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Science News Archive July 2025 - Page 21


Page 21 of 54

How the brain controls its blood volume

Researchers discovered a two-step mechanism where inhibitory neurons release nitric oxide to rapidly dilate blood vessels, followed by slower, localized vasodilation via astrocyte activation. This breakthrough sheds light on how neural signals are translated into blood volume changes in brain imaging.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2025

Designing better brain shunts

Bioengineers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a computational model called BrainFlow that simulates cerebrospinal fluid flow in the presence of shunt implants, providing insight into optimal shunt design and placement for hydrocephalus patients.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2025

Staunch Anglican support for the Tory party acting as “buffer” against increasing political volatility, study shows

A new study by Dr. Ekaterina Kolpinskaya found that Anglicans are disproportionately stable in their affective and electoral support for the Conservative Party, acting as a 'pocket of resistance' to changes in partisan politics. This suggests that religion continues to be socially and politically influential in modern Britain.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalParliamentary Affairs·TypeSurvey·DateJul 21, 2025

Predicting kidney disease trajectories with a simple blood test

Researchers developed a serum proteomics-based prediction model to identify biomarkers involved in ADPKD progression. The study identified 29 proteins linked to immune system, fat transport, and metabolism, which can predict kidney function decline rate. This breakthrough could lead to more accurate and earlier diagnosis of ADPKD.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2025

Why do plants attack themselves? The secret of genetic conflict revealed​

A research team elucidated the mechanism inducing plant autoimmune responses and proposed a novel strategy for cultivar improvement. The study identified defects in protein structure as the cause of hybrid necrosis, which occurs due to an abnormal reaction of immune receptors during cross-breeding between plant hybrids.

EmoWELL

The EmoWELL video game has been shown to improve emotional management in young university students by helping them identify, understand, and manage their emotions. Participants who played the game demonstrated reduced use of strategies that worsen emotional distress and improved self-acceptance.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2025

Regular opioid use may increase dementia risk

A study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that regular opioid use is associated with a 20% increased risk of all-cause dementia and over 70% increased risk of dementia among those taking strong opioids. Regular opioid use was also linked to reduced brain volume, lower fluid intelligence, and higher risk of vascular dementia.

SourceShenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAlzheimer’s & Dementia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 21, 2025

Global study of more than 100,000 young people latest to link early smartphone ownership with poorer mental health in young adults

A global study of over 100,000 young people found that owning a smartphone before age 13 is associated with poor mind health and wellbeing in early adulthood. The study found correlations between early smartphone ownership and symptoms such as suicidal thoughts, aggression, detachment from reality, and low self-worth.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Human Development and Capabilities·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2025

NTU Singapore and Oxford scientists reveal how cells repair toxic DNA damage linked to cancer and premature ageing

Researchers at NTU Singapore and Oxford University have discovered a mechanism by which cells identify and repair highly toxic DNA damage, known as DPCs, that cause cancer, neurodegeneration, and premature ageing. The study reveals how SPRTN, a key repair enzyme, selectively targets DPC lesions, increasing its activity 67-fold.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2025

Study on “blue economy” shows interdependence between Brazil’s coastal and inland regions

A Brazilian study maps the direct and indirect impacts of marine resource-dependent economic activities, revealing strong connections between coastal and inland regions. The research highlights the importance of the blue economy in Brazil's GDP and employment, with regional specializations varying across states.

Scientists uncover hidden bone structures in the skin of Australian monitor lizards and it could unlock the secrets to their evolutionary success

Researchers uncover osteoderms in nearly half of all lizard species worldwide, shedding light on heat regulation, mobility, and calcium storage. This discovery reshapes the understanding of reptile evolution, suggesting that these skin bones evolved in response to environmental pressures.

SourceMuseum Victoria·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 20, 2025

New Science Bulletin review: Beijing Jiaotong University and Sichuan University explore AI-powered OLED material design

The review proposes a systematic AI-driven framework for OLED material design, offering theoretical guidance and practical pathways for intelligent materials development. Machine learning models are used to predict core optoelectronic properties, enabling rapid and accurate property prediction while providing structural insights that g...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 18, 2025

Less pain, more gain: A new recipe for safer, stronger mRNA vaccines

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania designed a new recipe for mRNA vaccines by adding phenol groups, which reduce inflammation and improve vaccine effectiveness. The modified lipids improved vaccine performance in various diseases, including COVID-19, cancer, and genetic diseases, with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2025