Researchers from UNICAMP found that bromeliad water fertilizes the soil beneath branches, facilitating growth of plants with high nutritional demands. This process, known as remote plant interaction, occurs between physically distant organisms and enhances functional diversity in the system.
Researchers developed LightGen, an all-optical chip that performs advanced generative AI tasks with remarkable speed and efficiency. The chip hosts over two million photonic neurons, enabling complex tasks such as high-resolution image synthesis and video manipulation.
A new study found that gestational diabetes alters the placenta's molecular processes, disrupting gene expression and potentially leading to complications in newborns. The research identified a key protein, SRSF10, that may contribute to these disruptions, offering potential therapeutic targets for preventing pregnancy complications.
Researchers at Lund University have developed a compact and elegant way to stretch ultrafast laser pulses using a diffraction grating, allowing for precise control over pulse duration. This enables full characterization in a single shot, without the need for pre-compensation optical elements.
The CTAO's southern array will be the first gamma-ray observatory to be built in Chile, providing new insights into high-energy Universe events. Construction began on the telescope foundations at ESO's Paranal site in Chile's Atacama Desert.
A new study has found that the ocean's ability to absorb CO2 is stronger than previously assumed, with air bubbles playing a key role in this process. The research suggests that the ocean absorbed around 0.3-0.4 petagrams more carbon per year, about 15% more than previous estimates.
Scientists have synthesised a new class of materials called state-independent electrolytes that allow negatively charged ions to move freely in solid and liquid states. This discovery opens possibilities for safer, lightweight solid-state devices with potential applications in batteries, sensors, and electrochromic devices.
Flat-band ultrastrong coupling is observed experimentally and theoretically verified, revealing a previously unexplored regime of light-matter interaction with potential applications in polariton-driven chemistry and materials science. Hybrid surface plasmon-phonon polariton modes are generated, extending over a wide range of momenta.
A new study published in the ECNU Review of Education warns that digital inequality has not disappeared but has become more hidden. School leaders play a critical role in inequities, particularly in how technology is used and in the social context of its implementation.
A new database, CANDID, brings together over a century of historical epidemiological data from across Canada. The dataset reveals the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases in Canada's history, enabling better understanding of past outbreaks and preparation for emerging diseases.
Adults born with heart defects are at increased risk of cardiac complications as they age. The new guideline provides recommendations for monitoring, counseling, and treating Congenital Heart Disease (CHD), including mental health assessment and physical activity guidance. It also emphasizes the importance of access to ongoing speciali...
A major review in Frontiers in Science highlights how unsustainable food systems contribute to both health and climate crises. Experts examine evidence-based strategies to tackle industrial food systems promoting overconsumption and environmental pressures.
Researchers at TU Wien developed a 3D bioprinting technique to create living biological tissue for studying skin diseases. The method offers a controlled and highly reproducible manner to produce tailor-made structures for different purposes, such as psoriasis and inflammatory models.
Researchers reconstruct Milky Way's evolution from its earliest phases to present day, revealing a tumultuous youth and chaotic conditions. The study provides new insights into galaxy formation and growth, highlighting the need for refinement in theoretical predictions.
A review of anti-diabetic medications reveals complex mechanisms influencing cancer progression through cell proliferation, immune function, and inflammation. The findings highlight potential therapeutic strategies and underscore the need for further research into diabetes treatments and cancer outcomes.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have found that inhibiting GFER, a mitochondrial enzyme, in combination with immune checkpoint blockade improves antitumor response in preclinical models. This two-pronged approach holds promise for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Researchers at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf discovered new peptides with high affinity for rare earth elements, which could lead to sustainable recycling methods. The study also found that rare earth elements may have played a key role in the emergence of early life on Earth, moderating chemical reactions in prebiotic scenarios.
The team discovered a building complex with pillars and walls suggesting a church, but also features indicating a three-nave structure. Decorated pottery depicting a Maltese cross was found, supporting the idea that the buildings were used as a Christian meeting place.
Scientists have created a detailed single-cell map of asymptomatic dengue virus infections, revealing distinct immune responses that help protect individuals from the virus without symptoms. The findings could guide the development of safer and more effective dengue vaccines.
Global renewable energy growth accelerates, covering all new electricity demand in the first half of 2025, with solar and wind leading the way. China's manufacturing dominance makes small-scale rooftop solar systems widely accessible, providing reliable energy security for millions across Europe, South Asia, and the Global South.
Estrogen activates previously unknown pathways in the colon, triggering pain and increasing sensitivity to certain foods. This explains why women are more likely to suffer from IBS and provides potential new ways to treat the condition.
A custom deep-learning system generates detailed 3D point clouds across growth stages, accurately quantifying rice seedling growth traits. The system enables efficient, nondestructive monitoring and improved management of rice seedling cultivation in cold regions.
A team of researchers found that ants produce multiple classes of antimicrobials and compounds targeted to specific microbes, offering a potential solution to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. Ant extracts were highly effective against emerging human superbugs like Candida auris.
Top performers in science, music, chess, and sports exhibit different development patterns, contrary to previous research. They often engage in various disciplines early on and show gradual performance development before specializing. The study suggests fostering a pursuit of multiple disciplines can promote world-class performance.
A new AI method has identified 51 old pea varieties with high starch and protein content, potentially suitable for producing plant-based foods. The study shows a close relationship between seed appearance and chemical composition, enabling partial prediction of properties based on images.
Research from the University of St Andrews found that increases in women's parliamentary representation are related to enhanced public trust in national parliament. The study, which analyzed data from 107 countries, suggests that broad representation within parliament drives trust-building effects.
A new study found that quadrivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is associated with a reduced risk of high-grade vulvovaginal lesions. Expanding HPV vaccination, especially at younger ages, may help prevent these lesions.
A microscopic nematode genus, Halalaimus, has been discovered in both the Aleutian Trench and the South Sandwich Trench, two isolated deep-sea environments. The three identical genera found in these trenches have adapted to different habitats, highlighting the meiofauna paradox.
Researchers have compiled a comprehensive list of 166 human pluripotent stem cell lines available for clinical applications, guiding researchers and developers in selecting optimal cell lines. The study aims to drive hPSC-derived products towards the clinic, addressing a knowledge gap in off-the-shelf product development.
A new study found that most parents are aware of the importance of introducing peanuts to babies early, but lack clarity on details. Researchers recommend a consistent and timely approach, starting with peanut-containing foods as soon as solids begin, and continued exposure twice a week.
Researchers have discovered a novel natural compound, β-glucose-bound hydroxy mycosporine-sarcosine, produced by thermophilic cyanobacteria that can provide UV protection. The compound's unique biosynthesis pathway and chemical modifications contribute to its enhanced antioxidant potential.
Researchers developed an AI-based tool called BMVision to help radiologists detect kidney cancer faster and more accurately. The tool was validated in a study, which showed that AI assistance reduced the time needed to identify and report malignant lesions by one-third.
Researchers at Paderborn University and TU Dortmund University have developed materials smaller than the wavelength of light and precisely manipulated photons. They created quantum light sources for quantum computing and ultra-fast communication, as well as low-temperature electronics to control quantum experiments.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have developed an educational dynamic 3D computer game about the Neolithic period in Northern Europe using AI and free digital tools. The game features two AI-driven characters and allows players to explore a dramatized universe, promoting interactive learning and historical accuracy.
Dry eye disease affects 5-15% of people, causing symptoms like redness and burning sensation. Researchers generated human tear gland organoids from stem cells to understand the connection between DED and autophagy. They found that disabling autophagy led to cellular disruption, reduced tear protein secretion, and increased cell death.
A cross-institutional research team developed a new type of ADC using innovative memristor technology, improving energy efficiency by 15.1x and reducing circuit area by 30% compared to state-of-the-art solutions. The new adaptive converter also maintains high accuracy when running neural network tasks.
Researchers developed a tool to quickly identify resistant strains of S. aureus using genomic profiles and machine-learning models. The approach is based on gene-content information rather than highly detailed genomic profiles, making it more practical for real-life clinical contexts.
The UVS instrument collected data on the comet's composition, including oxygen, hydrogen, and dust-related features. The unique sunward viewpoint provided a downstream view of the comet's tails, allowing researchers to gain insights into its geometries.
A study by HKUMed found that childhood maltreatment increases the risk of schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders through altered behavior, cognition, and genomic changes. The research identified key risk factors and genetic markers associated with increased susceptibility to such disorders.
Research shows that high glucose levels cause mitochondria to move towards the periphery of pancreatic beta cells. This movement is linked to insulin secretion and may play a role in regulating blood sugar levels. The study found that inhibiting microtubules disrupted this process, suggesting a key role for these structures in mitochon...
Researchers create a new method for laser-based powder bed fusion that achieves unprecedented lattice walls and surfaces while reducing memory demand. The approach enables the high-fidelity fabrication of microscale shell lattices with improved strength and toughness.
The University of Hong Kong, ventureLAB, and the Smart City Consortium have signed a MoU to share resources, expertise, and collaborate on startups in both regions. The partnership aims to address challenges faced by HK technology companies accessing overseas markets and Canadian companies navigating local regulations.
A new catalyst made with single atoms of ruthenium and manganese oxybromide overcomes the challenge of producing oxygen efficiently in acidic conditions. The self-forming layer shields the catalyst from damage while remaining highly active, allowing it to produce hydrogen efficiently and stay stable over time.
The Lancet Commission on Transforming Primary Health Care aims to rebuild equitable and digitally enabled PHC systems worldwide. With a focus on people-centred care and digital innovation, the Commission seeks to address long-standing vulnerabilities in PHC, including ageing populations, social inequalities, and climate change.
Two HKU scholars, Professor Michael Häusser and Professor Xuhua He, have been elected as new members of the Hong Kong Academy of Sciences. Professor Häusser is recognized for his groundbreaking research on neural computation, while Professor He is a distinguished mathematician with numerous international honors.
Professors Fang and Zhang's pioneering research advances acoustic metamaterials by achieving a negative bulk modulus, enabling precise manipulation of sound waves. This breakthrough opens doors to transformative applications in acoustic technology, building upon earlier progress in controlling mass density.
A novel genome-resolved tracking method reveals how antibiotic-resistant bacteria and their resistance genes move across Hong Kong's urban waters, connecting human, animal, and environmental sources. The study provides insights into strategies for safeguarding public health and informs integrated monitoring systems.
The University of Hong Kong's HKU Business School has inaugurated its Shanghai Centre, marking a significant expansion into the Chinese market. The centre will focus on academic development, industry conversion services, and sci-tech innovation incubation.
Researchers at Kyoto University identified five molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer stem cells and developed a practical prognostic indicator, the general colorectal cancer signature (GCS), to predict patient outcomes. The GCS was validated with a novel orthotopic xenograft mouse model and showed promising clinical significance.
The International Lunar Sample Research Symposium 2025 was held at HKU, attracting 230 participants from around the world. The event aimed to share recent findings from Chang'e-5 and Chang'e-6 missions, Apollo samples, and other lunar sample-related studies, preparing for upcoming human lunar missions.
Researchers discovered a tiny RNA molecule called PreS that helps viruses copy their DNA more efficiently and boost replication in bacterial cells. This discovery provides important insights for designing smarter phage-based therapies against antibiotic-resistant infections.
A new study published in JAMA Oncology found that the HPV vaccine can protect against severe precancerous lesions of the vulva and vagina. Vaccination before the age of 17 offers the strongest protection, with a 55% lower risk compared to unvaccinated women.
A population-based cohort study found that virtual sick visits to primary care were associated with a small increase in emergency department use in children aged 3 months or older. The study suggests judicious use of virtual primary care to manage acute illness in children is warranted.
A retrospective analysis of Indian women with mild to moderate acne reveals a significant increase in acne counts during the late luteal and early follicular phases, corresponding to premenstrual and menstrual periods. Topical interventions and skincare practices may mitigate hormonally driven acne fluctuations.
The number of US pertussis cases has surged sixfold since the pandemic began, with over 26,600 reported in 2024. Many Americans are unaware of whooping cough symptoms or that a vaccine exists to prevent it. Despite widespread agreement on the causes and risks of the disease, vaccination rates remain low.
Researchers have identified a delicate balance in Antarctic ocean processes that control the formation of dense water, which drives global ocean circulation and climate patterns. Melting ice shelves and changes to sea ice could lead to significant impacts on global climate.
Scientists have discovered that studying 7% of the bone mass can accurately predict whether a woman with osteoporosis will suffer a hip fracture. The new computational model has an accuracy rate of 95%, allowing for personalized treatments tailored to specific areas of need.
Boston Children's Hospital will provide clinical research coordination for the IMPACT Network, a multisite clinical trial infrastructure enabling rapid and effective therapeutic development for autism. The grant, from ARIA, will support the development of study design protocols, recruitment strategies, and efficient workflows.
Scientists from the University of Reading have mapped out worst-case climate threats facing the UK, including year-round cooling and rapid sea level rises. The research provides practical tools for policymakers to prepare for extreme outcomes, filling a gap in current planning.
The report debunks the 'climate war' theory, revealing that Syria's civil war was rooted in policy and socioeconomic failures. The agricultural sector rebounded quickly after a severe drought, with satellite imagery showing cropland activity returned to near-record levels just before the war began.