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Science News for September 16, 2025


Reconsidering the cosmological constant

Researchers Josh Frieman and Anowar Shajib found that physics-based models for evolving dark energy better explain current data than the standard model. The data suggests that dark energy density has decreased by about 10% over the last several billion years, changing the cosmic expansion history.

Prescribed opioid pain medications during pregnancy likely aren’t associated with increased risk of autism, ADHD

A Swedish study of over 1.2 million children found no significant association between prenatal exposure to opioids and increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The researchers attributed the observed differences in ASD rates among exposed versus unexposed children to other pre...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2025

Semaglutide provides powerful protection against diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults, Greek study suggests

A new study published in Pharmaceutics found that semaglutide provides powerful protection against diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can lead to sight loss. The study suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists enhance retinal cells' defences against damage in diabetes-like conditions.

Precision targeting of the centromedian nucleus in drug-resistant epilepsy highlighted in brain network disorders

Researchers developed new methods to accurately target the centromedian nucleus for deep brain stimulation in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Advanced imaging techniques, such as high-resolution MRI and DTI tractography, improve targeting accuracy by identifying specific brain pathways and neural firing patterns.

SourceBrain Network Disorders Editorial Office·JournalBrain Network Disorders·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 16, 2025

Older brothers close in age reduce their sisters’ chances of survival

Researchers found that having more older brothers close in age reduces the chances of survival for girls, whereas having more older sisters close in age has a positive effect on both girls and boys. This study highlights the importance of considering sex-specific effects when studying the impact of siblings on human survival.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2025

Mapping the Universe, faster and with the same accuracy

Researchers have developed an emulator called Effort.jl that mimics the behavior of large-scale structure models, allowing for fast analysis on standard laptops. The new model delivers similar accuracy as the original, enabling scientists to analyze upcoming data releases from experiments like DESI and Euclid.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2025

Harnessing non-matched illumination for dark-field-like contrast in live-cell imaging

Researchers developed DF-FPDT to address low-frequency loss from non-matched illumination in live-cell imaging, enabling high-resolution and high-contrast 3D reconstructions. This breakthrough technique leverages non-matched illumination to enhance structural details without additional hardware or post-processing.

Loss of key male fertility gene leads to changes in expression of hundreds of other genes

A new study conducted at the University of Hawaiʻi has shown that the loss of a key male fertility gene leads to infertility and changes in the expression of hundreds of other important genes. The researchers found that sperm precursor cells are dying prematurely, and sperm have DNA that is not properly condensed.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

Orforglipron taken orally once daily leads to significant body weight loss (ATTAIN-1 Study)

A phase 3 trial of once-daily orforglipron found substantial weight loss in people with obesity but not type 2 diabetes. The medication improved cardiometabolic levels and was associated with significant reductions in body weight, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, triglyceride levels, and non-HDL cholesterol.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Diabetes·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 16, 2025

Groundbreaking AI aims to speed lifesaving therapies

A new open-source AI tool, ProRNA3D-single, has significantly increased accuracy in predicting and visualizing protein-RNA complex structures. This method can generate finely detailed images of molecules in 3D, enabling drug developers to design treatments by analyzing where viruses attach to human proteins.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalCell Systems·DateSep 16, 2025

Justice is being lost in translation – Surrey researchers build AI to fix this problem

Researchers developed a custom speech recognition system trained on Supreme Court hearings, reducing transcription errors by up to 9% compared to leading commercial tools. The AI tool semantically matches paragraphs with timestamps, allowing users to scroll through judgements and instantly watch relevant exchanges from the hearing.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalApplied Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2025

Cybersecurity training programs don’t prevent employees from falling for phishing scams

A recent study found that cybersecurity training programs do little to prevent employees from falling for phishing scams. Researchers sent 10 different phishing email campaigns to over 19,500 employees at UC San Diego Health and found that embedded phishing training only reduced the likelihood of clicking on a phishing link by 2%. As t...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 16, 2025

A new way to produce ammonia more efficiently

A new way to produce ammonia more efficiently has been discovered by boosting its production using low-temperature plasma. This method could create ammonia in smaller facilities closer to where it is needed, making it safer and easier to transport, and potentially leading to a transformative change in energy storage and transportation.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateSep 16, 2025

IU researchers find that opioid pain meds prescribed during pregnancy do not cause increased risk of autism or ADHD

A comprehensive study suggests that mild to moderate use of prescribed opioid pain medications during pregnancy does not increase the risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The study found that other factors, such as parental age and psychiatric conditions, may explain th...

SourceIndiana University·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2025

New study sheds light on impact of stress on baby lizards

A Bangor University study found that stressed baby lizards grow more slowly and behave differently, but surprisingly, these offspring are also more social. The research suggests maternal stress has long-lasting effects on lizard social behavior, overriding the influence of social environment after birth.

SourceBangor University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

U of I researchers trace genetic code’s origins to early protein structures

A recent study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign sheds new light on the origin and evolution of the genetic code, providing valuable insights for genetic engineering and bioinformatics. The research team found that the genetic code's origins are mysteriously linked to the dipeptide composition of a proteome, with dipepti...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2025

AI hardware reimagined for lower energy use

A new chip architecture called Double Duty has been developed to make AI-powered computing more efficient and less energy-intensive. This innovation allows for reduced space needed for specific AI tasks by over 20% and improved overall performance on a large suite of circuits by nearly 10%.

Circular RNA-encoded protein SCAP-129aa drives platinum resistance in triple-negative breast cancer, new study from Sun Yat-Sen University finds

A new study from Sun Yat-Sen University identifies a critical molecular driver underlying platinum resistance in triple-negative breast cancer. The research team found that the circular RNA-encoded protein SCAP-129aa directly mediates platinum resistance by stabilizing PIK3R2 protein levels.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

UCalgary researchers show brain shunts significantly benefit older adults with hydrocephalus

A groundbreaking trial published in New England Journal of Medicine demonstrates the benefits of surgical treatment with a shunt for idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH) in older adults. Eighty percent of participants showed significant clinical improvement, including improved walking speed and balance.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 16, 2025

Brain organoids could unlock energy-efficient AI

The team will study neurons within a brain organoid, a millimeter-sized, three-dimensional structure grown in the lab from adult stem cells, to design smarter and more sustainable artificial intelligence. They aim to replicate complex computations that occur in the human brain to improve AI efficiency.

Stem cells repair mouse brains post-stroke

Stem cell transplantation has been shown to reverse stroke damage in mice by regenerating neurons and restoring motor functions. The treatment also improved blood-brain barrier integrity, reduced inflammation, and promoted new blood vessel formation.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

Chapman University research reveals tropical rainforest soils may fuel climate change as the Earth warms – Accelerating global warming

A new study reveals that tropical forest soils may release enormous amounts of CO2 as they warm, potentially amplifying global warming. The research found that soil respiration increased by 42–204% in experimentally warmed plots, marking one of the largest CO2 release rates ever recorded.

SourceChapman University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

Wheat: Extreme dwarfism impairs gluten composition and baking quality

A recent study by Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich shows that extremely dwarf wheat has a less favorable gluten composition than semi-dwarf or tall wild-type wheat. This can lead to poorer baking properties. Environmental conditions also play a significant role in shaping gluten composition.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalFood Science & Nutrition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

Better understanding of bitter taste receptors: An AlphaFold3-based structure study

Researchers used AlphaFold3 to predict the structure of human bitter taste receptors, achieving higher accuracy than previous models. The study found similarities and differences in the structures of T2Rs, shedding light on their function and potential role in health and pharmaceutical research.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Research in Food Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 2025

Preventing corruption in the lymph nodes

Research by Angela Riedel and team identified fibroblastic reticulum cells as main players in reprogramming lymph nodes, corrupting monocytes and blocking T cell activity. Targeted TLR4 blockade combined with PD1 immunotherapy can restore T-cell activity and reduce distant metastasis.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

Room-temperature terahertz device opens door to 6G networks

Researchers at Nagoya University have successfully developed a resonant tunnel diode that operates at room temperature using Group IV semiconductor materials. This breakthrough paves the way for terahertz wireless components that can deliver unprecedented speed and data handling capacity with superior energy efficiency.

SourceNagoya University·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

How pre- and post-monsoon information can shape cyclone preparedness in the Bay of Bengal

Researchers found significant differences in oceanic conditions between pre- and post-monsoon tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal. The study highlights the importance of seasonality in cyclone intensity and the ocean's response, with potential applications for predicting cyclone impacts and developing early warning tools.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2025

Leading cancer societies update clinical guideline on post-mastectomy radiation therapy

The American Society for Radiation Oncology, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and Society of Surgical Oncology jointly published a guideline outlining when post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) is appropriate based on new evidence. PMRT reduces cancer recurrence risk in patients with node-positive disease or high-risk features.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 16, 2025

What is European?

Professor Dag Nikolaus Hasse argues that Europe's 'essence' is often misunderstood, with a focus on Western-centric views. He proposes broadening perspectives to acknowledge the contributions of non-Western cultures, such as Safavid Iran and ancient Greece.

Sustainable, plant-based diet benefits both human and planetary health

A diet rich in wholegrains, fruits, and vegetables while limiting red meat and sugary drinks may help prevent type 2 diabetes and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Higher adherence to this planetary health diet was associated with a 32% lower incidence of type 2 diabetes and 18% lower greenhouse emissions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2025

Transition/rare earth metal co-modified SiC for low-frequency and high-temperature electromagnetic response

A new SiC-based composite achieves impressive electromagnetic wave absorption performance in both low-frequency and high-temperature applications. The composite's excellent thermal stability is attributed to the good properties of its components, including a porous structure promoting multiple reflections and scattering.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateSep 16, 2025

Patients in the world’s least developed countries three times more likely to die after abdominal trauma surgery

A study published in The Lancet Global Health reveals stark global inequalities in survival after emergency abdominal surgery for traumatic injuries. Patients in the world's least developed countries are more than three times likely to die within 30 days of surgery compared to those in the most developed nations.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateSep 16, 2025

Holocaust testimony is AI litmus test, and it fails

A Cornell historian warns that AI's inability to capture the emotional and moral complexity behind witness testimony risks reshaping how history is recorded. Human historians possess irreplaceable abilities in recognizing and conveying human suffering, particularly in preserving fracture, silence, and ethical weight.

SourceCornell University·JournalRethinking History·DateSep 16, 2025

First Ab initio calculation of hexacontatetrapole E6 transition in 53FE isomer

Researchers performed the first ab initio calculation of the hexacontatetrapole E6 transition in 53Fe, revealing unique high-multipole gamma decay mechanism using bare nucleon charges. The study successfully reproduces experimental excitation spectrum and provides reliable predictions for electromagnetic transitions.

SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 2025

When politics drives entrepreneurial innovation

A new WSU study found that in India's Great Indian Demonetization, political identity played a significant role in shaping entrepreneurial responses. Lower-income entrepreneurs often adopted out of necessity, while those aligned with the ruling party quickly embraced digital payments due to perceived credibility and consistency with th...

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Business Venturing Insights·TypeCase study·DateSep 16, 2025

AI-powered CRISPR could lead to faster gene therapies, Stanford Medicine study finds

Researchers at Stanford Medicine have created an AI-powered CRISPR tool called CRISPR-GPT, which helps scientists design and analyze gene-editing experiments. The technology aims to produce lifesaving drugs faster and expand access to gene editing for a wider range of scientists, including those with limited experience.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 2025

Shared genetic mechanisms underpin social life in bees and humans

A recent study found that genetic variants associated with social behavior in honey bees are also linked to social behavior in humans. Researchers used genome sequencing, brain gene expression analysis, and behavioral observations to investigate the genetic mechanisms underpinning variation in social behavior in western honey bees.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2025

Stem cell transplant for stroke leads to brain cell growth and functional recovery in mice

A study led by Keck School of Medicine of USC found that a stem cell transplant performed one week after an ischemic stroke in mice led to significant brain cell growth and functional recovery. The treated mice showed improved fine motor skills, gait, and reduced inflammation compared to untreated mice.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2025

Integrated metabolic analysis reveals cancer's energy secrets

A novel method combining biological experiments and information science techniques reveals cancer cells' preference for aerobic glycolysis despite sufficient oxygen availability. This research provides a powerful tool for identifying metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer cells, which could lead to more effective treatments.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalMetabolic Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 2025

Scientists create a mathematical model that explains esophageal motility disorders

Researchers developed a mathematical model that replicates the muscle movements of the esophagus during swallowing and reveals insights into esophageal motility disorders. The model includes signaling from the brain and nerves, as well as muscle contractions and relaxations, and can simulate various disorders.

SourceKyushu University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 2025

High-status producers have the support to radically shift their artists’ image, while mid-status producers follow trends

A new study published in Strategic Management Journal explores how entertainment agencies affect K-pop idol groups' concept categories. Researchers found that high-status producers are more likely to experiment with radical changes, while mid-status producers tend to follow market trends.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2025

Why some social media sites are linked to risky sexual behavior in young teens

A new study from Ohio State University found that middle-schoolers who use primarily informational social media sites are less likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors. In contrast, interactive sites like Snapchat and Facebook were linked to lower ability to refuse sex and negotiate condom use. Informative sites like YouTube and TikT...

SourceOhio State University·JournalHealth Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2025

Ancient crop discovered in the Canary Islands thanks to archaeological DNA

Researchers at Linköping University and the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria have discovered that lentils grown in the Canary Islands have a 2,000-year history, with genetic analysis revealing they originated from North African varieties brought by indigenous people. The study suggests these well-adapted lentil varieties may be...

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateSep 16, 2025

Indra's internet

A study explores how Buddhist philosophy can enhance psychotherapy in the context of digital mental health. The findings focus on three key lenses: networked dynamics, reciprocity, and cognitive flexibility. These lenses frame experience as relational and evolving, highlighting the importance of overlooked connections and incidental en...

SourceKyoto University·TypeCase study·DateSep 16, 2025

For the first time, scientists have access to a comprehensive data set for identifying unknown compounds – thanks to experts at IOCB Prague

Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a comprehensive data set called MSⁿLib, which contains millions of records on small molecules. This opens up new possibilities for faster drug discovery, environmental monitoring, and advances in artificial intelligence.

Kids less likely to be expelled from preschool when parents cooperate with teacher, study shows

A new study published in Prevention Science found that preschool children who are expelled from their classrooms often experience academic failure and enter the 'cradle-to-prison pipeline.' However, the study also showed that a collaborative parent-teacher relationship may help reduce the number of preschool expulsions. By fostering bi...

Even black holes have bad hair days

The Event Horizon Telescope collaboration unveils dynamic environment with changing polarization patterns near M87*'s supermassive black hole. The new images show how the environment around the black hole may be changing more than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2025

New research suggests integrating behavioral health services in pediatric primary care can reduce symptoms

New research suggests that integrating behavioral health services in pediatric primary care can lead to improved mental health outcomes for children and adolescents. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found that children who received integrated behavioral health care reported fewer behavioral health symptoms over time.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 16, 2025

If every home and personal vehicle went electric in the U.S., power outages could spike — unless key measures are taken

A new study by Purdue University engineers warns that a nationwide switch to electric homes and vehicles could overwhelm the power supply, leading to increased risk of outages. However, key measures such as home insulation, equipment efficiency, and coordinated device operation can reduce costs by up to 40%.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCell Reports Sustainability·DateSep 16, 2025

Study isolates population aging as primary driver of musculoskeletal disorders

A new study reveals that population aging is the largest contributor to musculoskeletal disorders globally, accounting for approximately one third of countries and territories. The research highlights the need for targeted public health strategies and healthcare resource allocation to alleviate the burden of these disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2025