Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 22, 2025


Motorcycle helmet laws save lives: Study shows universal laws increase helmet use and reduce injury severity

A study found that universal helmet laws in North Carolina resulted in higher helmet use rates (94%) compared to South Carolina (47%), leading to less severe injuries. The study also highlighted the human toll of not wearing helmets, including longer ICU stays and more ventilator support.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·TypeObservational study·DateMay 22, 2025

Never too old: medication improves survival rates after a first heart attack even in patients over 90 years old

A study found that prescribing guideline-directed medical treatment to patients 90 years and older following their first heart attack can improve survival rates. The greatest benefit was observed in those who received all four recommended therapies, including beta-blockers and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 22, 2025

Factors involved in human healthy aging: insights from longevity individuals

Human healthy aging and longevity are influenced by a dynamic interplay of genetic, epigenetic, metabolic, immune, and environmental factors. Long-lived individuals exhibit distinct characteristics, such as reduced morbidity and preserved physiological functions, which can be attributed to their lifestyle and environmental choices.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Climate change: Penguin guano may help reduce effects of climate change in Antarctica

Measuring ammonia concentration near an Adelie penguin colony found increased levels when wind blew from the colony, suggesting a connection between penguin guano and climate change mitigation. The study suggests that penguin guano may help reduce the effects of climate change on Antarctica by contributing to increased cloud formation.

SourceSpringer Nature·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateMay 22, 2025

Two-step method to prevent biofilm regrowth is a SLAM dunk

A new study presents a two-step method to effectively dismantle bacterial biofilms and prevent regrowth. By using self-locomotive antibacterial microbubblers (SLAM) followed by a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and peroxyacetic acid, researchers were able to prevent the regrowth of biofilms on surfaces, including medical instruments.

Update of cellular senescence in kidney fibrosis: from mechanism to potential interventions

Cellular senescence is a key driver of kidney fibrosis, promoting inflammatory and fibrogenic pathways through paracrine signaling and immune activation. Therapeutic strategies targeting senescence offer novel opportunities, but further research is needed to address heterogeneity and translate preclinical findings to clinical practice.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Open and real-world human-AI coordination by heterogeneous training with communication

Researchers propose a new framework, Heterogeneous training with Communication (HeteC), to improve human-AI coordination in open and real-world environments. The framework enhances partner population diversity through mixed partner training and frozen historical partners, as well as incorporates a communication module for mitigating pa...

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

New standards in nuclear physics

The team measured the radius of the nucleus of muonic helium-3 with a precision of around 15 times more than previous experiments, providing important reference values for modern ab initio theories. The result is an important stress test for theories and future experiments in atomic physics.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

New biosensor solves old quantum riddle

Researchers create new quantum biosensor using diamond nanoparticles and specially engineered shell, outperforming previous attempts. The breakthrough sheds light on a longstanding mystery in quantum materials and shows up to fourfold improvements in spin coherence.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2025

Tapping into the World’s largest gold reserves

Scientists from the University of Göttingen have made a groundbreaking discovery, finding ruthenium in volcanic rocks on the islands of Hawaii. The finding suggests that material from the Earth's core is leaking into the mantle above, challenging previous assumptions about the planet's internal dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

City of Hope researchers to present cancer advances that could boost survival at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting

Researchers from City of Hope will present novel cancer treatment approaches and combinations, including innovative combination therapies for breast, genitourinary, and gastrointestinal cancers. Additionally, they'll discuss the safety of readministering trastuzumab-deruxtecan to metastatic breast cancer patients with low-grade lung co...

BU/VA study identifies neural mechanisms that underlie suicidal thoughts, behaviors

Researchers have identified brain regions sensitive to self-death associations in veterans at low risk for suicide. The findings provide insight into the neural mechanisms that contribute to suicidality and may aid in the development of novel treatments targeting the brain mechanisms underlying suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateMay 22, 2025

Why we trust people who grew up with less

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that people tend to trust individuals from lower-income backgrounds more than those from privileged upbringings. The research suggests that people draw a clear line between someone's childhood and their current socioeconomic status.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

New study from Aarhus questions European precautionary measures on paternal use of valproate

A new study from Aarhus University found no statistically significant increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children whose fathers were treated with valproate during spermatogenesis. The researchers urge for full transparency and replication of the IQVIA study to ensure the evidence-based basis of precautionary measures.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 22, 2025

Green ammonia powered by sunlight

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have successfully produced green ammonia using sunlight and atmospheric nitrogen, mirroring natural processes found in plants. The process uses two catalysts, one based on molybdenum and another on iridium, to activate water molecules and produce ammonia.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Exercise and eat your veggies: Privileged prescriptions like these don’t always reduce risk of heart disease

A leading cardiovascular disease researcher from Simon Fraser University is ringing the alarm on universal recommendations intended to improve heart health around the globe. The review paper examined the causes behind the causes of CVD, using data from the ongoing collaborative Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 22, 2025

‘Selfish’ genes called introners proven to be a major source of genetic complexity

Researchers found evidence that introners, a type of selfish gene, are responsible for spreading genetic complexity across species. The study revealed eight instances of horizontal gene transfer between unrelated species, suggesting that introners may hitchhike on giant viruses to transfer between species.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2025

Ox-eye daisy, bellis and yarrow: Flower strips with at least two sown species provide 70 percent more natural enemies of pests

A meta-analysis from the University of Copenhagen shows that flower strips with at least two sown species increase the number of natural enemies by an average of 70 percent. This is due to the diverse range of flowers attracting a broader range of beneficial insects, such as ladybirds and hoverflies.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalAgriculture Ecosystems & Environment·DateMay 22, 2025

Brain drain? More like brain gain: How high-skilled emigration boosts global prosperity

A new study finds that high-skilled emigration from developing countries can spur education, innovation, and economic growth in their home countries. This phenomenon is known as brain gain. The researchers also found that high-skilled migrants often maintain professional ties across borders, facilitating trade, investment, and innovation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 22, 2025

Uncovering the shield: gene duplication behind antifungal resistance in Madurella fahalii

Researchers discovered that a specific gene duplication in the fungus Madurella fahalii enables it to neutralize medication, leading to effective treatment challenges. This study highlights the potential of molecular techniques to uncover drug resistance mechanisms and pave the way for targeted therapies.

SourceChiba University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Turf algae chemically inhibit kelp forest recovery in warming coastal waters

New research reveals that turf algae in warming Gulf of Maine waters are chemically inhibiting the recovery of kelp forests, threatening these crucial marine ecosystems. Laboratory experiments show that turf-derived compounds inhibit early growth stages of kelp, altering the chemical ecology and preventing re-establishment.

Study finds unfair expectations place extra pressure on new teachers

A new study by QUT researchers reveals that 'classroom readiness' is a policy construct rather than a genuine assessment of teaching capability. Teaching performance assessments oversimplify the demands of diverse classroom settings and assume graduates can seamlessly transition into teaching with minimal guidance.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAsia-Pacific Journal of Teacher Education·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 22, 2025

Fully protected marine areas in Brazil are contaminated by microplastics

A recent study found that fully protected marine areas in Brazil are contaminated by microplastics, with an average concentration of 0.42 particles per gram of wet tissue. The contamination was detected in all ten integral protection areas studied, with the highest levels found in the Alcatrazes Archipelago Wildlife Refuge.

Even weak tropical cyclones raise infant mortality in poorer countries, USC-led research finds

A new study reveals that even weak tropical cyclones significantly increase infant deaths in low- and middle-income countries. The researchers analyzed nearly 1.7 million child records from seven economically disadvantaged countries, finding an average increase of 11% in infant mortality rates.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 22, 2025

Ateneo study highlights workforce hurdles to Universal Health Care in the Philippines

A recent Ateneo de Manila University study highlights major hurdles to implementing Universal Health Coverage in the Philippines due to inadequate education and poor compensation for healthcare workers. The country faces a shortage of at least 127,000 nurses, with many graduates lacking training in public health and community-based care.

SourceAteneo de Manila University·JournalHuman Resources for Health·TypeSurvey·DateMay 22, 2025

Biological markers for teen depression

A novel lab method developed by McGill University researchers has identified nine molecules in the blood that were elevated in teens diagnosed with depression. These molecules also predicted how symptoms might progress over time, providing a potential tool for early detection and treatment.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBiological Psychiatry Global Open Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 22, 2025

UT-Battelle, industry partners energize Oak Ridge High School STEM program with state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment

UT-Battelle has donated $225,000 to purchase advanced manufacturing equipment for Oak Ridge High School's Wildcat Manufacturing iSchool program. The equipment includes AI- and robotics-assisted manufacturing systems, enabling students to earn college credit while gaining experience with the latest innovations in intelligent manufacturing.

FOXP4 gene identified in the first large-scale genetic study on Long COVID with participation of the GCAT

A large-scale genetic study identified the FOXP4 gene as a significant factor in Long COVID, linked to lung health and immune response. The study found a strong relationship between severe COVID-19 cases and Long COVID, highlighting potential biological factors contributing to the condition.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 22, 2025

Microwave technologies give hummus longer shelf life, eliminate preservatives

Washington State University researchers used microwave technology to create shelf-stable hummus without chemical preservatives. Lentil-based hummus retained 75% of vitamin C after treatment, offering a healthier alternative. The innovative process allows for predictable and rapid heating of pre-packaged food.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Food Process Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Excellence Strategy: University of Halle receives funding for a Cluster of Excellence for the first time

The University of Halle has been awarded funding for its Cluster of Excellence, the Center for Chiral Electronics, which will focus on developing new concepts for energy-efficient electronics. The cluster aims to create highly qualified physicists who will make important technological contributions to semiconductor technology.

Rare binary star system formed when a neutron star orbited inside another star

Astronomers have identified a rare type of binary star system featuring a rapidly spinning millisecond pulsar and a helium star companion. The system is thought to have formed through common envelope evolution, with the neutron star spiraling closer to its companion before ejecting energy and leaving behind a tightly bound binary.

RSV infections in children requiring primary care lead to significant economic impact

Infections from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children requiring primary care led to significant societal economic costs. The study found that the main sources of costs were repeated visits to primary care physicians and parents missing work to care for their sick children, with higher costs for infants under 1 year old.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeObservational study·DateMay 22, 2025

Jubilation at the University of Bonn

The University of Bonn has secured funding for all six of its existing Clusters of Excellence and two new initiatives, with a total of eight clusters recognized for their outstanding research. This milestone cements the university's status as a leading research institution in Germany and Europe.

3D-printed polyurea-toughened Al2O3 cellular ceramic structures: Bioinspired dual-phase interpenetrating design for superior mechanical properties

Researchers develop bioinspired dual-phase interpenetrating composite for CCSs, enhancing damage tolerance and energy absorption under both quasi-static and dynamic loading. Polyurea-toughened Al2O3 cellular ceramic structures demonstrate superior mechanical properties with improved load-bearing capacity and energy-absorbing ability.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMay 22, 2025

"Listening directly to the nerves" — personalized stimulation control mechanism for urinary disorder treatment (tibial nerve stimulation)

A joint research team from POSTECH and Hanyang University developed a personalized stimulation control mechanism using evoked compound action potential feedback mechanisms to treat urinary disorders. This technology enables precise adjustment of tibial nerve stimulation in real-time, based on individual nerve responses, improving patie...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2025

ATN biomarker dataset now available on the EPND Hub – advancing research into Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Dementia with Lewy Bodies

The ATN dataset is a multi-cohort study that includes harmonised clinical and biomarker data from over 350 participants across ten European research cohorts. This dataset provides valuable insights into shared disease mechanisms among Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Dementia with Lewy Bodies.

New factor linked to heart failure

A study found that GADD45A protein plays a crucial role in preventing inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis in the heart. Increasing GADD45A activity may slow the progression of pathological hypertrophy and heart failure, offering a promising therapeutic strategy.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Understanding the divide: a deep dive into healthcare in Mongolia

The Mongolian healthcare system is shaped by its geographical and cultural context, with strengths in traditional medicine and universal coverage. However, remote areas struggle with inadequate healthcare providers, limited workforce capacity, and inadequate disease prevention strategies., Despite these challenges, the researchers outl...

SourceSophia University·JournalJournal of Global Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 22, 2025

TEMPO molecule enhances stability and performance of perovskite solar cells: a step toward lightweight, durable solar panels

Researchers develop a bulk passivation technique adding TEMPO to perovskite films, boosting efficiency beyond 20% and maintaining performance for several months. The approach is fast, solvent-free, and compatible with roll-to-roll processing, making it promising for large-scale production.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Breakthrough in low-cost organic solar cells: new low-cost polymer hits record 19.96% efficiency with industrial promise

Researchers have developed a breakthrough low-cost polymer for organic solar cells, achieving unprecedented 19.96% efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This innovation could accelerate commercialization of high-efficiency OSCs by reducing production costs while maintaining stability and air-process compatibility.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Studies look for potential therapy targets for dogs with Chiari-like malformation

Studies from North Carolina State University explored biomarkers and genetic markers for Chiari-like malformation in Cavalier King Charles spaniels, identifying Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide as a potential therapeutic target. Elevated CGRP levels were found in dogs with CM and painful symptoms, but not correlated with syringomyelia.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Veterinary Internal Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Extreme weather events linked to HIV vulnerabilities among sex workers and sexually diverse men in Kenya

A new study finds connections between extreme weather events and HIV vulnerabilities, including increased transactional sex, reduced condom agency, and LGBTQ stigma. Researchers studied 21 sex workers and 15 gbMSM in Nairobi, Kenya, revealing interrelated links between climate change-related resource insecurities and HIV risk.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateMay 22, 2025

AI is good at weather forecasting. Can it predict freak weather events?

A new study by UChicago scientists found that AI-powered weather prediction models are remarkable but not magical, struggling to predict unprecedented weather events. The model can achieve impressive accuracy for short-term forecasts but fails to extrapolate beyond existing training data, leading to false negatives and potential mispre...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 22, 2025

Replacing animal products with plant-based foods leads to weight loss in people with type 1 diabetes, finds new research

A new study by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine found that participants following a vegan diet lost an average of 11 pounds, compared to no significant weight loss for those on a portion-controlled diet. The study suggests that replacing animal products with plant-based foods, even those considered unhealthy, can be an...

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 22, 2025

How property owners can work to prevent flooding

Researchers from Linköping University provide a severe impacts approach to guide property owners in preventing flooding by identifying design weaknesses, prioritizing worst-case scenarios, and promoting proactive measures such as installing backflow valves and raising entrance thresholds.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBuilding Research & Information·DateMay 22, 2025

Unravelling the origin of mysterious radiation

A team from Norwegian University of Science and Technology proposes that supermassive black hole winds accelerate particles to create the mysterious high-energy radiation. The winds, which can reach speeds of up to half the speed of light, may be responsible for the creation of ultra-high-energy cosmic rays.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 22, 2025

MRI gets a nano-sized upgrade

Weizmann Institute researchers developed a nano-MRI device with a resolution of one nanometer, allowing for the imaging of individual molecules. This technology paves the way for high-resolution molecular imaging in materials and pharmaceutical industries.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCommunications Physics·DateMay 22, 2025

Can we mine enough copper to develop the world?

A University of Michigan study finds that the world may not have enough copper to sustain economic growth and population increases, requiring a significant increase in copper prices to motivate new mine development. The researchers estimate that copper needs will exceed current mining capacity by 2050, with some scenarios requiring as ...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalSEG Discovery·DateMay 22, 2025