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Science News Archive October 2025 - Page 9


Page 9 of 54

The loser’s brain: how neuroscience controls social behavior

Researchers at OIST investigate the neural basis of social hierarchy in male mice, identifying brain cells involved in determining dominance. The study found that the 'loser effect' is attributed to activity of certain brain cells, called cholinergic interneurons, and has implications for understanding human social behaviors.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 7, 2025

Crosswalk confusion: MA drivers flummoxed by pedestrian hybrid beacons, find UMass Amherst researchers

A study by UMass Amherst researchers found that nearly a quarter of MA drivers run through the red light at pedestrian hybrid beacons. Drivers also often stop too soon or fail to slow down during flashing yellow phases, causing confusion and potential safety issues.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·TypeObservational study·DateOct 7, 2025

Researchers find key to stopping deadly infection

New research from Washington University School of Medicine identifies a key step in rotavirus infection and shows that disabling this process can prevent infection. The discovery opens up new avenues for therapeutic intervention, potentially treating not only rotavirus but also other pathogens with similar infection mechanisms.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2025

The hidden highways of the sky mapped

A new study from Lund University maps the hidden highways of the sky, revealing how environmental factors and species interaction affect animal distribution in the aerial habitat. The research highlights the importance of understanding the air as a dynamic environment that requires adaptation to preserve flying animals.

SourceLund University·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 7, 2025

First 3D genetic mapping of the heart uncovers genes implicated in sudden death

A new study has uncovered 42 genetic locations associated with hypertrophy of the left ventricle, a major risk factor for sudden death. The research, conducted using three-dimensional MRI images and genome-wide analysis, could lead to earlier identification of individuals at greater risk.

SourceMedical Research Council (MRC) Laboratory of Medical Sciences·JournalCirculation Genomic and Precision Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 7, 2025

Neutron scanning of coral fossils reveals Earth’s hidden climate history

A new method, pioneered by University of Sydney student Carra Williams, uses neutron computed tomography to identify well-preserved pockets of coral skeleton that can reveal precise timelines of sea-level and climate shifts. The technique has the potential to transform how scientists reconstruct ancient climates.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalGeochemistry Geophysics Geosystems·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2025

Pilot study finds prehabilitation program supports recovery in older adults facing major surgery

A pilot study found that a prehabilitation program combining physical therapy, nutrition, and mindset support improved postoperative outcomes in older adults. Participants showed increased walking speeds and better physical function scores after surgery.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2025

Scientists create ChatGPT-like AI model for neuroscience to build one of the most detailed mouse brain maps to date

Researchers have developed an AI model that creates a detailed map of the mouse brain featuring 1,300 regions/subregions. The CellTransformer model uses spatial transcriptomics data to identify previously uncharted subregions of the brain, opening new avenues for neuroscience exploration.

SourceAllen Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 7, 2025

DNA nanospring measures cellular motor power

Scientists have developed a DNA nanospring to measure the force of protein motors like KIF1A, which can lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The technique uses fluorescent imaging to detect the stretching of the DNA nanospring, allowing researchers to accurately measure the motor's power.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2025

Scientists agree chemicals can affect behavior, but industry workers more reluctant about safety testing

A recent study found that 97% of scientists agree chemicals can impact wildlife behavior, yet only 30% of industry respondents support behavioral tests in chemical safety assessments. The researchers advocate for consistent testing methods and better cooperation between sectors to address the risks.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalIntegrated Environmental Assessment and Management·TypeSurvey·DateOct 7, 2025

Elsevier Foundation and RIKEN launch “Envisioning Futures” report: paving the way for gender equity and women’s leadership in Japanese research

The 'Envisioning Futures' report shines a spotlight on the journeys, achievements, and challenges faced by women research leaders in Japan, offering a roadmap for institutional change. The report highlights the importance of inclusion, resilience, and collective action to build a research ecosystem where all voices are heard.