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Science News for March 3, 2025


HKU researchers unveil neuromorphic exposure control system to improve machine vision in extreme lighting environments

Researchers at HKU have developed a neuromorphic exposure control system that mimics human peripheral vision to achieve unprecedented speed and robustness in dynamic perception environments. The system operates at 130 million events/sec, enabling edge deployment and addressing limitations of traditional exposure control.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 3, 2025

Lack of medical oxygen affects millions

A report by the University of Auckland highlights that six out of ten people globally lack safe medical oxygen access, resulting in hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths. The lack of access is particularly severe in low and middle-income countries, with five billion people affected.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 3, 2025

Don't let this stress you out

Researchers at Kyoto University investigated the effects of two-hit stress on mouse behavior, revealing significant changes in the cerebellum. The study found increased microglia turnover, neuronal loss, and decreased brain connectivity, correlating with anxiety-like behaviors and mental disorders.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2025

3 Ways to reduce child sexual abuse rates

A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that coordinated, community-wide primary prevention efforts can significantly reduce child sexual abuse rates. The study showed a 17% decrease in substantiated cases and a 34% drop in unsubstantiated cases compared to a control group.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Can Rhizobium + low P increase the yield of common bean in Ethiopia?

Researchers found that combining Rhizobium inoculation with low phosphorus application increased plant growth, root nodulation, and grain yield of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in Ethiopia. The study suggests recommending this agronomic input for resource-poor farmers to increase local common bean yield.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Researchers develop highly robust, reconfigurable, and mechanochromic cellulose photonic hydrogels

The study introduces a new way to apply cellulose nanocrystals, resulting in high-strength, reconfigurable, and mechanochromic hydrogels with improved mechanical properties and dynamic color-changing abilities. These materials have potential uses in sustainable bioplastics, flexible electronic substrates, and smart photonic devices.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalMaterials Today·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 3, 2025

Researchers develop new in-cell ultraviolet photodissociation top-down mass spectrometry method

A new in-cell characterization method allows for the direct analysis of protein structures and conformations within living cells. The study reveals three main conformational forms of calmodulin, with the extended form being significantly more abundant than in purified form.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 3, 2025

Researchers develop high-water-soluble pyrene tetraone derivative to boost energy density of aqueous organic flow batteries

A team of researchers from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics has developed a high-water-soluble pyrene tetraone derivative that enhances the energy density of aqueous organic flow batteries. The new monomer achieves an ultra-high volumetric capacity of approximately 90 Ah/L, with excellent stability and cycling performance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 3, 2025

THE LANCET: More than half of adults and a third of children and adolescents predicted to have overweight or obesity by 2050

A major new analysis predicts that over half the world's adult population (3.8 billion) and a third of all children and adolescents (746 million) will be living with overweight or obesity by 2050. The study forecasts a substantial rise in obesity among young people globally, with an additional 186 million cases predicted by 2050.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 3, 2025

Survey suggests people with disabilities may feel disrespected by health care providers

A survey of 22,864 adults found that people with disabilities were more likely to report negative experiences with their healthcare provider's cultural responsiveness. The study highlights the need for future research on how adverse healthcare experiences affect health outcomes for patients with disabilities.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMar 3, 2025

Despite high employment rates, Black immigrants in the United States more likely to be uninsured, USC study shows

A recent USC study found that Black immigrants in the United States have a 9% higher likelihood of being uninsured compared to U.S.-born white adults, despite having a 70.2% employment rate. The disparity is attributed to wage penalties and systemic barriers related to race and immigration status.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2025

Vehicular emissions cause 342 premature deaths each year in greater Boston

Emissions from SUVs and light-duty trucks cause 90% of nitrogen dioxide-related deaths, with suburban driving linked to greatest health damages. The study's findings inform geographically targeted transportation policies and climate action plans for Boston and cities nationwide.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 3, 2025

Teaching kids how to become better citizens

Researchers at Ohio State University developed a social studies curriculum that taught fourth graders 'civic competencies,' including disciplinary thinking and argumentation skills. The results showed significant improvements in students' ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and consider multiple perspectives.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Social Studies Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Digital pedagogy for sustainable education transformation: Enhancing learner-centred learning in the digital era

The study proposes a digital pedagogy for sustainable educational transformation (DP4SET) framework that advocates for digital competence and evidence-based practice in the digital era. The DP4SET framework has been successfully applied in Chinese contexts, reshaping teaching and learning practices.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Digital Education·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Health departments need to play catch-up to the private sector: workforce is underpaid and may be less prepared for crises

A new study found that health department workforce roles are comparatively underpaid and have lower job requirements compared to the private sector. The findings highlight recruitment and retention challenges for health departments, particularly for leadership and management positions.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateMar 3, 2025

How a crucial DNA repair protein works—and what it means for cancer treatment

Researchers at Scripps Research have captured the first detailed images of polymerase theta (Pol-theta) in action, revealing its molecular processes responsible for a range of cancers. The study provides a blueprint for designing more effective cancer drugs by understanding how Pol-theta repairs DNA using a two-step process.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 3, 2025

Tattoos may be linked to an increased risk of cancer

Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark found that tattooed individuals are more frequently diagnosed with skin and lymphoma cancers compared to those without tattoos. The study suggests that chronic inflammation in the lymph nodes triggered by tattoo ink may lead to abnormal cell growth and an increased risk of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2025

Mizzou scientists develop a method that could lower medicine costs and contribute to cleaner energy and sustainability

Researchers have developed a novel electrochemistry approach to build new molecules using micelles from naturally occurring amino acids and coconut oil. This breakthrough method could reduce the cost of making medicines by combining solvents, electrolytes, and reaction boosters into one simple tool.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 3, 2025

Spitefulness linked to belief in conspiracy theories

New research by psychologists from Staffordshire University and the University of Birmingham identifies spite as a key factor that underlies conspiracy theory belief. Higher levels of spite are associated with a stronger belief in conspiracy theories, and it mediates the relationship between conspiracy theory belief and established pre...

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalJournal of Social Issues·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Study links intense energy bursts to ventilator-induced lung injury

A new study from Tulane University suggests that repeated collapse and reopening of alveoli during mechanical ventilation may cause microscopic tissue damage, contributing to ventilator-related injuries. The research identified that minimizing these cycles could significantly reduce lung injury and improve patient outcomes.

SourceTulane University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2025

A hot droplet can bounce across a cool pan, too

Researchers discovered that hot and burning droplets can bounce off cool surfaces due to the formation of an invisible air cushion. This phenomenon has potential applications in slowing fire spread and improving engine efficiency.

SourceCell Press·JournalNewton·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Synthetic microbiome therapy suppresses bacterial infection without antibiotics

Researchers developed a synthetic microbiome therapy using limited strains of gut bacteria to effectively protect against C. difficile infections in mice. The treatment was as effective as traditional fecal transplants and had fewer safety concerns, offering a new alternative for treating this notoriously difficult-to-treat infection.

SourcePenn State·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2025

SwRI, U-Michigan engineers create more effective burner to reduce methane emissions

Researchers at SwRI and U-M have created a new methane flare burner using additive manufacturing and machine learning that eliminates 98% of methane vented during oil production. The burner's design, with a complex nozzle base and impeller, allows for efficient combustion even in challenging crosswind conditions.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Dental implants still functional after forty years

A recent study from the University of Gothenburg found that dental implants continue to function well after nearly forty years. The implants, developed by Professor Per-Ingvar Brånemark, have been shown to remain stable and integrate with bone over an extended period.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalClinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2025

ChatGPT on the couch? How to calm a stressed-out AI

Studies show that AI chatbots, when exposed to traumatic content, exhibit increased anxiety levels. However, researchers at the University of Zurich have found that therapeutic prompts can significantly reduce these elevated anxiety levels in language models like ChatGPT.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Who carries and uses Naloxone in the U.S.?

A new study provides the first nationwide picture of who knows about, carries, and uses naloxone to reverse deadly opioid overdoses. The survey found that people's perception of overdose risk correlates with their decision to carry naloxone, and those with high-risk profiles are more likely to carry the drug.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2025

Insilico Medicine and Tenacia Biotechnology announce research collaboration focused on CNS therapeutics discovery using generative AI

The collaboration combines Insilico's Pharma.AI platform with Tenacia's expertise in CNS biology and clinical development. By leveraging generative AI, the partnership seeks to expand therapeutic options and enhance outcomes for patients worldwide. Recent successes by Insilico include the nomination of ISM8969, a BBB penetrable NLRP3 i...

Novel research shows brain connections can predict future substance use in adolescents

Researchers found that brain connectivity related to cognitive control predicted substance use initiation, while cognitive control behavior did not. Stronger connectivity between the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with delayed substance use onset.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 3, 2025

New research sheds light on breastfeeding barriers in rural communities

A study from the University of Missouri found that rural first-time moms are more likely to stop breastfeeding due to a lack of practical knowledge, community support, and access to lactation consultants. The research aims to improve support and resources for new mothers in rural areas.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Obstetric Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2025

Researchers develop enhanced method for wastewater surveillance of antibiotic resistance

A new method for detecting antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in wastewater has been developed by researchers, which uses CRISPR-Cas9 technology to enrich ARG fragments and increase detection sensitivity. This enhanced method was found to detect 1189 more ARGs and 61 more ARG families compared to standard metagenomics methods.

March issues of APA journals feature research on treatment of depression and OCD, digital mental health innovations, and more

The March issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services bring together new developments in treating depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizophrenia. These journal publications highlight the latest advancements in digital mental health innovations.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 3, 2025

Uncovering the protein complex critical to male fertility

Researchers from Osaka University have identified a protein complex crucial for male fertility, revealing the TEX38/ZDHHC19 interaction regulates sperm development and structure. The study found that disrupting this complex can cause sperm deformity and infertility, providing insight into the causes of male infertility.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

Sleep patterns may reveal comatose patients with hidden consciousness

New research from Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian reveals that brain waves indicative of normal sleep patterns can predict recovery in comatose patients with recent brain injuries. Patients with well-defined sleep spindles are more likely to recover consciousness and functional independence, with 76% showing evidence of co...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

It’s not just what you say – it’s also how you say it

A Northwestern University study discovered a region of the brain processes subtle changes in voice pitch, transforming them into meaningful linguistic information that guides human understanding. The findings challenge long-held assumptions about speech perception and have implications for speech rehabilitation, AI-powered voice assist...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

We feed gut microbes sugar, they make a compound we need

Researchers at Kobe University discovered that gut microbes convert glucose into short-chain fatty acids when fed sugar, highlighting a new symbiotic relationship. This finding could lead to the development of novel therapeutics for regulating gut microbiota and their metabolites.

SourceKobe University·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025

One of the largest psychotherapy trials in the world has implications for transforming mental health care during pregnancy and after birth

A large psychotherapy trial has demonstrated that trained nurses, midwives, and doulas can deliver effective talk therapy, significantly improving symptoms of depression and anxiety in pregnant and postpartum individuals. The study also found that online therapy is equally beneficial to in-person sessions.

SourceLunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 3, 2025

Melting Antarctic ice sheets will slow Earth’s strongest ocean current

Researchers find that melting Antarctic ice sheets are slowing the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), the world's strongest ocean current, by around 20% by 2050. This change in ocean properties and circulation patterns has implications for global climate indicators, including sea level rise and marine ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 3, 2025

Hallucinogen use linked to 2.6-fold increase in risk of death for people needing emergency care

A new study found that people seeking emergency care for hallucinogen use were at a 2.6-fold higher risk of death within 5 years compared to the general population. The increased risk was highest among individuals with medical comorbidities and those from low-income neighborhoods.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2025