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Science News for March 20, 2025


Real-time global CO₂ tracking with AI

A new AI model, Spectrum Transformer (SpT), enables near-real-time global CO2 monitoring by reducing computational time from minutes to milliseconds. The SpT model demonstrates high accuracy and robustness in retrieving atmospheric CO2 concentrations from satellite data.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateMar 20, 2025

IU geoscientists co-author study that finds mountain formation drives biodiversity growth

A new study co-authored by Indiana University researchers finds that mountain formation directly influences the evolution of species. The study's findings suggest that as mountains rise, they create new habitats and isolate populations, leading to the emergence of new species through a process known as allopatric speciation.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 20, 2025

Infantile epilepsy detection: A breakthrough video-based approach for accurate identification of infantile spasms

A new method detects epileptic seizures in infants using a video-based approach, enhancing accuracy for diagnosis and disease management. The technique involves feature recognition and utilizes an optimized 3D-ResNet architecture to extract key features from video frames.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalJournal of Shanghai Jiaotong University (Science)·TypeNews article·DateMar 20, 2025

Preserved shark jaws can reveal diet history

Researchers have found that chemicals used to preserve shark jaws do not affect isotopes, enabling the use of preserved jaws for revealing what sharks eat and where they feed. This study contributes valuable insights to the field of stable isotope analysis in shark and ray teeth.

SourceFlinders University·JournalMarine Environmental Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

New sensor could help prevent lithium-ion battery fires and explosions

Researchers have developed a new sensor to detect hazardous gas leaks in lithium-ion batteries, which could prevent catastrophic failures and enhance the reliability of battery-powered technologies. The sensor detects trace amounts of ethylene carbonate vapour, targeting potential battery failures before they escalate into disasters.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

Silk sponges instead of animal testing: How a 3D cell culture system could revolutionize cancer diagnostics

Researchers have developed a bioanalytical test system using human cells on a silk matrix to test active ingredients under realistic conditions. The new method enables efficient evaluation of future cancer diagnostics and has the potential to significantly reduce animal testing, accelerating the development of radiopharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 20, 2025

A proposed legalisation of polygamy in Australia

Researchers propose a legalisation of polygamy in Australia that would allow for the recognition of non-monogamous relationships. The proposed law would not disrupt the foundations of Australian marriage law and could provide greater freedom for couples.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalThe University of Queensland Law Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 20, 2025

Duke-NUS and NUS Medicine join forces to launch Systems Metabolomics Center for precision medicine

The Systems Metabolomics Centre will focus on three key areas: profiling populations of healthy people and those living with specific illnesses, leveraging state-of-the-art metabolomic technologies to drive biomarker discovery and metabolism research. The centre aims to develop non-invasive tests, detect diseases earlier and guide doct...

People select feedback to flatter others, except when they dislike them

Researchers found that people prefer to share information that enhances others' positive self-views, especially if the other person has a likable or neutral personality. However, this tendency disappears when the other person is perceived as dislikable or when the goal of providing accurate information is emphasized.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

Southeast Asia’s fisheries benefit from small-scale, multispecies capture

Despite decades of overfishing warnings, Southeast Asia's catch fisheries have maintained biodiversity and ecological health, with a three-fold higher ratio of underfished stocks compared to the global average. This study highlights the benefits of non-species-selective multispecies fishing practices in promoting sustainable fisheries.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalFisheries Science·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 20, 2025

UTEP researchers test new, more reliable method to detect chagas disease

UTEP researchers have developed a new diagnostic method that significantly enhances the sensitivity of parasite detection in blood samples, making it a more reliable indicator of parasites in the blood. The method uses magnetic beads to extract parasitic DNA from blood samples, outperforming traditional silica columns.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateMar 20, 2025

Parents’ advice benefits African American youth – when they seek support

A study found that African American youth who sought parental advice and received elaborate cognitive restructuring guidance had more positive social appraisals. Practitioners can equip parents with tools to enhance their parenting strategies and provide supportive guidance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalSocial Development·TypeObservational study·DateMar 20, 2025

Computational drug discovery: Exploring natural products targeting SARS-CoV-2

A recent study identifies 11 natural compounds that can inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, including caffeine, which exhibits high binding stability and excellent solubility. The discovery highlights the potential of natural products in combating COVID-19 and demonstrates the versatility of widely known compounds like caffeine.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 20, 2025

Green recipe: Engineered yeast boosts D-lactic acid production

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed an engineered yeast that can produce record-high yields of D-lactic acid from methanol, a key compound used in biodegradable plastics and pharmaceuticals. The optimized yeast strain achieves a 1.5-fold boost in production compared to other methanol-based methods.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

Aotearoa once home to elephant seals

New Zealand's beaches were once home to elephant seals, a species that has largely disappeared due to climate change and human activity. The study reveals that the animals' dynamic evolutionary history provides insights into how they may be impacted in the future.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeCase study·DateMar 20, 2025

Cambridge team uses powerful new MRI scans to enable life-changing surgery in first for adults with epilepsy

A new MRI technique has been successfully used to treat adults with drug-resistant epilepsy, allowing doctors to offer life-changing surgery to patients. The parallel transmit 7T scanner identified previously unseen structural lesions in nine patients, confirming the effectiveness of the treatment option.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEpilepsia·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 20, 2025

Tuberculosis in children and adolescents: EU/EEA observes a rise in 2023

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reports a rise in tuberculosis cases among children and adolescents in the EU/EEA, with a slight increase in the notification rate from 2.0 to 2.5 per 100,000 population. The highest proportion of paediatric TB was observed in children aged 1 to 4 years old.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 20, 2025

How family background can help lead to athletic success

A new study suggests that family background, including socioeconomic status, has a profound impact on athletic success. Research found that students from high SES families were more likely to play sports and achieve success, while those from low SES families faced barriers to participation. The study's findings challenge the common not...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal for the Study of Sports and Athletes in Education·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 20, 2025

Generating asset pricing model via symbolic modeling—a machine learning-based approach

Researchers developed a machine learning-based method called Symbolic Modeling to handle financial asset pricing tasks, reducing prediction errors compared to traditional models. The approach uses genetic programming and deep learning to automatically generate nonlinear expressions that adapt to multiple datasets.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalThe Journal of Finance and Data Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 20, 2025

Potential treatment for chronic kidney disease in dogs revealed

A new study suggests that paricalcitol may help manage chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs by reducing renal secondary hyperparathyroidism and proteinuria. The treatment showed promise in stabilizing proteinuria, but raised questions about potential long-term effects on CKD progression.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of Veterinary Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 20, 2025

Discrimination in the application process? It depends

A study by social psychologist Melanie Steffens found that high qualifications can overcome negative stereotypes, but even small amounts of additional information can activate biases. Researchers also discovered that certain groups, such as Turkish women, are more likely to be excluded from job opportunities due to stereotypes.

SourceRheinland-Pfälzische Technische Universität Kaiserslautern-Landau·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

The emerging role of flavonoids in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus: regulating the enteroendocrine system

Research suggests flavonoids improve insulin sensitivity, enhance β-cell function, modulate the gut microbiota, inhibit gluconeogenesis, and regulate enteroendocrine hormones in type 2 diabetes management. Flavonoid-specific effects on GLP-1, GIP, PYY, and CCK secretion contribute to improved glycemic control.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalExploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine·DateMar 20, 2025

Prevalence and severity of astigmatism in children after COVID-19

A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that lifestyle changes after COVID-19 were associated with an increase in the prevalence and severity of child astigmatisms. The potential impact of higher degrees of astigmatism may warrant dedicated efforts to elucidate the relationship between environmental and/or lifestyle factors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 20, 2025

How could artificial intelligence be used globally to increase fairness in the distribution of public social services?

The AI FORA project analyzed how AI-based social assessment varies across nine countries and four continents, highlighting the need for flexible, dynamic, and adaptive systems that reflect social stakeholders' perspectives. The research aims to improve AI in addressing fairness and discrimination issues in public social services.

Majority of carbon sequestered on land is locked in nonliving carbon reservoirs

A new study finds that the majority of carbon dioxide absorbed by ecosystems is stored in dead plant material, soils, and sediments. This discovery suggests that terrestrial carbon stocks are more resilient and stable than previously thought, with most carbon sequestered over the last three decades stored in nonliving organic matter.

Could the layout of trees impact human health?

Researchers found that large, contiguous areas of well-networked tree canopies lower mortality risk in densely developed cities. Compact, geometrically simple areas of tree canopy also show a positive effect on health. The study suggests that connecting isolated green spaces and promoting biodiversity can support human health.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateMar 20, 2025

Novel solid-state electrolyte developed to enhance performance of all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries

Researchers developed a novel sulfide-based solid electrolyte with exceptional ionic conductivity, achieving high cycling stability and compatibility with various cathode and anode materials. The study enhances the performance of all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries with wide temperature adaptability and long cycle life.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 20, 2025

Overcoming stacking constraints in hexagonal boron nitride via metal-organic chemical vapor deposition

Scientists at POSTECH and University of Montpellier successfully synthesized wafer-scale hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) with an AA-stacking configuration using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). This achievement introduces a novel route for precise stacking control in van der Waals materials.

Study finds foreign aid sanctions set back decades of progress on maternal and child mortality

A recent Stanford University study found that foreign aid sanctions can negate up to 64% of progress against maternal mortality, with similar impacts on infant and child mortality. The researchers estimate that sanctions lasting five years or more can lead to significant increases in death rates among mothers, children, and infants.

SourceStanford University·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 20, 2025

Mountain uplift and dynamic topography shapes biodiversity over deep time

Research reveals that mountain uplift and dynamic topography significantly shape biodiversity over geological timescales. By simulating millions of years of tectonic uplift, scientists found a direct link between species richness and the magnitude and pace of mountain building, with topographic relief stabilizing species equilibrium.

Self-assembled vesicles containing podophyllotoxin covalently modified with polyoxometalates for antitumor therapy

The team successfully prepared an amphiphilic drug molecule PPT-POM-PPT, which exhibits excellent anticancer activity against various tumor cells while showing low toxicity to normal cells. The self-assembling vesicles deliver the drug without additional carrier materials, improving stability and biocompatibility.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalPolyoxometalates·DateMar 20, 2025

Tiny component for record-breaking bandwidth

Researchers from ETH Zurich have developed a tiny plasmonic modulator that can transmit data with frequencies over a trillion oscillations per second, breaking previous records. The new modulator can be used for various applications, including high-performance computing and measurement technology.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalOptica·DateMar 20, 2025

How feathers develop in chickens

Researchers found that inhibiting the sonic hedgehog pathway restricts feather bud outgrowth and branching in chickens. Temporarily modified Shh expression resulted in proto-featherlike structures, highlighting the pathway's importance in feather development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

Adaptive defenses against malicious jumping genes

Scientists found that piRNA rapidly catches up with changes in jumping genes, improving efficiency through a competition between sites. This unique property of piRNA has implications for medical research and potential diagnostic or therapeutic strategies against unwanted genetic mutations.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

Beyond the cure: Navigating hepatocellular risk and surveillance after hepatitis C eradication in the direct-acting antiviral era

Direct-acting antivirals have reduced HCV-related morbidity and mortality, but hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk persists in certain populations. Risk factors include pre-treatment cirrhosis, metabolic disorders, and advanced fibrosis, highlighting the need for tailored surveillance strategies.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateMar 20, 2025

Oxygen discovered in most distant known galaxy

Astronomers have discovered oxygen in JADES-GS-z14-0, the most distant known galaxy, revealing a galaxy that is much more chemically mature than expected. The detection suggests galaxies formed rapidly and are maturing rapidly, contradicting previous theories about early universe formation.

SourceESO·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateMar 20, 2025

Anxiety disorders in children can be screened through school health care

A new study from the University of Turku screened school-age children for anxiety and found that a Master Your Worries programme reduced symptoms of generalised anxiety, social anxiety, and separation anxiety. The study also showed that lighter digital study materials can reduce anxiety symptoms in children.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMar 20, 2025

The fine control of cell mechanics

Researchers discovered that gamma-actin increases the rigidity of cell membranes while beta-actin filaments are less stiff. This mechanism may contribute to hearing loss by affecting the apical membrane's stiffness essential for auditory function.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateMar 20, 2025

Beating the clock: Melanoma starts evading treatment within hours – here’s how to stop it

Researchers at Institute for Systems Biology (ISB) have discovered a non-genetic adaptation mechanism that allows melanoma cells to evade BRAF inhibitors within hours. By blocking this early response with a combination therapy approach, the study aims to improve treatment outcomes and prolong the effectiveness of existing treatments.

SourceInstitute for Systems Biology·JournalCell Systems·DateMar 20, 2025

Study: new guidelines expanded access to lung cancer screening, but gaps remain in reaching rural and uninsured populations

The updated guidelines substantially increased lung cancer screenings overall, but disparities persist among people with limited access to healthcare. Barriers include cost, knowledge, and lack of primary care providers, with mobile units and patient navigators offering potential solutions.

From pollution to polymer: Methane-munching microbe brews biodegradable plastic at high speed

Researchers have developed a method to produce biodegradable plastics called polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) using methane-consuming bacteria. The production rate has been optimized to achieve high PHA yields, resulting in plastics with commercial quality and unique infrared signatures.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalSystems Microbiology and Biomanufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

New telehealth restrictions may limit opioid use treatment

Restricting telehealth prescriptions for opioid use disorder could keep thousands from accessing buprenorphine, a medication that helps people recover from addiction. Researchers found that requiring in-person visits may undo the progress made during the COVID-19 pandemic when telehealth increased access to this life-saving treatment.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 20, 2025

Efficacy of topical Nigella sativa L. with vinegar in the treatment of acne vulgaris

A study found that a topical formulation combining Kalonji (Nigella sativa) and Sirka (vinegar) showed therapeutic potential in treating mild to moderate acne vulgaris. The formulation was compared with a 5% benzoyl peroxide gel, with promising results but limitations such as a small sample size and short duration.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

Study links lack of oral health care with complications during pregnancy

A new study found that pregnant women who received preventive oral health care had a lower risk of developing gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders. The research highlights the importance of integrating oral health education and services into maternal healthcare, particularly in underserved populations.

SourceUniversity at Albany, SUNY·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 20, 2025

Graz University of Technology team decodes heat conduction of complex materials

Researchers at Graz University of Technology developed a new understanding of how complex materials like organic semiconductors and MOFs transport thermal energy. They discovered that phonon tunneling plays a crucial role in heat conduction, enabling targeted design of materials with specific thermal properties.

SourceGraz University of Technology·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 20, 2025

New rules for the game of memory

A new study from the University of Chicago suggests that patterns of activity in the brain continually reshape memories, even after learning has occurred. Researchers found that behavioral timescale synaptic plasticity (BTSP) is a key driver of this process, explaining the dynamic shifting of place cells in the hippocampus.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

A simple way to control superconductivity

Researchers from RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science have discovered a groundbreaking way to control superconductivity by adjusting the twist angle of atomically thin layers. This allows for fine-tuning of the superconducting gap, which is crucial for optimizing Cooper pair behavior and developing high-functionality quantum device...

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

AI technology for colon cancer detection shows promise for widespread use – in the future

A new clinical guideline from the American Gastroenterological Association suggests that artificial intelligence-assisted colonoscopy may improve polyp detection rates, but its impact on preventing colorectal cancer remains uncertain. The guideline recommends a cautious approach to widespread adoption, emphasizing the need for further ...

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·DateMar 20, 2025

Deep in the Mediterranean, in search of quantum gravity

A study published in JCAP has established upper limits on the strength of quantum gravity effects on neutrino oscillations, providing valuable insights into the long-sought theory. The results show no signs of decoherence, a phenomenon that could be a key indicator of quantum gravity's presence.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025