ScienceDaily: Society - March 25, 2025
Top society research news
Scientists uncover principles underlying the toxicity of 'selfish' genes
Lurking within the genomes of nearly all species--including plants, fungi, and even humans--are genes that are passed from generation to generation with no clear benefit to the organism. Called 'selfish' genes, they can sometimes be harmful or even lethal. A study sheds light on how selfish genes 'cheat' inheritance to ensure they are passed to the next generation, often at the expense of an organism's fertility.
A simple way to boost math progress
Scientists investigated whether email interventions informed by behavioral science could help teachers help students learn math.
Avoidable deaths are on the rise in the United States, yet falling in many peer nations
In most high-income countries around the world, the number of avoidable mortalities is going down. But in the United States, avoidable deaths have been on the rise for more than a decade, according to a new study by researchers who examined mortality trends across U.S. states and 40 high-income countries.
Existing tax policies during the energy transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources will lead to major energy injustices and skewed priorities, new research shows.
How the brain links related memories formed close in time
If you've ever noticed how memories from the same day seem connected while events from weeks apart feel separate, a new study reveals the reason: Our brains physically link memories that occur close in time not in the cell bodies of neurons, but rather in their spiny extensions called dendrites.
Shrinking Andean glaciers threaten water supply of 90 million people, global policy makers warn
Scientists will warn policymakers that the shrinking glaciers of the Andes threaten the water supply of 90 million people on the South American continent at the first-ever World Day for Glaciers hosted by UNESCO in Paris.
Weather emergencies affect older adults' views on climate and health
Nearly 3 out of every 4 older Americans have experienced at least one extreme weather event in the last two years, a poll finds. And living through such an event appears to make a big difference in how they view the potential impact of climate change on their health. People over 50 who recently experienced an extreme weather event are far more likely to express concern about the effects of climate change on their health.
How family background can help lead to athletic success
Americans have long believed that sports are one area in society that offers kids from all backgrounds the chance to succeed to the best of their abilities. But new research suggests that this belief is largely a myth, and that success in high school and college athletics often is influenced by race and gender, as well as socioeconomic status, including family wealth and education.
EPA regulations cut power sector emissions but miss opportunities for deeper reductions
Regulations finalized by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2024 could cut emissions from the power sector by 51% over 2022 levels, compared to only 26% without the rules, according to a new analysis. The study helps identify the likely effects of current regulations, highlights the impact of potential repeal on U.S. emissions, and quantifies the overall efficiency of emissions reductions achieved by the current rules.
Brain imaging reveals surprises about learning
By revealing for the first time what happens in the brain when an animal makes a mistake, researchers are shedding light on the holy grail of neuroscience: the mechanics of how we learn. The team pinpointed the exact moment mice learned a new skill by observing the activity of individual neurons, confirming earlier work that suggested animals are fast learners that purposely test the boundaries of new knowledge.
Why are night owls at greater risk of depression?
Mindfulness, total sleep quality, and alcohol consumption may help explain why people who stay up late have a greater risk of depression, according to a new study.
Whose air quality are we monitoring?
The EPA's network consistently failed to capture air quality in communities of color across six major pollutants. The monitors are the key data source driving decisions about pollution reduction, urban planning and public health initiatives. The data may misrepresent pollution concentrations, leaving marginalized groups at risk.
Feline therapy: Study suggests cats could fill an assistive niche
For years, therapy dogs have ruled the world of animal-assisted services (AAS), offering stress relief to college students, hospital patients, and those in need of emotional support. But research suggests that some cats might also have what it takes to join the ranks of therapy animals -- bringing their purrs, gentle headbutts, and calm demeanor to the field.
Rapid response to address critical aging aircraft issue
Scientists worked to ensure fleet safety after a large crack was unexpectedly found near the cockpit of a T-38 Talon. A new study describes how risk and damage tolerance analyses helped determine a more effective inspection schedule, allowing the Air Force to find cracks before they grow to critical size.
Kansas, Missouri farmers avoid discussing climate change regardless of opinions, study finds
Researchers conducted interviews with farmers in Missouri and Kansas about their thoughts on climate change. Even though they are on the front lines of the topic, the farmers reported they avoid discussing it, even with family, regardless of their opinions to avoid arguments, violence and damage to their livelihood. The findings show it is difficult to address the issue for policy or mitigation if those most affected do not want to discuss, researchers argue.
Mastery of language could predict longevity
A recent study has linked longevity specifically to verbal fluency, the measure of one's vocabulary and ability to use it.
When did human language emerge?
Humans' unique language capacity was present at least 135,000 years ago, according to a survey of genomic evidence. As such, language might have entered social use 100,000 years ago.
Adopting zero-emission trucks and buses could save lives, prevent asthma
Researchers used community input to design Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) air-quality model experiments. Community asked for ACT policy simulations that convert 48% of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles into zero tailpipe emission versions. Researchers simulated how this policy would change pollution levels in Illinois. They found the policy would likely prevent 500 premature deaths and 600 new pediatric asthma cases annually within the greater Chicago area.
Conservation efforts analysis reveals which actions are most helpful for endangered species status
Targeted conservation actions are essential to prevent wildlife extinctions, but more efforts are needed to fully recover biodiversity, according to a new study.
Tax sugar and salt in food to improve health?
Introducing a new salt levy is another proposal put forward in a comprehensive set of recommended regulations for the food sector.
Attention can be used to drive cooperation
Our ability to cooperate with others may be influenced by how our attention is captured and directed, as much as by how altruistic we are feeling, according to a new study.
Wolves make a rapid recovery in Europe
Wolf populations in Europe increased by nearly 60 percent in a decade, according to a new study.
Sharks are dying at alarming rates, mostly due to fishing. Retention bans may help
Nearly one-third of sharks are threatened with extinction, mostly due to fishing. While mandated releases are helpful, researchers discovered that they aren't enough to stabilize shark populations.