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Science News for May 15, 2025


KAIST discovers protein switch that turns anti-viral immune response on and off​

Researchers at KAIST have identified a critical protein called SLIRP that acts as an 'immune switch' regulating immune responses to viruses and autoimmune diseases. Suppressing SLIRP can alleviate abnormal immune responses in patients with Sjögren's syndrome, coronavirus, and encephalomyocarditis virus infection.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

Asians made humanity’s longest prehistoric migration and shaped the genetic landscape in the Americas, finds NTU Singapore-led study

A groundbreaking NTU Singapore-led study has identified the earliest known Asian migrants who traveled over 20,000km from North Asia to South America. The GenomeAsia100K study reveals that these ancient humans arrived in the Americas approximately 14,000 years ago, diverging into four major groups and adapting to diverse environments.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2025

Processing and reporting greenfeed emissions data just got easier with a new open-source, flexible data analysis tool

A new open-source tool, greenfeedr, is introduced to simplify the process of analyzing GreenFeed data from livestock. The R package offers functions for downloading, processing, and generating reports, allowing researchers and producers to automate routine tasks and gain insights into methane and carbon dioxide emissions.

SourceElsevier·JournalJDS Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2025

New special issue in "Proceedings of the Royal Society B" reframes the origins of domestication

A new special issue in Proceedings of the Royal Society B explores lesser-studied plants and animals, revealing diverse and context-dependent ways domestication occurred. Studies analyze cereal grain evolution across Eurasia, challenging conventional narratives and introducing new definitions for domestication.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateMay 15, 2025

Archaeologists combine cutting edge research techniques to shed light on the treatment of individuals with disabilities in the late Middle Ages

Researchers analyzed a skeleton with a severe knee injury to uncover the complexities of social attitudes towards individuals with disabilities in medieval Europe. The study found that despite negative cultural views, some individuals with disabilities received long-term care and prominent burials.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Archaeology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 15, 2025

Using testosterone gel to treat women recovering from hip fractures provides no added benefits, clinical trial finds

A clinical trial found that applying testosterone gel with exercise did not improve physical function in older women recovering from hip fractures. However, the study discovered some positive effects on short-distance mobility, which warrants further investigation. The STEP-HI trial involved 129 women and considered two approaches: tes...

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 15, 2025

One in ten asthma cases can be avoided with a better urban environment

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that combining air pollution, dense urban development, and limited green spaces increases the risk of asthma. In contrast, a more favorable environment can prevent up to 11.6% of asthma cases, suggesting that urban planning can play a crucial role in reducing the disease.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2025

Infant with rare, incurable disease is first to successfully receive personalized gene therapy treatment

A team of researchers has successfully treated an infant with a life-threatening, incurable genetic disease using personalized gene editing therapy. The infant, who was diagnosed shortly after birth, showed positive responses to the treatment and improved symptoms over time.

SourceNIH/Office of the Director·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 15, 2025

Overlooked cell type orchestrates brain rewiring

Researchers found that a brain chemical associated with alertness and learning alters brain connectivity by signaling through astrocytes, rather than directly on neurons. This discovery calls for greater focus on astrocytes as therapeutic targets in the treatment of attention, memory, and emotional disorders.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

Through the winter with a balanced diet

A study by University of Würzburg researchers found that a balanced diet with diverse pollen is crucial for honeybee survival during winter. The team discovered that areas with high agricultural use provide bees with higher pollen diversity in autumn, while near-natural areas have greater pollen diversity in summer.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2025

Do plants have a “dual insurance” strategy for phosphorus acquisition?

Plants utilize two primary pathways, the direct pathway (DP) and the mycorrhizal pathway (MP), to acquire phosphorus from soil. The direct pathway involves plants absorbing available phosphorus directly, while the mycorrhizal pathway relies on a symbiotic relationship with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

Scientists use fossils to assess the health of Florida’s largest remaining seagrass bed. Surprisingly, it’s doing well!

A new study published in Marine Ecology Progress Series reveals that seagrass ecosystems along Florida's Nature Coast have remained relatively healthy over the last several thousand years. The research, conducted by conservation paleobiologists, used fossilized mollusk shells to infer ecosystem health and found that these communities a...

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateMay 15, 2025

Older adults are getting infected with HIV, but prevention focuses on young people

A study published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity reveals that older adults in sub-Saharan Africa are at risk of HIV infection, particularly those who have experienced social stigma and lack access to education. Interventions such as repeated testing, PrEP, and awareness campaigns can help reduce infections among the elderly.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalThe Lancet Healthy Longevity·DateMay 15, 2025

‘Rogue’ immune cells explain why a gluten-free diet fails in some coeliac patients

Researchers discovered that certain immune cells in the gut of refractory coeliac disease patients carry genetic mutations, driving ongoing intestinal inflammation and symptoms. The study's findings suggest a new way to diagnose and potentially treat the most severe form of coeliac disease.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

The effect of physical fitness on mortality is overestimated

A new study from Uppsala University found that people with high fitness levels in late adolescence have a lower risk of dying prematurely, but the association between physical fitness and reduced mortality risk may be overstated. The researchers examined data from over 1 million Swedish men and found no significant difference in the ri...

SourceUppsala University·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateMay 15, 2025

Study reveals why women tend to have faster heartbeats, men more irregular rhythms

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that women's hearts beat faster due to higher levels of genes like TBX3 and HCN1. In contrast, men's hearts are more prone to irregular rhythms like atrial fibrillation, linked to inflammation and collagen production.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCirculation Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 15, 2025

Study reveals a deep brain region that links the senses

A new Yale-led study indicates that multiple senses stimulate a critical region deep in the brain controlling consciousness. The research found that sensory input uses shared subcortical systems and that all input stimulates activity in two deep brain regions, even when subjects are sharply focused on specific senses.

SourceYale University·JournalNeuroImage·DateMay 15, 2025

Language a barrier in biodiversity work

A University of Queensland study reveals that non-English language papers on bird, mammal, and amphibian protection have significantly fewer citations than their English-language counterparts. Providing an English abstract can boost citations by 1.5 times.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalConservation Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2025

New model tracks agricultural impact on lake ecosystems

A recent study unveiled an innovative data-driven model that disentangles human-induced and natural water consumption in croplands, shedding light on the sustainability of arid lake ecosystems. The model provides actionable insights for sustainable resource management, quantifying the impact of agricultural expansion on water resources.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateMay 15, 2025

New study reveals how to reclaim space for civil society in times of democratic decline

A new study finds that emphasizing widely supported public service efforts and redefining what it means to be part of a group can increase the perceived legitimacy of controversial civil organizations. The research tested different messaging strategies on over 1,600 Jewish Israeli participants, using real-world examples from a delegiti...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCommunications Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

Seeing well-designed gardens could relax us almost immediately because we look at them differently

A team of researchers investigated the impact of Kyoto's Murin-an garden on viewers' relaxation. They found a correlation between rapid gaze shifts and reduced stress levels. The design features of the well-crafted Japanese garden led to frequent, rapid horizontal shifts in gaze, which induced a calming effect.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

USC study reveals link between type 2 diabetes and brain health in older adults from various populations

A new USC-led study found a significant link between type 2 diabetes and cortical thickness in older adults from various populations. The researchers discovered that individuals with T2DM exhibited thinner cortex, particularly in temporal and parietal regions critical for memory and cognitive function.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Diagnosis Assessment & Disease Monitoring·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 15, 2025

Nationally recognized emergency radiologist Tarek Hanna, MD, named new chair of Diagnostic Radiology & Nuclear Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine

Dr. Tarek Hanna joins UMSOM from Emory University School of Medicine with expertise in emergency and trauma imaging, clinical operations optimization, and faculty development. He will advance clinical excellence and expand radiology services across central Maryland.

Mass General Brigham study finds that patients with glioblastoma who received gabapentin lived longer

A study by Mass General Brigham found that patients with glioblastoma who received gabapentin lived longer than those who didn't. The medication was shown to confer a four-month survival benefit, with patients on gabapentin surviving an average of 16 months compared to 12 months for those without the drug.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2025

Millions of previously undocumented genetic variants discovered in Brazil’s highly admixed population

A large-scale genomic analysis reveals Brazil as one of the most genetically diverse countries on Earth, shaped by centuries of colonization and Indigenous heritage. Researchers uncovered over 8.7 million previously undocumented genetic variants, including those potentially affecting population health.

Breakthrough in anal cancer treatment

A new clinical trial has shown that a lower dose of radiotherapy can lead to higher levels of complete disappearance of cancer and fewer short-term side effects. The treatment approach, led by Professor David Sebag-Montefiore, aims to reduce the burden on patients and healthcare systems.

World's first patient treated with personalized CRISPR gene editing therapy at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

A child diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder has been successfully treated with a customized CRISPR gene editing therapy, showcasing the power of tailored gene editing to treat patients. The infant is now growing well and thriving after receiving three doses of the therapy with no serious side effects.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeCase study·DateMay 15, 2025

Oxidative stress and antigen processing and presentation: A novel perspective for precision immunotherapy

A new review article reveals the dynamic mechanisms of ROS regulating antigen processing and presentation, proposing combined immunotherapy strategies based on redox homeostasis regulation. Targeting redox homeostasis is a promising direction for enhancing tumor immunotherapy efficacy.

Climate-smart ocean solutions require distinguishing marine spatial planning and marine conservation planning

Researchers propose pathways for synergies between marine spatial planning and marine protected area planning under a rapidly changing climate. Key aspects of MSP and MPA planning set them apart, including zonation, scale, stakeholder involvement, systems view, and climate considerations.

SourceFaculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon·Journalnpj Ocean Sustainability·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 15, 2025

USC researchers develop low-cost blood test for early Alzheimer’s detection

Researchers from USC Keck School of Medicine have developed a low-cost blood test that detects five biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease, including amyloid and tau proteins. The test uses xMAP technology and has the potential to catch the disease in its earliest stages, when treatment might be able to prevent or delay cognitive decline.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

Recently, a joint Chinese–American research team led by Dr. HU Han from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Dr. Jingmai O’Connor from the Field Museum of Natural History (Chicago

A joint Chinese-American research team has discovered the smallest known Archaeopteryx specimen, acquired by the Field Museum in 2022. The study provides crucial insights into the evolution of the skull and adaptations for flight during the transition from non-avian dinosaurs to birds.

Stretched in a cross pattern: Our neighboring galaxy is pulled in two axes

Researchers at Nagoya University discovered that Cepheid variable stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud are moving in opposing directions along two distinct axes, indicating the galaxy is being stretched by multiple external gravitational forces. The findings challenge previous theories of the galaxy's structure and dynamics.

SourceNagoya University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

Large study traces prehistoric human expansion into South America, where genomic studies have been lacking

A large genomic study reveals distinct ancestry patterns and early diversification of Indigenous South American populations. The study suggests northern and southern Native American groups diverged between 17,500 and 14,600 years ago, with human presence in southernmost South America confirmed by 14,500 years ago.

Successful snus cessation led to increased body weight and blood pressure

Researchers found that snus cessation led to a clinically significant rise in blood pressure, averaging 3.7 mm Hg, and weight gain of 1.8 kilos in a group of 33 participants. The study suggests that healthcare professionals should monitor blood pressure after snus cessation, especially for individuals with cardiovascular problems.

SourceLinköping University·JournalHarm Reduction Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 15, 2025

“Chicago archaeopteryx” unveiled: New clues on dinosaur–bird transition revealed by Chinese–American research team

The study provides crucial insights into the evolution of the skull and adaptations for flight in the critical transition from non-avian dinosaurs to birds. The Chicago Archaeopteryx specimen reveals an almost completely preserved skull with a palatal region intermediate between troodontids and more derived Cretaceous birds.

Implanting Ag nanoparticles in SiOC ceramic nanospheres for exceptional electromagnetic wave absorption and antibacterial performance

Scientists have created a new class of materials that absorb electromagnetic waves and exhibit strong antibacterial properties. The researchers used liquid phase method to implant Ag nanoparticles in SiOC ceramic nanospheres, achieving an absorption performance of -58.03 dB and effective antibacterial ability against E. coli and S.aureus.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMay 15, 2025

Under embargo: Mount Sinai experts to present new research on preeclampsia, doula care and more at 2025 2025 ACOG Annual Clinical and Scientific Meeting

Researchers will discuss increasing the use of low-dose aspirin for preeclampsia prevention through universal implementation. Additionally, experts will present on the impact of doula care on social determinants of health, exploring its potential to address non-medical healthcare disparities within the system.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 15, 2025

Realization of a cold atom gyroscope in space

Researchers have developed a payload named China Space Station Atom Interferometer (CSSAI) to realize the space cold atom gyroscope measurements, achieving uncertainty of rotational measurement better than 3.0×10⁻⁵ rad/s and resolution of acceleration measurement better than 1.1×10⁻⁶ m/s².

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

Regenerable crystalline porous framework beads achieve ultra-deep nuclear wastewater purification

Researchers developed scalable composite beads using crystalline porous frameworks and polymers, achieving exceptional adsorption capabilities for nuclear wastewater purification. The beads demonstrated efficient removal of radioactive contaminants, outperforming commercial resins in deep purification.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

How do plants “otify” their neighbors in danger?

When plants are infected by pathogens, attacked by herbivores, or suffer from mechanical damage, mycorrhizal fungi can transmit warning signals to neighboring individuals via extensive symbiotic relationships. This process allows plants to activate defense mechanisms and reduces the risk of being attacked.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

“Virus exposure linked to Neurodegeneration” Professor Ok Sarah Shin's Team at Korea University College of Medicine Finds Clues to treat neurodegenerative diseases with Therapeutic Candidate “ALT001”

A study by Korea University researchers has identified the association between viral infections and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. They developed a therapeutic candidate ALT001 that improves mitophagy, reduces neuroinflammation, and suppresses viral replication.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalTheranostics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

Study suggests loss of lung capacity begins between the ages of 20 and 25

A study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that lung capacity develops in two phases: rapid growth during childhood and slower growth until peak lung function. Lung function starts to decline after the peak age, contrary to previous models. Persistent asthma and smoking affect lung function differently than thought.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2025

UT MD Anderson and Texas Children’s Hospital announce $150 million gift from Kinder Foundation to launch Kinder Children’s Cancer Center

The $150 million gift from Kinder Foundation will create a joint venture between UT MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children's Hospital, aiming to end childhood cancer. The center will be the nation's largest and most comprehensive pediatric cancer center focused exclusively on children.

Genetic ancestry and parental smoking linked to new genetic changes in children

Research reveals that different ancestry groups have varying rates of new genetic mutations passed to children, with African groups showing a higher rate. Additionally, parental age, especially paternal age, significantly impacts the number of new genetic mutations, while parental smoking is linked to a small increase in mutation count.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2025

Seeing blood clots before they strike

Researchers developed a new imaging technique that uses artificial intelligence and high-speed microscopy to track platelet behavior in real-time. The study shows promise for personalizing heart disease treatment by monitoring clotting risk in patients with coronary artery disease.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2025

The “transformation” of PbSc0.5Ta0.5O3 ceramics: Tuning ordering degree for enhanced electrocaloric effect

Scientists at Tsinghua University Press successfully developed PST ceramics with a high electrocaloric effect, enabling efficient near/below RT refrigeration. The researchers achieved this by tuning the ordering degree of the ceramic material, which leads to improved ferroelectric properties and enhanced electrocaloric performance.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMay 15, 2025