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Science News for August 17, 2026


Achieving sub-ambient radiative cooling under haze-polluted atmosphere

A new framework models and optimizes radiative cooling under haze conditions, finding haze selectively scatters sunlight more strongly than it degrades infrared thermal radiation. This asymmetry shifts design priority, recommending coolers maximize infrared emission under haze-polluted skies.

Topography controls how mountains respond to large earthquakes

A new study reveals that topography is the key factor controlling how mountain erosion responds to large earthquakes. Researchers found that differences in landscape steepness, hillslope-to-channel connectivity, and river transport capacity determine the erosion process. In steeper areas, deep-seated landslides carried material from de...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalGeology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 17, 2026

In situ defect Healing suppresses Mn dissolution chain reactions in aqueous sodium‑ion cathodes

Researchers introduce a novel in situ surface repair strategy that fundamentally transforms Mn-based cathode stabilization. The strategy suppresses Mn dissolution chain reactions by leveraging a concentrated 'water-in-salt' electrolyte and an Fe3+ additive that actively repairs emerging vacancies in real time. This approach achieves ex...

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateAug 17, 2026

Sound evaluation of stiffness: Using acoustic tweezers to analyze biomolecular droplets

Researchers from the University of Osaka developed an analytical tool called acoustic tweezers to investigate the mechanical properties of biopolymer condensates. The study found that changes in the natural movement of a droplet in solution can provide information on the stiffness of the droplet and the state of the molecules inside.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalPRX Life·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

Study uncovers hidden immune remodeling in pneumocystis pneumonia, points to new therapeutic target

Researchers discovered a unique macrophage subset in pneumocystis pneumonia, which exhibited strong anti-inflammatory features and activated pro-proliferative pathways. Pharmacological inhibition of the MAPK pathway reversed this expansion, reducing immune suppression and paving the way for novel treatments.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalInfectious Diseases & Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

One in 20 Australian women now receiving iron IVs

A new study found a 17-fold increase in intravenous iron use among Australian women aged 18-44, with over 82 million dollars spent on the treatment. The study highlights the growing awareness of iron deficiency's impact on women's health, but also raises questions about access to equitable treatment.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternal Medicine Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2026

Assessing hurricane wind damage from above

A recent study by Kyoto University researchers used high-resolution drone and satellite imagery to assess the effectiveness of the 2001 Florida Building Code in reducing wind damage from hurricanes. The results showed that homes built under the new code were 22% less likely to suffer wind damage and had lower damage severity. Additiona...

SourceKyoto University·JournalAmerican Economic Journal Economic Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2026

Feasibility and acceptability of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Especially for Women (CREW) web-based program in rural and remote communities: A mixed-method study

A mixed-method study found high rates of cardiac rehabilitation initiation and completion among women in rural and remote South Australia using a web-based program. Participants reported high satisfaction with the program, highlighting its value in addressing women's unique needs.

SourceFlinders University·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2026

Patient-specific "blood–brain tumor barrier chip" predicts how glioblastoma patients will respond to treatment

A Korean research team developed a patient-specific blood-brain tumor barrier-on-a-chip model to predict individual responses to glioblastoma therapies. The chip recreates a patient's own tumor cells together with the surrounding peritumoral vascular environment, allowing for precise predictions of treatment responses.

Severe mental illness linked to higher dementia risk even at young age, and greater stroke risk earlier in life

A large study found a significant association between severe mental illness and dementia at every age, with adults aged 30-39 showing a 20-fold increased risk of dementia. The study also found a higher risk of stroke in early and middle adulthood, particularly in those with severe mental illness.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalEuropean Neuropsychopharmacology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2026

Doctors may now see the hidden signs of sudden cardiac death

Columbia researchers have developed a new technique to capture electrical activity and mechanical motion within the heart using cardiac ultrasound images. This technology allows for early detection and risk assessment of Mitral Valve Disease and arrhythmias, transforming care for those suffering from these conditions.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2026

Alliance reports results from first randomized trial of a radiopharmaceutical in kidney cancer

The RadiCaL study, the first randomized trial of a radiopharmaceutical in kidney cancer, found that adding radium-223 to the standard of care does not improve skeletal event-free survival. Patients who received the combination treatment lived a median of 28.3 months, compared with 19.7 months for those who received cabozantinib alone.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

New imaging technique sees through deep tissue, dense fog, and other obstacles

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a lower-cost imaging system that overcomes challenges in near-infrared light transmission through deep tissue and dense fog. The AI-enhanced time-gating technique produces clearer images in these environments, improving applications such as cancer detection and LiDAR systems.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalLight: Science & Applications·DateAug 17, 2026

UL Research Institutes’ Electrochemical Safety Research Institute appoints Chao-Yang Wang, Ph.D., as Vice President and Executive Director

Chao-Yang Wang, a world-renowned battery innovator, has been appointed Vice President and Executive Director of the Electrochemical Safety Research Institute. He brings over three decades of experience in academia and research leadership to advance safe and reliable energy storage technologies.

SourceUL Research Institutes·TypeNews article·DateAug 17, 2026

Machine learning reveals elemental clues behind persistent free radicals in biochar

Researchers used machine learning to analyze elemental composition of biochar and found hydrogen-to-carbon ratio and oxygen content to be key predictors of persistent free radicals concentration and radical type. The study provides a data-driven framework for linking elemental properties to biochar reactivity and environmental risks.

SourceShenyang Agricultural University Collaborative Journals·JournalBiochar X·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

Experts say cuts to AHRQ threaten the future of health care quality and patient safety in the US

Recent staffing cuts, funding disruptions, and organizational changes at AHRQ have raised concerns about research projects on diagnostic errors, maternal health, and primary care. Experts call for Congress to act and urge the agency to resume regular meetings of the US Preventive Services Task Force.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateAug 17, 2026

Central hub for heart repair discovered

Scientists at University Hospital of Bonn identified a signaling pathway in the immune system that helps newborn heart cells survive and regenerate after injury. The discovery opens new possibilities for therapies aimed at repairing damaged adult hearts, which have limited regenerative capacity compared to neonatal hearts.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalCell Communication and Signaling·DateAug 17, 2026

A flash of light creates high-performance materials without heating the surface beneath

Researchers developed a technique to control internal structure of semiconductor materials using ultra-fast flashes of light, producing materials with up to 50 times more electrical current from light. The method works on transparent conducting glass, preserving useful properties that conventional heating methods cannot easily achieve.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalSmall Structures·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

Charging ahead with sustainable zinc-iodine battery development

Flinders University researchers have designed an aqueous zinc-ion battery that can be charged and discharged over 60,000 cycles, potentially mitigating resource shortages and waste issues associated with lithium-ion batteries. The system uses low-cost organic cyclodextrin-based polymer host material to trap and release polyhalides.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2026

How tomato ‘golden hour’ research could help crops survive heatwaves and drought

A new study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that tomato plants can optimize water use during a specific 'golden hour' when sunlight is strong but heat and dry air are minimal. This discovery could give plant breeders a powerful tool to develop crops that can thrive in increasingly unpredictable climate conditions.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPlant Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

Orbitronics steps out of the lab

A new material system has been developed to bypass limitations in spin-orbit torque magnetic random-access memory, enabling highly efficient orbital torque-driven magnetic tunnel junctions and solving critical yield bottlenecks.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateAug 17, 2026

Multi-source data-driven machine learning reshapes the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer

Multi-source data-driven machine learning is transforming lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis by analyzing complex medical data. The review highlights the innovative applications of this technology in early screening, personalized treatment optimization, and dynamic prognostic risk stratification.

Laser therapy offers weapon against deadly brain tumors

A large analysis of patient outcomes shows that tumor ablation and treatment timing extend survival in patients with glioblastoma. The study identifies factors leading to the best outcomes, providing critical new information to improve therapy for these patients.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2026

A comparison of Neandertal and modern human pelvises suggests that the male pelvis represents an evolutionary innovation

Researchers compared Neandertal and modern human pelvises, finding that the male pelvis evolved a unique biomechanical shock-absorbing mechanism that stores energy and facilitates long-distance walking. This innovation likely arose from the need to cushion the impact of each step and release energy with every stride.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 17, 2026

Ancient maritime voyagers carried symbolic art 4,000 years ago

A 4,000-year-old stone plaque discovered in Indonesia provides the first evidence of portable Austronesian painted art, showcasing a distinctive sun-ray design characteristic of the tradition. The securely dated context reveals that these designs were used to communicate shared identities and affiliations between island communities.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 17, 2026

Finnish intervention program reduces children's anxiety and improves functional ability — effects are still evident after two years

A randomized controlled trial shows that an internet-based Master Your Worries programme significantly reduces anxiety symptoms and improves functional ability in children, even after two years. The study found the positive effects of therapy to be greatest among children with more severe symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 17, 2026

Last common ancestor, no matter its feet, could have been a vertical climber

A study from Ohio State University found that sooty mangabey monkeys, with feet similar to those of humans, can climb vertical tree trunks with ease. The research suggests that the last common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees could have been a vertical climber, challenging existing theories about foot structure and forest environment...

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2026

Butterflies on the move to higher ground

A new study by Dr Esme Ashe-Jepson finds that butterflies are primarily responding to climate change by shifting their distributions to cooler elevations. Large and pale species have an advantage in thermoregulation, leading to changes in butterfly communities along the elevational gradient.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCommunications Biology·DateAug 17, 2026

Light engines in the quantum world

Physicists at the University of Basel have developed a theoretical approach to reconcile thermodynamics and quantum physics. By using a miniature heat engine in a cavity, they can absorb and emit light particles, creating a

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 17, 2026

Waiting for a bed, but not for care: Emergency department boarding study finds wide variation in handoffs

A new study found that 23% of emergency department boarding patients wait at least 4 hours before receiving inpatient-quality care, with some patients waiting 12 or 24 hours. The study highlights the importance of efficient handoffs from emergency to inpatient care, particularly for vulnerable populations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2026

A sea of opportunity for health and sustainability

A new study from the University of Miami suggests that Brazil can build healthier and more sustainable food systems by encouraging people to eat more seafood. The researchers found that Brazilians could reduce nutritional deficiencies by increasing seafood consumption from six percent to 25 percent of their total protein intake.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalNature Food·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2026

While Great Lakes ice cover is slipping, a 'temporary respite' may be on the way

A new study suggests that the Great Lakes' ice cover may experience a temporary increase in average ice cover due to natural global cycles, but this does not mean the lakes will escape the consequences of climate change. The research, supported by the US National Science Foundation, found that the lakes' ice cover is synced to strong b...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateAug 17, 2026

Billions of invasive round goby are in the Great Lakes. UTSC researchers want to stop them from spreading inland

UTSC researchers suggest governments should rethink round goby management as the invasive species spreads inland, threatening native biodiversity. The team proposes a combination of trapping, electrofishing, physical barriers, and rapid-response programs to reduce local populations and eliminate them.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateAug 17, 2026

Natural biopolymer beads as a smart solution for sustainable wastewater treatment and more

Researchers examine recent progress in chitosan-alginate composite beads for sustainable wastewater treatment, highlighting their potential as cost-effective and reusable solutions. The study also explores future applications of these biopolymer composites in precision medicine, smart agriculture, and the circular bioeconomy.

SourceHasanuddin University·JournalBioresource Technology Reports·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 17, 2026

New research traces the evolution of wastewater and environmental surveillance in carceral settings and analyzes the ethical, medical, legal challenges

New research analyzes the use of wastewater surveillance in carceral settings, revealing gaps in human subjects protections and accountability to traditional public health guidelines. The study warns that unchecked WES in carcels can lead to misuse or harm to incarcerated individuals and surrounding communities.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2026

UMass Amherst engineers make edge AI more efficient by redesigning both algorithm and hardware

Researchers at UMass Amherst have designed an edge AI system that leverages hyperdimensional computing algorithms and analog in-memory computing hardware to achieve high accuracy and efficiency. The system achieved 95.24% accuracy in language identification while reducing computing resources by 90%.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

Scientists identify brain’s brake that shuts off chronic pain

Researchers have identified a biological brake in the brain that regulates chronic pain, a discovery that could lead to more effective treatments. By targeting specific receptors in the locus coeruleus region of the brain, scientists hope to develop new therapies that provide powerful relief for chronic neuropathic pain.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

Cold and room-temperature platelets in cardiac surgery

Researchers found that cold storage platelets (CSPs) can control active surgical bleeding as effectively as room temperature platelets (RTPs), with potential benefits including reduced wastage and increased platelet availability. CSPs may also enable platelet incorporation into inventory at locations with limited shelf life for RTPs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 17, 2026

Pilots, flight attendants have greater risk of radiation-related cancer death than other professions

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that pilots and flight attendants have statistically significantly higher rates of death from breast, central nervous system, and prostate cancers and melanoma. The study used a large dataset and accounted for various factors to determine the occupation's impact on mortality.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 17, 2026

Study finds people who consumed sugar-sweetened beverages on a daily basis had higher risk of stomach cancer

Consuming at least one sugar-sweetened beverage per day increases gastric cancer risk by over twice, while artificially sweetened beverages show no association. The study analyzed data from over 100,000 participants and found a significant link between high fructose intake and greater gastric cancer incidence.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalGastro Hep Advances·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2026

Personal expectations of ageing shape our social lives

A 10-year study shows that people's expectations of their own ageing can influence their social lives. The research found that those who expected a fulfilling family life in old age actually spent more time with family and friends years later. Positive perceptions of ageing also led to better experiences in everyday social interactions.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateAug 17, 2026

Pusan National University researchers show how Korea’s emission trading reforms would impact its power sector

A study by Pusan National University researchers found that Korea's emission trading reforms could reduce fossil fuel usage by increasing carbon pricing, while uniform benchmarking and auctioning ratio changes would affect power generation companies differently. The reforms aim to maximize their impact with complementary measures.

SourcePusan National University·JournalEnergy Policy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2026

One step closer to efficient autonomous dental surgery

A new robotic system demonstrates superior accuracy and geometric fidelity compared to traditional methods, preserving more surrounding bone and reducing unnecessary removal. The technology has potential to make tooth autotransplantation more predictable and less dependent on operator experience.

SourceEditorial Office of West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University·JournalInternational Journal of Oral Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

Hanbat National University researchers reveal physics-informed AI for rapid optimization of thermal energy storage systems

Researchers at Hanbat National University developed a hybrid physics-informed neural network framework for optimization of latent heat thermal energy storage systems. The framework enables rapid, autonomous design optimization by teaching the AI model governing laws of physics.

SourceHanbat National University Industry–University Cooperation Foundation·JournalJournal of Energy Storage·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2026

Dongguk University researchers develop innovative electromagnetically controllable gene switch

Researchers at Dongguk University have developed an innovative gene switch that uses electromagnetic fields to control gene expression. The switch, which targets the Lgr4 gene, demonstrates precise activation with no detectable adverse effects, making it a promising platform for non-invasive gene therapies.

SourceDongguk University Evaluation and Audit Team·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026

Hebei Medical University researchers review prolonged disorders of consciousness management

Researchers from Hebei Medical University review current evidence on prolonged disorders of consciousness (pDOC) management. They propose a brain communication network model to explain how brain injury leads to long-term unconsciousness, identifying key brain electrical signaling activity measures for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceChinese Neurosurgical Journal·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 17, 2026

Can dogs help teens cope with peer stress?

A new study found that certain aspects of a teenager's relationship with their pet dog are associated with healthier ways of coping with peer-related stress. Companionship and caring for the dog were linked to positive coping styles, while feeling emotional support from the dog was less likely to be associated with healthy thinking.

SourceTufts University·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 17, 2026