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Science News for January 15, 2025


Graphene made permeable for ions

Researchers have created a model system with a defect in graphene that allows certain ions to pass through, including chloride. This breakthrough has significant implications for water filtration membranes, artificial receptors, and chloride channels.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Researchers from Pennington Biomedical serve on global commission on clinical obesity that goes beyond BMI in defining obesity as a disease

The Lancet Commission on Clinical Obesity proposes a new model for diagnosing clinical obesity based on objective measures of illness at the individual level. The proposal aims to settle the ongoing dispute around the idea of obesity as a disease, providing a medically coherent framework for diagnosis.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJan 15, 2025

New Chapman University study finds relatively low rates of substitution for America's favorite types of seafood

A recent Chapman University study found that only 13.9% of seafood products were substituted with a different species, suggesting that popular seafood choices like salmon and shrimp are relatively safe from mislabeling. The study highlights the need for better consumer education and compliance with FDA seafood labeling standards.

SourceChapman University·JournalFood Control·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 15, 2025

Cambridge leads first phase of governmental project to understand impact of smartphones and social media on young people

A new research project led by Cambridge will review existing studies on the impact of smartphones and social media on children's mental health and wellbeing. The team aims to provide policymakers with high-quality insights to inform future action, considering factors such as online habits, emerging technologies, and vulnerable groups.

AI–guided lung ultrasound by nonexperts

A multicenter study shows trained health professionals with AI assistance can meet diagnostic standards for lung ultrasounds. This technology has the potential to increase access to lung ultrasound in areas without expert personnel.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJan 15, 2025

A new geometric machine learning method promises to accelerate precision drug development

Researchers have developed a new geometric machine learning method called MaSIF, which enables the design of proteins that bind specifically to desired molecular structures. This approach accelerates precision drug development by allowing for precise dosing and control of biological drugs.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 15, 2025

New study finds that critical ocean current has not declined in the last 60 years Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) helps to regulate the Earth’s climate and weather

A recent study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientists found that the AMOC has not declined in the last 60 years, contrary to previous predictions. The research used climate models and reanalysis data to reconstruct the AMOC's past behavior, indicating a more stable system than expected.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2025

Large-scale TMIST breast cancer screening trial achieves enrollment goal, paving the way for data that provides a precision approach to screeninge

The Tomosynthesis Mammographic Imaging Screening Trial (TMIST) has successfully enrolled over 108,000 women worldwide for a randomized controlled trial comparing 2D and 3D mammography. The study aims to determine whether 3D mammography is more effective in reducing advanced breast cancer risk.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 15, 2025

Synthesizing polymers with an unprecedented structure

Researchers at Ehime University have developed a novel polymer synthesis method utilizing diazocarbonyl compounds, resulting in polymers with improved physical properties and functionalities. The new method enables the creation of high molecular weight polymers with controlled stereo-structure and incorporation of functional groups.

SourceEhime University·JournalPolymer Journal·DateJan 15, 2025

Researchers from Incheon National University advanced adaptive traffic monitoring with smart cameras

The researchers developed a novel camera-based system that adapts to traffic flow in real-time, ensuring efficient monitoring and resource use. The system's two approaches, the Random-Value-Camera-Level Algorithm and the ALL-Random-With-Weight Algorithm, optimize camera usage and save energy while maintaining reliable surveillance.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Insight into link between lysosomal activities and focal adhesions and implications for cancer research

Researchers uncover the relationship between lysosomal exocytosis and focal adhesions, structures critical for cell anchoring and communication. The study identifies MYO18B as a key regulator of lysosomal exocytosis through focal adhesion maturation.

Researchers make comfortable materials that generate power when worn

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed wearable technologies that both generate electricity from human movement and improve comfort. They used amphiphiles to create slippery surfaces on fabrics, reducing friction while allowing electrons to be donated, resulting in a material capable of generating up to 300 volts.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Study shows connection between childhood maltreatment and disease in later life

A recent study published in Helion found that individuals who experienced childhood abuse, neglect, or domestic abuse were at a significantly higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. The study used a database of over 16 million Electronic Health Records to analyze the incidence rates of these diseases over a 26-yea...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2025

Monitoring tumor-informed circulating tumor DNA after CGP

Researchers developed a system to monitor tumor-informed circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) after comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP), enabling accurate prediction of patient outcomes. The study showed that this approach can be effectively used in conjunction with CGP data to predict cancer relapse and treatment response, improving person...

SourceTohoku University·JournalCancer Science·DateJan 15, 2025

Ultrasound-directed microbubbles could boost immune response against tumours, new Concordia research suggests

Concordia researchers propose a novel method using ultrasound-guided microbubbles to stimulate critical cytokine secretion in T cells, potentially re-activating them and increasing the release of proteins needed to fight cancer. The approach could complement existing treatments and improve outcomes.

SourceConcordia University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Simon Fraser University awarded $22.9 million to lead National Invention to Innovation (I2I) network expansion

Simon Fraser University has received a $23 million grant to expand its Invention to Innovation (i2I) programs, providing bilingual innovation and entrepreneurship training for graduate students, researchers, and faculty. The program aims to bridge the gap between invention and innovation, equipping researchers with skills to thrive as ...

Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative launches innovative brain health navigator program for intuitive coordination between patients and providers

The Brain Health Navigator program aims to provide resources for patients and providers at six US sites, promoting intuitive care navigation. The initiative supports healthcare providers across multiple settings, including frontline interactions and diagnosis, with educational components on brain health and post-diagnostic care.

SourceDavos Alzheimer's Collaborative·TypeNews article·DateJan 15, 2025

SeoulTech researchers propose a novel method to shed light on PFOS-induced neurotoxicity

The study proposes a novel approach for simultaneous extraction of metabolites and lipids from zebrafish embryos to shed light on PFOS-induced neurotoxicity. The researchers found that sphingolipids are a reliable biomarker of PFOS-induced neurotoxicity, and the method can be expanded to various biomolecules.

SourceSeoul National University of Science & Technology·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

New insights into the biology and risk factors of childhood obesity

A cutting-edge molecular approach identifies three distinct clusters of children with metabolic complications, highlighting the importance of prenatal environment and exposure to industrial chemicals. The study provides a better understanding of biological pathways involved in metabolic health, beyond traditional clinical markers.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2025

DECam and Gemini South discover three tiny ‘stellar-ghost-town’ galaxies

Researchers have discovered three tiny ultra-faint dwarf galaxies, dubbed 'stellar-ghost-town' galaxies, with minimal gas and old stars. This suggests that their star formation was cut off early in the universe's history due to insufficient gravity or events like reionization or supernovae explosions.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 15, 2025

Biorefinery innovation: Transforming waste into high-value products

A new study showcases a cutting-edge biorefinery that converts sewage sludge and food waste into valuable volatile fatty acids. The biorefinery's dual benefits include efficient waste management and reduced fossil fuel dependency, with potential environmental improvements through location optimization and alternative chemical use.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2025

MRI scanning and biopsy could reduce delays in the correct treatment for bladder cancer by more than six weeks

A new trial has found that patients with suspected invasive bladder cancer treated with initial MRI imaging and biopsy are faster than those assessed with TURBT alone. The BladderPath trial showed a median time of 53 days from referral to correct treatment, compared to 98 days for usual care.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 15, 2025

Revolutionary biofilter offers breakthrough solution for emerging contaminants in wastewater

Researchers unveiled an innovative system that outperforms conventional filtration methods by combining microbial electrochemical technologies with enhanced biodegradation processes. The biofilter demonstrates significant removal of pharmaceuticals and herbicides, altering their chirality to influence toxicity and biodegradability.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Researchers reveal quantum advantage of quantum dots for spin chemistry of radical pairs

Researchers discovered a quantum advantage of colloidal quantum dots in spin chemistry of radical pairs. The hybrid radical pairs exhibit large Δg values, allowing for direct observation of spin quantum beats and magnetic field control. This study has the potential to enable novel quantum information technologies.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 15, 2025

Breakthrough bioprocess turns CO2 and electricity into high-protein food

Researchers have developed a novel bioprocess that transforms carbon dioxide and electricity into single-cell protein, surpassing traditional sources like fish and soybean meal. The process produces a nutrient-rich food source with essential amino acids, offering a promising solution to global food security and climate challenges.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

A ‘smoke-free generation’ in Canada? New analysis says it would result in vast health gains, healthcare cost savings

A new analysis suggests that implementing a lifetime ban on tobacco products for individuals born after 2009 would result in vast health benefits and healthcare cost savings. The study estimates $2.3 billion less in healthcare costs and 476,814 more quality-adjusted life years for Canadians over a 50-year timespan.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalHealth Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2025

Songbirds socialize on the wing during migration, new study says

Researchers have found evidence of songbirds forming social connections and potentially exchanging information about their migration routes through vocalizations. The study suggests that social cues play a significant role in shaping migration behaviors, particularly for young birds learning from observing other birds.

Trastuzumab emtansine improves long-term survival in HER2 breast cancer

The phase 3 KATHERINE clinical trial found trastuzumab emtansine to be an effective adjuvant treatment for high-risk HER2-positive breast cancer patients, reducing the risk of death or invasive disease by 46% and improving survival. The study showed consistent benefits across patient subgroups, supporting T-DM1 as a new standard of care.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 15, 2025

Wear-resistant metal-organic framework membrane developed with bioinspired scale-like structure for efficient separation of propylene and propane

Researchers developed a bioinspired MOF membrane with a scale-like structure to separate propylene from propane. The membrane achieved excellent separation performance, exceeding 220, and retained its stability for over 1,000 hours.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 15, 2025

The gold standard of a randomized controlled study among NYC girls indicates that a book on puberty can lead to significant gains in knowledge and positive health outcomes

A randomized controlled study among NYC girls found that reading a book on puberty can lead to increased knowledge and positive attitudes towards physical activity during periods. The study, published in BMC Public Health, suggests that targeted puberty education can have significant impacts on young girls' health outcomes.

Study finding Xenon gas could protect against Alzheimer’s disease leads to start of clinical trial

A study from Mass General Brigham and Washington University School of Medicine found that Xenon gas inhalation reduced brain atrophy, neuroinflammation, and improved nest-building behaviors in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. The treatment also induced a protective microglial response associated with clearing amyloid and improving ...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2025

COVID-19 infection associated with nearly eightfold increase in chronic fatigue syndrome

A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that COVID-19 infection significantly increases the rate of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) among COVID-19 survivors. Nearly eight times more people with ME/CFS were infected with SARS-CoV-2 than those without, according to the research.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2025

Neural partially linear additive model

A new research proposes a Neural Partially Linear Additive Model (NPLAM) to address machine learning's two main interpretability problems. The model combines neural networks and partially linear additive models, enabling automatic distinction between insignificant, linear, and nonlinear features.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Diversified cropping systems boost nitrogen supply but not soil carbon, study finds

A new study has found that diversified cropping systems can increase nitrogen supply in the soil, but do not lead to increased soil carbon levels. The study, published in Nature Sustainability, used stable carbon isotopes to analyze soil core emissions and found that decomposition rates were higher in longer rotations.

SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Land ahoy! — Experiments at GSI/FAIR reveal the shoreline of the island of stability of superheavy elements

Researchers at GSI/FAIR discovered the shortest-lived superheavy nucleus, Rf-252, marking the position of the island's shoreline in nuclei of rutherfordium. The results confirm theoretical predictions and enable further exploration of phenomena associated with isomer states and inverted fission stability.

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

DARPA-ABC program supports Wyss Institute-led collaboration toward deeper understanding of anesthesia and safe drugs enabling anesthesia without the need for extensive monitoring

A multidisciplinary team led by the Wyss Institute aims to create novel anesthesia-inducing drugs that can safely induce an anesthesia-like state without compromising vital functions. The project leverages expertise from Harvard's MCB, MIT, and Tufts University to develop safe battlefield-ready anesthetics.

Indigenous students face cumbersome barriers to attaining post-secondary education

A study by the University of Toronto found that Indigenous university students struggle with funding, affordable housing, and childcare, leading to feelings of isolation and decreased sense of belonging. Resource centers, cultural events, and mentorship opportunities can help mitigate these barriers.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAlterNative An International Journal of Indigenous Peoples·TypeSurvey·DateJan 15, 2025

New policy significantly enhances water quality in the Yangtze river basin

A recent study demonstrates the effectiveness of a new environmental policy, known as the Resident Work (RW) policy, in improving water quality in the Yangtze River Basin. The policy, launched in 2018, involved deploying scientific experts to cities across the region, resulting in significant reductions in total phosphorus concentration.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2025

Not all Hot Jupiters orbit solo

A UNIGE study has overturned the assumption that Hot Jupiters orbit alone, discovering a unique multi-planetary system with an inner Super-Earth and an outer massive giant planet. The WASP-132 system's unexpected architecture raises new questions about planet formation and evolution.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeNews article·DateJan 15, 2025

Coyote genes may show urban evolution at work

A new study explores how city life is influencing the evolution of urban coyotes, revealing genetic changes related to diet, health, thermoregulation, behavior, cognition, and reproduction. The research also highlights the challenges of studying urban coyotes, which are increasingly common in urban areas throughout the US.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateJan 15, 2025

A common antihistamine shows promise in treating liver complications of a rare disease complication

A study found that chlorcyclizine, a decades-old allergy medication, could potentially treat erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a condition creating extreme skin light sensitivity and toxic liver buildup. Chlorcyclizine may work by helping the liver clear toxic porphyrin buildup and reducing inflammation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

How crickets co-exist with hostile ant hosts

Researchers at Nagoya University discovered how parasitic crickets, such as Myrmecophilus tetramorii, navigate life among potentially lethal hosts through precise evasion tactics. By employing two behavioral strategies, 'distancing' and 'dodging', crickets reduce the risk of being attacked by ants.

SourceNagoya University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 15, 2025

AI helps to identify subjective cognitive decline during the menopause transition

A new study uses machine learning models to identify women experiencing severe subjective cognitive decline during the menopause transition, associated with aging, hypertension, obesity, and depression. This predictive model allows for early intervention to protect cognitive health, a novel guidance for interventions designed to preser...

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2025

Study reveals how sex and racial disparities in weight loss surgery have changed over 20 years

A new study by Mass General Brigham investigators found that Black people were less likely than non-Black people to undergo metabolic and bariatric surgery, even though both groups were equally likely to discuss it with health care providers. Men were also less likely to discuss and receive MBS than women.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Surgery Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2025

How improving education could close maternal heart health gaps

A new Northwestern University study reveals that achieving equity in social drivers of health, particularly education, can nearly eliminate the gap in heart health between Black and white women. The study found that educational attainment had the largest impact on maternal cardiovascular health disparities. Improving access to healthy ...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·DateJan 15, 2025

High-resolution tumor marker detection based on microwave photonics demodulated dual wavelength fiber laser sensing system assists early screening of cancer

A novel dual-wavelength fiber laser biosensor system leveraging microwave photonics demodulation technology enables high-resolution tumor marker detection. The system exhibits higher sensitivity, resolution, and real-time detection accuracy compared to traditional methods, with a detection limit of 0.076 ng/mL.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateJan 15, 2025

Staying ahead of the next pandemic: Study identifies ventilation strategies to prevent super-spreader events aboard cruise ships

A new study from the University of Surrey identifies targeted ventilation strategies as crucial to preventing super-spreader events on cruise ships. The research found that improved air circulation in crowded areas can significantly reduce airborne infection transmission risk, with CO2 levels increasing in higher occupancy spaces.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateJan 15, 2025

Durham University researchers achieve world-leading quantum entanglement of molecules using magic-wavelength optical tweezers

Researchers at Durham University have successfully demonstrated long-lasting quantum entanglement between molecules, a key capability for next-generation quantum technology. The team achieved exceptionally high entanglement fidelity, reaching levels over 92%, enabling precision measurements in quantum sensing and simulating complex qua...

SourceDurham University·JournalNature·DateJan 15, 2025

Study published in NEJM Catalyst finds patients cared for by MedStar Health’s Safe Babies Safe Moms program have better outcomes in pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum

The MedStar Health D.C. Safe Babies Safe Moms program has been found to have better pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum outcomes for patients cared for by the program compared to those receiving prenatal care elsewhere. Additionally, the study shows a significant reduction in low birthweight babies and preterm births among Black patients

SourceMedStar Health Research Institute·JournalNEJM Catalyst·DateJan 15, 2025

China makes progress in carbon neutrality and clean air efforts, report finds

China has achieved significant progress in reducing PM2.5 concentrations by 35.6% since 2015, while also increasing non-fossil energy consumption to 17.5%. However, rising ozone levels and extreme weather events pose new challenges, emphasizing the need for adaptive measures and stricter air quality standards.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2025

New research helps eliminate dead zones in desalination technology and beyond

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new technique to eliminate fluid flow dead zones in electrodes used for battery-based seawater desalination. The tapered flow channel design improves fluid flow by two to three times, making it more efficient than current reverse osmosis methods.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalElectrochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Protective actions need regulatory support to fully defend homeowners and coastal communities, study finds

A recent study published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction found that US homeowners take proactive steps to protect their properties before and after hurricanes, but often fall short due to inadequate regulations. The study's methodology provides a framework for future research on incentivizing comprehensive prote...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeSurvey·DateJan 15, 2025

Chiral Exceptional point enhanced tuning and non-reciprocity in silicon microring

Researchers develop a nano-heater aligned to one arm of the micro-resonator for deterministic, dynamic tuning of chirality and precise phase-only control. This leads to enhanced electro-optic amplitude modulation in photonic integrated circuits, reducing energy consumption and simplifying circuit design.

New study reveals immune system changes linked to schizophrenia and treatment resistance

Researchers found significant differences in immune cell populations between healthy individuals and people with schizophrenia, with the CD4/CD8 ratio emerging as a potential biomarker for predicting treatment response. Lower levels of mucosal-associated invariant T cells may signify immune dysregulation in schizophrenia.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Revealing hidden genetic ties

A new bioinformatics pipeline analyzes whole-genome sequencing data to accurately estimate genetic relatedness in animal populations. The tool identifies identical DNA fragments inherited from a common ancestor, revealing previously undetected relatives and providing more detailed insights into relatedness structures.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2025

Explainable deep learning model provides new understanding of harmful algal blooms in china’s lakes and reservoirs

Researchers developed an explainable deep learning model to predict and analyze HABs in Chinese lakes and reservoirs, achieving significant improvement over conventional machine learning methods. The model identified water temperature as the most influential factor driving algal bloom dynamics.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

‘Perfect storm’ of mutations drives infection-triggered autoimmune disease

Researchers at Garvan Institute of Medical Research discovered how chronic hepatitis C infection leads to autoimmune disease by identifying 'rogue clone' B cells with harmful autoantibodies. The study found that a triad of genetic mutations is required for the autoimmune disease to develop, opening new paths for treatments.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Researchers identify three psychological profiles that could determine the evolution of mental, cognitive and brain health in ageing

The study found three psychological profiles associated with different patterns of cognitive and brain decline in ageing. A 'well-balanced' profile is linked to better cognitive and mental health, while low levels of protective characteristics are linked to poorer cognition and brain atrophy.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 15, 2025