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Science News for September 29, 2025


Ultrahigh dielectric permittivity in micron-sized Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 capacitors

Researchers discovered a new paradigm for integrating hafnia-based materials into advanced memory and logic devices by eliminating a mixed tetragonal phase, resulting in an unprecedented dielectric response. The capacitor achieves a stored charge density of 183 μC cm−2 at 1.2 V/50 ns, sustaining over 10^12 cycles without breakdown.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateSep 29, 2025

Fifteen research institutions and universities join the renowned Network of Excellence “ELSA – European Lighthouse on Secure and Safe AI”

The European Lighthouse on Secure and Safe AI (ELSA) network has grown to include 41 members, expanding its expertise in pressing AI research topics and fostering knowledge exchange. The network's founding members are renowned for their work on Safety, Security, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning.

A promising strategy for solvent‑regulated selective hydrogenation of 5‑hydroxymethylfurfural over porous carbon‑supported Ni‑ZnO nanoparticles

Scientists have developed a promising strategy for the selective hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) using a porous carbon-supported Ni-ZnO nanoparticle catalyst. This breakthrough enables solvent-regulated selectivity and exceptional efficiency in producing valuable products such as BHMF and DMF.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2025

Professors Yubo Fan and Xufeng Niu’s team at Beihang University reports new progress in collagen fiber arrangement–mediated regulation of pathological calcification

Researchers at Beihang University have made new progress in understanding the relationship between collagen fiber arrangement and pathological calcification in atherosclerosis. The study found that CFA disruption is closely linked with inflammatory responses, SMC phenotype switching, osteogenic gene expression, and vascular calcificati...

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateSep 29, 2025

Gene linked to rheumatic disease controls cell movement

A recent study from Karolinska Institutet reveals how a gene associated with several rheumatic diseases affects cell movement. The researchers discovered that the DIORA1 gene regulates cell movement by interacting with MRCK kinases, which are important for the cell's skeleton and ability to move.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2025

Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative and Science for Africa Foundation launch effort to harness AI for brain health across Africa

The Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative and Science for Africa Foundation are launching an initiative to harness artificial intelligence for brain health across Africa. The collaboration aims to transform prevention, diagnosis, and care for dementia and related brain health conditions through AI-driven solutions.

SourceDavos Alzheimer's Collaborative·TypeNews article·DateSep 29, 2025

Ten-year clinical trial report finds radiation comparable to surgery for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer

A new clinical trial report finds that stereotactic radiation therapy offers long-term survival outcomes comparable to surgery for patients with small, early-stage non-small cell lung cancer. The study included a larger patient population than previously published randomized studies and followed these patients for much longer.

The relaxed birder

A new framework for flexible data collection has been developed by Masumi Hisano, allowing for counts to take place in various settings, including cities and daily routines. This approach can help increase sample size and provide valuable insights into bird species assemblage datasets linked to landscape characteristics.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025

High mechanical properties and chemical recovery: a new supramolecular elastomer synergistically enabled by boron-based dynamic bonds

Developed by Professors Yu and Gao, BNOSE exhibits excellent mechanical properties and efficient chemical recovery, breaking current bottlenecks in sustainable elastomers. Its unique boron-based dynamic bonds provide robust interchain forces and degradation in mild ethanol solvents.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2025

Tiny but mighty: Groundbreaking study reveals mosses are secret carbon heroes in subtropical forests

A groundbreaking study found that mosses, often overlooked as mere background scenery, play a crucial role in storing carbon and stabilizing soil in subtropical forests. By including bryophytes in ecosystem assessments, scientists can identify cost-effective, nature-based solutions for climate change.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalCarbon Research·TypeNews article·DateSep 29, 2025

Positive charges stabilize instantly in key solar fuel catalyst: New simulations track ultrafast polaron formation in NaTaO3.

Researchers used quantum-chemical molecular dynamics to visualize the ultrafast formation of polarons in NaTaO3, a key photocatalyst for solar water splitting. Positive hole polarons stabilize rapidly and significantly within 50 femtoseconds, while electron polarons show insignificant stabilization energy change.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2025

NRG Oncology trial results show favorable bowel health related quality of life outcomes for localized immediate risk prostate cancer treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy

The NRG-GU005 clinical study shows that SBRT significantly improves bowel health-related quality of life in patients with localized immediate risk prostate cancer. However, no significant improvement was seen for urinary HRQOL, and SBRT was not superior to IMRT in terms of distant-free survival.

MS does not worsen menopause symptoms: study

A large-scale study has found that menopause is not associated with an increased risk of disability progression in women with multiple sclerosis (MS). The research, published in JAMA Neurology, used data from the MSBase Registry and followed 987 Australian women with MS for over 14 years. The study's findings suggest that menopause may...

SourceMonash University·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025

Yale researchers develop novel test for leptospirosis

Yale researchers have developed a novel diagnostic method for detecting leptospiral virulence-modifying proteins in blood and urine, which could lead to early diagnosis and improved treatment options. The test has the potential to transform leptospirosis management globally by enabling timely treatments and mitigating disease severity.

SourceYale University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateSep 29, 2025

First randomized study comparing proton and photon radiation therapy for breast cancer finds both preserve quality of life

A phase III trial comparing proton and photon radiation therapy for breast cancer found that patients report equally strong health-related quality of life with either treatment. Patients treated with protons were more likely to say they would recommend or choose it again, but overall patient-reported outcomes were similar.

Medicaid unwinding associated with less medication treatment for opioid use disorder

A new study finds that Medicaid unwinding is associated with a decrease in medication treatment for opioid use disorder, with the greatest declines seen in states with large disenrollments. The study's findings have relevance for upcoming Medicaid cuts, which may impact access to life-saving medication for individuals battling addiction.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

Robots that spread and forget like humans: DGIST cuts driving time by 30% with physical AI

A new Physical AI technology cuts driving time for robots in logistics centers and smart factories by up to 30%, improving navigation efficiency through social behavior modeling. The tech allows robots to forget unnecessary information, share important details, and achieve more efficient cooperative navigation.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Industrial Information Integration·DateSep 29, 2025

Simultaneous synthesis of all 21 types of tRNA in vitro

Scientists have created a novel method to synthesize all 21 types of transfer RNA (tRNA) simultaneously in a test tube using the tRNA array method. This breakthrough allows for precise control over protein synthesis and has significant implications for the development of artificial molecular systems with self-reproducing capabilities.

Scientists map the navigation styles of wild cats and dogs

A University of Maryland-led study found that wild canids create and stick to specific travel routes within their territories, while felids tend to roam more freely. The research challenges traditional assumptions about animal movement and has implications for conservation and management of at-risk mammalian carnivores globally.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

Why implant flexible "grippers" in the nanospace?

The study implants flexible aliphatic grippers in confined nanocavities to enhance the cage's affinity for cyclohexane and improve its cavity efficiency. This unique approach positions the structure as a promising candidate for developing efficient host-guest partnerships.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2025

Nordic dietary guidelines associated with longer life

A new study from Aarhus University finds that following the Nordic dietary guidelines is associated with a 23% lower mortality rate among middle-aged Swedish men and women. The guidelines emphasize whole grains, legumes, fish, and low-fat dairy products, while reducing meat consumption and added sugar.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 29, 2025

Soldiers deployed to a war zone adversely affects intimate partners, long after the service member has returned home

A new study found that deployment to a combat zone can have long-lasting effects on intimate partners, including increased stress and poor relationship quality. Researchers followed a sample of U.S. Army soldiers from before deployment to eight years later, discovering a link between veterans' cognitive decline and partner stress.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPsychological Trauma Theory Research Practice and Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

Nacre-derived biphasic calcium phosphate composite scaffolds with dual osteogenic/angiogenic potential for efficient bone defect repair

Researchers developed nacre-derived biphasic calcium phosphate composite scaffolds that combine osteogenic and angiogenic functions, accelerating bone regeneration and promoting vascular growth. These 'smart scaffolds' show great promise for efficient bone defect repair and could serve as a bone graft substitute.

SourceELSP·JournalBiofunctional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2025

Hospitals with resuscitation care units save lives, shorten stays and cut costs

A new study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found that dedicated RCU's in emergency departments improved patient outcomes while reducing hospital stays and costs. The study showed that RCUs led to improved efficiency, documentation, and reimbursement for the hospital.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalWestern Journal of Emergency Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

By studying yellow warbler, researchers hope to better understand response to rapid climate change in wild species

A new research paper from Colorado State University finds that precipitation levels are the key environmental factor influencing genetic variation in the warbler's beak, which is crucial for heat retention. The study reveals that birds struggling to adapt to climate change experience higher stress levels and population declines.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2025

Cambridge scientist uncovers cunning way to double the sales of the famous Greggs Vegan Sausage Roll – and in an open letter, shares the technique with key people at Greggs

A new strategy to increase low-emission food consumption has been found effective in controlled choice experiments with 3,000 participants. The 'nudge by proxy' approach highlights consumer motivations rather than environmental impacts, significantly outperforming traditional carbon footprint labelling.

Tailored collagen binding of albumin-fused hyperactive coagulation factor IX dictates in vivo distribution and functional properties

Researchers designed long-acting human albumin-fused FIX variants with unique pharmacokinetic properties, including extended plasma half-lives and enhanced extravascular distribution. The findings endorse the use of engineered albumin-fused FIX variants as personalized therapy options for hemophilia B.

SourceUniversity of Oslo, Ullevaal University Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2025

American College of Cardiology issues scientific statement on inflammation and cardiovascular disease

The American College of Cardiology has released a scientific statement on inflammation and its connection to various cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and heart failure. The statement confirms years of research confirming the importance of inflammation as an underlying contributor to CVDs.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 29, 2025

New tool identifies proteins that control gene activity

Researchers developed a molecular tool called SCOPE that can capture proteins binding to DNA, enabling identification of protein regulators. The tool was used to discover new protein regulators of human stem cell-related genes, revealing the roles of two proteins in maintaining stem cells and one in inducing differentiation.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2025

Diversity in forest management promotes biodiversity

Researchers found that species diversity is highest in landscapes with 60% unmanaged forests and 40% intensively managed forests. Extensively managed forests contribute little to support species richness, but improving their ecological performance can help maintain forest biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025

DGIST professor Cheol Song’s research team successfully developed an optical interference sensor system for simultaneous ultra-precise force and depth measurement

The researchers successfully developed an optical interferometer-based sensor system that can simultaneously measure ultra-precise force and depth information. The sensor system uses principles of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Fabry–Pérot interferometry, enabling stable measurements even with inconsistent speed.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics·DateSep 29, 2025

Cell death in microalgae resembles that in humans

Scientists at Umea University have observed programmed cell death in microalgae, similar to humans, revealing a more ancient and widespread pathway. This discovery challenges the evolutionary origin of programmed cell death (PCD) and has potential implications for managing harmful algal blooms and improving biotechnology.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2025

Automatically disadvantaged? What benefit recipients think about the use of AI in welfare decisions

A recent study found that social benefit recipients have significant reservations about AI-supported decisions, rejecting them more frequently than non-recipients. The study also revealed that non-recipients systematically overestimate the willingness of affected individuals to trust AI.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

Steel making could get a makeover

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new method for producing iron that eliminates CO2 emissions and can be performed at room temperature. The process uses hydrogen gas plasma to strip oxygen from iron ore, producing pure iron and water vapor.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2025

QQM Checklist enhances research quality appraisal across quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods

A new tool called the QQM Checklist has been developed to address gaps in existing methods for evaluating quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies. The checklist is a concise, versatile tool that enhances rigor in assessing diverse study types and supports more transparent, evidence-based decisions.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 29, 2025

‘Alarming’ rise in newborn babies with antibiotic-resistant infections, researchers find

A study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific found that most newborn infections in Southeast Asia are caused by bacteria unlikely to respond to current treatments, highlighting the need for updated diagnostic and treatment guidelines. Locally relevant data is crucial for guiding routine medical decisions, and new a...

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) matches proton therapy in patient-reported outcomes for oropharyngeal cancer

A phase III trial finds that intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton beam therapy resulted in similar quality-of-life outcomes and low rates of side effects for people with locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer. Excellent tumor control and fewer long-term side effects were seen with both treatments.

Group-based and online lifestyle counselling helped men improve their diets – risk of type 2 diabetes was lower especially among those genetically predisposed

A study conducted at the University of Eastern Finland found that group-based and online lifestyle counselling can help middle-aged and older men adopt healthier dietary habits, leading to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Those with a high genetic risk for type 2 diabetes saw the most significant benefits from fibre-rich diets.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateSep 29, 2025

Scalable and efficient quantum error correction for fault-tolerant quantum computing

Scientists develop novel LDPC quantum error correction codes that can handle hundreds of thousands of logical qubits and approach the theoretical hashing bound. The new codes achieve extremely high decoding performance, demonstrating a frame error rate as low as 10^-4, even for large-scale numerical simulations.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·Journalnpj Quantum Information·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 29, 2025

Enhanced peroxymonosulfate activation by oxalic acid-activated lignin-derived carbon to degrade sulfamethoxazole: performance and mechanism

Researchers developed a porous carbon catalyst, OAL1-650, which achieved high removal rates (90%) and mineralization rates (79.8%) for sulfamethoxazole degradation using peroxymonosulfate activation. Oxalic acid activation increased surface area and introduced C=O functional groups, key active sites for ROS generation.

SourceGreen Chemical Engineering·JournalGreen Chemical Engineering·DateSep 29, 2025

UMass researchers help ID new mineral on Mars, providing insight on the Red Planet’s potential to have supported life

Researchers from UMass Amherst identified a unique mineral on Mars, ferric hydroxysulfate, which provides clues about the Martian environment and history. The mineral was formed at high temperatures in an acidic environment and is believed to have been created via geothermal heat.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

Wolves return: How to keep livestock safe?

A study by the University of Göttingen found that social pressure is the primary driver behind farmers' willingness to protect their livestock from wolves. Financial support, such as subsidies for electric fences, also encourages farmers to take action. However, guard dogs are not a preferred option.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPeople and Nature·TypeSurvey·DateSep 29, 2025

TTUHSC researchers find blood-brain barrier remains resilient in Alzheimer’s disease model

A study published by TTUHSC researchers found that the blood-brain barrier remains intact in a commonly used mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that drug delivery strategies may need to be redesigned. The discovery challenges long-standing assumptions about the impact of Alzheimer's on the brain's protective shield.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalFluids and Barriers of the CNS·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025

Daydreaming can lead to epiphanies, greater career purpose, WashU research finds

Research by Washington University in St. Louis found that engaging in problem-solving daydreaming can increase the potential for work-related epiphanies that transform how people view themselves. This type of mind wandering is especially useful for people who are naturally curious and feel compelled to solve problems.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Management·TypeSurvey·DateSep 29, 2025

Zoom fatigue is a thing of the past

A recent study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology has found that video meetings are not more fatiguing than in-person meetings. Researchers analyzed data from 945 meetings and found that shorter online meetings were actually less exhausting, challenging the long-held notion of 'zoom fatigue'.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalJournal of Occupational Health Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025

Misinformation/disinformation leads to US couples’ divorces, breakups

A recent survey found that misinformation and disinformation have a significant impact on romantic relationships, leading to increased conflict and tension. The study, conducted by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, suggests that divisiveness in the public sphere is contributing to the decline of couples' relationships.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNew Media & Society·TypeSurvey·DateSep 29, 2025

Cross-validation method enhances atmospheric corrections in satellite positioning

A new cross-validation method has been introduced to enhance atmospheric corrections in satellite positioning, capturing centimeter-level variations and improving positioning accuracy. Experiments show that the approach can improve accuracy by 6-29% in Europe and 9-20% in Hong Kong, while also achieving faster convergence.

Two-drug combination shows promise in helping heal chronic wounds

Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered a new treatment approach using a two-drug combination that is 10,000 times more effective than single-drug antibiotics in killing bacterial cells in lab tests. This promising method could help shorten treatment time and reduce toxicity in patients with chronic wound infections.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2025

Research discover new landslides formed since 2009 on the Moon, recognizing endogenic moonquakes rather than new impacts are the primary trigger

A recent study found that most new lunar landslides were triggered by endogenic moonquakes, rather than new impacts or thermal weathering. The research team discovered 41 new landslides in the eastern Imbrium Basin, a region with known seismic activity.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025

After schools instituted universal free meals, fewer students had high blood pressure, UW study finds

A new study by the University of Washington found that universal free meals in schools are associated with a 2.71% decrease in the proportion of students with high blood pressure. The study also showed a decrease in students' average diastolic blood pressure. Improved nutrition of school meals may have played a role in these findings.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

Japan’s national standardized health checkup program: impacts on self-employed and unemployed populations

The SHC-SHG program leads to a 16% reduction in LRDs among self-employed individuals, while unemployed individuals show significant behavioral changes but not health improvements. The increase in municipal funds is found to be cost-effective, with overall medical expenses reduced by nine times the increase.

SourceWaseda University·JournalJournal of Health Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

Simple test can predict risk of severe liver disease

A simple blood analysis can predict the risk of developing severe liver disease, enabling earlier detection and potentially improving treatment outcomes. The CORE model, developed by Karolinska Institutet researchers, is based on three routine blood tests and has been shown to be highly accurate in predicting liver disease risk.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe BMJ·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2025

Many older adults – especially Gen X women – show signs of addiction to ultra-processed foods

A study found that 21% of Gen X women and 10% of men meet criteria for ultra-processed food addiction, with a higher prevalence in older women. The study highlights the link between ultra-processed foods and risk of chronic disease and premature death, particularly among those who perceive themselves as overweight.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAddiction·TypeSurvey·DateSep 29, 2025

Patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities substantially over-represented among long-stay psychiatric inpatients

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities account for more than one in five patients who have been in Ontario's mental health beds for over a year. Enhancing specialized supports both in hospital and community settings can reduce their length of stay and admission rates.

SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025