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Science News Archive February 2025 - Page 29


Page 29 of 44

BrainHealth Week 2025 celebrates the potential of our brains to get stronger

The Center for BrainHealth hosts its third annual BrainHealth Week, offering simple tools and effective measurements for proactively increasing brain fitness and performance. A recent national survey reveals that 75% of people do not know how to promote brain gains, which BrainHealth Week aims to address.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·TypeNews article·DateFeb 12, 2025

New blood test accurately predicts preeclampsia

A new blood test using cell-free DNA from the placenta during pregnancy can predict preterm preeclampsia with 80% accuracy. The test's development is a significant breakthrough in prenatal care, potentially improving treatment outcomes for high-risk pregnancies.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeCase study·DateFeb 12, 2025
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Biohybrid hand gestures with human muscles

Researchers at the University of Tokyo developed a biohybrid hand that can move objects and mimic real-life forms, using multiple muscle tissue actuators created from lab-grown muscle tissue. The hand demonstrated its ability to perform complex gestures, including scissor motions, and showed signs of fatigue but recovered within an hour.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Ovarian cancer discovery could turn failed treatment into lifesaver

Researchers found that flagellin from the gut disrupts immune checkpoint treatment in ovarian cancer patients. Inhibiting this pathway may enhance clinical outcomes and save lives. The discovery could lead to novel therapies capable of targeting ovarian tumors.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateFeb 12, 2025

Adults can learn absolute pitch: new research challenges long-held musical belief

Researchers from the University of Surrey have demonstrated that adults can acquire absolute pitch through targeted training. In an eight-week online program, participants made significant progress in identifying musical pitches with high accuracy. The study's findings provide new insights into musical cognition and learning.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateFeb 12, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Symbiotic bacteria ride along with marine cells in ocean’s upper layer

Researchers discovered symbiotic bacteria accompanying single-celled protists in the ocean's upper layer. The bacteria, including close relatives of pathogenic species like Coxiella and Rickettsia, may aid or harm their protist hosts, depending on context.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Data-driven networks influence convective-scale ensemble weather forecasts

Researchers investigated the impact of AI weather models' lateral boundary conditions on convective-scale ensemble forecasts, finding comparable performance to traditional models. Reducing the vertical resolution of these conditions led to inferior forecast results.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateFeb 12, 2025

Holograms boost 3D printing efficiency and resolution

Researchers have developed a holographic method for volumetric additive manufacturing that significantly reduces energy required and boosts resolution. The technique involves projecting three-dimensional holograms onto spinning resin vials, resulting in high-fidelity 3D-printed objects with exceptional accuracy.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Brown astronomers create new technique to eliminate signals disrupting sensitive radio telescopes

Astronomers at Brown University have created a new method to pinpoint and filter out unwanted radio frequencies, crucial for preserving high-quality observations in the face of increasing satellite activity. By combining near-field corrections and beamforming techniques, researchers successfully tracked an airplane transmitting a telev...

SourceBrown University·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Australia·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Exotic observations with neutrons at the ILL

The study reveals three distinct phases: liquid, solid, and plastic ice, with the latter exhibiting picosecond rotational motion. The implementation of state-of-the-art spectrometers and sample environments enabled the first experimental observation of plastic ice VII at high temperatures and pressures.

SourceInstitut Laue-Langevin·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Scientists develop novel self-healing electronic skin for health monitoring

Researchers have created a novel self-healing electronic skin that repairs itself in seconds, surpassing existing technologies by up to 80%. This technology integrates artificial intelligence and offers real-time fatigue detection and muscle strength assessment with remarkable precision.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Chinese scientists find key genes to fight against crop parasites

Researchers have identified two ABCG family SL transporter genes, SbSLT1 and SbSLT2, responsible for sorghum's resistance to Striga. Knocking out these genes inhibits SL secretion, preventing Striga germination and infestation. This breakthrough has wide-ranging applications in enhancing parasitic plant resistance across various crops.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 12, 2025
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Mothers with incarcerated children shoulder emotional and financial burdens

New research reveals that mothers of formerly incarcerated children experience significant financial strain, especially for Black mothers whose starting wealth is already lower. This study highlights the urgent need for policy reforms to address the social and economic impacts of incarceration on families.

SourceRice University·JournalDemography·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 12, 2025

Could peripheral neuropathy be stopped before it starts?

Macrophages may help prevent peripheral neuropathy by slowing its onset and reducing damage. Researchers discovered that these immune cells produce chemokines to recruit other macrophages, which protect against sensory axon loss.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature·DateFeb 12, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Gene variant could protect against ultra-rare seizure disorder, fruit fly research finds

Researchers at the University of Utah Health have identified a gene variant called CNTN2 that may protect against PIGA-CDG, an ultra-rare genetic disease causing seizures and developmental delays. This finding could lead to better therapies for PIGA-CDG by targeting multiple genes involved in symptom severity.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

How California’s Prop. 65 changed how (some) products are made

Proposition 65 has prompted companies to reformulate products to remove harmful chemicals, reducing exposure and potential lawsuits. However, the list of covered chemicals is not exhaustive, leading some manufacturers to replace them with unlisted alternatives.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 12, 2025
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Research Spotlight: Formulation matters when it comes to benzoyl peroxide

Researchers re-analyzed data for 111 products and found significant associations between production process, ingredient composition, and benzene levels. The study suggests opportunities to improve formulation, production, and distribution of benzoyl peroxide containing products to reduce the likelihood of them degrading into benzene.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateFeb 12, 2025

Consumer stress over grocery prices stands at midpoint

The average grocery price stress level rating is 5.1, with low- and middle-income households reporting higher stress levels. Most consumers believe the government has moderate influence over food prices, with 80% familiar with the tariffs concept.

SourcePurdue University·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 12, 2025

Pennington Biomedical researchers assemble comprehensive history of electronic health records and their role in medical research

A comprehensive review explores the evolution and application of electronic health records (EHRs) in medical research over the past 25 years. The study highlights significant advancements in data analysis, artificial intelligence, and precision medicine, while also discussing challenges such as data security and privacy.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 12, 2025

Study examines grief of zoo employees and volunteers across the US after animal losses

A recent study by researchers from Colorado State University and Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance found that poor grief support in some US zoos leaves staff feeling limited empathy from leadership, burned out, and unable to openly express their grief. The research emphasizes the importance of developing comprehensive grief-affirming po...

SourceCABI·JournalHuman-Animal Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Arctic cyclones could be missing link in sea ice depletion models

A new study published in Nature Communications Earth and Environment finds that Arctic cyclones may contribute to the underpredicted decline of sea ice extent. The research suggests two theories: turbulent seas breaking up larger ice floes and upwelling increasing temperatures that help melt younger, thinner ice.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 2025

ChatGPT has the potential to improve psychotherapeutic processes

A study published in PLOS Mental Health found that ChatGPT's responses were generally rated higher than those written by therapists, particularly in terms of core psychotherapy guiding principles. The AI model was also found to contextualize more extensively, leading respondents to rate its responses higher on common therapy components.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Mental Health·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Global warming and mass extinctions: What we can learn from plants from the last ice age

Researchers used ancient plant DNA to study the impact of global warming on plant diversity and interactions. They found that temperature changes led to fundamental shifts in ecological conditions, with some plant species supporting each other during cold periods.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 2025
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Ozempic shows promise in reducing cravings for alcohol, heavy drinking

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial confirms that Ozempic reduces alcohol craving, drinking quantity and the frequency of heavy drinking days. The study found that nearly 40% of people treated with semaglutide reported no heavy drinking days in the last month of treatment.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 12, 2025

Nighthawks: Wild medaka actively court female fish in wee hours

A team of researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University observed wild medaka behavior in their river habitat, discovering that they spawn around midnight. The study also found that males exhibit two types of courtship behaviors: chasing females and a display of making quick circles in front of the opposite sex.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Researchers control metal microstructure for better 3D printing

Cornell researchers discover way to control metal solidification transformations by adjusting alloy composition, leading to improved strength and reliability of printed metal parts. The method involves disrupting column-like grain growth, significantly reducing grain size and improving yield strength.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 2025

Mpox: a better understanding of tecovirimat resistance

Researchers at the Institut Pasteur have gained a better understanding of how mpox variants become resistant to tecovirimat. They found that the drug works by binding two phospholipases together, preventing viral particles from spreading. This knowledge will help develop new antiviral treatments effective across all mpox strains.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New insights into the structure of atomic nuclei

Researchers measured high-precision transition frequencies and isotope mass ratios in ytterbium isotopes to confirm a nonlinearity anomaly. The team established a new limit for the existence of dark forces and gained insights into atomic nucleus deformation, opening doors for collaboration in physics research.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Extensive study on telemedicine for diabetes and coronary heart disease – Senior author concludes: "The hype around medical apps needs to be put into perspective"

A large study found that telemedicine and training apps had minimal positive effects on patients with type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. The study suggests that direct care from medical professionals remains crucial for improving health outcomes in this population.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 12, 2025

Type 1 diabetes: Hybrid closed-loop and open-loop systems compared

A study comparing hybrid closed-loop and open-loop systems in young people with type 1 diabetes found that hybrid closed-loop systems offered improved long-term blood sugar values, a lower risk of hypoglycemic coma, but a higher rate of diabetic ketoacidosis. The results suggest that hybrid closed-loop therapies may be beneficial for i...

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with alcohol use disorder

Researchers found that low-dose semaglutide can reduce craving and some drinking outcomes in adults with alcohol use disorder, providing initial prospective evidence for its potential as a treatment. Larger clinical trials are needed to fully evaluate the efficacy of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) for this condition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 12, 2025
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

New research finds that certain packaging materials can show 70% lower emissions than alternatives

Researchers at Michigan State University found that polyethylene (PE) packaging can have an average life cycle global warming potential savings of approximately 70% compared to commonly used packaging materials. This is due to PE's lower fossil resource use, GWP, water scarcity and mineral resource use in most applications.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateFeb 12, 2025

Research spotlight: Mapping lesions that cause psychosis to a human brain circuit and proposed stimulation target

Studies identified 153 cases of psychosis caused by brain lesions, which connected to a common circuit in the hippocampus. The circuit, including the rostromedial prefrontal cortex, is a promising target for transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy, potentially improving symptoms in patients with schizophrenia.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 12, 2025

Meet the newly discovered brain cell that allows you to remember objects

Researchers at University of British Columbia discovered a new brain cell type called 'ovoid cells' that play a central role in remembering and recognizing objects. These highly-specialized neurons activate when encountering something new, triggering the process to store objects in memory.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Ukraine war forces planes to take longer routes, raising CO2

The Ukraine war led to a significant increase in global aviation carbon dioxide emissions due to planes taking longer routes around Russian airspace. On average, flights used 13% more fuel, with the impact being greatest for Europe-Asia and North America-Asia flights.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateFeb 12, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Antarctica’s only native insect’s unique survival mechanism

The Antarctic midge employs a unique survival mechanism by undergoing quiescence in its first year and obligate diapause in its second. This adaptation allows the insect to quickly resume development when temperatures rise.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Negative refraction of light using atoms instead of metamaterials

Researchers at Lancaster University have successfully demonstrated negative refraction using atomic arrays, eliminating the need for metamaterials. This achievement paves the way for novel technologies based on negative refraction, including perfect lenses and cloaking devices.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Splicing twins: unravelling the secrets of the minor spliceosome complex

Researchers in the Galej Group at EMBL Grenoble have provided new structural insights into the U11 snRNP subunit of the minor spliceosome, revealing its ability to specifically identify rare substrates. The study sheds light on the complex assembly pathway of the minor spliceosome, which is critical for processing minor introns in genes.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

How Earth's early cycles shaped the chemistry of life

A new study explores how chemical mixtures transform under shifting environmental conditions, shedding light on prebiotic processes that may have led to life. The research finds that environmental factors played a key role in shaping the molecular complexity needed for life to emerge.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Engineered animals show new way to fight mercury pollution

Australian scientists engineer fish and flies to break down toxic methylmercury into a less harmful gas, offering a new solution to environmental pollution. The research could lead to the creation of wildlife that protects both human health and the environment.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Worm surface chemistry reveals secrets to their development and survival

A new study reveals that nematode surfaces are predominantly oily or lipid-based, forming a complex chemical landscape. This discovery provides insights into how animals interact with their environment and each other, and could lead to strategies for overcoming parasitic infections and diseases caused by these worms.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJACS·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 12, 2025

Overcoming nicotine withdrawal: Clues found in neural mechanisms of the brain

Researchers have identified striatal cholinergic interneurons as key players in nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Administering a single dose of an FDA-approved Parkinson's disease drug, Procyclidine, significantly alleviated tremors caused by nicotine withdrawal. This study suggests a promising new treatment option for smoking cessation.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·DateFeb 12, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Research spotlight: Projecting the impact of funding cuts to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)

A study projects the impact of PEPFAR funding cuts on South Africa, finding that eliminating funding would lead to significant increases in HIV infections and related deaths. The analysis highlights the devastating consequences of abrupt funding cuts, including a $1.7 billion increase in healthcare expenditure.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 11, 2025