ERC Proof of Concept Grant for innovation in low-temperature microscopy
A €150,000 ERC Proof of Concept Grant will help physicist Daqing Wang integrate his
Science News Archive 2026
Page 18 of 55
Grand Finale of 2025 HKU International Techno‑Entrepreneurship Challenge concludes with strong global participation as top 20 global teams showcase the power of world‑leading innovation
The 2025 HKU International Techno‑Entrepreneurship Challenge concluded with 20 finalist teams advancing to compete for top honours. Medical technology emerged as a clear highlight, with projects focusing on innovative solutions for various sectors.
Electroencephalography enables continuous decoding of hand motion angles in polar coordinates
A new circular motion paradigm enables continuous decoding of hand motion angles using EEG signals and polar coordinates. The experiment showed excellent performance across six deep learning models, with the best model achieving a mean squared error of 1.012 rad².
Heatwaves could put millions of European cattle at risk by mid-century
The study maps where and how millions of animals may be affected by heat stress in Europe. Regional differences were found, with southern European countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, and Romania likely to face significant impacts.
The PROTECT, META-SENSE and LANTERN research projects at the Politecnico di Milano each win an ERC Proof of Concept award
The PROTECT project develops a platform to assess drug toxicity in pregnancy using 3D bioprinted human foetal tissue. The META-SENSE project creates a compact nanosensor to detect PFAS, while the LANTERN project aims to improve microchip nanofabrication.
ABATaRs, sensitive molecular probes for multiplexed bio-imaging in live cells
Researchers have developed molecular probes called ABATaRs to detect biomolecules using standard Raman microscopes. These new sensors can detect biomolecules at low micromolar concentrations and function as ratiometric sensors, allowing for simultaneous detection of multiple molecules in live cells.
Heatwaves are reshaping the behavior of Western Australia's western ringtail possum
A new study reveals that Western Australia's critically endangered western ringtail possum is severely impacted by extreme heatwaves, with nocturnal activity declining by up to 43% in males. The findings highlight the need for conservation efforts to protect cooling habitats and account for behavioral stress in climate-risk planning.
deepBlastoid: A deep learning model for automated and efficient evaluation of human blastoids
A deep learning model called deepBlastoid has been developed to evaluate human blastoids with high accuracy and speed. The model achieves an accuracy of up to 87% and processes 273.6 images per second, significantly reducing the manual labor burden on researchers.
Training the next generation of translational virologists: Reflections from the 2025 Global Virus Network Short Course
The Global Virus Network's 2025 Short Course in Translational Virology brought together over 40 participants from 24 countries to learn about translating bench discoveries into the clinic and shaping public health. Participants gained hands-on experience with data-driven virology, genomic analysis, and clinical decision systems.
Arctic seas are getting louder as ice melts, posing risks – study shows how to better measure noise
The Arctic is experiencing a rise in human-generated underwater noise due to melting ice and increased activity, disrupting wildlife and local communities. A new study from the University of Bath provides a clear framework for monitoring noise in Arctic waters, urging authorities to revise thresholds used to assess noise levels.
2026 Joseph W. St Geme, Jr Award recipient announced
Dr. Robert Vinci has been recognized for his pioneering work in reshaping pediatric education, workforce policy, and access to care for vulnerable populations. His innovative approaches have guided hundreds of trainees over four decades and transformed the field of pediatrics.
Prognostic nutritional index predicts outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma treated with atezolizumab and bevacizumab
This study investigates the prognostic value of PNI in patients receiving first-line Ate/Bev therapy for unresectable HCC. The high-PNI group showed improved treatment outcomes, including lower adverse events and longer overall survival.
A novel rolling driving principle-enabled linear actuator for bidirectional smooth motion
The RDP-type actuator enhances bidirectional consistency and motion linearity due to its symmetric driving structure and constant contact force. It demonstrates excellent performance across low and high-frequency ranges, showing minimal speed fluctuation and strong load-bearing capacity.
This flower evolved a new shape so that different birds could pollinate it. Then, it spread.
Researchers found that the green-flowered Aeschynanthus acuminatus evolved on the mainland, not in Taiwan, and adapted to shorter-beaked birds. This contradicts the Grant-Stebbins model of plant evolution, which predicted the species would evolve in Taiwan with new pollinators.
HKUMed develops novel live-attenuated vaccine that blocks coronavirus transmission with a single intranasal dose
The University of Hong Kong's research team developed a novel live-attenuated vaccine, cb1, generating broad immunity against beta-coronaviruses with a single intranasal dose. The vaccine effectively blocks viral transmission in animal models, offering a promising strategy for pandemic preparedness.
New Boston University study identifies CTE as cause of dementia
Researchers identified CTE as a cause of dementia in advanced cases, with those having the most severe form having four times increased odds for developing dementia. The study also found that CTE is often misdiagnosed during life, leading to inaccurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's disease.
Should companies replace human workers with robots? New study takes a closer look
A recent study from Binghamton University School of Management reveals that focusing on human-robot collaboration can generate additional economic value and improve a company's ability to capture a greater share of the competitive market. By leveraging robots in collaborative settings, organizations can foster a positive sense of commi...
Engineering and the quest for peace
Researchers propose an expansive mode of engineering practice that seeks to reduce conflict through the design of technologies like solar panels and water pipelines. The authors argue that procurement, education, and institutional support are necessary for peace engineering to become the norm.
Interventions that promote collective climate action
Research finds that framing pro-environmental behavior as patriotic and highlighting successful examples of collective action significantly increase public awareness advocacy, financial advocacy, and political advocacy. This megastudy provides insights to guide those who wish to galvanize the public for collective climate action.
Identification of the central pathological substrate of bipolar disorder as paraventricular thalamic nucleus
The study reveals that the paraventricular thalamic nucleus (PVT) is the central pathological substrate of bipolar disorder, with notable alterations in cell number and gene expression. This discovery highlights the PVT as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for improving patient outcomes.
Insilico Medicine and Qilu Pharmaceutical reach near $120 million drug development collaboration to accelerate novel cardiometabolic therapies
The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of small molecule inhibitors for treating metabolic diseases. Insilico will utilize its Pharma.AI platform to design and optimize novel molecules, while Qilu will handle subsequent development and commercialization.
A new route to synthesize multiple functionalized carbon nanohoops
Researchers develop versatile molecular platform to synthesize multiple functionalized carbon nanohoops, exhibiting high circularly polarized luminescence and other advanced photophysical properties. The breakthrough method enables multi-site functionalization and creation of chiral nanohoops with remarkable optical performance.
Boston University receives grant from the Michael J. Fox foundation to study mechanisms of gait improvement in Parkinson’s disease
A clinical study will investigate the effects of a three-month at-home intervention with MOVIVE on motor and cognitive responses, utilizing comprehensive assessments and brain imaging techniques. The study aims to inform tailored approaches to assessment and intervention for people with Parkinson's disease.
New study proposes global framework to safeguard world’s most vulnerable regions amid climate crisis
A new study proposes a global framework to protect the world's most vulnerable regions from catastrophic tipping points due to climate change and human pressure. The research integrates artificial intelligence with Indigenous knowledge to guide sustainable development and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Integrated smart contact lens technology for real-time intraocular pressure monitoring
Researchers at Waseda University have developed an integrated smart contact lens that enables real-time intraocular pressure monitoring for early glaucoma diagnosis. The device leverages parity-time symmetry for ultra-sensitive wireless detection, increasing sensitivity by a factor of 183.
Trust in PhD advisor predicts a good grad school experience
PhD students with high trust in their advisors report greater motivation, self-efficacy, and well-being, leading to more research submissions, fellowship awards, and a sense of accomplishment. Trust matters across demographic groups, suggesting its causal role in shaping a successful PhD journey.
Chungnam National University develops AI model to accelerate defect-based material design
Researchers at Chungnam National University have developed an AI model that uses deep learning to predict stable defect configurations in materials. The model, trained on data generated by conventional simulations, can generate results in milliseconds rather than hours, accelerating the material design process.
Applied physics researchers explore impact of mathematically structured sound to selectively interact with cells.
Researchers at Applied Physics explored whether mathematical acoustic signal structure can influence cellular response independent of intensity. Preliminary evidence suggests that cells respond most strongly at different wavelength regimes, suggesting acoustic selectivity may be achievable through signal design.
New study redefines our understanding of how memory works
Researchers found no difference in neural activity between successful semantic and episodic retrieval, challenging long-standing research tradition. This overlap suggests that the whole brain is involved in different types of memory, potentially leading to new interventions for diseases like dementia and Alzheimer's.
Prenatal exposure to air pollution is associated with lower cognitive performance in early childhood
A new study found that prenatal exposure to air pollution is associated with lower cognitive performance in newborns, with stronger associations observed for black carbon and PM2.5. The strongest effects were seen in boys, suggesting potential sex-specific vulnerability.
The most prominent trend in Holocaust commemoration worldwide is a growing focus on the rescuers of Jews
A growing trend in Holocaust commemoration worldwide is the establishment of museums and exhibitions honoring the Righteous Among the Nations, heroes who risked their lives to save Jews from extermination. These initiatives aim to preserve Jewish heritage, commemorate the memory of the Holocaust, and combat racism and antisemitism.
AI learns better when it talks to itself
Researchers at OIST found that combining inner speech with working memory enhances AI learning, enabling easier adaptation to new situations. This discovery holds promise for developing more human-like AI systems capable of handling complex, dynamic environments.
Balancing comfort and sustainability with climate-tailored housing
A research team from Osaka Metropolitan University found that optimizing window-to-wall ratio and insulation can reduce energy consumption by up to 27% in subtropical regions. The study provides tailored design guidelines for each climate zone, promoting net-zero energy housing and climate adaptation policies.
96% accurate footprint tracker for tiny mammals could help reveal ecosystem health
Scientists have developed a new way to identify and monitor small mammals using their footprints, tested on two near-identical species of sengi with 94%-96% accuracy. This technology can help reveal ecosystem health and provide a reliable metric for ecosystem integrity.
Continued exposure to certain heavy metals linked to ADHD in childhood
Research finds that children with higher levels of copper in their bodies are 16 times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD. Exposure to heavy metals like lead and mercury also increases the risk of developing the disorder or worsening symptoms.
Context matters: Looking at role in fishery sustainability could serve as a foundation to improve fisheries worldwide
Governance arrangements in small-scale fisheries have been shown to impact sustainability. Research led by Mateja Nenadović found that each governance model, whether cooperative or patron-based, is better suited to specific environmental conditions. These findings provide initial building blocks for a theory of governance fit, essentia...
Hidden virus linked to hip bone collapse, offering hope for true prevention of osteonecrosis
A new clinical study identifies localized reactivation of human cytomegalovirus inside the femoral head as a potential cause of osteonecrosis. The findings suggest that antiviral prevention strategies may be effective in blocking disease progression.
Massachusetts closest to eliminating cervical cancer, Southeastern states lag, new study finds
According to a new study, Massachusetts is close to eliminating cervical cancer due to its low incidence rate of 4.3 cases per 100,000 in recent years. In contrast, the Southeast and Southwest regions have higher rates of 11.2 and 9.9 cases per 100,000, respectively, making it challenging for these states to reach elimination goals.
Thermo-mechanical tensile behavior of rubber-modified ECC reveals enhanced ductility at sub-high temperatures
The study reveals that rubber-modified ECC displays notable tensile ductility within the sub-high temperature range of 70–100°C, with the highest ultimate tensile strain observed at 100°C. Microstructural analyses attribute this enhancement to moderate matrix degradation, fiber softening, and improved fiber pull-out behavior.
A review of the operational results of the K-ETS (2015–2024)
The K-ETS has matured into a stable policy instrument with robust institutional infrastructure. Market trading volume expanded significantly, but price stability remains a challenge. Policy reforms aim to strengthen price stability and align the emissions cap with Korea's NDC.
Spectral slimming for single-nanoparticle plasmons
Scientists have developed a novel method to control the optical spectra of single-nanoparticle plasmons, enabling high-quality plasmonic hotspots in individual metal nanoparticles. By engineering the photonic substrate beneath the particle, researchers can reshape the electromagnetic environment and dramatically sharpen plasmon resonan...
Exploring the scientific connotation of the medicinal properties of toad venom (Chansu) — 'dispersing fire stagnation and opening orifices to awaken the spirit' — from the microscopic world of 5-HTR drug-target interactions
Researchers decode the molecular mechanisms of toad venom's medicinal properties, revealing a link to serotonin receptor interactions. The study identifies key components and their selective agonist activities on depression-related receptors, shedding light on traditional Chinese medicine's modern interpretation.
How early-career English language teachers can grow professionally, despite all odds
A study by Doshisha University researchers found that early-career TESOL teachers' learning experiences in primary and secondary school significantly influenced their commitment to teaching. The study also highlights the importance of supportive networks and opportunities for reflection in promoting professional development.
Not just sweet: the sugar branches that shape the brain
A brain-specific enzyme reshapes protein-linked sugar chains to facilitate the formation of complex glycans essential for normal brain function. This process is critical for efficient keratan sulfate formation and has implications for research into glycan-related brain disorders.
Nitrate in drinking water linked to increased dementia risk while nitrate from vegetables is linked to a lower risk, researchers find
Research found that people who consumed more nitrate from vegetables had a lower risk of developing dementia, whereas those consuming more from animal foods and processed meats had a higher risk. Nitrate from drinking water was also linked to an increased risk, particularly at low levels below regulatory limits.
Rational electrolyte structure engineering for highly reversible zinc metal anode in aqueous batteries
Researchers develop rational electrolyte structure engineering for highly reversible zinc metal anodes, addressing dendrite suppression, hydrogen evolution reaction inhibition, and interface stability. Advanced electrolyte systems enable long cycle life, high capacity retention, and flexible electronics applications.
Achieving Ah‑level Zn–MnO2 pouch cells via interfacial solvation structure engineering
Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and their teams developed interfacial solvation engineering for aqueous zinc-ion batteries, overcoming safety and resource scarcity limitations. The work provides a roadmap for next-generation energy storage technologies with improved performance and efficiency.
Common environmental chemical found to disrupt hormones and implantation
A new study found that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) reduces progesterone levels, alters the uterine surface, and suppresses cytokines essential for successful embryo implantation. This exposure to PFOA can create an environment unfavorable for implantation.
Air frying fatty food better for air quality than alternatives – if you clean it, study says
A new study from the University of Birmingham found that air frying fatty foods produces fewer VOCs and ultra-fine particles compared to other cooking methods. However, repeated use without cleaning can negate some benefits for indoor air quality.
Low-cost system turns smartphones into emergency radiation detectors
A low-cost, portable dosimetry system using radiochromic film and a smartphone can provide immediate on-site readings for radiation exposure. The system is practical for personal preparedness in mass-casualty events and costs less than USD$70.
Tracking antibiotic resistance in the environment gets a high tech upgrade
Researchers are using advanced DNA sequencing technologies to monitor environmental reservoirs of antibiotic resistance genes and assess their impact on human health. The study highlights the importance of integrating gene detection, host identification, and quantitative analysis to evaluate environmental antibiotic resistance.
Dinosaur exhibition in Aira City draws 11,580 visitors, closes successfully
The 'Wakuwaku Aira Dinosaur Museum Exhibition' drew 11,580 visitors to Aira Square in Aira City. The exhibition featured a reconstructed tyrannosaurid skeleton and recreated excavation site from Mongolia, as well as hands-on learning opportunities for children.
For couples, one affectionate communicator can help both partners feel relationship satisfaction
A study found that a higher total amount of affectionate communication is more crucial for relationship satisfaction and intimacy than similar communication levels. Showing affection helps alleviate stress and improves individual well-being, contributing to healthier relationships.
Menopause linked to loss of grey matter in the brain, poorer mental health and sleep disturbance
A study from the University of Cambridge found that menopause is associated with reduced grey matter volume in key brain regions, increased anxiety and depression, and difficulties with sleep. Despite hormone replacement therapy (HRT) not mitigating these effects, it can slow reaction times.
Turning sewage waste into a smart sensor for tracking antibiotic pollution
Researchers developed a low-cost, eco-friendly sensor using biochar from sewage treatment plant sludge to detect trace levels of trimethoprim in water and pharmaceutical samples. The device offers a sustainable way to monitor antibiotic pollution.
Most common methods of inducing labour similarly effective
A new review of over 100 clinical trials found that 13 common labor induction methods are similarly effective, with low-dose vaginal misoprostol being the most commonly used and safest. However, some methods showed better success rates for specific outcomes, such as oxytocin with amniotomy for achieving vaginal birth within 24 hours.
Biochar emerges as a key material linking clean water, carbon capture, and renewable energy
Researchers synthesize recent advances on biochar's potential to support cleaner water, lower carbon emissions, and renewable energy generation. Biochar's unique physical and chemical properties make it a critical platform material connecting these systems within a circular framework.
Global health impacts of plastics systems could double by 2040
New research suggests that plastics systems' adverse health impacts could double by 2040 due to increased greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and toxic chemicals. The study emphasizes the need for systemic change, including government policies and industry transparency, to curb this growing global plastics public health crisis.
Smoke from wildfires linked to 17,000 strokes in the US alone
Research links long-term exposure to wildfire smoke with increased risk of stroke in US adults, estimating around 17,000 annual cases. The study suggests wildfire smoke may be more harmful than pollution from other sources, and highlights the need for preventative measures.
CRISP translation guide enables translating research-reporting guidelines across languages
The CRISP Translation Guide enables the translation of research-reporting guidelines to support global application of primary care study results. The five-step process ensures clarity, usability, and accuracy in translated documents.