ScienceDaily: All - April 23, 2025
Today's top research news
Retinal clues to mental health
A new study has shown that evidence of genetic susceptibility to schizophrenia can be found in the retina. This finding could help improve the early detection of the disorder.
Robot see, robot do: System learns after watching how-to videos
Researchers have developed a new robotic framework powered by artificial intelligence -- called RHyME (Retrieval for Hybrid Imitation under Mismatched Execution) -- that allows robots to learn tasks by watching a single how-to video.
Range expansion in lesser goldfinches
New research shows that Lesser Goldfinches, a small songbird traditionally found in Southwest USA, are expanding their range northward through the Pacific Northwest at an unprecedented rate, providing insights into how species adapt to environmental change.
Light fields with extraordinary structure: Plasmonic skyrmion bags
A research group has manipulated light through its interaction with a metal surface so that it exhibits entirely new properties.
New species of electricity-conducting organism, name it after Tribe
Scientists have identified a novel species of bacteria that acts as electrical wiring, potentially ushering in a new era of bioelectronic devices for use in medicine, industry, food safety, and environmental monitoring and cleanup.
New technique expands tissues so hundreds of biomolecules can be seen inside cells
A new tissue expansion method enables scientists to use mass spectrometry imaging to simultaneously detect hundreds of molecules at the single cell level in their native locations.
A repurposed anti-inflammatory drug may help treat alcohol use disorder and related pain
A preclinical study finds that a drug already FDA-approved for treating inflammatory conditions may help reduce both alcohol intake and pain sensitivity -- two issues that commonly co-occur with alcohol use disorder (AUD).
How do you like them apples? Apple genus evolution revealed
A new comparison and analysis of the genomes of species in the genus Malus, which includes the domesticated apple and its wild relatives, revealed the evolutionary relationships among the species and how their genomes have evolved over the past nearly 60 million years. The research team identified structural variations among the genomes and developed methods for identifying genes associated with desirable traits, like tastiness and resistance to disease and cold, that could help guide future apple breeding programs.
The most effective prevention method for complications post lung transplant
When receiving a lung transplant, one of the most important complications to look out for is chronic lung allograft dysfunction, known as CLAD. Preventing this complication for those who receive a lung transplant is of the highest priority, as there are no universally effective treatments for CLAD once it is established.
Obesity disrupts 'reaction time' to starvation in mice
Researchers have revealed a temporal disruption in the metabolism of obese mice when adapting to starvation despite no significant structural disruptions in the molecular network. This is a breakthrough discovery as research including the temporal dimension in biology has been notoriously laborious and extracting systematic insight from big data has been difficult. Thus, this study paves the way for further research into more general metabolic processes, such as food intake and disease progression.
Using ChatGPT, students might pass a course, but with a cost
With the assumption that students are going to use artificial intelligence and large language models such as ChatGPT to do their homework, researchers set out to learn how well the free version of ChatGPT would compare with human students in a semester-long undergraduate control systems course.
Transformable flat-to-shape objects created using sewing technology
Researchers introduced a novel method for fabricating functional flat-to-shape objects using a computer-controlled sewing machine. The team's method uses the sewing machine to stitch pockets between layers of fabric, and stiff panels are inserted into the pockets. Multiple fabrics types can be used, ranging from muslin for heavy-duty applications to more delicate fabrics for decorative purposes. The materials can also be customized on a panel-by-panel basis to adapt to each object's needs. The researchers demonstrated how the materials can be chosen to support a variety of functional goals, such as using thicker plywood for a human-weight supporting chair and custom LED panels with sheer fabric for a functional lamp. Additionally, The technique also allows for additional mechanisms such as cords, magnets, and hook-and-loop fasteners to direct and stabilize flat-to-shape transitions.
Trash talk: As plastic use soars, researchers examine biodegradable solutions
Researchers document a multi-faceted global snapshot of the environmental aspects and trends surrounding single-use plastics in a review article. The researchers state that the largest area of application for biodegradable plastic materials is the packaging segment, which accounts for about half of single-use plastic production.
Major dust-up for water in the Colorado River
Dust-on-snow is a major threat to water in the Colorado River, yet no snowmelt forecasts integrate dust-accelerated melt. Using pioneering remote sensing techniques, new research is the first to capture how dust impacts the headwaters of the Colorado River system. The new method could help predict the timing and magnitude of snow darkening and impacts on melt rates on snowpacks, in real time.
Empowering antibodies to better activate the immune system
Antibodies are best known for their ability to latch onto and neutralize bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. But these immune proteins can do more than that: They also activate other components of the immune system, which then go to work to clear an infection. A new study explores the factors that influence how effectively antibodies engage specific immune cells.
Shining a light on DNA: A rapid, ultra-sensitive, PCR-free detection method
Researchers have developed a light-induced DNA detection method that enables rapid, PCR-free genetic analysis. Their technique offers ultra-sensitive mutation detection in just five minutes, reducing costs and simplifying testing. The method has significant potential in healthcare, environmental conservation, and personal health monitoring.
A colloidal crystal model for controlled polymorph selection
Researchers explored a colloidal crystal model to produce specific polymorphs, required for use in materials science and pharmaceuticals.
Brain-inspired AI breakthrough: Making computers see more like humans
Researchers have developed a new artificial intelligence (AI) technique that brings machine vision closer to how the human brain processes images. Called Lp-Convolution, this method improves the accuracy and efficiency of image recognition systems while reducing the computational burden of existing AI models.
Asymmetric interactions between molecules may serve as a stabilizing factor for biological systems. A new model reveals this regulatory role of non-reciprocity. The scientists aim to understand the physical principles based on which particles and molecules are able to form living beings and, eventually, organisms.
Uncontrolled glutamate release in the brain
Upon energy restriction, an unusual release of the neurotransmitter glutamate can be observed. The overabundance of glutamate ultimately causes damages to nerve cells.
Tuning in to blood glucose for simpler early diabetes detection
Scientists have identified a simple, noninvasive method for assessing blood glucose regulation using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data. Their approach, which tracks glucose fluctuations, outperforms traditional markers in predicting diabetes risk. To expand accessibility, they have developed a web application for easy calculation of CGM-based indices.
Insects are disappearing due to agriculture -- and many other drivers, new research reveals
Insects are disappearing at an alarming rate worldwide, but why? Agricultural intensification tops the list of proposed reasons, but there are many other, interconnected drivers that have an impact, according to new research.
Can hormone therapy improve heart health in menopausal women?
Oral hormone therapy may benefit heart health in menopausal women. A new analysis of data from the Women's Health Initiative found that estrogen-based oral hormone therapy had a long-term beneficial effect on biomarkers of cardiovascular health, including cholesterol.
Oil cleanup agents do not impede natural biodegradation
Biodegradation is an important natural process during oil spill cleanup. A new study revealed that using spill treating agents does not negatively impact naturally occurring biodegradation.
Telemedicine use in 2023 reduced monthly carbon dioxide emissions by the equivalent of up to 130,000 gas operated vehicles or recycling up to 4 million trash bags.
First new subtype of Castleman Disease discovered in 45 years
A newly identified subtype of Castleman disease will help diagnose and properly treat thousands of patients who have been caught between existing classification systems, marking the first major discovery of its kind in 45 years. 'Oligocentric Castleman Disease' (OligoCD) has been found to be a distinct clinical entity, different from the two previously identified classifications of Castleman Disease. The findings redefine the understanding of this rare immune disorder that affects an estimated 4,300 to 5,200 Americans.
Three-dimensional gene hubs may promote brain cancer
The way DNA folds inside the nucleus of brain cells may hold the key to understanding a devastating form of brain cancer called glioblastoma, suggests a new preclinical study. The findings offer a new way to think about cancer beyond gene mutations, based on the way that genes are connected and regulated in three-dimensional space.
In US, saving money is top reason to embrace solar power
Financial benefits, such as saving on utility payments and avoiding electricity rate hikes, are a key driver of U.S. adults' willingness to consider installing rooftop solar panels or subscribing to community solar power, a new study suggests.
A sustainable diet leaves room for two chicken breasts a week
We should eat less meat and more legumes, campaigns and dietary advice tell us. But how much is 'less'? Researchers have an answer.
Tackling parasite devastating fish farmers around the world
At the heart of the Amazon researchers are investigating a mysterious parasite which is devastating fish farms around the world.
Using blue light to fight drug-resistant infections
Researchers have made a breakthrough discovery that could potentially revolutionize treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections, cancer and other challenging gram-negative pathogens without relying on precious metals.
Evidence of potential bed bug insecticide resistance in gene mutation
Urban entomologists have discovered a gene mutation that could contribute to bed bug insecticide resistance.
Astronomers discover a planet that's rapidly disintegrating, producing a comet-like tail
A planet 140 light-years from Earth is rapidly coming apart due to its close proximity to its star. The roasting planet is effectively evaporating away: It sheds an enormous amount of surface minerals as it whizzes around its star.
Study reveals gaps in flu treatment for high-risk adults
A multi-state study reveals that many high-risk adults diagnosed with influenza (flu) in emergency departments and urgent care centers are not receiving timely antiviral treatment. Researchers found that only slightly more than half of these patients received antiviral prescriptions, and of those, only 80 percent were filled. This gap in treatment could increase the risk of severe flu complications, particularly for older adults and those with underlying conditions.
Better feed, fewer burps: Scientists target dairy gas emissions
Researchers are testing a new type of cattle feed that could help dairy cows release less methane gas from burps and flatulence and use nutrients more efficiently. Because methane traps heat in the atmosphere, reducing these emissions could make dairy farming more environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Drugs targeting 'zombie cells' show promise for treating chronic back pain
In a preclinical study, two drugs targeting 'zombie cells' have been shown to treat the underlying cause of chronic low back pain. The condition affects millions of people worldwide. Current treatments manage symptoms through painkillers or surgery, without addressing the root cause.
Adolescents who sleep longer perform better at cognitive tasks
Adolescents who sleep for longer -- and from an earlier bedtime -- than their peers tend to have improved brain function and perform better at cognitive tests, researchers have shown. But the study of adolescents in the US also showed that even those with better sleeping habits were not reaching the amount of sleep recommended for their age group.
How dopamine helps us learn to avoid bad outcomes
Dopamine is the brain's motivational spark, driving us to chase what feels good, say scrolling another reel on social media, and steer clear of what doesn't, like touching a hot stove. But scientists haven't fully understood how dopamine helps us learn to avoid bad outcomes -- until now. A new study shows that dopamine signals in two key brain areas involved in motivation and learning respond differently to negative experiences, helping the brain adapt based on whether a situation is predictable or controllable. While previous research has shown that dopamine can respond to negative experiences, this is the first study to track how those signals evolve over time as animals move from novices to experts in avoiding them.
Novel treatment approach for language disorder shows promise
Neuroscientists have developed a new treatment approach for a language disorder that combines traditional speech therapy with noninvasive electrical stimulation of the brain. Brain stimulation helped induce neuroplasticity, the brain's capacity to continue to reorganize and learn.
More Americans are using psilocybin -- especially those with mental health conditions, study shows
Use of psilocybin, the hallucinogenic chemical found in what is known as 'magic mushrooms,' has increased significantly nationwide since 2019, according to a new study.
The eukaryotic cell emerged as an evolutionary algorithmic phase transition
An international collaboration has published groundbreaking research, shedding light on the most significant increase in complexity in the history of life's evolution on Earth: the origin of the eukaryotic cell.
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Thank you for sharing these important findings important to have science in our lives👏