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Science News for March 13, 2025


Princeton-led study highlights widespread health co-benefits from all-of-society clean energy actions in the US

A Princeton study finds that transitioning to clean energy reduces emissions and improves air quality, leading to significant public health benefits. The study estimates that combining federal and subnational clean energy actions can reduce 6,600 premature deaths nationally in 2030.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalOne Earth·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 13, 2025

Bridging microscopic interactions and macroscopic traffic patterns: a novel approach to stochastic fundamental diagram modeling

Researchers propose a novel framework to model stochastic fundamental diagrams from microscopic interactions, deepening understanding of traffic flow's stochasticity. The Leader-Follower Conditional Distribution-based Stochastic Traffic Modeling (LFCD-STM) framework offers high consistency with real-world data and has implications for ...

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCommunications in Transportation Research·DateMar 13, 2025

USC study shows proteins and pathways involved in inflammation are associated with changes in bone mineral density over time

A USC study found proteins and pathways involved in inflammation are associated with changes in bone mineral density (BMD) over time. The research identified potential biomarkers that could serve as early indicators of a person's risk for bone health issues later in life.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 13, 2025

Symptoms of long-COVID can last up to two years after infection with COVID-19

A study of the COVICAT cohort found that almost one in four people infected with SARS-CoV-2 developed long COVID, with symptoms persisting for two years or more. Risk factors included severe COVID-19 infection and pre-existing chronic diseases, while vaccination before infection and a healthy lifestyle appeared to reduce the risk.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2025

Older adults might be more resistant to bird flu infections than children, Penn research finds

Researchers found that older adults exposed to seasonal flu viruses before 1968 have higher antibodies against the H5N1 avian flu virus. In contrast, young children who were not exposed had low levels of antibodies that could fight H5N1. The study suggests that younger adults and children would benefit more from H5N1 vaccinations.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Latin American intensivists denounce economic and cultural inequities in the global scientific publishing system

A study published in The Lancet highlights disparities and obstacles faced by low- and middle-income countries in gaining recognition for their scientific contributions. Researchers propose increasing visibility of journals from low- and middle-income countries, reducing publication fees, and ensuring a fairer peer-review process to fo...

Dramatic increase in research funding needed to counter productivity slowdown in farming

A new study estimates that US agriculture needs a 5-8% per year growth in research investment or $2.2 billion to $3.8 billion in additional funding to maintain productivity through 2050. The urgency is driven by the impact of climate change, which takes time to be addressed through publicly funded research and development.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 13, 2025

Weighing in on a Mars water debate

A recent PNAS study suggested Mars has a significant amount of liquid water in its mid-crust, but LASP Senior Research Scientist Bruce Jakosky challenges this conclusion. Using InSight mission data, the team found that the presence of water is not required by the data.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 13, 2025

Live, laugh, lotus: Why group texting during ‘The White Lotus’ feels so good

New research reveals that second-screening can create a sense of social connection, increasing engagement and repeat viewing intentions. When viewers are alone, reaching for their phone can deepen the experience by connecting with others in real-time. In contrast, second-screen use creates a disconnect when shared with others.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPsychology and Marketing·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Inverted pyramid sensor: paving the way for next-gen magnetic sensing

Researchers developed a pioneering 3-axis Hall-effect magnetic sensor with an inverted pyramid structure, offering significant advancements in sensitivity and offset reduction. The sensor boasts exceptional performance, with high current-related sensitivity and low crosstalk rate, making it ideal for high-precision applications.

Retiring abroad puts older adults at risk for loneliness, study finds

A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that retirees moving abroad are at a higher risk of loneliness. This is despite having better socioeconomic status and health compared to non-migrants. Maintaining social connections with family and new acquaintances in the destination country can mitigate this issue.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology and Aging·TypeSurvey·DateMar 13, 2025

Quantum-inspired cameras capture the start of life

Researchers at the University of Adelaide used quantum-sensitive cameras to image embryos, capturing biological processes in their natural state. The sensitive detection of photons allows for gentle illumination and minimizes damage from light, enabling researchers to study live cells and developing specimens.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAPL Photonics·DateMar 13, 2025

IL2RG gene therapy for X-SCID

Researchers have developed a new gene therapy protocol using the SIN-EFS-IL2RG.co vector, which demonstrates safety and efficacy in preclinical studies. The treatment restores immune functions and lacks oncogenicity, paving the way for further clinical trials in X-SCID patients.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateMar 13, 2025

New study reveals young, active patients who have total knee replacements are unlikely to need revision surgery in their lifetime

A new study by Hospital for Special Surgery researchers found that young, active patients who underwent total knee replacement were unlikely to require knee replacement revision in their lifetime. The study, which tracked outcomes for patients under 55 undergoing total knee replacement between 1977 and 1992, showed that 70% of patients...

Faeth Therapeutics and The Gog Foundation, Inc. (GOG-F) launch first phase 2 combination trial for sapanisertib-serabelisib in patients with endometrial cancer

A combination therapy of FTH-001 (serabelisib) and FTH-003 (sapanisertib) with paclitaxel is being investigated in a Phase 2 trial for patients with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer. The trial aims to target the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, which is frequently mutated in cancer.

SourceThe GOG Foundation Inc·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 13, 2025

Wartime destruction of Kakhovka Dam in Ukraine has long-term environmental consequences

The deliberate destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in Ukraine during the Russo-Ukrainian war unleashed a hidden environmental crisis, destroying ecosystems and releasing polluted sediments into downstream water systems. The study found that the collapse triggered substantial erosion, soil loss, and vegetation uprooting, driving extensive h...

UTEP Researchers develop portable, blood-based device that detects colon cancer

Researchers at the University of Texas at El Paso have developed a portable, blood-based device that can detect colon cancer using a biomarker called CCSP-2. The device has the potential to provide early detection and treatment options for this second-deadliest US cancer, making it a significant advancement in colorectal cancer screening.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalACS Measurement Science Au·DateMar 13, 2025

New CRISPRs expand upon the original’s abilities

Researchers have discovered new CRISPR-Cas systems with improved efficiency and specificity, including one from dairy cow bacteria that can target specific gene sequences. The new systems have potential applications in human health, biotechnology and environmental fields.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Stanford Medicine research explores the promise and perils of AI in citizen science

A new study investigates how AI can empower communities to actively participate in scientific research, addressing critical ethical considerations. The research aims to advance health equity and public health outcomes by enhancing citizen science with AI technologies such as conversational AI, generative AI, and predictive analytics.

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJMIR Public Health and Surveillance·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 13, 2025

ENDO 2025 opens media registration

Media professionals can register for ENDO 2025 to discuss groundbreaking research on obesity, diabetes, and more with world-renowned experts. The event features nearly 2,500 abstracts and over 200 sessions, offering a premier global conference in endocrinology research and clinical care.

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University identify RNA molecule as possible driver of gastric cancer

A team of researchers discovered a long intergentic non-coding RNA molecule, lincPRKD, that may provide a new target to prevent and treat gastric cancer. The study aims to determine how often this molecule is activated in gastric cancers and test whether it can be used for early detection.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalGastro Hep Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Researchers invent new method for developing accurate sensors for continuous health monitoring

The University of Turku researchers have developed a new method to create more accurate sensors for detecting subtle changes in the body, such as hormone fluctuations. By purifying and separating single-wall carbon nanotubes, they achieved precise control over their properties and identified their electrochemical characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateMar 13, 2025

Mutations disrupt touch-based learning, study finds

Research from the University of Florida found that mutations in the Syngap1 gene can lead to disrupted perceptual learning in mice, affecting their ability to interpret touch-based information. This study provides possible answers for understanding autism, intellectual disability, and other conditions with sensory processing issues.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Study: ‘Sustainable intensification’ on the farm reduces soil nitrate losses, maintains crop yields

A nine-year study found that a three-year crop rotation system can dramatically reduce nitrogen loss in farm runoff without compromising yield. Crops like cereal rye and winter wheat help maintain soil stability, reducing erosion and nutrient runoff.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Can AI help detect cognitive impairment?

Researchers developed a portable system using AI to spot cognitive impairment by measuring subtle differences in motor function. The device accurately identified 83% of participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), offering potential for early intervention and improved outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAlzheimer Disease & Associated Disorders·DateMar 13, 2025

Efficiently and sustainably killing bacteria

A new electrocatalytic sterilization method has been introduced using copper oxide nanowires to produce highly alkaline microenvironments that efficiently kill bacteria. Most conventional disinfection methods have disadvantages such as harmful by-products and high energy consumption.

SourceWiley·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Moffitt study finds new immunotherapy strategy for enhancing melanoma treatment

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute have discovered a new way to boost cancer immunotherapy by targeting the MARCO protein, which significantly enhances tumor regression in melanoma. This approach could help overcome resistance to current treatments and improve outcomes for patients with treatment-resistant...

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Prejudice against victims can result in reduced rape sentences

A study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that defendants receive lighter sentences when victims are described with rape myths, such as 'scantily clad' or 'being promiscuous'. This correlation holds true even with medical evidence and violence involved. The researchers aim to raise awareness about the use of exper...

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScandinavian Journal of Psychology·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 13, 2025

RSV hospitalization risk among older adults linked to age and certain risk conditions

A study found that RSV hospitalization rates increase progressively with age among older adults in Spain, with those over 85 years old facing the highest risk. Certain chronic conditions, such as blood cancer, COPD, and cardiovascular disease, also significantly increase the risk of hospitalization.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2025

Is it OK to eat ‘better’ meat?

Consumers purchasing natural pasture-raised beef believe high-quality meat is part of a sustainable diet, but struggle to link it to reduced overall intake. The study highlights the need for clearer definitions and guidance on sustainable meat consumption criteria.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalAgriculture and Human Values·DateMar 13, 2025

AI reveals new insights into the flow of Antarctic ice

Researchers at Stanford University used machine learning to analyze high-resolution remote-sensing data of ice movements in Antarctica, gaining new insights into the fundamental physics governing the large-scale movements of the Antarctic ice sheet. The study reveals that most of the ice shelf is anisotropic, with different physical pr...

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateMar 13, 2025

Researchers create high-performance ceramic powders with Archimedean shapes for next-gen heat shields

Scientists have successfully synthesized high-quality boride ceramic powders with an Archimedean shape, offering promising implications for the future of heat protection materials. The unique polyhedral morphology enhances mechanical and electrical properties, reducing oxidation resistance and improving material longevity at high tempe...

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of the European Ceramic Society·DateMar 13, 2025

Groundbreaking study reveals small polaron effect in Dion-Jacobson 2D lead halide perovskites, enhancing spin lifetime and optoelectronic performance

The study discovered a giant deformation potential of 123 eV, leading to exceptionally long polarization response times and enhanced spin lifetimes. Small polaron formation was confirmed through various techniques, including optical Kerr spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and phonon dynamics.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2025

Research team from Wesley Center for Immunotherapy at UH Seidman Cancer Center Awarded Top Scoring Abstract Award at the 2025 International Society for Cell and Gene Therapy Annual Meeting

A research team from UH Seidman Cancer Center developed an ultra-fast and highly scalable CAR T-cell therapy manufacturing platform, enabling wider utilization of the therapy. The approach resulted in significantly more favorable toxicity profiles compared to traditional CAR-T products.

A planetary boundary for geological resources: Limits of regional water availability

A recent study by researchers at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology estimates that 25 out of 32 key geological resources have exceeded sustainable water limits. This highlights the need for sustainable water use in resource production, particularly for water-intensive metals like copper.

AI emotion detection may fall short: real-life intense fear is shaped by context, not faces

A new study challenges the long-held belief that fear is primarily communicated through facial expressions, suggesting instead that situational context plays a critical role in fear recognition. The research involved analyzing real-life fear reactions in videos and found that facial expressions alone fail to reliably signal fear.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Statins, aspirin may impact muscle health in smokers

A new study suggests that statins can reduce chest muscle loss in smokers, while aspirin may contribute to increased muscle loss. The study examined data from 4,191 participants and found that statins protected pectoralis muscle area and density, whereas aspirin led to decreased muscle mass.

SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·DateMar 13, 2025

Researchers report the first experimental observation of Bose–Einstein condensation of a two-magnon bound state in a spin-1 triangular lattice

Scientists discovered Bose-Einstein condensation in a two-magnon bound state using the Multi-frequency High Field Electron Spin Resonance Spectrometer. This finding provides new insights into exotic quantum states of matter, potentially unlocking new phases of matter for future technologies.

Brazilian technology measures intracranial pressure more accurately and non-invasively

A new Brazilian technology developed by brain4care has been shown to measure absolute values of intracranial pressure (ICP) more accurately than existing non-invasive methods. The technology analyzes ICP's morphology and trend, allowing for early detection of neurological changes and enabling doctors to intervene quickly and accurately.

A closer look at severe tricuspid regurgitation in AFMR patients

A study found that 14.9% of AFMR patients had severe tricuspid regurgitation, affecting approximately one in seven patients, who were generally older and more likely to have atrial fibrillation, advanced heart failure symptoms, and significant right heart remodeling. The primary risk factors for severe TR were advanced age, permanent A...

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2025

Increasing contrasts in young people's mental wellbeing

A study from the University of Gothenburg found that young teenagers in Sweden reported higher depressive symptoms over two decades, with a greater proportion of adolescents feeling extremely well. Those who are struggling report feeling significantly worse, with increased self-deprecation among young women.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders Reports·TypeSurvey·DateMar 13, 2025

Tiny component for record-breaking bandwidth

Researchers from ETH Zurich have developed a tiny plasmonic modulator that can transmit data at frequencies over a trillion oscillations per second. This breakthrough device reduces energy consumption and increases measurement accuracy, enabling efficient optical fibre technology for 6G mobile communications.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalOptica·DateMar 13, 2025

Combination immunotherapy before surgery may increase survival in people with head and neck cancer

Researchers at University of North Carolina Health Care found that combination immunotherapy before surgery increased survival rates in people with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. The treatment regimen doubled or tripled the response rate versus single immunotherapy, leading to a survival benefit for up to a third of patients.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCancer Cell·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 13, 2025

Lowering bioenergetic age may help fend off Alzheimer’s

Researchers found that individuals with lower acylcarnitine levels declined more slowly and showed fewer cognitive decline symptoms compared to those with high acylcarnitine levels. Healthy lifestyle interventions, such as a plant-based diet and exercise, may help lower bioenergetic age and potentially delay or prevent Alzheimer’s onset.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 13, 2025

Experts propose new approach for bridging the gap between administrative and clinical priorities

Experts propose evidence-based work design to mitigate administrative harms and improve patient safety, quality of care, and workforce well-being. The new framework aims to integrate short-term financial metrics with long-term outcomes, sparking a transformation in organizational decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 13, 2025

Matter at the crossroads

Researchers at Weizmann Institute create innovative method to track rapid material changes using two laser beams, enabling precise reconstruction of optical delay changes. This advance could lead to the development of fastest processors possible, increasing data transmission speed.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 13, 2025

Study highlights noninvasive hearing aid

A new type of hearing aid using an array of micro-epidermal actuators can significantly improve the hearing experience for patients with conductive hearing loss. The device uses vibrations on the skin behind the ear to bypass the ear canal and directly reach the inner ear, enhancing sound quality and control.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalCommunications Engineering·DateMar 13, 2025

Scientists from IOCB Prague are on track of finding a treatment for autoimmune hair loss

Researchers from IOCB Prague have developed a compound that could treat alopecia areata by targeting the immune system. The substance, a series of prodrugs based on derivatives of itaconic acid, has shown efficacy in mice tests and may be administered orally.

Watching nature scenes can reduce pain, new study shows

A new study found that viewing nature can help ease how people experience pain by reducing the brain activity linked to pain perception. The research suggests that the pain-relieving effect of nature is genuine and could provide an alternative way to relieve pain, potentially used in conjunction with medication.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 13, 2025

Advancing sorghum science: drought-resilient crop for Spain's agricultural future

Scientists at CRAG have made significant progress in understanding sorghum's molecular mechanisms and improving its breeding, focusing on enhancing drought tolerance. The team has identified key genetic mechanisms and developed an efficient transformation method using a ternary vector system.

SourceCenter for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2025

Round up, just below, or precise amount? Choosing the final price of a product may be just a cultural thing

A study by Frontiers found that cultural dimensions influence price endings, with individualistic cultures preferring round prices, uncertain cultures choosing just-below prices, and long-term oriented cultures opting for precise prices. These findings have implications for retailers operating in global markets.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2025

For Nairobi’s informal settlements, diverse school lunches make a big difference

Incorporating neglected and underutilized species into school meal programs in Nairobi's informal settlements significantly improves nutrition for children while reducing costs. The study found that these climate-resilient crops, such as African nightshade and hyacinth bean, meet up to 30% of daily nutritional needs.

The long wait for bees to return to restored grasslands

Research by Kobe University reveals that restoring abandoned grasslands requires at least 75 years of continuous management to regain plant diversity. Pollinators also take time to adapt, with generalist insects like flies and hoverflies dominating recently restored sites.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2025