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Science News for March 25, 2026


Bioluminescent bacterial partner essential for squid development

A recent study found that Vibrio fischeri bacteria are essential for the healthy development of Hawaiian bobtail squid. The bacteria produce a protein called SypC, which prompts the development of the squid's light-organ. Without SypC, developmental disruptions occur, highlighting the crucial communication between bacteria and host.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Smarter maps reveal four decades of change

A new long-term land cover dataset for China covers 1985 to 2022 and provides annual 30-meter maps. The dataset outperforms existing products, achieving high accuracy nationwide and in regional tests. It reveals major shifts in impervious surfaces, water bodies, forests, cropland, and grassland across China.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateMar 25, 2026

Eu2+-actived oxyfluoride glass with highly efficient blue-cyan luminescence for X-ray imaging and white LED applications

Researchers at Zhejiang Normal University developed a new Eu2+-doped glass with excellent X-ray excited luminescence (XEL) and efficient blue-cyan photoluminescence. The glass achieves record-breaking XEL intensity, high transmittance, and excellent radiation stability, making it suitable for X-ray imaging and white LED applications.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMar 25, 2026

No delta left behind? Study finds that most deltas can adapt to rising seas... for now

A global assessment of 800 deltas reveals that nearly all can adapt to sea-level rise using existing technology and space. However, large and densely populated deltas face greater challenges, while smaller deltas have more flexibility with low-resource measures. Collaboration and innovation may expand adaptation opportunities.

SourceUtrecht University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 25, 2026

Reading the mud: Central Asia's rivers hold a hidden timeline of human pollution

Researchers from Beijing Normal University decode historical chemical footprint in Mongolia's Orkhon River Basin to track toxic emissions drivers. The study reveals a link between economic booms and traffic jams and chemical fallout, providing insights for rewriting water management policies across Central Asia.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalCarbon Research·TypeObservational study·DateMar 25, 2026

Answering an urgent need

The Linda and Mike Mussallem Foundation has donated to USC's Keck School of Medicine to enhance clinical trials for individuals with Down syndrome at risk for Alzheimer's. This will increase domestic and international sites, accelerating the development of treatments specifically for this population.

Air‑breakdown triboelectric nanogenerator inspired by transistor architecture for low‑force human–machine interfaces

Researchers developed an AB-TENG with a transistor-inspired architecture to transform physical limitations into functional advantages, advancing skin-electricity-enhanced thin-film TENGs. This breakthrough design establishes a new paradigm for next-generation self-sustaining HMI and IoT devices.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMar 25, 2026

Pork bones to the rescue: Healing arsenic-poisoned rice paddies with engineered char

Researchers discover that adding micro- and nano-scale bone char triggers a biological revival in arsenic-contaminated rice paddies, increasing urease and catalase activity and organic carbon levels. The biochar fundamentally alters soil microbiome behavior, reinforcing natural detoxification capacity by shifting microbial gene abundance.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalCarbon Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Researchers develop "self-transforming" catalyst to redefine CO₂ hydrogenation

A collaborative research team has developed a gas-induced structure evolution strategy to create a 'self-transforming' catalyst that selectively converts CO2 into carbon monoxide. The catalyst achieves a targeted shift in product selectivity, increasing the CO/CH4 ratio and enhancing CO selectivity.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 25, 2026

Simple antiseptic can reduce newborn infections

A Cochrane review found that chlorhexidine application to umbilical cord stumps likely reduces infections by 29% and may lower mortality rates, particularly in LMICs. Umbilical cord care is crucial for preventing infection and promoting healthy healing.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 25, 2026

Scientists discover quantum interference observed within single reaction path

A research team has revealed quantum interference between direct and indirect reaction pathways in the photodissociation of partially deuterated water, demonstrating that interference can occur even within a single reaction path. This finding suggests a new route to control nonadiabatic dynamics in chemical reactions.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 25, 2026

Researchers develop high-performance catalyst for CO2-to-formate conversion

Scientists have developed a novel catalyst that enables efficient conversion of CO2 into formate, which is widely used across industries. The catalyst, comprising Co atoms confined within the MoS2 lattice, shows superior catalytic activity and selectivity compared to traditional materials.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 25, 2026

Engineered biochar with minerals could unlock new solutions for soil health and water cleanup

Researchers combine biochar with naturally occurring minerals to create more durable and effective materials for improving soil fertility, capturing contaminants, and delivering nutrients. Engineered composites show promising potential for agricultural and pollution control applications.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 25, 2026

Food Fortification prevents 7 billion nutrient gaps annually—but could triple its impact, landmark study finds

A landmark study found that food fortification prevents approximately 7 billion nutrient gaps annually at a cost of just 18 cents per person. However, the study identified three priority actions to dramatically expand food fortification programs, including improving compliance and expanding coverage in high-need regions.

SourceGlobal Alliance for Improved Nutrition·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 25, 2026

New synthetic parts for an old DNA tool

Researchers at Rice University have developed a synthetic origin of replication for plasmids, allowing for precise control over copy numbers and eliminating incompatibility issues. This innovation enables scientists to modify plasmids instead of workarounds, simplifying experimental workflows and expanding possibilities.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Center for BrainHealth forms groundbreaking research collaborative to enable data sharing, accelerate discovery

The BrainHealth Network connects researchers across the country to understand brain health improvement through advanced MRI imaging and data analysis. The network leverages a comprehensive multimodal brain imaging dataset, including a longitudinal study of 100,000 healthy participants over 10 years.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 25, 2026

Chemistry, regioselective and stereoselective electrochemical dearomatization-multifunctionalization reactions of pyridine

A research team successfully developed an electrochemically mediated dearomatization saturation strategy for pyridine, resulting in efficient multifunctional modification of the molecule. The strategy achieves chemo, regio, and stereoselective transformation of pyridine into complex piperidine skeletons.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Why gastric immunotherapy works differently

A recent review highlights differences in gastric cancer immunotherapy outcomes among various populations, particularly between Asian and non-Asian patients. The study suggests that treatment responses may be influenced by factors such as tumor biology, host immunity, infection, and environmental exposures.

SourceChina Anti-Cancer Association·JournalCancer Biology & Medicine·DateMar 25, 2026

Radiotherapy rather than surgery may help reduce risk of lymphoedema in patients with breast cancer: results from pilot study

A pilot study found that axillary radiotherapy may be as effective as surgery in killing cancer cells while reducing the risk of painful swelling. The trial compared radiotherapy to axillary lymph node dissection and found similar cancer outcomes, but lower rates of lymphoedema after radiotherapy.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 25, 2026

Using new anti-obesity drugs in prevention of obesity-related cancers – global panel of experts suggest 10-year trial with 5,000 participants with cancer pre-cursor condition to establish efficacy

A global panel of experts recommends a 10-year trial with 5,000 participants at high risk of cancer due to pre-cursor conditions. The trial will evaluate the potential efficacy of GLP-1 and dual receptor agonists in preventing obesity-related cancers.

Elinzanetant reduces severity and frequency of hot flushes and night sweats, regardless of type of hormone treatment breast cancer patients receive

A new analysis shows elinzanetant effectively relieves moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS) associated with endocrine therapy, regardless of the type of hormone treatment. The drug reduces VMS frequency and severity by blocking a protein that triggers these symptoms.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 25, 2026

KAIST professor Jinjoon Lee’s 10-meter Hanji Scroll PhD thesis from Oxford Enters the permanent collection of the world’s oldest museum, first work by a contemporary Korean artist

Professor Lee's doctoral thesis Empty Garden reinterprets uiwon through contemporary data and media language, exploring human sensation and existence in an AI-dominated environment. The work has been acquired by the Ashmolean Museum for its permanent collection, marking a rare distinction even within Oxford's 900-year history.

Scientists call out health-harming corporations driving rise in chronic disease

A new paper by the University of Sydney reveals that corporations manufacturing and marketing health-harming products are primary vectors of non-communicable disease. The authors propose solutions such as policy safeguards, stronger research focus, and prohibition on financial ties between industry and researchers.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 25, 2026

RNA-guided CRISPR system activates gene expression

Researchers have discovered an RNA-guided CRISPR system that can activate genes without cutting DNA, opening up new possibilities for gene regulation and therapeutic strategies. The system uses a strand of RNA as a guide to recruit the cell's transcription machinery, allowing for precise control over gene expression.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature·DateMar 25, 2026

Landmark Alliance ATOMIC Trial establishes new standard of care for patients with stage III dMMR colon cancer

The phase III Alliance ATOMIC trial shows that adding immunotherapy to standard chemotherapy improves clinical outcomes for patients with stage III dMMR colon cancer. The study found a 50% reduction in cancer recurrence risk and a 86.3% disease-free survival rate at three years.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 25, 2026

Plasma and lemon juice: Milder method retrieves nearly 95% of critical minerals in battery waste

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method to recover nearly all critical minerals from spent lithium-ion batteries, including metals like lithium and graphite. The process uses microwave-induced plasma treatment with room-temperature solvents, resulting in high recovery rates and minimal environmental impact.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Ancient alphabets, new insights: Researchers uncover hidden links among the letters

Researchers from SDSU discovered surprising similarities among ancient writing systems from Africa and the Caucasus region. The study suggests the Armenian alphabet may be more closely related to the ancient Ethiopic writing system than previously thought, revealing possible cultural contact and influence between regions.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalDigital Scholarship in the Humanities·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 25, 2026

Global initiative to address mounting pressures from illegal and unsustainable taking of migratory species announced at UN wildlife conference

The Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species (GTI) aims to tackle the root causes of illegal and unsustainable taking, safeguarding wildlife and livelihoods. The initiative focuses on improving data, strengthening laws, engaging communities, and raising awareness.

Living in historically redlined neighborhoods may reduce one’s ability to conceive

Two studies led by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that people living in redlined neighborhoods were less likely to conceive than those in favorable areas. The findings suggest that historical practices like redlining continue to influence reproductive health disparities in present-day communities of color.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 25, 2026

Oyster reefs off the US Atlantic coast remove more nitrogen and provide greater economic value than previously estimated, and their restoration may be effective in maintaining water quality and improving marine ecosystems

Restored oyster reefs in the US Atlantic coast remove more nitrogen from the water than previously estimated. Additionally, their restoration provides greater economic value for coastal communities, supporting sustainable marine ecosystems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·DateMar 25, 2026

Significant grade inflation may be occurring in graduate education

Analysis of 40,516 students across 75 master's and 78 doctoral programs reveals grade inflation in both fields, stronger in master's programs, and influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic. The study's findings have implications for employment, admissions, and merit-based funding decisions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMar 25, 2026

From angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor exposure to a pragmatic pharmacist-led deprescribing intervention, & validating measures between the electronic health record and Medicare Claims, geriatrics research is shaping the future of care

Researchers explore pragmatic pharmacist-led deprescribing interventions, including ALIGN, to improve medication management in older adults with cognitive impairment. Validation of hospitalization, death, and hospice care data from skilled nursing facility EHRs and Medicare claims shows promise for improved care coordination.

Douglas P. Kiel, MD, MPH, elected to the Association of American Physicians

Douglas P. Kiel, a senior scientist at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, has been elected to membership in the Association of American Physicians due to his significant contributions to advancing medical knowledge and improving health through scientific research and academic leadership. His research focuses on o...

New medicine piggybacks onto fat absorption pathways to allow oral delivery and support clinical trial in major depressive disorder

A new approach allows oral delivery of drugs previously requiring injection by piggybacking on natural fat absorption pathways. The medication, GlyphAllo, bypasses the liver's security checkpoint and is absorbed through the gut's lymphatic system, allowing it to enter the bloodstream directly.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 25, 2026

Chimpanzees can be multitalented musicians

Researchers at Kyoto University's EHUB center analyzed the musical performances of a 26-year-old male chimpanzee named Ayumu. The study found that Ayumu's instrumental sound-making was not random and exhibited isochronous intervals, similar to a metronome.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 25, 2026

Fiber in whole wheat foods protects against gut inflammation in mice, study finds

Researchers found that metabolism of wheat fiber by intestinal bacteria generated bioactive anti-inflammatory metabolites, including polyphenols, which reprogrammed intestinal immune cells to suppress inflammation. The study suggests eating whole wheat foods may reduce one’s risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

SKKU professor Tae-Youn Park, “Does Pay Transparency Reduce Wage Inequality?” (HBR)

A study by SKKU professor Tae-Youn Park found that wider posted pay ranges are associated with a lower proportion of female applicants due to increased uncertainty. This can lead to persistent long-term wage gaps as female applicants have lower expectations for salary increases and request less in initial salaries.

SourceSungkyunkwan University External Affairs Division (PR team)·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMar 25, 2026

HKUST researchers develop pioneering organocatalytic strategy for chiral sulfinamides with antiviral potential

The team developed an air-stable chiral phosphine-catalyzed approach to synthesize enantioenriched S(IV)-stereogenic vinyl sulfinamides, a promising class of antiviral compounds. These compounds exhibit potent binding activity against the mutant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and HIV-1 ENV protein.

Is tourism the most undervalued skills training ground in the economy? Hospitality work builds over 100 transferable skills, challenging the sector’s ‘low-skilled’ reputation

Research from the University of Surrey found that tourism and hospitality workers develop over 100 transferable skills, including empathy, problem-solving, and communication. These skills are in demand across various sectors of the economy and have been adopted by European policy.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAnnals of Tourism Research·DateMar 25, 2026

New study finds common blood pressure drug boosts cancer treatment

A new study found that the common blood pressure medication telmisartan can significantly enhance the cancer-killing activity of olaparib, potentially expanding its use to many more patients. Telmisartan made tumors more vulnerable to PARP inhibitors, even when they lacked specific DNA repair defects.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

New discovery on brain metastasis reveals how tumors hijack immune cells to use them to their advantage

A recent study has revealed that brain tumors use a protein called MIF to reprogram immune cells, such as macrophages and microglia, to drive tumor growth. The researchers have identified a drug, ibudilast, which can block this process, slowing metastasis in animal models and fresh patient samples.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Young people’s critical capacity regarding digital advertising reproduces social inequalities

A recent study by Pompeu Fabra University reveals that socioeconomic conditions significantly impact young people's ability to detect algorithmically personalized advertising. The study finds that lower socioeconomic status is linked to decreased critical capacity, exacerbating structural inequalities.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalTechnology in Society·TypeSurvey·DateMar 25, 2026

Cognito Therapeutics and Ochsner Health launch Brain Health Collaboratory to advance new care models for Alzheimer’s disease

The Brain Health Collaboratory aims to accelerate the discovery, validation, and delivery of non-invasive neuroprotective therapies for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Cognito Therapeutics' Spectris technology platform will be combined with Ochsner's clinical network to explore new approaches to brain health care delivery.

Researchers decode the complete genome of the fungus responsible for Cercospora leaf spot in olive trees

Researchers sequenced the complete genome of Pseudocercospora cladosporioides, identifying key genes involved in degrading the olive tree's cell wall and inhibiting its resistance mechanisms. This breakthrough will aid in breeding resistant varieties and understanding fungus-olive tree interactions.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalPlant Pathology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 25, 2026

If the Laschamps geomagnetic excursion happened today, aviation radiation exposure would be radically altered – with “shielded pockets” in the north

Researchers modelled the structure of the magnetic field and cosmic radiation throughout the Laschamps excursion. The results show that cosmic radiation penetrated the atmosphere at record levels, with regions where it could freely enter irradiating a major fraction of the Earth's atmosphere.

Researchers develop high-performance dual-crystal-phase cathode for next-generation aqueous zinc-ion batteries

A novel dual-crystal-phase manganese dioxide (MnO₂) cathode has been developed to improve the performance and stability of aqueous zinc-ion batteries. The cathode offers high capacity, rapid charging capabilities, and exceptional longevity due to its unique interface between two different crystal structures.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalENGINEERING Energy·TypeNews article·DateMar 25, 2026

University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers create revolutionary database to map neocortical development across species

Researchers created a pioneering database to map neocortical development across species using multiomic data from 188 studies. They discovered that humans take longer than mice to reach full molecular maturity, and gene regulation plays a key role in brain disorders.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Exergames could improve mood in older adults

A systematic review of experimental studies found exergames to be associated with better mood outcomes, including reductions in tension and depressive symptoms. The evidence base remains small and heterogeneous, but the study calls for longer-term interventions and larger samples to determine the durability of benefits.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 25, 2026

Extreme global climate outcomes are possible even at 2°C of warming

A new study by UFZ researchers warns that extreme global climate outcomes are possible even at moderate levels of global warming, such as 2°C. Sector-specific drivers like precipitation extremes and droughts can lead to severe impacts in vulnerable regions. The study highlights the need for ambitious climate mitigation measures to limi...

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 25, 2026

Bidirectionally enhanced reaction kinetics in vanadium redox flow battery via regulating mixed‑valence states in perovskite electrodes

This study introduces a breakthrough approach to regulate mixed-valence states in perovskite electrodes for VRFB, offering valuable insights into high-performance metal-based electrocatalysts. The findings highlight the importance of interdisciplinary research in materials science and electrochemistry.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMar 25, 2026

The brain’s ability to grasp the “gist” of a visual scene begins earlier than expected

A research team led by LEE Doyun and KIM Yee-Joon found that the primary visual cortex encodes motion summaries and variability before higher brain regions transform them into category signals. This process, known as ensemble perception, allows the brain to capture the overall structure of a scene at a glance.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Why do seals whisk their whiskers?

Seal whiskers are highly sensitive, but the benefit of active whisking was unclear until new research revealed that it improves sensing. Seals keep their whiskers pulled back and actively move them to detect subtle water vibrations.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·Journalnpj Flexible Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Prospective evidence on AI−assisted melanoma diagnostics

AI systems demonstrate comparable diagnostic accuracy to dermatologists for melanoma detection, potentially enhancing performance when used as a decision-support tool. However, the risk of bias and limited generalizability of current studies highlight the need for broader validation in unselected patient populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateMar 25, 2026

Dr. Y. Michael Shim named Chief of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center

Dr. Y. Michael Shim has been named chief of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, expanding access to comprehensive care for patients with chronic lung conditions. He will lead research and education efforts, including developing innovative imaging technologies to better understand lung disease.

Surgeons sponsored for H-1B visas in the US

The number of US surgeons sponsored for H-1B visas increased to over 650 in FY2024, with a disproportionate representation in rural and impoverished counties. This trend highlights the need for increased diversity and inclusion in the surgical workforce.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 25, 2026

Elder abuse under-recognized in hospital data

A recent study found that only a small proportion of elder abuse cases are being officially recorded in hospitals, highlighting a potential reporting gap in Australia's health system. The research analyzed data from nearly one million older Australians and found that physical abuse and neglect were most commonly recorded.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 25, 2026

Lower hemoglobin levels can offer several health benefits

A new study by Finnish researchers found that lower hemoglobin levels within the normal range may be beneficial for glucose metabolism and cardiovascular health. The study, conducted on 64 adults, revealed an association between lower hemoglobin levels and improved physical fitness, heart health, and reduced liver fat.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalAnnals of Medicine·DateMar 25, 2026

JMIR Publications and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas announce flat-fee unlimited open access publishing partnership

JMIR Publications and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas announce a new Flat-Fee Unlimited Open Access Publishing Agreement. The agreement eliminates financial obstacles for researchers, reducing administrative workload for library staff and ensuring research findings are available via immediate open access in JMIR's high-impact journ...

Digital CBT reduced cardiac-related anxiety and improved disease-specific health status following heart attack

A new study published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that digital CBT significantly reduced cardiac-related anxiety and improved patients' quality of life and physical function after a heart attack. The treatment showed stable benefits up to one year after completion.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 25, 2026

Wristband enables wearers to control a robotic hand with their own movements

Researchers at MIT have developed an ultrasound wristband that precisely tracks hand movements, allowing users to control a robotic hand or manipulate virtual objects. The device produces high-quality images of the wrist's muscles and tendons, which are then translated into specific hand positions, enabling precise movement control.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateMar 25, 2026

Cactus catalogue could help plant’s prickly problem

A new open access database of cactus ecology and evolution could help scientists and conservationists save species from the brink. The CactEcoDB offers an unprecedented window into the evolution, ecology and conservation needs of one of the world's most distinctive and endangered plant families.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Data·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 25, 2026

Dormice weight fluctuates as climate changes

New research suggests that climate change causes dormice to gain weight before hibernation but lose weight after, potentially as a result of smaller bodies losing heat faster. The study also found that habitats with higher density hedgerows were associated with heavier dormice.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 25, 2026

Study finds a pregnancy complication that can increase a child’s risk of heart disease

A Rutgers Health study found that children born to mothers with premature placental separations are three times more likely to develop or die from cardiovascular disease. This risk is higher among those younger than 12 months old, and pregnant women over 35 or experiencing twin pregnancies are also at increased risk.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeObservational study·DateMar 25, 2026

HPV vaccination uptake in adults shaped by knowledge and medical advice

A nationwide survey in Switzerland found that HPV vaccination uptake among adults was lower than among adolescents, with only 27% of those aged 18-45 vaccinated. The survey also revealed significant differences between genders, age groups, and levels of knowledge about HPV, highlighting the need for targeted information and tailored co...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 25, 2026

Are mercury levels elevated across US conservation lands?

A study analyzing dragonfly larvae found moderate to high-risk mercury sites across 30 US National Wildlife Refuges, posing threats to fish, wildlife, and human health. The research provides baseline measurements for tracking change and informs future management actions to reduce mercury bioaccumulation.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Wildlife Management·DateMar 25, 2026

The polar bear ‘umbrella’: How protecting one species saves many

A new study reveals that protecting polar bear habitat naturally safeguards the resources they rely on to survive, providing critical benefits to the ecosystem. By analyzing tracking data from 355 bears, researchers identified a high-use area near Cape Churchill, Manitoba, highlighting it as a prime location for a Marine Protected Area.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalArctic Science·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 25, 2026

Preserving polarization while boosting light from atomically thin semiconductors with silicon nanospheres

Researchers have demonstrated that silicon nanospheres can enhance second-harmonic generation in monolayer transition-metal dichalcogenides while preserving valley-polarization information. The study provides design guidelines for efficient, polarization-preserving nonlinear light sources at the nanoscale.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026

Community music education a key youth wellbeing strategy

A new Edith Cowan University study investigates the positive impact of community music education programs in regional Australia on the wellbeing of adolescents and young adults. The study found that CMEPs satisfy psychological needs relatedness, competency, and autonomy, promoting human flourishing.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalResearch Studies in Music Education·TypeCase study·DateMar 25, 2026

Effect of teachers' responses to school bell on social tension in classroom interactions

A new study by Doshisha University found that teachers' deliberate actions at the start of a lesson, such as responding to the school bell, can create social tightness or looseness. Teachers who enforced strict rules and verbal prompts maintained tightness, while those with more relaxed approaches created loose occasions for students.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalLinguistics and Education·TypeObservational study·DateMar 25, 2026