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Science News for March 31, 2025


“Two-pronged approach” unlocks material secret to cool laser lighting devices Northeastern University researchers slash operating temperatures and boost efficiency in high-power laser systems

Northeastern University researchers develop a new material that cools high-power laser systems while increasing luminous efficiency by 73.2%. The breakthrough enables practical, high-performance laser lighting technologies with improved thermal stability.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMar 31, 2025

New cases of dementia picked up by researchers

Researchers in New Zealand are shedding light on the prevalence of dementia in multicultural communities, revealing up to half of those affected are unaware they have the condition. Early diagnosis can be life-changing, providing access to social support and improving quality of life for both individuals and caregivers.

How nostalgic music helps minds remember

A new study from USC Dornsife's Brain and Creativity Institute found that nostalgic music engages the brain's default mode network linked to memory and self-reflection, as well as its reward circuitry. This discovery could support emotional well-being and cognitive function in individuals with memory impairments.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 31, 2025

New live-cell labeling sheds light on how our DNA is packed and behaves in cells

Researchers developed a method to visualize different types of chromatin and revealed distinct physical properties. They found that euchromatin is more flexible and dynamic, while heterochromatin is more rigid and static. This discovery changes how scientists think about chromatin and its role in regulating gene function.

Why our reasons for pursuing goals either help or hinder wellbeing

A new study by Edith Cowan University found that people who pursue goals for reasons connected to relationships experience greater happiness and wellbeing, while those driven by external pressures report lower levels. The study also suggests that personally autonomous motivation is generally associated with personal wellbeing.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalJournal of Cross-Cultural Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025

Semen podocarpi extract enhances radiosensitivity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells via Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway

The study found that Semen podocarpi extract (SPE) promotes apoptosis, arrests cell cycle, and presents radiosensitizing effects on radioresistant nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells. SPE regulates the Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway, increasing C-Raf gene expression and reducing ERK1 and ERK2 protein levels.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalAsian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

AI breakthrough in knee surgery

Researchers developed an AI algorithm to help surgeons position knee components in a way that better matches each patient's natural anatomy. Patients with naturally bowed legs responded well to the 'functionally aligned' knee surgery, reporting better outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalThe Journal of Arthroplasty·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2025

Trigonelline exerts its neuroprotective effects in experimental spinal cord injury through modulation of inflammation, apoptosis, and neurotrophic factors

Trigonelline effectively mitigates SCI-induced changes in behavioral tests, biochemical markers, and histological damage in rat models. The compound downregulates apoptotic and inflammatory markers while upregulating neurotrophic factors.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalAsian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

Many TB cases may have gone undetected in prisons in Europe and the Americas during COVID-19

A new study found that reported tuberculosis diagnoses among incarcerated people in Europe and the Americas plummeted by up to 100% during the pandemic, despite consistent incarceration rates. This reduction was distinct from general population trends, highlighting the need for improved healthcare systems within prisons.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2025

Artificial neural network (ANN) systems performed better at predicting future frames of a movie when trained on retinal waves mimicking the spontaneous activity patterns of the retina in animals' eyes, in addition to training on naturalistic movies

Artificial neural networks trained on spontaneous retinal activity patterns show improved motion prediction in natural scenes. The approach also enhances performance when combined with naturalistic movie data.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 31, 2025

A new clue to how multicellular life may have evolved

Researchers explore fluid dynamics of stentors' cooperative feeding behavior, discovering that grouping together generates more powerful flows to sweep in food from a greater distance. This finding could provide insight into how single-cell organisms evolved into complex organisms like humans.

SourceEmory University·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2025

ED nurses report radio silence when it comes to guidance for care of pregnant patients in states with abortion bans

Nurses in states with abortion bans face communication gaps and moral distress when providing care to pregnant patients. They resort to 'work-arounds' like reading the room for allies or using online resources to find legal reproductive health care, highlighting the need for better guidance and support.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJONA The Journal of Nursing Administration·TypeSurvey·DateMar 31, 2025

New study validates lower limits of human heat tolerance

A new study from the University of Ottawa's Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit has validated lower limits of human heat tolerance, highlighting the urgent need to address climate change impacts on human health. The research found that many regions may soon experience conditions exceeding safe limits for human survival.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 31, 2025

A quantum superhighway for ultrafast NOON states

Researchers at University of Liège have developed a method for rapidly creating NOON states with ultra-cold atoms, accelerating the process by a factor of 10,000 while maintaining high fidelity. This breakthrough opens up prospects in quantum metrology and quantum information technologies.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalPhysical Review A·DateMar 31, 2025

Patient navigators improve colonoscopy rates after abnormal stool tests, study shows

A study found that patient navigators significantly improved one-year follow-up colonoscopy completion rates by 12% and reduced time to follow-up by 27 days. The researchers emphasize the importance of timely follow-up colonoscopies for patients with abnormal stool test results.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 2025

Incidences of urban U.S. hate crime declined slightly in 2024, but anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim crimes continued to rise

Police reports of hate crimes in 42 major US cities declined 2.7% in 2024, with anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim hate crimes rising 12% and 18%, respectively. Anti-Jewish hate crimes reached record levels in several cities, while anti-Asian hate crimes fell more than 14%. The upward trend is attributed to the timing of the Israel-Gaza war.

Program that aims to reduce cyclical, retaliatory gun violence saw shootings decline after prevention program in Lansing, MI

A new report by Michigan State University and Michigan Public Health Institute found that shootings in Lansing fell after the implementation of a prevention program, with some variations between years and communities. The Advance Peace Lansing program employs fellows to engage with individuals affected by gun violence.

Association for Molecular Pathology celebrates U.S. District Court’s decision to vacate FDA rule on laboratory-developed test procedure regulation

The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) has won a court ruling that vacates the FDA's rule on laboratory-developed test procedure regulation. This decision will avoid adding billions of dollars in healthcare costs and protect access to high-quality care for hundreds of millions of Americans.

4:3 Intermittent fasting shows modestly greater weight loss than daily caloric restriction

A randomized clinical trial found that 4:3 intermittent fasting resulted in modestly greater weight loss over 12 months compared to daily caloric restriction. The study showed improved cardiometabolic outcomes, including lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, suggesting that fasting may be a more effective approach for weight loss.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMar 31, 2025

New study links lower proportions of certain sleep stages to brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease

A recent study found that individuals with reduced slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep had smaller volumes in critical brain regions, particularly the inferior parietal region. This association suggests a potential link between sleep deficiency and brain atrophy, which may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025

Ultrafast laser alloying enables sub-5 nm Ru-based catalysts for efficient hydrogen evolution

Researchers have developed a method for synthesizing carbon nanotube-supported intermetallic RuM alloys with sub-5 nm nanoparticles using ultrafast laser confined alloying. These alloys exhibit excellent electrochemical catalytic activity and robustness, outperforming commercial benchmarks and existing catalysts.

PTSD can undermine healthy couple communication when people fear their emotions

A new study found that people with PTSD symptoms experience greater fear of their emotions, which is associated with less constructive communication and more unproductive communication in romantic relationships. This fear can lead to a vicious cycle where behavior triggered by PTSD symptoms strain relationships, maintaining PTSD symptoms.

SourcePenn State·JournalBehaviour Research and Therapy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2025

Common anticancer drugs may offer new hope to PTEN Hamartoma Tumour Syndrome patients

Researchers have discovered that common anticancer drugs can reduce vascular growth in patients with PTEN Hamartoma Tumour Syndrome, offering new hope for treatment. These findings were made possible by the development of a mouse model and clinical trials using rapamycin and capivasertib inhibitors.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

COVID-19 boosters help avoid breakthrough infections in immunocompromised people, McGill-led study finds

A new study by researchers at McGill University found that annual COVID-19 vaccine booster doses help avoid breakthrough infections in people with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. The study tracked 366 patients across Canada and used saliva PCR tests and antibody measurements, offering a more precise picture of infection risks.

SourceMcGill University·JournalVaccine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025

Cannabis use disorder among insured pregnant women in the US between 2015-2020

Between 2015-2020, 893,430 pregnant women were identified with a cannabis use disorder diagnosis, resulting in 1,058,448 total pregnancies. The cumulative prevalence of CUD diagnosis was 0.26%. Clinicians are well-positioned to intervene but may lack structural support due to fear of legal repercussions and underestimated diagnoses.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 31, 2025

The hidden superconducting state in NbSe₂: shedding layers, gaining insights

In extremely thin films of niobium diselenide (NbSe₂), superconductivity becomes confined to the surface when thinner than six atomic layers. This discovery challenges previous theories and could have important implications for understanding superconductivity and developing advanced quantum technologies.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

Stereoisomeric engineering for critical balance of solvation and adsorption capability

Researchers have developed a new approach to optimize the performance of aqueous zinc-ion batteries by designing electrolyte additives with stereoisomeric structures. The study found that certain additives exhibit stronger adsorption capacities and can promote uniform charge distribution, leading to improved battery lifespan.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·DateMar 31, 2025

Smarter tech identifies tiny plastic invaders for a cleaner world of microplastics by neural networks and Raman spectroscopy

A research team developed an improved residual neural network model to accurately classify and identify microplastics in low-quality Raman spectra, even under non-ideal experimental conditions. The model achieves higher accuracy without significantly increasing computational load.

New study challenges the story of humanity’s shift from prehistoric hunting to farming

A new mathematical model reveals that humans played an active role in the transition from hunting and gathering to farming, driven by factors like population growth rates and competition. The study challenges traditional views that focused on environmental factors, providing fresh insight into the rise of farming.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 31, 2025

Chance discovery improves stability of bioelectronic material used in medical implants, computing and biosensors

A team of scientists discovered a method to produce a stable and conductive bioelectric material without the need for a chemical crosslinker. The new process uses high heat to stabilize the material, producing devices with three times higher electrical conductivity and more consistent stability.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

“She loves me, she loves me not”: physical forces encouraged evolution of multicellular life, scientists propose

A study from the Marine Biological Laboratory proposes that physical forces, such as fluid dynamics, played a key role in the evolution of multicellular life. The researchers found that cooperative feeding among Stentor cells increased the flow rate of water into their mouths, allowing them to capture more prey. However, the benefits o...

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

Brain-to-voice neuroprosthesis restores naturalistic speech

Researchers from UC Berkeley and UCSF developed a streaming method that synthesizes brain signals into audible speech in near-real time, solving the latency challenge. The technology represents a critical step toward enabling communication for people who have lost the ability to speak, with high decoding accuracy and naturalistic fluency.

SourceUniversity of California Berkeley College of Engineering·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2025

ICT technologies in the US contaminate rather than clean an already polluted planet, researchers say

Researchers say ICT adoption and fiscal decentralization increase CO2 emissions, contradicting the widely-held view that ICT can play a pivotal role in addressing environmental challenges. The study suggests policies like incentivizing energy-efficient data centers and transitioning to renewable energy sources can mitigate the environm...

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalEnvironmental Sciences Europe·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2025

Psychedelics and sex: New research explores perceived impacts on sexuality and intimacy

A recent study published in the Journal of Sex Research found that psychedelic experiences can enhance participants' perceptions of their relationship quality, attraction to their current partner, and sexual activities. Additionally, approximately 10% of participants reported influences on their gender identity and expression.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·TypeSurvey·DateMar 31, 2025

Brian Brown, Ph.D., inducted into AIMBE College of Fellows for pioneering contributions in gene therapy and functional genomics

Dr. Brian Brown is recognized for his groundbreaking work in gene therapy and functional genomics, which has helped transform the fields and contributed to key advancements in medicine and biotechnology. His innovations have been broadly used across biomedical fields, including cancer, immunology, and genetic disease research.

UT Health San Antonio neurologists among first to treat patients with deep brain stimulation that adapts to patients’ symptoms

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio are among the first to use adaptive deep brain stimulation technology that adjusts treatment based on a patient's symptoms. This innovative approach offers improved therapy and symptom optimization for patients with Parkinson's disease, dystonia, epilepsy, and essential tremor conditions.

My robot therapist: The ethics of AI mental health chatbots for kids

Experts argue that AI mental health chatbots for kids may impair social development and worsen existing health inequities. Pediatric therapists rely on family relationships to ensure child safety, but AI chatbots lack this contextual information. The authors advocate for careful consideration of data representation and potential misuse.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2025

From forces to bone: General formula unravelling the role of mechanical cues in bone remodelling

Researchers propose a general formula modeling bone adaptation as a function of key loading parameters. The formula provides insights into the relationship between mechanical signals and adaptive bone responses, offering guidance for optimizing exercise regimens and designing medical devices to promote bone health.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalMechanobiology in Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMar 31, 2025

The use of TikTok and Instagram has a greater impact on girls’ psychological well-being during adolescence, according to a study by UPF and the UOC

A study by UPF and UOC found that girls who use Instagram and TikTok have a more negative perception of the impact on their psychological well-being than boys. Girls tend to feel more observed and pressured by their outward image and require more external positive feedback.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalRevista de Comunicación·TypeSurvey·DateMar 31, 2025

Nutrition security beyond food access: Understanding the impact of environmental and psychosocial factors on diet quality

Researchers identified key constructs shaping diet and health outcomes, including access to healthy foods, social dynamics, and coping mechanisms. The study highlights the importance of addressing barriers such as affordability, accessibility, and chronic stress to promote nutrition security and health outcomes.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 31, 2025

Joint consensus highlights the role of bone turnover markers in osteoporosis diagnosis and management

A new consensus paper emphasizes the role of bone turnover markers (BTMs) in diagnosing and managing osteoporosis. BTMs, such as procollagen type I N propeptide (PINP) and β-isomerized C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (β-CTX-I), are invaluable tools for predicting fracture risk and monitoring treatment adherence.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 31, 2025

Study shows groundwater gains in Arizona yet climate risks still threaten water supply

A study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and collaborators in Arizona and Colorado found notable groundwater gains in Central Arizona despite long-term water stress. The policies have helped bank over 25 cubic kilometers of groundwater from 1989-2019, but the Colorado River faces uncertain future due to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateMar 31, 2025

A digital twin of the heart helps to improve the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias

A new method combines ECGI with digital twins to locate the origin of premature ventricular contractions, improving accuracy by an average of 7.8 mm. The method has been applied in a real clinical case and is expected to facilitate planning interventions and reduce treatment costs.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 2025

Trade tariffs on Canadian pharmaceuticals expected to increase costs in the U.S. and strain drug supply chains

New research from the University of Toronto warns that applying trade tariffs on Canadian pharmaceuticals could add $750 million in cost to the U.S. market and disrupt drug supply chains. The study highlights the potential for shortages and jeopardizes patient care, particularly for medications with no alternative supplier.

SourceUniversity of Toronto - Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2025

A neural compass for fear: Mapping how the brain distinguishes between direct and vicarious fear

A research team has uncovered a fundamental brain circuit that distinguishes between direct and vicarious fear, with the locus coeruleus playing a crucial role in processing fear. The study reveals a lateralized LC-NAergic system that separates personal from socially learned fear, shedding light on empathy and social learning.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

Long-term practice of Transcendental Meditation may reduce both stress and aging

Research at Maharishi International University found that long-term TM practitioners have lower inflammation, slower age-related decline in cognitive function, and reduced cortisol levels, indicating potential benefits for overall health and longevity. The study suggests a protective effect against both stress and aging.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalBiomolecules·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025

A 3D bone marrow analog reveals the role of trabecular volume in MSC mechanoresponse and bone loss during aging and microgravity

Aging individuals experience bone loss despite physical activity, highlighting the importance of MSCs in regulating bone mechanoresponse. The new 3D bone marrow analog reveals that trabecular volume affects MSC response to mechanical signals, with higher strains associated with older densities and increased F-actin production

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalMechanobiology in Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMar 31, 2025

Gene therapy reverses symptoms of rare neurological disease in animal models

A recent study demonstrates gene therapy's potential to restore motor capacity in an ultra-rare disease, Megalencephalic Leukoencephalopathy with Subcortical Cysts (MLC), even after symptom onset. The treatment restored normal protein activity, normalizing physiological brain alterations and reversing motor impairments in treated mice.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalMolecular Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

Social factors help explain worse cardiovascular health among adults in rural vs. urban communities

A recent NIH-funded study found that rural adults experience higher rates of heart disease and its risk factors compared to urban counterparts. The study revealed that variables such as poverty, education, and access to healthcare do not explain these differences, with lifestyle risk factors like smoking also playing a lesser role.

HKUST researchers set to transform food production with AI-enhanced 3D food printing solution

Researchers at HKUST have developed an AI-assisted 3D food printing solution that combines printing with infrared cooking to produce safer and more visually appealing food. The system uses graphene heaters to precisely control the cooking process, ensuring shape retention and quality.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

One hour’s screen use after going to bed increases your risk of insomnia by 59%, scientists find

A study of 45,202 Norwegian young adults found that using a screen in bed increases the risk of insomnia by 59% and cuts sleep time by 24 minutes. The type of screen activity used does not appear to matter as much as overall screen use in bed, with social media being no more disruptive than other activities.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025

Getting cancer to unmask itself

Researchers from Prof. Yardena Samuels's lab developed a new approach to cancer treatment by manipulating cancer cells to produce dozens of suspicious proteins, leading to a powerful immune response that destroys human cancer cells and slows tumor growth in mouse models.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCancer Cell·DateMar 31, 2025

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation could overcome the poor prognosis of DNMT3AmutNPM1mutFLT3-ITDmut in acute myeloid leukemia: real-world multicenter analysis in China

A real-world multicenter analysis in China found that allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation significantly improved clinical outcomes for patients with triple-mutated acute myeloid leukemia. The procedure reduced relapse rates and increased survival probabilities, with most patients achieving complete remission before treat...

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

Thinner Arctic sea ice may affect the AMOC

Researchers warn that thinner Arctic sea ice may lead to a tipping point in the AMOC, weakening global ocean circulation and impacting climate in Scandinavia. The Beaufort Gyre, an important feature of the Arctic Ocean, is currently losing large amounts of sea ice due to warmer temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Oceans·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2025

Oldest known phosphatic stromatoporoid sponge discovered in south China

The discovery of Lophiostroma leizunia extends the fossil record of stromatoporoid reefs by 20 million years and sheds light on early biomineralization strategies. This ancient sponge, dated to approximately 480 million years ago, was found in Yuan'an, Yichang, South China, and is unique for constructing its skeleton using fluorapatite.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 31, 2025

USC Stem Cell mouse study identifies shared genes involved in hearing and vision regeneration

A USC Stem Cell mouse study has identified shared genes involved in regenerating cells in the ear and eye, which could lead to new treatments for hearing and vision loss. The researchers discovered that inhibiting a specific protein, p27Kip1, can encourage regeneration in both organs.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025

Boehringer Ingelheim and Lieber Institute for Brain Development advance development of COMT inhibitors to treat cognitive impairment in neuropsychiatric disorders

Researchers are developing centrally acting catechol Omethyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors to treat cognitive impairment in certain neuropsychiatric disorders. The Lieber Institute's collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim is exploring novel treatments for these impairments, which affect millions of people worldwide.

New flexible nanofiber material combines strong microwave absorption with exceptional thermal insulation

Researchers developed a novel ZrO₂/ZrB₂/C nanofiber felt with ultralow thermal conductivity and exceptional electromagnetic wave absorption properties. The material achieved a maximum reflection loss of -54 dB and broad absorption bandwidth of 3.1 GHz, demonstrating excellent microwave absorption capabilities.

Extensive mapping of genes behind cardiovascular disease

Swedish researchers have identified 20 genetic variants associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, a leading cause of cardiovascular disease. The study used advanced imaging techniques to examine millions of genetic variants, providing new insights into the disease process and potential ways to prevent it.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025