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Science News for July 15, 2025


Eyes on the prize: Decoding eye contact

Researchers found that specific gaze sequences, including looking at an object and making eye contact, are crucial for effective communication. This discovery has implications for social robot development and non-verbal communication training.

SourceFlinders University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Bacteria gene discovery enhances key antibiotic production for farming and medicine

Researchers discovered specific genes in Streptomyces cinnamonensis that significantly boost monensin synthesis, increasing yield by 1.3-fold in shake-flask cultures and 1.2-fold in a bioreactor. The engineered strain demonstrated efficient fatty acid metabolism, offering a sustainable pathway for high-efficiency biomanufacturing.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalSystems Microbiology and Biomanufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Genetic testing beneficial in critically ill adults

A study of 365 adults found nearly one in four had a genetic condition causing their ICU admission, which was unknown to nearly half of those patients and their doctors. The researchers recommend offering genetic testing to all adults admitted to the ICU to improve care and reduce health disparities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 15, 2025

UBC Okanagan researchers create 3D-printed living lung tissue

Researchers have developed a 3D bio-printed model of lung tissue that closely mimics natural complexity, enabling better testing of respiratory diseases and drug development. The model can be adapted to include additional cell types or patient-derived cells, making it a powerful tool for personalized medicine and disease modeling.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalBiotechnology and Bioengineering·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 15, 2025

New insights into the jet stream make better climate predictions possible

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the complex interactions between climate drivers and the Southern Hemisphere's Eddy-Driven Jet. By analyzing historical data and applying innovative statistical methods, they found that 50% of the observed shift in the jet stream is directly attributable to global warming.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 15, 2025

Pusan National University researchers develop breakthrough deep learning model that enhances handheld 3D medical imaging

A new deep learning model enhances handheld 3D medical imaging by automatically tracking transducer motion without external sensors. The model produces more realistic 3D US images and can reconstruct blood vessel structures using ultrasound and photoacoustic data.

SourcePusan National University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 15, 2025

New theory to understand the origins of the Universe

A team of scientists presents a revolutionary theory about the origins of the Universe, proposing that gravity and quantum mechanics are sufficient to explain its structure. The new model relies on natural quantum fluctuations in space-time and gravitational waves to seed density differences that led to galaxy formation.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJul 15, 2025

New gene tool leads to better treatments for complex diseases

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed a computational method and tool to identify genes and genetic changes causing complex diseases. Their new approach allows doctors to detect and treat cardiometabolic diseases earlier in their development, identifying new genes that were previously overlooked.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 15, 2025

PolyU secures RGC theme-based research scheme funding to develop cost-effective and sustainable Co-GenAI model

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has secured funding from the Research Grants Council to develop a cost-effective and sustainable collaborative Generative AI (Co-GenAI) model. The project aims to democratize AI development by reducing centralized computational demand and enabling broader participation in GenAI research and deployment.

UNM researchers receive funding to launch clinical trial of a new Alzheimer’s vaccineUNM researchers receive funding to launch clinical trial of a new Alzheimer’s vaccine

Researchers at the University of New Mexico are launching a Phase 1a/1b clinical trial for a new vaccine engineered to clear pathological tau protein from the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s dementia. The trial aims to assess the safety and immunogenicity of the novel vaccine.

LabMed Discovery Support

The Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical-Engineering Interdisciplinary Journal Alliance aims to bridge medicine and engineering research through scholarly publishing. The partnership seeks to accelerate translational research in precision medicine and biomedical engineering, increasing global visibility for China's 'Double First-Class...

How stress strengthens group bonds – and fuels intergroup conflict

Research found that physiological stress messengers noradrenaline and cortisol affect social behavior in different ways, promoting cooperativeness within groups and competition with outsiders. The study suggests a neurobiological explanation for the 'us versus them' mentality and increasing polarization in the world.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Old age takes its toll on tool use in wild chimpanzees

Wild chimpanzees show reduced participation and performance in tool-use behaviours as they age, with individual differences in impact observed. The study provides evidence that old age leads to a gradual withdrawal from tool use, affecting efficiency and daily tasks.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateJul 15, 2025

Mental health from supermarket shelves? This is the evidence we have about over-the-counter herbal products and dietary supplements used for depression

A review of 64 over-the-counter products found that omega-3s, St John's Wort, probiotics, and vitamin D have substantial evidence for treating depression. Other promising products include folic acid, lavender, zinc, tryptophan, and lemon balm. However, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 15, 2025

Playing an instrument may protect against cognitive aging

A study published in PLOS Biology found that long-term musical training can mitigate age-related declines in speech perception by promoting a more youthful pattern of brain activity. This suggests that musical training may build cognitive reserve, helping older adults maintain optimal cognitive performance.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Sweet discovery: sugars from the salty ocean are responsible for a large part of the ice nuclei in clouds over the remote oceans of the southern hemisphere

Marine microorganisms produce sugar compounds that enter the atmosphere through sea spray, contributing to cloud and precipitation formation. These polysaccharides are found to be the most important ice nuclei in clean air over the oceans around Antarctica.

Lunar Policy Platform (LPP), Committee on Space Research (COSPAR), and International Astronomical Union (IAU) sign MoU on Lunar Science & Ethics

The LPP, COSPAR, and IAU have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on lunar science and ethics. The partnership aims to develop principles and practices for balanced approaches to lunar activities, with a focus on promoting international cooperation and science-informed space policies.

To ‘Infinity’ and beyond — a look at a newborn black hole

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a supermassive black hole in the recently-collided galaxies known as the 'Infinity' galaxy. This finding is significant as it suggests a novel way for black holes to form and provides a possible explanation for the existence of incredibly massive black holes in the early universe.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 15, 2025

Chronic hives: Researchers identify most effective, safest treatments

A new study led by McMaster University researchers compared over 40 treatment options for chronic hives and found that certain treatments are more effective and safer than others. The findings will inform upcoming international clinical guidelines, providing patients and clinicians with a clear 'menu of treatment options' to choose from.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJul 15, 2025

An alternative adhesive for wearable medical devices

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a new type of adhesive that could improve the comfort and safety of wearable medical devices. The adhesive, made from polyelectrolyte-complex coatings, is water-based and has been shown to match the strength of commercial-grade adhesives while reducing skin irritation.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalMacromolecular Rapid Communications·DateJul 15, 2025

Korea University researchers reveal revealing how WEE1 drives cancer resistance to immunotherapy

Researchers from Korea University have discovered that the protein WEE1 can paradoxically drive immune resistance in cancer cells when located in the cytoplasm. This study suggests that targeting WEE1 with an inhibitor, such as adavosertib, may sensitize tumors to immunotherapy and reinvigorate antitumor immunity.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalCancer Immunology Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

'Adventurous’ vs ‘homebody’ anemonefish – research reveals key influences in diversification and evolution

Anemonefish evolved into diverse species due to distinct ecological lifestyles, including swimming efficiency, muscle architecture, and behavior. The study challenges long-held ideas about host specialization, positioning anemonefish as a new model system for studying ecological and evolutionary forces.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 15, 2025

New breakthrough could sharpen our view of colliding black holes

A new approach to analyzing gravitational-wave data could transform our understanding of extreme events like colliding black holes. The method developed by researchers from the University of Portsmouth and University College Dublin improves how scientists compare wave signals to existing models, laying important groundwork for future d...

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 15, 2025

Scientists discover a simple set of rules that may explain how our tissues stay organized

Researchers at ChristianaCare and the University of Delaware have identified five core biological rules that govern the structure and behavior of cells, potentially explaining how tissues stay organized. This discovery has significant implications for understanding tissue repair, birth defects, and cancer development.

SourceChristianaCare·JournalBiology of the Cell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 15, 2025

Meet your digital twin

Researchers created a digital twin to detect disease risk, initiate preventive treatment, and simulate effective treatments. The model uses extensive human data from the Human Phenotype Project to identify deviations from expected physiological changes in 17 body systems.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 15, 2025

Can biodegradable mulch films harm soil health?

A three-year study found that biodegradable plastic mulch films increased crop yields by 43%–46%, while maintaining stable soil organic matter content. The 'mini-greenhouse effect' created by the mulch film accelerated nutrient mineralization and reduced moisture evaporation, creating an ideal microenvironment for crop growth.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Planted forests store more seeds than natural ones—a surprising boost for reforestation

A study reveals that planted forests store significantly more seeds than their natural counterparts, providing a vital boost to reforestation initiatives. Soil nutrients and forest characteristics play a crucial role in shaping seed bank dynamics, with soil attributes emerging as the dominant drivers of seed storage.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalSeed Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Universal method unlocks entropy calculation for liquids

Researchers developed a universal approach to calculate liquid entropy using fundamental physical principles, achieving remarkable consistency with existing data. The new method predicts entropy accurately for various liquids, including sodium, and has significant implications for optimizing chemical reactions and material properties.

SourceThe University of Osaka·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 15, 2025

Induction effect of fluorine-grafted polymer-based electrolytes for high-performance lithium metal batteries

A fluorine-grafted quasi-solid composite electrolyte boosts ionic conductivity while sculpting a self-armoring LiF-rich interphase, enabling ultra-stable cycling. The electrolyte sustains symmetric Li||Li cells for over 4,000 hours and drives Ni-rich NCM622 full cells to retain nearly 100% capacity after 350 cycles.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Pavlov’s dogs were conditioned to go to their treat. Why do some animals learn to interact with the bell instead?

Researchers discovered that sign trackers, which prioritize interacting with cues over waiting for rewards, rely on dopamine in specific brain regions. The study found that inhibiting dopamine prevented rats from learning to sign track, while increasing dopamine did not speed up the process.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNeuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Transforming growth factor-beta signaling in cancer: therapeutic implications, challenges, and pathways to progress

The review critically examines anti-TGFβ therapies for cancer treatment, highlighting the importance of targeting specific epitopes to mitigate off-target toxicity. It suggests implementing intermittent dosing schedules or optimally timed interventions to alleviate toxicity without compromising efficacy.

Realizing on-site carbon nanotube photo-thermoelectric imaging

Researchers at Chuo University have developed chemically enriched photo-thermoelectric (PTE) imagers using semiconducting carbon nanotube (CNT) films, achieving enhanced response intensity and noise reduction. This enables efficient remote and on-site inspections with palm-sized wireless circuits.

SourceChuo University·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

New research helps narrow down uncertainties in near-term precipitation projections for the Asian Water Tower

A new study uses 100 ensemble members to analyze near-term precipitation projections for the QP, finding a complex east–west dipole pattern influenced by the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation. This helps increase consistency of precipitation projections.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJul 15, 2025

Thiacalix[4]arene functionalized molecular clusters involving Keggin-type PM4Mo8 (M= Co, Ni) motif: Electrochemical and photothermal conversion properties

Researchers have created molecular clusters featuring a Keggin-type PM4Mo8 (Co, Ni) motif, which display enhanced electrochemical performance due to the incorporation of V atoms. These clusters also show promising photothermal conversion capabilities under visible light irradiation.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalPolyoxometalates·DateJul 15, 2025

Health-impaired world leaders raise nuclear war fears

A study from the University of Otago found that 51 deceased leaders of nuclear-armed countries had multiple serious health issues while in office, including dementia, personality disorders, and depression. This raises concerns over their decision-making abilities while they had access to nuclear weapon launch codes.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalBMC Research Notes·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 15, 2025

Amniotic stem cells can be collected from vaginal fluid rather than more invasive techniques

Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus have found a new source of patient-specific stem cells by collecting amniotic fluid from vaginal fluid after childbirth. This method allows for expanded and readily available access to these stem cells, which can be used to create functional heart tissue for treating congenital heart defects.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJul 15, 2025

Understanding relationship development: Towards a more rigorous approach

A new paper from the University of Illinois discusses how contemporary methodologies can be applied to common relationship theories in a more rigorous way. The study employs Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM) to test theoretical-driven hypotheses about relationship development, providing insights for couples and helping practitione...

Microalgae-based production of dietary protein using solar-derived formate

A robust Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cultivation system was established using formate as the carbon source, achieving successful algal growth at 200 mM formate concentration. Protein quality assessments demonstrated that algal biomass met premium protein criteria with essential amino acid scores exceeding nutritional requirements.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalSystems Microbiology and Biomanufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Relief from drought in southwest U.S. likely isn’t coming, according to new research

A recent study from the University of Texas at Austin finds that climate change may be disrupting the natural Pacific Decadal Oscillation cycle, which brings needed rain to the region. This could lead to prolonged droughts in the southwest U.S., affecting water resources like the Colorado River.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 15, 2025

Most of us love memes. But are they a form of comics?

Research by Ohio State University professor Michelle Ann Abate argues that memes are a type of digital comic. Memes use similar visual and verbal elements to comics, producing humor through interplay between text and image. However, differences exist in layout and format, with memes often arranged vertically for online consumption.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInks The Journal of the Comics Studies Society·TypeContent analysis·DateJul 15, 2025

Reduction in supply of prey was decisive factor in extinction of saber-toothed tigers, study finds

Researchers at UNICAMP found that a reduction in prey availability was a decisive factor in the extinction of saber-toothed tigers. The study also shows that an increase in predator diversity led to a decline in herbivore species diversity among antilocaprids, which are now represented by a single species: the American bison.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 15, 2025

Efforts to eradicate invasive mussels likely to kill off many Idaho animal species

A new study finds that the copper-based molluscicide used to treat invasive mussels in Idaho's Snake River has devastating effects on the local ecosystem. Nearly half of the original mass of copper is gone after just 10 days, but dissolved copper concentrations remain toxic for over two weeks.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 15, 2025

SLAS Discovery and SLAS Technology demonstrate research impact with 2024 impact factors

The Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening's two scientific journals, SLAS Discovery and SLAS Technology, have achieved substantial impact factor increases due to open access publishing. This shift has led to higher citations and visibility for authors, with SLAS Technology experiencing a notable rise of 1.2 points to 3.7.