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Science News for April 30, 2025


Researchers may have found a way to mitigate or eliminate excessive scarring during wound healing

A study published in Nature Communications identifies fibromodulin as a protein that forms a complex with interleukin 1β to stop myofibroblasts from forming excessive scar tissue. This finding could lead to a new way to reduce or prevent excessive scarring, benefiting patients recovering from surgery, injuries, or burns.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Majoranas on the move

The Delft team creates a systematic and deterministic way to engineer Majorana bound states using artificial atoms, allowing for the observation of edge and bulk states. They demonstrate the ability to move Majoranas between QDs, crucial for topological quantum computing.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Factors influencing the severity of menstrual-related symptoms vary by exercise habits

The severity of menstrual-related symptoms such as dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome varies depending on exercise habits. Young women without regular exercise habits experience more symptoms influenced by menstruation days and perceived stress, whereas those with regular exercise habits have symptoms associated with body mass inde...

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMC Women s Health·DateApr 30, 2025

Cycling promotes health and longevity in older adults, especially nondrivers

A long-term follow-up study found that cycling among older adults improves health and life expectancy, particularly among nondrivers, who experience lower risks of long-term care requirements and mortality. Cycling contributes to maintaining physical and mental health, making it a vital lifestyle companion for this demographic.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalTransportation Research Part F Traffic Psychology and Behaviour·DateApr 30, 2025

ChatGPT vs students

A study by University of East Anglia compared 145 real student essays with 145 ChatGPT-generated ones, finding that AI essays were coherent but lacked engagement markers like questions and personal commentary. This reflects the limitations of AI in replicating human writing's conversational nuance.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalWritten Communication·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

No-touch vein harvesting has meaningful benefits for heart bypass patients

A new study found that no-touch vein harvesting significantly reduces the risk of graft failure up to three years after coronary artery bypass surgery compared to conventional harvesting. The technique also translates into meaningful clinical benefits for patients, such as lower rates of heart attacks and need for repeat revascularisat...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 30, 2025

Mom’s hypertension can affect preterm infant brain and neurodevelopment

A new study led by Cincinnati Children's reports that preterm infants born to women with preeclampsia or high blood pressure show signs of brain injury soon after birth and worse neurodevelopment at age 2. The study found decreased cognitive and language scores among preterm-born toddlers of mothers affected by high blood pressure.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

Suppressing HCC stemness - The SLC27A5 way

Researchers found that SLC27A5 downregulates PABPC1, reducing the utilization frequency of METTL14-dPAS and shifting to shorter 3'UTRs, leading to HCC stemness inhibition. This study suggests targeting SLC27A5-induced APA or METTL14-US as a novel therapeutic approach for impeding HCC progression.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateApr 30, 2025

Spurned CEOs may become activist shareholders

Researchers found that quasi-insider shareholder activism is surprisingly common and effective, targeting smaller companies with significant stock ownership. Former CEOs and founders with large stakes can wield considerable influence, but their motivations often appear more personal than ideological.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Review of Corporate Finance Studies·DateApr 30, 2025

VCU-led research highlights semaglutide’s potential for treating fatty liver disease

A VCU-led study suggests that semaglutide, a medication approved for weight loss and blood sugar control, may also reverse liver damage in patients with non-cirrhotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (MASH). Researchers found that nearly 90% of participants remained on the medication after 72 weeks without significant side effects.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 30, 2025

Study links childhood trauma to increased substance use and unexpected effects on heart rate and blood pressure in adolescents

A new study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry reveals that childhood trauma significantly increases the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, including harmful alcohol consumption, smoking, and illicit drug use. The research also found an unexpected connection between trauma and cardiovascular health, wit...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateApr 30, 2025

Ai-enabled cardiovascular screening shows promise in identifying heart dysfunction in women considering pregnancy

A study evaluated AI-ECG and AI-powered digital stethoscope tools for detecting early signs of heart dysfunction in women aged 18-49. The findings showed promising results, with a high negative predictive value and low risk of false positives, indicating potential for quick and cost-effective screening during primary care visits.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateApr 30, 2025

U.K. adults with face blindness reveal the daily challenges of the condition, with a third reporting being unable to reliably recognize immediate family members and 41% unable to recognize closest friends in out-of-context or unexpected encounters

A survey of U.K. adults with face blindness reveals the condition's impact on daily life, including difficulty recognizing family members and close friends. The study found that a third of participants struggle to recognize immediate family members, highlighting the condition's significant effects on relationships.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·DateApr 30, 2025

Green nickel for sustainable electrification

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials have developed a carbon-free method to extract nickel from low-grade ores in a single step, reducing CO2 emissions by 84% and increasing energy efficiency. The approach enables the use of low-grade nickel ores, which account for 60% of total nickel reserves.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateApr 30, 2025

In VR school, fish teach robots

Scientists used virtual reality to mimic schooling behavior in zebrafish, discovering a simple and robust control law that enables coordinated motion. This natural algorithm was then applied to swarms of robotic cars, drones, and boats, achieving performance comparable to state-of-the-art autonomous systems.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 30, 2025

New drug shows promise for treating bronchiectasis

A new global clinical trial has demonstrated the benefits of an investigational medication called brensocatib, a DPP-1 inhibitor, in improving bronchiectasis patients' quality of life. The study showed that nearly half of patients remained exacerbation-free one year later and experienced significant improvements in lung function.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 30, 2025

Every action counts: Global study shows countries can reverse increasing antibiotic resistance

A global study led by Stockholm Resilience Centre reveals that countries have the power to reduce antibiotic resistance through effective domestic interventions. The study found strong associations between country-level action and changes in antibiotic use and resistance, with a handful of countries leading the way.

SourceStockholm Resilience Centre·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

Breakthrough in quantum noise reduction

Researchers at Swansea University have made a groundbreaking discovery that reduces quantum noise by creating conditions where measurement becomes impossible. This breakthrough holds potential for applications in quantum experiments and sensitive measurements.

SourceSwansea University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2025

Building trust in artificial intelligence for healthcare: Lessons from clinical oncology

A new review advocates for building confidence in AI applications by implementing robust data governance frameworks, enhancing transparency, and involving stakeholders. The authors emphasize the importance of addressing ethical implications and ensuring equitable access to AI-driven innovations in clinical oncology.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAI in Precision Oncology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 30, 2025

‘Scratching’ more than the ocean’s surface to map global microplastic movement

Researchers have mapped global microplastic distribution patterns by size and polymer type, revealing that microplastics are deeply embedded in the ocean's structure. The study found that smaller microplastics spread more evenly and penetrate deeper, while larger ones concentrate near the surface, affecting key biogeochemical processes.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2025

Revolutionary algorithm optimizes nuclear reactor radiation shielding design

A research team from the University of South China has developed a novel algorithm to optimize radiation-shielding design in nuclear reactors. The algorithm, based on a reference-point-selection strategy, efficiently solves many-objective optimization problems and provides optimized shielding solutions for new types of reactors.

SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2025

New technology facilitates delivery of advanced medicines

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a technique to deliver gene editors and protein therapeutics to cells using engineered extracellular vesicles. The method shows promising results in animal studies, highlighting the potential for treating genetic diseases and neurological disorders.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Herpesvirus protein mimics host enzyme to balance infection and latency

Researchers discovered that herpesvirus protein kinases mimic human cyclin-dependent kinases, regulating viral infection and latency. Phosphorylation of the viral enzyme contributes to its survival and persistence, while phosphorylation downregulates its activity, allowing for balance between host survival and viral persistence.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

New method to produce an extremely heavy hydrogen isotope at the Mainz Microtron accelerator MAMI

Researchers at A1 Collaboration successfully produced hydrogen-6 in an electron scattering experiment, challenging current understanding of multi-nucleon interactions. The measurement revealed a stronger interaction between neutrons within the nucleus than expected, indicating a lower ground-state energy for ⁶H.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 30, 2025

Researchers find that increase of ‘CLU’ protein promotes brain resilience and could provide protection from Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers identified CLU protein as a potential strategy to protect against Alzheimer's disease by increasing clusterin protein. Increased CLU protects the brain from amyloid plaques and loss of synapses, while identifying individuals most likely to respond based on their genetics.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNeuron·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

New cell sorting strategy enhances stem cell purity for cultured meat production

Researchers developed a novel cell sorting strategy to isolate high-quality seed cells for cultured meat production, improving stem cell purity and myogenic potential. The method achieved over 90% PAX7-positive MuSCs, enhanced differentiation potential, and maintained higher PAX7 expression across multiple passages.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalFood Materials Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Mechanism by which the brain weighs positive vs. negative social experience is revealed

Researchers identified how the brain assigns positivity or negativity to social experiences through a complex neural circuitry involving the hippocampus. They discovered that serotonin and neurotensin release opposing signals in the ventral CA1 region, which can be leveraged for future therapies.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Persons living with HIV can be treated safely, effectively with long-acting antiretroviral therapy at home

A new study conducted by Medical University of South Carolina shows that long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapy for persons living with HIV can be administered safely and effectively at home. Patient satisfaction scores were high for both groups, and no serious safety issues were observed.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

Researchers discover a novel gene variant in Finns that increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease

A novel gene variant in Finns significantly increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease, affecting microglia function and leading to an earlier onset of the disease. The study provides valuable information for developing treatments and highlights the importance of translational research.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

Nicotine pouch and e-cigarette use and co-use among U.S. youths

A cross-sectional study finds a doubling in nicotine pouch past-30-day use and an increase in pouch plus e-cigarette dual use, leading to decreased exclusive e-cigarette use among US 10th and 12th graders. Prioritizing surveillance, regulation, and prevention strategies is crucial for addressing pediatric nicotine pouch use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 30, 2025

Ultrasound and microrobots team up to boost stem cell therapy for brain repair

A pioneering study combines magnetic guidance with localized ultrasound stimulation to enhance stem cell therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. The technique successfully navigates magnetically loaded stem cells to specific brain regions, promoting differentiation into neurons and boosting neurite outgrowth.

Increasing physical activity in middle age may protect against Alzheimer's disease

A recent study has found that increasing physical activity between the ages of 45 and 65 can help reduce the accumulation of beta-amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. The research, led by ISGlobal, suggests that even minimal amounts of exercise have health benefits for brain health.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalAlzheimer’s & Dementia·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

Artificial intelligence tools make education materials more patient friendly

A new study finds that AI tools can significantly improve the readability of online patient education materials, making them more accessible for patients. The researchers used three large language models to optimize the readability of materials without compromising accuracy, resulting in improved scores and reduced word counts.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2025

From structure to function: Tailoring wurtzite MgSiN₂ for next-generation electronics

Scientists at Institute of Science Tokyo develop first-ever wurtzite-structured MgSiN2 thin films, exhibiting piezoelectric properties. The material's unique electronic and bandgap properties make it a promising candidate for next-generation electronics and potential applications in ultrasonic transducers and energy harvesters.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Mud pies for some, barriers for others: National guidelines needed to make nature play work for every child

A new study reveals a gap in how nature playspaces are designed and delivered across Australia, with no clear evidence-based guidelines to support children of all ages and capabilities. Researchers call for national, research-backed recommendations to ensure consistency and quality across the country.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Outdoor and Environmental Education·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 30, 2025

Research collaboration charts global four-stage evolution of inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers from UCalgary and Chinese University of Hong Kong found that IBD progresses through four predictable epidemiological stages as it spreads globally. The study forecasts a major rise in IBD prevalence in Canada by 2045, with countries in North America, Europe, and Oceania reaching Stage 3 (compounding prevalence). Developing ...

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 30, 2025

From the front garden to the continent: Why biodiversity does not increase evenly from small to large

Researchers developed a universal theory to explain species distribution patterns, estimating species numbers at key transition points between phases. The three-phase pattern of Species-Area Relationships shows rapid increase in local areas, slowing down in regional areas, and accelerating on continental scales.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

Stronger and safer: New design strategy for aluminium combines strength with hydrogen embrittlement resistance

Researchers have developed a new alloy design strategy that combines exceptional strength with superior resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. The approach enables dual nanoprecipitates to trap hydrogen and enhance strength, resulting in a 40% increase in strength and a five-fold improvement in hydrogen embrittlement resistance.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Restoring oil wells back to nature with moss

Researchers from the University of Waterloo have developed a method to restore tens of thousands of oil and gas exploration sites in western Canada using native moss. The technique involves transplanting moss onto decommissioned well pads, effectively recreating peatlands and supporting ecosystem development.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalEcological Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Road traffic accidents leading cause of pet cat deaths in the UK, Bristol Cats study finds

New research by the University of Bristol and Cats Protection reveals that road traffic accidents are the leading cause of death in UK pet cats under 8 years old. The study found that younger cats are at higher risk of death due to RTAs, while older cats are more likely to die from disease-related causes.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025

Existing treatments may help fight symptoms of severe form of muscular dystrophy, new research suggests

Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery found that mesenchymal stromal cells produce cytokines stimulating resident macrophages to proliferate and accumulate, contributing to chronic inflammation. Existing therapies may help control muscle inflammation by suppressing macrophage infiltration and FAPs' CSF-1 production.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2025

So, our city’s shrinking—Now what?

A study analyzed per capita municipal expenditures and their correlation with population changes in small and medium-sized cities in Japan. The results revealed that prioritizing child welfare expenditures is a key strategy to sustain populations, while city planning expenditures on street maintenance and construction were also effective.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Urban Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 30, 2025