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Science News for January 2, 2025


How a single nitrogen atom could transform the future of drug discovery

A University of Oklahoma research team has developed a breakthrough method of adding a single nitrogen atom to bioactive molecules, transforming them into new pharmacophores. This process, called skeletal editing, could open up uncharted regions of chemical space in drug discovery, making existing drugs cheaper and more accessible.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Bereavement science researcher provides insights on parasocial grief

Preliminary research suggests that grieving a public figure's death can be similar to grieving a personal relationship, with intense emotions and lasting impact. Dr. Wendy Lichtenthal's work focuses on advancing bereavement science and 'meaning-centered' grief therapy for families and caregivers.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·DateJan 2, 2025

These bacteria perform a trick that could keep plants healthy

Researchers at Princeton University discovered that certain bacteria can reduce a plant's immune activity, allowing its roots to grow longer. The study identified an enzyme produced by one of these bacteria as the key factor in this process, which could have implications for understanding microbiome interactions with host immune systems.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Cancer-preventing topical immunotherapy trains the immune system to fight precancers

A new study by Mass General Brigham researchers reveals that a novel immunotherapy can eliminate precancerous spots and prevent skin cancer through the activation of specific immune cells. The therapy successfully cleared over 95% of facial lesions and showed long-term efficacy, with benefits lasting up to five years after treatment.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 2, 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.

What happens when some cells are more like Dad than Mom

Researchers discovered that some cells can inactivate one parent's copy of a gene, influencing disease outcomes. This phenomenon could help explain diseases with flares or those triggered by environmental factors.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJan 2, 2025

How good are AI doctors at medical conversations?

A new study evaluates AI's performance in real-world medical conversations and finds significant drops in diagnostic accuracy. Researchers designed a more realistic test called CRAFT-MD to assess the fitness of large-language models for use in clinics.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 2, 2025

Patients with heart disease may be at increased risk for advanced breast cancer

Research from the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center suggests that individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease are more likely to have advanced or metastatic breast cancer. The study found a 10% increased risk of CVD in patients with late-stage breast cancer compared to those with early-stage cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 2, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New method turns e-waste to gold

Researchers at Cornell University developed a method to extract gold from e-waste using vinyl-linked covalent organic frameworks (VCOFs), capturing 99.9% of the precious metal while minimizing other metals. This approach converts CO2 into useful chemicals, reducing waste disposal demands and providing environmental benefits.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 2, 2025

The nose knows: Nasal swab detects asthma type in kids

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh developed a non-invasive nasal swab test that diagnoses specific asthma subtype, or endotype, in children. The test, published in JAMA, shows promise for improving asthma treatment outcomes and paving the way for better treatments for lesser-studied asthma types.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA·DateJan 2, 2025

SNU Researchers develop a gripper to move multiple objects together, anticipating improved efficiency in logistics and manufacturing processes

The research team developed a gripper (MOGrip) that can transfer multiple objects simultaneously, reducing process time by 34% and travel distance by 71%. Inspired by human multi-object grasping strategy, MOGrip features in-hand translation capability and decoupling links for simplified control.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 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.

Ants vs. humans: Putting group smarts to the test

In a Weizmann Institute experiment, groups of ants demonstrated superior problem-solving skills compared to human groups and individuals. Humans struggled to improve performance when working together, relying on individual calculation rather than collective strategy.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 2, 2025

New resource available to help scientists better classify cancer subtypes

Researchers have developed a free, publicly accessible resource to aid in classification of patient tumor samples based on distinct molecular features identified by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Network. The resource comprises classifier models that can accelerate the design of cancer subtype-specific test kits for use in clinical tri...

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 2, 2025

Discovery links cellular structures to kidney cancer treatment outcomes

Researchers have discovered a correlation between patterns in cells of tumors and patient outcomes in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The study found two different patterns of nuclear speckles that may guide personalized therapies. Further research is needed to understand the implications of this discovery.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 2, 2025

Detecting disease with only a single molecule

Researchers have created a new circuit model that accounts for small changes to the sensor's behavior, allowing it to detect protein or DNA molecules from a sample. The device could lead to earlier diagnosis of diseases and more precise therapies tailored to each patient.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 2, 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.

Chung-Ang University researchers develop self-powered tactile sensors for robotics and wearables

Chung-Ang University researchers have developed self-powered tactile sensors for robotics and wearables by introducing novel manufacturing strategies for piezoelectric and triboelectric sensors. These advancements aim to create high-performance sensors capable of multi-modal sensing and real-time interaction.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 2, 2025

Building better infrared sensors

Researchers at Aalto University developed a new type of infrared photodiode that is 35% more responsive at 1.55 µm than existing germanium-based components. The new device can be manufactured using current production techniques, making it highly practical for adoption in various technologies.

SourceAalto University·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJan 2, 2025

A speckle of hope for cancer patients

A new study by Katherine Alexander and Shelley Berger has found a possible source of variability in cancer treatment response in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The researchers identified two distinct patterns of nuclear speckles in kidney tumors, which may correlate with patient outcomes.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 2, 2025

Dogs trained to sniff out spotted lanternflies could help reduce spread

A study found that dogs were more effective than humans at detecting egg masses of invasive spotted lanternflies in forested areas near vineyards. In contrast, people spotted the egg masses better in vineyards. The trained dogs had a higher detection rate in forests due to their sense of smell.

SourceCornell University·JournalEcosphere·DateJan 2, 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.

Robots can now walk through muddy and slippery terrain, thanks to Moose-like feet

Researchers at Tallinn University of Technology have developed bio-inspired feet that enhance robot mobility on challenging terrains like mud and wet snow. The modified robo-moose feet reduce sinkage and suction force by half, while also reducing energy consumption by up to 70%.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Too many men or too few women?—new study finds how the gender gap is framed affects perceptions of it

A new study from New York University found that framing the gender gap in terms of 'men's overrepresentation' instead of 'women's underrepresentation' elicits more anger among women and increases perceptions of injustice. This framing also prompts women to take action to address the issue.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Herpes virus might drive Alzheimer's pathology, study suggests

Researchers discovered a link between HSV-1 and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that viral infections play a role in the disease. The study also found that tau protein initially protects the brain from the virus but contributes to brain damage later.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 2, 2025

Artificial intelligence: Algorithms improve medical image analysis

Researchers from KIT developed AI algorithms that can detect tumors efficiently and precisely. The algorithms are based on deep learning methods and have been shown to excel in the autoPET competition. Further research is needed to improve the algorithms and make them more resistant to external influences.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateJan 2, 2025
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Big leap forward for environmentally friendly ‘e-textiles’ technology

A new study has developed a sustainable approach for fully inkjet-printed, eco-friendly e-textiles that are both biodegradable and durable. The researchers used a textile called Tencel and conductive materials like graphene and PEDOT: PSS to create the fabric.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalEnergy & Environmental Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Study finds physical activity reduces chronic disease risk

A new study by University of Iowa researchers found that physical activity reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. The study recommends health care providers survey patients on their physical activity levels to identify those at high risk.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 2, 2025

New method to measure 5G radiation from mobile phones and base stations

Researchers measured RF-EMF levels in various environments in Switzerland, finding exposure increases with population density. Exposure was highest when using the phone for maximum data download or upload, with average levels reaching up to 16 mW/m².

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 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.

Balancing renewable energy expansion and biodiversity conservation: new study highlights overlap of solar energy potential and critical habitats in the Southwest

A new study reveals a significant overlap between high-priority conservation habitats and areas suitable for large-scale solar energy development in the arid Southwest. The research emphasizes the urgent need for strategies that balance renewable energy growth with conservation priorities.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateJan 2, 2025

Reed beds: Nature’s hidden ally in combating sludge pollution

Researchers found reed wetlands effective in degrading pollutants and stabilizing sludge volume through microbial diversity and natural processes. Optimal performance achieved at 100 kg/m^2/year, validating reed beds as sustainable solution for water pollution management.

SourceZhejiang University·JournalSoil & Environmental Health·DateJan 2, 2025

Robert McKeown recognized for a half century of distinguished service

Robert McKeown, a distinguished service award recipient, has made significant contributions to nuclear physics over the past 50 years. He supervised 14 Ph.D. students and educated thousands of people worldwide through teaching and lecturing at prestigious institutions.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJan 2, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Cardiovascular disease and breast cancer stage at diagnosis

A case-control study found a link between advanced breast cancer stage and prevalent cardiovascular disease, with hormone receptor-positive and ERBB2-negative disease being more affected. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings and investigate interventions to improve patient outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 2, 2025

Genetics of alternating sexes in walnuts

Researchers at UC Davis reveal a 40-million-year-old genetic mechanism controlling alternating sexes in walnuts, similar to human sex chromosomes. Two variants of a gene linked to flowering type balance each other, maintaining genetic variation and equilibrium.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Blood test can predict how long vaccine immunity will last, Stanford Medicine-led study shows

A Stanford Medicine-led study has discovered a molecular signature in the blood that can predict how long an individual's vaccine immunity will last. The signature, found in platelet RNA molecules, is associated with megakaryocyte activation in the bone marrow and can forecast longer-lasting antibody responses to various vaccines.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Can patient groups remain independent with drug company funding?

A new study highlights the risk of patient organizations losing independence due to funding from pharmaceutical companies. Researchers propose establishing a single database to track payments made to patient groups, doctors, and hospitals to improve transparency.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalInternational Journal of Social Determinants of Health and Health Services·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 2, 2025

Epigenetic clocks reveal biological age at cell-type resolution

Researchers developed a new tool to measure biological aging in individual cell types, providing insights into diseases like Alzheimer's and liver pathologies. The study found that certain brain cells and liver cells show signs of accelerated aging, making it a better tool for detecting diseases.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateJan 2, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Bringing the magic of playing music to the virtual world

The Joint Active Music Sessions (JAMS) platform allows musicians to connect and practice with others in real-time, using avatars that capture the nuances of live performance. This innovative platform aims to bridge the gap between physical and virtual music-making.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·DateJan 2, 2025

Water treatment: catching steroid hormones with nanotubes

Researchers at KIT developed a new water treatment method using carbon nanotube membranes in electrochemical membrane reactors. The study found that pre-adsorption of steroid hormones does not limit their degradation, thanks to rapid adsorption and effective mass transfer. This approach has the potential to improve the removal of micro...

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 2, 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.

Secrets of migratory bats: They “surf” storm front winds to save energy

Researchers tracked 71 female common noctule bats on their spring migration across central Europe, finding they align journeys with warm nights and incoming storm fronts. The bats' ability to surf wind currents allows them to reduce energy demands, but flexibility in migration timing is also crucial for survival.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 2, 2025

Increased wildfire activity may be a feature of past periods of abrupt climate change, study finds

A new study suggests that increased wildfire activity was a feature of past periods of abrupt climate change, which also saw significant shifts in tropical rainfall patterns and temperature fluctuations. The research analyzed ancient methane trapped in Antarctic ice and found that the spikes were likely caused by global wildfires.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 2, 2025

Canadian forests are more prone to severe wildfires in recent decades

A new study finds that fuel aridity is the most significant driver of forest fire burn severity in Canadian forests, particularly over the last two decades. Burn severity has increased significantly, especially in northern Canada, where changing climate and vegetation type play a critical role.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 2, 2025

Newborn brain circuit stabilizes gaze

A new study reveals that the vestibulo-ocular reflex, which enables stable perception of surroundings, matures without sensory input in newborns. Researchers discovered that the slowest-maturing part of the brain circuit is at the neuromuscular junction, not in the brain as previously assumed.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Nearly half of U.S. adults resolve to start a new diet in 2025

A recent survey found that nearly half of U.S. adults plan to start a new diet in 2025, with the most common diets being low-calorie and low-carbohydrate options. However, plant-based diets have been shown to be effective for weight loss without restricting or counting calories, and also reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateJan 2, 2025

NIH officials assess threat of H5N1

The NIH and its partners remain focused on monitoring the H5N1 virus, which has caused sporadic infections among wild birds and poultry farms. Researchers highlight four keys to controlling the current outbreak: timely collaborations, disease surveillance, medical countermeasures, and precautions to prevent exposure.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 2, 2025

Expanding the agenda for more just genomics

A special report identifies actions to enhance justice in genomics, ensuring fair access to research, promoting diversity, and protecting privacy. Researchers can reform practices that perpetuate racism, ensure disability inclusion, and democratize data sharing.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalThe Hastings Center Report·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 2, 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.

New research aims to improve bridge construction in Texas

The study focuses on developing design provisions for using headed reinforcement in bridge structures, reducing construction time and costs. Full-scale experimental testing is underway at the Center for Infrastructure Renewal's High-Bay Laboratory.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJan 2, 2025

It’s all about expression

Researchers found that human cells have higher gene expression rates compared to chimpanzees, with 5-10% of genes showing significant differences. Human glial cells, particularly oligodendrocytes, showed the greatest variations in gene expression, suggesting a link to human brain complexity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 2, 2025
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Targeting tristetraprolin in basophils: A breakthrough in allergic inflammation treatment

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo discovered that tristetraprolin (TTP) regulates inflammatory responses in basophils by promoting mRNA degradation. In TTP-deficient mice, aggravated allergic inflammation was observed, suggesting TTP as a key regulator of basophil-mediated immune responses.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAllergology International·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

AI can improve ovarian cancer diagnoses

A new study published in Nature Medicine shows that AI-based models can accurately identify ovarian cancer in ultrasound images, achieving an accuracy rate of 86.3%. The models also reduce the need for expert referrals and misdiagnosis rates by 63% and 18%, respectively.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 2, 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.

A “ticking time bomb” for liver cancer

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine have discovered that fatty liver disease can lead to liver cancer through DNA damage in liver cells. The study suggests that developing new drugs to prevent or reverse DNA damage could be a promising approach for preventing liver cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateJan 2, 2025

Psychedelic drug therapy may address mental health concerns in people with cancer and addiction

Two studies suggest that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy can improve mental health outcomes for patients with cancer and alcohol use disorder, reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and obsessive thoughts, while also promoting lasting personality changes.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 2, 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.

CAR-T cells hold memories of past encounters

Scientists found that 'memory cells' with past antigen experience kill cancer quickly but become exhausted faster. On the other hand, 'naïve' cells without prior experience exhibit robust expansion and resistance to exhaustion when targeted by specific genes like RUNX2.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Chinese Medical Journal study reveals potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) in finding new glaucoma drugs

A study published in Chinese Medical Journal explores the use of artificial intelligence to identify potential medications for treating glaucoma. Researchers used AI models to predict the effectiveness of small-molecule compounds targeting RIPK3, a key signaling molecule involved in programmed cell death.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Africa: Better roads promote greater dietary diversity

A new study suggests that better access to regional markets is more important than farmers growing a diverse range of crops on their own smallholdings. Markets increase the variety of foods available locally, benefiting the population as a whole.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Food·DateJan 2, 2025

Update: T cells may offer some protection in an H5N1 ‘spillover’ scenario

A new study by La Jolla Institute for Immunology researchers suggests that many people may already have immune cells on standby to combat the H5N1 virus. The study found similarities between H5N1 and seasonal influenza viruses, allowing scientists to predict cross-reactive T cell responses that could help decrease disease severity.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalmBio·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 2, 2025
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New imaging technique offers insight into Achilles tendon injury recovery

Researchers used Mueller matrix polarimetry to assess injured Achilles tendons, revealing decreased phase retardance and irregular fiber orientation. Healthy tendons showed higher phase retardance and consistent fiber arrangement, indicative of strong undamaged tissue.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

New study reveals that sleep prevents unwanted memories from intruding

A new study published in PNAS found that sleep deprivation leads to memory control deficits, making it harder to suppress unwanted memories. REM sleep rejuvenates brain regions that support memory inhibition, reducing the likelihood of intrusive memories.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Bats surf storm fronts during continental migration

Scientists have studied common noctule bats on their spring migration across Europe, using ultra-light sensors connected 'like cell phones' to track their movements. The study reveals that bats surf storm fronts to conserve energy and migrate further, with some individuals covering over 400 kilometers in a single night.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Animal Behavior·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Research on Colombian peace accord shows that addressing gender issues strengthens peace agreements

A new study by University of Notre Dame researcher Madhav Joshi examines the Colombian peace agreement's implementation and finds that addressing gender-related issues is critical to its success. The study reveals that prioritizing gender leads to a more comprehensive approach, addressing broader societal needs.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalPolicy Studies Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 2, 2025