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Science News for June 25, 2026


HKUST researchers develop GenAI framework for misalignment-resistant virtual staining to accelerate histopathology workflows

Researchers at HKUST have developed a novel GenAI framework called Decoupled Generation and Registration (DGR) that can produce high-fidelity virtually stained images even when training image pairs are imperfectly aligned. DGR demonstrated stronger overall performance in image quality and structural fidelity across multiple tasks compa...

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

A cleaner sodium boost for better batteries

A new study reports a residue-free electrolyte additive, sodium trifluoromethanesulfinate (NaSO₂CF₃), designed to improve initial efficiency, cycle life, and manufacturability in sodium-ion batteries. The additive improved Coulombic efficiency from 82.6% to 96.0% and maintained capacity retention after 600 cycles.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournaleScience·DateJun 25, 2026

New Strategy Improves Efficiency and Stability of Perovskite Solar Cells

Researchers developed a synergistic strategy using glutathione additives to improve the efficiency and stability of inverted perovskite solar cells. The approach enhances charge transport, reduces energy loss, and strengthens structural stability, resulting in high power conversion efficiency and operational stability.

Extended field of view achromatic meta-axicon cluster

A team of scientists developed a minimalist optical system for achromatic imaging based on a monolithic integrated meta-axicon cluster. The novel imaging paradigm combines natural wideband consistency and computational imaging technology to achieve large-aperture, wide field of view (FOV), broadband achromaticity, and high resolution.

Heatwaves turn nature against itself: How forests and soils fuel a dangerous air pollution feedback loop

New research reveals extreme heatwaves accelerate ozone and secondary organic aerosol formation through a synergy between plant-released chemicals and soil nitrogen emissions. This natural feedback loop can offset decades of anthropogenic pollution control, posing significant challenges for air quality management.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateJun 25, 2026

Japan’s small cities may face higher care burdens under the compact city policy

A study by Osaka Metropolitan University found that Japan's Location Optimization Plan can lead to higher care burdens in small municipalities. Small cities with populations under 50,000 saw increased Long-Term Care Insurance certification counts after adopting the policy, indicating rising service demands.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 2026

UT Health San Antonio researcher receives $400,000 Komen grant to study therapeutic yoga for breast cancer survivors

Amelie G. Ramirez is studying the impact of therapeutic yoga on health-related quality of life, fatigue and physical function in Hispanic breast cancer survivors. She aims to find culturally responsive ways to support recovery through a comparison of standard physical therapy and therapeutic yoga.

Double-bond character of phosphates in solid and liquid phases probed by oxygen K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy

Researchers investigated phosphate double-bond character in solid and liquid phases using oxygen K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The study found that the double-bond character increased with increasing negative charge in the solid phase, but decreased in aqueous solutions due to interactions between phosphates and Na+ ions.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Researchers at Saitama University reveal how atomic defects can program carbon quantum dots for future light-based technologies

Carbon quantum dots can be designed to absorb specific wavelengths using atomic defects, enabling targeted optical functions and applications. The study provides a predictive framework for designing defect-encoded CQDs with controlled excitonic behavior.

SourceSaitama University·JournalComputational Materials Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 25, 2026

Field-based homeless healthcare programs can significantly improve hypertension among homeless people

Researchers found that field-based homeless healthcare programs can improve the management of high blood pressure among homeless individuals, leading to a significant reduction in mortality and disability. The study suggests that these programs can have a positive impact on the health of people experiencing homelessness.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 2026

Mount Sinai scientists develop first fully human monoclonal antibody cocktail that protects against Nipah and Hendra viruses

Researchers have developed a dual-targeting strategy to combat emerging infectious diseases. A fully human monoclonal antibody cocktail provides complete protection against lethal Nipah virus infection, even when treatment is given after infection has begun.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

UCLA researchers awarded $1.7 million Department of Defense grant to advance next-generation CAR T-cell therapies for prostate cancer

Researchers at UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center receive $1.7M grant to advance CAR T-cell therapies for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. They will investigate a new approach combining engineered nanovial technology with single-cell analysis to rapidly evaluate and optimize dual-targeted CAR T-cell therapies.

Study: Family-based behavioral treatment for children who are overweight or obese can prevent metabolic disease later in life

A University at Buffalo study covering 40 years of data found that family-based behavioral treatment can prevent children from developing metabolic disease as adults. The treatment resulted in long-term improvements in health and reversed obesity status in nearly half of the participants.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalHealth Psychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 25, 2026

AI to reconstruct the diet of human ancestors

A study applies machine learning techniques to analyze 3D patterns of dental enamel wear generated during food chewing, allowing for the reconstruction of ancient diets. The research identifies key variables informative for classifying dental microwear and proposes an analytical framework open to the scientific community.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Healing where it hurts: Researchers develop a new approach for treating wounds

A new approach for treating wounds involves delivering hydrogen sulfide directly to the wound site using a bandage-like device. This localized delivery aims to improve circulation, promoting oxygen and nutrient-rich blood flow to damaged tissue. The research team is exploring how this approach can work alongside current standards of ca...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Biological Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Toward compact and efficient generative AI: SNU researchers demonstrate AI semiconductor integrating core image-generation functions

The study successfully integrates probabilistic sampling and deterministic computation in generative AI hardware within a single ferroelectric memory array. The technology enables the generation of diverse images reflecting facial attributes, improving area and power efficiency in applications.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Armed conflict is associated with an increased measles burden, both directly and indirectly through associations with lower socioeconomic development and greater population displacement, according to modelling study across 193 countries from 2000-2023

A modelling study across 193 countries found armed conflict is associated with a higher measles burden. The study also suggests that conflict has an indirect impact on the spread of measles through its effects on lower socioeconomic development and greater population displacement.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 25, 2026

Scheduling surgeons: UMass Amherst researchers identify factors that could influence hospital efficiency

A study at Baystate Medical Center identified factors such as emergency surgeries, chest and heart procedures, and taxing operations affecting surgeons' schedules. These insights aim to optimize surgical scheduling, reduce waste, and improve patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 2026

New insights into human vision

Researchers have determined the three-dimensional structure of human cone opsins in their dark state, shedding light on how they rapidly activate with light. This breakthrough provides new insights into human vision and its evolution, potentially offering new avenues for treating eye diseases.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

SNU researchers develop generative AI technology for designing DNA nanostructures in arbitrary shapes

Researchers at Seoul National University developed an automated design platform using generative AI to create complex DNA origami structures with curved and irregular geometries. The technology, Generative SNUPI, enables users to fabricate DNA nanostructures that can undergo shape transformations and be assembled modularly.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Flowering plants diversified seed dispersal strategies earlier than thought, study suggests

A recent study analyzing Late Cretaceous fossils found diverse fruit and seed morphologies in flowering plants, challenging the traditional timeline for their reproductive evolution. The discovery expands our understanding of forest ecology and plant-animal interactions during angiosperm evolutionary history.

SNU researchers develop nanopatterning technology for precise design and control of ‘disorder’

Researchers develop methodology to precisely design and control degree of disorder in nanopattern structures, enabling new possibilities for wave-controlling devices. The technology also reveals tailored physical properties for functional materials with wide-range control over disorder.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Using AI to tackle global superbug crisis

A new framework tests AI reliability in antibiotic development, highlighting its potential to speed up the discovery of new antibiotics. The study found that while AI models were good at spotting known antibiotic structures, they struggled to explain their reasoning, a critical step towards trustworthiness.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Cheminformatics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

A Csp–π–d conjugated system enables a breakthrough in electrocatalytic oxygen reduction performance

Researchers develop Csp–π–d conjugated system to enhance oxygen reduction performance, outperforming platinum-based catalysts in stability and cost-effectiveness. The new catalyst facilitates electron transfer and weakens OH adsorption, promoting intermediate desorption and accelerating reaction kinetics.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Researchers reveal nearly isotropic superconducting property in trilayer nickelate

The study reveals a nearly isotropic upper critical field in trilayer nickelate La4Ni3O10-δ under high pressure, unlike most layered superconductors. This unusual feature arises from the combined effect of two types of electronic states that balance out to lead to an overall nearly isotropic superconducting response.

Controlling cystitis by targeting the source of pain with new therapies

A new study by Flinders University reveals that targeting specific pain receptors in the bladder can reduce debilitating effects of cystitis. The research suggests that activating certain cannabinoid receptors could provide relief from bladder pain and urinary urgency associated with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS).

SourceFlinders University·JournalAutonomic Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center receives 2026 award for advancing adolescent health and health equity

The Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center has received the 2026 Community Health Improvement Award from HANYS, recognizing its decades-long leadership in comprehensive, confidential, equitable care for adolescents and young adults. The award honors the Center's commitment to improving public health and advancing health equity.

New research makes critical discovery for the global fight against antibiotic resistance

Researchers discovered a combination regimen of two β-lactam antibiotics resulted in faster and greater killing of bacteria than using each antibiotic alone. The pairing suppressed resistance to both antibiotics, offering a promising approach to optimising and personalising antibiotic regimens against life-threatening infections.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Tuning platinum for cleaner hydrogen

Researchers developed a new catalyst that accelerates water dissociation and hydrogen adsorption, enabling faster hydrogen evolution reaction activity and stronger stability. The study presents a TiO₂ QDs/Co₃O₄ symbiotic oxide support that precisely regulates Pt clusters for alkaline hydrogen production.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournaleScience·DateJun 25, 2026

Reversible switching of chirality in semiconductor material using electrochemistry

A team of researchers from Science Tokyo has developed a new method to reversibly switch the chirality of semiconductor materials using electrochemistry. This innovation enables the creation of spin-polarized currents in layered non-chiral semiconductors, opening up new directions for developing ultrafast and energy-efficient devices.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Single cells reveal a scar-fibrosis regulator

Researchers identified a distinct fibrotic fibroblast population in hypertrophic scars, which they linked to the transcription factor Yin Yang 1 (YY1). Restoring YY1 expression reduced scar-associated fibroblast activation, providing new insights into scar fibrosis and potential therapeutic strategies.

SourceBurns & Trauma·JournalBurns & Trauma·DateJun 25, 2026

Language models read doctors’ notes to reveal why patients discontinue medication

Large language models can accurately identify reasons for medication discontinuation from doctors' electronic clinical notes, revealing that adverse reactions are a common cause. The study uses this approach to transform clinical free text into analyzable data, supporting evidence-based decision-making in health policy.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 2026

Oncology drug resistance prediction tools: Database infrastructure, algorithmic innovation, and clinical translation

Artificial intelligence is being harnessed to integrate multi-omics data from large-scale repositories such as TCGA and GDSC to decode tumour drug resistance. The review advocates for explainable AI frameworks, multimodal fusion strategies, and dynamic liquid-biopsy monitoring to address barriers to clinical adoption.

SourceFAR Publishing Limited·JournalCurrent Molecular Pharmacology·DateJun 25, 2026

MiR-29a as a molecular target in cancer: Prevention strategies with natural products

Researchers identified miR-29a as a pivotal regulator of cancer development, which can act as both a tumor suppressor and an oncogene. Natural bioactive compounds such as curcumin, EGCG, and resveratrol have been shown to restore normal miR-29a expression through epigenetic remodeling and inhibition of oncogenic signaling pathways.

SourceFAR Publishing Limited·JournalCurrent Molecular Pharmacology·DateJun 25, 2026

Newborn deaths from birth injuries and prematurity are falling—but Africa’s slowdown threatens global 2040 targets

Global newborn mortality from birth asphyxia and trauma has declined, but progress is slowing in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Countries with lower scores on human development indices experienced slower mortality declines, highlighting the need for targeted investments to close the equity gap.

SourceZhejiang University·JournalWorld Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 25, 2026

Inhaled vitamin D has potential to improve lung function

Research suggests that inhaled vitamin D can protect against dust, pollution, and pathogens in the lungs, potentially improving outcomes for those with chronic lung disease. Human clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings and explore the therapeutic benefits of direct lung delivery.

SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 25, 2026

Imaging microscale thermal properties of thermal interface materials using frequency-domain thermoreflectance microscopy

Researchers developed a frequency-domain thermoreflectance microscopy approach to visualize thermal conductivity and interfacial thermal conductance in thermal interface materials. The study reveals pronounced microscale heterogeneity, with high- and low-conductivity zones observed in particle-loaded thermal greases.

SourceScience Exploration Press·JournalThermo-X·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Smell and taste disturbances among GLP-1 RA users

A recent study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery reveals a higher incidence of smell and taste disturbances among GLP-1 RA users. The findings underscore the importance of regular monitoring and awareness to mitigate these adverse effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateJun 25, 2026

Metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic regulation: The dual role of lactate and lactylation in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression and therapeutics

A recent review highlights the pivotal role of lactate and lactylation in PDAC progression, including their function as alternative metabolic fuel, signaling molecule, and epigenetic regulator. Therapeutic strategies targeting lactate metabolism offer promise, but clinical translation faces significant hurdles.

SourceFAR Publishing Limited·JournalCurrent Molecular Pharmacology·DateJun 25, 2026

Listening to whales – even when they make no sound

Scientists have discovered a way to track whales using fiber-optic cables by detecting low-frequency pressure waves generated by their movement. This method allows researchers to identify whale tracks even when the animals are not vocalizing, expanding their capabilities for remote sensing applications.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 25, 2026

Assessing clinical skills through the examiner's eyes

A pilot study found that an examiner-worn, neck-mounted camera can supplement the observation and review of clinical skills during OSCE assessments. The results showed moderate to strong agreement between live and video-based assessments, with the wearable camera enabling more observations to be evaluated than the fixed camera.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJMIR Medical Education·TypeObservational study·DateJun 25, 2026

Chonnam National University identifies dual-function rice gene that boosts drought tolerance and grain yield

Researchers identify OsFeSOD3 gene that supports chloroplast health while enhancing plant survival under drought conditions. This discovery could help overcome crop yield limitations and improve climate-resilient crops.

Self-propelled actin filaments: Novel structures driving spontaneous cell morphogenesis

Researchers reveal a previously unrecognized form of actin self-organization that may help explain how cells spontaneously generate shape and movement. Live-cell imaging and computational modeling show that these self-propelled treadmilling actin filaments (SpTAs) drive cellular protrusions through a process powered by treadmilling.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalEMBO Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Elsevier’s ClinicalKey Student adds StudyFinder AI to quickly connect medical students to trusted, verifiable content for more efficient studying

Elsevier's ClinicalKey Student now incorporates StudyFinder AI, providing students with access to trusted, evidence-based content and eliminating risks associated with generic AI tools. This enhancement aims to support medical students in making clinical decisions by leveraging verified sources from Elsevier textbooks and NICE guidelines.

Shorter strides can be an early warning sign of dementia in senior dogs, just as in people

A new study has found that changes in a senior dog's gait can be an early warning sign of dementia. The research tracked the stride length of 88 geriatric dogs over time, revealing a significant decrease in front leg stride length with worsening cognitive decline. This change was found to be more pronounced than age-related decline alone.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026