Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 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

Bar-Ilan University Study: Attention can regulate acute inflammation in humans

A Bar-Ilan University study reveals that directing attention toward bodily sensations reduces inflammation and accelerates recovery in healthy volunteers. The study found that nearly 90% of participants showed smaller inflammatory responses when focusing on the affected area, with faster return to baseline.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateAug 17, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

How plants selectively silence jumping genes while protecting essential genes

A study from Institute of Science Tokyo reveals how histone variants direct DNA methylation to jumping genes, preventing accidental gene silencing in plants. This molecular framework enables plant cells to distinguish transposons from genes, ensuring precise epigenetic regulation across the genome.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·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

TikTok video leads to discovery of rare underground eel in India

Researchers discovered a new genus and species of underground earthworm eel, Gangaichthys indonepalicus, living beneath the Indo-Gangetic Plain in Bihar, northern India. The small, colourless creature features physical adaptations suited to life in total darkness.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateAug 17, 2026