Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 14, 2025


UCF students’ AI system assists Orlando Health robotic surgeries

UCF students created an AI system, AIMS, to track surgical staples during robotic surgeries, reducing waste and improving sustainability. The technology was developed as part of the college's Senior Design capstone course and has been successfully tested in operating rooms at Orlando Health.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateMay 14, 2025

VR flight experience reduces fear of heights by action-based prediction of safety

A VR flight experience has been shown to reduce both physiological and subjective fear responses to heights. The degree of fear reduction correlates with the extent to which participants felt they could transition to a safe state through self-initiated actions.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Autistic people communicate just as effectively as others, study finds

Researchers found that social difficulties faced by autistic individuals are primarily due to differences in communication styles, rather than a lack of social ability. Autistic people often communicate more directly, but struggle with reading social cues, leading to varying conversation dynamics compared to non-autistic peers.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Satellite data from ship captures landslide-generated tsunami for the first time

Scientists have detected landslide-generated tsunamis using satellite data from a ship's receiver, providing life-saving information to coastal communities. The study shows the potential for this approach to improve tsunami detection and warning, confirming its effectiveness in detecting localized ground movement caused by landslides.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 14, 2025

McGill researchers lead project to reform youth mental health care in Canada

A new national project led by McGill University researchers has redesigned youth mental health services to significantly cut wait times and connect more young people to care. The ACCESS Open Minds program improved access and reduced delays, including for Indigenous and underserved communities, with most youth seen within three days.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeCase study·DateMay 14, 2025

Does adapting to a warmer climate have drawbacks?

A laboratory study found that zebrafish bred for high heat tolerance showed no trade-offs in reproduction, growth, or swimming ability. Contrary to expectations, increased heat tolerance didn't affect oxygen consumption or other key metrics, raising questions about the limitations of climate change on fish populations.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

These structures shrink when pulled

The study, published in PNAS, discovered a new type of behavior called 'countersnapping' where structures shrink when pulled. This finding has exciting applications in soft robotics, vibration control systems, and wearable exosuits, enabling one-way sliding motion, materials that switch stiffness on demand, and structures that dampen e...

SourceAMOLF·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Exercise the key to maintaining Vitamin D levels in winter, study finds

A new study from the University of Bath found that regular, moderate-intensity exercise preserves vitamin D levels in overweight and obese individuals. The study showed that exercise completely maintained the body's active form of vitamin D, which plays a key role in supporting bone health and the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 14, 2025

No car, no problem: Unlikely car-free families

A new study from the Hebrew University explores middle-class parents in Israel who choose to live car-free due to personal values like promoting children's independence and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These 'outlier' families offer valuable insights into reducing society's dependence on private vehicles, highlighting instrumental ...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of Transport Geography·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2025

Interplay between key proteins could serve as a target for cancer treatment

Researchers identified a balance between two proteins, STAT3 and STAT5, as crucial for making tumors vulnerable to immune checkpoint therapy. Targeting STAT3 degradation with molecules SD-36 and SD-2301 boosted immunity and increased STAT5 signaling, effectively treating large, advanced tumors.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Following the folds – with quantum technology

Researchers developed advanced quantum components using niobium nitride CCAs, which feature high kinetic inductance and are well-suited for superconducting applications. The topology of the CCAs plays a crucial role in their function, enabling new possibilities for quantum simulations and controlled model systems.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2025

Is it time to redefine the public health workforce? New research proposes a broader, more inclusive approach

A new paper calls for a redefinition of the public health workforce, recognizing professionals outside government agencies who contribute to public health. An intersectional framework proposes two tiers: Essential Public Health Services and Foundational Public Health Services.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMay 14, 2025

New nanoparticle could make cancer treatment safer, more effective

Researchers created a new nanoparticle that combines focused ultrasound and chemotherapy to destroy tumors more precisely and prevent recurrence. The treatment shows promising results in preclinical models, offering a potential breakthrough in cancer therapy.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 14, 2025

Marsupial research reveals how mammalian embryos form

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute investigated epigenetic changes in marsupial embryos, finding that DNA demethylation is not universally required for early mammalian development. Instead, this process may have evolved specifically to help form the placenta.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Special report highlights LLM cybersecurity threats in radiology

A new special report warns of LLM cybersecurity threats in radiology, highlighting the importance of implementing security measures to prevent malicious use. The report recommends robust security measures and best practices for safe integration of LLMs into healthcare.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology Artificial Intelligence·DateMay 14, 2025

Blood type a identified as potential breast cancer risk factor

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that individuals with blood type A have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those with blood type O. The research, which pooled data from over 13,000 breast cancer patients and 717,000 controls, suggests an 18% increased risk associated with blood type A.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 14, 2025
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Tiny gas bubbles reveal secrets of Hawaiian volcanoes

Researchers precisely mapped how magma storage changes as Hawaiian volcanoes age, revealing new insights into the volcanic pluming system. The study found that magma flow diminishes and shifts deeper underground as volcanoes move away from a heat-rich hotspot.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 2025

A new technique to use generative AI to design RNA

A new generative AI technique allows for the design of RNA molecules with improved functions, opening up potential for novel therapeutics and diagnostics. The SANDSTORM and GARDN systems enable the prediction and generation of RNA sequences tailored for specific tasks in cells or diagnostic assays.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2025
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Chimpanzees use medicinal leaves to perform first aid

In a groundbreaking study, scientists observed chimpanzees in Uganda using medicinal leaves to clean and treat their own and others' wounds. The research provides insight into the cognitive and social foundations of human healthcare behaviors, highlighting the potential for natural remedies and community care.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2025

New study shows AI can predict child malnutrition, support prevention efforts

A new AI-driven tool can forecast acute child malnutrition in Kenya up to six months in advance with high accuracy, enabling timely interventions. The model integrates clinical data and satellite information to identify emerging risk areas, providing a game-changing solution to address public health emergency in the country.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPLOS One·DateMay 14, 2025

10 things research tells us about the global economic elite

A unique database of 3,500 global economic elite individuals from 16 countries provides insights into their demographics, education, and influence on economies. The World Elite Database sheds light on the power dynamics of the world's wealthiest individuals and those with regulatory power.

SourceLund University·JournalBritish Journal of Sociology·DateMay 14, 2025

Got data? Breastfeeding device measures babies’ milk intake in real time

A new wearable device measures breast milk intake in real-time, providing clinical-grade monitoring of breastfed babies. The device eliminates uncertainty around milk consumption, reducing parental anxiety and improving clinical management for vulnerable babies in the NICU.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Daratumumab may help cancer patients with low physical function to live longer, study finds

A new study found that patients with lower physical function at treatment initiation receive the greatest survival benefit from daratumumab-based therapy, with a 47% reduced risk of death. In contrast, patients with high physical function show less pronounced benefits and experience increased cancer progression risks.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalEuropean Journal Of Haematology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 14, 2025

Gelada monkeys understand complex "conversations" involving distress calls and prosocial comforting responses, exhibiting surprise when such vocal exchanges are manipulated to violate their expectations

In a study published in PLOS, gelada monkeys demonstrated an understanding of complex vocal exchanges involving distress calls and prosocial comforting responses. The monkeys exhibited surprise when such vocal exchanges were manipulated to violate their expectations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·DateMay 14, 2025

Groups of AI agents spontaneously form their own social norms without human help, suggests study

A study suggests that groups of artificial intelligence language models can self-organise into societies, reaching consensus on linguistic norms, and are prone to tipping points in social convention. Collective biases emerge between agents through interactions, a blind spot in most current AI safety work.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2025

Rediscovering the first known cellular receptor

Researchers have reexamined the Ashwell-Morell receptor's functions using innovative glycoengineering techniques, clarifying its roles in sepsis and inflammation control. The study reveals that the receptor can bind to a specific type of protein glycan chain, which was previously thought to be incompatible with binding.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

An ink that boosts coral reef settlement by 20 times

Researchers have engineered a bio-ink that can promote coral larvae settlement and restore coral reefs. The ink, dubbed SNAP-X, slowly releases chemical cues into seawater, attracting coral larvae and encouraging them to settle on the reef. Testing showed that larvae were 20 times more likely to settle on substrates sprayed with SNAP-X.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Team develops digital lab for data- and robot-driven materials science

The dLab fully automates processes from material synthesis to analysis, enabling researchers to synthesize thin-film samples and measure their properties autonomously. This system demonstrates advanced automatic and autonomous material synthesis for data- and robot-driven materials science.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalDigital Discovery·DateMay 14, 2025
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

New insights into black hole scattering and gravitational waves unveiled

A landmark study has established a new benchmark in modeling black hole collisions and gravitational waves. The research provides unprecedented precision in calculations crucial to understanding gravitational waves, revealing Calabi-Yau three-fold periods within the radiated energy and recoil.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2025

A step forward in treating serious genetic disorders prenatally

A UC San Francisco-led study found that delivering medicine for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) via the amniotic fluid was safe and helped prevent damage to nerve cells. The therapy used molecules called antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), which can alter gene expression, and was tested in mice and sheep with promising results.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 14, 2025

Energy and memory: A new neural network paradigm

Researchers propose Input-Driven Plasticity model, which integrates past and new information to guide memory retrieval. The model is robust to noise and uses it as a means to filter out less stable memories.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 2025
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Barbies today are much less likely to be on their tip-toes than in past decades

A study analyzing 2,750 Barbie dolls found that the percentage of dolls with tip-toe posture decreased over time, while employed versions were more likely to have flat feet. Fashion-focused dolls were more likely to have tip-toe posture. The study suggests changing workforce roles and laws may reflect in Barbie's foot posture.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2025

Multi-directionally oriented collagen tissue fabrication achieved using 3D printing

Researchers from Yokohama National University have developed a method to fabricate complex oriented tissues with multiple directionality using 3D printing. This technique utilizes flow to orient collagen fibers and cells, allowing for the creation of fine, micro-oriented structures in both horizontal and vertical directions.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateMay 14, 2025

Vision loss, damage could be tied to eye pressure, study finds

A recent study found that mildly elevated eye pressure can distort blood vessels and lead to oxygen deficit in the eye. Researchers used 3D modeling and fluorescent dye to investigate how ocular hypertension affects the eye, revealing a potential new method for diagnosing glaucoma earlier.

SourceUniversity of Mississippi·JournalOphthalmology Science·DateMay 14, 2025
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

How the brain allows us to infer emotions

Researchers have identified the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) as the basis of emotional inference in animals and humans. In a study published in Nature, Xiaowei Gu and Joshua Johansen found that rats can learn inferred emotions by associating a neutral stimulus with an unpleasant experience.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2025

Astronomers take a second look at twin star systems

Astronomers have identified nearly 600 edge-on binary star systems using Gaia DR3 catalogue data, which could facilitate the discovery of new planets and compare planet formation across stars in the same system. The study suggests that certain orientations of twin star systems provide critical information about planet formation.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 14, 2025

A downside of taurine: it drives leukemia growth

Scientists discovered that taurine drives leukemia growth by promoting glycolysis and is produced by normal cells in the bone marrow microenvironment. Researchers identified taurine transporter expression as essential for leukemia cell growth, leading to potential new therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Women’s physical activity levels are less variable than men’s, study says

Researchers analyzed data from a wearable device to find that women's physical activity levels are less variable and more predictable than men's. The study also found no significant difference in physical activity levels between individuals with and without menstrual cycles.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMay 14, 2025
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

JAMA Cardiology letter highlights limitations and risks of semaglutide

Limited effectiveness and high prevalence of adverse events are the key limitations of semaglutide. Plant-based dietary interventions have led to long-term, significant weight loss and improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 14, 2025

Scientists discover new way the brain learns

Researchers identified a dual learning system in the brain that enables habits to form and provides a scientific basis for breaking bad habits. The study suggests that replacing an action consistently can lead to the APE system forming a new habit, offering a potential strategy for overcoming addictions.

SourceSainsbury Wellcome Centre·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

New marine-biodegradable polymer decomposes by 92% in one year, rivals nylon in strength

A Korean research team has developed a high-performance polyester-amide polymer that decomposes by over 92% in one year under real marine conditions while maintaining strength and flexibility comparable to nylon. This material is applicable to various uses, including textiles, fishing nets, and food packaging.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 14, 2025
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Dark matter formed when fast particles slowed down and got heavy, new theory says

Researchers at Dartmouth College propose a new theory on the origin of dark matter, suggesting it could have formed from high-energy massless particles that rapidly condensed into cold, heavy particles. The theory can be tested using existing observational data, including the Cosmic Microwave Background radiation.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2025

Yellow fever vaccination: how strong immune responses are triggered

A team of researchers investigated the immune response to the yellow fever vaccine, discovering that specific cell types respond to interferons and a key molecule SIGLEC-1 becomes prominent after vaccination, associated with rapid antibody formation.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2025

Multiple defects renovation and phase reconstruction of reduced-dimensional perovskites via in situ chlorination for efficient deep-blue (454 nm) light-emitting diodes

Researchers propose a novel in-situ chlorination post-treatment method to renovate defects and reconstruct phase structure, enhancing optoelectronic performance. Deep-blue LEDs achieved an external quantum efficiency of 6.17%, demonstrating faster carrier transport and increased operational stability.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMay 14, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Differences in weight loss among ethnicities points to need to look at socio-economic issues, York University study suggests

A new study by York University suggests that the broad ethnic categories used in clinical settings may mask differences in sub-ethnic groups. The findings indicate that socio-economic factors play a significant role in weight loss disparities among Black, Middle Eastern, Latin, and South Asian communities.

SourceYork University·JournalClinical Obesity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2025

Developers, educators view AI harms differently, research finds

Developers of educational tools focus on technical challenges, while educators are concerned with broader impacts, such as inhibiting critical thinking skills and exacerbating systemic inequality. Researchers recommend designer-centered approach to facilitate development of educator-centered edtech.

SourceCornell University·DateMay 14, 2025

Epigenetics predicts the aggressiveness of Burkitt Lymphoma, a common pediatric tumor in developing countries

Researchers identified two distinct epigenetic profiles in Burkitt Lymphoma, one associated with a favorable clinical course and the other with early relapse and shorter survival. This discovery has implications for treatment strategies and may lead to personalized medicine approaches.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalBlood Cancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Onion-like nanoparticles found in aircraft exhaust

Researchers found four types of aircraft engine exhaust particles, including soot, volatile particles, and onion-like structures. The onion-like particles are composed of organic compounds and have unique internal structures that may affect their volatility and interaction with the human respiratory tract.

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalACS ES&T Air·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

MRI scans could help detect life-threatening heart disease

Researchers found that MRI scans can detect heart inflammation, scarring, and impaired function in carriers of a mutated LMNA gene. This information can help clinicians predict which patients are at higher risk and inform decisions about treatments such as defibrillators or transplants.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJACC Cardiovascular Imaging·DateMay 14, 2025

Australia’s oldest prehistoric tree frog hops 22 million years back in time

A new species of ancient tree frog, Litoria tylerantiqua, has been discovered in Australia, challenging previous estimates of when Australian and South American tree frogs separated. The fossil record indicates that the separation occurred approximately 22 million years ago, rather than 33 million years ago as previously thought.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 14, 2025

Ecological Society of America announces recipients of 2025 awards

The Ecological Society of America recognizes William H. Schlesinger with the Eminent Ecologist Award for his global element cycles work, and Carmen R. Cid receives the Distinguished Service Citation for her long volunteer service to ESA. These awards inspire new insights and collaborations.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateMay 14, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New global model shows how to bring environmental pressures back to 2015 levels by 2050

A new global model shows that targeted interventions across emissions, diets, food waste, and water efficiency could halter environmental degradation by 2050. The study identifies five measures to reduce transgression: climate mitigation, food-consumption change, reduced food waste, improved water-use efficiency, and improved nitrogen-...

SourceUtrecht University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2025

Low-cost formulation reduces dose and increases efficacy of drug against worms

Researchers have developed a low-cost, nanotechnology-based praziquantel formulation that increases efficacy and reduces dosage for treating worms. The new formulation, requiring only half the usual dose, demonstrates greater efficacy in eliminating schistosomes than the active ingredient alone.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateMay 14, 2025

Mass General Brigham researchers pinpoint ‘sweet spot’ for focused ultrasound to provide essential tremor relief

Researchers at Mass General Brigham have pinpointed a 'sweet spot' for focused ultrasound treatment to provide significant relief from essential tremor. The study identified a specific subregion of the brain's thalamus that can result in optimal and long-lasting tremor improvements while reducing side effects. With this breakthrough, p...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2025

Evaluation of in-vitro activity of ceftazidime-avibactam against carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria: A cross-sectional study from Pakistan

This study found that ceftazidime-avibactam is ineffective against most carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacterial strains, with only a small proportion showing susceptibility. The results suggest that alternative strategies are needed to control antimicrobial resistance in Pakistan.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Exploratory Research in Pharmacology·DateMay 14, 2025
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Quantum simulation of chemical dynamics achieved for the first time using Sydney quantum computer

Scientists successfully simulated real chemical interactions with light, marking a major breakthrough in applying quantum computing to chemistry and medicine. This achievement holds promise for understanding complex light-driven phenomena, such as photosynthesis and cancer research.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Tech meets tornado recovery

Researchers at Texas A&M University developed a new AI model to speed up building damage assessments and predict recovery times after a tornado. The model uses remote sensing, deep learning, and restoration models to generate damage assessments in under an hour, providing actionable intelligence for first responders and policymakers.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2025
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Models predict severity of pneumonia in kids to help guide treatment

Researchers developed pragmatic models that accurately distinguish between mild, moderate and severe pneumonia in children based on evidence from 73 EDs across 14 countries. The new predictive tools are intended to complement clinician judgement in deciding whether a child’s pneumonia warrants hospitalization or intensive care.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateMay 14, 2025

Stranger things: How Netflix teaches economics

A new study by UBC Okanagan professor Dr. Julien Picault explores how Netflix content can help students grasp economic concepts like cartels, creative destruction, and inflation. An online resource called EcoNetflix offers teaching guides built around clips from popular shows, featuring clear connections to economics concepts.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalThe Journal of Economic Education·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 14, 2025

Academy award-nominated movie helps researchers identify brain region biased towards drug cues and treatment effects in individuals with heroin use disorder

A study published in Brain found that the orbitofrontal cortex responds more strongly to drug content than other stimuli, even after treatment and abstinence. The researchers used an Academy Award-nominated movie to assess brain responses in individuals with heroin use disorder and healthy controls.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalBrain·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2025
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Dental flosser for at-home stress monitoring

Researchers developed a dental floss pick with a built-in sensor that accurately measures cortisol levels in saliva, mimicking blood levels. The device takes around 10 minutes to report results and has been shown to be sensitive enough to detect small increases in cortisol indicative of stress.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 14, 2025

SNAP shields kids from future heart disease risks, long-term study finds

A long-term Northwestern Medicine study found that participating in SNAP significantly mitigates the risk of heart disease and cardiovascular health disparities in children. The study tracked over 1,000 children born between 1998 and 2000 and found that food insecurity at ages 3-5 was linked to worse heart health at age 22.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMay 14, 2025

Brain scans reveal what happens in the mind when insight strikes

Research at Duke University found that insight triggers a burst of activity in the hippocampus, leading to better memory retention. Participants who experienced 'aha!' moments recalled solutions far better than those without, with conviction levels doubling long-term memory.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 14, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Study reveals surprising side effects of high-dose radiation therapy

Researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine discovered a new phenomenon where high doses of radiation cause growth in existing metastatic tumors. The 'badscopal effect' is attributed to increased production of amphiregulin, which weakens the immune system and makes cancer cells more resistant.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

ESMT Berlin research shows private ownership boosts hospital performance

New research by ESMT Berlin reveals that hospitals acquired by private equity firms significantly reduce costs and administrative staff without harming patient care. The study finds improved operational profitability while sustaining essential medical staff levels over the long term.

SourceESMT Berlin·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2025

New gel could boost coral reef restoration

Researchers at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography developed a gel called SNAP-X that releases chemical cues encouraging coral larvae settlement. In laboratory tests, SNAP-X increased coral settlement by up to 20 times compared to untreated surfaces, offering a promising solution for coral reef restoration efforts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateMay 14, 2025
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Protons on the move

The BASE collaboration successfully relocated protons outside an antimatter laboratory using an autonomous Penning trap system. The technology enables low-energy antiprotons to be transported to high-precision laboratories, allowing for stringent matter-antimatter comparisons.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2025

New insights into the energy balance of brain neurons

A study by Leipzig University researchers has provided high-resolution insights into the energy balance of brain neurons during spreading depolarizations. The findings show that even in 'healthy' brain tissue, these waves cause a temporary drop in ATP levels.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Cannabis use among older adults

A cross-sectional study found that more than one-third of veterans aged 65-84 who used cannabis in the past 30 days had a cannabis use disorder. Routine health screening for cannabis use is necessary to identify older adults with cannabis use. Frequent and inhaled cannabis use was associated with higher odds of any cannabis use disorder.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 14, 2025

An experimental immunotherapy reverses heart energy damage caused by cholesterol

Researchers developed an experimental immunotherapy capable of reversing heart energy production damage caused by cholesterol accumulation. The therapy targets the LRP1 receptor, preventing cholesterol from accumulating in mitochondrial membranes and restoring cellular energy production.

SourceInstitut de Recerca Sant Pau (Sant Pau Research Institute)·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Researchers gain insights into the brain’s ‘dimmer switch’

Researchers have gained insights into the brain's locus coeruleus and peri-LC neurons, revealing their role in regulating arousal, attention and response to stress and fear. The study provides a detailed roadmap for studying these key players, potentially opening doors for new treatments for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Programmable electron-induced color router array

A new programmable color router array is designed to manipulate photon momentum in multi-frequency channels, enabling efficient spectrum utilization and encryption. The device utilizes dichromatic photon momentum and beam intensity to promote information processing ability, increasing capacity based on frequency-dependent angular measu...

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMay 14, 2025

Amorphous Ni-Fe Oxide: A high-performance, low-cost OER electrocatalyst for AEMWEs

Researchers developed amorphous Ni-Fe mixed oxides using sol-gel method to enhance oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity and operational durability in anion exchange membrane water electrolyzers (AEMWEs). The material demonstrated optimal OER performance, achieving a low overpotential of 291 mV and remarkable stability.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

How we think about protecting data

A new study suggests that people's views on data privacy are context-dependent and can shift based on different circumstances. The researchers created a card game called Data Slots to elicit public valuations of data privacy relating to various topics and domains.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateMay 14, 2025
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Handy octopus robot can adapt to its surroundings

Scientists developed a soft robot inspired by the octopus's nervous system that can sense its environment and control actions. The robot uses a single suction system to grab delicate items, detect contact, classify surfaces, and predict pulling forces.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Drinking water, select foods linked to PFAs in California adults

A new study found that PFAS exposure remains a concern for California adults, with drinking water, seafood, eggs, and brown rice identified as contributors. While dietary associations are lower than previous studies, the findings highlight the need to regulate PFAS in drinking water.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2025

Loss of Medicare Part D subsidy linked to higher mortality among low-income older adults

A study by University of Pennsylvania and Harvard researchers found that losing the Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy is associated with significant increases in mortality among low-income Medicare beneficiaries. The risk of death was 4-22% higher, with greater risks for those using HIV antiretroviral therapy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 14, 2025

UPF and the Royal Veterinary College make the first 3D reconstructions of cat hearts to compare them with humans’

Scientists at UPF and the Royal Veterinary College have generated 3D reconstructions of cat hearts to analyze thrombi formation. The study reveals a similar risk pattern between cats and humans, highlighting the importance of heart morphology in blood clotting.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2025

Should we protect non-native species? A new study says maybe

A new study finds that over a quarter of naturalised plant species worldwide are threatened in parts of their native range, raising questions about global conservation efforts. The researchers argue for a nuanced approach to evaluating non-native species, acknowledging both risks and potential conservation opportunities.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNew Phytologist·DateMay 14, 2025

Too much sleep can hurt cognitive performance, especially for those with depression, UT Health San Antonio study finds

Long sleep duration is associated with poorer global cognition and specific cognitive abilities like memory, visuospatial skills and executive functions. This association is strongest in people with depressive symptoms, regardless of antidepressant usage.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalAlzheimer’s & Dementia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2025

Microplastics in Texas bays are being swept out to sea

Researchers found microplastics in Texas bay sediments, but most have been swept out to sea, not settling at the bottom. The study suggests microplastics can absorb chemicals and build up in marine life, eventually affecting humans.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 14, 2025

$500,000 Gruber Neuroscience Prize awarded to Edward Chang for groundbreaking discoveries on the neural coding of speech comprehension and production

Dr. Edward F. Chang's pioneering research has revealed how the human brain encodes speech sounds and movements, leading to the development of a successful speech neuroprosthesis that restores communication in paralyzed individuals. His work combines high-precision neurosurgery with advanced neuroscience and brain mapping.

SourceYale University·DateMay 14, 2025

Rice engineers tackle sunlight intermittency in solar desalination

Researchers at Rice University have created a scalable, low-maintenance desalination system that harnesses sunlight and recycles heat for a steady supply of fresh drinking water. The new technology, STREED, can handle high-salinity brines without significant decreases in water production or quality.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Water·DateMay 14, 2025

Abeona Therapeutics® and Lurie Children's open first center for ZEVASKYNTM gene therapy to treat wounds in painful skin disorder

Lurie Children's is now a Qualified Treatment Center (QTC) for ZEVASKYN, the first and only cell-based gene therapy for patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). This therapy promises to provide long-term healing of wounds, reduction in pain and reduced risk of infection.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·DateMay 14, 2025

Professor challenges long-held assumptions of symmetry in physics

A recent study published in Physics Letters B reveals that quarks can defy expectations when hit by high-energy electrons, challenging long-held ideas about symmetry in nuclear physics. The research team's findings may impact how future experiments interpret quark behavior and the structure of matter.

SourceMississippi State University·JournalPhysics Letters B·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

PolyU research reveals sharp depletion in soil moisture, driving land water to flow into the oceans and contributing to a rise in sea levels

A PolyU research team found a rapid decline in global soil moisture over the past 40 years, resulting in significant water loss and sea level rise. The study suggests that precipitation deficits, global warming, and changing rainfall patterns are key factors behind this depletion.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2025

The key to spotting dyslexia early could be AI-powered handwriting analysis

A University at Buffalo-led study proposes using AI-powered handwriting analysis to identify spelling issues, poor letter formation, and other indicators of dyslexia and dysgraphia. The work aims to augment current screening tools and provide an early detection tool for these neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSN Computer Science·DateMay 14, 2025

Non-local metasurface generates highly efficient transmission vortex by intrinsic singularity and generalized Kerker effect

Researchers propose a non-local metasurface that combines the generalized Kerker effect with non-local collective interactions to generate highly efficient and directional vortex beams. The design leverages intrinsic dipole singularities, non-local coupling, and Bragg scattering to achieve high-performance results.

SourceChinese Society for Optical Engineering·JournalPhotoniX·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

The ripple effect of small earthquakes near major faults

A new study by UC Santa Cruz geophysicists explains how small tremors can yield insights into major earthquake behavior. Small earthquakes can disturb the natural rhythm of tremors, causing them to speed up or delay activity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 14, 2025

Superconductors: Amazingly orderly disorder

Researchers at TU Wien have discovered a material called murunskite that combines properties of cuprates and pnictides in unexpected ways. Despite the random arrangement of its atoms, murunskite exhibits surprisingly ordered magnetic properties at high temperatures.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Planting a mosaic of shrub fringes

A comprehensive study examines the effects of shrub fringe management on biodiversity, revealing that open and semi-open edges with high habitat quality support the highest species richness. Landowners are advised to provide sufficient space for these habitats to protect rare and endangered species.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2025

Successful experiments at GSI/FAIR uncover new island of asymmetric fission

An international team identified a new region of heavy, neutron-deficient isotopes where nuclear fission is predominantly governed by an asymmetric mode. The research found increasingly asymmetric fission in these nuclei, characterized by light krypton fragments, marking the discovery of a new island in the nuclear chart.

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Could a mini-stroke leave lasting fatigue?

A new study published in Neurology found that people who experience a mini-stroke may suffer from prolonged fatigue lasting up to one year. Researchers discovered that previous anxiety or depression was twice as common in those participants who reported long-term fatigue.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMay 14, 2025

New catalyst boosts efficiency of CO2 conversion

Researchers have developed an innovative catalyst made from cobalt-nickel alloy encapsulated within ceramic material Sm2O3-doped CeO2 (SDC), achieving 90% energy efficiency and sustaining performance over 2,000 hours. The breakthrough could significantly reduce operating costs by 60-80% compared to existing technologies.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2025

Alaska: Ancient cave sediments provide new climate clues

Scientists have discovered land-based evidence of ancient meltwater pulses from the Cordilleran Ice Sheet, shedding new light on climate change mechanisms. The findings suggest that additional climate forces were needed to kick-start ice-sheet retreat beyond energy changes in Earth's orbit.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 14, 2025

Earliest reptile footprints rewrite the timeline of tetrapod evolution

The discovery of a 355-million-year-old sandstone slab in Australia reveals the earliest clawed footprints ever found, challenging the long-held timeline of tetrapod evolution. The findings suggest that reptiles evolved significantly earlier than previously thought, impacting the entire evolutionary history of amniotes.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2025

Low-viscosity oil boosts PDMS SlipChip: Enabling safer cell studies and gradient generation

Scientists at Toyohashi University of Technology created a more reliable PDMS SlipChip using low-viscosity silicone oil, allowing for smoother channel operation and better cell compatibility. The improved device enables safer cell studies and concentration gradient generation, opening new avenues for biomedical research.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalMicromachines·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Remote region sensor for essential vitamin deficiency

Researchers at KAUST created an electrochemical sensor that detects vitamin D deficiency using MXene-antibody hybrid biosensor device. The sensor has a detection limit of 1 picogram per milliliter, making it suitable for point-of-care testing in remote healthcare centers.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025

Air pollution may increase epilepsy risk, new study suggests

A new study by researchers at London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute found an association between long-term exposure to air pollution and new cases of epilepsy in adults in Ontario. Higher exposure to fine particulate matter and ozone increased the likelihood of developing epilepsy.

SourceLondon Health Sciences Centre Research Institute·JournalEpilepsia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2025

Mindfulness course effective in people with difficult-to-treat depression

A new clinical trial found mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) significantly improved depression symptoms compared to continued treatment as usual. MBCT was also shown to be cost-effective, saving the NHS money by changing service use.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 14, 2025

New study shows how ancient climates may inform monsoon prediction

A recent study explores how ancient climate behavior can inform our understanding of the South Asian Summer Monsoon's (SASM) dynamics under climate warming. The study identifies similar SASM changes across past warm intervals, suggesting that insights from past warm climates can help predict future changes in monsoon circulation and ra...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2025

Highly dispersed MoOx-Ru/C bimetallic catalyst for efficient hydrogenolysis of esters

A new MoOx-Ru/C bimetallic catalyst has been developed for the efficient hydrogenolysis of esters to alkanes, exhibiting high conversion rates and selectivity. The catalyst's unique synergistic effect between Ru and MoOx species promotes the conversion of esters into alkanes without carbon loss.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateMay 14, 2025

MSU study: Ransomware drives US health data breaches

A new study reveals that ransomware attacks have become the primary driver of health care data breaches in the United States. The study found that ransomware accounted for 69% of all patient records compromised in 2024, despite accounting for only 11% of breaches by number.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 14, 2025

NASA’s Magellan mission reveals possible tectonic activity on Venus

Researchers studied corona features on Venus' surface, finding signs of tectonic activity and buoyant mantle material beneath them. This discovery suggests ongoing processes driving coronae formation, potentially similar to Earth's past.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2025

Fossil tracks show reptiles appeared on Earth up to 40 million years earlier

Newly discovered fossil tracks in Australia indicate that reptiles originated on land around 350 million years ago, pushing back their evolution by 35-40 million years. This discovery provides significant insights into the early evolution of tetrapods and challenges previous records of their emergence.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2025

Different ways of ‘getting a grip’

New research finds that Australopithecus sediba and Homo naledi used their hands for both tool use and climbing, with distinct patterns of finger bone structure indicating different grip types. The study reveals varying levels of dexterity and climbing abilities among ancient human relatives in South Africa.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 2025

Making automation more human through innovative fabrication tools

Jennifer Jacobs' innovative fabrication tools aim to redefine user interaction with machines like 3D printers and CNC mills, fostering improvisation, expertise, and adaptation. Her research focuses on designing systems that blend manual and automated operations, enabling creators to intervene during fabrication and adjust variables mid...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateMay 14, 2025

What behavioral strategies motivate environmental action?

Researchers tested 17 behavioral strategies to overcome barriers to climate action, finding that emphasizing relevance and future thinking are most effective. Interventions like letter-writing and brainstorming short-term benefits increased intentions to act on both individual and collective levels.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2025