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Science News for February 11, 2025


Research spotlight: Projecting the impact of funding cuts to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)

A study projects the impact of PEPFAR funding cuts on South Africa, finding that eliminating funding would lead to significant increases in HIV infections and related deaths. The analysis highlights the devastating consequences of abrupt funding cuts, including a $1.7 billion increase in healthcare expenditure.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 11, 2025

Innovative dual-target drug may lead to new investigational approach for breast cancer patients

Researchers at University of Melbourne and Pfizer discover new insights into a dual-target drug that may supercharge cancer-fighting immune cells, potentially leading to improved outcomes for breast cancer patients. The study found that this approach can enhance anti-tumor immunity by intratumoral CD8+ T cells.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalClinical & Translational Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Why we need to expand the search for climate-friendly microalgae

Researchers highlight microalgae's capacity to mitigate CO2 emissions while driving sustainable industry, with 'smart microalgal bioprospecting' needed to unlock its full potential. Discovering new species with enhanced growth rates or lower resource demands could reduce costs and increase commercial viability.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNatural Products and Bioprospecting·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 11, 2025

Older people in England are happier now than before the COVID pandemic, new national study suggests

A new national study suggests that depression rates among older people in England remain slightly higher than pre-COVID, while overall happiness and life satisfaction have improved significantly since the pandemic. This finding highlights the need for policies addressing immediate and lingering effects of the pandemic on mental health.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAging & Mental Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 11, 2025

Fewer forest fires burn in North America today than in the past—and that's a bad thing

Research published in Nature Communications reveals that fewer forest fires are burning today than in the past, despite recent record-breaking fire years. This 'fire deficit' allows fuel to build up over time, creating conditions for more severe fires. The study highlights the importance of beneficial management fires on the landscape.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2025

NUS Medicine study: Inability of cells to recycle fats can spell disease

A new study from NUS Medicine has found that the protein Spns1 plays a key role in recycling fats out of cell compartments called lysosomes, preventing diseases like lysosomal storage disorders. The research uses cryoelectron microscopy to understand how Spns1 transports fats and highlights its importance for cellular health.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2025

D2-GCN: a graph convolutional network with dynamic disentanglement for node classification

The D2-GCN network dynamically adjusts the number of disentangled feature channels for each node during training, capturing nuanced changes in graph representations. Experiments show improved performance over baselines in single- and multi-label node classification tasks with clearer classification boundaries.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Study of female genital tract reveals key findings

A global research collaboration identified Lactobacillus crispatus as a key protective bacterium in the vaginal microbiome. The study also found significant variations in vaginal microbiomes across human populations, with implications for improved diagnostics and treatments.

SourceRutgers University·JournalTrends in Microbiology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 11, 2025

Texas A&M chemist wins NSF CAREER Award

Dr. Alison Altman, a Texas A&M chemist, has received the NSF CAREER Award to support her research on underexplored elements of the periodic table and their applications in technology. She aims to expand chemistry education at all levels, emphasizing its impact on everyday life.

New technology could quash QR code phishing attacks

Researchers have developed a new form of QR code that can protect users from phishing attacks by signaling whether a link is safe or not. The SDMQR codes provide an added layer of security without interfering with existing functionality, allowing companies to replace traditional barcodes with more sophisticated QR codes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalIEEE Security & Privacy·DateFeb 11, 2025

Sexual desire — the force that connects yet also divides

A recent study published in Nature Reviews examines the complex role of sexual desire in relationships, highlighting its potential to fade over time. The research reveals how desire can be shaped by biological, social, and psychological factors, influencing partnership dynamics and relationship longevity.

SourceReichman University·JournalNature Reviews Psychology·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 11, 2025

Purity and environmental concern

The study found that counties with strong emphasis on fairness norms had higher odds of favoring green practices, while those emphasizing purity norms had stronger influence on household carbon footprint. Counties with high education levels also showed increased support for green attitudes.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateFeb 11, 2025

Looking between cells

Researchers have created Rhobo6, a light microscopy probe that allows scientists to visualize the extracellular matrix in live tissues and animals without disrupting it. This breakthrough could lead to new insights into diseases linked to changes in the extracellular matrix and improve diagnostic imaging.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 11, 2025

Evidence of cannibalism 18,000 years ago

Researchers discovered signs of human remains being manipulated and dissected, indicating cannibalism among Late Ice Age societies in Central Europe. The findings suggest that cannibalism may have occurred due to conflicts over resources or territories, rather than necessity.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2025

PING

Professor Andrew Brodsky's book 'PING' offers a four-part framework to transform research insights into action. The framework includes Perspective, Taking, Nonverbal cues, and Goals, which help individuals communicate more effectively in virtual environments.

Native bee populations can bounce back after honey bees move out

Research found that native bee populations decreased in abundance and diversity when managed honey bees were introduced, but rebounded when apiaries were removed. Native bee phylogenetic diversity increased in areas with managed honey bees due to lower competition for resources.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Insect Science·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Precision in miniature: new microgripper technology for electronics and assembly

Researchers developed a novel electrothermal microgripper with remarkable deformation capabilities, excellent size compatibility, and reliable catch strength. The microgripper enables efficient manipulation and assembly of micro- and nano-scale objects, paving the way for innovations in high-tech industries.

Moderate-to-vigorous exercise in childhood may significantly postpone the initiation of tobacco smoking

A new study found that children who engage in moderate-to-vigorous exercise (MVPA) from age 11 are less likely to initiate tobacco smoking. By age 24, the risk of smoking was reduced by 60% compared to non-exercising peers. Continuous exposure to MVPA throughout childhood and young adulthood also showed a modest preventive effect.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalBehaviour Research and Therapy·DateFeb 11, 2025

MSU expert: Using light to hear biology

Scientists have developed a new technique called BioSonic spectroscopy, which uses short pulses of light to observe the nanoscale motion of virus particles. This allows researchers to capture the unique signature or 'sound' of each biological system, providing a new way to understand biology and potentially aiding in disease prevention.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2025

Autonomous sortie scheduling for carrier aircraft fleet under towing mode

A novel scheduling model abstracts the entire sortie process into a hybrid flow-shop scheduling problem, taking into account task priorities and resource constraints. The solution framework was validated in a simulation environment and shows significant improvement in sortie efficiency compared to existing strategies.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalDefence Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 11, 2025

Branch patterns in trees and art

Researchers found branch patterns in art to mirror those in nature, with values of α ranging from 1.5 to 2.8, corresponding to natural trees. Abstract artworks can be visually identified as trees using realistic α values, while works deviating from scaling exhibit reduced recognition.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateFeb 11, 2025

IEEE researchers provide mathematical solutions to study 2D light interaction in photonic crystal lasers

Researchers derived 2D coupled wave equations for photonic crystal surfaces, aiding the development of efficient laser devices. The findings established parallels between TM and transverse electric polarisation behaviours, offering unique advantages in certain configurations.

SourceInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 11, 2025

New study sheds light on the causes of fevers of unknown origin in sub-Saharan Africa

A new retrospective study found that nearly half of patients with fever of unknown origin in sub-Saharan Africa had a detectable pathogen, including bacterial strains and hemorrhagic fever viruses. The study highlights the need for strengthened laboratory capacity to improve diagnosis and treatment.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalJournal of Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Engineering biological reaction crucibles to rapidly produce proteins

Biomedical engineers at Duke University have developed a new technique that traps together cellular machinery to increase protein production rates. This approach uses synthetic disordered proteins to form compartments called biological condensates, which enhance the rate of protein production by bringing together biomolecular machinery...

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

New smart sensor takes the pain out of wound monitoring

Researchers developed a new flexible sensor that accurately measures both temperature changes and physical strain simultaneously, enabling clear pinpointing of signals. The sensor, made from laser-induced graphene, can detect small temperature changes and is self-powered, making it ideal for continuous monitoring in clinical settings.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Nationalism, geopolitical tensions, cultural gaps, and economic crises are reshaping global tourism, study finds

A new study by University of Sharjah finds that deglobalization is transforming global tourism, with travelers influenced by nationalist sentiments, geopolitical tensions, and cultural gaps. This shift towards domestic and culturally familiar travel has major implications for the global travel industry.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalTourism Management·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 11, 2025

Barbeque and grandma’s cookies: New study looks at nostalgia, comfort in food preparation for older adults

A Washington State University study explores the role of nostalgia and comfort in prepared meals for older adults. The research highlights the significance of texture variety and cheese flavor in increasing appeal, with participants preferring foods that evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Food Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Researchers discover new mechanism for male sex hormone

Researchers have identified a new mechanism for the male sex hormone 5α-DHT, which increases bone mineral density and promotes skeletal muscle growth. The discovery of the GPR133 receptor's activation by AP503 could lead to the development of new muscle-strengthening drugs with a lower side-effect profile.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

SNU researchers develop soft robot that crawls, climbs, and shape-shifts to move in new directions

A new type of soft robot can crawl like a worm, climb cables, and suddenly snap into a different shape to move in a new direction. The Snap Inflatable Modular Metastructure (SIMM) system allows the robot to both smoothly deform and rapidly change configuration using just one air source.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Mystery solved: New study reveals how DNA repair genes play a major role in Huntington's disease

Researchers discovered that mismatch repair genes are critical in eliciting damages to neurons vulnerable to Huntington's disease, triggering downstream pathologies and motor impairment. Targeting these genes may offer novel therapeutic approaches, including improving locomotor and gait deficits and reducing neuronal cell death.

JSCAI article at THT 2025 sets the standard for training pathways in interventional heart failure

The article proposes clear career paths and standardized training pathways in interventional heart failure, aiming to enable specialists to drive innovation and improve outcomes. It highlights the need for a formalized approach to training and career development in this field.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalJournal of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 11, 2025

From photons to protons: Argonne team makes breakthrough in high-energy particle detection

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new use for superconducting nanowire photon detectors to detect high-energy protons, opening up exciting opportunities in nuclear and particle physics. The team found that wire widths smaller than 400 nanometers demonstrate high detection efficiency.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research·DateFeb 11, 2025

Biosensing platform simultaneously detects vitamin C and SARS-CoV-2

Penn State researchers developed a portable and wireless device to simultaneously detect SARS-CoV-2 and vitamin C, enabling individuals and healthcare providers to make more effective treatment decisions. The device uses commercial transistors with printed laser-induced graphene, achieving high sensitivity and portability.

SourcePenn State·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

‘Smaller and better’: Rice research uncovers performance sweet spot for relaxor nanomaterial

The study reveals that relaxor ferroelectrics like lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT) exhibit improved performance when shrunk down to a precise range of 25-30 nanometers. This 'Goldilocks zone' size effect could enable advanced applications such as nanoelectromechanical systems and energy harvesting.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Scientists harness AI to help protect whales, advancing ocean conservation and planning

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed an AI tool that combines whale monitoring and environmental data to predict endangered whale habitat. The tool guides ships along the Atlantic coast to avoid critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, preventing deadly accidents and informing conservation strategies.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 11, 2025

Exotic waves with tangible effects

Exotic waves with tangible effects, known as Rayleigh–Bloch waves, have been found to transform into phantom-like entities above a certain cut-off frequency. At lower frequencies, these waves exhibit characteristic behavior around stainless steel struts, making them ideal for antenna design and potential communication purposes.

SourceUniversity of Augsburg·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Mechanical heart valve replacements have better long-term survival, study finds

A new study published in the European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery found that mechanical heart valve replacements have better long-term survival rates compared to biological valves. Patients who received mechanical valves had improved survival up to 13 years after surgery, with smaller valves showing greater benefits.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Gender and beliefs shape homophobic attitudes

A UNIGE team discovered that heterosexual individuals' interpretations of scientific data on sexual orientation are influenced by their own frame of reference, leading to both positive and negative attitudes towards homosexuality. The study found that religiosity plays a significant role in shaping these attitudes.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·TypeNews article·DateFeb 11, 2025

Grapevine anthocyanins: how drought stress triggers colorful adaptations

A new study reveals how drought stress stimulates anthocyanin biosynthesis in grape berries via the ABA signaling pathway and microRNA miR156b. This discovery offers crucial insights into how grapevines respond to water scarcity, providing a foundation for enhancing grape quality through precise genetic and environmental interventions.

How a breeding network could build a genetic pathway to more productive and climate-smart livestock in Africa

The African Animal Breeding Network can play a key role in transforming African livestock production systems by harnessing genomic technologies and breeding programs to drive genetic gains. This approach balances productivity with sustainability, supporting livelihoods and strengthening food security across the continent.

SourceInternational Livestock Research Institute·JournalNature Genetics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 11, 2025

Study takes a ‘bite’ out of shark depredation using citizen science

A citizen science study led by researchers from Florida Atlantic University has identified the most common shark species responsible for depredation in Florida's recreational fisheries. The study found that snapper-grouper species were the most frequently depredated target species group, while bull sharks and sandbar sharks were the mo...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2025

A gender gap in using AI for research

A significant gender gap was found in the use of AI for research, with male researchers experiencing a notable increase in productivity after ChatGPT's release. Female researchers spent less time using AI and perceived it as less efficient, exacerbating existing productivity disparities.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateFeb 11, 2025

Microbiome as a potential key to better treatment: Clinical study on new therapy for Crohn's disease

Researchers at TUM have developed a new therapeutic approach combining dietary therapy with fecal microbiome transfer to sustain inflammation-free states in Crohn's disease patients. The study found that the gut microbiome changes as a result of dietary therapy contribute to treatment success.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 11, 2025

Smart insoles revolutionize: a breakthrough in 3D ground reaction force estimation

A team of researchers developed a smart insole system that accurately measures body interaction with the ground, estimating ground reaction forces. The TG0 Smart Insole outperformed traditional methods with an error rate as low as 4.16%, offering a reliable and affordable solution for monitoring movement in real-world scenarios.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalIntelligent Sports and Health·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

Super-precise timing unlocked: satellites get a big boost

A new carrier-phase-based method achieves unprecedented precision in satellite-ground time synchronization, correcting for errors like motion delays, relativistic effects, and atmospheric disturbances. This breakthrough enhances positioning accuracy in GNSS, supports deep space exploration, and refines global clock networks.

Does the universe behave the same way everywhere? Gravitational lenses could help us find out

Researchers propose a new methodology to test the Universe's isotropy using Euclid space telescope data, aiming to detect potential anisotropies that challenge the Standard Model of Cosmology. If confirmed, these findings would open a new chapter in cosmology, potentially revising our understanding of the Universe's behavior.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 11, 2025

The prevalence of older Americans without disabilities increases substantially between 2008 and 2017

A study published in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus found that the prevalence of older Americans without disabilities increased from 61% in 2008 to 65% in 2017. This represents a significant improvement, with an additional 2.07 million older Americans potentially having had disabilities if trends had remained constant.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalArchives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 11, 2025