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Science News for May 12, 2025


Recent advances in photoneutron detection: High-precision measurement of photoneutron cross section data using the LCS source

Researchers at SLEGS have made high-precision measurements of the 27Al(γ,n) cross section, resolving existing data discrepancies and providing more accurate nuclear reaction models. The study's innovative detector design and laser Compton scattering beams enabled direct comparisons with global datasets.

SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Non-variceal extrahepatic portosystemic shunts: A review of pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment

Non-variceal extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (NVEPS) are abnormal vascular connections formed via neoangiogenesis due to sustained portal hypertension. They contribute to the development of portosystemic shunt syndrome, marked by progressive hepatic dysfunction and worsening Child-Pugh scores.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateMay 12, 2025

Addressing hearing loss may reduce isolation among the elderly

A new study found that providing hearing aids and advice on their use can help preserve social connections in older adults, reducing loneliness. The study showed that those treated for hearing loss retained one additional social connection over a three-year period compared to those who received no treatment.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 12, 2025

GLP-1 drugs are helpful for children who are living with severe obesity, data from Swedish clinic indicates

A new study published at the European Congress on Obesity suggests that GLP-1 agonist drugs can lead to a clinically relevant change in BMI for children with severe obesity. In this study, 30% of children who received GLP-1 drugs experienced a significant reduction in BMI, compared to around 27% of those who did not receive them.

Measles virus detected in Houston wastewater before cases were reported

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine used a sequencing-based approach to detect measles virus in Houston wastewater samples collected in early January 2025, two weeks before any reported cases. The method's high sensitivity and specificity suggest it can inform public health preparedness for potential outbreaks.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 12, 2025

Researchers identify roles of key genes in colon cancer development

A study published in Journal of Clinical Investigation found that the loss of SOX9 gene contributes to greater tumor invasion and poorer outcomes in mice. The team discovered that combined inactivation of SOX9 and APC results in more invasive tumors, highlighting the potential for targeting both genes as a future treatment strategy.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Do we need to reassess chemicals?

A team of Chinese researchers found that chlorinated volatile organic compounds on mineral dust particles can be converted into highly toxic polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans by sunlight. The study highlights the need to reassess the toxicity of commercial chemicals and their atmospheric conversions.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Mount Sinai researchers in semifinals of $101 million XPRIZE Healthspan, a competition seeking innovative approaches to aging well

The Mount Sinai team's NYC-Vita trial combines lifestyle and pharmaceutical interventions to rebalance the immune system and restore health in older adults. The ambitious effort aims to develop practical, science-driven interventions that extend life and restore energy, focus, and strength.

Safety and outcomes of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction with endobronchial valves under moderate sedation

This observational study found that bronchoscopic lung volume reduction with endobronchial valves under moderate sedation has a lower rate of complications, particularly pneumothorax, compared to general anesthesia. The procedure can be safely performed with similar efficacy as demonstrated in previous studies.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Translocated anterior mitral leaflet sparing is a viable treatment option for both degenerative and functional mitral valve disease

Researchers investigated the effectiveness of CCS-MVR in treating functional mitral regurgitation and degenerative mitral valve disease. The study found that this procedure can reduce left ventricle volumes while sparing the apparatus, suggesting its potential as a long-term treatment option.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Common neural underpinnings identified for sleep disturbances associated with obsessive-compulsive spectrum, chronic tic, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorders

A narrative review found disruptions in the cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical pathway and dysregulation of dopamine and GABA primary neurotransmitters in patients with obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders, chronic tic disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. This may lead to more effective treatments for sleep-relate...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateMay 12, 2025

Novel blood-based biomarker analysis provides insights to improve therapy decisions and treatment outcomes for patients with metastatic disease

Researchers identified platelets, C-reactive protein, and chromogranin A as markers that can predict the failure of hormone-sensitive prostate cancer treatment. The study also found that miR-375 expression and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio are negative predictors for therapy failure in castration-resistant prostate cancer patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Patients of an online obesity clinic achieved the same weight loss as those in clinical trials of semaglutide – but with much lower doses of the drug

Patients in an online obesity clinic achieved average weight loss of 16.7% after 64 weeks, similar to clinical trials of semaglutide, but using less than half the medication. The study found that personalized doses of semaglutide combined with behavioral therapy and support led to successful weight loss.

Comparison of the diagnostic accuracy between 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT and 18F-FDG PET/CT in the clinical stage IA of lung adenocarcinoma

The study found that 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT had higher maximum standardized uptake value and tumor-to-background ratio compared to 18F-FDG PET/CT for stage IA lung adenocarcinoma. This suggests that 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT may be more effective in detecting stage IA lung adenocarcinoma lesions.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

UMGCCC researchers share new findings on link between lifetime alcohol use and colorectal cancer and more at AACR 2025

Researchers found that current drinkers who consumed 14 or more drinks per week had a 25% higher risk of colorectal cancer compared to those who drank less than one drink per week. The study also presented data on a novel immunotherapy treatment for acute myeloid leukemia, showing greater success and fewer side effects.

Perioperative safety of simultaneous pulmonary resection and off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting: a retrospective analysis from a single institution

A retrospective analysis from the National Center for Respiratory Medicine found that off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting combined with pulmonary resection is safe during the perioperative period, reducing postoperative complications and hospitalization costs. This treatment method provides a new option for lung cancer patients wi...

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Building carbons like playing with “LEGO”?

Scientists are constructing novel three-dimensional (3D) carbon crystals with superhard, conducting, and porous properties through 'Lego'-style assembly of carbon units. Experimental breakthroughs have enabled the synthesis of various 3D carbon structures using different techniques.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 12, 2025

Tiny device promises new tech with a human touch

Engineers at RMIT University have invented a neuromorphic device that detects hand movement, stores memories, and processes information like a human brain without an external computer. The device uses molybdenum disulfide to capture light and process visual information instantly, enabling real-time decisions.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

The power of play for children with autism

Children with autism who engage in whole-body movement show improved executive functioning and cognitive performance compared to those who participate in sedentary play. The study, led by University of Delaware professor Anjana Bhat, found that exercise increases blood supply to the prefrontal cortex and enhances attention span and lea...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalDisability and Rehabilitation·DateMay 12, 2025

No increased risk of gynecological cancer with testosterone use after five years

A large-scale study published in eClinicalMedicine found that transmasculine and gender-diverse individuals who use testosterone for an average of five years do not have an increased risk of gynecological cancer. The research, which followed 1955 participants, suggests that hormone therapy may be safe for this group.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 12, 2025

Name diversity sheds light on ancient societies

Researchers analyzed personal names from archaeological findings to detect patterns of identity, openness, and change in ancient Hebrew societies. They found that the Kingdom of Israel had a more diverse naming landscape than Judah, indicating a more open and cosmopolitan society.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 12, 2025

In-situ atmospheric thermoelectric conversion on Mars

Researchers propose in-situ thermoelectric conversion on Mars, utilizing the abundant atmospheric gases for electricity generation and oxygen production. The technology shows promising environmental suitability and potential for significant weight reduction, enabling more efficient microreactors.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 12, 2025

Poor heart health increases risk of dementia for Black Americans

A new University of Georgia study found that Black Americans with high blood pressure and diabetes in midlife had significantly higher levels of a dementia-related biomarker over an 11-year period. Early intervention for these chronic health conditions could protect brain health and reduce neurodegenerative diseases later in life.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateMay 12, 2025

Comparative analysis of perioperative renal function in patients undergoing heart transplantation and left ventricular assist device implantation: a multicenter retrospective study

A multicenter retrospective study compared perioperative renal function in heart transplantation and LVAD implantation patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction, finding improved outcomes for those receiving the new device. The results suggest that LVAD implantation is a better choice for these patients.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

How roots forage for water

A new study reveals that plants prioritize water over gravity during drought conditions, suppressing gravitropism to become more hydrotropic. MIZ1 protein helps attenuate root gravitropism, enabling plants to search for water effectively.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Enhanced activity in the upper atmosphere of Sporadic E layers during the 2024 Mother’s Day super geomagnetic storm

A new study reveals that sporadic E layers were significantly enhanced during the recovery phase of the 2024 Mother's Day super geomagnetic storm. The phenomenon, which appears as thin and dense patches of ionized metals, was detected mainly over Southeast Asia, Australia, the South Pacific, and the East Pacific.

SourceKyushu University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 12, 2025

Rosiglitazone prevents the development of kindling by modulating inflammatory cytokine production and brain cell apoptosis in mice

This study investigates the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of rosiglitazone in preventing pentylenetetrazole-induced kindling in mice. Rosiglitazone delays seizure progression, reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and increases IL-10, indicating its potential as a therapeutic strategy for epilepsy management.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Exploratory Research in Pharmacology·DateMay 12, 2025

Let-7 is a key guardian of healthy lungs that keeps pulmonary fibrosis in check

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that Let-7 is a critical gene involved in lung repair and prevention of pulmonary fibrosis. The researchers found that when Let-7 is absent, injured lungs develop scarring and inflammation, highlighting the importance of this gene in maintaining healthy lung function.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Change your location to jumpstart creativity, study finds

A study of Nobel laureates found that frequent moves and working in multiple locations can significantly reduce the time before starting Nobel-prize winning work. The researchers estimated that moving every two years can decrease the time by two years, while being in multiple locations reduces it by 2.6 years.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Economic Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 12, 2025

Head-to-head trial compares weight loss drugs

A 72-week clinical trial found tirzepatide to be more effective than semaglutide in reducing body weight and waist circumference. The study demonstrated that tirzepatide's dual mechanism of action, mimicking both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, is key to its superior performance.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 12, 2025

From prehistoric resident to runaway pet: First tegu fossil found in the U.S.

A team of scientists has discovered a prehistoric tegu fossil in the US, revealing that these charismatic lizards were once native to North America. The fossil, dated to the Middle Miocene Climatic Optimum, is believed to have been present in present-day Georgia during a warm period, before global temperatures cooled and they disappeared.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalJournal of Paleontology·DateMay 12, 2025

Towards targeted catalyst optimization: Identifying rate-limiting steps in photocatalysis

Researchers introduce Onset Intensity for Temperature Dependence (OITD) to identify rate-limiting steps in photocatalytic reactions. The study reveals distinct rate-limiting behaviors for different materials, highlighting the importance of surface accessibility in optimizing photocatalytic material design.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMay 12, 2025

USC Dornsife researchers develop tool to break brain circuits with molecular precision

Researchers at USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences have developed a powerful new method for selectively and reversibly breaking connections between brain cells, targeting specific synapses without harming neurons. The technique, inspired by the brain's own system for recycling proteins, allows for the elimination of eith...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Clear waters, hidden toxins

Viruses that infect and kill toxic algal blooms can cause the release of high levels of toxin microcystin-LR into water, posing a significant risk to human health and ecosystems. The finding highlights the need for better understanding of these interactions to inform forecasting and mitigation strategies for harmful algal blooms.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalMicroorganisms·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Why so many microbes fail to grow in the lab

A new study from researchers at the Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity offers fresh insights into why many microorganisms fail to grow in the lab. The study suggests that the survival of microbes depends on a hidden web of relationships between species, which can collapse with small structural changes.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 12, 2025

Universe decays faster than thought, but still takes a long time

The researchers calculated that the universe will decay via Hawking-like radiation in approximately 10^78 years. This time frame applies to white dwarf stars and neutron stellar black holes, both of which take the same amount of time to evaporate. The findings contradict previous estimates and shed new light on the theory of relativity.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·DateMay 12, 2025

First head-to-head study in people living with obesity shows tirzepatide results in around 50% more weight loss than semaglutide

A new head-to-head study has shown that tirzepatide results in around 50% more weight loss than semaglutide in adults with obesity. The study found that tirzepatide led to an average weight loss of 20.2%, significantly higher than the 13.7% achieved with semaglutide.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 12, 2025

Semaglutide may provide early protection against heart disease in high-risk patients—even before clinically meaningful weight loss and prior to the full target dose

A new analysis of the SELECT trial shows semaglutide reduces major cardiovascular events by 40% within 3-6 months, even before significant weight loss and full target dose. The study found that semaglutide's effects on reducing inflammation, blood sugar, and blood pressure may contribute to its early clinical benefits.

Accelerating bacterial evolution in the laboratory

Researchers at the University of Tokyo accelerated bacterial evolution by activating 'jumping genes', resulting in rapid genome changes. The study sheds light on the role of insertion sequences and composite transposons in evolution, offering a new reference for future laboratory experiments.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Dongguk University scientists uncover novel battery design for industrial energy storage

Researchers at Dongguk University have created a graphene coating that supercharges zinc-ion batteries for grid use, overcoming safety issues and enabling high-performance industrial energy storage. The new technology supports roll-to-roll manufacturing, bringing affordable energy storage closer to commercialization.

SourceDongguk University Evaluation and Audit Team·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Monolithically integrated asynchronous optical recurrent accelerator

Researchers have developed a monolithically integrated asynchronous optical recurrent accelerator, mapping time sequences to wavelength channels for efficient parallel processing. This breakthrough improves computational efficiency without requiring high-speed electronic components for synchronization.

New agents with genome mining and mutagenesis

Scientists have identified previously unknown enzymes that initiate the formation of nitrogen-nitrogen bonds, enabling the synthesis of complex heterocycles. The discovery holds promise for developing new pharmaceutical agents with targeted environmental benefits.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Comparison of patient-reported outcomes after uniportal versus multiportal video-assisted thoracoscopic sub-lobar resection

The study found that the uniportal approach reduced postoperative symptom burden and produced better clinical outcomes in patients undergoing sub-lobar resection. Uniportal lobectomy was previously known to have a lower symptom burden compared to multiportal lobectomy.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Despite higher sensitivity, multitarget stool DNA tests not as cost-effective for early detection of CRC compared with FIT

Research finds that multitarget stool DNA tests have higher sensitivity than FIT, but are not as cost-effective for early detection of colorectal cancer. Costs per detected advanced neoplasia case or early-detected CRC case are 7- to 9-fold higher for MSDT-based and N-G MSDT-based screening.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMay 12, 2025

Like humans, ChatGPT favours examples and ‘memories’ – not rules – to generate language

A study found that large language models generalize language patterns in a surprisingly human-like way through analogy, relying on stored examples and drawing analogies when dealing with unfamiliar words. The models behave as if they have formed a memory trace from every individual example of every word encountered during training.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 12, 2025

Uncovering the evolution of Hezbollah’s political communication strategy

A study by Ritsumeikan University found that Hezbollah's political communication is shaped by institutional constraints and strategic considerations in Lebanon's consociational democracy. The party adopted a more critical stance during crises but became more cooperative with rivals after diplomatic relations were restored.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalNationalism and Ethnic Politics·TypeContent analysis·DateMay 12, 2025

OU researchers improve stability, efficiency of electrochemical devices important to sustainable energy production

Researchers from the University of Oklahoma have made significant breakthroughs in protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (PCECs), addressing challenges in manufacturing and efficiency. A new approach eliminates cerium-based materials, allowing pure barium zirconate-based electrolytes to remain stable at record-low temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Olympic anti-doping lab puts U.S. meat supply to the test

A comprehensive study by UCLA's Olympic Analytical Laboratory and Texas Tech University found that growth-promoting substances in US meat supply are present in trace amounts, well below regulatory limits. Most beef samples showed detectable levels of banned substances, but at safe levels for human consumption.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalDrug Testing and Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Young males, prior cigarette or e-cigarette users most likely to use oral nicotine pouches, Hollings researcher finds

A study led by MUSC Hollings Cancer Center researcher Amanda Palmer found that young males, especially those who have used cigarettes or e-cigarettes before, are more likely to use oral nicotine pouches. Although usage is relatively low, the trend suggests a potential beneficial alternative to combustible cigarettes.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 12, 2025

Summer in the city

Researchers at Kyoto University found that reducing urban heat release can control summertime local precipitation, with potential to mitigate extreme weather issues. By systematically decreasing sensible heat fluxes over urban areas, the team demonstrated a link between urban heat island effect reduction and less intense rainfall.

SourceKyoto University·JournalTheoretical and Applied Climatology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Comorbidities associated with adult asthma according to severity: analysis of data from the National Health Insurance Sharing Service

A study analyzing national health insurance data found that severe adult asthma increases the risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. This highlights the importance of considering comorbidities when managing asthma patients.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Diagnostic utility of endobronchial ultrasound elastography for detecting benign and malignant lymph nodes: a retrospective study

The study demonstrated the diagnostic utility of endobronchial ultrasound elastography for detecting benign and malignant lymph nodes. The combined index of elastography grading score and short diameter yielded an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.702, indicating moderate accuracy.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Efficacy and safety of pleurodesis for lung cancer patients with interstitial lung disease

Researchers investigated pleurodesis treatment for lung cancer patients with interstitial lung disease, finding an efficacy rate of about 70% with talc and minocycline. However, cases with partially expanded lungs or recent systemic prednisolone treatment increased the risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Civil defense units must invest in professionalization and own resources to face climate risks

A study proposes five action fronts for civil defense units to increase their organizational capacity, including professionalization and resource allocation. Municipalities face challenges such as monitoring urban expansion, lack of financial resources, and social participation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateMay 12, 2025

Sustainable method produces high-purity material for use in green hydrogen production

Researchers developed a simple, economical and environmentally friendly purification method for mullite-type bismuth ferrite, improving its efficiency in producing green hydrogen. The process uses light and glycerol to eliminate unwanted compounds, resulting in high-purity material suitable for photoelectrochemical reactions.

Helping birds and floating solar energy coexist

Researchers highlight the need to study floating solar projects' impacts on birds and other wildlife, aiming to avoid negative effects while promoting ecological benefits. The study suggests examining bird behavior interactions with floating PV systems and identifying risks and solution pathways for coexistence.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Water·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Detecting vibrational sum-frequency generation signals from molecules confined within a nanoscale gap using a tightly confined optical near-field

Researchers successfully integrated femtosecond-pulse VSFG spectroscopy with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) to detect VSFG signals from molecules in nanoscale gaps. Phase analysis revealed molecular orientation, and the technique's spatial confinement enabled detection of signals from a limited number of molecules.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025

Opioid prescribing standards changed practices in BC, but with caveats

The introduction of BC's opioid prescribing standard in 2016 led to a reduction in opioid prescriptions and doses, as well as declines in high-dose prescribing and coprescribing with benzodiazepines. However, this change also resulted in increased aggressive tapering of medications, which can lead to improper pain management.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 12, 2025