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Science News for March 7, 2025


Research reveals how and why a redesigned FTC website increased consumer reporting of fraud by 28%

A redesigned Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website has led to a significant increase in consumer reporting of fraud, with complaints jumping by 28%. The new website's improved accessibility and user-friendliness have made it easier for consumers to file complaints, resulting in a greater cross-section of the population participating.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·TypeObservational study·DateMar 7, 2025

USC researchers observe mice may have a form of first aid

Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine discovered that mice display a form of 'first aid' behavior when helping unconscious peers, with actions ranging from gentle grooming to forceful tongue-pulling. This behavior is similar to human emergency responses and may be linked to the activation of oxytocin neuropeptides.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Vanderbilt lung transplant establishes new record

The Vanderbilt Lung Transplant program performed a record-breaking 99 lung transplants in 2024, with two combined organ transplants. The program leads the nation in innovation in organ preservation and regeneration, and has the busiest program in the Southeast.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateMar 7, 2025

University of Tennessee unveils Kairos Power Training Simulator Laboratory

The University of Tennessee has unveiled a new Operator Training Simulator Laboratory in partnership with Kairos Power. The lab will provide hands-on training for reactor operators and serve as a hub for UT students entering the advanced nuclear industry. It features state-of-the-art human-machine interfaces and simulates KP-FHR dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·DateMar 7, 2025
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Metasurface technology offers a compact way to generate multiphoton entanglement

Researchers developed a new approach using metasurfaces to generate multiphoton entanglement, simplifying the process while increasing efficiency. This breakthrough enables the creation of different types of entangled states and facilitates the fusion of multiple pairs into larger groups.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·TypeObservational study·DateMar 7, 2025

Future innovators take over UTA at science fair

The University of Texas at Arlington hosted the 74th Fort Worth Regional Science and Engineering Fair, attracting more students than ever. The fair featured original research projects on various topics, including using earthworms to remove toxic lead from soil and creating a robotic glove for people with Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateMar 7, 2025

Effort seeks to increase cancer-gene testing in primary care

Researchers assess two approaches to test patients' hereditary cancer risks in primary care clinics, finding the point-of-care approach increases completion rates while the direct patient engagement method boosts testing rates among those eligible. The study's goal is to develop ways to improve uptake and reduce barriers to testing.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 7, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

VUMC to develop AI technology for therapeutic antibody discovery

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center aim to use artificial intelligence technologies to generate antibody therapies against specific antigen targets. The project, funded by $30 million from ARPA-H, will create a massive antibody-antigen atlas and develop AI-based algorithms to engineer antigen-specific antibodies.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateMar 7, 2025

Study reveals widening heart disease disparities in the US

A study published in The Lancet Regional Health — Americas highlights growing divide in cardiovascular health in the US, showing that wealth and education play a significant role in heart disease risk. The research reveals that high-income, college-educated Americans face far fewer health risks than the rest of the population.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·DateMar 7, 2025

The role of ubiquitination in cancer stem cell regulation

This review highlights the critical role of ubiquitination in governing cancer stem cell (CSC) functionality, shedding light on potential therapeutic targets. The Ub system regulates key pathways essential for CSC maintenance and survival, particularly through E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateMar 7, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Bringing expansion microscopy to plants

Researchers have developed ExPOSE, a method that allows for the visualization of plant cells with greater resolution, enabling studies on protein and RNA location, and cellular response. The technique uses protoplasts to overcome cell wall challenges, paving the way for a powerful new toolkit in plant biology.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateMar 7, 2025

GIFs helping footballers to sleep better

A recent study by the University of Kent found that short animations known as GIFs can improve the sleep of professional female footballers. The researchers designed bespoke GIF messages with sleep hygiene tips and implemented them across a two-week period, leading to significant improvements in sleep quality, even during mid-season.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalEuropean Journal of Sport Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

LearningEMS: A new framework for electric vehicle energy management

LearningEMS provides a unified platform for various EV configurations, supporting detailed comparisons of multiple algorithms and benchmarks. The study highlights the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches, emphasizing the importance of state, reward, and action settings in RL-based EMS optimization.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalEngineering·DateMar 7, 2025

Stretching spider silk makes it stronger

Researchers discovered that aligning protein chains and increasing hydrogen bonds through stretching make spider silk stronger, tougher, and more elastic. The study aims to design engineered silk-inspired proteins for strong, biodegradable materials like sutures and body armor.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 7, 2025

Sulfur bacteria team up to break down organic substances in the seabed

Researchers discovered that sulfur bacteria from the Desulfobacteraceae family work together like a team to break down diverse organic compounds. By analyzing six strains, they found similar molecular strategies and a highly energy-efficient central metabolism pathway, enabling them to thrive in oxygen-free environments.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2025
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

The unforseen effects of melting glaciers on Arctic coastal ecosystems

Climate change impacts Arctic coastal ecosystems through melting glaciers, altering kelp growth and elemental composition. Kelps are highly susceptible to changes in run-off intensities, leading to increased metal concentrations and negative ecological consequences.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 7, 2025

Effects of electroacupuncture combined with Chinese herbal medicine on gut microbiota and metabolomics in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Researchers investigated the effects of electroacupuncture on gut microbiota and metabolomics in ALS patients, finding a reduction in Eisenbergiella abundance and improvements in Lachnospiraceae levels. The study suggests that this treatment may be beneficial for patients with ALS.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalFuture Integrative Medicine·DateMar 7, 2025

Earth's orbital rhythms link timing of giant eruptions and climate change

Researchers found a synchronization between geological climate archives and large-scale volcanic eruptions in the Deccan Traps, which may have caused mass extinctions. The study suggests that changes in Earth's orbit around the sun regulate the amount of incoming solar radiation, affecting global climate patterns.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 7, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Uncovering dementia’s environmental triggers

A meta-analysis from the University of Georgia's College of Public Health found that factors like air pollution and access to green spaces can significantly raise or lower dementia risk. Living near major roadways was associated with a 10% higher risk, while exposure to fine particulate matter increased risk by 9%.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAgeing Research Reviews·DateMar 7, 2025

Illinois researchers spearhead efforts to establish guidelines for personalized nutrition approaches

Researchers developed guiding principles for personalized nutrition approaches addressing users and beneficiaries, data collection and handling, methodology, and purpose. They also addressed the opportunities and challenges around data and regulatory issues in the field of personalized nutrition.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·DateMar 7, 2025
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

While most Americans strongly support civics education in schools, partisan divide on DEI policies and free speech on college campuses remains

A new USC report reveals that most Americans support civics education in schools, with high levels of bipartisan agreement on issues like teaching about racism and promoting critical thinking. However, sharp partisan divisions persist on issues like diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and student free speech on college campuses.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateMar 7, 2025

Direct exposure to mass shootings among US adults

A survey study found that US adults have regular exposure to mass shootings, which disproportionately affects younger generations and males. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the broader impacts of gun violence on public health and community well-being.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 7, 2025

Angel Martí honored with Robert Holland Jr. Award

Angel Martí, a leading researcher on chemistry and nanostructures, has been awarded the Robert Holland Jr. Award for his groundbreaking work. He is recognized for his contributions to advancing scientific discovery and fostering talent in STEM fields.

SourceRice University·DateMar 7, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Silk-inspired in situ web spinning for situated robots

Researchers at Tartu University have developed a robotics concept that redefines adaptability by weaving its body on demand, like spiders spin their webs. The robot creates custom components in situ using heated polymer solutions, enabling it to operate in complex environments and interact with its surroundings dynamically.

SourceEstonian Research Council·Journalnpj Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2025

Improving school readiness for children with low birth weight

A new study identifies neighborhood amenities, parental mental health, emotional support networks, regular reading routines, and limited screen time as protective factors for improved school readiness. The research highlights the critical role of family routines and parental supports in shaping early child development.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateMar 7, 2025

ITSN1 gene linked to substantial risk of Parkinson’s disease

Researchers discovered genetic variants in ITSN1 significantly increase Parkinson's disease risk, especially among rare mutations. The study highlights ITSN1 as a promising therapeutic target and underscores the value of large-scale genetic sequencing.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

An aerosol test for airborne bird flu

Researchers developed a prototype sensor that detects H5N1 viruses in air samples, detecting the virus at levels below an infectious dose. The sensor produced results within 5 minutes and showed over 90% accuracy compared to traditional methods, offering promise for noninvasive air monitoring.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateMar 7, 2025

Crystal lattice at a distance

Physicists use a new method to create an artificial crystal lattice by applying an electric voltage, allowing them to study the behavior of electrons in semiconductor materials. The technique enables insights into strong interactions and their effects on material properties.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPhysical Review·DateMar 7, 2025

Acoustofluidics-based method facilitates intracellular nanoparticle delivery

Researchers have developed an innovative acoustofluidics-based approach for delivering biomolecular cargos into cells, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. The new method enables controlled contact between cells and nanoparticles, enhancing membrane permeability and improving delivery efficiency.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalEngineering·DateMar 7, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Fluoride in drinking water is associated with impaired childhood cognition

Elevated fluoride concentrations have been shown to impair cognitive abilities in children, particularly verbal reasoning skills and sensory processing. The study suggests that even low levels of exposure can have significant effects, highlighting the need for further research on fluoride health risks.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateMar 7, 2025

Breakthrough cardiac regeneration research offers hope for the treatment of ischemic heart failure

Researchers have discovered a new way to stimulate cardiomyocyte proliferation, offering promising results in both human cardiac slices and live animals. This innovative approach targets calcium signaling pathways, potentially transforming the treatment landscape for patients suffering from heart failure.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2025
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Airlines with more women at the top are more efficient

Research led by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya analyzed 45 airline groups before and after the Covid pandemic, finding that airlines with greater gender diversity on their boards and in executive teams exhibited greater efficiency. Airlines could improve efficiency by 1.9% to 3.2% if they increase female representation to at least 25%.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalJournal of Air Transport Management·DateMar 7, 2025

AI reveals new way to strengthen titanium alloys and speed up manufacturing

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory have discovered a new way to strengthen titanium alloys using AI, enabling faster production and improved mechanical properties. The breakthrough has implications for industries such as shipbuilding, aviation, and medical devices.

SourceJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2025

One in 15 U.S. adults have been on the scene of a mass shooting

A new study reveals that nearly 7% of US adults have been present at the scene of a mass shooting, while over 2% have been injured during one. Younger generations are significantly more likely to have been exposed than their parents or grandparents were.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·TypeSurvey·DateMar 7, 2025
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

UT Health San Antonio develops drug found to more than double survival time for glioblastoma patients

A new drug formulation called Rhenium Obisbemeda has been shown to significantly extend the median survival and progression-free time of glioblastoma patients, with a median overall survival time of 17 months. The treatment, which uses convection-enhanced delivery, shows promise as a potential cure for this deadly brain tumor.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 7, 2025

Researchers create gel that can self-heal like human skin

A team of researchers from Aalto University developed a hydrogel with a unique structure that combines high stiffness with flexibility and self-healing capabilities. The material uses exceptionally large and ultra-thin specific clay nanosheets, allowing it to self-heal via entanglement.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 7, 2025

Suicide, the music industry, and a call to action

A recent study in Frontiers in Public Health documents the prevalence of suicide among musicians, highlighting occupational mortality data from England and US epidemiological data. The research emphasizes the need for evidence-based interventions addressing systemic stressors in music careers.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 7, 2025

Security veins: Advanced biometric authentication through AI and infrared

A new method of biometric authentication has been developed using hyperspectral imaging and AI to identify individuals through the unique patterns in their blood vessels on the palm of their hand. The technology shows great promise for secure personal identification and could potentially be used as a key to unlock homes.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 7, 2025
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.