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Science News for February 6, 2025


$20 million infusion for UT MBA programs

Mindy Hildebrand's $20 million gift will support a matching campaign to raise scholarship funds for incoming full-time MBA students, while enhancing leadership development opportunities across all five Texas McCombs MBA programs. The fund will also create personalized, targeted leadership experiences for students.

Halas awarded Benjamin Franklin Medal in Chemistry

Naomi Halas' work has pioneered new insights into how light and matter interact at the smallest scales, leading to discoveries in biomedical applications such as cancer therapy and water purification. Her research on plasmonic catalysts could dramatically reduce energy required for chemical reactions.

UCalgary researchers confirm best approach for stroke in medium-sized blood vessels

UCalgary researchers confirm that endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is not effective for patients with blockages in medium-sized blood vessels. The ESCAPE-MeVO clinical trial found no improvement in outcomes for these patients compared to standard care. EVT was previously shown to improve patient outcomes after large-vessel strokes.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 6, 2025

Study shows link between income inequality and health and education disparities may drive support for economic reform

New research highlights the connection between income inequality and health and education disparities, increasing support for economic reform. The study reveals that understanding these disparities can lead to a greater willingness to reduce inequality.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Researchers develop a device that replicates tumours to study the efficacy of immunotherapy treatments

The Micro Immune Response On chip (MIRO) replicates tumours and their environment, allowing researchers to study the efficacy of immunotherapy treatments. This technology has been tested with breast cancer samples and shows promise in understanding how the immune system interacts with tumours.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Ice streams move due to tiny ice quakes

Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered tiny ice quakes deep inside ice streams, explaining the discrepancy between simulations and satellite measurements. The findings impact sea-level rise estimates and may reveal fault planes in ice cores, providing a better understanding of ice stream deformation.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateFeb 6, 2025

Global “sisterhood” seeks to understand what makes a healthy vaginal microbiome

A global 'sisterhood' of citizen scientists sheds light on the complex vaginal microbiome, highlighting associations between microbial composition and clinical conditions like preterm birth and urinary tract infections. The study emphasizes the importance of considering whole complexity and continuity in vaginal microbiota composition ...

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 6, 2025

New agroforestry maps plot environmental, social, and economic benefits of trees

Researchers created a tool to target agroforestry where it provides the greatest environmental benefits while being economically viable, socially acceptable. The map identifies areas with high impacts on soil erosion, water quality, climate, and profitability for lands not suitable for other crops.

Food: Cracking the method for the ‘perfect’ boiled egg

A new method called periodic cooking optimally cooks both the yolk and white of a boiled egg, resulting in an evenly-cooked egg with higher nutritional content. The approach involves alternating the egg between boiling water and a cooler temperature, yielding soft yolks similar to sous vide eggs.

SourceSpringer·JournalCommunications Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Rethinking energy demand can foster sustainable development and reduce emissions from buildings and transport

A new study by IIASA scientists suggests that a mix of policy measures and behavioral changes can significantly reduce GHG emissions from energy use in buildings and transport. The strategies could reduce CO2 emissions from buildings by 51-85% and transport by 37-91% compared to current policies.

Air pollution impacts an aging society

A study by the University of Tokyo reveals that fine particulate pollution PM2.5 exacerbates pre-existing conditions in elderly populations, leading to higher hospitalization rates and premature mortality, with significant socioeconomic challenges for rural regions with limited medical resources.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2025

Building better biomaterials for cancer treatments

A Virginia Tech research team has made significant progress in understanding the role of physical properties in tuning the body's immune responses. By modifying biomaterials' size, shape, and stiffness, they aim to enhance immune cell behavior and stimulate antitumor immune responses.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 6, 2025

Unique quantum simulator opens door to new research

Physicists have built a new type of digital-analogue quantum simulator that can study physical processes with unprecedented precision and flexibility. The simulator combines both digital and analogue operating modes, enabling it to be applied to various problems in solid-state physics, astrophysics, and more.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 6, 2025

Optical control of phase and group velocities in everyday liquids

Scientists have discovered a way to turn ordinary liquids into epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) materials by interacting them with intense femtosecond laser pulses. This creates a new class of materials with tunable light propagation properties, opening up possibilities for advances in optical sensing and communication.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Scientist discovers 16 new grasshopper species, champions desert biodiversity

A Mississippi State University scientist has discovered 16 new species of grasshoppers living in the thorny scrubs of U.S. and Mexican deserts, showcasing the thriving biodiversity in arid ecosystems. The newly uncovered species are native to the southern U.S. and Mexican deserts and were described in a recent scientific journal article.

SourceMississippi State University·JournalZooKeys·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2025

KAIST discovers molecular switch that reverses cancerous transformation at the critical moment of transition​

Researchers at KAIST have discovered a molecular switch that can induce cancer reversal by capturing the moment of critical transition before normal cells become irreversibly cancerous. The technology uses single-cell RNA sequencing data and computer simulation analysis to identify the molecular switch.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 6, 2025

Entanglement inside proton ‘X-rayed’ with quantum information tools

A team of physicists has successfully described the inside of a proton using quantum information tools, revealing maximal entanglement and predicting particle production. The new formalism correctly reproduces all available experimental data, providing insights into the complex interactions within protons.

Deciphering the regulatory programs of RNA binding proteins in rheumatoid arthritis through single-cell transcriptome analysis

A new study using single-cell transcriptome analysis investigated the expression and dysregulation of RNA-binding proteins in rheumatoid arthritis. The research found that RBP regulation differs between RA and osteoarthritis, with specific RBPs involved in alternative mRNA splicing and translational control.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Materia Medica·DateFeb 6, 2025

Korea University researchers analysis of income-related disparities in mortality among young adults with diabetes

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that young adults with Type 2 diabetes and low income have a significantly higher mortality risk compared to those with high income. The research team analyzed over 600,000 patients and found that patients under 40 with low income had a 2.88 times higher mortality risk.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2025

New study unveils dramatic global disparities in the progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals

A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals polarized global landscape and 'orphaned' SDG indicators affecting nations' trajectories toward sustainable development. The research provides insights into the progress and disparities of countries toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting areas where act...

SourceReichman University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2025

Gemini North teams up with LOFAR to reveal largest radio jet ever seen in the early universe

Scientists have discovered a distant, two-lobed radio jet that spans an astonishing 200,000 light-years at least, twice the width of the Milky Way. The team used a combination of telescopes to detect the jet and measure its properties, including the mass of the quasar producing it.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 6, 2025

Breakthrough in opto-magnetic technology: 5-fold increase in torque efficiency

Researchers at Tohoku University have achieved a significant advancement in opto-magnetic technology, observing an opto-magnetic torque approximately five times more efficient than in conventional magnets. This breakthrough enables the production of opto-magnetic effects with only one-fifth of the previous light intensity.

Tuning forks in space: A final pure "tone" may reveal interior of neutron stars

Researchers have discovered a strong connection between the long ringdown phase of post-merger gravitational waves and the properties of dense regions in neutron-star cores. Analyzing this phase can significantly reduce uncertainties in the equation of state at very high densities, shedding light on what neutron stars are made of.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 6, 2025

Why some heavy drinkers develop advanced liver disease, while others do not

A study by Keck Medicine of USC found that heavy drinkers with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a high waist circumference are more than twice as likely to develop advanced liver disease. The research highlights the importance of considering preexisting health issues when making decisions about alcohol consumption.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateFeb 6, 2025

New evidence on the association between endometriosis and traumatic and stressful experiences

A study of over 240,000 women found that those with endometriosis were more likely to report experiencing traumatic events, such as physical abuse or sexual assault. The research suggests that childhood and adult trauma may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis through mechanisms independent of genetic predisposition.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2025

uOttawa study unveils new insights into how neural stem cells are activated in the adult human brain

A University of Ottawa neuroscientist has led a Canadian research team to discover how neural stem cells integrate signals from different cell types and decode them. The study found that low daughter cell numbers trigger activation, while high numbers keep them in quiescence, offering new insights into cellular relationships and potent...

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 6, 2025

New impetus for female founders

The EXIST Women program aims to promote start-ups in the Rhine-Main region by supporting female founders. The program offers individual coaching, mentoring, and a strong network, as well as financial support of up to €3,000 per month. Participants benefit from workshops and coaching sessions that strengthen their entrepreneurial skills.

Dust storms and wind erosion cause $154 billion in damages annually, UTEP study shows

A new study estimates the societal costs of blowing dust and wind erosion at approximately $154 billion per year across the United States. Dust can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory illnesses, causing significant medical costs, while also damaging homes and landscaping, transportation systems, and agricultural productivity.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalNature Sustainability·DateFeb 6, 2025

Restoring predators, restoring ecosystems: Yellowstone wolves and other carnivores drive strong trophic cascade

A new study reveals the profound ecological effects of wolves in Yellowstone National Park, showcasing a remarkable 1,500% increase in willow crown volume along riparian zones. The research demonstrates the cascading effects predators can have on ecosystems, with significant impacts on herbivores and plants.

SourceConservation Biology Institute·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Some species of baleen whales avoid attracting killer whales by singing too low to be heard

Baleen whale species that flee from killer whales produce calls at deep frequencies undetectable to their predators, while others sing higher-frequency songs that are easily heard. This 'flight' vs 'fight' difference influences all aspects of baleen whale behavior, from migration patterns and communication to mating and feeding habits.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalMarine Mammal Science·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 6, 2025

Cancer diagnoses and deaths are declining in Appalachia but remain significantly higher compared to other US regions

Researchers found that cancer incidence and death rates are decreasing in Appalachia, but people in the region are more likely to be diagnosed with and die from cancer compared to other areas of the US. The disparities are attributed to limited access to care, historical occupational risks, and higher poverty rates.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2025

Understanding cell differentiation mechanisms through scEGOT

A new computational tool, scEGOT, has been developed to analyze single-cell dynamics across different cell types. The study focused on the induction process of human primordial germ cell-like cells from human pluripotent stem cells, revealing key transition points and genes regulating these processes.

SourceInstitute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University·JournalBMC Bioinformatics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2025

Scratching through the negative emotions

A study on six Japanese macaques reveals that bodily responses like self-scratching predict pessimistic judgment bias, but not vice versa. This suggests an evolutionary conserved system where monkeys address immediate needs through bodily responses before engaging in cognitive information processing.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Warding off superbugs with a pinch of turmeric

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a low-cost technology using curcumin to curb bacterial resistance. The study shows that photodynamic inactivation can trigger deleterious reactions within bacteria, killing them and reducing the number of antibiotic-resistant strains.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 6, 2025

Incheon National University develops advanced communication technology for faster, reliable 5G and 6G networks

Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a new AI-powered solution to improve high-speed users' connectivity in 5G and 6G networks. The method significantly reduces errors and improves data reliability by prioritizing key parameters such as angles and delays.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 6, 2025

Recycling the unrecyclable

Researchers have developed a novel solid catalyst to efficiently reclaim materials from epoxy products, including carbon fibers and glass fibers. The process uses lower temperatures than traditional methods, reducing energy requirements and making the recovery of materials more environmentally friendly.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2025

How life's building blocks took shape on early Earth: the limits of membraneless polyester protocell formation

A recent study found that polyester microdroplets can form in salt-rich environments, at low alpha-hydroxy acid concentrations, and in small reaction volumes. This expands on previous research and suggests that polyester protocells were likely more common on early Earth than previously thought.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalACS Bio & Med Chem Au·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Air pollution clouds the mind and makes everyday tasks challenging

Research reveals that even short-term exposure to high levels of particulate matter air pollution impairs cognitive functions such as selective attention and emotion recognition. This study highlights the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health measures to combat the harmful effects of pollution on brain health.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2025

Uncovering how developmental genes are held in a poised state

Scientists have discovered a key mechanism that holds genes in a poised state, enabling proper cell type specialization. The study identified the protein interactors responsible for reading bivalent marks and regulating gene expression, shedding light on developmental biology and regenerative medicine approaches.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Warning signs may not be effective to deter cannabis use in pregnancy: Study

A new study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs suggests that mandatory warning signs at cannabis dispensaries may not be effective in deterring pregnant users. In fact, many participants reported distrust towards the content of the warnings, viewing them as stigmatizing or negative. The researchers interviewed 34 ...

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 6, 2025

Research unveils new strategies to tackle atrial fibrillation, a condition linked to stroke and dementia risks

A recent study explores the connection between chronic inflammation and arrhythmia development, identifying potential therapeutic targets for preventing and treating AF. The research team discovered that interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) triggers atrial fibrillation by activating its receptors on macrophages.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateFeb 6, 2025