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Science News for July 28, 2026


Breaking down barriers to cardiac regeneration

Scientists have uncovered a new mechanism used by heart cells to resist reprogramming and found that carbohydrate sulfotransferase 7 (CHST7) is the most potent preventer of reprogramming in mouse and human cells. By targeting CHST7, researchers may develop treatments to help the heart fix itself after injury.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

New framework predicts how temperature drives toxic VOC emissions from automotive paint sludge

Researchers developed a physics-based framework to predict temperature-driven VOC emissions from automotive paint sludge. Higher temperatures increase the release rate of VOCs, with moderate changes leading to substantial increases in quantity and speed of diffusion.

SourceShenyang Agricultural University Collaborative Journals·JournalEnergy & Environment Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Feds can bank on better stress tests

Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new approach to stress testing, which simulates multiple financial risks simultaneously to predict bank resilience. This method outperformed existing stress tests in identifying worst-case losses and captured more severe losses.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalManagement Science·DateJul 28, 2026

Study demonstrates the impact of expanding mobile addiction clinics

A study published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health reveals that mobile addiction services can effectively treat people who use drugs, particularly those disconnected from traditional care. The Mass General Brigham Kraft Center for Community Health model proved successful in improving outcomes and red...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 28, 2026

Tire microplastics may accelerate the spread of antibiotic resistance in cities

New research suggests that tire microplastics can create environmental hotspots that facilitate the persistence, transfer, and spread of antibiotic resistance genes through cities. The microplastics can develop dense microbial biofilms, release chemicals that select for resistant bacteria, and contribute to oxidative stress.

SourceShenyang Agricultural University Collaborative Journals·JournalBiocontaminant·TypeNews article·DateJul 28, 2026

Shining a light on constructing blood supply systems for artificial tissues

Scientists at the University of Osaka have created a new technique to build blood supply systems for artificial tissues. They successfully fabricated tubular hydrogel structures with controlled lumen sizes and complex geometries, paving the way for creating vascular models that can investigate the development of fully synthetic tissues.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Scientists’ biographies may demotivate, not inspire, children to study science

Research finds that bestselling children's science biographies often portray scientists' abilities as innate, discouraging young readers, especially girls and minority children. The study highlights the importance of growth mindset narratives in promoting motivation and accessibility in STEM fields.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

100% organic free-range egg production could have negative consequences for climate and nature - research

Research highlights trade-offs between animal welfare, environmental impact, and food production in the egg industry. Shifting to entirely free-range and organic methods may increase emissions by 60% and land occupation, while cage-free systems could require larger hen populations and increase environmental pressures.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 28, 2026

Archaic human parents also had a hard time raising kids

Archaeic human parents likely had to provide constant parental care due to deformed head shapes in fossilized humans. Human babies are born less developed than other great apes, requiring specialized care, and this helps explain the origins of cooperative social behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

Cellulose‑enabled hydrovoltaic energy generation: from molecular and materials design to device integration

Researchers review cellulose-enabled hydrovoltaic energy generators that combine intrinsic properties of natural polymer cellulose with emerging mechanisms to generate electricity. Cellulose-based systems achieve remarkable metrics in power density and efficiency across various categories.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJul 28, 2026

Cascaded broadband low‑frequency microwave absorption covering P‑ to C‑band in ultra‑thin metamaterials via synergistic local‑field and loss‑field enhancement

Researchers created a cascaded metasurface absorber composite that overcomes fundamental trade-offs in LF microwave absorption materials. The novel design achieves exceptional absorption across P- to C-bands at an ultra-thin thickness of 3.78 mm, with outstanding angular stability and stealth capability.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJul 28, 2026

Ancient shipwreck cargo reveals surprising global trade secrets of the 1600s

Researchers analysed stone blocks and bricks from the Dutch East India Company's ship Batavia, revealing the materials came from at least two different quarry areas in what is now Germany. The study used advanced geochemical techniques to trace the origin of the cargo, uncovering hidden details about global trade routes.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

New study identifies behaviours influencing prescribing decisions for new medicines in neurodegenerative disease

A new pan-European study identified the psychological and contextual factors that shape decision-making among healthcare professionals. The findings provide important insights into how behaviour change frameworks could support the uptake of new treatments, with the strongest lever being to shift intention to prescribe.

SourceAston University·JournalPLOS One·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

Using a molecule as a quantum sensor

Researchers from the University of Waterloo developed a new quantum sensing technique using a molecule as a sensor, enabling precise imaging of single molecules. This technique has potential applications in drug discovery and structural biology.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Linkage isomerism in COFs boosts photocatalytic hydrogen evolution 100-fold

Researchers unveil a powerful strategy to enhance photocatalytic hydrogen production by manipulating linkage isomerism within covalent organic frameworks (COFs). COF-DPPQ achieves a 100-fold increase in catalytic performance, optimizing internal electric field and carrier lifetime. The study provides a generalizable paradigm for develo...

Chinese Medical Journal Review highlights stable CircRNAs as non‑invasive biomarkers for cancer detection and therapy

Circulating circRNAs show high cell-type and tissue specificity, making them ideal for non-invasive cancer management. They can be detected in multiple body fluids and reflect treatment response, positioning them as functional drivers of therapy resistance.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 28, 2026

Predicting disease through voice recordings and AI: experts establish standards for vocal biomarkers

Researchers have developed a consensus-based framework and definitions for vocal biomarkers to improve collaboration and validation of voice-derived indicators in health conditions such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, depression, heart failure, and type 2 diabetes. The framework provides a scientifically grounded vocabulary to support the...

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalDigital Biomarkers·DateJul 28, 2026

Wang to receive NSF CAREER Award

George Mason University Assistant Professor Xuan Wang will receive funding for his project on knowledge transfer in robot learning. He aims to develop efficient approaches that enable robots to reuse prior knowledge, supporting safer and more affordable robotic technologies in various industries.

New clinical trial shows importance of integrated early-life interventions to improve growth and neurodevelopment in babies born too small

A new clinical trial found that integrated early-life interventions significantly improved the growth and neurodevelopment of babies born too small. The study, conducted in India, showed a lower prevalence of underweight, stunting, and anemia among infants receiving the intervention.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 28, 2026

Scientists repair damaged plastics at the molecular level, boosting recycling potential

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a method to restore the mechanical strength of degraded polybutylene terephthalate by repairing molecular chains with a chain extender. The technique recovers plastic tensile strength to nearly that of virgin material, enabling high-performance plastics to be reused instead of discarded.

SourceTohoku University·JournalComposites Part A Applied Science and Manufacturing·DateJul 28, 2026

Experimental immunotherapy may help patients with high-risk bladder cancer avoid bladder removal surgery

A new immunotherapy treatment has been shown to be effective in treating high-risk bladder cancer, allowing many patients to keep their bladder instead of having it surgically removed. The treatment, called cretostimogene grenadenorepvec, produced a complete response in 75% of patients, with most side effects being mild and temporary.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJul 28, 2026

National Academy of Inventors and US Patent and Trademark Office announce five-year national initiative to strengthen America's innovation future

The National Academy of Inventors and US Patent and Trademark Office announce a five-year national initiative to expand intellectual property education, accelerate commercialization, and unite America's innovation ecosystem. The partnership aims to strengthen America's invention-to-impact pipeline by uniting research, IP, entrepreneurs...

Core2Edge: How tumor cells conquer the brain

A new glioblastoma model called Core2Edge has been developed to study the invasive front and direct assessment of new drug candidates in human tissue. The model combines glioblastoma organoids with human brain tissue, allowing for the tracking of tumor cell spread and the visualization of fine structures.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalNature Protocols·DateJul 28, 2026

Topline results from LiBBY trial show THC/CBD combination significantly reduces agitation for people with dementia at end of life

A Phase 2 clinical trial shows that a THC/CBD combination significantly reduces agitation in hospice-eligible people with dementia. The study, conducted across multiple US sites, achieved its primary and key secondary endpoints, demonstrating the efficacy of this treatment approach for end-of-life agitation.

Simple triage protocol cuts ER wait times without adding beds or staff, new study finds

A simple data-driven triage protocol has been developed to identify patients who can safely receive care in a seated treatment area, reducing emergency department length of stay by 11 minutes. The approach uses information already collected during triage and requires no additional staff or resources.

AI tool helps predict bowel cancer relapse risk

A new AI tool developed by La Trobe University researchers can analyze routine pathology slides to predict stage-two bowel cancer patients at risk of relapse. The study analyzed over 1600 pathology slides and validated the findings across 1220 patients in three independent cohorts.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalGastroenterology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 28, 2026

Lithuanian scientists propose a greener alternative for fire‑resistant concrete

Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology have developed a greener alternative for fire-resistant concrete using waste-based geopolymer mortars. These materials retain high compressive strength even after exposure to extreme heat, making them ideal for construction applications where high temperatures are present.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

SNU team develops “nanomace” catalyst with up to 14× higher greenhouse gas decomposition performance

The SNU team developed a new nanostructured catalyst, termed 'nanomace,' by chemically bonding ceria nanocubes and nanorods. The interface where the two crystal structures meet serves as a key active site, enhancing lattice oxygen activation and catalytic reactions.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Children who miss preschool more likely to start school behind, major Curtin study finds

A Curtin University study found that children who attend preschool before starting school are significantly more likely to arrive ready to learn. The study, which analyzed over 123,000 Western Australian children, also showed that preschool attendance was associated with better developmental outcomes across every area of child developm...

SourceCurtin University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

‘Rivers in the sky’ influence marine heatwaves

A new study by Duke University researchers found that atmospheric rivers contribute to marine heatwaves, with a strong association in winter months. The team's analysis of satellite data revealed that active atmospheric rivers often precede peak marine heatwave temperatures, suggesting a causal link.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2026

Smarter learning, smarter AI: new method uses multidimensional graphs to personalize online education

A new study introduces a novel approach to personalized learning resource recommendation, treating resources as part of an intricate knowledge network. The Unified Learning Resource Recommendation Method (ULRRM) integrates multidimensional graph information to deliver accurate and context-aware recommendations.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Digital Education·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

University of Sussex neuroscientists reveal limits of human compassion for global crises

A new study from the University of Sussex reveals that neural responses are surprisingly low for large numbers of lives at risk and for lives lost overseas. The study found an inverted U-pattern response across the number of lives at risk in countries abroad, with a unique pattern for overseas lives.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Building your immunity: Tissue-resident immune cells defend human lungs from viral, bacterial, and fungal infections

A recent study found that human lung tissue contains a vast reservoir of tissue-resident memory T cells (T RM cells) capable of targeting a range of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. These cells reside only in the lungs and can live for years, providing a vital line of defense against severe respiratory infections.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Children's Hospital Colorado helps shape national standards for neurodevelopmental and neurocognitive care in sickle cell disease

New national standards recommend earlier screening and lifelong monitoring for development and cognition in individuals with SCD, aiming to reduce variability in care. The guidance, developed in collaboration with Children's Colorado, provides a tiered approach to care, including surveillance and evaluation.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado·JournalPediatric Blood & Cancer·DateJul 28, 2026

Guava leaf extract shows promise against diabetes-related lipid problems and oxidative stress: a study in rats

A study in rats found that guava leaf extract significantly lowered fasting blood glucose levels and improved lipid profiles, including reductions in cholesterol and triglycerides. The extract also boosted antioxidant defenses and reduced oxidative stress, suggesting a potential therapeutic effect against diabetes-related complications.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalGlucolipid Metabolic Disorders·DateJul 28, 2026

A new way to examine the cornea. Nine points at once

Researchers developed a prototype imaging system that can simultaneously track the cornea's mechanical response at nine locations, allowing for more accurate assessment of corneal biomechanics. This technology has the potential to improve early detection and monitoring of disorders like keratoconus.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Mycelium from wild mushrooms and local agro-waste from Sri Lanka turned into sustainable alternatives to synthetic packaging materials

Researchers developed innovative mycelium-based composites using locally sourced fungal strains and lignocellulosic waste materials from Sri Lanka. The study introduces a sustainable approach to replacing synthetic protective packaging materials like expanded polystyrene, which are associated with significant environmental pollution.

SourceSciOpen·JournalMycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology·DateJul 28, 2026

Breaking the boundaries of light management: Xi'an Jiaotong University team achieves low-cost, roll-to-roll production of "3D nanobowl" light-trapping films with ultra-high haze

A team from Xi'an Jiaotong University creates a novel flexible film with multiply indented, hybrid 3D-nanobowls, achieving ultra-high haze and excellent light transmittance. The roll-to-roll manufacturing process enables large-scale production at low cost.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateJul 28, 2026

Artificial-intelligence-driven electromyography adaptation for elderly assistance at physiological, functional, and behavioral levels

A new AI-driven EMG control framework has been developed to improve elderly assistance. The framework uses a 3-level approach to translate EMG signals into robotic assistive actions across various levels. It shows improved results in physiological signal labeling, functional multijoint intent decoding, and behavioral task adaptation.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateJul 28, 2026

Heatwave exposure accelerates biological aging via metabolic dysregulation

A recent study found that recurrent heatwave exposure is linked to accelerated biological aging in middle-aged and older adults. The research, using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, discovered that increased heatwave frequency and duration lead to disruptions in lipid and glucose metabolism, ultimately acce...

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateJul 28, 2026

Genomic insights unlocked: adaptive divergence of Capsella bursa-pastoris across altitudinal gradients

A recent study published in Biological Diversity reveals that ecological selection drives population differentiation and local adaptation in Capsella bursa-pastoris, a widely distributed annual herb. Genome-wide scans identified 54 candidate genes under positive selection related to energy metabolism and other processes.

SourceSouth China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalBiological Diversity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

Mesolithic hunter-gatherers on Malta

Researchers estimate that Mesolithic foragers occupied Malta between 8,500 and 7,500 years ago, surviving on the island due to long-distance sea crossings. The authors predict a population size of up to 419 individuals, which dropped to 170 by 9,000 years ago, suggesting a temporary or seasonal occupation.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 28, 2026

Nanotube connections between social amoebae

Researchers discovered tunneling nanotubes that physically connect the membranes of cells in social amoebae, enabling the transfer of cytoplasmic components and organelles. These connections are found in multicellular organisms but were previously unknown in unicellular lineages.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 28, 2026

Hanyang University ERICA researchers uncover a hidden battery flaw that may shorten EV lifespans

A new study by Hanyang University ERICA researchers reveals how air exposure can trigger chemical changes in manganese-coated batteries, accelerating degradation. The team proposes a simple solution to suppress defective surface phases and restore stable manganese-oxygen bonding, leading to improved long-term durability.

SourceHanyang University Research Strategy Planning Team·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

AI-designed metamaterials pave the way for high-speed spin-wave computing

Researchers developed an inverse-design framework to optimize magnonic crystal design, identifying unconventional lattice structures with large band gaps. The approach enables the exploration of previously unexplored material systems and device dimensions, paving the way for high-speed spin-wave computing and energy-efficient devices

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalSmall Structures·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 28, 2026

Pusan National University study highlights federated and reinforcement learning for natural language processing

The review explores how integrating Federated Learning (FL), Reinforcement Learning (RL), and Natural Language Processing (NLP) can overcome modern NLP system limitations, such as protecting user privacy and adapting to changing environments. The study presents a unified framework that combines FL, RL, and NLP as three co-equal pillars.

SourcePusan National University·JournalComputer Science Review·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 28, 2026

AI-powered camera system offers low-cost way to monitor bumblebees, potentially other insects

Researchers at Oregon State University developed a low-cost, semi-automated camera system using AI to monitor bumblebee populations and other insects. The system recorded six species of bumblebees, closely matching those documented through traditional methods, and identified them automatically using custom-built deep learning models.

SourceOregon State University·JournalRemote Sensing in Ecology and Conservation·DateJul 28, 2026

Largest-ever genetic study of fibromyalgia points to a neurological origin of the disorder and opens the door to new treatments

A landmark study identifies new genetic risk factors associated with fibromyalgia syndrome, pointing to a neurological origin of the disorder. The research found substantial overlap between fibromyalgia and other conditions, suggesting shared biological mechanisms that may benefit from targeted therapies.

SourceLunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

New antibiotic mechanism triggers hope for new treatments in fight against resistance

Scientists at the University of Exeter have discovered two new mechanisms for how a well-established antibiotic works, which could lead to potential development of new antibiotic treatment. The study found that doxycycline targets the bacterial ribosome by blocking protein exit channels or reconfiguring it into an inactive state.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Brain-inspired AI developed by Graz University of Technology is capable of flexible planning and problem-solving

The brain-inspired AI model employs human problem-solving strategies to solve complex problems, consuming significantly less energy than traditional large language models. The system utilizes cognitive maps to guide its approach, allowing it to adapt flexibly to changing situations without requiring retraining.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateJul 28, 2026