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Science News Archive August 2026 - Page 50


Page 50 of 50

Study shows AI could support low-cost foot health technology

Researchers developed an AI model capable of generating accurate, high-resolution pressure maps using just a few anatomical landmarks, enabling lower-cost foot health monitoring in rural and remote regions. The study demonstrates the potential for AI to overcome challenges associated with traditional plantar pressure monitoring systems.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalSensors·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2026

New framework for adoption of distributed energy resources quantifies uncertainty, ensures validity across grid structures

Researchers propose a data-driven forecasting approach to predict DER adoption patterns and quantify uncertainty for more informed decision making. The framework provides plausible adoption scenarios, enabling utilities, regulators, and planners to make strategic investments and plan for long-term infrastructure needs.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalAnnals of Applied Sciences·DateAug 3, 2026

Marshall University researcher helps develop first international guidance on GLP-1 medications and women's reproductive health

A new international review provides comprehensive clinical recommendations for the use of incretin-based medications in women of reproductive age. The guidelines address critical knowledge gaps, including contraception, preconception care, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum management.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalObesity Reviews·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 3, 2026

Every day counts

A UC Irvine psychologist is using a massive longitudinal dataset to investigate how daily social connections shape our bodies and minds over time. The researcher aims to understand the 'ripple effect' of small, everyday moments on long-term health outcomes.

Genomic upheaval: How grapevine downy mildew builds its weaponry through structural chaos

Researchers assembled two complete genome assemblies of Plasmopara viticola, uncovering dynamic genome architecture and revealing nearly 90% effector genes exist as duplicated clusters. Structural variations drive effector diversification, with local duplications and rearrangements creating hotspots for gene duplication and deletion.

In the right place, even a less fit species can win

A mathematical model shows that greater fitness is not enough for a population to succeed; expansion speed and position also play crucial roles. Less fit species can win if they occupy favorable positions, such as peaks or protrusions.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Statistical Mechanics Theory and Experiment·DateAug 3, 2026

Seoul National University of Science and Technology develops an AI framework for long-term bridge damage monitoring

Researchers developed an automated computer vision system to monitor long-term bridge damage using routine drone inspections. The framework enables the tracking of structural damage progression and measurement of severity, with a maximum error rate of 4.61% compared to manual measurements.

SourceSeoul National University of Science & Technology·JournalStructural Health Monitoring·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2026

Pixel-controlled programmable metasurface enables phase-type spatial terahertz modulation

Researchers designed a compact, optically addressed programmable metasurface using VO2-based phase change materials. The device enables pixel-level independent encoding and dynamic generation of THz wavefronts for various applications including zoom meta-lensing, vortex beams, and holography.

SourceEditorial Office of Opto-Electronic Journals Group·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2026

Wireless and Communication Letters – a new international journal for engineering research and innovation launched by Bentham Science

The new journal, Wireless and Communication Letters, is an international platform for high-quality research in wireless communications, networking, and communication engineering. It publishes original letters, full-length research articles, and comprehensive reviews on the latest scientific and technological advances.

Flexible bioelectronics armed to the teeth

Researchers developed a flexible, battery-free hydrogel bioelectronic patch that wirelessly monitors periodontal inflammation and delivers localized miRNA therapy. The system successfully distinguished MMP-9 levels between healthy volunteers and patients with periodontal disease.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2026

British Risso’s dolphins belong to single population

Research on British Risso's dolphins reveals they form a single genetic entity, separate from those in the Azores and Mediterranean. The study suggests these dolphins have been isolated for some time, but further research is needed to determine their boundaries.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom·DateAug 2, 2026

Plant species with similar VOC profiles respond better to defense signals from their neighbors

A new study reveals that plants with similar volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles can detect and respond to defense signals from neighboring plants more effectively. This finding offers a potential roadmap for designing more pest-resilient agricultural systems by strategically pairing plant species based on their VOC profiles.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2026

KAIST develops AI that generates feasible plans for delivery, production, and workforce scheduling

A research team at KAIST has developed RL-SPH, a reinforcement-learning-based method that can independently generate feasible solutions satisfying all constraints. The technique achieved a 100% feasibility rate across five benchmarks, reducing the primal gap by an average of 28.6 times and improving search efficiency.

A new study reveals how the brain helps protect fertility from heat-induced damage

A new study reveals that the brain plays a crucial role in protecting fertility during heat stress by sending signals to reproductive cells. Researchers discovered an unexpected communication system between the brain and germline cells, showing how animals adjust reproduction when conditions become unfavorable.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2026

Heavy drinking amplifies the risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity attributed to adverse childhood experiences in middle-aged and older Chinese adults

A study found that heavy drinking amplifies the risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity attributed to adverse childhood experiences in middle-aged and older Chinese adults. Individuals with high ACE exposure who engaged in heavy drinking had substantially higher risk compared to those who did not drink heavily.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalMedScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2026

STUB1 pathway shields neurons after spinal cord injury

Researchers identified a protein-based defense pathway that helps neurons resist ferroptosis and oxidative stress after traumatic spinal cord injury. Strengthening this pathway improved motor recovery in injured mice by preserving sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) and activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2).

SourceBurns & Trauma·JournalBurns & Trauma·DateAug 1, 2026

KAIST develops a way to combat cancer cachexia, the wasting syndrome that debilitates patients

A KAIST research team has developed an RNA-based therapeutic strategy that blocks a brain signal to prevent muscle loss and extend survival in cancer patients. The treatment showed significant improvements in both muscle loss and metabolic dysfunction, with a notable increase in survival rates among treated mice.

Breastfeeding rates reduced due to numerous practices recommended in hospital, suggests new review of research to-date

The review challenges common misconceptions about early milk production and breast pumps. It found that colostrum is sufficient for newborn needs and pacifier use does not interfere with breastfeeding. The study's findings suggest 'small changes' to support breastfeeding success in hospitals.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 1, 2026