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Science News for September 30, 2025


Increased aerobic fitness in paediatric athletes is linked to yet poorly understood abnormal cardiovascular changes

A new study found that pediatric athletes' cardiovascular systems adapt to increased fitness with abnormal changes, including increased cardiac mass, central blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and carotid intima-media thickness. These changes are not yet fully understood and may have long-term effects on cardiovascular health.

Do stranded dolphins have Alzheimer’s disease?

A study found that stranded dolphins in Florida had Alzheimer's-type neuropathology and disorientation, likely caused by chronic exposure to toxic cyanobacterial toxins. The toxins were associated with misfolded tau proteins and amyloid plaques characteristic of the disease.

SourceBrain Chemistry Labs·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

New study led by OHIO researcher reveals surprising attitudes among Ohio primary care providers toward diabetes vs. opioid use disorder treatment

A recent study found that primary care providers in Ohio perceive and treat opioid use disorder (OUD) differently from other chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes. Despite recognizing OUD as a chronic brain disease, providers were less likely to offer treatment themselves.

SourceOhio University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2025

NUS researchers develop planning framework to balance clean energy transitions with river ecosystem protection

The new framework enables decision-makers to test how different combinations of hydropower, solar, wind and energy storage affect both energy system costs and sediment delivery. Strategic optimisation can help minimize the impacts of energy transitions on natural ecosystems.

SourceNational University of Singapore College of Design and Engineering·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2025

Supercritical fluids once thought uniform found to contain liquid clusters

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology experimentally demonstrated the existence of nanometer-sized liquid clusters in supercritical fluids, overturning the prevailing notion of a single phase. These clusters persisted for up to an hour and have significant implications for industrial processes and natural environments.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalCommunications Physics·DateSep 30, 2025

NUS Medicine to receive S$2 million grant to boost infectious disease diagnostics across Asia

The NUS Medicine will receive a S$2 million grant from Novo Nordisk Foundation and Temasek Foundation to strengthen microbiology testing for severe bacterial infections across Asia. The DETECT-Asia programme aims to combat antimicrobial resistance, which is driving socio-economic inequity and claiming millions of lives globally.

Patient-reported outcome analysis of NRG Oncology trial in limited-stage small cell lung cancer suggests quality of life benefit with twice - (vs once -) daily radiation

A patient-reported outcomes analysis suggests that twice-daily radiation is associated with better quality of life and longer survival compared to once-daily radiation in patients with limited-stage small cell lung cancer. The study found less clinically meaningful decline in quality of life among those receiving twice-daily radiation.

Mapping the universe just got easier

The new emulator Effort.jl allows researchers to analyze complex data sets faster and more efficiently than ever before. It uses state-of-the-art numerical methods and clever preprocessing strategies to achieve exceptional computational performance, making it possible to explore cosmic scenarios without waiting hours for each simulation.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2025

Farm conservation is an economical path to save Colorado River water

A comprehensive study by UC Riverside's School of Public Policy found that agricultural conservation programs saved water at a low cost per acre-foot, while new supply efforts were more expensive. The analysis showed that 80% of the Colorado River's water is consumed by agriculture, and incentive programs can deliver meaningful savings.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJAWRA Journal of the American Water Resources Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2025

Feeling in control helps beat daily stress, researchers find

Researchers found that feeling in control over everyday stressors can lead to a 62% increase in resolving the issue. The relationship strengthens with age, suggesting that controlling one's sense of control can be a resource for managing daily life and impact health outcomes.

SourcePenn State·JournalCommunications Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2025

University of Miami scientists launch accessible global climate modeling framework

The new Python-based framework simplifies climate dynamics, allowing students and researchers to explore cutting-edge experiments. It features adjustable atmospheric settings and can simulate real-world influences, making it suitable for classroom exercises and advanced research.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2025

Targeting glypican-3 for liver cancer therapy

Glypican-3 is a key driver of hepatocellular carcinoma progression, facilitating metastasis and tumor microenvironment remodeling. Immunotherapy targeting GPC3 has shown preliminary safety and antitumor activity in clinical trials, with ongoing research focusing on optimized patient selection and disease monitoring.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateSep 30, 2025

Portal vein thrombosis in liver cirrhosis

Risk factors for portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in liver cirrhosis include hemodynamic disturbances, vascular endothelial injury with hypercoagulable states, severity of cirrhosis, and thrombophilic genetic factors. Early identification and timely intervention are crucial to improve prognosis.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateSep 30, 2025

ATR-FTIR spectroscopy for differentiating metaplastic breast carcinoma, ductal carcinoma in situ, and invasive ductal carcinoma

Researchers used ATR-FTIR spectroscopy to analyze tissue samples from patients with metaplastic breast carcinoma, ductal carcinoma in situ, and invasive ductal carcinoma. The study found that specific spectral features were significantly elevated in carcinomatous tissues and could effectively differentiate between normal tissue and can...

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalExploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine·DateSep 30, 2025

What helps fuel children’s ambitions to become political leaders? Their sense that they will be supported

Children's belief that family and friends will support their pursuit of political leadership predicts their expressed motivation to become leaders. Girls show stronger relationship between anticipated social support and interest in becoming leaders compared to boys. The study suggests communicating social support for girls' political a...

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology General·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

Empathy as a double-edged sword: Study reveals hidden mental health risks for youth during war

A decade-long study found that children with early-developed empathy were more likely to experience anxiety and depression during the Israel-Hamas war, highlighting the dual role of empathy in mental health. The research suggests that empathy can be both a strength and a vulnerability in the face of mass trauma.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2025

New AI tool scans social media for hidden health risks

A new AI tool called Waldo can scan social media data to discover personal reports of harmful side effects of popular health products. The tool achieved an accuracy of 99.7% in detecting adverse events, outperforming general-purpose chatbots.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Digital Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2025

Study explores use of religion and spirituality to help patients cope with stress of radiation therapy for gynecologic cancers

Researchers identified specific ways to address religion and spirituality during radiation therapy, highlighting their importance in patient coping mechanisms. The study found that nearly all patients considered spiritual history questions helpful, especially those related to coping with stress.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateSep 30, 2025

Intergovernmental platform on biodiversity issues an urgent call to stem decline of nature

The IPBES report highlights five strategies to achieve transformative change: incorporating culture and ecology into conservation efforts, integrating biodiversity concerns into economic sectors, reforming governments, shifting societal values, and promoting incremental changes. The authors emphasize the urgent need for concerted effor...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 30, 2025

Firstborn behavioral problems impact sibling relationships

A recent study published in Social Development found that firstborn behavioral problems can predict the quality of their sibling relationship over time. Maternal reflective functioning plays a crucial role in mitigating negative outcomes, particularly for children exhibiting internalizing behavioral problems. The researchers suggest th...

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalSocial Development·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2025

Inexpensive multifunctional composite paves the way to a circular economy

Researchers at Shinshu University developed a novel copper-cobalt oxide composite that excels in energy storage, environmental remediation and water splitting. The material boasts high specific capacitance, exceptional stability and numerous active catalytic sites, making it a promising low-cost alternative to conventional catalysts.

SourceShinshu University·JournalAdvanced Composites and Hybrid Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

CU Anschutz School of Medicine researchers identify new method for treating alcohol use disorder

Researchers found that tolcapone increases behavioral control in individuals with AUD by activating the prefrontal cortex, which is consistent with the drug's effects on dopamine levels. The study suggests a new mechanism for treating AUD beyond current medications that target the brain's reward system.

SourceUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·DateSep 30, 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma risk stratification for cirrhosis patients: Integrating radiomics and deep learning computed tomography signatures of the liver and spleen into a clinical model

A new clinical model integrating CT signatures predicts HCC risk more accurately than existing models, stratifying patients into high-risk and low-risk groups. The study enhances individualized surveillance and improves patient outcomes for cirrhosis patients.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateSep 30, 2025

KAIST develops semiconductor neuron that remembers and responds like the brain​

A KAIST research team has developed a Frequency Switching Neuristor that autonomously adjusts its response characteristics, like the brain's intrinsic plasticity. The device achieves 27.7% less energy consumption than conventional neural networks and can compensate for partial circuit failures to resume normal operation.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 30, 2025

The Red Sea went completely dry before being flooded by the Indian Ocean

The Red Sea experienced a massive disruption 6.2 million years ago, completely changing its marine life and transforming into a barren salt desert. The catastrophic flood from the Indian Ocean rapidly refilled the basin, restoring normal marine conditions within less than 100,000 years.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

New photodiode design solves key challenge in on-chip light monitoring

A new photodiode design using germanium-ion-implanted silicon overcomes trade-offs in existing power monitors for on-chip light monitoring, enabling faster processing speeds and higher energy efficiency. The device demonstrates high responsivity and low dark current, making it suitable for integration into photonic circuits.

Pulsed low dose rate chemoradiation therapy can significantly reduce side effects while maintaining treatment effectiveness for patients with esophageal cancer and non-small cell lung cancer

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center demonstrate that pulsed low dose rate (PLDR) chemoradiation therapy can significantly reduce severe side effects, such as painful swallowing problems, while maintaining treatment effectiveness for patients with esophageal and non-small cell lung cancer. The study's key findings show that PLDR brea...

SourceTemple University Health System·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2025

When a machine makes a mistake – how do we forgive it?

A study by Israeli researchers found that people apply mechanisms of forgiveness towards technology, similar to human relationships. Participants described their experiences with technological malfunctions in emotional terms, describing paths to forgiveness such as cost-benefit calculation, placing responsibility on humans, and accepti...

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalFrontiers in Computer Science·TypeSurvey·DateSep 30, 2025

Emerging serum biomarkers for chronic hepatitis B: Focus on serum HBV RNA and HBcrAg

Serum HBV RNA and HBcrAg have emerged as promising biomarkers for chronic hepatitis B, enabling better monitoring of disease progression, treatment response, and risk stratification. These markers provide a window into intrahepatic viral activity, correlating with clinical outcomes such as HCC development and liver fibrosis severity.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateSep 30, 2025

Major cosmetic injection survey finds safety gaps

A recent survey of 919 UK adults who received botulinum toxin injections found alarming differences in the quality of care and advice given. Despite existing requirements for qualified prescribers, many participants reported not receiving written consent forms or being informed of potential complications.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalAesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum·DateSep 30, 2025

Moffitt study shows promise for new treatment in patients with leptomeningeal disease

A phase 1B clinical trial found that combining avelumab with whole brain radiotherapy provides a safe and effective treatment option for patients with leptomeningeal disease, with 67% of patients alive three months after treatment. The study also showed an adaptive immune response to treatment, reducing levels of regulatory T cells.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNeuro-Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2025

Stowers Institute recruits renowned developmental and evolutionary biologist from HHMI’s Janelia Research Campus

David Stern, a Senior Group Leader at Janelia Research Campus, joins Stowers Institute to uncover new avenues of biology with enormous implications. His lab discovered 'bicycle proteins' that trick plants into growing protective homes for aphids, shedding light on the battle between plants and insects.

Your trust in government shapes where you get your news

Citizens' perceptions of government effectiveness play a crucial role in shaping media choices during times of conflict, according to new research. Exposure to violence alone doesn't significantly impact trust in non-regime media; instead, citizens turn to alternative sources when they believe the state has failed to protect them.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalMedia War & Conflict·TypeSurvey·DateSep 30, 2025

AI model for imaging-based extranodal extension detection and outcome prediction in HPV−positive oropharyngeal cancer

An AI model successfully automates lymph node segmentation and extranodal extension classification from pretreatment CT scans in HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma. Predicted extranodal extension is independently associated with worse oncologic outcomes, highlighting the potential for improved treatment planning.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateSep 30, 2025

Core electron bonding may not always require extreme pressure, study finds

A study by University at Buffalo researchers reveals that some elements' semicore electrons can participate in bonding under just a few gigapascals of pressure, far lower than previously thought. This finding challenges traditional notions of core electron behavior and may have implications for our understanding of planetary evolution.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJACS·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2025

Participating in cognitively stimulating activities helps optimize brain health in older adulthood

A recent study found that engaging in cognitively stimulating activities such as reading, writing, and playing games can help maintain good cognitive function in older adults. People without a family history of longevity who participated in these activities matched the same level of cognitive functioning as those with familial longevity.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNeuropsychology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2025

High-performance tin-based perovskite field-effect transistors realized by improving film morphology via bifunctional additives

Researchers developed high-quality Sn-based perovskite films using a bifunctional additive, achieving remarkable device performance with high mobility and excellent operational stability. The study provides insights into regulating tin-based perovskite crystallization and advancing the development of high-performance FETs.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

SCAI advocates for fairer policies to protect children and adults living with congenital heart disease

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions calls for Medicaid payment parity, fairer valuation of CHD procedures, and new compensation models to support care for children and adults with congenital heart disease. This policy statement aims to improve outcomes by addressing economic inequities in the healthcare system.

Uncovering EUDAL – An RNA that shields oral cancer from drug therapy

A new study discovers a previously unknown long noncoding RNA, EUDAL, that helps oral cancer cells survive chemotherapy by permanently activating the epidermal growth factor receptor. This RNA molecule blocks the cellular tagging system, allowing EGFR to remain active and promote autophagy in cancer cells.

SourceEditorial Office of West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University·JournalInternational Journal of Oral Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

Frequent wildfires, heat intensify air quality issues in American megacities such as New York City

Research from Colorado State University reveals how wildfire smoke combines with existing particulate pollution to create secondary, often more toxic, pollution and contribute to ozone formation. The study found that 90% of aerosol pollution over NYC is sensitive to at least one aspect of global changes, such as high temperatures.

SourceColorado State University·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateSep 30, 2025

RadComp Study health-related quality of life analysis shows benefit in both proton and photon radiation options in breast cancer patients

The RadComp study found that both proton and photon radiation treatment options yielded excellent health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes for women with non-metastatic breast cancer. The trial, which compared HRQOL tools, showed no significant differences between the two treatments at 6 months following treatment.

Khat-associated autoimmune hepatitis

This review synthesizes current knowledge on khat-associated autoimmune hepatitis, establishing a causal link and guiding clinical management. Khat use disrupts immune tolerance, leading to a chronic inflammatory state and the development of AIH-like phenotype in susceptible individuals.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateSep 30, 2025

Can digital health tools help younger cancer survivors better predict future health risks?

A groundbreaking study enrolls 465 AYA cancer patients to test if chatbot technology and digital education tools increase uptake of genetic counseling and improve patient outcomes. The trial aims to address longstanding gaps in genetic services for AYAs aged 18-39, who often receive care with limited access to genetic specialists.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2025

CUNY SPH Assistant Professor Phil Kreniske awarded $5 million to improve mental health and HIV care for adolescents in Uganda

A new research project, STREAMS, aims to improve mental health and antiretroviral treatment adherence among adolescents living with HIV in rural Uganda. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of a novel intervention combining mobile technology, economic empowerment, and medication support.

Acute liver failure with determinate rather than indeterminate etiology facilitates therapy and may avoid liver transplantation

A study finds that a determinate diagnosis is crucial for initiating specific therapies in acute liver failure, potentially avoiding liver transplantation. A re-evaluation of cases initially classified as indeterminate reveals new diagnoses, including viral infections and autoimmune hepatitis.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateSep 30, 2025

Study first to show if nesting heat affects sea turtle hatchling ‘IQ’

A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that heat does not significantly affect the cognitive ability of sea turtle hatchlings. However, higher incubation temperatures negatively impact their physical traits, including shorter incubation durations, lower hatching success, and more frequent scute anomalies. The stud...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalEndangered Species Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2025

Popular type of yoga linked to higher rates of falls among older Australians, study shows

A major study from the University of Sydney has found that Iyengar yoga-based exercise programs increased falls among older people by 33% compared to seated relaxation yoga. The research suggests that yoga may not be an effective fall prevention strategy, particularly if taught online.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalThe Lancet Healthy Longevity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2025

NUS Nursing and Lions Befrienders launch Singapore’s first large-scale intergenerational community dance programme to help seniors age well

The Singapore government has launched a nationwide initiative to help seniors age well through dance, combining movement, rhythm, and storytelling. The program, co-developed by NUS Nursing and Lions Befrienders, benefits over 280 seniors with improved physical health, cognition, and emotional well-being.

Reimagining waste as a resource: Scientists in Saarland transform polystyrene into nylon precursors

Researchers at Saarland University have developed a process that transforms hard-to-recycle polystyrene into a sought-after feedstock for high-quality technical and high-performance polymers. This 'biological upcycling' enables the production of nylon precursors, offering a clear advantage over conventional recycling.

SourceSaarland University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

Out-of-this-world ice geysers

New supercomputer simulations from the Texas Advanced Computing Center have found improved estimates of ice mass Enceladus is losing to space. The findings help with understanding and future robotic exploration of what's below the surface of the icy moon, which might harbor life.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2025

MUSC study could help lead to personalized TMS for smokers who want to quit

A new MUSC study found that machine learning can analyze brain activity images to identify smokers most likely to benefit from targeted rTMS sessions, leading to improved effectiveness and reduced side effects. The research uses functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans to detect changes in blood flow and measure brain activity.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateSep 30, 2025

Nature weaves a 3D tapestry, giving butterfly its green wings

Researchers discovered a new stage of development during butterfly wing scale growth, finding gyroid structures resemble braids or ropes before becoming smooth. This discovery challenges the previous assumption and offers insights into how complex network-like structures form in butterflies and insects.

SourceMurdoch University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2025

Retraining after a lapse in endurance exercise adds to muscle gains, study finds

A new study found that mice who stopped exercising for four weeks and then retrained showed greater muscle mass gains compared to those who exercised continuously. The researchers discovered that the second bout of exercise activated genes involved in mitochondrial function, leading to increased muscle growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAJP Cell Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

PLOS announces a new publishing agreement in India

The Public Library of Science (PLOS) has partnered with the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in India, allowing MAHE researchers to publish unlimited in all PLOS journals through 2026. This agreement shifts publishing costs from authors to research institutions, promoting open access and barrier-free publishing.

SourcePLOS·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2025

Biologic drug reduces symptoms, hospitalization for severe pulmonary hypertension after diagnosis

A phase 3 clinical trial found that sotatercept significantly reduces the likelihood of worsening disease in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension when added to standard treatment within the first year after diagnosis. The medication reduced the risk of deterioration by 76% and hospitalizations by nearly half.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2025

Mix insect, plant, and cultivated proteins for healthier, greener, tastier food, say experts

Researchers reveal how hybrid foods combining proteins from different sources could be part of the solution to reduce industrial animal use. By using combinations of different proteins, they found that hybrids can overcome many limitations of individual protein sources and create products that are more than the sum of their parts.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Science·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 30, 2025

Immune cell ‘signatures’ could help guide treatment for critically ill patients

Researchers developed a collection of blood tests that assess genetic activity patterns in immune cells to reveal patient immune states. These tests could help physicians determine diagnosis and care protocols for patients with suspected infections or critical conditions, providing more accurate diagnoses and treatment guidance.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025

The insomnia trade-off

A study found that longer commutes and smaller living spaces are associated with poor sleep health among Tokyo residents. Housing choices that balance location and size may help improve sleep health, according to researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2025