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Science News for January 20, 2025


A new state between metal and insulator

Researchers at TU Wien discovered a new energy band that remains connected by an 'umbilical cord' when one allowed energy range splits into two separate bands. This phenomenon is bound to occur in materials with large electron interaction, opening up a new perspective on technologically highly interesting classes of materials.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 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 professorship for artificial intelligence in business informatics

Kevin Bauer's new professorship at Goethe University Frankfurt aims to understand human-machine interaction and promote responsible AI research. His research focuses on the psychological and organizational factors determining the efficiency and quality of collaboration between humans and machines.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateJan 20, 2025

Study identifies benefits, risks linked to popular weight-loss drugs

A recent study published in Nature Medicine analyzed over 2 million veterans taking GLP-1RA medications, finding benefits to cognitive and behavioral health while revealing increased risks for pancreatitis and kidney conditions. The study also showed decreased risks of seizures, addiction, suicidal ideation, and neurocognitive disorders.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 2025

Prognostic power of the micropapillary pattern in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: A game changer

Researchers studied the prognostic power of micropapillary patterns in PDAC, finding that even small percentages serve as independent prognostic factors for decreased survival. The study suggests incorporating micropapillary pattern percentage into pathology reports could enhance patient management strategies.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Pathology·DateJan 20, 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.

Printing proteins to recreate the gut in the lab

Scientists at IBEC create a system to control formation of intestinal crypts and villi using protein printing technique, enabling controlled analysis of gut biology. The method allows for detailed study of cell regeneration and diseases such as cancer and inflammatory diseases.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

Concrete as a carbon store

Empa researchers suggest that building materials like concrete can absorb enormous quantities of carbon, offering a viable solution for reducing CO₂ levels. The concept of 'Mining the Atmosphere' aims to create a new global economic model using CO₂ as a raw material, with concrete accounting for a significant share of carbon storage.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalConservation & Recycling·DateJan 20, 2025

Discovery of genetic loci associated with allergic sensitization

Researchers identified 18 Japanese-specific genetic polymorphisms linked to allergic sensitization, as well as shared variants across both Japanese and European populations. The study highlights a major advancement in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying allergic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·DateJan 20, 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.

How to recycle CO2 from flue gases

Researchers developed a method to extract CO2 from flue gases with as little as 5% concentration using a superactive nickel-copper catalyst. The process involves adjusting electrical potentials and electrolyte, allowing access to previously unusable CO2 sources.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

Inflammation may explain stomach problems in psoriasis sufferers

Researchers at Uppsala University found that people with psoriasis have invisible inflammation in their small intestine, which can lead to gastrointestinal problems and an increased risk of developing Crohn's disease. Half of the study participants had a leaky gut, allowing bacteria and harmful substances to leak through the intestinal...

SourceUppsala University·JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular Basis of Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

Influence of COVID-19 infection experience on fear

Researchers analyzed data from a nationwide survey to understand the relationship between COVID-19 infection experiences and fear levels. The study found that mild infection experiences alleviated fear, while severe symptoms worsened it, and that fear decreased over time.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMJ Open·DateJan 20, 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.

James Mori honored with SSA Distinguished Service Award

Mori received the award at the 2025 SSA Annual Meeting for his efforts in promoting SSA's international outreach, including a successful joint meeting with LACSC. He also supported the SSA Kanamori Fund to mentor and network early-career seismologists.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateJan 20, 2025

Nanoislands on silicon with switchable topological textures

Scientists have successfully created nanoislands on silicon that can be controlled by an external electric field. These nanoislands exhibit swirling polar textures with promise for future applications in ultra-high-density data storage and energy-efficient transistors.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

How did health insurance coverage changes affect older adults? Two new studies take a look

Two new studies found that those who turned 65 after the ACA took effect had lower out-of-pocket health costs and fewer hospitalizations. However, dual-eligible individuals over 65 saw negative impacts from Medicaid 'unwinding,' with 12% losing coverage and many going without needed care due to cost.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 2025

Ancient viral DNA shapes early embryo development

A study by researchers at Helmholtz Munich has discovered that ancient viral DNA elements are re-expressed in mammalian embryos, playing a crucial role in early development. The activation of these elements is conserved across species and provides opportunities for manipulating thousands of genes simultaneously.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell·DateJan 20, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

HKUST develops world’s smallest multifunctional biomedical robot for interventional diagnosis and treatment

Researchers at HKUST have developed a world's smallest multifunctional biomedical robot, capable of imaging, high-precision motion, and multifunctional operations. The robot offers competitive imaging performance and extends obstacle detection distance up to ~9.4 mm.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

Regular dog walking improves mobility and reduces falls in older adults

A new study from Trinity College Dublin reveals that regular dog walking is associated with improved mobility, reduced fear of falling, and a lower likelihood of unexplained falls. The study, based on TILDA data, highlights the potential benefits of this simple activity for older adults.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalJournal of Gerontology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 2025

KAIST develops neuromorphic semiconductor chip that learns and corrects itself​

The KAIST team developed a next-generation neuromorphic semiconductor-based integrated system that can learn and correct errors on its own. This technology will revolutionize AI use in everyday devices, making them faster, more private and energy-efficient.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

Produce and store energy? DGIST successfully developed next-gen eco-friendly artificial muscle fibers

A research team at DGIST developed innovative artificial muscle fibers that can produce and store energy, mimicking real muscles. The fibers, made from eco-friendly poly(lactic acid) and bio-based thermoplastic polyurethane, demonstrated exceptional durability and performance, with applications in advanced textiles, medical robotics, a...

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateJan 20, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Smart textile to sense light, pressure, smell, and even taste—successfully developed next-gen fibers that will change the future of wearable technologies

A research team developed semiconductor fibers that emulate the five human senses, measuring changes in light, chemicals, pressure, pH, and mechanical strain. The fibers' unique structure allows precise control of their three-dimensional spiral shape, enabling them to detect a variety of environmental information.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Fiber Materials·DateJan 20, 2025

New biomarkers to detect colorectal cancer

Researchers at University of Birmingham have discovered three new protein biomarkers TFF3, LCN2, and CEACAM5 that show strong predictive potential for colorectal cancer. These biomarkers are linked to cell adhesion and inflammation, processes closely associated with cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 2025

Scientists uncover structure of critical component in deadly Nipah virus

Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Boston University have mapped the structure of the Nipah virus's polymerase complex, a key piece of its machinery. This discovery provides a detailed understanding of how the pathogen multiplies inside hosts and could inform the design of treatments.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

NTU Singapore, India’s Energy Department of the Government of Odisha, and Indian Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar collaborate to advance R&D in sustainable energy technologies

The collaboration aims to drive innovation in renewable energy technologies, focusing on advancements in solar, wind, and other new and renewable energy systems. Research efforts will also study microgrid technologies, grid management solutions, and explore energy-efficient buildings and processes.

SourceNanyang Technological University·DateJan 20, 2025

Study shows positive impact of anti-junk food ads during sports broadcasts

A new Edith Cowan University study found that anti-junk food advertisements during Australian national sporting broadcasts reduced both cravings and consumption intentions, particularly in healthy BMI participants. In contrast, junk food advertisements were largely unregulated and had minimal to no impact on inclinations to eat junk food.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalHealth Promotion Journal of Australia·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2025

Scientists develop device for automated cropping and resizing of images

Researchers at Sharjah University have designed techniques to automatically predict suitable image dimensions using deep learning models. The proposed methods aim to bridge the gap in automating image retargeting approaches based on an image and target resolution.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalIEEE Access·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

Cycle of coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef now at ‘catastrophic’ levels

A recent study revealed that 66% of coral colonies on the southern Great Barrier Reef were bleached by February 2024, with 80% by April. The research team tracked the health of 462 coral colonies over 161 days and found that 44% of the bleached colonies had died, including a staggering 95% mortality rate for some species.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 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.

Gene classifier tests for prostate cancer may influence treatment decisions despite lack of evidence for long-term outcomes

A systematic review found that genomic classifier tests can influence risk classifications and treatment decisions for patients with localized prostate cancer, but more research is needed to understand their cost-effectiveness and impact on racial groups. The tests may lead to more conservative management options, such as active survei...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateJan 20, 2025

New approach to fighting cancer: Energy trap for tumor cells

Scientists at German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) have found that blocking Aldolase A enzyme can trap energy in liver cancer cells, leading to slowed tumor growth. The team demonstrated this in mouse and human cancer cell lines, suggesting a promising strategy for combating cancer cells.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJan 20, 2025

Floating nanoballoons for improved bioavailability and sustained release anti-inflammatory effect of ibuprofen

The study developed floating nanoballoons to improve ibuprofen's bioavailability and sustained release its anti-inflammatory effects. The formulation showed superior edema inhibition in acute inflammation studies, reducing TNF-α, hs-CRP, and IL-6 levels, while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Exploratory Research in Pharmacology·DateJan 20, 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.

Guidance on animal-borne infections in the Canadian Arctic

The review highlights seven zoonotic infections in people, including those transmitted through traditional diets and hunting practices. Climate change is affecting the local ecosystem, altering animal behavior and parasite life cycles, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 20, 2025

New study paves way for immunotherapies tailored for childhood cancers

A new study published in Cell reveals significant differences in the immune response of children and adults to cancer, with potential implications for targeted therapies. The research shows that children's tumours are generally less inflammatory and have fewer mutations, making them appear less foreign to their immune system.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

DGIST pioneered an unknown quantum world by discovering a “1/3” fractional quantum state!

The discovery of a '1/3' fractional quantum Hall state in twisted graphene could lead to the development of more efficient electronic devices. The researchers used a unique structure comprising two slightly twisted layers of graphene, observing new patterns that create different rules for governing electron movement.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 20, 2025

Reliable analysis of intrinsically disordered proteins

Intrinsically disordered proteins make up 30% of all proteins and are linked to various diseases. By combining two methods in a single sample, researchers have improved the accuracy of measuring protein size and its impact on disease development.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 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.

Getting the most out of cosmic maps

Researchers have developed a new approach to analyzing cosmic maps, known as field-level inference, which preserves the fidelity of the data and can improve the determination of cosmological parameters by a factor of 3.5 to 5.2 compared to standard methods.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 20, 2025

In chimpanzees, peeing is contagious

A study on captive chimpanzees found that when one individual pees, others are more likely to follow, with lower-ranking individuals being more likely to pee in response. This suggests that urination patterns are influenced by social hierarchy, with a tendency for the behavior to 'flow down' the dominance structure.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2025

How can we design humane autonomous systems?

The open-access book delves into the impact of AI and autonomous systems on human lives and ways of working, emphasizing their importance in prioritizing human well-being and creativity. Key learnings include the need for ethical design practices and considering AI as part of a larger system to enhance human experiences.

SourceUniversity of Vaasa·DateJan 20, 2025

Researchers create AI tool capable of generating realistic satellite images of future floods

A new study by the University of Granada's DaSCI institute uses deep generative vision models to create highly realistic satellite images of future climate-related events. The model outperforms pure deep learning and manual solutions, reducing prediction errors and improving image reliability.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 20, 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.

Do two puffs equal a bong hit? Research aims to find out

Researchers developed an Index of Cannabis Equivalence (ICE) to establish standardized cannabis dosing guidelines. The study found that two puffs from a joint, pipe, or vaporizer equal one bong hit in terms of psychoactive effects.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Psychoactive Drugs·DateJan 20, 2025

Dihydroartemisinin inhibits T cell activation in people living with HIV with incomplete immune reconstitution in vitro

This study investigates the biological mechanisms underlying incomplete immune reconstitution and evaluates Dihydroartemisinin's potential as a therapeutic agent. DHA effectively inhibits T cell activation in individuals with incomplete immune reconstitution, presenting a promising treatment strategy.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Exploratory Research in Pharmacology·DateJan 20, 2025

New global research reveals strong public trust in science

A new international study on public trust in science found that most people trust scientists and believe they should be more involved in society and policymaking. The study also highlights areas of concern, such as the lack of attention to others' views and misalignment between scientific priorities and public values.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 20, 2025

Advancing prostate cancer care: Insights from Chinese experts

A group of Chinese experts has developed a comprehensive consensus aimed at addressing critical gaps in prostate cancer management. The consensus recommends starting PSA screening at age 50 and endorsing the use of next-generation hormonal agents combined with ADT for high-volume metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer patients.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalUroPrecision·DateJan 20, 2025
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Shorter, smarter, safer: Short-course antibiotics can revolutionize healthcare

Researchers found that short-course antibiotics can be as effective as traditional longer treatments in preventing death and recurrence of pneumonia. This approach offers significant value for healthcare systems by reducing hospital expenditure while maintaining excellent patient outcomes.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 20, 2025

Researchers first observe counterflow superfluidity in Mott insulator

A team of researchers has observed counterflow superfluidity in a two-component Mott insulator for the first time, providing key evidence for this novel quantum state. The study uses ultracold atomic quantum simulation to explore rich quantum modulation and observational techniques.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 20, 2025

Nurse home visits for first-time mothers target intimate partner violence to boost child health outcomes: SFU study

A new study from Simon Fraser University found that nurse home visiting programs can reduce intimate partner violence exposure and increase child health outcomes for young, first-time mothers. The program showed a 16% increase in annual income and fewer mental health problems for mothers by the time their children were two years old.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalBMJ Open·DateJan 20, 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.

The reliability of subjective reports of sleep duration and quality: Insights from in-home electroencephalography

Research found that 66% of individuals who perceived their sleep as poor showed no objective sleep problems, while 45% of those who considered their sleep sufficient were identified as potentially sleep-deprived. The study highlights the inadequacy of relying solely on subjective sleep assessments and emphasizes the importance of incor...

SourceInternational Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine, University of Tsukuba·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 2025

A new chapter in Roman administration: Insights from a late Roman inscription

A newly discovered Tetrarchic boundary stone provides valuable historical insights into the sweeping tax reforms of Roman Emperor Diocletian. The inscription mentions two previously unknown village names, a new imperial surveyor, and reflects the socio-economic dynamics during the Tetrarchy period.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPalestine Exploration Quarterly·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

Zhu honored with Charles F. Richter Early Career Award

Zhu has made groundbreaking contributions to earthquake monitoring using deep-learning models like PhaseNet, DeepDenoiser, and GaMMA. His work has led to breakthroughs in seismic phase picking, denoising, and phase association.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateJan 20, 2025
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Violence on TV: What happens to children who watch?

A new study found that early exposure to violent TV content in childhood is associated with increased risk of antisocial behavior in teenagers, especially boys. The study, led by Professor Linda Pagani, followed over 1,900 children from ages 3.5 to 15 and found that boys who watched more violent TV content had higher rates of aggressiv...

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJan 20, 2025

Charles Langston earns top honor in seismology

Charles Langston is awarded the Harry Fielding Reid Medal for his groundbreaking work on receiver function methodology, enabling unprecedented detail in imaging the Earth's crust and upper mantle. His techniques underlie multi-station imaging methods used globally, and have also been applied to study seismic data from Mars InSight.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateJan 20, 2025

Fox and rabbit in the quantum world

Quantum particles can behave like foxes and rabbits, with one attracting the other but also repelling it, leading to constant motion and formation of time crystals. This effect can be realized in open quantum systems using coupled atoms driven by laser light.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJan 20, 2025
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

How do we survive crises – then and now?

A new study published in Science Advances finds that four common resilience strategies - mobility, investment in infrastructure, exchange, and economic adjustment - have varying levels of effectiveness. Mobility and strong social ties proved to be solid protection against crises, while economic adjustment was the least effective strategy.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateJan 20, 2025

Microvascular over-dilation may lead to muscle hypoxia

Persistent microvascular over-dilation may cause muscle hypoxia, worsening chronic limb-threatening ischemia outcomes. Research suggests this phenomenon could be used to screen and treat patients with the disease.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJan 20, 2025

Global trust in science remains strong

A global survey of 71,922 people in 68 countries found that public trust in scientists is at a moderately high level worldwide. Most respondents believe scientists should communicate with the public about science and be more involved in policy-making, highlighting areas where science priorities may not align with public views.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeSurvey·DateJan 20, 2025