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Science News Archive February 2025 - Page 20


Page 20 of 44

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