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Science News for September 22, 2025


USTC deciphers temperature-governed processes of lithium-mars gas batteries

Researchers from USTC deciphered the temperature-governed processes of lithium-mars gas batteries, finding that temperature regulates a balance between two-electron and four-electron processes. Low temperatures cause interface passivation, while high temperatures stimulate decomposition efficiency through the generation of highly activ...

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 22, 2025

HKU researcher and collaborators detect first “heartbeat” of a newborn neutron star in distant cosmic explosion

A collaboration among HKU and Nanjing University detected millisecond pulsations hidden within a gamma-ray burst, revealing the birth of a millisecond magnetar. The findings provide the clearest evidence yet that magnetars can power some of the most luminous explosions in the universe.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2025

Missing harmonic dynamics in Generalized Snell’s Law: revealing full-channel characteristics of gradient metasurfaces

Researchers introduce a new theoretical framework that accounts for higher-order spatial harmonics in gradient metasurfaces, enabling precise control over inter-unit coupling. This allows for unprecedented harmonic-selective control in devices, with applications in ultra-dense beamforming and reconfigurable multichannel sensing.

The oldest shell jewellery workshop in Western Europe

Researchers uncover pierced shells and pigments from Châtelperronian period, indicating a genuine workshop for jewellery manufacture. The findings suggest long-distance trade networks or significant human mobility, shedding new light on cultural variability of the time.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2025

Self‑regulated bilateral anchoring enables efficient charge transport pathways for high‑performance rigid and flexible perovskite solar cells

Researchers develop one-molecule, self-regulated 'bilateral anchoring' for high-performance rigid and flexible PSCs, achieving record efficiencies while extending device lifetime under real-world stress. The innovative design enables commercial viability of squaric acid as a single-component modifier for stable PSCs on any substrate.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

Plant steroid hormones speed up grape ripening and boost berry quality

Researchers applied epibrassinolide to accelerate berry coloration, increase anthocyanin content, enhance sugar accumulation, and promote softening. The study reveals that plant steroid hormones orchestrate grape ripening through coordinated regulation of secondary metabolism, hormone cross-talk, and cell-wall dynamics.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalFood Innovation and Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

Toward objective diagnostics in depression: blood metabolomics for symptom profiling, suicide risk, and personalized psychiatry

A review explores how blood-based metabolomics can provide objective biomarkers for depressive states, suicidal ideation, and treatment responsiveness in depression. Metabolites such as 3-hydroxybutyrate and citrate have shown reproducible associations with depressive severity across multiple clinical cohorts.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalLabMed Discovery·TypeNews article·DateSep 22, 2025

Immunoblot assay shows comparable accuracy to ELISA in detecting anti-F-actin antibodies for autoimmune hepatitis type 1

A study comparing immunoblot assays and ELISA for detecting anti-F-actin antibodies in autoimmune hepatitis type 1 reveals comparable accuracy, with immunoblotting providing higher specificity. The findings suggest that immunoblot assays could be a reliable alternative to ELISA for diagnostic purposes, but larger studies are needed.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalLabMed Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

Study identifies functions to expect from interdisciplinary care teams delivering whole person substance use disorder care for pregnant people

Interdisciplinary primary care teams in Oregon's Project Nurture and Nurture Oregon model deliver comprehensive substance use disorder care to pregnant individuals. These teams perform medical, behavioral health, and coordination functions, providing social support, advocacy, and quality improvement activities.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 22, 2025

Metalloligand enabling cobalt-catalyzed anti-markovnikov hydrosilylation of alkynes with tertiary silanes

Researchers discovered a cobalt-catalyzed anti-Markovnikov hydrosilylation reaction of terminal alkynes with tertiary silanes using a dinuclear cobalt carbonyl complex coordinated by the bidentate phosphine ligand Xantphos. The catalyst achieves excellent β/α selectivity and exhibits good compatibility with functional groups.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

Tip sheet and summaries Annals of Family Medicine September/October 2025

This study found that combining Medicare wellness visits with problem-based visits increased the completion of annual wellness visits by 50.8% and reduced no-show rates by 11.9%. The combined visits also led to an increase in screenings, tests, and vaccines ordered, including for depression, falls, pain, and cancer screening.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 22, 2025

Practice-level metric provides “big-picture” look that may reduce unnecessary antibiotic use in Arkansas Medicaid PCMHs

A study analyzed antibiotic prescribing patterns in Arkansas Medicaid's patient-centered medical home (PCMH) program. The results showed a decrease in pediatric and adult age group claims, with clinics that prescribed the least antibiotics having lower rates in 2021 compared to previous years.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 22, 2025

Turning plastic waste into fuel

A University of Delaware-led research team has developed a new type of catalyst that enhances conversion of plastic waste into liquid fuels more quickly and with fewer undesired byproducts. The catalyst achieves reaction rates nearly two times faster than those previously reported, producing targeted production of liquid fuels while mi...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalChem Catalysis·DateSep 22, 2025

16-Year study indicates rising patient complexity and fewer patients seen per day in Alberta primary care

A 16-year study found increasing patient complexity and fewer patients seen by family physicians in Alberta, Canada, with notable changes including higher proportions of older adults and those with multiple chronic conditions. This trend has significant implications for primary care access and workforce planning.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 22, 2025

Deaths rose after hospitals were acquired by private equity

A nationwide study found patient death rates increased in emergency departments of U.S. hospitals acquired by private equity firms, with staffing cuts and salary reductions proposed as likely explanations. The researchers also found transfers of patients to other hospitals and shortened stays in intensive care units.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2025

Pre-visit questionnaire with EHR integration improves family history documentation and supports prevention and referrals in primary care

A pre-visit questionnaire with EHR integration significantly improved family history documentation, with 16.1% of patients having new entries within 30 days. This approach also supported personalized prevention and referrals, including screening recommendations and lifestyle advice.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 22, 2025

New study shows ongoing support helps people keep weight off after dieting

A new study published in JAMA Network Open shows that regular phone support after losing weight is crucial for maintaining weight loss. Participants who received monthly phone calls maintained an average of 8% weight loss from their starting weight, with about 60% keeping off at least 5% of their initial weight.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 22, 2025

Lipids drive activation of the cellular degradation system LC3-associated phagocytosis

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have implicated lipids in the initiation of LC3-associated phagocytosis (LAP), a specialized process for degrading dead cells and microbes. This finding opens new avenues for exploring therapeutic strategies to modulate LAP in diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

Inflammation in life-threatening malformation of infant lungs

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a deadly malformation of the lungs and diaphragm that causes underdeveloped lungs, leading to high mortality rates. Researchers discovered increased numbers of inflammatory cells in human lung tissue, both before and after birth, which may influence lung structure development.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

New eyedrop formula in sight for serious vision problems

A new eyedrop formula has shown promising results in delivering lutein, a protective antioxidant compound, to the retina to support retinal health and potentially slow or prevent damage. The formula uses nanotechnology called cubosomes to deliver drugs and has the potential to transform how we manage age-related macular degeneration.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2025

Halting COVID-related SNAP benefits left families struggling to afford food, household expenses

A new study reveals that states ending emergency SNAP benefits during the pandemic led to increased difficulty affording food and household expenses, especially for households with children. This reduction in funding threatens the health and well-being of millions of families reliant on the program.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalPreventive Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateSep 22, 2025

“We need to prepare for a growing number of West Nile virus infections,” experts warn

Climate change is allowing disease-carrying insects to spread into new areas, resulting in a growing number of West Nile virus infection cases in Europe. The virus can attack the nervous system and brain, causing symptoms like fever, headache, and malaise, with severe consequences for vulnerable individuals.

SourceElsevier·JournalEuropean Journal of Internal Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 22, 2025

Science journalists as brokers of trust

A new JCOM study reveals that science journalists act as 'knowledge brokers,' negotiating with their audiences to convey accurate information. The researchers found that public trust in science is not uniformly declining, but rather fragmented and dependent on social, political, and media contexts.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Science Communication·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2025

Mammograms may benefit women well into their 80s, UCLA study finds

A new study from the University of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences suggests that regular mammograms may still offer significant benefits for women in their 80s. The study found that screened women were more likely to have surgery to remove the tumor and had a lower risk of cancer returning and dying compared to unscreened women.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·DateSep 22, 2025

How the brain responds to bullying

Researchers found that bullying activates social and emotional brain networks, as well as autonomic threat response systems, leading to increased risk of mental and somatic health issues. Viewers with previous bullying experiences show stronger neural responses to bullied individuals, highlighting the long-term effects of bullying.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·DateSep 22, 2025

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and international partners launch GLIDE: An integrated global registry to advance IBD care

The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation has launched GLIDE, an integrated global registry to connect patient data from IBD registries worldwide. This initiative aims to accelerate insights into complex clinical questions, driving improvements in care for those living with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Spain must significantly reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from road traffic and control industrial emissions to lower tropospheric ozone levels before 2030

Scientific research indicates that Spain must significantly reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from road traffic and control industrial emissions to lower tropospheric ozone levels before 2030. Implementing measures such as maximizing renewable energy use, promoting electrification of transportation, and implementing emission controls for...

A novel electrowetting on dielectric-based palm-sized printer for fabrication of devices

Researchers developed a palm-sized, portable multimaterial printer using electrowetting on dielectric technology to print conductive and insulating liquids. The printer allows for on-site fabrication of origami devices with customizable shapes and functions, enabling site-specific sensor deployment in resource-limited environments.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

Dried fish – the hidden superfood vital for millions of women and children in Africa

A new study reveals that dried fish is an overlooked yet vital source of nutrition for millions of people across Africa, particularly for young children and women. The research found that even small portions of dried fish contribute significantly to recommended nutrient intakes for essential minerals like iron and zinc.

SourceLancaster University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2025

Enhanced magnetic second-harmonic generation in an ultra-compact plasmonic nanocavity

Researchers create subwavelength dimer-on-film nanocavities to excite magnetic dipole resonance, enabling Lorentz-force-driven second-harmonic generation with high efficiency. The approach breaks conventional design paradigms and offers a new framework for studying magnetic field-related nonlinear optical processes.

Large language models enable multi-modality integration for brain tumor diagnosis and prognosis

A research team developed a pipeline using pre-trained large language models to unify radiology and pathology reports, achieving high accuracy in tumor presence and stability. The system also predicted survival outcomes without additional training, distinguishing high-risk from low-risk groups.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalMeta-Radiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2025

How Ukraine keeps society going despite the war

A study from Linköping University reveals that Ukraine's ability to maintain public services during the war can be attributed to the collaboration between citizens and authorities. The researchers highlight the importance of trust within society in creating a robust and credible response to crises like war.

SourceLinköping University·JournalGovernment Information Quarterly·TypeSurvey·DateSep 22, 2025

New type of time crystals discovered

Researchers at TU Wien have created a new type of time crystal through the interaction of particles in a two-dimensional lattice held by laser beams. The emergence of this phenomenon challenges previous thought that quantum fluctuations could only hinder the formation of time crystals.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 22, 2025

Urinary arsenic exposure and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

This study found a significant association between arsenic exposure and MASLD in humans, with higher urinary arsenic levels increasing the risk ofMASLD. The analysis also showed that arsenic exposure persisted across key subgroups, suggesting its contribution to hepatic steatosis even at moderate exposure levels.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Translational Gastroenterology·DateSep 22, 2025

Ice dissolves iron faster than liquid water

In a new study, researchers from Umeå University found that ice at minus ten degrees Celsius releases more iron from common minerals than liquid water at four degrees Celsius. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles increase dissolution, releasing organic compounds and fuelling further chemical reactions.

SourceUmea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

Banks that identify fraudsters increase loyalty, retain more defrauded customers than others who never were compromised

According to a study by Vamsi Kanuri, banks that successfully identify fraudsters see increased customer loyalty and retention. Customers who are victimized by fraud lose trust if the bank can't identify the perpetrator, leading to a 40% increase in defection compared to those who were never defrauded. However, when the real culprit is...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateSep 22, 2025

Alcohol consumption per capita and suicide

A systematic review and meta-analysis found a strong association between alcohol consumption per capita and an increase in suicide mortality rates. The study suggests that targeting alcohol consumption may be a useful strategy for comprehensive national suicide prevention efforts.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 22, 2025

Growth switch for plant adaptability discovered

A research team at the University of Freiburg has discovered a cellular degradation machinery that acts as a switch to regulate plant hormone auxin availability. This mechanism allows plants to dynamically adjust their growth in response to environmental conditions, such as light and soil quality.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 22, 2025

Support from teachers, family and friends is crucial for students in general upper secondary education – perfectionism is associated with student burnout

Research from the University of Eastern Finland found that perfectionistic tendencies are associated with poorer well-being, particularly in students who lack support from family and friends. Conversely, ambitious students reported high engagement but struggled without adequate support.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalInternational Journal of Educational Research·DateSep 22, 2025

Hostile hoots make robins eat less at night

Research reveals that young robins reduce their nighttime activity and food intake when exposed to tawny owl calls, leading to slower energy buildup and poorer physical condition. This adaptation helps them balance the risk of predation against the need to replenish energy reserves.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateSep 22, 2025

Short-term gains, long-term pains: Study reveals stock performance of SMEs after hybrid securities issuance in KOSDAQ market

This study investigates the stock performance of SMEs after hybrid securities issuance in the KOSDAQ market. Short-term gains are followed by long-term underperformance, with exchangeable bonds showing the most significant decline. Firm-specific characteristics play a critical role in determining performance outcomes.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalChina Finance Review International·TypeNews article·DateSep 22, 2025

Severe obesity associated with reduced prevalence of recommended cancer screenings

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that individuals with severe obesity are less likely to receive recommended cancer screenings. The research analyzed data from over 2 million US adults and discovered a significant reduction in screening rates for certain types of cancer among those with a BMI of 50.0 or greater.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2025

Research shows there are no easy fixes to political hatred

A massive meta-analysis of 25 previous studies found that efforts to reduce partisan animosity are largely ineffective, with superficial interventions improving feelings towards the other party by only 5.3%. The effects are fleeting, disappearing within one week, and even repeated interventions fail to produce lasting results.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2025

Koala stress linked to disease threat

Researchers have found a clear relationship between koala stress and increased risk of disease, including Chlamydia. The study suggests that high KoRV loads may be weakening the immune system, making koalas more susceptible to diseases such as blindness and infertility.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of General Virology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2025

Beneath 300 kilometers: Natural evidence for nickel-rich alloys in the mantle

Researchers confirm nickel-rich metallic alloys in diamonds from South Africa's Voorspoed mine, revealing a 'redox-freezing' reaction between oxidized melts and reduced mantle rock. The study provides new insights into mantle dynamics and the formation of kimberlites, ocean island basalts, and volcanic magmas.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2025

Heatwaves in US rivers increasing up to four times faster than air heatwaves

Rivers are experiencing a more rapid increase in frequency, duration and intensity of heatwaves than air, with periods of abnormally high water temperatures posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems, water quality and America's food supply and energy stability. The study found significant increases observed at 82% of sites, with critical t...

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2025

U-M quantum testbed enables remote experiments

Researchers at U-M have established a quantum testbed that links two labs with optical fibers, enabling remote quantum experiments and expanding access to quantum technology development. The testbed allows for the transfer of entangled light over long distances, revolutionizing communication, computing, and scientific discovery.

Virtual care expansion did not expand specialist access in rural areas

A study found that virtual care expansion in Ontario did not lead to a significant increase in specialists' practices in rural areas. Despite the widespread availability of virtual care and changes in remuneration, the researchers discovered that specialist physicians did not expand their reach to patients living at great distances.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2025

A recipe from two eras: How conifers ward off their enemies

Researchers found that conifer resin contains a mix of ancient and recent diterpenes, which may aid in combating bark beetles. The team's genetic analysis revealed that some diterpenes originated 300 million years ago, while others developed more recently and independently in different tree species.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2025

Snapdragon secrets

Researchers collect snapdragon flowers and leaves to study their genetic diversity, revealing how color genes keep two varieties distinct. In hybrid zones, magenta and yellow snapdragons blend, but bees prefer one over the other, reducing fitness and offspring.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalMolecular Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2025