Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for July 21, 2026


What drives the switch to electric vehicles? Research reveals a "behavioral asymmetry" between fuel and EV owners

A study reveals a contrast in decision-making pathways between fuel vehicle and EV owners, highlighting pragmatic benefits for FV owners and habit-driven loyalty among EV owners. The research suggests segment-specific strategies to convert fuel-to-EV owners and retain existing EV users.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCommunications in Transportation Research·DateJul 21, 2026

Exercise addiction is real, but often overstated

A major international review finds that exercise addiction is marked by a loss of control and can lead to physical harm, emotional distress, and strained connections. Researchers caution against alarm and emphasize the importance of exercising smarter, building in rest and recovery days, and seeking support early.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 21, 2026

New integrated framework bridges aquatic and terrestrial ecological risk assessment for lake conservation

A new 'Hydrology–Environment–Ecology' framework bridges aquatic and terrestrial ecological risk assessment for lake conservation. The framework reveals significant increasing trends in both aquatic and terrestrial ecological risks from 2000 to 2019, with habitat quality identified as the key risk indicator.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater & Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2026

Monte Carlo-consistent dose prediction for clinical CyberKnife radiotherapy using a physics- and spatially-informed diffusion model

A new model, PSIDMViT, combines anatomy, physics, and machine learning to predict accurate dose distributions for CyberKnife radiation therapy. The study shows improved agreement with Monte Carlo reference doses and reduced computation time, suggesting a promising strategy for improving radiotherapy dose prediction.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalIntelligent Oncology·DateJul 21, 2026

Study on the rationality of applying traditional inerting methods to nano-aluminum powder in additive manufacturing processes

Researchers found that traditional inerting methods are ineffective in preventing explosions from nano-aluminum powder in additive manufacturing. The study suggests that only certain types of inert powders can suppress combustion without promoting it. This research provides critical evidence and theoretical basis for developing targete...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalDefence Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

Researchers expand simulation tool to help design the next generation of photonic and quantum devices

A new computational approach extends the Particle-in-Cell method with condensed-matter physics, enabling researchers to simulate a broader range of light–matter interactions in metals, semiconductors, and emerging quantum materials. This allows for more realistic predictions and optimizations in next-generation semiconductor and photon...

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalComputer Physics Communications·DateJul 21, 2026

Are penalties a deterrent or a “price”?

This study examines the impact of financial penalties on US airlines' behavior during lengthy tarmac delays. Despite improvements in some cases, changes are generally modest and short-lived, with unintended effects like increased flight cancellations.

SourceEhime University·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·DateJul 21, 2026

Heat is coming for Hawaiian corals but study finds there may be time to adapt

A recent study using high-resolution modeling suggests that Hawaiian corals may be able to adapt to increasing temperatures, even under a high emissions scenario. However, the rate of adaptation varies across different coastal locations, with those around Hawaiʻi Island projected to experience higher heat stress.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2026

Tracking a flight path to a green aviation future

A comprehensive study has consolidated knowledge on the production of green hydrogen for jet fuel, highlighting its potential to transform the sector. To make it commercially viable, significant research is needed on hydrogen infrastructure needs, refuelling systems, and policy frameworks.

SourceAdelaide University·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·DateJul 21, 2026

Try a little tenderness - new study into humans' closest ape relatives suggests physical touch can promote social harmony

A new study led by Durham University suggests that reassuring body contact can improve social tolerance and promote peaceful resource sharing. The research analyzed behaviours of bonobos and chimpanzees and found that individuals who engaged in pre-feeding reassurance spent more time co-feeding alongside others.

SourceDurham University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2026

A single blood sample may improve the prediction of colorectal cancer recurrence or metastasis, kaist study finds

A joint KAIST research team developed a new framework for analyzing networks of circulating amino acids, reflecting the body's metabolic state. They showed that this approach can predict recurrence or metastasis in patients with colorectal cancer more accurately than current methods.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2026

High-resolution map reveals where veterinary antibiotics enter China’s environment

A new study has developed a high-resolution inventory of veterinary antibiotic emissions across China, tracking emissions from livestock and aquaculture into soil, freshwater, and seawater. The inventory estimated that approximately 23,110 tonnes of veterinary antibiotics were released into China's environment in 2020.

New protocol reveals the hidden climate and air pollution costs of shopping

A new study introduces a standardized method for measuring greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions generated across the entire retail journey. The protocol covers online and traditional in-store shopping and provides nationwide parameters for China from 1990 to 2023, identifying opportunities for meaningful reductions.

UVA Engineering’s John Scully named one of SURA’s two 2026 Distinguished Scientist Award recipients

John Scully, a renowned materials scientist, has been recognized with the SURA Distinguished Scientist Award for his groundbreaking work on corrosion research. His contributions have led to significant advancements in understanding materials degradation in harsh environments, impacting human health and national defense.

UVA researcher Craig Meyer honored with ISMRM Gold Medal for lifetime contributions to MRI innovation

Craig Meyer, a UVA professor of biomedical engineering and radiology, received the ISMRM Gold Medal for his pioneering work in advancing MRI technology. His research focuses on refining fast acquisition methods, including spiral-based approaches, to capture high-quality images in challenging conditions like imaging the lungs. The awar...

Study finds pregnancy complications may increase risk for artery disease

A new UTHealth Houston study found that women experiencing pregnancy complications are at a higher risk of developing peripheral artery disease later in life. The study analyzed data from over 2 million women in Sweden and showed that preterm delivery, preeclampsia, and other adverse outcomes can lead to increased cardiovascular risks.

Rice, Baylor College of Medicine researchers explore safer surgical tools to reduce swallowing complications after spine surgery

Researchers identified simple changes to surgical tools that can significantly affect how pressure is distributed across the esophageal wall during neck surgery. Wider retractor blades reduced stress beneath the center of the blade by up to 82%, but also shifted higher stress toward the edges.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials·DateJul 21, 2026

Artificial intelligence could help wastewater plants track and manage microplastics

Researchers developed an AI framework for detecting and managing microplastics in wastewater treatment systems. The system uses computer vision and machine learning to predict removal efficiency and identify pollution sources. While AI can complement chemical analysis, major challenges remain before these tools can be widely deployed.

2026 Optica Fellow: It’s a good look for electrical and computer engineering professor Andreas Beling

Andreas Beling, a professor at the University of Virginia, is recognized for his work on high-power photodetectors and integrated optical detectors for quantum applications. His research enables faster data transmission and higher-speed communication systems, with potential impact on quantum computing and medical imaging.

UVA engineering researcher earns $1.1M NIH award to advance single-cell analysis and disease detection

A UVA engineer is developing microfluidic devices and AI-powered computational tools to isolate and study rare circulating cells, which could lead to better treatments for diseases like cancer and infection. The technology aims to integrate with electronics and systems to measure single-cell physical properties on a microchip.

New technique enables LIGO to peer farther into the distant universe

Scientists at UC Riverside developed a new method to help LIGO detect weaker gravitational-wave events by measuring heat-induced distortions in mirrors. The technique combines thermal imaging with existing wavefront measurements and computer models, enabling the observatory to improve its sensitivity and detect more distant events.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalClassical and Quantum Gravity·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

Community-led health and livelihood programs helped protect rainforests during the pandemic

A new study in The Lancet Planetary Health shows that when communities designed their own health and livelihood programs with local NGOs, they were more resilient to economic hardships caused by COVID-19. As a result, forest loss declined significantly, with rates 52% lower in supported communities compared to unaffiliated ones.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

Doctor-patient common tongue associated with better long-term survival for Canada’s Francophone, minority populations: University of Ottawa study

A retrospective cohort study found that language-concordant physician care significantly reduces all-cause mortality in both Francophone and Allophone patients. The study suggests prioritizing patient-physician linguistic matching and evidence-based interpretation services to improve long-term survival in Canada's increasingly linguist...

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

Biggs Institute at UT Health San Antonio to lead $2.5 million national, multi-site study on dementia with Lewy bodies

The Biggs Institute is leading a $2.5 million national, multi-site study to improve detection and diagnosis of dementia with Lewy bodies. The study will enroll 125 participants and evaluate multiple possible new tools and methods to accurately identify individuals who have accumulated abnormal alpha-synuclein in the brain.

Simulations show distinct ground motion signatures of supershear earthquakes

Researchers found that sustained supershear earthquake ruptures produce stronger ground motion amplitudes and higher peak ground velocity up to 20 kilometers away from the fault. The duration of shaking also varies between subshear and supershear ruptures, with longer shaking near the fault due to a 'double punch' effect.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2026

Imaging shows increased brain aging across different brain disorders

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that people with dementia, mild cognitive impairment, alcohol addiction, or psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia show increased brain aging patterns. The researchers analyzed MRI data from over 45,900 controls and compared them to 2,698 patients with different brain conditions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2026

Study: Semaglutide sustains lower calorie intake for more than a year

Researchers found that semaglutide treatment continued to reduce calorie intake even as participants felt hunger sensations return, contributing to sustained weight loss. Participants who took semaglutide lost an average of 15.1% of their initial body weight after 60 weeks, compared to 3.4% for placebo recipients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 21, 2026

A cleaner route to purifying rare earth elements

Scientists have developed a new approach to purify rare earth elements using atomic channels, separating them from each other without the need for toxic chemicals. The method has been shown to be competitive with existing separation methods and can differentiate similar pairs of rare earth elements.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Chemical Engineering·DateJul 21, 2026

Nostalgia and family traditions are major barriers to adoption of plant-based diets, Stirling study finds

A new study found that nostalgia and family traditions are major barriers to adopting plant-based diets, with personal experiences and cultural identities playing a significant role. Researchers suggest recreating nostalgic or culturally significant dishes using vegan ingredients can make dietary change feel more accessible.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalPsychology of Human-Animal Intergroup Relations·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

Brain stimulation offers hope for brain disorders: researchers take key step to accelerate progress

Researchers have developed a new assessment tool to standardize reporting of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies. The Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Reporting Assessment Tool (TMS-RAT) helps compare results, build on each other's findings, and support progress in brain stimulation research. This tool addresses the need f...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalBrain Stimulation·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

Satellite data comparison reveals critical impacts of spatial & spectral resolution on sandy grassland plant biodiversity monitoring

The study highlights a core trade-off between spatial resolution, spectral bandwidth and plot-pixel matching in arid ecosystems. Multi-source, multi-scale remote sensing fusion is advocated for future dryland biodiversity conservation and management.

SourceSouth China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalBiological Diversity·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

Digital media may reshape people’s willingness to invest cognitive effort

Research suggests that digital platforms can alter how valuable our brain perceives cognitive effort, leading to a preference for immediate gratification. This 'effort recalibration' framework proposes that digital media do not necessarily reduce cognitive capacity but rather reshape internal evaluations of task difficulty.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

As Supreme Court decisions grow sharper, study examines justices’ calculated concessions

A new study reveals that Supreme Court justices employ 'appeasement' strategies, including conciliatory language, to persuade their peers and preserve influence within the court. This measured approach helps justices work together despite deep ideological divisions, offering insights into the court's functioning.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalAmerican Politics Research·DateJul 21, 2026

Green hydrogen with PEC electrolysers: New insights into transport processes

A team at HZB Institute for Solar Fuels has observed the movement of ions and dissolved gases within electrolytes during electrolysis using 2D fluorescence imaging and particle velocimetry. The study found that pH gradients form within the volume, not just near surfaces, and increasing buffer ion concentration can mitigate this issue.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalEES Solar·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

New study highlights enforcement gap in UK contracts for difference scheme: Research shows that offshore wind CfD termination payments may be large in theory, but difficult to recover if project companies face financial distress.

A new study highlights a potential enforcement gap in the UK Contracts for Difference scheme, which supports low-carbon electricity generation. The study shows that termination payments under the CfD scheme may be large in contractual terms but difficult to recover in practice due to financial distress or insolvency.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalEnergy and Climate Management·DateJul 21, 2026

Breastfeeding rather than bottle-feeding is seen as the ideal of a good mother in Instagram comments

A study by Universitat Pompeu Fabra found that Instagram comments associate breastfeeding with the ideal of good motherhood, fostering guilt among women who cannot breastfeed. The research highlights the tension between idealized representation and everyday reality, revealing a need for critical awareness and empowerment.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalMedia & Jornalismo·TypeContent analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

Nicotinamide riboside chloride: A potent neuroprotector and therapeutic candidate for alcohol-induced cognitive impairment

A new study finds nicotinamide riboside chloride protects neurons from alcohol-induced injury by restoring mitochondrial quality control through coordinated activation of the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) and mitophagy. NRC supplementation successfully reverses aggravated pathology, mitigating cognitive impairments an...

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateJul 21, 2026

High-speed 3D imaging reveals how seizures move through the brain

Researchers have developed a high-resolution light-sheet imaging system that can capture seizure propagation in the brain of larval zebrafish in 3D. The system allows for rapid volumetric imaging with real-time correction of aberrations, providing new insights into seizure mechanisms and brain function.

SourceOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

Fructooligosaccharide alleviate hyperuricemia: Gut microbial interactions drive uric acid degradation via a novel mechanism

Researchers discovered that fructooligosaccharide induces the selective enrichment of Anaerotruncus colihominis, a UA-degrading bacterium, via modulation of the gut microbiota. This interaction alleviates oxidative damage to the kidney and offers a new therapeutic rationale for prebiotic-based management of hyperuricemia

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

Why do we have traveling brain waves?

A new review article synthesizes information on neural traveling waves, concluding they are a computational engine in the visual cortex. These waves allow the brain to build internal representations of the external world, enabling prediction and perception.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateJul 21, 2026

A provincial-level modeling framework for integrated building stock-energy-material-carbon assessment in China

The MESSAGEix-China-Building-R31 model integrates provincial-level analysis of building stock, energy demand, material demand, and carbon emissions. The study validates the model using regional data and sensitivity analyses, highlighting its reliability for multi-scenario and cross-regional analysis.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalEnergy and Climate Management·DateJul 21, 2026

Starving bacteria to death

Scientists have created a novel antibiotic that targets starved bacteria by blocking energy-coupling factor transporters. The breakthrough offers hope for tackling drug-resistant infections, with promising results in mouse models and no resistant bacterial variants emerging.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

Uncovering multidimensional effects of generative ai on learning… "high dependency lowers actual test scores"

A recent study by Sungkyunkwan University analyzed the effects of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) on learning outcomes. The research found that students who used GAI to solve problems showed higher test scores than those who only used it for concept understanding, as it reduced brain stress and increased efficiency.

SourceSungkyunkwan University External Affairs Division (PR team)·JournalInteractive Learning Environments·DateJul 21, 2026

Temperature-field assisted vat photopolymerization (TF-VPP) fabrication of high-strength, low-shrinkage silica-based ceramic cores: Critical modulation effects of spherical powders and vacuum debinding

Researchers developed a uniform TF-VPP system to fabricate high-strength, low-shrinkage silica-based ceramic cores using spherical powders and vacuum debinding. The approach offers a viable solution to traditional VPP printing challenges, including significant shrinkage and mechanical strength limitations.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateJul 21, 2026

Phase evolution and broadband electromagnetic wave absorption mechanisms of electrospun polymer-derived SiC-based fibrous ceramic membranes

Researchers developed a novel polymer-derived ceramic strategy to create SiC-based fibrous ceramic membranes featuring a balanced multiphase architecture. The optimized ceramic membrane achieved outstanding broadband microwave absorption with a minimum reflection loss of −27.12 dB.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateJul 21, 2026

Wistar scientists develop DNA-delivered immunotherapy that targets ovarian cancer more effectively

Researchers developed a novel DNA delivery platform to deliver bispecific T cell engagers (BTEs), improving how T cells recognize and attack cancer. The approach uses an antibody 'knob' that accurately fits with an 'hole', delivering BTEs directly within the body, reducing manufacturing costs and treatment burden.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalMolecular Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

Breakthrough in ferroelectric ceramics: Texturing and calcium doping enable high in-plane polarization with low leakage current in SrBi2Ta2O9

Researchers have developed textured SrBi2Ta2O9 ceramics with high in-plane remnant polarization of 15.83 μC×cm², a 197% increase compared to randomly oriented ceramics. Calcium doping effectively cuts leakage by enlarging the band gap, offering a pathway for designing reliable ferroelectric devices.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateJul 21, 2026

$5 million gift establishes Colton Center for Autoimmunity at Mount Sinai to advance precision medicine for autoimmune diseases

The new center at Mount Sinai will join the Colton Consortium for Autoimmunity, expanding research on earlier detection, precision treatment, and disease prevention for people with autoimmune diseases. The Center aims to develop more precise, effective treatments across multiple diseases by understanding shared immune pathways.

New geopolitical-economic order framework shows firm strategies vary under two types of state-market order

A new paper proposes a geopolitical-economic order framework that distinguishes between two types of economic orders: state-based and market-based. The former rewards strategic power and government intervention, while the latter promotes mutually beneficial voluntary exchanges. Understanding these differences is crucial for multination...

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

Heart failure: time for prevention

Heart failure affects over 60 million people worldwide and is a leading cause of hospitalization among older adults. The new expert statement highlights the importance of prevention and early intervention in reducing risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.

SourceWroclaw Medical University·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 21, 2026

Leveraging social expectation for charitable donations

Social expectation messages appeal to people's desire to act consistently with their self-image and reduce feelings of guilt. Emphasizing society's expectations enhances charitable giving in NGO advertisements, with click-through rates and donation rates significantly higher than other framings.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 21, 2026

College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University study explores rare atom-containing natural products and their biomedical potential

A review study reveals diverse metabolite families containing atypical atoms, including fluorine, selenium, arsenic, and boron, with distinct biological functions and properties. These elements shape natural products with structural and functional versatility, paving ways toward sustainable biotechnologies.

SourcePusan National University·JournalNatural Product Reports·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 21, 2026

Frailty tool in aging dogs digs up new data energizing the maternal cost of reproduction debate: Good news for mothers

Researchers found that females with live offspring had lower late-life frailty, contradicting previous theories on a potential reproductive cost. The study used companion dogs to investigate the relationship between reproduction and aging, revealing a unique link between parity and robustness.

SourceGerald P. Murphy Cancer Foundation·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2026

Indigenous knowledge key to building healthier and more sustainable food systems

A new review of current research highlights the importance of culturally grounded approaches to food systems literacy in addressing global hunger and malnutrition. The study suggests that Indigenous knowledge and participatory methods can improve food systems resilience and support communities to maintain traditional food practices.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Food·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 21, 2026

Why brains lose their flexibility in psychiatric conditions

A new Rutgers study reveals that individuals with psychiatric conditions exhibit reduced brain network dynamics, which can be used to distinguish between patients and healthy individuals. The findings also suggest that dynamic features of brain function may provide a more precise way of understanding mental illness.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

Chemists control supramolecules using vapors

Researchers design a vapor-controlled reversible host–guest chemistry system that controls the optical and physical properties of a functional molecular liquid. The FML's optical and physical properties change immediately upon forming a host–guest complex, but can be restored by exposing it to hexane vapors.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026

Hemodialysis mortality risks by blood type

A large-scale prospective cohort study found that patients with blood type A had lower risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. In contrast, blood type O's reputation of being at lower risk is partially due to lower plasma von Willebrand factor levels, but this did not explain the increased risk in blood type A patients.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalKidney International Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2026