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Science News for February 20, 2025


Breakthrough discovery: HKUMed identifies novel gene behind neurodevelopmental syndrome for enhanced clinical treatment

A clinical research team from HKUMed discovered a novel gene DDX39B linked to a rare neurodevelopmental syndrome, causing developmental delay and hypotonia. The study used multi-omics analysis and identified six patients worldwide with variations in the gene, providing crucial information for targeted diagnostic and treatment plans.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalBrain·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Effects of cold pool dynamics and vertical motion on the convergence of mountainous downslope and plain thunderstorm clusters

Research in Beijing reveals that differences in wind fields and thermodynamic conditions hinder or enhance thunderstorm cluster movement, with cold pools acting like topographical features to strengthen convergence. The study analyzed a specific merger process using simulation data from the Weather Research and Forecasting Model.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateFeb 20, 2025

The brain perceives unexpected pain more strongly

The study investigates how the brain perceives pain and finds that the Surprise Hypothesis better explains the mechanism. Participants in the experiment reported stronger pain when they were surprised by painful stimuli, confirming the importance of reducing the gap between expected and unexpected events.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCognition·DateFeb 20, 2025

Impacts of workplace bullying on sleep can be “contagious” between partners

Research by the University of East Anglia found that exposure to workplace bullying can lead to increased symptoms of insomnia in both individuals and their partners. The study also highlights the 'contagious' nature of sleep issues between partners, where one person's sleep problems can influence the other.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Lack of global diversity in criminology education

New research from the University of Adelaide reveals a lack of global diversity in criminology education, with only 9.13% of publications having an author from outside the US. The study highlights the need for greater inclusion of international voices and perspectives to decolonize curricula and promote cross-border collaboration.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Criminal Justice Education·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 20, 2025

Yonatan Stelzer earns the 2025 ISSCR Outstanding Young Investigator Award for his breakthrough approaches to addressing fundamental problems in mammalian development

Dr. Yonatan Stelzer has made significant contributions to understanding epigenetic mechanisms and embryonic development, challenging conventional knowledge with innovative approaches. His research aims to establish fully data-driven quantitative models of spatiotemporal processes in mammals.

New solution to help therapy ‘dropouts’

A new review of clinical trials found that single-session interventions can significantly improve mental health outcomes for both youth and adults, with 83% reporting positive effects. The approach is poised to fill gaps in the mental health care system, particularly for digital, self-guided therapies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAnnual Review of Clinical Psychology·DateFeb 20, 2025

New AI system accurately maps urban green spaces, exposing environmental divides

A new AI system uses satellite imagery to track urban green spaces with high accuracy, revealing stark disparities in green space distribution across neighborhoods. The system's effectiveness is demonstrated through a study in Karachi, where it exposed areas with limited vegetation facing higher temperatures and air pollution.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalACM Journal on Computing and Sustainable Societies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2025

Paola Arlotta receives the 2025 ISSCR Momentum Award for her innovative work using stem cell-derived brain organoids to study human brain development and disease

Dr. Paola Arlotta's groundbreaking research on stem cell-derived brain organoids has redefined human brain development and neurological disease understanding. Her work provides access to the complexities of developing human brains, making her a deserving recipient of the ISSCR Momentum Award.

Child ADHD risk linked to mother’s use of acetaminophen

A study published in Nature Mental Health found a significant link between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen and the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The research tracked 307 women during pregnancy and followed their offspring for 8-10 years, finding that children exposed to acetaminophen had...

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeCase study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine prescriptions during the COVID-19 pandemic soared far above pre-pandemic levels

US outpatient prescriptions for ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, with usage being three times higher among adults aged 65 and older. The study's findings highlight the need for policy reforms to combat misinformation and mistrust in scientific institutions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2025

Lancet article details drug’s lack of benefit for head and neck cancer

A recent Lancet article revealed that durvalumab combined with radiation therapy offers no benefits for patients with head and neck cancer who cannot receive cisplatin. However, a new clinical trial is underway to test the use of a heavy metal to enhance radiation therapy, providing potential new options for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 20, 2025

Unlocking bone repair: FGFR antagonists restore mandibular bone repair in osteochondrodysplasia

Researchers discovered that FGFR antagonists can effectively rescue impaired bone repair in mouse models of osteochondrodysplasia. The treatments promote chondrocyte differentiation and increase apoptosis rates, enhancing bone formation and mineralization. This breakthrough offers new hope for individuals with skeletal disorders caused...

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalBone Research·DateFeb 20, 2025

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder less likely to have severe injuries than those with ADHD

A new study found that children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may be less likely to experience severe injuries, especially orthopedic and animal-inflicted injuries. The research highlights the need for tailored injury prevention strategies for each condition, emphasizing distinct injury profiles between ASD and ADHD.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2025

Tests on sunglasses show deficiencies in protection against ultraviolet rays

A study analyzing 12 sunglasses models found that only one met international safety limits for UV radiation exposure. The lenses lose their ability to block UV radiation over time, increasing the risk of eye damage. To minimize this risk, scientists suggest adopting ICNIRP limits as standard practice.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalResearch on Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 20, 2025

Paxlovid’s impact on hospitalization and death in COVID-vaccinated older adults far weaker than previously thought

New UCLA-led research finds that Paxlovid does not significantly reduce COVID-19 hospitalization and mortality among vaccinated older adults. The study suggests that Paxlovid's potential effect on COVID-19 hospitalization in vaccinated older adults is four times weaker than originally reported.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2025

Study suggests new molecular strategy for treating fragile X syndrome

Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute have discovered a new approach to treating fragile X syndrome by enhancing the activity of a specific component of 'NMDA' receptors. This strategy normalizes protein synthesis, neural activity and seizure susceptibility in hippocampus of fragile X lab mice, offering a promising therapeutic target.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

New technique to make food deliveries more efficient

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique to improve the efficiency of food-delivery operations. The technique accounts for key factors such as food supply, location, and vehicle capacity to determine optimized routes that make food delivery faster and more fuel-efficient.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalComputer-Aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2025

New knowledge portal adiposetissue.org enhances obesity and metabolism research with centralized data

The Adiposetissue.org platform integrates transcriptomic, proteomic, and clinical data from over 6,000 individuals to explore obesity-related changes and weight-loss effects. Researchers can now analyze comprehensive datasets without bioinformatics expertise.

Research shows restricting flavored e-cigarettes cuts vaping rates but raises smoking rates for young adults

A recent study from the University of Missouri and Yale University found that restricting flavored e-cigarettes leads to a decrease in vaping among young adults. However, this restriction also increases traditional cigarette smoking among young adults compared to states without such restrictions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2025

Scientists call for efforts to protect habitats of critically endangered shark species

A new study suggests that up to 70% of suitable habitats for the critically endangered whitefin swellshark will be lost over the next 75 years due to predicted ocean changes. The researchers believe that Australia's proactive conservation measures, such as marine protected areas, offer hope for the species' survival.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalPeerJ·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2025

Harbour BioMed and Insilico Medicine achieve strategic collaboration to advance AI-driven antibody discovery and development

The collaboration aims to accelerate antibody discovery and development using Harbour BioMed's technology platform and Insilico's AI expertise. The companies will develop next-generation AI-powered antibodies for immunology, oncology, and neuroscience, aiming to deliver innovative therapies with enhanced specificity, efficacy, and safety.

Exercise your way to lower blood pressure: Brain pathway to fight high blood pressure

A new study found that voluntary exercise restores Stat3 levels in the amygdala, a region involved in emotional responses and blood pressure regulation. This restoration prevents stress-induced hypertension, highlighting a previously unknown brain-based mechanism behind exercise's ability to combat high blood pressure.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalActa Physiologica·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Wayne State University research to help better understand critical cell biological processes that may lead to new disease treatments

The five-year grant will aid researchers in understanding the underlying biology of several diseases by studying mitophagy, a process that degrades damaged mitochondria. By examining how genetic modifications affect mitophagy, researchers may discover new methods to address conditions like Parkinson's disease and diabetes.

Hidden genetic causes of congenital heart disease identified

Researchers at The Mount Sinai Hospital have identified 10 novel gene pairs potentially linked to the development of CHD. Their study uses trio exome sequencing data to uncover previously hidden genetic risks, which could improve diagnostic precision and open new avenues for personalized treatment strategies.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2025

Plasma arc cutting: PNU and KIMM scientists together decode gas flow dynamics

Researchers develop novel methods to visualize and understand gas flow dynamics in plasma arc cutting, improving cut quality and efficiency. They found that curved cutting fronts result in oblique shockwave structures, which reduce flow velocity and can lead to safer and more efficient dismantling of nuclear facilities.

SourcePusan National University·JournalInternational Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2025

Hybrid transparent electrodes enhance efficiency and longevity of perovskite solar cells

Researchers from Indian Institute of Technology developed bifacial perovskite solar cells with a novel NiO/Ag/NiO transparent electrode, achieving high efficiency, durability, and infrared transparency. The cells demonstrated impressive power conversion efficiencies and high bifaciality factors.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateFeb 20, 2025

Solution-based ultraviolet photodiode with ZnO Nanoparticle/Poly(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate heterojunction and negative capacitance

Researchers have developed a simple, low-cost, and high-performance ultraviolet detector using ZnO NPs PEDOT: PSS heterojunction. The device exhibits excellent photosensitivity, fast optical switching characteristics, and short rise time compared to other photodetectors.

SourceAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·JournalAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·TypeNews article·DateFeb 20, 2025

BESSY II: Building block of the catalyst for oxygen formation in photosynthesis reproduced

Researchers at HZB and HU Berlin have discovered a high-spin manganese centre, crucial for molecular oxygen formation in natural photosynthesis. The discovery, made possible by BESSY II's unique experimental capabilities, sheds light on the complex process of photosynthesis.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Revolutionizing dynamic facial projection mapping: A leap forward in augmented reality

Researchers developed innovative techniques and optical solutions to overcome long-standing challenges in facial projection mapping. They achieved unprecedented speed in dynamic facial projection mapping while maintaining high accuracy, and proposed methods to simulate video annotations and minimize alignment artifacts.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Alzheimer's disease, dementias chronically undiagnosed yet early detection rarely used

Only about 1 in 5 older Americans have undergone cognitive screening in the past year, highlighting a persistent barrier to diagnosis and treatment. Researchers emphasize the importance of early conversations about cognitive health to prevent progression and improve outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Michigan School of Public Health·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Diagnosis Assessment & Disease Monitoring·DateFeb 20, 2025

Versatile BiFeO3 shining in piezocatalysis: From materials engineering to diverse applications

BiFeO3's unique properties make it a promising material for piezocatalysis, with potential applications in organic pollutant degradation, hydrogen production, CO2 reduction, and sterilization. A comprehensive review paper explores its structural features, synthesis methods, optimization strategies, and diverse applications.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateFeb 20, 2025

Small amounts of moderate to vigorous physical activity are associated with big reductions in dementia risk

A new study found that engaging in as little as 35 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week significantly lowers the risk of developing dementia. Even frail older adults can benefit from low-dose exercise, with the risk decreasing by up to 69%.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateFeb 20, 2025

Another way longer paternity leaves help new parents

A longer paternity leave can improve the co-parenting relationship between moms and dads by making mothers less likely to discourage fathers' involvement. When fathers take more time off after their child is born, mothers relax unrealistic high standards for fathers' parenting and are less reliant on others' evaluations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSex Roles·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Recognizing the evolution of clinical syndrome spectrum progression in individuals with single large-scale mitochondrial DNA deletion syndromes (SLSMDS))

A retrospective natural history study of 30 patients with single large-scale mitochondrial DNA deletion syndromes (SLSMD) reveals a broader clinical presentation than previously thought. The study identifies key molecular details, including a recurrent deleted region in the MT-ND5 gene and elevated levels of biomarker GDF-15.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2025

The inner ear of Neanderthals reveals clues about their enigmatic origin

A study led by Alessandro Urciuoli and Mercedes Conde-Valverde found that the morphological diversity of Neanderthals' semicircular canals is lower than previously thought, suggesting a bottleneck event. This challenges the theory that Neanderthals originated after a significant genetic diversity loss.

SourceInstitut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Politecnico di Milano and Georgia Tech unveil new scenarios for asteroid deflection

Researchers from Politecnico di Milano and Georgia Tech analyzed NASA's DART mission to asteroid Dimorphos, revealing a viable mechanism for ejecta evolution and understanding the impact of an asteroid's shape on deflection. The studies suggest that sending multiple smaller impactors can increase the asteroid push while reducing costs.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2025

New ACS study shows cancer mortality rates among Black people declining, but remain higher than other racial and ethnic groups

According to a new ACS study, cancer mortality rates among Black people have declined by 49% since 1991, with similar declines in men and women. However, these disparities persist, with Black individuals facing a higher risk of cancer death for various cancers and lower survival rates compared to other racial and ethnic groups.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCA A Cancer Journal for Clinicians·DateFeb 20, 2025

Daily cannabis use linked to public health burden

A new study at George Washington University suggests daily cannabis use is associated with a syndrome that causes severe symptoms, including pain and repeated hospital trips. The condition, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, affects individuals who start using cannabis in their teens and can lead to costly medical issues.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2025

Deep Nanometry reveals hidden nanoparticles

Deep Nanometry enables high-speed analysis of nanoparticles, detecting even trace amounts of rare particles like extracellular vesicles indicative of colon cancer. This technique has potential applications in various fields including vaccine development and environmental monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Unveiling the intricate mechanisms behind oxysterol-induced cell death

Researchers at Doshisha University reveal that 25-hydroxycholesterol causes a specific type of cell death called ferroptosis, which could contribute to various diseases. The study identifies two key mechanisms by which 25-OHC induces ferroptosis, including inhibition of cellular pathways and disruption of antioxidant systems.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

A new gene identified in the search for a therapy to treat malignant cardiac arrythmia

Researchers have discovered a novel gene therapy that can reverse conduction slowing and prevent cardiac arrhythmias by introducing the SCN10a-short gene into heart muscle cells. The treatment has shown promise in animal models and human cell studies, offering a potential solution for millions affected by arrhythmias worldwide.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 20, 2025