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Science News for January 24, 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.

Hawai‘i’s two most active volcanoes share a magma source

Researchers have discovered that Kīlauea and Maunaloa, Hawai‘i's two most active volcanoes, share a common source of magma within the Hawaiian plume. This magmatic connection results in broad correlations between changes in their lava chemistry.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalJournal of Petrology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2025

MSK researchers help to map the human virome

MSK researchers contribute to the Human Virome Program, which aims to map viruses living in and on humans. The project seeks to understand how these viruses contribute to human health and disease, potentially revealing links between viral infections and cancer outcomes.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·DateJan 24, 2025

Exploring decision making in people with obsessive compulsive disorder

Research suggests that people with OCD have similar delay discounting and risk tolerance as neurotypical individuals, challenging previous theories about the condition's impact on decision-making. The study's findings may lead to more individualized interventions for OCD treatment.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

KAIST uncovers the principles of gene expression regulation in cancer and cellular functions​

A KAIST research team identified core gene expression networks regulated by proteins that drive phenomena such as cancer development and tissue differentiation. The study revealed that IPMK acts as a critical transcriptional activator in these networks, enhancing SRF's protein activity.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 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.

Microbial solutions for boosting seaweed farming and carbon capture

Researchers found that manipulating seaweed's microbiome can boost its potential for fighting climate change by promoting disease resistance, nutrient uptake, and stability. Early life stages of seaweeds are critical windows for establishing beneficial microbes that persist throughout the seaweed's life cycle.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Carbon·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 24, 2025

Research team led by OHIO’s Sabrina Curran finds new evidence that pushes back the arrival of early hominins in Europe; discovery published in Nature Communications

A research team led by Ohio University's Sabrina Curran has discovered new evidence of early hominin activity in Europe, suggesting that hominins were present on the continent at least 1.95 million years ago. This finding pushes back previous timelines and provides valuable insights into the behavior of early human ancestors.

SourceOhio University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 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.

Specific types of liver immune cells are required to deal with injury

New research reveals that lipid-associated macrophages (LAMs) are crucial for liver repair, while Kupffer cells also adapt to take on a LAM-like phenotype. The Trem2 gene is essential for clearance of dying liver cells and promoting tissue repair.

SourceVlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2025

What to do with aging solar panels?

A three-year project aims to proactively ensure circularity of solar panels by providing solutions to barriers throughout the supply chain. The team will develop reverse logistics models and next-generation data-driven supply chains for recycling solar panels and reusing critical materials like silicon and silver.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJan 24, 2025

Creating bioinspired structures with 3D printing

Scientists at SUTD have created innovative architectures for direct ink writing to fabricate complex bio-inspired structures, including lattices, webs, and leaf-like structures. These novel materials exhibit remarkable properties, such as improved suction force and energy absorption.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateJan 24, 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.

Researchers enhance flood season rainfall predictions by combining machine learning and climate system model

A recent study has employed machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy of flood season rainfall predictions. The findings show that combining climate system numerical models with ML-based correction methods results in substantial improvements, increasing prediction scores by up to 7.87%.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJan 24, 2025

More transparency about So Cal’s fire-polluted air

The ASCENT project provides real-time advanced air pollutant measurements, including PM2.5 aerosols and chemical components, to help increase public safety amidst the LA fires. The network measures chemicals emitted by burning structures and household materials, such as lead and chlorine, which can have toxic or carcinogenic effects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJan 24, 2025

Circulating SCFAs and BCFAs are associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Research from the China Cardiometabolic Disease and Cancer Cohort Study found associations between circulating short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and branched short-chain fatty acids (BCFAs) with incident type 2 diabetes. Propionate was specifically linked to T2DM risk in women, while no association was observed in men.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalLife Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2025

Evolution without sex: How mites have survived for millions of years

Researchers discovered that independent evolution of chromosome copies in oribatid mites enables genetic diversity through mechanisms like the Meselson effect and horizontal gene transfer. This approach allows for rapid adaptation to environmental changes and supports long-term survival.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 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.

HKUST researcher unveiling the uncharted reaction pathways of carbon dioxide in supercritical water

A research team led by Associate Professor Ding P led a breakthrough discovery regarding the complex reaction mechanisms of carbon dioxide in supercritical water. They found that pyrocarbonate is a stable and important reaction intermediate in nanoconfined environments, which was previously overlooked.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2025

Researchers reveal toughening mechanism of crack front in bioinspired materials

A research team has uncovered the propagation and toughening mechanism of tortuous crack front in bioinspired anisotropic heterogeneities. They developed an optimization design for toughness amplification by manipulating microstructural orientation, leading to a 3D helical crack-tip configuration.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 24, 2025

JNM publishes procedure standard/practice guideline for fibroblast activation protein PET

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has issued a new procedure standard/practice guideline for the use of fibroblast activation protein (FAP) PET, outlining indications, imaging procedures, and quality control/quality assurance procedures. The guideline aims to deliver diagnostic efficacy and study quality for patients.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 24, 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.

Calculating error-free more easily with two codes

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have developed a method to switch between two error correction codes in an error-tolerant manner, making it easier to implement all required gates for computing. This breakthrough enables the quantum computer to efficiently suppress errors and improve calculation accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2025

Seagrass meadows as natural climate protectors

Seagrass meadows promote biodiversity, coastal protection, and water quality improvement while effectively storing carbon dioxide. A new project aims to develop strategies for their conservation and restoration in the Baltic Sea.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·DateJan 24, 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.

Researchers map the brain's self-healing abilities after stroke

A new study from the University of Southern Denmark reveals that the brain's self-healing abilities are hindered by inflammation after a stroke. The researchers mapped specific cells that play a central role in rebuilding myelin, but found gender differences in how men and women respond to injuries.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·DateJan 24, 2025

Revolutionizing ammonia synthesis: New iron-based catalyst surpasses century-old benchmark

Researchers have designed an innovative iron-based catalyst that can produce ammonia at a rate three times higher than the current industry standard. The new catalyst, made from earth-abundant materials, enables efficient industrial production of ammonia, a crucial chemical for fertilizers and sustainable agriculture.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2025

Moffitt study shows how genomic tests could help treat prostate cancer more effectively

A new review led by Moffitt Cancer Center researchers shows that genomic tests can provide more detailed information about prostate cancer. However, experts highlight the need for more data on the cost-effectiveness and clinical utility of these tests, as well as their impact on racial and ethnic groups.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 24, 2025

IGFBP6: new therapeutic target for atherosclerosis

Researchers found that IGFBP6 levels are diminished in atherosclerotic plaques and serum from patients with coronary artery disease, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target. Overexpression of IGFBP6 reversed pro-inflammatory effects induced by disturbed flow and tumor necrosis factor.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateJan 24, 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.

New drug shows promise in restoring vision for people with nerve damage

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have discovered a promising drug candidate that accelerates the brain's natural repair mechanisms and improves vision-related brain functions. The treatment, LL-341070, enhances myelin repair, which is crucial for preventing vision loss in diseases like MS.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 24, 2025

Scientists design peptides to enhance drug efficacy

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking approach using specially designed peptides to improve drug formulations, significantly enhancing anti-tumor efficacy in leukemia models. The innovative method achieves high drug loadings and optimizes delivery to targeted areas, holding significant potential for treating various diseases.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2025

Myth busted: Healthy habits take longer than 21 days to set in

Researchers found that new habits can begin forming within about two months, but can take up to 335 days to establish. The study also identified factors that influence successful habit formation, including frequency, timing, and enjoyment.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalHealthcare·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 24, 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.

Artificial intelligence accelerates the development of fuel cell materials

The article explores how AI is accelerating the development of fuel cell materials by predicting stability, performance, and optimizing system control. Machine learning techniques have been successfully applied to various types of fuel cells, including proton exchange membrane fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cells.

SourceELSP·JournalAI & Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 24, 2025

Doctors test a new way to help people quit fentanyl

A new microdosing approach using low doses of buprenorphine has been tested on patients with opioid use disorder, but most found it ineffective. The study, which included 126 participants, showed that only 34% were able to work up to a full dose of buprenorphine.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 24, 2025

Mental well-being and physical activity can form a positive cycle

A recent study found that positive affectivity contributes to higher physical activity levels and increased activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, depressive feelings are associated with lower physical activity levels. Mental well-being plays a crucial role in maintaining a physically active lifestyle.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJan 24, 2025

U. of I. team develops weight loss app that tracks fiber, protein content in meals

The University of Illinois team developed MealPlot, an interactive feature that charts protein and fiber content in food. The app helps individuals plan meals with a focus on high protein and fiber density to achieve a calorie deficit while maintaining muscle mass.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJMIR Formative Research·DateJan 24, 2025

Long COVID, Italian scientists discovered the molecular ‘fingerprint’ of the condition in children's blood

A study by Italian scientists has identified a distinct protein signature in the blood plasma of pediatric patients with Long COVID, characterized by increased inflammation and endothelial damage. The discovery could lead to the development of a simple diagnostic test based on a blood sample.

SourceUniversita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore·JournalPediatric Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 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.

Progress and challenges in brain implants

Researchers call for special ethical care as neural implants improve mobility and alleviate pain for patients with neurological disorders. However, concerns over data protection, psychological privacy and hacker risks pose significant challenges to the development of these technologies.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateJan 24, 2025

Machine vision under low-light conditions improved

Researchers developed a system to detect and decode fiducial markers in challenging lighting conditions using neural networks. The system, DeepArUco++, overcomes the limitations of classic machine vision techniques and can be applied today thanks to open availability of its code.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalImage and Vision Computing·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2025

Medicaid-insured heart transplant patients face higher risk of post-transplant complications

A new study highlights the link between socioeconomic disadvantage and poorer survival rates after heart transplantation in Medicaid-insured patients. The research found that these patients had a higher likelihood of developing cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), a condition affecting transplanted hearts and limiting long-term survival.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Annals of Thoracic Surgery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 24, 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.

Fruit flies’ courtship song may hold key to controlling mosquitoes

Researchers discovered a gene that enables fruit flies to detect unique male courtship songs, which is also present in mosquitoes. Silencing this gene could theoretically limit mosquito populations and disease transmission. The study's findings have implications for controlling diseases like Zika and West Nile virus.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournaleNeuro·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2025

How human activity has shaped Brazil Nut forests’ past and future

A recent study by Max Planck Institute researchers analyzed Brazil Nut tree samples to understand genetic diversity and population dynamics. The findings show a drastic decline in genetic diversity over the last 20,000 years, but areas with Indigenous management exhibit more complex genetic backgrounds.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 24, 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.

A foray into the theory of mechanochemical reaction rates

A new theory predicts that a layer of mostly product at the interface determines the reaction rate in mechanochemical reactions. The force applied by the balls accelerates the reaction by reducing the thickness of the product-rich layer and inducing faster collisions between reactants.

SourceInstitute for Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery (ICReDD)·JournalRSC Mechanochemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 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.

New design makes aluminum batteries last longer

Researchers have designed a cost-effective and environment-friendly aluminum-ion battery that can withstand repeated jabs and high temperatures. The battery's long life and improved stability make it a promising technology for large-scale energy storage.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 24, 2025

New York Valves: The Structural Heart Summit is back!

The summit features live case demonstrations, interactive debates, hands-on training, and the latest evidence-based practices in structural heart care. Attendees will witness innovation in action, exploring breakthroughs in surgical techniques, transcatheter interventions, and personalized treatment strategies.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateJan 24, 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.

Sepsis, or death by lethal message

Researchers discovered that cells caught up in sepsis send out messages to other cells, causing them to die and fueling the spiraling inflammation. By understanding this process, scientists may be able to develop a treatment for inflammatory diseases like sepsis.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2025

Dissolving clusters of cancer cells to prevent metastases

A new study published in Nature Medicine shows a promising approach to preventing metastases in breast cancer patients. Researchers found that administering digoxin reduced circulating tumour cell clusters by an average of 2.2 cells, significantly decreasing the risk of metastasis.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 24, 2025

A therapeutic HPV vaccine could eliminate precancerous cervical lesions

A therapeutic HPV vaccine targeting HPV16 could potentially eliminate precancerous cervical lesions, according to a phase II clinical trial. The vaccine showed significant regression and reduced lesion size in patients with HPV16-positive high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 24, 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.

Novel neuronal mechanism for stress induced alteration in behavior

Studies using a rodent model found sustained increase in neural activity in the paraventricular thalamus (PVT) after exposure to a strongly stressful event. This persistent activity is linked to altered behavior, including restlessness and disturbed sleep patterns. The findings suggest a new therapeutic target for stress-related issues.

SourceInstitute of Experimental Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeNews article·DateJan 24, 2025

Duration in immigration detention and health harms

A cross-sectional study found that detained immigrants experience high rates of poor health, mental illness, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Longer detention periods are associated with higher health harms, emphasizing the need for improved immigration detention conditions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 24, 2025