments and specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalInternational Journal of Neonatal Screening·DateApr 2, 2025

Exploring sustainable energy solutions through hydrothermal carbonization of sewage sludge

A team of researchers has made significant strides in blending coal with sewage sludge-derived hydrochar to create a more environmentally friendly energy source. The study finds that hydrothermal carbonization can transform sewage sludge into a valuable component of coal-water slurry, offering a promising solution for waste management ...

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Study finds rates of breast and colorectal cancer screening nearly four-fold higher than lung cancer screening among those eligible

A new study by Mass General Brigham researchers reveals that many eligible patients who receive other preventative screenings are not getting screened for lung cancer. The study found that 65% of those eligible received breast and colorectal cancer screening, a nearly 4-fold higher rate than lung cancer screening.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2025

Exploring AI’s role in decarbonizing the chemical industry: A multi-scale perspective

The study explores AI-driven innovations across multiple scales, from material design to industrial park optimization, highlighting its potential for simplifying complex chemical processes. However, data reliability remains a major challenge, and full-scale industrial implementation faces technical, economic, social, and ethical hurdles.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalTechnology Review for Carbon Neutrality·DateApr 2, 2025

Supporting the roads that support us

Texas A&M researchers conducted a forensic investigation of a collapsed embankment slope in Houston, revealing that clayey soils are highly problematic after 10-15 years of use. They recommend using stabilizing agents and perforated pipes to drain water quickly to prevent similar failures.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalTransportation Geotechnics·TypeCase study·DateApr 2, 2025

When it comes to obesity-related cancers, where you shop for food matters

Researchers found that people's activity patterns and visit frequency at healthy food sources are stronger predictors of obesity-related cancer risk than location-based approaches. The study used GPS data and obesity-related cancer mortality data to analyze the relationship between food shopping habits and health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2025

The heart remembers: Scientists describe how early-life cardiac injury in parents influences the development and function of the heart in the next generation

Scientists have discovered that early-life cardiac injury in parents can alter heart development and function in offspring, leading to improved cardiac remodeling and increased blood ejection volume. This finding suggests a potential long-term impact on cardiovascular health.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCirculation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Early detection of lithium battery leakage using a highly sensitive in situ ZIF-8 membrane-coated micro-nano optical fiber

Researchers propose a new sensor that can detect lithium battery leakage with high sensitivity, enabling early warning and protection for safety. The sensor uses a ZIF-8 membrane-coated micro-nano optical fiber to detect trace amounts of electrolyte vapor leakage.

How the brain evaluates rewards

Researchers used rhesus monkeys to study neural activity during decision-making processes, revealing that amygdala neurons process probability and magnitude of rewards independently. The study also showed that these cells dynamically integrate information about probability, magnitude, and risk to form the basis for decision-making.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Multi-resistance in bacteria predicted by AI model

A new study developed an AI model that can predict whether bacteria will become antibiotic-resistant by analyzing their genetic data. The model shows that antibiotic resistance is more easily transmitted between genetically similar bacteria and mainly occurs in wastewater treatment plants and inside the human body.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2025

Sensing sickness

Researchers found the UBeeO test can identify colonies resistant to several pests and pathogens that can decimate bee populations. The test mimics the pheromones emitted by sick or dying bees, allowing for a more selective and realistic assessment of hygienic behavior in honey bees.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalFrontiers in Bee Science·TypeCase study·DateApr 2, 2025

Being physically active, even just a couple of days a week, may be key to better health

New research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that even sporadic physical activity can have lasting health benefits, making it easier for people to prioritize their well-being amid busy schedules. The study found that completing 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week, regardles...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 2, 2025

A router for photons

Harvard researchers have created a photon router that could plug into quantum networks to create robust optical interfaces for noise-sensitive microwave quantum computers. The breakthrough enables control of microwave qubits with optical signals generated many miles away, bridging the energy gap between microwave and optical photons.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

High-fat diet promote breast cancer metastasis in animal models

Researchers discovered that a high-fat diet activates mechanisms facilitating breast cancer metastasis by promoting platelet activation and fibronectin expression, creating a fertile breeding ground for tumor cells to take root. This study provides new insights into the relationship between obesity and breast cancer spread.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Program takes aim at drinking, unsafe sex, and sexual assault on college campuses

A new prevention program has shown promise in reducing college students' problem drinking and their risks of unsafe sex and sexual victimization. The SPLASH program addressed students' misperceptions and taught practical skills to protect themselves and friends, resulting in high acceptance rates and improved perceptions.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025