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Science News for February 18, 2025


Is it human, or is it AI?

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found large differences in grammatical, lexical, and stylistic features between text written by humans and AI-generated LLMs. The study highlights the limitations of LLMs in mimicking human writing styles and their potential impact on education.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2025

New AI model improves brain-computer interface control for ALS patients

A new AI-based brain signal decoding model has improved how people with ALS use BCIs to predict their thoughts, achieving 74.06% accuracy in classifying left and right hand movement intention. The model's graph attention network design allows it to adapt to each user's unique brain patterns, leading to more consistent and personalized ...

SourceELSP·JournalNeuroelectronics·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 18, 2025

Robot faster than physicians at spotting side effects

A new study at the University of Gothenburg found that a software robot can detect side effects faster than physicians during amiodarone treatment for cardiac arrhythmia. The robot also recommends appropriate intervals between lab tests, aligning with standard practices and reducing unnecessary testing.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 18, 2025

New therapy reduces reoffending in male offenders with antisocial personality disorder

A new psychological therapy, MBT-ASPD, has been found to reduce rates of violence and aggression among male offenders with antisocial personality disorder. The treatment showed a significant decrease in symptoms and reoffending rates, offering a promising new approach for treating this challenging condition.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Revolutionizing energy-efficient smart windows: A flexible dual-band electrochromic device with energy storage

Researchers have developed a flexible dual-band electrochromic device that integrates energy storage, reducing building energy consumption. The device offers excellent performance in various climate zones, providing substantial energy savings through selective modulation of light and heat across multiple wavelengths.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Obesity surgery tourism – only approved centres should be carrying out recognised procedures to avoid further tragedies

New guidelines from European Association for the Study of Obesity aim to improve patient safety in obesity surgery medical tourism. The guidelines recommend multiple aspects of care, including at least 2 years of follow-up and pre-operative alcohol screening, to prevent serious injuries and death.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·JournalInternational Journal of Surgery·DateFeb 18, 2025

Using a data-driven approach to synthesize single-atom catalysts that can purify water

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a novel method to accelerate the development of single-atom catalysts (SACs) for robust and efficient water purification. Using data-driven predictions, they identified an optimized Fe-SAC with high decontamination performance, breaking down pollutants in water.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 18, 2025

We are no longer living longer, UEA study shows

A new study from the University of East Anglia finds that European life expectancy has slowed down since 2011 due to factors such as poor diets, lack of physical activity, and obesity. The research suggests that prioritizing healthier lifestyles in younger years is crucial for extending old age.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Medicaid telehealth reimbursement policies are exacerbating workforce shortages in safety net clinics, study finds

A new study published in JAMA Network Open finds that low Medicaid telehealth reimbursement is causing financial instability and barriers to care for vulnerable populations at Federally Qualified Health Centers. Researchers recommend payment parity, long-term funding, and hybrid care models to address the crisis.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 18, 2025

Unraveling the role of the Wnt pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma: From molecular mechanisms to therapeutic implications

The Wnt signaling pathway is essential for HCC development, promoting cell proliferation, migration, and immune evasion. Targeting this pathway holds significant promise for therapeutic strategies, including small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and gene therapies.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateFeb 18, 2025

Avoiding the workplace mediocrity trap

Rutgers researchers find that teams with high rates of envy often ostracize their best performers, leading them to intentional underperformance. To combat this, employers should encourage proactive behaviors and evaluate performance based on required outputs.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Occupational Health Psychology·DateFeb 18, 2025

Nanoparticle island-modified LiMn₂O₄ electrode advances lithium extraction from brine

Researchers have developed a novel LiMn₂O₄ electrode material with improved lithium extraction capacity and cycle stability. The SnO₂ nanoparticle island-modified LMO electrode material shows good selectivity and stability for lithium ions, enabling efficient electrochemical salt lake lithium extraction.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Light-powered breakthrough enables precision tuning of quantum dots

Researchers at NC State University have developed a new technique to tune the optical properties of quantum dots using light, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. This method allows for precise control over the bandgap, enabling the creation of high-quality perovskite quantum dots for optoelectronic devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Guidelines needed for interpreting continuous glucose monitoring reports in those without diabetes

A new study found high discordance among clinical experts on interpreting CGM reports from individuals without diabetes, highlighting the need for more research and guidelines. Experts recommend follow-up and specific reasoning for their decisions, despite having extensive CGM experience.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Diabetes Science and Technology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 18, 2025

Brain network disorders review uncovers the link between metabolic disorders and Alzheimer's disease

Researchers explore the connection between Alzheimer's and metabolic syndrome, finding links between insulin regulation, high blood pressure, and obesity. The study suggests that maintaining healthy blood fat levels may be crucial for brain health, paving way for potential therapeutic developments.

SourceBrain Network Disorders Editorial Office·JournalBrain Network Disorders·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 18, 2025

Peptides to clean up microplastics

Scientists have identified peptides that can capture and hold microplastics, providing a potential solution for removing these tiny plastic particles from environments. The method combines biophysical modeling, molecular dynamics, quantum computing, and reinforcement learning to optimize the binding of plastics to the peptides.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateFeb 18, 2025

Even after learning the right idea, humans and animals still seem to test other approaches, study suggests

A new MIT study finds that humans and marmosets retain a tendency to test other approaches to tasks, even when they have learned the optimal strategy. This behavior could help reveal needed adjustments in uncertain environments. The findings also add weight to the use of marmoset models for autism studies.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Researchers uncover surprising link to stroke risk

A new study from the University of Texas at Arlington found that Americans aged 65 and older who experienced parental divorce as children were more likely to suffer a stroke compared to their peers. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 older Americans and found that about 14% had experienced parental divorce during childhood.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPLOS One·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 18, 2025

Fossils reveal rapid land recovery after end-Permian extinction

Researchers discovered that tropical riparian ecosystems recovered rapidly within two million years of the end-Permian mass extinction, indicating a faster-than-thought adaptation. This finding contradicts previous theories on ecosystem recovery and suggests that life on land may have been more resilient than previously believed.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateFeb 18, 2025

Cholesterol metabolism byproduct linked to Parkinson’s disease

Researchers have discovered a critical link between a cholesterol byproduct and Parkinson's disease development in mice. The study highlights the role of 24-OHC in forming Lewy bodies and killing dopamine neurons, with potential therapeutic targets emerging as drugs that prevent its production.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

New research brings hope for improved outcomes and survival rates for patients facing a pancreatic cancer diagnosis

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered a biomarker panel that can accurately identify patients at risk of developing pancreatic cancer, offering new hope for early detection and improved treatment. The study uses a combination of blood and fluid analysis to distinguish between low- and high-risk patients.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Radiation plus combination immunotherapy may help preserve bladder in some patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer

Researchers found that radiation combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors durvalumab and tremelimumab resulted in durable responses allowing for bladder preservation in localized MIBC patients. The study showed a high efficacy rate of 93% complete response rate, with 84% overall survival rate after two years.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 18, 2025

Could microRNAs help us understand why different birds react differently to being infected with bird flu?

A recent study found that different birds react differently to being infected with bird flu, and microRNAs may play a key role in this variation. The researchers analyzed blood samples from ruddy turnstones and found 163 different forms of microRNA, including two unique to birds.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Avian Biology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 18, 2025

From plants to people: How amino acid, vitamin balance links plant immunity to epilepsy

A study by researchers at the University of Kentucky has found that plant immune responses and human neurological health share common biochemical pathways. This discovery highlights the importance of plant-based diets for essential vitamins and amino acids, and suggests a link between disruptions in amino acid metabolism and human health.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Don’t bin your blood

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood researchers surveyed over 4,000 people with haemochromatosis and found that their blood and plasma can be used to save lives. The study highlights the potential for these donors to increase blood supplies globally, particularly in countries accepting plasma donations from individuals with this condition.

SourceAustralian Red Cross Lifeblood·JournalTransfusion·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 18, 2025

Physically demanding work is not enough to stay healthy: Leisure-time physical activity is key for type 2 diabetes risk reduction

A new study highlights the importance of distinguishing between domains of physical activity. Researchers found that engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity during leisure time reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, while occupational physical activity has no similar benefits. The study's findings suggest that current WHO phys...

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 18, 2025

Einstein Probe catches X-ray odd couple

Scientists discovered a rare binary system consisting of a massive Be star and a compact white dwarf, with the Einstein Probe catching the X-ray signal from its initial flare-up to its fading away. The analysis revealed clues about the elements present in the exploding material, including nitrogen, oxygen, and neon.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Coffee grounds and Reishi mushroom spores can be 3D printed into a compostable alternative to plastics

A team of researchers at the University of Washington has developed a novel method for 3D printing objects using a mixture of coffee grounds, brown rice flour, and Reishi mushroom spores. The resulting material is compostable, lightweight, and strong, with a density similar to that of polystyrene foam.

SourceUniversity of Washington·Journal3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing·DateFeb 18, 2025

A newly discovered mechanism rejuvenates aging cells

A newly discovered mechanism has identified a key protein, AP2A1, that toggles between 'young' and 'old' cell states. By suppressing AP2A1 in older cells, researchers were able to reverse senescence and promote cellular rejuvenation. This breakthrough may lead to new treatment targets for diseases associated with old age.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCellular Signalling·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Use of child sexual abuse material is often associated with other forms of violence – researchers gathered unique data from users of child sexual abuse material on the dark web

A recent study found that individuals charged with sexual offenses against adults are at high risk of committing crimes against children, with up to 40% reporting interest in violent acts against minors. The study also identified effective prevention methods and a model of peer support for parents of child victims.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateFeb 18, 2025

Research shows how sellers and buyers can get better deals in eBay ‘best offer’ bargaining

Researchers found that eBay sellers who respond slowly to buyer offers may be signaling they are close to accepting the price. Buyers, on the other hand, are discouraged by slow responses and less likely to make counteroffers. By taking a slow response as a positive sign, buyers can potentially get better deals.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2025

Landmark study of Chagas disease in Paraguay supports use of rapid tests to improve access to diagnosis

A landmark study led by ISGlobal found that combining rapid diagnostic tests with conventional serology improves access to diagnosis for Chagas disease. The prevalence of Chagas is six times higher in an indigenous community in Paraguay compared to the capital.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Study by Montana State ecologist finds eastern monarch butterflies delaying fall migration

Research by Montana State University ecologist Diane Debinski found that eastern monarch butterflies are delaying their fall migration, staying in the field for nine days longer than they did in 2003. This delay was linked to a similar shift in the timing of milkweed blooming, which could have implications for population dynamics and v...

SourceMontana State University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Americans willing to pay nearly $100 billion to reduce gun violence

A new study finds Americans are willing to pay nearly $100 billion for policies that reduce gun violence by 20%. The research, conducted by Duke University and the University of Chicago, shows widespread support from all demographics for stronger intervention. With a national WTP estimate of $97.6 billion, Americans are willing to inve...

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 18, 2025

Geo3DTouch: Getting in touch with the data

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have developed tactile learning materials that allow students to explore mathematical concepts and scientific data using touch. The project, Geo3DTouch, aims to create inclusive access to education for people with sight impairments by providing 3D printed prototypes and detailed instructions.

Scientists unlock one of the toughest biomaterials and discovers clues to pollen’s expiration date

Researchers at Umea University discovered a way to break open protective walls of pollen grains without damaging the inside cell and its components. The study found that essential proteins for maintaining energy production were absent from mitochondria, potentially explaining why pollen grains have limited lifetimes.

SourceUmea University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

HonorHealth Research Institute taps leading anti-cancer drug development expert to head its new Center for Translational Science

Dr. Sunil Sharma, a renowned expert in creating anti-cancer drugs, has been named director of HonorHealth Research Institute's new Center for Translational Science. He will lead the development of grants, education, and collaborations to translate basic scientific discoveries into advanced treatments.

SourceHonorHealth Research Institute·TypeNews article·DateFeb 18, 2025

Pusan National University researchers develop self-protecting nanoparticles for effective treatment of colorectal cancer

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel drug delivery system that uses nanoparticles to target and kill colorectal cancer cells. The system, which involves encapsulating cancer cell-activated nanoconjugates in an alginate matrix, can selectively deliver drugs to tumor cells while minimizing side effects.

SourcePusan National University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Peristaltic pump flow induces amyloid formation

Researchers from Osaka University found that peristaltic pump action promotes amyloid nucleation in supersaturated fluids, including blood and cerebrospinal fluid. High shear stress caused by the pumping motion mechanically breaks supersaturation to induce amyloid formation.

SourceOsaka University·Journalnpj Biosensing·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Intelligent purification of natural resource element change polygons driven by remote sensing spatiotemporal knowledge graphs

A novel method has been proposed for purifying natural resource element change polygons, reducing false alarms by 95.37% while maintaining high recall rates. The method combines multi-source data integration with spatiotemporal knowledge graphs to improve automation and efficiency in natural resource monitoring.

Multiple sclerosis: Cell-catching implant helps identify successful treatment in mice

A new sponge-like implant helps guide a treatment that slows or stops a degenerative condition similar to multiple sclerosis. The implant attracted diseased immune cells, enabling researchers to study and target them with a nanoparticle-based treatment, which prevented mice from developing symptoms such as paralysis if administered early.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2025

Machine learning maps animal feeding operations to improve sustainability

Researchers developed a machine learning model that predicts the presence of animal feeding operations with high accuracy, filling a data gap crucial for managing their environmental impacts. The model uses predictors such as surface temperature and phosphorus levels to identify locations without relying on aerial images.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateFeb 18, 2025

Biomedicine shows the way to future food crops

University of Queensland researchers have successfully introduced genetic material into plants via their roots using nanoparticle technology, enabling rapid crop improvement. This innovative approach could lead to the development of new crop varieties with improved yield and quality without traditional breeding methods.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

New study suggests panitumumab with low-dose capecitabine as a safer, effective maintenance treatment for advanced colorectal cancer

Researchers found that a combination of Panitumumab and low-dose Capecitabine is an effective and well-tolerated maintenance regimen for patients with wild-type KRAS metastatic colorectal cancer. The treatment delayed disease progression while managing side effects, improving patients' quality of life.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeNews article·DateFeb 18, 2025

Machine learning drives "autonomous" control of particle accelerators

Researchers are using machine learning to enable autonomous control of particle accelerators, opening up new possibilities for commissioning and operating high-power accelerators. The technology has been successfully applied to the CAFe2 superconducting segment, achieving global trajectory adaptive control.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Physics Mechanics and Astronomy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Biologists transform gut bacteria into tiny protein pharmacies

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a method to convert gut bacteria into mini protein factories that produce and release sustained flows of targeted proteins within the lower intestine. This approach eliminates a major roadblock in delivering drugs to this part of the body, offering potential treatment for chronic diseases.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2025

Newfound circuit better explains how the brain recognizes what is familiar and important

Researchers at NYU Langone Health identified a new direct feedback loop in the brain that mixes sensory information, memories, and emotions to label sights and sounds as more important. This discovery may lead to new solutions for problems like post-traumatic stress disorder and autism.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

What makes us remember our dreams?

A study published in Communications Psychology found that dream recall is influenced by individual characteristics and external factors, including positive attitude toward dreams, mind-wandering tendency, and sleep patterns. Younger participants showed higher rates of dream recall, while older individuals experienced 'white dreams.'

SourceIMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca·JournalCommunications Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Legionnaires’ disease from a lake swim

Swimming in lakes with still water can lead to infection with Legionella bacteria, causing pneumonia. Risk factors include age over 50, smoking history, and compromised immune systems. Clinicians should suspect legionnaires' disease in patients with severe pneumonia and recent travel history.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeCase study·DateFeb 18, 2025