Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for July 17, 2025


Public perception of physicians who use AI

A study on public perception of physicians who use AI found that while effects are relatively small, they may be highly relevant due to the close link between trust in healthcare practitioners and subjective treatment outcomes. The integration of AI in healthcare has sparked certain reservations among the public.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 17, 2025

Neanderthals at two nearby caves butchered the same prey in different ways, suggesting local food traditions

Two Neanderthal groups living in Amud and Kebara caves in northern Israel butchered the same prey using similar tools but with distinct patterns of cut-marks on animal bones. These differences could represent cultural food practices such as drying or aging meat before butchering, which were passed down through generations.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Archaeology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2025

Historical and current population DNA reveals that there are at least 12 species of rocket frogs, three of which are already extinct

Researchers have identified a new genus of frog, Dryadobates, comprising at least 12 species, with three already declared extinct. The study utilized historical DNA analysis to clarify the taxonomic classification of previously single-species frogs, revealing hidden diversity and extinctions in the Atlantic Forest.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBulletin of the American Museum of Natural History·DateJul 17, 2025

Animal behavior: Dog TV viewing habits vary by personality

Research found that dog TV viewing habits differ by personality, with excitable dogs more likely to follow on-screen objects and fearful dogs reacting to car horns or doorbells. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that engaging with TV could provide dogs with an enriching experience.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2025

Cannabis use and benign salivary gland neoplasms

A recent study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found an association between cannabis use disorder and benign salivary gland tumors. The researchers call for further prospective research to confirm this association and understand the relationship between cannabis use and these tumors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateJul 17, 2025

An FDA-backed metric used to determine effectiveness of rectal cancer drugs may be unreliable, says new study

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found no statistical relationship between pathologic complete response (pCR) and overall survival in rectal cancer patients. This challenges the FDA's use of pCR as a surrogate endpoint for drug approval, which may lead to treatments being fast-tracked without evidence of improved long-term su...

SourceTulane University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 17, 2025

Key factors in sunscreen testing for personalized UV protection

A retrospective analysis of 1036 participants found that lighter skin showed lower unprotected MED values, while winter conditions correlated with greater UV tolerance. The study advocates for lab-specific prediction models to enhance testing precision and optimize UV protection for diverse populations.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2025

Patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation undergoing transcatheter mitral edge-to-edge repair for severe mitral regurgitation are at significantly higher risk of death or rehospitalization

A study from Mount Sinai Hospital found that patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation who undergo mitral edge-to-edge repair have a doubled risk of death or rehospitalization for heart failure compared to those without AF. The researchers recommend aggressive treatment of AF before the procedure to improve outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 17, 2025

AI can accelerate search for more effective Alzheimer’s medicines by streamlining clinical trials

Researchers used an AI model to reassess a completed clinical trial for an Alzheimer's disease drug, finding it slowed cognitive decline by 46% in early-stage patients. The AI model predicts patient progression and allows for more precise selection of trial participants, potentially reducing the cost of developing new medicines.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 17, 2025

Electrochemical route allows for the synthesis of giant fullerenes at a lower cost and with less environmental impact

A study by USP and Sapienza Università di Roma researchers has synthesized fullerenes with up to 190 carbon atoms using an electrochemical route. The process involves natural graphite, ethanol, water, and sodium hydroxide under ambient conditions, paving the way for new organic synthesis and technological applications.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalDiamond and Related Materials·DateJul 17, 2025

Disproportionately more opioids prescribed in poorer areas

A recent study found that people in poorer areas receive three times the prescriptions for opioids than those in wealthier areas, despite a decline in overall opioid use in Canada. The research highlights the persistence of inequalities in healthcare and the need for targeted interventions to mitigate the risks of opioid misuse.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalDrugs - Real World Outcomes·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 17, 2025

What ever-growing incisors can teach us about genetic disease

Researchers use a combination of materials science and human genetics to map out the properties of enamel and dentin development in mouse incisors. Their methodology has the potential to provide new insights into identifying and treating rare craniofacial diseases and common dental cavities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2025

Electric weed control proves shockingly effective

A recent study published in the journal Weed Science shows electric weed control technologies to be equally effective as herbicides and mechanical control methods. The research found that electric weed control provides a fire hazard risk if dry crop residues are present, but operation in winter or spring poses minimal fire risk.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2025

Smartphone-based earthquake detection and early warning system rivals traditional, seismic network based alternatives

A global Android smartphone-based earthquake detection and early warning system detects seismic activity in real time and delivers effective alerts, rivaling traditional seismic networks. The system, which harnesses the power of existing smartphones, has collected voluntary feedback through user surveys, indicating that 85% of recipien...

Study identifies potential therapeutic strategy to prevent complications from sickle cell disease

A new study by Mass General Brigham investigators identified an ancient immune pathway that is activated in patients with acute chest syndrome (ACS) and serves as a key driver of the disease. Blocking this pathway with clinically approved drugs alleviated disease severity in preclinical models.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2025

Shedding new light on invisible forces: hidden magnetic clues in everyday metals unlocked

Researchers develop new method to detect subtle magnetic signals in common metals like copper, gold, and aluminum, using a laser and large-amplitude modulation of the external magnetic field. This breakthrough could lead to advances in semiconductor industry, spintronic devices, and quantum systems.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2025

A study from the UJI reveals how the brain interprets social relationships and emotions through the anterior temporal lobe

A study from the UJI reveals how the brain interprets social hierarchies and emotional facial expressions through the anterior temporal lobe. The upper part of this region is strongly activated when individuals make decisions based on emotional facial expressions, particularly in those with high levels of anxiety.

SourceUniversitat Jaume I·JournalSLEEP·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 17, 2025

Highest solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency in Cu2ZnSnS4 photocathodes and its directly unbiased solar seawater splitting

Researchers have introduced a new method to overcome defect limitations and enhance the performance of CZTS photocathodes, delivering a record half-cell solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 9.91% in natural seawater. The device also sustains high photocurrent and exhibits corrosion resistance against chloride ions and dissolved oxygen.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2025

Specialty of the house: Neanderthals at two nearby caves butchered the same prey in different ways, suggesting local food traditions

Scientists think Neanderthals passed down different food preparation practices to neighboring groups, resulting in distinct butchery strategies. The differences in cut-mark patterns between Amud and Kebara caves may reflect unique cultural traditions of animal carcass processing.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Archaeology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2025

What is chronic venous insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a prevalent condition in older adults, associated with an increased risk for heart issues, including cardiovascular disease and mortality. Early detection and treatment can significantly impact quality of life, and symptoms include edema, varicose veins, and skin changes.

Wild pigs are costing Georgia farmers

New UGA research reveals wild pigs are a significant cause of damage on farms and crops, with estimated losses of $107,000 per year. The invasive species' high birth rate and ability to uproot seeds and trample plants make them a destructive force in Georgia agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCrop Protection·DateJul 17, 2025

UCalgary led research helps kids with acute gastroenteritis recover at home

A UCalgary-led study found that providing anti-vomiting medication to children with frequent vomiting from an intestinal infection helps them recover at home. The research identified ondansetron as an effective treatment approach for these children, reducing the need for hospitalization and improving symptom management.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 17, 2025

Sunny side up for eggs and cholesterol

A new study from the University of South Australia confirms that eggs are not high in cholesterol and do not contribute to cardiovascular disease. In contrast, saturated fat intake was found to increase LDL levels, highlighting the importance of dietary balance for heart health.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeCase study·DateJul 17, 2025

Pusan National University researchers explore how generative AI can streamline fashion design

Researchers used generative AI models like ChatGPT and DALL-E to analyze men's fashion trends and create realistic fashion collection images. The study highlights the importance of expertly worded prompts for accurate fashion design implementation, enabling efficient and creative use of generative AI in fashion.

SourcePusan National University·JournalClothing and Textiles Research Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 17, 2025

Korea University study proposes first toxicity-based exposure limits proposed for indoor airborne fungi

A new Korea University study provides the first species-specific health risk estimates for indoor airborne microbes based on animal toxicity data. The research determines that exposure to fungi may be unsafe even at levels below current guidelines, while bacteria are within existing regulatory limits.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2025

How do the SOx and NOx in flue gas influence the adsorptive-catalytic performance of integrated carbon capture and in situ dry reforming?

Researchers found that low concentrations of SO2 and NO2 in flue gas improve CO2 capture stability, but high concentrations lead to decreased adsorption capacity and catalytic reforming ability. The study suggests that coating layers of calcium-containing compounds on Ni nanoparticles contribute to deactivation.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2025

From passive to intelligent: Bioengineered organs meet electronics

Recent advances in biofabrication and biomedical electronics have led to the development of biohybrid-engineered tissue (BHET) platforms, turning passive constructs into intelligent systems. These platforms show promise in diverse applications, including brain organoids and cardiac tissues, blurring the line between biology and machine.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateJul 17, 2025

Tracking Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation using benthic foraminifera

Researchers used benthic foraminifera to study the link between Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) strength and oxygen content in the eastern tropical North Atlantic. The study found that weaker AMOCs are associated with more oxygen in the oxygen-minimum zone, which has implications for marine ecosystems.

World Health Organization reporting system for soft tissue cytopathology

The WHO Reporting System for Soft Tissue Cytopathology provides a standardized classification system to improve diagnostic accuracy and guide clinical decision-making. The system aligns with the WHO Classification of Soft Tissue and Bone Tumours and incorporates cytomorphologic features, ancillary studies, and clinical correlation.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Pathology·DateJul 17, 2025

Illinois plant ecologists fight to restore Midwest biodiversity

Researchers at the University of Illinois are working to bring back biodiversity to the Midwest by analyzing commercially sold seeds and plants. They found that long-lived species were more available than sensitive ones, and certain plant groups were over- or underrepresented in commercial seed mixes.

New study in JAMA Network Open shows current approaches to assessing preeclampsia risk are failing the majority of pregnant moms

A new study found that US Preventive Services Task Force guidelines identify nearly 89% of pregnancies at increased risk, but leave 70.3% in the moderate risk category with nonspecific recommendations for aspirin use. The study suggests that these guidelines may influence clinicians' decisions regarding daily aspirin recommendations.

SourceMirvie·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2025

KAIST reveals for the first time the mechanism by which alcohol triggers liver inflammation

A KAIST research team has identified a new molecular mechanism in which alcohol-damaged liver cells increase reactive oxygen species, leading to cell death and inflammatory responses. They discovered that Kupffer cells act as a 'dual-function regulator' that can either promote or suppress inflammation through interactions with liver ce...

Multiscale decomposition and hybrid models for wind forecasting

Recent AI applications in wind speed prediction have improved accuracy and stability. Hybrid models combining shallow and deep learning approaches enhance robustness and long-term pattern extraction. The review emphasizes the role of multi-objective optimization in balancing prediction accuracy, efficiency, and model interpretability.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvances in Wind Engineering·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 17, 2025

Barcelona could suffer heat waves up to 6ºC more intense by the end of the century

A study predicts that Barcelona will experience extreme and dry heat periods with temperature increases of up to 4ºC and a general reduction in relative humidity. The research forecasts an increase in average maximum temperatures of 4ºC and average minimum temperatures of 3.5ºC if greenhouse gas emissions are not drastically reduced.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 17, 2025