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Science News for March 3, 2026


Tired minds, unreliable evidence

Sleep deprivation can weaken eyewitness recall, reduce autobiographical detail, and increase susceptibility to misinformation in legal proceedings. This can lead to false confessions and wrongful convictions, as exhausted individuals may prioritize short-term relief over long-term consequences.

Shrinking the carbon footprint of chemical manufacturing with lasers, solar radiation

Researchers at University of Illinois have developed a new method using solar energy to power a key chemical reaction in the textile, plastic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. This method can significantly reduce the industry's carbon footprint by eliminating harsh oxidizing byproducts and minimizing carbon emissions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

New Center for Computational Social Science and Humanities at NUS to advance interdisciplinary research on complex societal challenges

The Centre for Computational Social Science and Humanities (CSSH) at NUS combines computational methods with social science and humanities to better understand complex social phenomena and develop solutions. CSSH aims to generate research that improves lives, strengthens institutions, and shapes more inclusive societies.

Chinese scientists develop new model to accurately assess global salt marsh carbon sinks

A new process-based model, SAL-GPP, has been developed to accurately assess the carbon sequestration capacity of global salt marshes. The model reveals that global salt marshes have an average annual gross primary production of 66.89 Tg C yr⁻¹, with hotspots in regions like China's southeastern coast and Western Europe.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 3, 2026

Taller doesn’t mean terrible: How smart design can lower carbon emissions for residential buildings

Researchers found that concrete slab size is the worst offender in terms of carbon emissions, with changing this feature alone able to save large amounts of emissions. Optimize design decisions such as floor thickness, building materials, and construction culture to reduce pollution.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·DateMar 3, 2026

Location, location, location: For potassium channels, it depends on functionality

Potassium KCNQ2/3 channels need full functionality to work properly in the brain and reach their correct location. This is linked to their regulation by protein ankG. Altering channel functionality affects neuronal excitability and may contribute to developing new therapeutic strategies for epilepsy.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

Emotions drive our eating choices

A study found that individuals trying to diet are more likely to choose unhealthy snacks when feeling negative emotions, but emotional awareness is the key to maintaining healthier eating habits. Practicable strategies like mindfulness exercises and checking in with feelings can help dieters stay on track.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFood Quality and Preference·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2026

Synergistic shallow impurity levels and multiscale defect engineering boost GeTe thermoelectric performance to ZT of 2.15

Researchers developed a novel doping strategy using Sb and Ni to optimize GeTe's electronic band structure and thermal conductivity. This approach yielded exceptional thermoelectric performance by enhancing power factor and suppressing thermal conductivity, achieving a peak ZT of 2.15 at 773 K.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMar 3, 2026

First report on high-temperature-resistant sinoite fibers with near-stoichiometric Si2N2O ratio: High-temperature structural evolution and mosaic-shell formation of sinoite fibers resistant to 1700℃

Researchers have developed high-temperature-resistant sinoite fibers with a near-stoichiometric Si2N2O ratio, exhibiting outstanding high-temperature resistance and mosaic-shell formation at 1700°C. The novel fibers maintain tensile strength and low-dielectric properties, making them promising for thermal protection systems.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMar 3, 2026

Sungkyunkwan University researchers develop next-generation transparent electrode without rare metal indium

Researchers at Sungkyunkwan University have developed a novel transparent electrode technology that eliminates the use of rare metal indium, increasing device lifetime by doubling its performance. The new NTO-based electrode achieves high external quantum efficiency and long-term stability, making it suitable for mass production.

New MOH–NUS Fellowship launched to strengthen everyday ethics in Singapore’s healthcare sector

The MOH–NUS Postgraduate Fellowship in Biomedical Ethics aims to equip healthcare professionals with knowledge and understanding of biomedical ethics, ethical analysis and reasoning. The first awardee, Ms Kwek Shi Qi, will conduct a research project to map barriers and drivers for nurses mediating ethical conflicts in frontline work.

From algorithms to atoms: How artificial intelligence is accelerating the discovery of next-generation energy materials

The study reveals how AI is fundamentally shifting the paradigm for discovering high-performance batteries and efficient electrocatalysts. AI-driven generative models and Large Language Models are enabling scientists to predict exact chemical structures and navigate vast chemical spaces at unprecedented speeds.

Breakthrough in ZrC ceramics: Multi-scale structural design via two-step in-situ reactive spark plasma sintering significantly enhances strength and toughness

A team of material scientists developed a novel two-step in-situ reactive spark plasma sintering process to create ultra-high temperature ceramics with balanced mechanical performance. The resulting ZTS-30B ceramic exhibited enhanced flexural strength and fracture toughness compared to previous materials.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMar 3, 2026

Sugar comforts newborn babies during painful procedures

A new Cochrane review found that sucrose can effectively reduce pain in newborn babies during painful procedures like venepuncture. The study examined 29 clinical trials involving over 2,700 babies and showed that a small amount of sucrose given before the procedure significantly reduces pain when combined with non-nutritive sucking.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 3, 2026

Blood clot sting in the tail of scorpion venom

A study by Professor Bryan Fry and Sam Campbell from the University of Queensland found that scorpion venom activates major clotting factors in human blood, particularly Factors VII and X. The research also identified small-molecule metalloprotease inhibitors that can neutralize the procoagulant effect.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalBiochimie·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Children’s development set back years by Covid lockdowns, study reveals

A study from the University of East Anglia found that Covid lockdowns disrupted children's ability to self-regulate, leading to slower growth in executive functions. Reception-age children, who normally learn to socialize and navigate classroom routines, showed significant setbacks in cognitive flexibility and self-regulation skills.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2026

Around 6 deaths a year linked to clubbing in the UK

A 15-year retrospective study found that physical assault and excessive MDMA use are primary causes of nightclub deaths in the UK. The study reveals a significant number of young women are at higher risk of dying from drug-related causes.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2026

New farm-scale biochar system could cut agricultural emissions by 75 percent while removing carbon from the atmosphere

A new study presents a practical and regulation-compliant design for producing biochar on farms that could dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture while permanently removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The proposed system could produce 300 tonnes of biochar annually, sequester approximately 350 tonnes of c...

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

From herbal waste to high performance clean water material: Turning traditional medicine residues into powerful biochar

Researchers convert herbal waste into high-performance biochar materials capable of removing toxic pollutants from water and soil. The biochars possess unique advantages due to their natural composition, which includes cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and bioactive compounds.

New sulfur-iron biochar shows powerful ability to lock up arsenic and cadmium in contaminated soils

A novel engineered biochar has been developed to simultaneously immobilize arsenic and cadmium in contaminated water and agricultural soils. The sulfur-ferrihydrite-modified biochar achieves high adsorption capacities for both pollutants, transforming them into more stable residual fractions.

Strong alcohol policy could reduce cancer in Canada

A University of Victoria study found that implementing strong alcohol policies, including warning labels and minimum unit pricing, could prevent hundreds of cancer diagnoses and deaths in Canada. The combination of a $2.00 minimum price and a cancer warning label showed the strongest reduction in cancer cases and deaths.

SourceUniversity of Victoria·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateMar 3, 2026

Pennington Biomedical researcher publishes editorial in leading American Heart Association journal

A Pennington Biomedical researcher published an editorial on the benefits of fruit intake for vascular health, citing a study on increasing fruit intake with avocados and mangos. The findings suggest that diets rich in fruits can improve nutrient status and health outcomes, aligning with the goals of the Food Is Medicine initiative.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMar 3, 2026

New tool reveals the secrets of HIV-infected cells

A new tool, HIV-seq, has been developed to profile rare HIV-infected cells from people with HIV. The tool has recovered and analyzed more HIV-infected cells and higher numbers of HIV RNA within those infected cells. The study has identified key differences in people's HIV-infected cells before versus after starting antiretroviral therapy.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 3, 2026

Ochsner Children's CEO joins Make-A-Wish Board

Dana Bledsoe, Ochsner Children's CEO, joins the Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana Board to further strengthen collaborative efforts to reach more children in need. The partnership has successfully granted 12 wishes and provided support to hundreds of patients and their families since its formal launch in April 2025.

Diisobutyl phthalate at environmental concentration promotes conjugative transfer of antibiotic resistance genes

Researchers found that diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) exposure significantly increases conjugative transfer frequency of antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria, particularly through oxidative stress and altered cell membrane permeability. This study provides a mechanistic framework for understanding the ecological risks posed by DIBP.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalEnvironmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Team explores role of the mannose pathway in regulating cell fate decisions

A team of scientists discovered that the mannose pathway plays a crucial role in regulating cell fate decisions in low glucose environments, particularly in cancer cells. They found that reducing mannose pathway activity led to impaired N-glycan biosynthesis and activated pro-survival signals, which can contribute to cancer progression.

SourceInstitute for Glyco-core Research (iGCORE), Tokai National Higher Education and Research System·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Tingxiang Zou to lead a new Emmy Noether group

Tingxiang Zou's newly formed Emmy Noether group will study higher-dimensional versions of the Elekes-Szabó problem, a combinatorial problem with connections to geometry, algebra, and model theory. The research aims to explain cases where algebraic equations have an unexpectedly large solution set in finite grids.

Measuring the breath of the Amazon River

Researchers are using satellite data to measure the Amazon River's water loss through evaporation. This study will create a first-ever basin-wide record of evaporation across the Amazon River, covering 40 years. The findings have significant implications for global environmental sustainability and addressing real-world issues.

Why one herb smells stronger: Genomics explains the chemistry behind Xiangru quality

A comprehensive multi-omics study reveals how genome evolution, specialized metabolites, and microscopic leaf structures jointly determine the quality of Xiangru, a traditional medicinal and edible herb. The study identifies key biosynthetic genes and transcription factors that regulate aroma-producing compounds and trichome formation.

Implementing selective immigration and import policies could counter the rise in populism

A new study examines the link between globalisation and populism, finding that selective immigration and import policies can reduce populist rhetoric and electoral success. The study's authors developed a new index to measure a party's level of populism, which shows that populism grew significantly in Europe during the 2010s.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalThe Economic Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

Balancing two genomes as one: Epigenomic coordination stabilizes polyploid rapeseed

Researchers found that regulatory features of homoeologous genes become increasingly similar after polyploidization, reducing expression divergence between duplicated gene pairs. Epigenomic convergence directly contributes to transcriptional balance, while genomic structure and cis-regulatory evolution jointly buffer subgenomic conflict.

UCO designs a 100% recycled paving block made from mollusk shells and mining waste

A team from UCO develops a 100% recycled paving block made from mollusk shells and mining waste, replacing natural aggregates and conventional cement. The block meets mechanical, durability, and safety criteria without using single natural material, contributing to circular economy and decarbonization in the construction sector.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalMaterials and Structures·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Ultra-processed foods in preschool years associated with behavioural difficulties in childhood

Researchers at the University of Toronto found that higher ultra-processed food consumption is associated with increased anxiety, fearfulness, aggression and hyperactivity in preschoolers. Replacing ultra-processed foods with minimally processed options may support healthier development and lower behavioural difficulties.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2026

Snow? Increasingly ‘no,’ according to new research

A new study published in the Journal of Hydrometeorology reveals significant declines in snow cover across the Northern Hemisphere, with about 24% of regions showing decreases. The research also identifies seasonal shifts, with snow cover declining earlier in March and retreating at the southern edge.

SourceMississippi State University·JournalJournal of Hydrometeorology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

Self-cleaning fuel cells? Researchers reveal steam-powered fix for ‘sulfur poisoning’

University of Utah researchers have discovered a steam-enabled self-cleaning mechanism that dramatically improves sulfur tolerance in solid oxide fuel cell anodes. The addition of rhodium leads to the formation of bimetallic nanoparticles that actively resist sulfur poisoning and autonomously regenerate under steam exposure.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Public perceptions of assisted reproductive technologies in wildlife conservation: Insights from three EU countries

A recent study found that public perceptions of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) in wildlife conservation differ across EU countries. While respondents generally accepted ART as a complementary strategy to address biodiversity loss, there was variation in attitudes towards innovative approaches. The study highlighted the import...

Research spotlight: Revolutionizing early detection of heterotopic ossification

A new study successfully detected heterotopic ossification (HO) weeks before current imaging techniques, enabling early intervention and potentially transforming HO prevention and treatment. The liquid biopsy method identified a unique gene signature associated with bone formation, achieving high accuracy in predicting at-risk patients.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 3, 2026

Recycling jumps when garbage collection drops, new Concordia research shows

A new Concordia study reveals that UK household recycling rates are influenced by factors such as garbage collection frequency, education, and population density. The research found that districts with less frequent garbage collection and convenient recycling systems had higher recycling rates, with median levels of around 61%.

SourceConcordia University·JournalWaste Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

BU researchers identify specific protein and sugar molecules affected by aging, disease

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered protein and sugar level changes that occur with aging and Alzheimer's disease brains. The study uses a unique mass spectrometry technique to capture detailed molecular information, providing new avenues for biomarker discovery and potential treatments.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Study shows nursing home staffing patterns can reduce harmful falls among residents

A new study found that nursing homes with recommended staffing levels report fewer injurious falls, while facilities with insufficient staff experience increased falls. Higher staffing hours for certified nursing assistants and registered nurses significantly reduce fall rates.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

Rewilding could fill gap left by Panama’s lost giants

A study of lake sediments reveals three major declines of plant-eating megafauna in Panama, which had significant impacts on forests and grasslands. Rewilding efforts by introducing new species or increasing populations of existing ones could restore nature and its benefits to humans.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2026

A sea without borders

Researchers tracked over 700,000 detections from 222 gilthead seabream using acoustic transmitters, confirming a single, functionally connected population on a large scale. This study highlights the importance of regional acoustic telemetry networks in understanding coastal species connectivity and raises questions about current fish s...

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMovement Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Society of Interventional Radiology publishes practice guidance for treatment of chronic pelvic pain

The Society of Interventional Radiology has published new practice guidance for treating chronic pelvic pain in women with venous-origin disorders, emphasizing interventional radiology's role in care. The guidance provides evidence-based recommendations on diagnosis, treatment options, and imaging.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 3, 2026

Mizzou researchers explore why people with autism may be more likely to get Parkinson’s disease

A recent study by Mizzou researchers found that some young adults with autism exhibit abnormalities in dopamine transporters on brain scans, which could be early biomarkers for potential Parkinson's disease development. This discovery may help identify individuals at greater risk and inform preventative measures.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAutism Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

How an underground fungal map of the world’s oldest, slowest-growing rainforest trees can boost the resilience of Earth’s long-term carbon sinks

Scientists discovered that a single, 2,400-year-old alerce tree protects hundreds to thousands of underground fungal species. These fungi help forests function by funneling water and nutrients to trees and assisting plants in fighting stressors like drought and pathogens.

SourceSociety for the Protection of Underground Networks·JournalBiodiversity and Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

Comprehensive genetic library for soybean cyst nematode could renew resistance, profitability for soybean growers

A multi-institution research team has developed a comprehensive genetic library for the soybean cyst nematode, which could help renew resistance and profitability for soybean growers. The pangenome allows for population genetic analysis to understand how nematodes are overcoming resistance.

Pro-inflammatory macrophages increase melanoma cell aggressiveness via extracellular vesicles

Recent research from the University of Eastern Finland reveals that pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages accelerate melanoma progression through extracellular vesicle secretion. These vesicles contain inflammatory mediators that activate cancer cells, creating a favourable environment for tumour growth and invasiveness.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCell Communication and Signaling·DateMar 3, 2026

The key to attacking “undruggable” proteins: IRB Barcelona reveals a breakthrough drug mechanism

A study published in Science Advances reveals a mechanism to bind to intrinsically disordered proteins, providing a new approach for therapeutic design. The research, led by Dr. Xavier Salvatella, shows that these proteins adopt more organized conformations when clustering, allowing for selective binding by a drug.

Largest high-precision 3D facial database built in China, enabling more lifelike digital humans

Researchers developed a new curvature-fused graph attention network to predict 3D facial landmarks from raw point clouds. The resulting database includes approximately 200,000 high-fidelity 3D facial scans, enabling models to learn richer geometric patterns and adapt more effectively to real-world variability.

Fans value ethics over innovation at AI hologram concerts, new USF study finds

A new USF study finds that consumers value ethics, trust, and emotional connection over novelty in hologram AI concerts, with respect for artists' legacy and transparency being key factors. The study's findings suggest that human values, not just innovation, determine the meaningful impact of technology-driven entertainment.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalInternational Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

Next-generation metabolic theory suggests glycolytic ATP decline may limit lifespan

A new metabolic theory proposes that a decline in glycolytic ATP production is the fundamental mechanism limiting lifespan. Species with an optimal rate of decline survived, suggesting that maintaining a stable glycolytic flux may support repair processes and tissue regeneration. The authors propose testing this hypothesis through expe...

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateMar 3, 2026

TRIXS: A multilayer grating solution towards highly efficient resonant inelastic tender X-ray scattering

Researchers developed a multilayer grating solution to enhance RIXS efficiency in the tender X-ray range, reducing acquisition time from hours to minutes. The new spectrometer covers both soft and tender X-ray regions, offering improved performance for studying 4d transition metal materials.

The ISSCR honors stem cell COREdinates and CorEUstem with the 2026 ISSCR Public Service Award

Stem Cell COREdinates and CorEUstem have transformed the global infrastructure of pluripotent stem cell research by uniting 79 core facilities across continents to advance collaboration, rigor, inclusivity, and innovation. Their shared standards and protocols have strengthened reproducibility and ensured excellence in accessible for in...

Discovering the “brain fingerprints” of chronic pain

A team of researchers has developed a method to decode fluctuations in spontaneous pain intensity in individuals with chronic pain using extensively sampled functional MRI data. The study found that neural patterns underlying pain differ markedly between individuals, highlighting the importance of individualized brain-based biomarkers.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Spectral-acoustic-coordinated astigmatic metalens for wide field-of-view and high spatiotemporal resolution 3D imaging

A team of scientists developed a novel LiDAR architecture featuring an ultra-high frame-wise point acquisition rate, a 102° wide FOV, and an angular resolution of 6.5 mrad. The system overcomes conventional trade-offs, enabling high-speed and high-resolution imaging.

Not either, but both: making a highly precise and highly mobile precision positioning robot

Researchers from Yokohama National University created a highly precise mobile robot with a wide range of motion using piezoelectric actuators, achieving path errors of under 0.5-4.75 µm. The robot's performance demonstrated its suitability for precise positioning and wide transportation of objects of various sizes.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Mount Sinai and King Saud University Medical City forge a three-year collaboration to advance precision medicine in familial inflammatory bowel disease

The collaboration aims to understand why IBD runs in some Saudi families and develop personalized treatment options. By studying well-characterized families with multiple members affected, researchers hope to identify exposure and biological markers that drive disease mechanisms and outcomes.

Doctors and nurses believe their own substance use affects patients

A study of over 3,300 healthcare workers in Sweden found that those who used alcohol and illegal drugs reported providing lower-quality care. The researchers also noted that substance abuse can serve as a maladaptive coping mechanism for managing high workloads, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Nursing Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

AI biases can influence people’s perception of history

Research participants reading AI-generated summaries of historical events showed more liberal opinions than those reading Wikipedia summaries, indicating a subtle influence of AI biases on public understanding of the past. The study highlights the need for LLMs to be designed with bias-reducing features to provide unbiased information.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 3, 2026

Big and small dogs both impact indoor air quality, just differently

A study by the American Chemical Society found that small active dogs produce more airborne particles, while larger dogs release more microbes into the air. The research suggests that dogs can impact household air quality at a level similar to or more than humans, and highlights the importance of including pet emissions in ventilation ...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 3, 2026

Prenatal opioid exposure and well-being through adolescence

Children exposed to opioids before birth face struggles in healthcare utilization and educational outcomes, with increased healthcare expenditures and special education services. Targeted interventions and integrated policymaking are needed to break the intergenerational cycle of opioid-related harm.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 3, 2026

Hairdressers could be a secret weapon in tackling climate change, new research finds

Research from the University of Bath's Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations reveals that hairdressers can prompt climate conversations and inspire change. Salon owners reported successful conversations with clients about sustainability, leading to changes in habits such as water and energy usage, and even dietary choices.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2026

Genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed, massive Swedish study reveals

A massive Swedish study of over 2 million individuals reveals that genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed. Schizophrenia shows the highest genetic specificity, while drug use disorder has a much lower specificity, scattering its genetic risk across multiple conditions.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalGenomic Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2026

A therapeutic target that would curb the spread of coronaviruses has been identified

Coronaviruses modify cellular machinery to produce viral proteins and spread rapidly. A study found that infection causes stress-induced changes in tRNAs, allowing coronaviruses to speed up protein production without generating new machinery. The modification of tRNAs is a promising candidate for developing broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Miniscule fossil discovery reveals fresh clues into the evolution of the earliest-known relative of all primates

The discovery of miniscule Purgatorius fossils in Colorado provides fresh insights into the evolution of the earliest-known relative of all primates. The find suggests that archaic primates originated in the north and spread southward, diversifying soon after the mass extinction at the end of the Cretaceous Period.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2026

Modern twist on wildfire management methods found also to have a bonus feature that protects water supplies

Forest thinning found to improve wildfire risk reduction and hydrological resilience, increasing snowpack depth by 30% on north-facing slopes. The treatment recovered about 12.3 acre-feet of snow-stored water per 100 acres, equivalent to roughly 15 Olympic swimming pools per square kilometer.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Forests and Global Change·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026