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Science News for March 21, 2025


A new CAR-T-cell therapy that tricks the tumor could increase treatment efficiency in B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Researchers have developed a new approach to improve CAR-T cell therapy effectiveness in treating B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. By creating a TIM-3 decoy, they aim to prevent the tumor from turning off the CAR-T cells, leading to improved anti-leukaemia effectiveness and long-term persistence.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2025

Hydrothermal liquefaction of sewage sludge: a promising solution for circular bioeconomy

The study finds hydrothermal liquefaction effective in breaking down complex organic compounds, producing high-energy density bio-oil and reducing pollutants like microplastics and pharmaceutical residues. Further research is needed to optimize HTL processes and explore alternative catalysts and solvents to enhance efficiency and reduc...

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 21, 2025

Prof. Xiaozhen Li from Northwestern Polytechnical University reviewed the rencent advancement in conjugated small molecular nanoparticles for near-infrared biomedical applications

Conjugated small molecular nanoparticles (CSMNs) have shown promise in near-infrared phototheranostics (NIR PTs) for imaging, therapy, and synergistic treatment. Strategies to improve performances and extend absorption wavelengths are crucial for their clinical translations.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateMar 21, 2025

Study uncovers link between childhood overweight and obesity and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in adulthood

Research suggests that having an overweight or obesity trajectory during childhood is associated with a higher risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adulthood. The study found that women with above-average childhood BMI trajectories had a 26% higher risk, while those with an obesity BMI trajectory had a 65% higher risk.

New model predicts how bacteria navigate obstacles to spread

A new model predicts how bacteria navigate obstacles to spread, informing strategies for curbing infections or designing better drug delivery. The model focuses on three surface states: uninterrupted movement, sliding along surfaces, and getting stuck in corners.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 21, 2025

Hebrew SeniorLife’s Shivani Sahni, PhD, named inaugural Excellence in Nutrition Fellow of the American Society of Nutrition

Shivani Sahni, PhD, recognized for her contributions to nutrition science and practice as an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. She directs the Nutrition Program and co-directs the Musculoskeletal Research Center at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research.

Texas A&M-led study suggests former inmates struggle to access medical care — even when it’s nearly free

A Texas A&M-led study found that many former prisoners stop taking medications for chronic illnesses shortly after release, even when enrolled in Medicaid. The research suggests that insurance alone may not be enough to ensure access to healthcare, and new policies could guide former inmates as they rejoin their communities.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 21, 2025

Carbon-negative manufacturing method creates strong building materials

Researchers developed an electrochemical process to sequester carbon dioxide, transforming it into durable and fire-resistant materials. The resulting mineral-polymer composites demonstrate exceptional mechanical strength and fracture toughness, offering a promising solution for carbon-negative construction.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·Journalnpj Advanced Manufacturing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 21, 2025

Weight loss protects – even when weight is regained

A Swedish study of over 1,300 participants found that losing a significant amount of weight still offers protection against health issues like cancer and cardiovascular disease, even if some weight is regained. However, regaining weight can increase the risk of microvascular disease and other health problems.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 2025

Cholesterol-elevating substances in coffee from machines at work

A new study by Uppsala University found that coffee machines in workplaces frequently produce coffee with high levels of cholesterol-elevating substances, which can affect LDL cholesterol levels and future cardiovascular disease risk. Regular drip-filter coffee makers filter out most of these substances.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNutrition Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 21, 2025

Relax, I'm cool

Researchers at Kyoto University develop thermomajorization theory to unify different distance measures, eliminating ambiguities in previous studies. The approach reveals the Mpemba effect is not restricted to specific temperature ranges, but can emerge across a wide spectrum of thermal conditions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 21, 2025

Recent study in mice provides key insights on the impact of excessive sucrose consumption in specific organs

A recent study using mice found that chronic sucrose consumption disrupts physiological processes, leading to diseases such as diabetes and obesity. The small intestine plays a key role in this process, causing an imbalance in glucose uptake and nutrient absorption.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2025

Four advances that could change tuberculosis treatment

Scientists have developed several innovative methods to combat tuberculosis, including a rapid fluorescence test that can diagnose the disease within minutes. Additionally, researchers have created sugar-coated nanoparticles that target infected macrophages, and encapsulated light-activated particles that inactivate bacteria with red l...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 21, 2025

How black holes could nurture life

Researchers found that AGN radiation can have a paradoxically nurturing effect on life, especially when oxygen levels are present, allowing the planet's protective ozone layer to grow and shield it from radiation. This process can help ensure life's success, but its effects depend on how close the planet is to the source of radiation.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 21, 2025

Quantum leap: Graphene unlocks orbital hybridization

A research team has achieved orbital hybridization in graphene-based artificial atoms, a significant milestone in quantum physics and materials science. This breakthrough provides a new platform for simulating real atomic processes, with potential applications in quantum computing and nanoelectronic devices.

SourcePeking University·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2025

SNU researchers develop an electrochemical catalyst for high-efficiency, low-cost, and eco-friendly hydrogen production

Researchers at Seoul National University have developed a novel core-shell nanocluster catalyst that significantly improves the efficiency of hydrogen production while reducing costs. The new catalyst features a ruthenium-based nanocluster with exceptional stability and performance, making it suitable for commercial applications.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2025

New study sheds light on how bacteria ‘vaccinate’ themselves with genetic material from dormant viruses

Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered how bacteria protect themselves from certain phage invaders by seizing genetic material from weakened, dormant phages and forming a biological 'memory' that their offspring inherit. This process allows the bacteria to recognize and fight off similar viruses in the future.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 21, 2025

“Concierge” screening for kidney transplant candidates leads to better outcomes, UNM researcher finds

A new 'concierge' approach called the Kidney Transplant Fast Track enables more people to receive transplants and erases racial disparities. This streamlined process coordinates testing onsite and often performed by the transplant center, increasing patient suitability and reducing wait times.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeCase study·DateMar 21, 2025

High-skill information in subseasonal ensemble forecasting

A recent study assesses the forecasting skill of subseasonal ensemble models for extreme cold events in East Asia, revealing that some ensemble members exhibit significantly high forecasting skill. These high-skill members can accurately predict rapid changes in surface air temperature and minimum temperature during an event.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMar 21, 2025

New machine learning framework enhances precision and efficiency in metal 3D printing, advancing sustainable manufacturing

Researchers at University of Toronto develop a new framework to optimize laser Directed Energy Deposition (AIDED) for higher quality and more reliable metal parts. The AIDED framework uses machine learning to predict optimal process parameters and enhance the accuracy and robustness of finished products.

Cosmic anomaly hints at frightening future for Milky Way

Astronomers have discovered a cosmic anomaly that challenges our understanding of the universe, revealing a spiral galaxy harboring a supermassive black hole billions of times the Sun's mass. This discovery forces us to rethink how galaxies evolve and how supermassive black holes grow in them.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 2025

Accelerating the proton transfer among electrolyte-electrode interface via regulating the interfacial hydrogen bond networks induced by extra catalytic centers

Researchers developed a strategy to regulate hydrogen bond networks at electrolyte-electrode interfaces, accelerating proton transfer in CO2 reduction reactions. The approach involves introducing extra catalytic centers, such as cubic phase molybdenum carbide, to enhance water dissociation and facilitate proton generation.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2025

How the brain responds to prices: Scientists discover neural marker for price perception

Researchers found that perceiving prices significantly different from expectations triggers a strong N400 signal in the brain, engaging regions involved in evaluating rewards and learning. This suggests that consumers' perceptions of value are part of automatic cognitive mechanisms activated long before conscious decision-making.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2025

Obesity Action Coalition & The Obesity Society send letter to FDA on behalf of more than 20 leading organizations & providers urging enforcement of compounding regulations

More than 20 leading organizations and providers urge the FDA to take action following the recent resolution of GLP-1 medicine shortages. Signatories include the Alliance for Women’s Health & Prevention, Association of Black Cardiologists, and National Hispanic Medical Association.

New study sheds light on risks from residential heat and energy burdens in Miami

A new study reveals that many residents in Miami-Dade County face dual challenges of dangerously hot homes and unaffordable cooling costs, driving health and well-being risks. The research identifies four pathways explaining which households are burdened by poor building or air conditioner quality, low income, or household factors.

Pollutants often originate in the air

Researchers at CERN's CLOUD simulation chamber found that anthropogenic organic aerosols form after multiple oxidation steps, with a significant impact on regional air quality. The study suggests that controlling precursor gases, not just direct emissions, is crucial to combatting air pollution and improving public health.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2025

New real-time method for environmental monitoring

The HyperNIR technology uses hyperspectral imaging to obtain detailed spectral information from various materials and biological samples in real time. This allows for efficient monitoring of environmental processes and has potential applications in biomedicine, such as detecting nutrient content in plants and identifying pest infestati...

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMar 21, 2025

Nearly half of depression diagnoses could be considered treatment-resistant

A new study suggests that nearly half of depression diagnoses could be considered treatment-resistant, with 48% of patients trying at least two antidepressants and 37% trying four or more. This highlights the need for better treatment options to support patients who don't respond to first-line medications.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 21, 2025

Home sweet home: some great hammerhead sharks stick to the perfect neighborhood in the Bahamas instead of migrating

Scientists tracking great hammerhead sharks in the Bahamas have discovered that some individuals choose to stay at home, rather than migrate, due to the availability of resources and favorable environment. This finding provides crucial information for protecting the critically endangered species.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 2025