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Science News for July 3, 2025


Machine learning potential-driven insights into pH-dependent CO₂ reduction

A team of researchers at Tohoku University's AIMR used machine learning potential to characterize Sn catalyst activity, identifying the most effective catalysts for CO2 reduction. The study provides novel insights into the behavior of Sn-based catalysts and could lead to more efficient fuel production.

Researchers take heat sink experiments to space

A team of researchers has developed a heat sink system using a wax-based phase change material to efficiently cool electronics in space. The system has shown promising results in its first satellite experiments, with the melting wax significantly increasing the time that electronics can operate within a safe temperature range.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·DateJul 3, 2025

How game-play with robots can bring out their human side

A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that interacting with robots through social games makes them seem more human-like. The researchers used a box-shaped robot called Cozmo and found that participants who played games with it considered it more human-like, whereas those who interacted mechanically did not.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 3, 2025

HKU psychology research reveals how AI is becoming a new social presence that could change human relationships and brain functions

A recent study published in Neuron suggests that humans tend to treat AI chatbots like social beings, attributing them with personality and feelings. This phenomenon called anthropomorphism may shape our interactions with AI and influence how our brains function in social contexts.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNeuron·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2025

New UK population-based study highlights the strengths of LGBT adolescents

A new UK population-based study reveals that LGBT adolescents exhibit unique strengths, particularly in social connections and caring attributes. The study applies the 5Cs model to compare experiences across different gender and sexuality groups, highlighting the importance of emphasizing challenges faced by minoritised groups.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2025

Deepening stirling engine analysis: optimized model offers more accurate performance predictions

Researchers optimized Stirling cycle analysis to capture real-world behavior, accounting for energy dissipation factors and improving engine efficiency. The study validated the model against experimental data from established engines, providing critical reference support for compact energy systems.

SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 3, 2025

Native habitats hold the key to the much-loved smashed avocado’s future

Research by Curtin University reveals that native habitats near farmland can enhance insect diversity, supporting pollination and crop resilience. The study's findings offer a potential solution to safeguarding global food security for the growing population, which will require increased agricultural productivity by 25-75% by 2050.

SourceCurtin University·JournalEnvironmental and Sustainability Indicators·DateJul 3, 2025

Listening to each other

A research team at the University of Göttingen has discovered that embryonic cells coordinate their behavior through molecular mechanisms previously known from hearing processes. The study reveals how neighboring cells synchronize their movements to pull together with greater force, ensuring rapid development and tissue protection.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

Benefits and risks: informal use of antibiotics to prevent sexually transmitted infections on the rise in key populations in the Netherlands

A recent study in the Netherlands found 15% of men who have sex with men and transgender individuals recently used doxycycline as post- or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), highlighting an increase in informal use. The high intention to use PrEP among the population raises concerns about potential antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and chan...

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeSurvey·DateJul 3, 2025

Sturgeon reintroduction initiative yields promising first-year survival rate

Early signs are promising for the sturgeon reintroduction initiative in the Maumee River, with annual survival rates ranging from 19% to 71%. Researchers track fish survival and movement using acoustic transmitters, suggesting the initiative is on track to achieve its goal of a self-sustaining population of naturally reproducing lake s...

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalNorth American Journal of Fisheries Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

A Journal of Environmental Sciences study investigates trees best suited for cities

Researchers used a data-driven approach to filter out ideal tree species for urban forests, mapping carbon stock and biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) emissions of six dominant urban tree species in Beijing. The study identified two optimal species: Betula platyphylla for high-altitude areas and Robinia pseudoacacia for urban...

SourceEditorial Office of Journal of Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Environmental Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2025

CNIC scientists reveal how the cellular energy system evolved—and how this knowledge could improve the diagnosis of rare genetic diseases

Researchers have uncovered the evolutionary logic of the OxPhos system and developed a tool to detect mutations causing mitochondrial disease. ConScore, a predictive index assesses clinical relevance of mutations in OxPhos proteins.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

HKUMed develops combined therapy integrating Chinese herb astragalus and methotrexate to overcome drug resistance in autoimmune diseases

Researchers at HKUMed found combining Astragalus membranaceus with methotrexate reduces chronic inflammation in autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus. The combination therapy shows significant synergistic effects, enhancing treatment outcomes and addressing therapeutic limitations of MTX.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalActa Pharmacologica Sinica·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

New study shows link between childhood health and risk of disease in men in later life

A new study found that childhood health factors, such as being overweight or having chickenpox, can increase the risk of chronic disease in men later in life. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 young men and found a significant association between these childhood factors and reduced adult insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) levels.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalAndrology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2025

Blood Type A linked to higher risk of hypertension and diabetes in the Chakhesang tribe of Nagaland

Research found a strong association between blood type A and increased risk of hypertension and diabetes among the Chakhesang Naga tribe. Genetic analysis suggests a potential genetic predisposition, highlighting the importance of considering genetic and environmental factors in health outcomes.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalLabMed Discovery·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2025

Certain young people more prone to anxiety and depression

A new study published in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology found that adolescents with both loneliness and low resilience are more likely to develop anxiety and depression as adults. Health professionals can identify and intervene early, using screening and targeted programs to promote social skills and build resilience.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2025

On-line detection of additive concentrations in acidic copper plating solution for metal interconnection by an electrochemical microfluidic workstation

A novel electrochemical microfluidic workstation detects additive concentrations in acidic copper plating solution with average relative errors below 10%. The system reduces single-test solution consumption to 220 microliters, enabling online monitoring of process stability and reliability.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

Social outcomes among adults with hearing aids and cochlear implants

A systematic review and meta-analysis reveals that adults with hearing loss can enhance social engagement and functional outcomes by using hearing aids or cochlear implants. The study suggests that these devices should be encouraged for individuals with hearing loss to potentially improve their quality of life.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateJul 3, 2025

Special issue of Journal of Intensive Medicine analyzes non-invasive respiratory support

A special issue of Journal of Intensive Medicine provides key insights into selecting optimal non-invasive respiratory support strategies for AHRF, featuring review articles and original research. The collection offers guidance on the efficacy of HFNC, CPAP, NIV, and awake prone positioning to improve patient outcomes.

SourceJournal of Intensive Medicine·JournalJournal of Intensive Medicine·DateJul 3, 2025

Review article highlights urgent need for aflatoxin control strategies in Pakistan’s feed supply chain

A review article highlights the prevalence of aflatoxins in livestock feed and their residues in food products in Pakistan. The study emphasizes the urgent need for aflatoxin control strategies to mitigate adverse health effects on both livestock and human health, including genotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and carcinogenicity.

SourceCABI·JournalCABI One Health·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 3, 2025

Do red squirrels and dormice get along?

A study by University of Göttingen researchers found that mixed deciduous-conifer forests promote coexistence between red squirrels and dormice. The team observed both species living side by side in these forests, suggesting a potential role for mixed forest management in supporting biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2025

Improving predictions of flood severity, place and time with AI

Researchers at Penn State have developed a computational model that uses big data and physical readings to simulate and predict water movement. The model, which incorporates artificial intelligence, offers predictions at unprecedented levels of efficiency and accuracy compared to traditional models.

SourcePenn State·JournalWater Resources Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 3, 2025

Many people choose unemployment benefits over poorly paid jobs

A Norwegian University of Science and Technology study published in PLOS One found that extremely low minimum wages and unemployment benefits can discourage people from working. The 'work incentive principle' aims to create a financial advantage for working over receiving benefits, but when both are very low, it loses its effectiveness.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPLOS One·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 3, 2025

What a bumble bee chooses to eat may not match ideal diet

A new study led by Penn State researchers suggests that bumble bees' dietary preferences do not necessarily reflect their optimal nutritional needs. Despite choosing diets high in certain nutrients, the bees experienced negative fitness outcomes, including decreased egg-laying and unchanged body mass.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Insect Physiology·DateJul 3, 2025

Understanding the role of pigmentation in hereditary hearing loss

A study published in Neurobiology of Disease found that melanin degradation is impaired in genetically engineered mice lacking the SLC26A4 gene, leading to chronic inflammation and macrophage activation. The researchers propose a novel pathological cascade where melanin accumulation exacerbates hearing loss in pigmented individuals.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

Queen Mary scientists developing world’s first clinical test for selecting personalized rheumatoid arthritis treatments

Queen Mary University of London scientists have invented a method to predict patient response to biological therapies, reducing the risk of ineffective treatments and improving patient wellbeing. The approach uses gene sequencing and machine learning on joint tissue samples to forecast treatment outcomes.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 3, 2025

New research confirms that neurons form in the adult brain

Researchers from Karolinska Institutet have identified proliferating neural progenitors in the adult human hippocampus, confirming ongoing neuron formation. This discovery has implications for understanding brain changes during life and developing regenerative treatments for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

HKU research reveals “Anxious Monday” effect: chronic stress hormone surge linked to start of week in older adults

A study by the University of Hong Kong found that Mondays uniquely drive long-term biological stress in older adults, with a significant increase in stress hormone levels up to two months later. The 'Anxious Monday' effect is linked to dysregulation of the body's stress response system and has implications for heart health.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2025

States that empower advanced practice registered nurses have better health outcomes, new study finds

A new study by University of Missouri researchers found that states granting full practice authority to APRNs significantly improves health outcomes and increases access to care. In contrast, restricted practice laws impose financial burdens on patients and limit APRN autonomy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2025

New framework shows brute-force search is inevitable for certain Boolean puzzles, improving cryptography and AI strategies

Researchers demonstrate that brute-force search is necessary for specific computer puzzles, highlighting the importance of focusing on tractable instance classes. The study's findings have implications for fields like encryption, artificial intelligence, and scheduling.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

Multiresistant intestinal bacteria: Displacement through food competition

A study by HZI researchers showed that specific strains of E. coli can displace multi-resistant bacteria from the gut, potentially preventing infections and containing their spread. The strains, which were tested in a mouse model, also proved effective against other resistant strains when combined with Klebsiella oxytoca.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

Hearing devices significantly improve social lives of those with hearing loss

A study from the University of Southern California found that adults with hearing loss who used hearing aids or cochlear implants were more socially engaged and felt less isolated compared to those who didn't use them. The researchers also found that these devices can help reduce loneliness and improve social quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateJul 3, 2025

A perfect fit: A Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study shows that Neuroform Atlas stent-assisted coiling is effective even in smaller arteries

A study published in Chinese Neurosurgical Journal found that the Neuroform Atlas stent-assisted coiling procedure is safe and effective for treating intracranial aneurysms in arteries less than 2.5 mm in diameter, with favorable outcomes and low postoperative complication rates.

SourceChinese Neurosurgical Journal·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2025

A breakthrough in motor safety: AI-powered warning system enhances capability to uncover hidden winding faults

Researchers developed an AI-integrated diagnostic method that detects electrical faults in multiphase motors, enabling precise real-time severity grading. The method reduces maintenance costs and prevents undetected motor short circuits from escalating into life-threatening electrical fires.

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

HKU Dentistry develops world’s first AI system for single-tooth prediction of early childhood caries detection with over 90% accuracy

A team of researchers from HKU Dentistry has developed a groundbreaking AI system that can predict early childhood caries risk for individual teeth based on microbial characteristics. The system achieved an accuracy rate of over 90% and identified distinct patterns in tooth-specific microbial communities that foretell dental decay.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

Ireland’s first BioBrillouin microscope will enable non-invasive assessment of living cells and tissues in real-time

The new microscope allows researchers to map and quantify the mechanical properties of biological tissues without interfering with them, enabling real-time monitoring. This breakthrough technology has far-reaching implications for fields such as inflammation, cancer, developmental biology, and biomedical materials.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 3, 2025

Using lightning to make ammonia out of thin air

University of Sydney researchers have developed a method to produce ammonia in gas form using electricity, offering a more sustainable alternative to the current Haber-Bosch process. This new approach reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, making it a promising solution for the agricultural and hydrogen industries.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

Study explores the ‘social norms’ of distracted driving among teens

A new study from Mass General Brigham researchers found that an average of 21% of teen drivers engage in distracted driving, with many believing their peers drive distracted due to social norms. The study suggests encouraging strategies like 'Do Not Disturb' mode and ensuring teens get adequate sleep can mitigate this behavior.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalTraffic Injury Prevention·TypeSurvey·DateJul 3, 2025

The death of a partner and financial stress have been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and differences in brain structure

A recent study suggests that stressful life events can impact brain health differently depending on gender and educational level. The death of a partner was associated with changes in biomarkers related to Alzheimer's disease, while unemployment and economic losses were linked to structural differences in the brain.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalNeurology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2025

Connect or reject: Extensive rewiring builds binocular vision in the brain

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that neurons in mice brain rewire and refine their connections to integrate visual signals from both eyes over a 10-day period. The researchers found that only 40% of the initial synapses survived, with 24% added and 27% removed, indicating an extensive process of synaptic turnover.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025

Prizewinner’s research reveals how immune responses to friendly skin microbiota could pave way for novel vaccination responses

Researchers have discovered a sophisticated immune response to beneficial skin microbes that could pave the way for innovative vaccine strategies. By harnessing this preemptive immunity, scientists may develop novel, needle-free vaccinations that protect against pathogens without causing inflammation or disrupting physical barriers.

Bisulfite-free whole-genome mapping of 5-methylcytosine at single-base resolution by NTD-seq

Researchers have created a novel sequencing technology, NTD-seq, that enables the direct mapping of 5-methylcytosine in genomic DNA. The method, which uses an enzyme to deaminate cytosine and preserve 5mC, shows strong concordance with existing maps and offers a powerful tool for studying epigenetic modifications.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2025