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Science News for September 1, 2026


Light-driven molecular reorientation for large-scale photonic in-memory computing

A new platform using liquid-crystal Poincaré-sphere-connected diffractive neural networks enables large-scale photonic in-memory computing with minimal data-movement overheads and ultralow static power. It achieves a 100,000-fold improvement in memory capacity over state-of-the-art platforms.

Multifunctional frequency modulated continuous wave LiDAR for simultaneous 3D imaging and multi-parameter sensing

A new LiDAR system enables simultaneous 3D imaging and multi-parameter sensing for electric vehicle safety. The system accurately measures temperature, gas concentrations, and liquid density, and has potential applications in new energy vehicles and spacecraft.

Engineered thickness-gradient electrolytes resolve current and thermal imbalances in solid oxide fuel cells

Researchers developed a thickness-gradient electrolyte to homogenize current distribution in solid oxide fuel cells, reducing current density deviation by up to 80% and improving durability. The electrolyte's layered structure boosts electrochemical reaction rates while suppressing excessive local current.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalENGINEERING Energy·TypeNews article·DateSep 1, 2026

Musicians’ brains stay one step ahead, study finds

Researchers found that musicians can predict what happens next in movement sequences faster than non-musicians. Visual distractions can disrupt new motor memories, affecting practice sessions and skill learning, the study suggests. The findings have implications for rehabilitation, sports training, and music education.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalPsychological Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2026

New method puts a twist on creating efficient micromixers

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a new method for creating efficient micromixers inside polymer fibers, enabling rapid mixing of minute amounts of liquid. The twisted microchannels fabricated using this method promote mixing even at low Reynolds numbers, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceTohoku University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 1, 2026

Storytelling apes: Are you sitting comfortably….

Researchers propose that fireside storytelling was critical to the evolution of sophisticated language, allowing humans to extend social time and create a deep sense of social connection. The unique properties of firelight, including its flickering and infra-red emission, may have played a key role in this process.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2026

Widely-used back braces lack strong evidence for chronic low back pain

A new Cochrane review of 8 randomized controlled trials involving over 500 adults found little to no benefit from widely-used back braces in managing chronic low back pain. The research suggested that the use of lumbar supports may be more common in lower-income countries where active treatment alternatives are less accessible.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 1, 2026

KAIST skin-conformable micro-LED mask boosts skin rejuvenation, brightening, and synergistic benefits with polynucleotide (PN) injections

A KAIST-developed micro-LED mask boosts skin rejuvenation and brightening through close skin contact, while PN injections provide synergistic benefits for skin regeneration and recovery. The mask achieves 340% greater improvement in deep skin elasticity than conventional LED masks.

Breathing without brakes

University of Connecticut researchers found that Rett syndrome symptoms are caused by a lack of dopamine in the carotid body, leading to unstable breathing. This discovery may lead to new treatments for Rett syndrome and other diseases involving dopamine imbalance.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2026

Human mobility emerges as powerful lever for decarbonising wastewater treatment, study finds

Researchers found that tracking population movements using mobile location data can significantly cut emissions without expensive infrastructure upgrades. The study developed a new metric to measure treatment-inflow alignment, revealing that population dynamics can inform operational strategies to reduce emissions.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateSep 1, 2026

Researchers study a centaur transforming into a comet

Researchers using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope and Gemini Observatory study a distant icy object, Centaur 450P/LONEOS, as it awakens and releases gas and dust, behavior more commonly associated with comets. The study provides new insight into how centaurs evolve into active comets as they migrate inward through the solar system.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalPlanetary Science·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2026

Department of Energy awards University of Houston-led team $2.88M to use AI to strengthen America’s critical mineral supply chain

Researchers aim to develop new magnets that reduce American reliance on supply-vulnerable foreign sources by finding alternatives to critical minerals. The UH-led team will use AI to design and manufacture next-generation permanent magnets, with the goal of surpassing industry-standard materials like neodymium iron boron.

SwRI-led modeling identifies new scenarios for Moon formation

Researchers have discovered that material strength and temperature can significantly impact the formation of the Moon. The study suggests that a Mars-sized object collided with Earth, but the simulations previously ignored material strength, which is now found to matter. The results imply a potential connection between the Moon's compo...

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2026

Penn Nursing study: Youth suicide risk remains high in violent neighborhoods, despite post-pandemic recovery

A new study published in Pediatrics found that adolescent suicide risk remains elevated in high-violence neighborhoods even as overall post-pandemic shooting rates decline. The study analyzed over 71,000 primary care visits for Philadelphia-area teens and found that community violence continues to impact youth mental health.

Toxic metals above set limits found in 12% of children’s toys on the El Paso-Cd. Juárez border

Researchers found that 78% of children's toys in the El Paso-Ciudad Juárez region contain at least one toxic element, with nickel being the most common cause of allergic reactions. The study, led by the University of Texas at El Paso, highlights the need for harmonized safety standards and better labeling to protect children from poten...

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateSep 1, 2026

New math tames GNSS chaos when signals go haywire

A new framework generalizes Gaussian success-rate bounds to a broad family of heavy-tailed distributions, preserving computational simplicity. This enables accurate characterization of robustness against realistic non-Gaussian disturbances in GNSS positioning, urban canyons, autonomous vehicles, and safety-critical applications.

End of free school meal program led to increased stress and hunger, poorer diets, and reduced focus, say teachers

Teachers in the Anchorage School District observed increased student hunger and stress, junk food consumption, and reduced focus after the universal free school meal program ended in 2022. The study, published in Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, found that teachers perceived no benefits to the program's termination.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateSep 1, 2026

Elementary school teachers report increased student hunger and anxiety after universal free school meals ended

Elementary school teachers reported a significant increase in student hunger and anxiety after the federal universal free school meals policy ended. The study, published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, found that the policy helped reduce student hunger and family stress, but its expiration was associated with decrea...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2026

Damaged red blood cells can trigger inflammation

Researchers at Lund University have identified a mechanism by which heme, released from damaged red blood cells, activates an inflammatory response. The kallikrein-kinin system pathway was found to be involved, leading to increased permeability and fluid leakage in surrounding tissues.

SourceLund University·JournalKidney International·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2026

AI’s eye on the tropics

A University of Miami-led study found that AI can provide valuable additional guidance for predicting tropical cyclone development in the Atlantic Ocean. The AI system offered higher probabilities of development at longer lead times and improved location forecasting, but its performance decreased at shorter lead times.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalWeather and Forecasting·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 1, 2026

LED lets archaeologists see the past in a new light

Researchers from Aarhus University developed a low-cost multispectral imaging system that uses LEDs at 16 different wavelengths to reveal differences in materials. The system was tested at Sorte Muld and Fredbjerg, revealing new layers and changes in the fill that were difficult to distinguish in normal color photographs. This technolo...

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateSep 1, 2026

Breast density laws linked to higher ultrasound use after mammography

A new study found that laws requiring notification of dense breast tissue led to modest increases in follow-up imaging tests, while insurance mandates had a significant impact, increasing ultrasound use four times. This study examined the influence of notification laws and insurance coverage independently.

SourcePenn State·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 1, 2026

September 2026 issues of APA journals feature new research on treating substance use disorders, mood disorders, pediatric anxiety disorders, and more

The September 2026 issues of APA journals feature new research on treating substance use disorders, mood disorders, and pediatric anxiety disorders. Journal highlights include studies on the effects of parental social media use and the implementation of measurement-based care in mental health services.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 1, 2026

New study sheds light on how motor control develops

Researchers at the University of Ottawa have identified key neural changes behind motor control in zebrafish, which could provide insights into human movement development. By studying electrical currents in nerve cells, the team found that changes in these currents shape the refinement of movement in growing zebrafish, allowing them to...

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2026

Integrated bioinformatic modeling of goniothalamin as a dual-target medicinal chemistry candidate against antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli

Researchers discovered goniothalamin's strong binding affinities to bacterial proteins agrA and ftsZ, indicating a potential dual-target mechanism. This could lead to a new class of antibacterial agents that reduce virulence and resist resistance.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Medicinal Chemistry Journal·DateSep 1, 2026

Investigating mobile gaming addiction and musculoskeletal pain: A cross-sectional study among medical students in Jordanian universities

A cross-sectional study among 364 medical students found that those with mobile gaming addiction experienced significantly more pain in their neck, upper back, elbows, and wrists. Elbow pain was particularly common, with addicted students reporting over four times the risk of experiencing it compared to non-addicted peers.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Public Health Journal·DateSep 1, 2026

Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles show promise for earlier detection of metastatic risk

Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles exhibit intrinsic organotropism and participate in establishing premetastatic niches, making them promising vehicles for targeted imaging probe delivery. However, current imaging approaches have limitations, including difficulty distinguishing between tumor-derived EVs and normal host cell-derived EVs.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 1, 2026

Healthy aging: Training the mind and emotional skills helps keep the brain healthy

Two studies from SISSA show that cognitive reserve built over a lifetime, together with emotional resources, helps preserve mental abilities in adults over 65. Cognitive reserve improves language performance and working memory, while emotional intelligence influences responses to emotional stimuli.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2026

Researchers develop four hybrid gasoline blends with octane ratings of up to 102

The study reports the development of four new high-octane gasoline formulations using renewable fuel additives, achieving improved knock resistance, volatility, and combustion-related properties compared to base gasoline. The highest-grade formulation, HyperFuel-102, was developed with high-performance engines and applications in mind.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalThermal Science and Engineering Progress·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2026

New high-temperature, high-pressure isotope ratio analysis method for halogenated compounds

Researchers have developed a custom liquid chromatography–isotope ratio mass spectrometry device capable of high-temperature, high-pressure combustion to analyze halogenated compounds. The method provides a new tool for source identification and fate analysis, contributing to effective management strategies.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalAnalytica Chimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2026

New AI method helps robots learn from the past without being trapped by it

A new AI method called OMPO (Occupancy-Matching Policy Optimization) has been developed to help robots learn from past experiences without being trapped by changing conditions. OMPO uses a combination of historical data and recent interactions to stabilize reinforcement learning and adapt to policy and physical changes.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2026

New imaging technique reveals the inner workings of immune cells

Researchers have developed a nondestructive imaging technique to measure single-cell immune metabolism in real patient blood samples, providing a higher level of information than current clinical techniques. This breakthrough could improve disease diagnosis and treatment for conditions like blood cancers, lupus, and sepsis.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalBiophotonics Discovery·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 1, 2026

Walking performance and daily activity are linked to better quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis

A study by the University of Eastern Finland found that walking performance and daily physical activity are strongly associated with quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis. Lower disability levels and better walking performance were linked to better perceived quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders·DateSep 1, 2026

How close are we to building a digital copy of the human brain?

Researchers from the University of Warwick report that building a digital twin brain is shaped by the resolution, completeness, and updatability of biological measurements. The review charts a path toward dynamic models that update with new data and interact with the biological system. Digital twin brains have potential applications in...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Reviews Electrical Engineering·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 1, 2026

Extracting predictable signals from observational precipitation data: A new approach to seasonal precipitation prediction

The study develops a new climate prediction method called SFA-based Climate Prediction (SCP) that extracts predictable signals from precipitation data. It demonstrates higher prediction skill than two dynamical models and a hybrid dynamical–statistical system, providing a new approach for regional seasonal precipitation prediction.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateSep 1, 2026

Cancer cachexia: How a tumor protein drives wasting in the body

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have identified a tumor protein called ADAMTSL4 as a key driver of cancer cachexia, a wasting process that affects muscle and fat tissue. The protein locally activates the TGF-β signaling pathway, triggering a catabolic program that promotes muscle and fat breakdown.

Team develops sample preparation method for large-scale glycoproteomics

A research team has developed a reliable and economical method for studying proteins with sugar molecules attached to them in blood and tissue samples. The method uses commercially available magnetic particles and has the potential to aid in disease diagnosis and treatment.

SourceInstitute for Glyco-core Research (iGCORE), Tokai National Higher Education and Research System·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2026

Beyond threat lies the reward

Researchers at Hokkaido University found that dopamine signaling in the brain's striatum region enables animals to adapt to threats by shifting their focus towards rewards. After repeated exposure, dopamine activity decreases, allowing attention to shift towards opportunities for learning and reward-seeking behavior.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateSep 1, 2026

Targeted suppression of autoimmune response in MS

A new MS therapy uses peptide-coupled red blood cells to redirect the immune response, potentially stopping the disease without suppressing the immune system. The clinical trial shows promising results, with the therapy showing good tolerability and safety.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 1, 2026

Bees see the world in more ways than previously thought

Researchers have discovered that smaller bee species, such as bumblebees and solitary bees, possess sharper eyesight than previously believed. They can detect objects with higher visual resolution and fine detail than worker honey bees. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that large eyes are the key to sharp vision in bees.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 1, 2026

Large, long-term study finds ANA positivity in Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease does not predict rheumatic disease

A large, long-term study of 140 patients with Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease found that ANA positivity is common but transient, with minimal risk of progression to lupus or other connective tissue diseases. The study's findings provide reassuring evidence that patients with KFD can be reassured of their excellent prognosis.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalRheumatology & Autoimmunity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2026

Three distinct BMI trajectories identified in people with type 2 diabetes

A recent study identified three distinct BMI trajectories among people with type 2 diabetes, with stable, increasing, and decreasing trajectories associated with different comorbidities and healthcare service use. Increasing BMI was linked to a clustering of chronic diseases, while weight loss was not always indicative of better health...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice·DateSep 1, 2026

New study urges clinicians to address sex-based disparities in pneumonia management

A new study highlights biological sex-driven disparities in pneumonia management, including underrepresentation in diagnostic tests and antibiotic underexposure for women. The study advocates for tailoring antimicrobial therapy more precisely and integrating sex- and gender-aware research protocols to reduce inequities.

SourceJournal of Intensive Medicine·JournalJournal of Intensive Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2026

Frontiers in Science: Medical AI could move from treatment to prevention

The authors propose a spectrum of clinical autonomy, ranging from advisory tools to navigator systems that work with minimal human oversight, to enable early prediction and prevention of disease. However, challenges related to clinical validation, integration, data quality, and regulatory approval limit widespread deployment.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Science·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 1, 2026

Microwave-driven conversion of waste plastics to high-value chemicals:Progress, challenges, prospects

Researchers at Tsinghua University have developed microwave catalytic systems for the conversion of waste plastics into high-value chemicals. The technology achieves efficient and rapid conversion of various types of plastics, including polyesters, polyolefins, and others, with high yields and selectivity. The study highlights the pote...

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCarbon Future·DateSep 1, 2026

Novel ultra-fast oxidation testing method at 2300 ℃ reveals “structural-functional element synergy” in multi-principal component diborides

Researchers developed a rapid-heating furnace to test oxidation resistance of diboride ceramics at 2300 ℃. The Ti-containing composition exhibited superior oxidation resistance, with a dense outer layer and porous inner layer that buffered thermal stress accumulation.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateSep 1, 2026

Non-freezing high-active glassy polar nanoregions enable near-zero strain hysteresis in lead-free piezoelectric ceramics

Researchers at Guizhou University developed a lead-free ceramic material with near-zero strain hysteresis by introducing Sb³⁺ at the B-site and creating high-activity glassy polar nanoregions. The material exhibits a nearly linear strain loop under positive electric fields, demonstrating its potential for actuator applications.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateSep 1, 2026

New screening strategy for low-conductivity rare-earth tantalates could guide thermal-barrier coating design

Researchers developed a new screening strategy for low-conductivity rare-earth tantalates to improve thermal-barrier coating design. The new approach, which considers mean sound velocity and unit-cell volume, reveals a composition with lower lattice thermal conductivity at x = 0.8, contrary to the conventional point-defect parameter.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateSep 1, 2026

Breaking traditional ceramic aerogel processing limits: Room-temperature “ceramic papermaking” coupled with high-temperature CVI creates multiscale SiC fiber/nanowire aerogels for broadband EMW absorption and thermal protection integration

Scientists have developed a novel multiscale ceramic aerogel structure for thermal protection and EMW absorption, exhibiting ultralow density and exceptional thermal insulation. The aerogel demonstrated outstanding thermal shielding and

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateSep 1, 2026

Field ecology's working conditions shape both safety and science

A new viewpoint argues that field ecology's working conditions can heighten vulnerability to harassment, particularly for women of color and LGBTQ+ researchers. The author calls for prevention measures, including clear codes of conduct and team involvement, to ensure research team safety and prevent distortions in knowledge production.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 1, 2026

Investment in blood cancer research has saved nearly 26 million years of life, but major gaps in survival remain

Advances in blood cancer treatment have saved 25.8 million life-years, with significant gains for Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients. However, Black patients and those with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) continue to experience worse outcomes, highlighting the need for continued research investment.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateSep 1, 2026

Men with low or high testosterone may have higher risk of irregular heartbeat

A review of existing evidence on testosterone and heart health found that both low and high testosterone levels increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. The risk appears to follow a U-shaped pattern, with the lowest risk in the middle of the normal testosterone range. This suggests that treatment should be individualized and monitored.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateSep 1, 2026

Non-police safety practitioners reduce crime

Non-police safety practitioners in San Francisco reduced crime and disorder, particularly behavioral health-related incidents and drug crime, through consistent relationships and referrals to services. The program achieved significant reductions in crime rates by intervening early and preventing escalation.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 1, 2026

Anti-influenza therapies that target the host

Researchers have discovered a novel approach to treating influenza by targeting the host's machinery, rather than the virus itself. By binding to a key protein called nucleolin, two new drugs have been shown to trap and inhibit the replication of both pandemic and seasonal flu strains.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 1, 2026

Researchers discover dozens of genes tied to OCD and tic disorders

A Rutgers-led international team identified 36 genes linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and chronic tic disorders, providing a detailed biological understanding of how these conditions develop. The findings suggest that many of the genes are shared between the conditions and can be targeted using whole-network approaches.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 1, 2026

Electrifying discoveries: Researchers film the first moments on the way from light to electricity

Researchers successfully film the generation of electrical energy from light, providing a fundamental understanding of the physical processes involved in organic solar cells. The study, published in Physical Review X, reveals the spatial distribution and temporal evolution of excitons in the first moments of their existence.

SourceUniversity of Graz·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2026

To promote climate action, emotion matters more than information

A UNIGE study shows that climate communication campaigns designed to appeal to people's emotions, such as evoking a sense of wonder, are more effective at inspiring climate action than those relying solely on scientific facts. Messages that include images and draw on moral or ethical considerations also achieve better results.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeNews article·DateSep 1, 2026

Most chemicals in food packaging lack data needed to protect consumers – scientists propose a way forward

Scientists from the Food Packaging Forum Foundation propose a novel approach to better protect consumer health by grouping chemicals in food packaging and prioritizing them for regulatory review or phase-out. The approach can help policymakers and manufacturers overcome data gaps and prevent regrettable substitutions.

SourceFood Packaging Forum Foundation·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 1, 2026