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Science News for March 9, 2026


Undercoordination engineering of chromium single-atom catalyst with optimized d-p hybridization for lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers developed an undercoordinated chromium single-atom catalyst that enhances sulfur electrocatalytic activity and lithium-sulfur battery performance. The unique design regulates electronic states, increasing sulfur electrocatalytic activity and achieving outstanding cycling stability and rate capability.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateMar 9, 2026

Breakthrough in eye disease treatment: Chinese scientists develop non-invasive nanodrop therapy to replace injections for corneal neovascularization

Researchers at Tsinghua University Press have developed a novel nanodrop therapy to treat corneal neovascularization, a condition where new blood vessels grow on the cornea. The therapy, which is non-invasive and can be administered via eyedrops, has shown promising results in animal models and could pave the way for clinical translation.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateMar 9, 2026

New study reveals how volcanic eruptions and internal climate cycles jointly shape Asian monsoon rainfall

A new study reveals that volcanic eruptions can trigger rainfall patterns similar to those produced by natural climate variability, effectively 'projecting' their influence onto the ocean-driven cycles. The research identifies a complex interplay between natural climate phenomena and volcanic forcing, with implications for climate inte...

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 9, 2026

NMR reveals site-specific structural signatures of therapeutic antibodies without isotope labeling

Researchers developed a novel NMR approach to analyze the structure of therapeutic antibodies without isotope labeling. The technique uses site-specific methyl signals to detect subtle structural variations, including glycosylation patterns and local flexibility. This method has significant implications for ensuring the quality of biol...

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Why ‘being squeezed’ helps breast cancer cells to thrive

A new study reveals that early breast cancer cells use intense mechanical pressure to their advantage, hijacking a sensor to multiply rapidly and migrate away from the primary tumour. The pressure also triggers a series of signals that promote aggressive behaviour in cancer cells, leaving a lasting mechanical memory.

SourceAdelaide University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Mpox immune test validated during Rwandan outbreak

Researchers developed an antibody test for Mpox that accurately identifies those with infection and vaccine-derived antibodies, helping authorities prioritize vaccine use and study disease transmission. The test, validated in Rwanda, uses only four key antibody signatures to ensure affordability and accessibility.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Researchers achieve efficient bicarbonate-mediated integrated capture and electrolysis of carbon dioxide

A team of researchers achieved efficient bicarbonate-mediated integrated carbon dioxide capture and electrolysis to produce CO, reducing energy consumption and improving process performance. The new process couples CO2 capture with electrocatalytic conversion, enabling a closed-loop cycle.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 9, 2026

AI tool streamlines drug synthesis

Researchers developed a machine-learning system that predicts how molecules form, cutting lab work time from months to days and reducing costs. The system uses asymmetric cross-coupling reactions to build complex compounds and can be applied across fields, deepening our understanding of chemistry.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

New ACP papers say health care must be more accessible and inclusive for patients and physicians with disabilities

Two new ACP papers advocate for policy changes to improve healthcare access and inclusivity for people with disabilities. The papers offer recommendations to address health disparities, promote disability-inclusive medical education, and foster a supportive workplace environment.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMar 9, 2026

Moisture powered materials could make cleaning CO₂ from air more efficient

Scientists at Arizona State University have developed new materials that can capture carbon dioxide from the air using a low-energy process called moisture-swing direct air capture (DAC). The materials, which are commercially available polymers, were found to capture more CO2 and release it faster when their pores were larger.

SourceArizona State University·JournalMaterials Today Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Turning orchard waste into climate solutions: A simple method boosts biochar carbon storage

Researchers developed a low-cost method to transform agricultural waste into high-quality biochar, increasing its ability to store carbon and combat climate change. The new method uses limewater treatment to improve biochar production, resulting in a 34% increase in carbon retention and improved soil structure and chemistry.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Study reveals ancient needles and awls served many purposes

A study by McKenna Litynski reveals that ancient needles and awls enabled humans to survive in cold climates through tailored leather clothing and provided a range of purposes beyond clothing production. The research, published in PLOS ONE, shows that needles and awls were widely used for medical suturing, fishing, tattooing, and cerem...

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalPLOS One·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 9, 2026

“Bugs delivering drugs” – researchers publish new approach to colorectal cancer treatment using common food-borne bacteria

Researchers have developed a novel approach to fight colorectal cancer using modified Listeria bacteria as a courier to deliver potent cancer-killing proteins into tumor cells. This method has shown significant anti-tumor activity and could potentially lead to the development of a safe and effective oral treatment.

SourceBaylor University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Increasing fitness leads to bigger brain boost following exercise

A new study by UCL researchers found that increasing physical fitness leads to a bigger release of brain-boosting proteins after just one session of exercise. The 12-week training program improved cognitive function and boosted brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, supporting the formation of new neurons and maintaining brai...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBrain Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

American Indian and Alaska native peoples experience higher rates of fatal police violence in and around reservations

The study found that 73% of AIAN deaths from police violence occurred on or within 10 miles of reservations, despite only 40% of AIAN people living there. The authors argue that colonial policies and inequities in policing contribute to this disproportionate risk of fatal police violence.

SourceDrexel University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2026

Genetic mapping of Baltic Sea herring important for sustainable fishing

A new study by Stockholm University researchers reveals distinct populations of Baltic Sea herring with varying levels of genetic adaptation to local conditions. The findings highlight the importance of genetic diversity in managing herring populations and suggest that current fishing practices may be detrimental to local populations.

SourceStockholm University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2026

In search of the room temperature superconductor: international team formulates research agenda

An international team of researchers calls for a coordinated effort to find room temperature superconductors, which could revolutionize technology and everyday life. The team proposes a strategy to systematically search for materials and manipulate their properties using advanced techniques.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Global physical activity remains low despite two decades of guideline updates, UTHealth Houston researchers find

Despite significant policy progress, 1 in 3 adults worldwide fail to meet the World Health Organization's physical activity guidelines, UTHealth Houston researchers discovered. The study proposes solutions for translating physical activity guidelines into action, emphasizing the need for stronger leadership and partnership networks.

Mapping 3D-super-enhancers with machine learning to pinpoint regulators of cell identity

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital developed BOUQUET to analyze 3D-enhancer architecture in machine learning-based graph theory framework, identifying protein condensates and predicting gene expression. The findings provide new insight into how cells regulate genes controlling specialized identities.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 9, 2026

Hubland Campus: a home for many wild bees

The Hubland Campus of the University of Würzburg is a rich habitat for 170 species of wild bees, with 31 species listed as endangered. Targeted measures, such as a hymenoptera garden and sustainable mowing, have created a species-rich and ecologically important environment for pollinators.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2026

New robotic microfluidic platform brings ai to lipid nanoparticle design

Engineers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed LIBRIS, an automated microfluidic platform capable of generating lipid nanoparticle formulations at high speed and scale. This enables the creation of large, systematic datasets needed to train predictive AI models, accelerating the design of lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

New Houston Methodist study shows how AI can assist clinicians in identifying high-risk patients with bloodstream infection and offer better chance of survival

Researchers used AI to analyze over 15,000 patient data and identified three major clusters of BSI patients with varying levels of severity. The study found that high-risk patients, particularly older male transplant recipients, were more susceptible to infections and had higher mortality rates.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateMar 9, 2026

People in need of disability benefits are facing new barriers – and government cuts and overhauls are to blame

The federal disability benefits system has become more difficult to navigate due to staffing reductions and administrative changes. Researchers found that 16 million people, including those in severe medical crises or on the edge of homelessness, are facing increased barriers to accessing desperately needed cash assistance. The report ...

SourceBinghamton University·TypeSurvey·DateMar 9, 2026

Students with lower self-control tend to procrastinate with short-form video; sleep suffers, but not grades, study finds

A study found that college students with lower self-control and habitual use of short-form videos experience poorer sleep health and higher stress, but not diminished academic performance. Researchers suggest that institutions of higher learning and society can help by providing holistic mental health and student health outreach services.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeSurvey·DateMar 9, 2026

A radical solution: Persistent phenoxyl chemistry accelerates antibiotic degradation

Researchers discovered that phenolic compounds transform into persistent phenoxyl radicals that act as long-lived reactive mediators, dramatically enhancing pollutant removal rates in oxidation systems. These radicals increased antibiotic degradation rates by up to twentyfold, introducing a new concept in environmental remediation.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateMar 9, 2026

The competitiveness of low-carbon fuels depends on location

A comprehensive techno-economic assessment of low-carbon fuel production technologies reveals that no single technology will dominate globally. Costs vary significantly between regions, depending on local resources and financing conditions. The analysis provides guidance on where investment may be most effective in making these technol...

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeCase study·DateMar 9, 2026

Finer-scale simulations show promise for forecasting dangerous valley storms

Researchers found that increasing weather forecasting model resolution to the kilometre scale can improve predictions of flash floods and landslides. Higher-resolution simulations accurately captured storm intensity, timing, and location, while lower-resolution models smoothed out critical wind pattern details.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 9, 2026

New strategy developed for remote dihalogenation of alkenes

A team led by Prof. CHEN Qing'an developed a phosphordiamidate-catalyzed strategy for the selective synthesis of 1,3-, 1,4-, and 2,3-dihalogenation products. The method achieves regioselective dihalogenation under mild conditions with broad substrate compatibility and functional group tolerance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 9, 2026

Atamyo Therapeutics presents promising results in the first patients treated with its ATA-200 gene therapy in the clinical trial targeting LGMD-R5 limb-girdle muscular dystrophy

The company's ATA-200 gene therapy has shown safety, pharmacodynamics, and efficacy results in the first patients treated, offering hope for children with LGMD-R5. The therapy delivers a normal copy of the γ-sarcoglycan gene and has been awarded Orphan Drug Designation in the US and Europe.

Where does northwest China's increasing moisture come from? New study points to local sources

A new study found that Northwest China's precipitation increase since the late 1990s is largely driven by local sources, including enhanced evapotranspiration. The region's humidification trend is fueled by warming temperatures, vegetation recovery, and increased meltwater from glaciers and snowpack.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 9, 2026

High-intensity interval training boosts muscle power plants

A new study shows that high-intensity interval training increases the number of mitochondria and expands the active membrane, enhancing energy production and potentially improving endurance. The findings, published in the University of Southern Denmark, also suggest that muscle mitochondria are more adaptable than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalDiabetologia·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

A novel soft biosensor with printable responsive hydrogel interfaces for detection and differentiation of blood circulation complications

A novel soft biosensor with printable responsive hydrogel interfaces was developed for precise detection and differentiation of blood circulation complications in postoperative free flaps. The biosensor achieved high adhesion and high-fidelity signal acquisition while exhibiting low adhesion after monitoring to avoid wound damage.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Study finds correlation between public health, tax policies

A new study by North Carolina State University researchers found a strong correlation between state tax revenue and public health policies during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. States with higher sales tax revenue were associated with shorter stay-at-home orders, while those without sales tax had longer durations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalContemporary Accounting Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2026

‘Sea creature’ minibot hoovers up oil spills

Engineers at RMIT University developed a remote-controlled minibot to collect oil spills using a filtering system inspired by sea urchins. The 'Electronic Dolphin' can skim slicks and collect oil with high efficiency, offering a safer and more targeted way to respond to spills in sensitive environments.

SourceRMIT University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Dual-coil magnetic guidewire robot: a new smooth steering solution for vascular interventional navigation

The dual-coil magnetic guidewire robot offers improved steering capabilities, switching between three modes for better curvature control and branch entry. The robot's design and control enable safer and more consistent procedures by reducing unintended vessel-wall interaction and enhancing access to small, tortuous, and branching targets.

Water spider and fish scale bioinspiration drives Janus air electrode for advanced zinc-air batteries

Researchers developed a bioinspired Janus air electrode with a fish-scale and waterspider-leg structure, enabling rapid substance transport and improving catalytic site utilization. The asymmetric architecture significantly enhances zinc-air battery performance, achieving high power density and specific capacity.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Exploring the feedback limits of quantum dot lasers for isolator-free photonic integrated circuits

Researchers have directly observed coherence collapse in quantum dot Fabry–Perot lasers, establishing practical design rules for isolator-free photonic integration. The lasers maintain telecom-grade performance even near the coherence collapse boundary.

Tiny vesicles, big risk: Environmental sweeteners trigger antibiotic resistance transfer

Researchers found that artificial sweeteners stimulate soil bacteria to release vesicles carrying antibiotic resistance genes, increasing resistance risk in ecosystems. The study demonstrates that increasing chemical diversity can intensify resistance dissemination through previously overlooked pathways.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateMar 9, 2026

Digital media use and child health and development

A systematic review and meta-analysis found consistent associations between digital media use and risks to child health and development, particularly social media use. The study highlights the need for multifaceted policies and interventions to mitigate potential harms from digital media exposure.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 9, 2026

Experimental observation of topological Dirac vortex mode in terahertz photonic crystal fibers

Researchers have successfully observed and verified a topological Dirac vortex mode in terahertz photonic crystal fibers, enabling ultra-broadband signal transmission with zero polarization dispersion. This breakthrough has promising applications in terahertz sensing, subwavelength-resolution imaging, and distributed quantum networks.

New study offers strong evidence of elevated heart failure risk in adults with prediabetes, hypertension and subclinical heart injury or stress

A new study finds that adults with prediabetes and hypertension who have subclinical heart injury or stress are at increased risk of heart failure. The study highlights an at-risk population that can be identified using common cardiac biomarkers and emphasizes the importance of preventive care.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 9, 2026

Researchers develop a biomimetic platform to enhance CAR T cell therapy against leukemia

Researchers developed a biomimetic platform to enhance CAR T cell therapy against leukemia by creating a molecular bridge that reinforces the interface between CAR T cells and leukemia cells. This platform, called FACE, uses ferritin to bind to CD71 on leukemia cells, improving cell recognition and elimination.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Study finds teens spend nearly one-third of the school day on smartphones, with frequent checking linked to poorer attention

A new study found that middle and high school students spend nearly one-third of the school day on their smartphones, with frequent checking linked to weaker attention and impulse control. The study also found that students who checked their phones more frequently showed poorer cognitive control, a key skill for learning and academic s...

Heart and metabolic risk factors more strongly linked to liver fibrosis in women than men, study finds

Women with cardiometabolic risk factors such as type 2 diabetes and high waist circumference face a higher risk of liver fibrosis, with rates increasing 11-fold and 2.8-fold compared to men. The study highlights the importance of managing these risk factors for liver health beyond heart disease prevention.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2026

Maternal acetaminophen use and child neurodevelopment

A study in Taiwan found a positive association between maternal prenatal acetaminophen use and increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in offspring. However, associations were not observed in sibling-matched analyses, suggesting unaddressed sources of bias.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 9, 2026

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal highlights gut–brain axis in pituitary tumor–related cognitive decline

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are associated with cognitive decline, which may be linked to hormonal dysregulation and gut microbiota alterations. Surgical intervention improves cognitive function, suggesting a potential endocrine mechanism underlying cognitive dysfunction and recovery.

SourceChinese Neurosurgical Journal·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2026

Single-cell atlas reveals why rotator cuff injuries heal with damaging scars

Researchers discovered that tendon stem cells and progenitor cells fail to differentiate into mature, functional cells, instead promoting scar buildup. Immune cells, including macrophages, also play a central role in sustaining fibrosis, creating a self-sustaining environment that is difficult to reverse.

SourceEditorial Office of West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University·JournalBone Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Increased risk of bullying in open-plan offices

A study by Linköping University found that traditional open-plan offices increase the risk of bullying, while activity-based offices show no increased risk. The researchers suggest providing private spaces and handling irritation before it escalates as key lessons for employers.

SourceLinköping University·JournalOccupational Health Science·TypeSurvey·DateMar 9, 2026

Brain activity reveals how well we mentally size up others

Researchers analyzed brain activity of over 570 people in game situations to understand adaptive mentalization, a process where we infer others' thoughts and adjust our behavior. The study found that brain activity in specific regions, including the temporoparietal cortex, predicts how well people adapt to changing opponent behavior.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026

Spring fatigue cannot be empirically proven

A study by researchers at the University of Basel and University of Bern found that spring fatigue is not a real biological phenomenon, but rather a culturally influenced concept. Participants in an online survey reported feeling more exhausted in spring, but the data showed no correlation with seasonal changes.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2026

Many patients want to talk about their faith. Neurologists often don't know how.

Patients with neurological diseases face profound questions about identity, purpose, and meaning, but neurologists often lack training and tools to address these concerns. A new paper offers practical strategies for incorporating spiritual assessment into routine neurological care.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNeurology Clinical Practice·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 9, 2026

“Peculiar” ancient ancestor of the crocodile started life on four legs in adolescence before it began walking on two

A new study reveals that the ancient reptile Sonselasuchus, a relative of the crocodile, began life on four legs before learning to walk on two. The discovery was made by analyzing the proportions of the limb skeletons of different animals, suggesting that the creature's bipedal stance may have resulted from differential growth patterns.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateMar 9, 2026

The ultra-high-energy neutrino may have begun its journey in blazars

A new study suggests that the ultra-high-energy neutrino may have originated from a population of blazars, which could provide a plausible explanation for the rare phenomenon. The researchers used a combination of simulations and observations from various instruments to test their hypothesis.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2026

Doubling of new prescriptions for ADHD medications among adults since start of COVID-19 pandemic

New prescriptions for stimulants among adults with ADHD more than doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic, with the largest increases among younger adults. The trend is driven by improved recognition and treatment of ADHD in adulthood, as well as increased access to care and virtual health services.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2026

AI disclosure labels may do more harm than good

A new study published in JCOM found that AI disclosure labels may have the opposite effect of what regulators intend, decreasing the credibility of true scientific information while increasing that of false claims. The study tested 433 participants and found a counterintuitive pattern where the same label reduces credibility in opposit...

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Science Communication·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2026