Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 27, 2025


The math behind social distancing: the rules that influence epidemic behavior

A research team identified simple rules governing decision-making during epidemics, which balance infection costs and social distancing. The guidelines predict population behavior based on disease reproduction number and infection cost, offering a new tool for governments to design intervention strategies.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2025

Progentos Therapeutics CEO Chris Loose named board member and chair of the Fellowship and Programs Council for Hertz Foundation

Chris Loose, Progentos Therapeutics CEO, is now chair of the Hertz Fellowship and Programs Council. He will oversee the selection process, administer awards, and facilitate connections among Hertz Fellows. The Hertz Foundation aims to empower innovative scientists and technologists through its prestigious fellowship program.

Element relational graph-augmented multi-granularity contextualized encoding for document-level event role filler extraction

A novel method, ERGM, was proposed for document-level event role filler extraction. It substantially outperforms strong baseline models and effectively captures dependency relationships between different event roles. The explicit graph-structured representation generated by a graph neural network is key to its success.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

How the nervous system modulates pain signals

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered a specific molecular change that affects the strength of pain sensation by altering action potential duration. This finding offers a novel approach to alleviate clinically relevant pain conditions through boosting potassium channel function.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2025

Guidelines for the creation of accessible consent materials and procedures: Lessons from research with autistic people and people with intellectual disability

The article presents guidelines for designing consent materials and procedures for autistic adults and people with intellectual disability, highlighting the importance of multiple modes to deliver content. These guidelines aim to improve accessibility and respectfulness in research with individuals on the autism spectrum.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAutism in Adulthood·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 27, 2025

Medicaid extension policies that cover all immigrants in a post-COVID world reduce inequities in postpartum insurance coverage

A new study found that Medicaid extension policies covering all immigrants led to a 4 percentage-point decrease in postpartum uninsurance among immigrant populations in New York City. However, Hispanic immigrants saw a smaller decline, highlighting awareness gaps as a barrier to full benefit.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 27, 2025

Why scientific results vary

A study published in BMC Biology found that different scientists working with the same datasets can arrive at vastly different results, emphasizing the importance of transparent analysis methods. The findings raise fundamental questions about reproducibility and reliability in scientific results.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalBMC Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 2025

Swarm-intelligence collaboration based regular scheduling and dynamic rescheduling of precast component production: in prefabricated building project management

Researchers propose a swarm-intelligence collaboration to optimize precast component production scheduling and rescheduling. The approach uses dynamic-interval synergy auctions and weighted Tchebycheff approaches to generate optimal schemes, improving management efficiency and reducing costs in prefabricated building project management.

SourceELSP·JournalSmart Construction·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2025

DNA barcodes narrow down possible sources of introductions of an invasive banana skipper butterfly pest

Researchers used DNA barcodes to narrow down the possible sources of introductions of an invasive banana skipper butterfly, finding evidence of aircraft-borne introductions in Japan and potentially in Mauritius. The study suggests that gravid females may be attracted to airport lights, increasing the risk of spread to new areas.

SourceCABI·JournalCABI Agriculture and Bioscience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

ASTRO issues its first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for anal cancer

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has published its first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for anal cancer, providing guidance on treatment options and techniques. The guideline recommends a combination of radiation therapy and drug therapy as the standard of care, with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IM...

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateFeb 27, 2025

Computing leaders propose measures to combat tech-facilitated intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation

The Association for Computing Machinery's Technology Policy Council issues brief calls on policymakers and tech companies to address tech abuse in intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation. The report highlights disturbing statistics and recommends expanding laws and regulations to protect users.

Birds breathe in dangerous plastics—and so do we

A new University of Texas at Arlington study reveals high concentrations of microplastics in bird lungs, with average particles per species and gram of lung tissue measured. The study highlights the urgent need to address plastic pollution and its far-reaching impacts on ecosystem health and human health.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2025

Unmasking inequalities in AI: new research reveals how artificial intelligence might reinforce inequality

A recent study suggests that AI systems replicate and amplify existing social inequalities when left unchecked, particularly in high-stakes areas like hiring and welfare distribution. The researchers argue for the need for greater transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in AI governance to ensure its use serves social justice.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·DateFeb 27, 2025

MLST evidence of two different sequence types of listeria monocytogenes strains used for commercial veterinary listeriosis vaccines

Researchers investigated two commercial veterinary listeriosis vaccine strains, revealing they belong to different phylogenetic lineages. The attenuated strains demonstrated distinct morphological characteristics when grown on bacterial media. These findings highlight the genetic diversity of Listeria monocytogenes used in vaccines.

Taking sports science in her stride: How Dr. Nerea Casal García aims to maximize performance on the track

Dr. Casal García's work has revealed a significant shift in stride patterns of female elite athletes during 400 meter hurdle competitions, leading to improved performances. Her research aims to tailor athlete training based on individual characteristics, bridging the gap between academia and practical application.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2025

Patients with depression from wealthier areas more likely to use telehealth for mental health care

A new study found that patients with depression from high-wealth neighborhoods in Maryland were significantly more likely to have telehealth visits compared to those from low-wealth neighborhoods. This trend suggests that telehealth may not be improving access to care for all patients, especially those living in disadvantaged areas.

Stem cell transplant clears clinical safety hurdle for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration

A new stem cell transplant treatment has shown promising results in clearing clinical safety hurdles for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration. The treatment involves removing abnormal blood vessels and transplanting stem cell-derived retinal cells to replace damaged or lost retinal cells.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateFeb 27, 2025

Sydney koalas’ Catch-22

A recent study highlights the unique challenges facing Sydney's koala population, which is one of the last strongholds for New South Wales' koalas in NSW. The populations have low genetic diversity, making them highly susceptible to environmental threats and disease outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalConservation Genetics·TypeCase study·DateFeb 27, 2025

Deep-learning framework advances tissue analysis in spatial transcriptomics

Researchers developed a deep-learning framework, STAIG, to automatically map distinct genetic activity to tissue regions without manual alignment. The study demonstrates superior performance across various conditions, showcasing its potential for cancer research and understanding complex biological systems.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2025

Patients with mental health conditions would favour non-invasive interventions over medication, finds a new survey

A new survey found that patients with neurological and mental health disorders prefer non-invasive neuromodulation interventions over current medications. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that providing accurate information to patients improves their perception of these treatments.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 27, 2025

Neurons gather together for vision

Researchers have discovered column-like structures in the visual cortex of mice, where neurons processing stimuli from the same eye form clusters. This finding sheds light on the structural organization of the brain and may help solve the mystery of cortical columns' function.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 27, 2025

Unraveling the origin of extremely bright quantum emitters

A multi-institutional research team from Osaka University has discovered the origin of extremely bright color centers at an oxide/semiconductor interface. The study reveals a correlation between the luminescence of color centers and the density of electron traps, suggesting a specific carbon-related defect as the most promising candidate.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAPL Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

High-power-efficiency and ultra-long-lifetime white OLEDs empowered by robust blue multi-resonance TADF emitters

Researchers developed high-efficiency white OLEDs using robust blue MR-TADF emitters, achieving a maximum external quantum efficiency of 34.4% and a power efficiency of 101.8 lm/W. The devices demonstrated stable white light emission and long-lasting applications with a luminance lifetime of 761 hours.

Study proposes a new theoretical framework for understanding complex higher-order networks

The study proposes a new framework for understanding complex higher-order networks, which could lead to breakthroughs in physics, neuroscience, computer science, and more. The framework integrates discrete topology and non-linear dynamics, offering insights into how topology shapes dynamics and evolves dynamically.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2025

Professional artists viewed as more creative than AI programs

A recent study by the American Psychological Association suggests that professional artists are more creative than AI-generated artwork. The research found that artwork created with prompts by experienced artists was rated as significantly more creative than AI-generated work. Additionally, analysis revealed that professional artists u...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology of Aesthetics Creativity and the Arts·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

Influenza vaccine offers moderate protection against influenza A virus strains dominant in most European countries during the 2024/2024 season, according to early estimates

The influenza vaccine provided moderate protection against influenza A strains, but strong protection against influenza B. The vaccine was most effective in preventing severe disease among children and adolescents, with a high effectiveness rate.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 2025

Studying locusts in virtual reality challenges models of collective behavior

A recent VR study on locusts' navigation challenges classical models of collective swarming behavior, revealing internal cognitive decision-making processes. The findings suggest that locusts do not follow fixed interaction rules as previously thought, but instead respond to their sensory environment with probabilistic decision-making.

Prevalence and control of diabetes among US adults

The study found that the prevalence of adults with diabetes did not significantly change between 2013 and 2023. However, glycemic control among those with diagnosed disease worsened, particularly among young adults. This trend is concerning due to its potential impact on lifetime risk of cardiovascular events.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 27, 2025

Improving relationships between dads and daughters... it's a walk in the park

A new study by Dr John Day of the University of Essex found that physical activity provides a common ground for fathers and daughters to develop deep emotional connections. The research discovered that societal shifts in what it means to be a dad, combined with increased focus on exercise, have led to this transformation.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalFamilies Relationships and Societies·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2025

Scientists discover key protein in resilience to stress

A study published in Nature Neuroscience found that overexpressing cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) in astrocytes promotes resilience to chronic social stress by reducing anxiety levels and depressive symptoms. The researchers also discovered an association between CB1 receptors and depressive symptoms in human brains.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

EU Flagship project DORIAN GRAY to use pioneering AI and avatar technology to uncover links between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to improve healthy ageing and survival

The project aims to uncover mechanisms bridging MCI and CVD, developing an integrated approach to promote resilience and improve overall health in the ageing population. It will use real-world data, AI, and clinical variables to enable risk stratification and personalised treatment.

A study led by the CIBEREHD group at Hospital Germans Trias demonstrates for the first time how to reduce the number of colonoscopies and improve the follow-up of patients with Crohn’s disease

A new study led by the CIBEREHD group at Hospital Germans Trias demonstrates a significant improvement in monitoring and treatment of Crohn's disease patients. By analyzing calprotectin levels, patients can avoid unnecessary repeat colonoscopies.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalDigestive and Liver Disease·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2025

New hypothesis sheds light on global forest biodiversity maintenance

Researchers propose a new biological hypothesis that combines tree dispersal modes and mycorrhizal types to explain the latitudinal variation in forest biodiversity. Advanced spatial analysis techniques reveal a negative aggregation–abundance relationship, stronger in temperate forests, which is linked to animal seed dispersal and myco...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

Conjugated phthalocyanine framework-based artificial SEI for high-voltage lithium metal battery

Researchers developed a conjugated phthalocyanine framework with enhanced electron-withdrawal properties and flexibility, leading to improved capacities, rate capabilities, and cyclic stability in high-voltage lithium metal batteries. The framework also showed longer operating life and higher capacity retention.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

New combination treatment strategy dramatically increases cell death in leukemia

Researchers at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified an innovative combination treatment strategy that collaborates to kill AML cells. The new approach targets the SRC gene and MCL-1 protein, leading to increased cell death in leukemia cells. This discovery offers a promising new direction for leukemia treatment.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 27, 2025

Soft actuators, smart sensors: Innovative sensor allows real-time monitoring of complex systems

The Dielectric Elastomer Sensor (DES) offers real-time pressure and vibration monitoring in soft fluidic actuators, ideal for robotics and biomedical devices. The sensor's flexibility and ability to withstand large deformations make it suitable for applications in automobile designing and structural health monitoring.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalMeasurement·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

Flexible COF-based porous liquid with “breathing effect”for enhancing CO2 adsorption and catalysis

Researchers have developed a COF-based porous liquid that can dynamically adjust its pore size in response to pressure change, significantly enhancing CO2 capture and catalytic conversion. This innovative material boasts a 24-fold higher efficiency for the reaction of CO₂ with propylene oxide compared to conventional methods.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

ACC, AHA issue new acute coronary syndromes guideline

The 2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes focuses on managing unstable angina and myocardial infarction, with recommendations on dual antiplatelet therapy and percutaneous coronary intervention. The guideline also emphasizes the importance of prompt revascularization and se...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 27, 2025

Unraveling how a 'magnetic twist' induces one-way electric flow

Scientists at Tohoku University and collaborators have made a significant discovery about how magnetic twist induces one-way electric flow in a unique quantum material. By studying the material's electronic behavior, they found that the 'magnetic twist' directly triggers electronic band asymmetry, leading to nonreciprocal transport.

SourceTohoku University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2025