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Science News for March 31, 2026


What's driving Salt Lake City's downward emissions trends?

Emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO) in Salt Lake City have declined significantly over the past two decades, driven by improved vehicle technology and emission standards. Meanwhile, levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), a major contributor to climate change, have remained relatively steady.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAtmospheric Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2026

Housing Bureau and HKU sign MOU on innovative technological research and applications for public housing developments in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Housing Bureau and the University of Hong Kong have signed an MOU to leverage research prowess in advancing construction technologies for public housing projects. The partnership aims to bring world-class innovations to local construction practices, prioritizing quality, sustainability, and efficiency.

Scientists develop scalable ultrastrong bamboo strips through revolutionary "homogeneous fusion" technique

Scientists developed a scalable ultrastrong bamboo strip through homogeneous fusion, achieving 942 MPa tensile strength and 32.1 GPa Young's modulus. The material demonstrates exceptional durability, biodegradability, and practical scalability for various industries.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Modeling of parallel single-pixel imaging for 3D reconstruction: New insights and opportunities

Researchers develop a comprehensive framework for parallel single-pixel imaging, enabling accurate separation and localization of complex illumination components. The proposed model shows advantages in mixed-scene reconstruction and significantly outperforms conventional methods in low signal-to-noise ratio environments.

SourceAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·JournalAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Solving a century-old mystery of arboviral transmission: A new mechanism opens new paths for prevention and control

A commentary resolves a century-old mystery of arboviral transmission by identifying molecular constraints that govern systemic viral dissemination in mosquitoes. The study reveals that flaviviruses use extracellular vesicles to transmit and are bound by valosin-containing protein, providing targets for prevention and control.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalInfectious Diseases & Immunity·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2026

World’s largest quantum circuit simulation for quantum chemistry achieved on 1,024 GPUs

Researchers have demonstrated a world-leading classical simulation of iterative quantum phase estimation circuits for quantum chemistry on up to 1,024 GPUs, expanding the scale of molecular systems available for the development and validation of quantum algorithms. This achievement supports progress toward industrial applications in dr...

SourceThe University of Osaka·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2026

Researchers decode molecular secrets of surfactant-mediated enzyme protection in lignocellulose biorefining

A comprehensive study decodes structure-function relationships governing surfactant-mediated enzyme protection, revealing a competitive stabilization mechanism. The research identifies key factors influencing mitigation efficacy, including hydrophobicity and hydrogen bonding capacity, and provides predictive power for designing more ef...

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·DateMar 31, 2026

Functionalized microalgae emerge as versatile bioproducts for next-generation biomedical applications

Microalgae are transformed into functionalized composite bioproducts for precision diagnosis, targeted therapy, and integrated theranostics. They offer exceptional biological properties for biomedical engineering, including molecular loading, active movement, and intense autofluorescence for imaging applications.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 31, 2026

Postoperative rebleeding: The sword of Damocles in minimally invasive surgery for intracerebral hemorrhage

Postoperative rebleeding is a critical complication of minimally invasive surgery for intracerebral hemorrhage, significantly reducing survival rates and functional recovery levels. The review outlines standardized definitions, dual pathogenic mechanisms, risk profiling, and stratified prevention strategies to address this challenge.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateMar 31, 2026

Building desktop particle accelerators to unlock new realms of research

The University of Osaka's researchers have achieved a key milestone in creating tabletop x-ray lasers by demonstrating free-electron laser amplification at extreme ultraviolet wavelengths. They used laser wakefield acceleration to generate high-quality, monoenergetic electron beams, enabling precise control of the plasma source.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Doubt cast on effectiveness of widely used ‘KT-tape’ for joint/muscle pain + mobility

Research suggests that Kinesio taping (KT tape) may reduce pain intensity in the immediate and short term, but evidence for long-term benefits and its use in various musculoskeletal conditions is inconclusive. The majority of systematic reviews found inconsistent findings, and potential skin irritation remains a concern.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEvidence-Based Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 31, 2026

Not all biochar is created equal: study calls for clearer standards in carbon markets and agriculture

A new study highlights the critical misunderstanding of biochar's role in fighting climate change and improving soils, warning that oversimplified claims could undermine scientific progress and carbon markets. Biochar is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its effectiveness depends on where it is used.

Genetic variants involved in rapid immune response linked to earlier breast cancer onset in BRCA1 carriers

Researchers have identified a link between genetic variants involved in innate immunity and earlier breast cancer onset in BRCA1 carriers. The study found that mutations in genes involved in natural killer cell activation were strongly associated with an increased risk, suggesting the need for more refined risk prediction models.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2026

Alexander Kerr named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Oral Medicine & Pathology Research

Alexander Kerr, NYU Clinical Professor, recognized for outstanding research on oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders. The IADR Distinguished Scientist Award is one of the highest honors bestowed by IADR, recognizing contributions to understanding oral health and disease mechanisms.

Biochar–microbe partnership unlocks soil phosphorus and boosts tomato yields

Researchers found that combining biochar with beneficial bacteria significantly improves phosphorus availability, reshaping plant development and increasing crop yields in greenhouse-grown cherry tomatoes. The study also showed that this approach can enhance soil fertility and crop productivity without increasing fertilizer inputs.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Wendy Thompson named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Pharmacology/Therapeutics/Toxicology Research

Wendy Thompson, a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Manchester, has been awarded the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Pharmacology/Therapeutics/Toxicology Research. Her research focus on antimicrobial stewardship and primary dental care has made significant contributions to the field.

The more siblings you have the easier it may be to cope with parental death in midlife

Research suggests that individuals with more siblings may experience lower rates of mental health medication purchases after a parental death, particularly among women. The study analyzed data from Finland and found that those with fewer siblings were more likely to purchase psychotropic medications in the year before and after their m...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2026

David Conway named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist H. Trendley Dean Memorial Award

David Conway, Professor of Dental Public Health at the University of Glasgow, has been recognized for his research on socioeconomic inequalities in health and oral health, particularly head and neck cancer and child oral health. His work has attracted significant funding and informed public health policies globally.

Urban construction soils identified as hidden carbon source, with biochar offering a scalable climate solution

A new study reveals excavated urban soils as a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon dioxide and methane. Biochar application and soil capping can dramatically reduce emissions by up to 96%, offering a practical climate solution for urban development.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Sudeshni Naidoo named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist John Greenspan Global Oral Health Research Award

Sudeshni Naidoo, a renowned researcher and specialist in dental public health, has been awarded the IADR Distinguished Scientist John Greenspan Global Oral Health Research Award. Her work focuses on infectious diseases, bioethics, nutrition, and noncommunicable diseases, among other areas.

Brian Foster named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Basic Research in Biological Mineralization

Brian Foster, Associate Professor at The Ohio State University, has been recognized for his work on biological mineralization. He is the recipient of the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award, supported by Unilever Oral Care, for his contributions to cementum and biomineralization research.

New model shows how behavioral flexibility affects animal evolution

A new model by Carlos Botero suggests that animals with moderate behavioral flexibility can quickly adapt to environmental changes and evolve new forms, challenging the assumption that slow-evolving species are at higher risk from climate change. The model predicts that flexible lineages may fare better than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2026

Understanding language requires communication between multiple brain regions, UTHealth Houston researchers discover

The study found that concrete words activated regions of the brain responsible for sensory experiences and language, while abstract words relied more heavily on language-related areas. The team also discovered that multiple brain regions communicated with each other to process both concrete and abstract words.

Rethinking Europe’s nature reserves

Researchers propose incorporating local knowledge into nature conservation through a biocultural approach. This involves collaborating with local people, considering traditional land-use practices and their impact on protected areas.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalConservation Letters·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2026

Tides supercharge biochar’s carbon capture power in coastal wetlands

A field study found that adding biochar to estuarine wetlands increased sediment carbon storage while suppressing carbon loss. Tidal dynamics amplified the effectiveness of biochar as a climate solution by stabilizing carbon in sediments and reducing microbial activity associated with carbon decomposition.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Physicist recreates neutron star reaction, reveals how explosive stars forge elements

A Mississippi State physicist has achieved a significant scientific advancement by producing a direct laboratory measurement of a key nuclear reaction believed to occur during explosive bursts on neutron stars. These reactions forge heavier elements, including oxygen and iron, which are essential for planet formation and life.

SourceMississippi State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Biochar from peanut shells boosts soil health and crop quality over the long term

A six-year field study reveals that biochar made from peanut shells improves soil fertility and enhances crop quality by reshaping soil microbial communities. The study shows that biochar acts as both a habitat and a nutrient source for beneficial microbes, promoting plant growth and increasing soluble sugar content in tobacco leaves.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Researchers investigate the Planetary Health Diet in pregnancy

A new study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that following a Planetary Health Diet during pregnancy can lead to higher intakes of essential nutrients like folate, iron, calcium, and dietary fibre. The researchers suggest that adhering to this diet may support both human health and environmental sustainability.

SourceUCD Research & Innovation·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2026

Quantum magnetism: FSU researchers demonstrate spin-flip process in atomic nucleus does not account for all magnetic behavior

A new study by FSU researchers using the John D. Fox Superconducting Linear Accelerator Laboratory showed that a long-standing explanation for magnetism in atomic nuclei does not fully work for titanium-50. The research suggests that scientists may need to rethink how they explain nuclear magnetism.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 31, 2026

We prefer colors: Product labeling can save your health

A recent study found that colour coding is more effective than traditional nutritional tables in influencing consumers' dietary choices, thanks to the brain's instant processing of benefit and risk signals. Colour-coded labels encourage healthier product selection by harnessing visual attention mechanisms.

SourceSWPS University·JournalCurrent Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateMar 31, 2026

Quebec’s residential energy use is better explained by demographics than building age, Concordia study shows

A Concordia University study found that demographic factors such as income and household size drive energy consumption in Quebec's major urban centres. The research used meter readings and census data to reveal strong links between social characteristics and energy use, with higher-income areas and larger households consuming more energy.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateMar 31, 2026

Markers of lymphoma cancer relapse identified

A new study from the University of Missouri identified over 10 genetic or molecular markers that predict follicular lymphoma relapse early, allowing for targeted surveillance testing. This could improve patient outcomes, reduce unnecessary imaging tests, and lower healthcare costs.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2026

New twin study highlights the power of genetics

A new twin study reveals that innate IQ is a key predictor of future socio-economic status, with genetics playing a significant role. The study found that IQ is approximately 75% genetically predicted and that socio-economic status is mostly explained by genetics.

SourceLund University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 31, 2026

It takes a village for Lake Tanganyika fish

A team of researchers at Kyoto University found that cooperative breeding in Lake Tanganyika's lamprologine cichlids first emerged around 4 million years ago. The study reveals a link between cooperative breeding and smaller body sizes, as well as reduced clutch size.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2026

HonorHealth Research Institute patient receives new type of lumbar spine disc repair, alleviating pain and restoring range of motion

The PerQdisc procedure, a less-invasive treatment option, preserves the outer part of the disc, maintaining mobility and restoring functionality. Dr. Luis Tumialan's first patient experienced significant pain relief and was able to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.

SourceHonorHealth Research Institute·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 2026

The ‘thermal hustle’: FIU researchers track how great hammerhead sharks outsmart ocean temperature swings

Researchers tracked movement, acceleration, depth, and water temperature for nine hammerheads in Florida and the Bahamas waters. They found great hammerheads can effectively hunt fast-moving prey like blacktip sharks in winter and tarpon in summer, suggesting they may tolerate changing climates better than other species.

SourceFlorida International University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2026

Women are being shut out of workplaces because of a hidden time gap, new research shows

A new study by University of East London researchers reveals that women are being shut out of workplaces due to a hidden time gap caused by unpaid care and rigid social expectations. This 'time squeeze' leaves women with less time for networking, training, and progression, hindering their career advancement.

SourceUniversity of East London·JournalInternational Journal of Management Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 31, 2026

Integration of single-cell multiomics data allows a more precise identification of rare cell types and states

Researchers developed an interpretable machine learning algorithm, scOMM, to classify cell types consistently across different single-cell methods. The integration strategies and scOMM establish a robust approach for cell atlas generation in complex tissues, leading to the discovery of previously undetected rare cell types.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalGenome Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

A tiny sensor that reads creatinine in seconds

Researchers have developed a compact chemiresistive biosensor that directly transduces biochemical reactions into electrical signals, detecting creatinine concentrations from 1 to 300 mg/dL with high sensitivity and selectivity. The sensor's two-electrode design eliminates the need for reference electrodes and operates in just 35 seconds.

Large clinical RCT trial finds no clear added benefit of catheter ablation for preventing recurrent stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation

A nationwide Japanese trial found that catheter ablation did not reduce the risk of recurrent stroke or major cardiovascular events in patients with atrial fibrillation who had recently experienced a stroke. The study, which enrolled 251 patients and followed them for over three years, suggests that routine addition of catheter ablatio...

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 2026

Tailoring sapphire–Invar welds using burst femtosecond laser

The study achieves stable welding between sapphire and Invar under non-optical-contact conditions, with a maximum shear strength of 11.73 MPa. High-speed imaging techniques reveal the coupling of linear absorption and nonlinear absorption at the interface, sustaining plasma and energy deposition.

Scalable fabrication of large‑scale electrochromic smart windows for superior solar radiation regulation and energy savings

Researchers developed a scalable strategy for fabricating large-area electrochromic smart windows using tungsten oxide films, enabling practical industrial production. The technology reduces building energy consumption by up to 140.0 MJ m−2 compared to conventional windows, showcasing significant energy-saving potential.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMar 31, 2026

Plastic additives tied to millions of preterm births worldwide

A new analysis estimates that exposure to di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP) contributed to 1.97 million preterm births in 2018, equivalent to 8% of global total. The study also linked DEHP to 74,000 newborn deaths and found a significant health burden across regions with rapidly growing plastics industries.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2026

Imagination is more than sensory replay

A Northwestern University study found that imagination is not just a copy of sensation, but emerges at later stages of processing when the brain represents information holistically. The researchers mapped brain activity during imagination and perception, finding overlap in higher-level association areas.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuron·DateMar 31, 2026

A stiff defense: Rethinking gum disease

New research demonstrates that restoring the physical stiffness of the gingival tissue can fundamentally change how cells respond to infection, potentially paving the way for new treatments. The study uses a hydrogel system to investigate how gum tissue stiffness impacts periodontal disease inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Targeting tumor supporting cells: Advancing CAR T success in pancreatic cancer

Researchers have developed a new CAR T therapy that targets tumor-supporting cells in pancreatic cancer, paving the way for a potentially safer and more effective treatment. The therapy uses lipid nanoparticles to deliver CAR instructions directly to patient T cells, resulting in higher expression rates and improved efficacy compared t...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCancer Immunology Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

New study demonstrates feasibility and safety of deprescribing diabetes medications when lifestyle medicine is integrated into primary care

A new study demonstrates that deprescribing glucose-lowering medications in type 2 diabetes patients can lead to clinically meaningful reductions in body mass index and blood glucose levels. Lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications and increased physical activity, were commonly observed in these patients.

SourceAmerican College of Lifestyle Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·DateMar 31, 2026

FAU study finds parasites defy biodiversity rules, thriving far from the equator

Researchers found that trematode parasites are more abundant in cooler temperate waters, defying the typical pattern of higher biodiversity near the equator. Temperature and host mobility play a major role in shaping parasite distributions, with certain species thriving in areas where hosts can tolerate infections better.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Biogeography·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 31, 2026

Trauma from intragroup vs. intergroup violence

A study found that Tamil civilians experienced nearly four times more PTSD after intragroup violence compared to intergroup violence, with intragroup violence inflicting three to five times more trauma. Intergroup violence was positively associated with post-traumatic growth, while intragroup violence showed no such effect.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 31, 2026

Scientists warn antibacterial soaps and wipes can fuel antimicrobial resistance

A growing body of evidence suggests that daily use of antibacterial soaps, wipes, and other household products contributes to the global rise of antimicrobial resistance. Researchers call for policymakers to restrict these ingredients when there is no evidence of efficacy, reducing chemical pollution and protecting public health.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 31, 2026

AstraZeneca joins Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program as Funding Partner

The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program has partnered with AstraZeneca to support five medical students participating in the Winn Clinical Investigator Pathway Program (Winn CIPP). The program provides immersive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience to prepare students for careers in clinical research.

Study in Chinese Medical Journal shows modified phoenix sepsis score improves mortality prediction in children

Researchers evaluated the performance of the Phoenix Sepsis Score for predicting in-hospital mortality among pediatric ICU patients in China. They found that a modified version, PSS+, showed substantially improved discrimination without sacrificing clinical usability.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2026

Synergistic Pd sites in ordered macroporous In2O3 for enhanced CO2 photo-reduction

A new catalyst enhances the photocatalytic conversion of CO2 and H2O into CO by integrating synergistic Pd single atoms and clusters. The unique structure improves electron transfer efficiencies and accelerates proton-coupled electron transfer for CO2 reduction. The results demonstrate improved CO production rates with high selectivity.

Scientists develop ultra‑robust machine‑learning models capable of stable molecular simulations at extreme temperatures

Researchers have created a new AI model that can simulate molecules under extreme conditions, allowing for reliable discoveries in fields like drug development and sustainable chemistry. The model's stability opens up new opportunities for simulations in areas where long-term accuracy is essential.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2026

Scientists identify dysregulation of RNA editing as contributor to altered fetal brain development in down syndrome

Researchers found that an extra copy of chromosome 21 leads to increased levels of the ADARB1 enzyme, causing premature and excessive RNA editing in developing brain cells. This dysregulation affects how brain cells communicate and form circuits, potentially influencing neurological and behavioral outcomes in Down syndrome.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2026

Most detailed map to date of breast tissue changes reveals role of menopause in cancer susceptibility

The study created a detailed map of breast tissue changes over time, revealing that menopause triggers significant changes that create an environment where cancer cells thrive. The research found that all types of cells decrease in number and divide less often, leading to a more inflammatory immune environment.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Aging·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 31, 2026

When the nervous system starves the brain: Autonomic dysfunction unmasked as a hidden driver of treatment-resistant depression

A study published in Brain Medicine suggests autonomic dysfunction, particularly parasympathetic and sympathetic imbalances, contributes to depressive symptoms in patients unresponsive to conventional antidepressants. Low-dose medications targeting these imbalances may offer a new approach to treatment.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalBrain Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2026

Mirror fragments intercept Alzheimer’s-causing protein

Researchers from Kobe University have designed a small mirror protein that disables amyloid-beta, a causal factor of Alzheimer's disease. The approach uses the principle of 'chirality' to bind to the protein, inhibiting its aggregation and potential for brain cell damage.

SourceKobe University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

Legged robot could accelerate resource prospecting on the Moon and the search for life on Mars

A semi-autonomous robotic explorer equipped with compact instruments can significantly speed up resource prospecting and the search for biosignatures on planetary surfaces. The robot successfully identified diverse rock types relevant to planetary exploration, including gypsum, carbonates, basalts, dunite, and anorthosite.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Space Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2026

“One Plant Health Concept” connects tradition and technology to address plant diseases in Africa

A new article proposes a comprehensive review of 'One Plant Health' management across Africa, combining indigenous local knowledge systems with modern technologies to address plant diseases and strengthen food security. The integrated approach aims to unite stakeholders through traditional techniques and modern approaches, improving di...

SourceCABI·JournalCABI Agriculture and Bioscience·DateMar 31, 2026