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Science News for May 9, 2025


Decoding apple flavor and nutrition: New study maps the metabolites of 22 apple varieties in Shanxi Province, China

Researchers profiled 22 apple cultivars using NMR-based metabolomics to identify differences in sugar content, amino acids, and polyphenols. The study highlights the dominant role of genetic background in shaping biochemical traits, providing a foundation for breeding programs aimed at enhancing flavor, nutrition, and adaptability.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalFood Innovation and Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

Tapping a new toolbox, engineers buck tradition in new high-performing heat exchanger

Engineers at UW–Madison created a twisty high-temperature heat exchanger that maximizes heat transfer using topology optimization and additive manufacturing. The optimized design achieved a 27% higher power density than the traditional heat exchanger, enabling a more compact and lighter design suitable for aerospace applications.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

The greater a woman’s BMI in early pregnancy, the more likely her child is to develop overweight or obesity, Australian study finds

A new Australian study highlights the need to support women and their families with overweight or obesity before pregnancy. The research found that a woman's BMI in early pregnancy is linked to her child's weight from birth to age 10, with every 5kg/m² increase in maternal BMI associated with an increase in child BMI.

The European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and the European Society of Endocrinology join together this weekend for their inaugural joint congress – “Connecting Endocrinology across the Life Course”

The inaugural Joint Congress brings together paediatric and adult endocrine specialists to learn from each other, collaborate, and celebrate endocrinology. Over 7,500 delegates from 100 countries attend the event to experience the latest research and developments.

UO researcher develops new tool that could aid drug development

A University of Oregon graduate student has developed a new mathematical equation that significantly improves the accuracy of simplified computer models used to study large molecules. This breakthrough could aid in understanding diseases linked to errors in DNA replication, potentially leading to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 9, 2025

Weight-loss drugs cut alcohol intake by almost two-thirds, research in Ireland suggests

A new study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism found that weight loss medications liraglutide or semaglutide can cut alcohol intake by nearly two-thirds in just four months. Patients reported a significant reduction in their drinking habits, with some describing the effects as 'effortless'. The study's findings offer promisi...

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·JournalDiabetes Obesity and Metabolism·DateMay 9, 2025

KAIST innovates mid-infrared photodetectors for exoplanet detection, expanding applications to environmental and medical fields​

KAIST researchers developed a highly sensitive mid-infrared photodetector that operates at room temperature, enabling low-cost mass production and real-time sensing of various molecular species. The technology has potential applications in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and industrial process management.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 9, 2025

Can frisky flies save human lives?

Researchers found that Wolbachia bacteria makes infected female fruit flies more likely to mate and lay eggs, potentially helping to curb mosquito-borne diseases. The study also identified key proteins that influence mating behavior in infected females.

SourceArizona State University·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 9, 2025

Noninvasive intracranial source signal localization and decoding with high spatiotemporal resolution

Scientists from Tianjin University developed a novel method for noninvasive intracranial source signal localization and decoding, achieving high spatial and temporal resolution. The approach uses transcranial focused ultrasound modulated EEG technology and a real skull structure to accurately identify brain signals.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateMay 9, 2025

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal reports cases of successful recovery from subacute subdural hematoma using non-surgical therapy

Researchers investigated the efficacy of a combination of atorvastatin and dexamethasone in treating patients with subacute subdural hematoma (sASDH). The study found significant symptom improvement and no recurrence or progression of symptoms in all five patients treated with this regimen. Non-surgical interventions for sASDH are ofte...

SourceChinese Neurosurgical Journal·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeCase study·DateMay 9, 2025

New gene linked to severe cases of Fanconi anemia

Researchers have identified a new gene, FANCX, associated with an aggressive form of Fanconi anemia. Mutations in this gene lead to severe forms of the disease, including miscarriages and early death. The discovery could help identify carriers who can prevent Fanconi anemia in future pregnancies through IVF screening.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 9, 2025

A smarter way to make sulfones: Using molecular oxygen and a functional catalyst

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo developed a novel catalyst that efficiently produces sulfones at low temperatures, achieving high selectivity and reducing precious metal consumption. The new SrMn₁₋xRu_xO₃ catalyst offers significant advantages over conventional systems, making it suitable for various industries.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

Estimates of illicit opioid use in the U.S.

A national survey found that 11.0% of adults reported using illicit opioids within the past year, with even higher rates of fentanyl use, indicating a pressing need for improved data collection efforts to inform policy and intervention strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMay 9, 2025

Self-assembly of a large metal-peptide capsid nanostructure through geometric control

Researchers successfully constructed a large molecular spherical shell structure with the geometric topology of a regular dodecahedron through entanglement of peptides with metal ions. The resulting M60L60 metal-peptide shell exhibits remarkable stability against heat, dilution, and oxidative conditions, making it a promising platform ...

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalChem·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 9, 2025

First fossil evidence of endangered tropical tree discovered

Scientists have uncovered fossilized leaves of the Kapur Paya tree, a towering dipterocarp species, at least two million years old. This discovery provides new insights into the ecological importance and historical significance of these forests, emphasizing the need for conservation.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·TypeObservational study·DateMay 9, 2025

Krebs von den Lungen-6 as a biomarker for distinguishing between interstitial lung disease and interstitial lung abnormalities based on computed tomography findings

Serum Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) levels are significantly elevated in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD), suggesting its potential as a diagnostic biomarker. The study also highlights the relationship between KL-6 levels and pulmonary function, specifically forced vital capacity.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMay 9, 2025

An enzyme as key to protein quality

A recent study published in Nature Communications highlights the crucial role of the ubiquitin-selective unfoldase p97/VCP in breaking down aggresomes, which are protein aggregates that can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. The research found that blocking this enzyme leads to improper protein folding and aggregation.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

New research forecasts the spread of invasive snail Physella acuta in China: risks to ecosystems and economy

A new study predicts the invasive snail Physella acuta will thrive in southern China but face increased risk in northern regions, underscoring the need for targeted monitoring and control strategies. The study highlights the need for coordinated efforts to mitigate the ecological and economic impacts of this formidable invader.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalScience in One Health·TypeNews article·DateMay 9, 2025

Sexual problems often overlooked at the doctor's office

A new study highlights the need for better patient-provider communications regarding sexual health, particularly among general practitioners. Despite considering treating sexual problems an important healthcare practice, GPs are more likely to report barriers due to short appointment times and lack of knowledge about sexual medicine.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·TypeSurvey·DateMay 9, 2025

Chimpanzee groups drum with distinct rhythms

Researchers found that eastern and western chimpanzees exhibit different drumming patterns, including evenly spaced hits and alternating intervals. Western chimpanzees use a faster tempo and integrated their drumming earlier in pant-hoot vocalizations.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 9, 2025

Bringing superconducting nanostructures to 3D

An international team led by the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids created three-dimensional superconducting nanostructures with controlled superconducting states and demonstrated motion of nanoscale defects in a 3D bridge-like superconductor. This breakthrough enables the exploration of novel effects and development ...

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

Virtual nurse can persuade you to get vaccinated

Researchers from SWPS University developed a virtual nurse, FLORA, to persuade people to get vaccinated. Studies show that conversations with FLORA significantly increase willingness to vaccinate, even in low-risk groups. The approach can combat misinformation and conspiracy theories, promoting public health.

SourceSWPS University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2025

German satellite measures CO2 and NO2 simultaneously from power plant emissions for the first time

A research team used the EnMAP satellite to detect carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide in power plant emissions with unprecedented spatial resolution. The study provides new insights into industrial pollutant emissions and enables more transparent satellite-based monitoring.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 9, 2025

Cryo-EM structures of Nipah virus polymerase complex reveal highly varied interactions between L and P proteins among paramyxoviruses

The study resolved two cryo-EM structures of the Nipah virus L protein in complex with the P protein, revealing well-defined RdRp and PRNTase domains. The P protein formed a tetrameric bundle interacting with the L protein via hydrophobic interactions and zinc-binding sites essential for polymerase activity.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalProtein & Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

Heat- and oxygen-stable biocatalyst for hydrogen production

A new biocatalyst for hydrogen production has been discovered in a thermophilic bacterium, demonstrating exceptional heat and oxygen stability. The research team used various techniques to gain insights into the protein's structure and mechanism, revealing crucial amino acids that contribute to its high oxygen resistance.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

Machine learning powers new approach to detecting soil contaminants

A team of researchers at Rice University developed a new strategy for identifying hazardous pollutants in soil using light-based imaging and machine learning algorithms. The approach can detect toxic compounds like PAHs and PACs even when no experimental data is available, addressing a critical gap in environmental monitoring.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

A more realistic look at DNA in action

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that DNA's behavior changes in a crowded environment, affecting the amount of stress required for strand separation. The study used microscopic magnetic tweezers to investigate interactions between DNA and various molecules.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMay 9, 2025

Studies point to redlining as a ‘perfect storm’ for breast cancer

A University at Buffalo study found that historically redlined neighborhoods have a disproportionate impact on breast cancer factors and survival, with lower socioeconomic status and exposure to pollution contributing to the increased risk. The research suggests that addressing environmental disparities in these communities is crucial ...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCancer Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 9, 2025

Green fabrication of hybrid materials as highly sensitive X-ray detectors

Researchers have developed highly sensitive X-ray detectors using green fabrication methods, surpassing commercial detectors in both sensitivity and long-term stability. The new materials, which can be produced without solvents through ball milling, enable lower radiation exposure during medical imaging procedures.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

New research illustrates the relationship between moral outrage on social media and activism

A new study found that expressions of moral outrage on social media increase post virality but don't necessarily translate to petition signing behavior. Online expressions focusing on agency, group identity, and prosociality are more likely to generate signatures.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

Is air pollution exposure equal across South Korea?

A recent study from POSTECH University evaluated ground-level NO2 concentrations using satellite remote sensing data, revealing significant socioeconomic disparities in air pollution exposure. The research found that areas with higher socioeconomic levels had higher NO2 concentrations, contradicting previous findings in other countries.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 9, 2025