Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 24, 2025


Biomimetic COF membrane enables precise lithium ion separation for sustainable extraction

Researchers developed a biomimetic COF membrane that selectively separates lithium ions from complex brines, achieving selectivity comparable to biological ion channels. The membrane's unique structure and design enable efficient single-step purification of lithium, making it a promising route for sustainable extraction.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2025

Aligning with international frontiers to advance pharmacoeconomics R&D in China

China has established itself as a frontrunner in pharmaceutical economics, supported by over 1,000 specialists advancing medical technology evaluations and regulatory innovations. Value-driven pricing models have catalyzed transformative progress, optimizing medication pricing frameworks and insurance coverage discussions.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalPharmacoeconomics and Policy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 24, 2025

Assessing the suitability of generative AI for literature retrieval

A study published in Pharmacoeconomics and Policy found that ChatGPT generated a list of article titles with a high rate of fictitious or misattributed content, underscoring the limitations of current AI algorithms. Researchers emphasize the importance of critically assessing and validating information produced by AI tools.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalPharmacoeconomics and Policy·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 24, 2025

Headway in Alzheimer’s disease care: new guidance provides recommendations for use of anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies

The Swiss Memory Clinics network has released new national guidelines on the use of anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies, such as Lecanemab and Donanemab, for treating Alzheimer's disease. The guidelines outline criteria for patient selection, biomarker confirmation, and infrastructure requirements to support safe treatment delivery.

SourceKarger Publishers·JournalNeurodegenerative Diseases·DateApr 24, 2025

A new framework for assessing climate risks for businesses

A new framework assesses climate risks for businesses, revealing the absence of systematic indicators and fragmented risk assessment methods. The study finds that improved corporate risk management can reduce climate-related economic volatility by 23-37%, while greater transparency in information disclosure lowers stock price volatility.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalRisk Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2025

HKUMed’s global collaborative study finds single-dose baloxavir reduces household influenza transmission

A landmark study found that a single oral dose of baloxavir marboxil significantly reduces influenza transmission within households. Conducted across 15 countries, the CENTERSTONE trial provides robust evidence for an antiviral treatment's potential to curb the spread of influenza.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

World Sleep Society recommendations on wearable sleep trackers aim to empower consumers and clinicians, and foster industry partnership

The World Sleep Society releases recommendations on wearable sleep trackers, providing clear guidelines for consumers, clinicians, researchers, and manufacturers. Key takeaways include choosing a device suitable for individual use cases and focusing on fundamental sleep measures rather than specific stages of sleep.

More power grid connectivity in western U.S. could supercharge clean energy

A new study models how Western US states can build out clean energy infrastructure between now and 2050 under different climate policy scenarios and levels of power sector coordination. States that coordinate more closely could save billions in energy system costs, even if their climate policies do not align.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 24, 2025

HKU physicists uncover hidden order in the quantum world through deconfined quantum critical points

Researchers have unveiled the secrets of deconfined quantum critical points (DQCPs), breaking away from conventional physics and offering a fresh perspective on quantum matter. The study reveals anomalous logarithmic behaviors and identifies a critical threshold value, suggesting DQCPs can resemble continuous phase transitions.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

A faster, cheaper way to restore stainless steel’s corrosion resistance

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a new approach to restore stainless steel's corrosion resistance using ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification. By equalizing chromium concentration in depleted regions, the treatment restored corrosion resistance without heat treatment. This breakthrough could lead to m...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalMetallurgical and Materials Transactions A·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

HKUMed develops world’s first AI model for thyroid cancer diagnosis, with over 90% accuracy and reduced consultation preparation time

The HKUMed AI model achieves over 90% accuracy in classifying both thyroid cancer stage and risk category. The model reduces pre-consultation preparation time for frontline clinicians by approximately 50%, making it a significant advancement in precision management of the disease.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

Repurposed diabetes drug can reduce pain for those with knee arthritis and overweight or obesity: study

A study published in JAMA found that metformin reduced knee arthritis pain over six months in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis and overweight or obesity. The treatment was shown to have a moderate effect on pain reduction, with the metformin group reporting a 31.3 point decrease compared to the placebo group.

SourceMonash University·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 24, 2025

Animal energy usage made visible through video

Researchers from OIST and Hebrew University developed a novel method to measure energy usage during movement using video and 3D-tracking via deep learning. This innovative approach expands the study of movement energy in ecology, physiology, and beyond, enabling the accurate measurement of energy consumption in smaller animal species.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 24, 2025

The effects of smoking, drinking and lack of exercise are felt by the age of 36, new research indicates

Research found that bad habits like smoking, heavy drinking, and lack of exercise can lead to declines in health as young as 36, with effects more pronounced over the long-term. The study tracked hundreds of people for 30 years and found that three unhealthy behaviors were linked to poorer mental and physical health.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAnnals of Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 24, 2025

Research reveals early warning signs for uterine health

A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine reveals that disruptions in cell communication can lead to disease progression in the uterus. Basal cells, typically found in healthy tissues, may be indicative of cancer or other diseases, highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

UMass Amherst tick researchers identify new strain of rickettsia bacteria that causes spotted fever infections in humans

Researchers at UMass Amherst's New England Center of Excellence in Vector-borne Diseases have identified a new strain of Rickettsia bacteria that causes spotted fever infections in humans. The discovery in Maine suggests rabbit ticks could be a zoonotic vector for serious infections, contradicting the usual dog tick vector.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalTicks and Tick-borne Diseases·DateApr 24, 2025

Medically tailored meals improve nutrition, reduce readmissions for heart failure patients

Patients with heart failure and malnutrition risk who received at least seven medically tailored meals per week experienced a significant reduction in malnutrition and sarcopenia risk. This intervention also kept hospital readmission rates below national averages, translating to better patient care and lower healthcare costs.

Illinois research shows benefits of prairie grass for sustainable aviation fuel

Switchgrass, a perennial species, has been found to produce great quantities of biomass and perform important ecosystem services. Studies from the University of Illinois have identified economic and environmental considerations that make switchgrass suitable for sustainable aviation fuel production.

Study of ‘spatial synchrony’ using long-term data exposes ecological trends and could boost conservation, farming

A new study from the University of Kansas reveals that studying spatial synchrony over a long enough timescale leads to better testing of ideas, improved statistical results, and new conceptual realms for understanding ecology. Long-term data can expose ecological trends and inform policy and management related to the environment.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEcology Letters·DateApr 24, 2025

Babies follow social cues despite trauma

Researchers found that babies from insecure backgrounds can still follow social cues, sparking hope for their development. The study used eye movement measurements and interviewed parents to assess a child's background and circumstances, concluding that some skills are intact despite trauma.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPsychological Science·TypeObservational study·DateApr 24, 2025

For colon cancer that no longer responds to treatment, a new drug combination offers hope

A Phase 3 clinical trial has shown that a combination of sotorasib and panitumumab significantly improves progression-free survival in patients with KRAS G12C metastatic colorectal cancer. The study found improved overall survival rates, with the high-dose sotorasib group experiencing a 30% prolongation compared to standard care.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 24, 2025

Can technology revolutionize health science? The promise of exposomics

Researchers outline key steps to harness exposomics for precision medicine and disease prevention, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and tools. The approach integrates advanced tools to understand how environmental, social, and psychological factors collectively interact with biology, creating the first complete picture of health de...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalScience·TypeNews article·DateApr 24, 2025

Nanophotonic platform boosts efficiency of nonlinear-optical quantum teleportation

Researchers have developed a nanophotonic platform that improves the efficiency of nonlinear-optical quantum teleportation by reducing light levels and operating with single photons. The technology transmits quantum information with 94% fidelity, outperforming theoretical limits of linear optical components.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 24, 2025

AI-powered analysis of stent healing

A new AI algorithm can automatically assess stent healing in OCT images, differentiating between healthy and unhealthy tissue with high accuracy. This technology has the potential to improve clinical decision-making and reduce healthcare costs by providing precise measurements and valuable insights for patient management.

Women left isolated and traumatized by military service

A new study reveals that Australian women veterans experience gendered disempowerment and abuse within military service and transition, with experts calling for more support systems. The study found a 107% higher suicide rate among ex-serving female ADF members compared to the general population.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateApr 24, 2025

Use of traditional Chinese medicine in Chinese patients with cancer receiving outpatient care: primary reasons and communication with oncologists

This study examines primary reasons for traditional Chinese medicine adoption among Chinese cancer patients and their communication with oncologists. Key findings highlight the importance of culturally sensitive care, patient education programs, and addressing misconceptions about TCM.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalFuture Integrative Medicine·DateApr 24, 2025

Adapting to the next level: new study offers survival guide for game developers amidst industry shake-ups

A recent study reveals that game developers who adapted quickly to new technology and had a mix of flexibility and expertise were best positioned to succeed. Smaller studios specializing in niche games often stayed loyal to a single console, prioritizing their fanbase over mass-market reach.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalStrategy Science·TypeObservational study·DateApr 24, 2025

Pennington Biomedical Research Center investigates tirzepatide's role in weight loss and metabolic health

Researchers at Pennington Biomedical Research Center investigated tirzepatide's effects on weight loss and metabolic health. The study found that tirzepatide decreased calorie intake and increased fat oxidation, leading to significant weight loss. However, the drug did not decrease the slowing down of metabolic rate usually observed wi...

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 24, 2025

Beyond the double helix: Alternative DNA conformations in ape genomes

A team of researchers has comprehensively predicted the location of non-B DNA structures in great apes using newly available telomere-to-telomere genomes. The study suggests that non-B DNA is enriched in these segments and may play a role in genetic diseases and cancer, with potential new functions discovered.

SourcePenn State·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

Monkey database reveals shift towards open science

A large-scale database of macaque behavior is driving a shift towards open science, bringing together researchers from across the globe to share data on social lives of over 3,000 individual monkeys. The platform has grown into a collaborative effort promoting culture of sharing within the research community.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateApr 24, 2025

Filipino scientists develop low-cost liquid lenses

Researchers at Ateneo de Manila University create hydrophobic surfaces using electrospun polymer fibers to hold water droplets in a dome shape, allowing for dynamic adjustment of magnifying power. This discovery has potential practical applications in science classrooms, remote areas, and research labs.

SourceAteneo de Manila University·JournalResults in Optics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

The potential oncogenic role of serum-derived hsa_circ_101555 as a non-invasive diagnostic/prognostic marker in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

The study found that serum-derived hsa_circ_101555 showed excellent diagnostic accuracy in differentiating HCC patients from healthy controls. It also demonstrated a prognostic role in predicting tumor progression and response to therapy, with significant correlations with markers of liver inflammation and tumor features.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalGene Expression·DateApr 24, 2025

Could seismic signals from earthquakes mask the signals of an underground explosion?

Advanced signal detectors have a low success rate detecting underground nuclear tests when seismic signals from nearby earthquakes overlap. Researchers found that even sophisticated multi-channel correlation detectors can only identify explosions with a 37% success rate, contrasting with a 97% success rate without earthquake interference.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

Stephen S. Morse named as next Editor-in-Chief of Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness Journal

Stephen S. Morse has been appointed as the new Editor-in-Chief of Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness Journal, with a focus on building knowledge on preventive measures. Dr. Morse will oversee the journal's content, ensuring it translates science into practice and integrates medical and public health perspectives.

New approach makes AI adaptable for computer vision in crop breeding

A new approach, called ESGAN, reduces the need for human-annotated data by one-to-two orders of magnitude in machine-learning models for crop breeding. The tool can differentiate between aerial images of flowering and nonflowering grasses with minimal external guidance, increasing the pace of agricultural field research.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 24, 2025

Study finds recent Haitian immigrants at increased risk for adverse pregnancy, post-partum outcomes

A new study found Haitian immigrant mothers who arrived in the US in 2021 or later experience high blood pressure during pregnancy and financial struggles after giving birth. This highlights serious health risks faced by recent Haitian immigrants, including hypertension and postpartum financial concerns.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·TypeSurvey·DateApr 24, 2025

Simple consultations in emergency room can help patients manage high blood pressure

A study from the University of Illinois Chicago found that simple consultations during emergency room visits can significantly lower blood pressures and improve hypertension management. The intervention, which included smartphone-paired blood pressure monitors, was particularly effective for patients from underrepresented backgrounds, ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateApr 24, 2025

Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) and gene therapy: a game-changing treatment backed by NEJM—Timing Is Everything

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that gene therapy can significantly reduce the risk of severe motor and cognitive impairment in children with metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD). The therapy, administered early, preserves motor function and cognitive abilities in most patients.

SourceFondazione Telethon·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 24, 2025

Development of next-generation exosome-based combination therapy for the treatment of the metabolically challenging disease mash

Researchers developed a next-generation exosome-based combination therapy to effectively treat metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). The therapy regulates metabolic abnormalities, inflammation, and fibrosis simultaneously by attaching FGF21 and miRNA-223 to the surface of exosomes.

Trawling-induced sediment resuspension reduces CO2 uptake

A study found that sediment resuspension triggered by trawling and natural processes releases significant amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere through pyrite oxidation. The research reveals that protecting sensitive seafloor areas with fine-grained sediments is crucial to maintain the region's carbon sink capacity.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

Air-Sea interaction modeling mystery solved, researchers report

A new study has discovered that increasing ocean resolution is key to accurately simulating AMO variability, particularly at multidecadal timescales. High-resolution ocean experiments correctly showed the AMO lasting 40-80 years, while low-resolution ocean experiments showed unrealistic cycles every 10-20 years.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

Female bonobos keep males in check—not with strength, but with solidarity

In a groundbreaking study, researchers found that female bonobos form coalitions to defeat males in conflicts, earning them high social status. The team analyzed 30 years of data from six wild bonobo communities and discovered that females' reproductive autonomy, hidden ovulation, and unexpected alliances contribute to their empowerment.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Animal Behavior·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2025

New bioactive compound for difficult-to-treat allergies

Researchers have discovered a promising bioactive compound that can effectively reduce symptoms of conditions like asthma and migraine by blocking a receptor on certain defense cells. The compound is effective in eliminating life-threatening allergic reactions in mice and has shown promise for treating inflammatory conditions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

What happens in the brain when your mind blanks

Mind blanking is a common experience characterized by lapses in attention, memory issues, and cessation of inner speech. Studies have shown that it's associated with specific neural signatures and changes in arousal levels, leading to malfunctions in key cognitive mechanisms like memory and language.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 24, 2025

New study finds link between green spaces and police violence

A novel research project found that greener areas have fewer fatal police shootings, particularly in socially and economically disadvantaged communities. The study suggests that higher levels of greenness can reduce violence through mechanisms such as reduced crime, improved mental health, and increased civic engagement.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2025

AI algorithm can help identify high-risk heart patients to quickly diagnose, expedite, and improve care

A new AI algorithm, Viz HCM, can quickly and specifically identify high-risk heart patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and provide individualized risk assessments. The algorithm's findings can help doctors prioritize the highest-risk patients for earlier appointments and treatment.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNEJM AI·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2025

Society for cardiovascular angiography & interventions scientific sessions 2025 features latest clinical innovations in cardiology care

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) meeting will highlight advances in interventional cardiology, including novel treatments and techniques. The conference features over 500 faculty, 700 posters, and 86 oral abstracts, with a focus on improving patient care and outcomes.

Cinnamon could affect drug metabolism in the body

A study published in Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences found that cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon activates receptors controlling medication clearance, raising concerns about potential interactions. Researchers recommend consulting a doctor before using cinnamon as a dietary supplement to avoid rapid clearance of prescription medicines.

SourceUniversity of Mississippi·JournalFood Chemistry·DateApr 24, 2025

Towards understanding tumors in 3D

Researchers mapped a lung tumor's cellular neighborhoods in 3D using single-cell spatial technologies, identifying 18 cell types and potential targets for personalized cancer therapy. The study reveals new insights into how tumor cells interact with their surroundings and how to reverse immune suppression mechanisms.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 24, 2025

Research progress in the application of high-entropy strategy to NASICON-type materials

Researchers analyzed NASICON-type high-entropy materials for enhanced electrochemical performance, focusing on lattice distortion, interface reconstruction, and ion transport kinetics. The study revealed the unique advantages of these materials in synergistically optimizing electrode-electrolyte interfaces and ion conductivity.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateApr 24, 2025

Higher wealth taxes equal less philanthropy

Higher wealth taxes significantly reduce charitable donations in Norway, according to new research from the University of Texas at Austin. The study finds that allowing larger income tax deductions can increase giving by 4.4%. This suggests a possible solution to soften the impact of wealth taxes on philanthropy.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Review of Economics and Statistics·DateApr 24, 2025

Rethinking stroke risk in patients with atherosclerotic carotid stenosis

A multicenter study found that radiologically unstable plaque, particularly intraplaque hemorrhage, significantly increases the risk of ischemic stroke and ocular symptoms in patients with symptomatic mild carotid stenosis. Surgical intervention, such as carotid endarterectomy, may be a protective factor for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Toyama·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·TypeObservational study·DateApr 24, 2025

A new way of visualizing blood pressure data can help doctors better manage patients with hypertension

A new study from the University of Missouri highlights how 'smoothed' graphs can help doctors better manage patients with hypertension. The findings suggest that these graphs can reduce errors in assessing blood pressure control, potentially alleviating pressure on the healthcare system.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

Wake-up call for dormant cancer

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science discovered that dormant breast cancer cells accumulate DNA mutations and experience widespread cellular damage, leading to dormancy. Increasing OVOL protein expression can halt cancer cell lifecycle and induce dormancy, but also enables them to reawaken more aggressively.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience Signaling·DateApr 24, 2025

‘System rife with blame’ could threaten parents’ mental health when their kids struggle with school attendance

Research found parents of children struggling with school attendance experience distress across all aspects of life, rating it as the second most threatening event. Supporting a child with school attendance difficulties imperils parental mental health and causes significant impact on daily mood and anxiety levels.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·TypeSurvey·DateApr 24, 2025

AI provides reliable answers with less computational overhead

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a method to specifically reduce uncertainty in AI responses by enriching general language models with additional data from relevant subject areas. The SIFT algorithm uses relationship vectors to identify closely related information, resulting in more reliable answers and reduced computational overhead.

SourceETH Zurich·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 24, 2025

No more copy-pasting: DNA base editing for better Lactobacillus strains

A Kobe University team developed a DNA base editing technology that enables precise control over microorganism genetic content without using template DNA from other organisms. They successfully applied this technique to industrially important Lactobacillus strains, creating safer probiotics for people with type 2 diabetes.

SourceKobe University·JournalApplied Microbiology and Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025