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Science News for June 30, 2025


Researchers identify genetic bottlenecks that explain the emergence of cholera

Researchers have identified genetic bottlenecks that explain the emergence of pandemic cholera strains. These specific combinations of genes and allelic variants grant an advantage in human intestinal colonization, allowing a small subset of Vibrio cholerae to become deadly pathogens.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Your genes reveal if anxiety medicine will help you or not

A new study by researchers from Germany, Sweden, and Denmark has found a way to predict which drugs will have an effect on anxiety or depression using polygenic risk scores. The study, led by professor Fredrik Åhs, used genetic data to identify individuals who were more likely to benefit from certain medications.

SourceAarhus University·JournalBiological Psychiatry Global Open Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 30, 2025

Strategies for staying smoke-free after rehab

A Flinders University study found that providing consistent support and access to nicotine replacement therapies can help people in recovery quit smoking. The trial showed that both vapes and combination therapy were effective, with around 10% of participants abstaining from smoking at the nine-month follow-up.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 30, 2025

How deep learning helps your phone navigate when GPS goes dark

Researchers developed a novel framework that enables smartphones to accurately estimate position in tunnels and underground parking structures using inertial sensors. The system, called Data- and Model-Driven Vehicle Dead Reckoning (DMDVDR), achieved impressive horizontal positioning error rates of less than 0.5% in realistic driving s...

Elaborate search for a new force

Researchers at ETH Zurich and international teams use precision atomic spectroscopy to detect a hypothetical force in atoms. The team measured energy shifts in isotopes with high accuracy, setting bounds on the mass and charge of the new particle.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 30, 2025

Dysregulated epigenetic memory in early embryos offers new clues to the inheritance of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

A recent study found that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have embryos carrying a unique 'epigenetic memory' that could explain why the condition often runs in families. Treating affected embryos with certain inhibitors showed promise in restoring normal gene activity, suggesting a potential therapeutic avenue.

New way to improve the efficacy of innovative RNA therapies

Researchers discovered that slowing down intracellular transport of RNA-based drugs increases their effectiveness in treating genetic diseases. The study identified key genes involved in endosomal transport and found that selectively switching off a specific gene can prolong ASO residence time, boosting therapeutic efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 30, 2025

Bacteria hijack tick cell defenses to spread disease

Researchers at Washington State University discovered how bacteria hijack cellular processes in ticks to ensure their survival and spread to new hosts, including humans. By manipulating the ATF6 protein, the bacteria exploit the tick's natural process of producing cholesterol, which is essential for bacterial growth and survival.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

THC undetectable after withdrawal period in cows fed hemp byproduct

A new study found that cows fed hemp byproduct for 28 days and then withdrawn from the diet for four weeks have undetectable levels of psychoactive THC in their milk. The findings could pave the way for the use of spent hemp biomass as a feed supplement for livestock, providing an economic value to hemp producers.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Global first in surgical training: SURGhub reaches record 19,000 healthcare workers across 190 countries — meeting soaring demand in underserved regions

SURGhub has transformed surgical education in low-resource and conflict-affected regions by reaching over 19,000 healthcare workers with high-quality training. The platform's accessibility and culturally relevant content are bridging a gap that has left millions without access to safe surgical care when needed.

SourceRCSI·JournalWorld Journal of Surgery·DateJun 30, 2025

Platform feedstock chemicals from global warming gas: a new paradigm in carbon utilization

Researchers developed an electrochemical conversion technology that achieves unprecedented performance in CO2-to-alcohol conversion, achieving a Faraday efficiency of 66.9%. The technology selectively produces allyl alcohol, a multi-carbon high-value-added compound, with potential applications in various industries.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Breathable yet protective: Next-gen medical textiles with micro/nano networks

Researchers developed breathable and protective HPPT materials with micro/nano-network structures, balancing protection and comfort in medical clothing. The new materials demonstrate exceptional performance, positioning them as promising candidates for next-generation healthcare and wearable protection.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

UM School of Medicine research reveals alarming health and resource burden of sleep apnea among U.S. active-duty military

A new study by the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that soldiers with sleep apnea are at increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury compared to those without the condition. The study also shows a higher risk of musculoskeletal injuries among service members with sleep apnea.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalCHEST Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 30, 2025

Groundbreaking cancer therapy clinical trial with US Department of Energy’s accelerator-produced actinium-225 set to begin this summer

The US Department of Energy's Isotope Program will supply a U.S. company with accelerator-produced actinium-225 for the first FDA-approved targeted cancer therapy clinical trial. This milestone marks a new pipeline for this lifesaving isotope, addressing its limited production due to complex manufacturing.

Urban gardening mitigates climate change

Urban gardens in Warsaw contribute to better carbon dioxide absorption, air pollution reduction, and the mitigation of urban heat-island effect. They also improve water efficiency, reduce flood risk, and promote social capital.

SourceSWPS University·JournalMiscellanea Geographica·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2025

Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus encodes additional small proteins with specific subcellular localizations and virulence function

Researchers uncover additional small open-reading frames in the negative RNA of tobamoviruses, which encode proteins with distinct subcellular localizations and play critical roles in viral infection. These findings expand our understanding of tobamovirus protein synthesis and reveal peroxisomes as novel virulence targets.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateJun 30, 2025

Genomes reveal the Norwegian lemming as one of the youngest mammal species

Researchers at Stockholm University have uncovered the evolutionary history of the Norwegian lemming, revealing it to be one of the most recently evolved mammal species. The study found that the Norwegian and Siberian lemmings diverged approximately 35,000 years ago, with no evidence of interbreeding between them.

SourceStockholm University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Early birds get the burn: Monash study finds early bedtimes associated with more physical activity

A Monash University-led study found that going to bed earlier is associated with higher levels of physical activity the next day. Participants who went to bed at 9pm recorded nearly 30 minutes more moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily compared to those who stayed up until 1am.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2025

Pusan National University scientists uncover gene mutation tied to poor outcomes in transplant patients

Scientists from Pusan National University discovered a genetic biomarker, FCGBP, that is strongly linked to bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome and poor outcomes following lung transplantation. The finding may help identify high-risk patients and devise timely immunosuppressive treatments.

SourcePusan National University·JournalThe Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Frequency-engineered MXene supercapacitors enable efficient pulse charging in TENG–SC hybrid systems

Researchers developed frequency-responsive supercapacitors using h-MXene/C electrodes, which overcome TENG-SC hybrid system compatibility issues. The study demonstrates efficient pulse charging and AC line filtering capabilities, paving the way for self-powered electronics and high-performance energy storage materials.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Reviewing the value of fucoxanthin as an ingredient in cosmeceutical applications

Fucoxanthin reduces oxidative stress, stimulates procollagen production, and inhibits matrix metalloproteinases, suggesting its potential to prevent skin aging and improve skin structure. Animal studies confirm its protective effects against UV-induced damage and wrinkle formation.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 30, 2025

LHAASO unveils galactic treasure map: breakthroughs in ultra-high-energy gamma-ray astronomy

LHAASO's groundbreaking results unveil a panoramic view of ultrahigh-energy gamma rays within the Milky Way, providing new insights into cosmic ray origins and extreme astrophysical processes. Four new discoveries include star-forming regions, pulsar wind nebulae, and young massive star clusters.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Physics Mechanics and Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2025

An overview of AI in biofunctional materials

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the design and synthesis of biofunctional materials for medical applications. Machine learning models can predict material properties with over 90% accuracy, enabling faster and more cost-effective discovery.

SourceELSP·JournalBiofunctional Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 30, 2025

Tens of thousands of heart attacks and strokes could be avoided each year if cholesterol-lowering drugs were used according to guidelines

A new study found significant gaps between recommended and actual use of cholesterol-lowering drugs, with nearly half of eligible patients not taking them. Closing these gaps could prevent tens of thousands of heart attacks, strokes, and bypass surgeries annually, saving up to $30.6 billion in medical costs.

Fact or fiction? The ADHD info dilemma

A study found that exposure to inaccurate ADHD-related content on TikTok significantly reduced students' accurate understanding of the disorder. Participants who viewed factually incorrect content showed lower accuracy in their ADHD knowledge but reported greater confidence in it afterwards, leading to increased motivation for treatment.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalEuropean Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 30, 2025

The bold place bets on the VIX

Researchers found that higher VIX levels are associated with more robust returns, suggesting that investors should hold onto stocks during times of high volatility. In contrast, a proposed strategy to reduce equity exposure during high VIX periods underperformed the market, according to the study.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEconometrics·DateJun 30, 2025

Montana State geologist’s Antarctic research focuses on accumulations of rare earth elements

A study by Montana State University geologist Zachary Burton examines the movement and accumulation of rare earth elements in salt ponds in an arid, partially permafrost region of Antarctica. The research may help understand how these materials behave and accumulate in cold regions elsewhere, including Greenland and Ukraine.

SourceMontana State University·JournalCold Regions Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Achieving 20% efficiency in halogen-free organic solar cells via isomeric additive-mediated sequential processing

Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University have made a groundbreaking discovery in organic solar cells, achieving 20% power conversion efficiency using non-halogenated solvents. The team's novel additive engineering strategy enables precise control of film morphology, leading to enhanced crystallinity and long-term stability.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Shape memory polymer dry adhesive technology paves the way for micro-LED innovation

Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology developed a novel dry adhesive technology using shape memory polymers, allowing for precise micro-LED chip transfer with minimal residue. The technology offers significant advantages over conventional methods, including high adhesion strength and easy release.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 30, 2025

Genetic ancestry linked to risk of severe dengue

Researchers found that individuals with European ancestry have a higher inflammatory response to the dengue virus, which can lead to severe disease. In contrast, those with African ancestry have a lower inflammatory response, making them less susceptible to severe dengue fever. The study's findings could lead to precision medicine appr...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2025

New study challenges assumptions about single-food interventions for blood sugar control in persons at risk of type 2 diabetes

A new international study found that replacing regular bread with oat β-glucan-enriched bread did not significantly improve long-term blood sugar control. The CarbHealth study involved nearly 200 participants and aimed to test whether a simple dietary swap could yield measurable health benefits.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalClinical Nutrition·DateJun 30, 2025

UCLA researchers uncover key mechanism of brain repair in vascular dementia, revealing promising therapeutic target

Researchers at UCLA Health have made a groundbreaking discovery about the mechanisms underlying vascular dementia. They found that targeting inflammation in brain blood vessels can promote brain repair and functional recovery in mice. This breakthrough highlights a potential new treatment approach for this understudied form of dementia.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Landmark study investigates potential of Ambroxol, a cough medicine, to slow Parkinson’s-related dementia

Researchers at Lawson Research Institute are studying Ambroxol as a potential treatment for dementia linked to Parkinson's disease. The 12-month clinical trial found that Ambroxol was safe and reached therapeutic levels in the brain, potentially protecting against brain cell damage.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 30, 2025

sPGGM: a sample-perturbed Gaussian graphical model for identifying pre-disease stages and signaling molecules of disease progression

Researchers propose a new method called sPGGM to identify pre-disease stages and discover signaling molecules using optimal transport theory and Gaussian graphical models. The study demonstrates the robustness and effectiveness of sPGGM in capturing critical signals across various disease categories.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJun 30, 2025

Cool is cool wherever you are

Researchers found that cool people have similar personalities, with traits such as extraversion, hedonism, and power being universally perceived. The study explored how cool people differ from uncool and good people, finding some overlap in traits but also distinct characteristics.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Living materials now easier to build with a larger palette of ingredients

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a new method for creating engineered living materials, enabling the use of a wider variety of polymers that were previously toxic to live cells. This breakthrough allows for the creation of sustainable materials powered by sunlight and living microbes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2025

Commentary questions the potential benefit of levothyroxine treatment of mild hypothyroidism during pregnancy

A new study found low free thyroxine levels in pregnancy increased risk of gestational diabetes, but mild subclinical hypothyroidism was not associated with higher risks. Levothyroxine treatment may not be necessary for mild cases, and further clinical trials are needed to determine its potential benefits.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 30, 2025

AI models might spot pancreatic cancer at an early stage and predict the deadly disease’s prognosis

AI models have the potential to identify pancreatic cancer at its earliest stages, enabling doctors to assess risks and provide personalized treatment plans. The integration of AI in healthcare has the potential to revolutionize diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalBeni-Suef University Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 30, 2025

Meteorological satellites observe temperatures on Venus

Researchers used Japan's Himawari-8 and -9 meteorological satellites to track temporal changes in Venus' cloud-top temperature, finding variations in thermal tides and planetary-scale waves. The study provides a new avenue for long-term multiband monitoring of solar system bodies.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalEarth Planets and Space·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2025

Breakthrough resins speed up 3D printing with built-in material control

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a fast and precise 3D printing method that seamlessly merges soft and hard properties into a single object using different colors of light. This approach could pave the way for next-generation prosthetics, flexible medical devices, and stretchable electronics.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Vaccination as a new form of cardiovascular prevention: an ESC Clinical Consensus Statement

A new ESC Clinical Consensus Statement highlights vaccination as a crucial preventive strategy for reducing cardiovascular events following viral and bacterial infections. Vaccines are recommended for patients with chronic coronary syndromes and heart failure, particularly those at increased risk due to underlying medical conditions.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 30, 2025

Junggar basin sediments reveal interplay between Solar System chaos and Earth’s carbon cycle

Researchers analyzed Junggar Basin sediments, revealing a previously unrecognized 1.6-million-year cycle in the carbon isotope record, distinct from the current grand eccentricity cycle. This variation provides concrete geological evidence of Solar System chaos and its impact on Earth's climate and carbon cycle.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2025

Towards better communication schemes for IoT-driven societies

A research team developed an analytical model to evaluate the performance of grant-free communications schemes in densely populated IoT environments. They found that interference cancellation improved base station throughput but did not resolve the near-far problem, while power control addressed it but led to decreased overall network ...

SourceChiba University·JournalComputer Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2025

Optimizing surgical strategies through a nationwide trial: insights from a Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study

A landmark national study in China identifies the most effective treatment strategies for unruptured brain aneurysms, analyzing over 874,000 clinical entries and 42,000 radiological scans. The trial aims to guide patient-specific treatment strategies and inform healthcare planning in China's aging population.

SourceChinese Neurosurgical Journal·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 30, 2025

Tests to detect marijuana-impaired driving based on ‘pseudoscience’

Law enforcement use subjective tactics to detect marijuana impairment, but these methods have limited scientific basis. Scientists must get involved to develop reliable tools, and funding from legal marijuana sales could support research. A new perspective calls for a more evidence-based approach to road safety.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 30, 2025

Low-income patients experience greatest financial burden from health insurance claim denials

A new study by University of Massachusetts Amherst researchers found that low-income patients are less likely to contest denied health insurance claims and experience lower success rates when they do. The study recommends simplifying billing rules and creating user-friendly ways for patients to appeal denials.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 30, 2025