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Science News for September 25, 2025


An energy-efficient method to convert water pollutants into useful ammonia

A research team at Tohoku University has developed a new method to convert harmful nitrate pollutants in water into ammonia using NiCuFe-layered double hydroxide catalysts. The study achieved a Faradaic efficiency of 94.8% and demonstrated the efficacy of the process in real-world applications.

Ultrasonic-responsive phosphorescence in aqueous solution by rigid framework engineering

Researchers developed a novel method to regulate phosphorescent carbon dots by modulating the self-assembly of cyclodextrin through ultrasonic means. The resulting materials exhibit long-lived excited states, enhancing signal-to-noise ratio and tissue penetration for non-invasive imaging. Ultrasonic responsiveness is positively correla...

How to obtain atomically thin two-dimensional metal nanosheets

Atomically thin 2D metals exhibit unique properties, making them suitable for applications in electronics, electrochemistry, and catalysis. Five synthesis methods, including confinement techniques and van der Waals squeezing, are explored to fabricate 2D metals with distinct properties.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateSep 25, 2025

Superlattice blotting constructs ordered mesoporous carbon with high nickel single atom support for efficient electrocatalysis

Scientists at Nanjing University and Washington State University developed a three-dimensional ordered mesoporous carbon skeleton with Ni single atom support using superlattice blotting. The resulting Ni-N₂S₂ and Ni-N₃P catalysts exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity, reaching overpotents of 239 mV (OER) and 90 mV (HER).

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

Beyond adsorption: Dalian scientists uncover biochar’s hidden superpower—direct pollutant destruction

Researchers at Dalian University of Technology have discovered that biochar can directly degrade organic pollutants, removing up to 40% of contaminants. This breakthrough reveals biochar's hidden superpower, opening new avenues for sustainable wastewater treatment and environmental engineering.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalCarbon Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

Rice anthropologist among first to use AI to uncover new clues that early humans were prey, not predators Were early humans hunters — or hunted?

A recent study led by Rice University anthropologist Manuel Domínguez-Rodrigo challenges the long-held idea that Homo habilis was the first species to rise from being prey to predators. Using AI-powered analysis, his team discovered that early humans were still hunted by carnivores like leopards around 2 million years ago.

SourceRice University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

PSU research shows Portland transit-oriented developments reduce car trips, especially at affordable housing sites

A new study by Portland State University's Transportation Research and Education Center (TREC) reveals that transit-oriented developments (TODs) in the Portland metro area generate significantly fewer car trips than previously estimated. At affordable housing sites, car trips were reduced to only a quarter to two-fifths of expected rates.

Leading maternal health physician-scientist Andreea Creanga, MD, Ph.D., named chair of the department of epidemiology and public health at the University of Maryland School of Medicine

Dr. Andreea Creanga, a leading maternal health expert, joins the University of Maryland School of Medicine as Chair of the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health. She will oversee initiatives in bioinformatics, data science, and maternal health.

Micro-LEDs could power next-gen screens

Researchers at Texas A&M University are working to overcome manufacturing hurdles for micro-LED displays, which use inorganic materials to create more robust and longer-lasting screens. The technology has potential for applications in virtual reality, augmented reality, and flexible displays.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 25, 2025

Super-resistant bacteria found in wild birds at a rehabilitation center on the coast of São Paulo state, Brazil

Antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli clones were found in two colonized birds, a vulture and an owl, at the Santos Municipal Orchid Garden rehabilitation center. The presence of these strains in animals raises concerns about potential impact on wildlife health.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalVeterinary Research Communications·DateSep 25, 2025

New protein interaction map sheds light on how brain cell communication breaks down in Alzheimer’s disease

A new study provides a comprehensive view of how brain cells interact in Alzheimer's disease, mapping protein networks that reveal communication failures and point to new therapeutic opportunities. The researchers discovered that disruptions in glia-neuron communication are closely linked to the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 25, 2025

Exploring the therapeutic potential of TGF-β inhibitors for liver fibrosis: targeting multiple signaling pathways

TGF-β inhibition holds promise for treating liver fibrosis by targeting SMAD-dependent and -independent pathways. Various therapeutic strategies, including direct blockade, receptor inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides, and natural products from Traditional Chinese Medicine, are being explored to disrupt the TGF-β signaling pathway.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateSep 25, 2025

Psychological comorbidity in patients presenting to the emergency department with low-risk chest pain and anxiety

A new study found that low-risk chest pain patients frequently experience severe anxiety and other treatable comorbidities, such as depression and somatization. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and prescription medications are effective in managing these conditions, improving patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary ED visits.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateSep 25, 2025

Biomarker discovery for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease utilizing Mendelian randomization, machine learning, and external validation

A study discovered six causal molecular biomarkers (CNPY4, ENTPD6, HLA-A) and eight clinical biomarkers for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Serum total protein levels partially mediated the effect of HLA-A on MASLD.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateSep 25, 2025

Relationships help determine whether students report hazing, UMaine study shows

A new University of Maine study highlights the importance of student relationships and institutional contexts in reporting hazing incidents. The research found that strong connections with staff, faculty, and peers can encourage students to speak out against hazing, while fear of social isolation and lack of recognition can deter them.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalJournal of American College Health·DateSep 25, 2025

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center joins leading cancer research centers to reinforce importance of HPV vaccination to prevent cancer

The VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, along with 61 other NCI-Designated Cancer Centers, has endorsed a joint statement urging healthcare systems and the public to prioritize HPV vaccination for cancer prevention. HPV vaccination is safe and effective in preventing six types of cancers caused by HPV infection.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·TypeNews article·DateSep 25, 2025

A rapid rise of private club and travel teams in youth sports

A recent study reveals that private club and travel teams in youth sports have surged, with kids from high-educated parents and affluent backgrounds more likely to participate. The shift towards elite sports positions has led to increased costs and commitments for families, exacerbating social inequalities.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Sport and Social Issues·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2025

Turning rust into fuel: MANA advances green rust catalyst for next-gen hydrogen vehicles

Researchers from MANA develop a cost-effective, high-performance catalyst using green rust to support the use of sodium borohydride as a hydrogen storage material. The new catalyst achieves comparable performance to precious metal-based materials and shows excellent durability.

Major study reveals stark inequalities in children’s in-school physical activity across English Primary Schools

A large-scale study of over 17,000 pupils and 2,300 teachers found dramatic differences in physical activity levels across England, with some schools achieving double or triple the levels of others. The research highlights growing evidence that children in deprived areas face bigger barriers to physical activity, even during school hours.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateSep 25, 2025

New genetic model reveals calcium-induced calcium release is dispensable for skeletal muscle contraction

A genetically engineered mouse model shows RyR1-mediated calcium-induced calcium release plays a minimal role in normal skeletal muscle contraction, but is crucial in life-threatening muscle disorders. The study confirms depolarization-induced calcium release as the main driver of muscle contraction.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

Tiny treatment system helps fight back against neuroinflammation in the brain

A new study published in Biomaterials has developed a tiny, bioengineered system to deliver anti-inflammatory proteins to specific targets in the brain. The AstroCapsules, which are 300 micrometers in diameter, were confirmed to function when implanted into the brain and reduced neuroinflammation by measuring inflammatory biomarkers.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

“Why can’t we all just get along?” Study reveals how mice and AI learn to cooperate

Researchers found that mice and AI agents developed similar behavioral strategies and neural representations when coordinating their actions, suggesting fundamental principles of cooperation transcend biology and technology. Mice learned to coordinate actions through three key behaviors: approaching partners' sides, waiting for arrival...

Adapting to a seasonal diet

A year-long study on Japanese macaques found that their gut microbiome composition and fermentative ability adjust seasonally to improve digestive efficiency. The study reveals that mature leaf consumption boosts the fermentative ability of the gut microbiome, helping monkeys handle chemically defended foods during harsh winters.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2025

New integrated method boosts accuracy of blood near-infrared spectroscopy quantitative analysis

Researchers developed an integrated method to accurately measure hemoglobin levels using near-infrared spectroscopy, overcoming limitations caused by strong water absorption and sample scattering. The approach significantly reduced background noise and achieved high accuracy, making it a reliable tool for non-invasive blood analysis.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalBiomedical Signal Processing and Control·DateSep 25, 2025

High-symmetry gradient-doped Nd:YAG crystal enhances dual-end pumped laser performance

Researchers developed a high-symmetry gradient-doped Nd:YAG laser crystal that reduces temperature differences between the center and ends, resulting in higher output power and improved beam quality. The crystal showed a 14 W output with efficiency boosted by more than half, making it suitable for dual-end pumping configurations.

New unmanned submersible developed to collect typhoon data and improve forecasting

The Blue Whale, an 11-meter submersible unmanned vessel, can collect comprehensive water column parameter data while eliminating risks to human life. It is designed to operate in extreme sea states and enhance disaster preparedness through accurate typhoon intensity forecasts and marine condition warnings.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeNews article·DateSep 25, 2025

Doping induces charge density wave in two-dimensional semiconductor

Scientists have observed a doping-tunable charge density wave (CDW) in single-layer semiconductor Chromium(III) selenide. The CDW phenomenon is extended to semiconductors, allowing for reversible tuning via surface charge transfer doping. This discovery provides insights into emergent orders in quantum materials and potential device ap...

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

Study finds two forms of ketamine therapy can reduce symptom severity in patients with treatment-resistant depression

A new study led by Mass General Brigham investigators compared the effects of repeated intravenous (IV) ketamine and intranasal (IN) esketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression, revealing both treatments reduced symptoms but IV ketamine showed greater improvements.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2025

Group creates tool to predict whether multiple sclerosis medication will be effective for patients

Researchers have developed a tool that can predict how patients with multiple sclerosis will respond to natalizumab treatment, allowing for targeted treatments with fewer side effects. The tool uses high-content imaging and machine learning to analyze cell morphology and identify individuals who are unlikely to respond to the medication.

Olfactory dysfunction after SARS-CoV-2 infection

A cohort study investigated olfactory dysfunction in US adults with and without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found a significant association between prior infection and persistent olfactory dysfunction. High variability was observed among individuals, highlighting the need for individualized assessment and treatment strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 25, 2025

UPF researchers design a new experimental screening system to identify peptides with therapeutic potential

Scientists develop novel experimental screening method to identify highly selective peptides with high therapeutic potential, enabling precise recognition of proteins involved in cancer and diabetes. The technique uses biologically- and chemically-modified bacteriophages to screen up to 1 billion peptides simultaneously.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

Unfolded Protein Response pathway offers new targets to treat bone weakness in cancer patients

Researchers identify three primary UPR pathways and their downstream cascades, which play a crucial role in the differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Targeting these pathways with emerging drugs may alleviate bone-related events and kill tumors localized in bones.

SourceEditorial Office of West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University·JournalBone Research·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 25, 2025

Digital reconstruction reveals Yunxian 2 crania as early member of Homo longi

The Yunxian 2 cranium, dated to nearly one million years ago, exhibits a mix of primitive traits from earlier humans and more derived features shared with Homo longi and Homo sapiens. This suggests that the Yunxian group may represent a transitional form, capturing an early phase of rapid diversification within these lineages.

Successful development of multifunctional liquid metal nanocomposites for cancer photoimmunotherapy

The research team developed multifunctional nanocomposites that demonstrate excellent tumor-targeting capability through the EPR effect. Irradiation with near-infrared laser light achieved multidimensional therapeutic effects, including complete elimination of transplanted mouse cancers within 5 days.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Composites and Hybrid Materials·DateSep 25, 2025

Oxidative depolymerization of lignin enhanced by synergy of polyoxometalate and acetic acid

Researchers developed a catalytic system for efficient lignin depolymerization under low oxygen pressure, utilizing the synergistic effect between H3PMo12O40 and acetic acid. The system achieved over 20 wt% yield of carbonyl-containing aromatics with reduced energy barrier and prevented condensation side reactions.

Why did Neanderthals go to the beach?

The study of Neanderthal footprints offers a unique window into everyday behaviour, providing insight into their physical presence, locomotion strategies, diet and social structure. The research suggests that Neanderthals were more versatile and ecologically adapted to coastal environments than previously believed.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 25, 2025

Cyclones increase risk of death for children under five

A new study estimates that tropical cyclones cause the death of 850,000 children under five from 2000 to 2020. The research found a significant link between cyclone exposure and child mortality, emphasizing the urgent need for disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2025

Solar-powered system produces green hydrogen directly from air moisture

A team of researchers developed a self-sustaining solar-powered system that produces green hydrogen by coupling photothermal atmospheric water harvesting with proton exchange membrane electrolysis. The system maintains stable performance even under low humidity conditions, reaching a hydrogen production rate of nearly 300 mL per hour.

FHBDSR-Net: AI tool enables accurate measurement of diseased spikelet rate of wheat Fusarium Head Blight from phone images, aiding smart phenotyping

FHBDSR-Net is an AI tool that accurately measures diseased spikelet rate in wheat Fusarium Head Blight from phone images, providing efficient phenotyping support for resistance breeding. The model achieves high accuracy and robustness, with excellent generalization ability and lightweight properties.

Generative framework proposed for ecological soundscape analysis

A team developed a method using generative adversarial networks (GANs) to learn underlying patterns in real spectrograms and reconstruct species-specific vocal components. This approach captures hidden features of the acoustic space, enabling precise separation of target sound sources and effective removal of environmental noise.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateSep 25, 2025

New study decodes how tumor “stress droplets” fuel resistance—and how to shut them down

A new study decodes the mechanism of glioblastoma's resistance to chemotherapy by identifying a HIF-independent circuit built around the epigenetic enzyme PRMT2. Researchers found that combining an existing orphan drug with standard chemotherapy can overcome this resistance, doubling survival without added toxicity.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

Different color-changing strategies better protect prey, depending on conditions

A global field experiment found that camouflage and warning coloration are effective antipredator strategies under different ecological conditions. The study suggests that predator competition is a key factor shaping the evolution of these strategies, with camouflage potentially being less stable than warning coloration.

Adding a lookup step makes AI better at assigning medical diagnosis codes

A new study from Mount Sinai Health System suggests that a simple tweak to how AI assigns diagnostic codes can improve accuracy and even surpass physician performance. By allowing the model to reflect and review similar past cases, researchers found better results in reducing time spent on paperwork and billing errors.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNEJM AI·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2025

Deadly pathogens found in commercial raw cat foods

A Cornell University study detected disease-causing microbes like Salmonella, Cronobacter, and E. coli in raw cat foods sold frozen, refrigerated, and freeze-dried. These pathogens can transfer from pets to humans, especially young children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

SourceCornell University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateSep 25, 2025

Large study from University Hospitals Connor Whole Health finds certain music therapy interventions may be more beneficial for pain

A large study from University Hospitals Connor Whole Health found that recreative and music-assisted relaxation/imagery interventions were 37% and 48% more likely to reduce pain intensity than receptive only interventions. Longer sessions and explicit pain management goals also contributed to increased pain reduction.

Unique pan-cancer immunotherapy destroys tumors without attacking healthy tissue, UC Irvine study shows

Researchers at UC Irvine have developed a novel immunotherapeutic approach that targets cancer-associated glycans to trigger tumor cell death. The therapy, called GlyTR, has shown safety and effectiveness in models of various cancers, including leukemia, and is expected to pave the way for targeted T-cell therapy to solid tumors.

SourceUCI Health·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2025

Tiny worms reveal big secrets about memory

Researchers have found that tiny worms can help understand how memories fade, with dopamine playing a major role. Without dopamine, the worms held onto memories longer than usual, revealing that forgetting is a finely tuned process essential for staying focused and flexible.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Neurochemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

Nutrient storage and release in uninfected cells of soybean nodules support symbiotic nitrogen fixation in infected cells

This study reveals a critical role for uninfected cells (UCs) in storing and releasing nutrients within soybean nodules, supporting symbiotic nitrogen fixation. UCs serve as a central hub for regulating N fixation by interacting with adjacent infected cells (ICs), controlling the efficiency of nitrogen fixation.

Identification of the post-transcriptional regulation reveals complexity in peanut pod development by Direct RNA

Researchers explored post-transcriptional regulation in peanut pods, identifying 14,627 newly discovered transcripts and 6,769 new genes across four developmental stages. The study found dynamic changes in polyA length and its correlation with transcript stability, as well as alternative splicing events and RNA m6A modification.

Comprehensive metagenomic survey reveals vast gut microbiome diversity and antibiotic resistome across 14 mammal species on the Tibetan Plateau

This comprehensive metagenomic survey reveals vast gut microbiome diversity, with 21,902 species-level genome bins identified. The study also uncovers a significant reservoir of previously uncharacterized microbes and identifies high-risk antibiotic resistance genes across 14 mammal species.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateSep 25, 2025

Reducing the environmental ‘paw-print’ - plant-based dog foods are better for the environment than red meat options

A recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that plant-based diets for pets have the lowest environmental impact across all measures. The study analyzed 31 commercially available dry dog foods and estimated their environmental metrics using life cycle assessment datasets. Compared to red meat options, plant-based dog foods...

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2025

Topology reveals the hidden rules of amorphous materials — Softness arises from hierarchical structures

A research team has discovered the structural origins of mechanical softness in amorphous materials like glass, attributing it to hierarchical ring structures that coexist with medium-range order and local disorder. This finding will accelerate the design of flexible and strong amorphous solids.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 25, 2025

USC researchers develop new brain imaging method to reveal hidden vascular changes with aging

Researchers at USC have developed a groundbreaking brain imaging technique that reveals how tiny blood vessels in the brain pulse with each heartbeat, which may hold clues to aging and diseases like Alzheimer's. The method shows that microvascular pulsatility increases with age, especially in deep white matter, a region critical for co...

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateSep 25, 2025

Minute witnesses from the primordial sea

Researchers at ETH Zurich discover unique natural witnesses to the primordial ocean's carbon reserves, challenging previous explanations of ice ages and complex life. The study reveals a massive decline in dissolved organic carbon between 1,000 and 541 million years ago.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateSep 25, 2025