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Science News for September 25, 2026


Drones could speed up delivery of automated external defibrillators to patients suffering cardiac arrest

A new study found that drones can significantly reduce the time between cardiac arrest reporting and defibrillation, particularly in rural and congested areas. By combining fixed AEDs with drones, access times can be reduced by up to 3.76 minutes, with over 95% of cases covered within five minutes.

SourceEuropean Society for Emergency Medicine (EUSEM)·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 25, 2026

High-altitude wetland reveals a distinctive genetic signature in DNA polymerase genes

Researchers discovered a distinctive pattern in DNA polymerase genes from China's Napahai plateau wetland, suggesting the unique geography and environmental conditions of the wetland contribute to the genetic diversity of microbial communities. This finding raises the possibility that DNA polymerase genes could serve as biogeographical...

SourceShenyang Agricultural University Collaborative Journals·JournalEnvironmental and Biogeochemical Processes·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

USF Health researchers uncover a hidden brain region that helps regulate metabolism

USF Health researchers have uncovered a previously unknown brain region, the dorsal posterior periventricular hypothalamic nucleus, which plays a crucial role in regulating metabolic health in response to cold temperatures. The discovery offers a potential new pathway for developing treatments to improve metabolic function and prevent ...

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

NTU Singapore scientists supercharge plant immunity to boost its natural defence response

NTU Singapore scientists have developed a method to strengthen plant immunity by grouping immune receptors together, allowing plants to detect disease-causing microbes more effectively. The approach shows promise for potential crop applications in the future, including disease-resistant vegetable seeds and crops.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

Brains rising above the neural noise

Researchers analyzed brain activity in mice to find that neural scaling laws allow information to grow beyond a ceiling imposed by shared noise. The study, published in Science Advances, suggests that brains can process more information than previously thought.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2026

By shaping and shrinking light, engineers alter a material's magnetic properties

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a new approach to switch magnetic states using light, which could lead to faster and more efficient data storage. By shaping and shrinking light, they were able to overcome limitations of previous methods and achieve optical switching in thicker magnetic materials.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2026

University of Montana researchers study using birding to improve stroke outcomes

Researchers at the University of Montana are using birding as a low-pressure setting to encourage communication and conversation among stroke survivors with aphasia. The Big Sky Aphasia Program, which combines community- and curiosity-driven bird-related activities, has shown promising results in improving outcomes for participants. Th...

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalFrontiers in Bird Science·DateSep 25, 2026

Solving Alzheimer’s with math? Researcher explores the possibilities

Researchers are using mathematical modeling to examine the influence of common metals on protein aggregation in Alzheimer's disease. A new model developed by Mississippi State University Associate Professor Shantia Yarahmadian successfully reproduced patterns seen in laboratory experiments, providing insights into potential therapies.

SourceMississippi State University·JournalBulletin of Mathematical Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 25, 2026

Randomized trial finds Transcendental Meditation improves happiness, resilience and self-efficacy in rural Lebanese women

A randomized controlled trial found that three months of Transcendental Meditation practice significantly increased happiness, resilience, and self-efficacy among rural Lebanese women while reducing perceived stress. The study showed that Transcendental Meditation may offer women an additional way to cope with daily life pressures.

SourceMaharishi International University·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 25, 2026

Researchers make discovery hafnium oxide is antiferroelectric, and could power modern electronics

A team of researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has discovered that hafnium oxide is inherently antiferroelectric, a rare quality found in few materials. This breakthrough could lead to the development of high-performance capacitors, solid-state cooling systems, and more efficient computer memory.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

Sage launches Disinformation: An Interdisciplinary Journal

The new journal will feature theoretical, empirical, and methodological research on disinformation, as well as an Interventions and Commentary section. It aims to critically interrogate disinformation and its impact on societies, with a focus on international perspectives and collaboration.

SourceSAGE·DateSep 25, 2026

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine Ahead-of-Print Tip Sheet: September 25, 2026

Recent studies published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine have investigated new treatments for liver fibrosis, thyroid cancer, and prostate cancer, including the use of PET tracers and radioactive iodine therapy. These studies have shown promising results, including improved imaging and biochemical responses, and increased radiation ...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 25, 2026

Higher pollution levels linked to slower marathon times across six world marathon majors

A study of 2.7 million marathon performances found that higher air pollution levels were associated with slower finishing times, particularly in recreational runners. Nitrogen dioxide levels were strongly linked to finishing times, with effects six times larger for recreational runners than elite athletes.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalSports Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2026

NUS CDE researchers design AI hardware that filters out irrelevant visual data

Researchers at NUS CDE have developed a reconfigurable transistor that can switch between filtering image data and performing AI network functions, reducing energy consumption and improving accuracy in handwritten-digit recognition simulations. The device uses a spiking neural network-in-logic architecture to selectively pass relevant ...

SourceNational University of Singapore College of Design and Engineering·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

Can AI help bridge the public health gap?

A new study by Ateneo researchers explores the cost-effectiveness of AI-assisted chest radiograph interpretation in isolated and disadvantaged Filipino communities. The study finds that AI-assisted interpretation is estimated to be more cost-effective than manual interpretation, with a potential annual cost savings of Php 877,330. The ...

SourceAteneo de Manila University·JournalBMC Health Services Research·DateSep 25, 2026

Generative AI for Retail Innovation

The book explores how generative AI is reshaping retail through AI-driven capabilities, creating value, and meeting evolving consumer expectations. It covers topics like AI-powered personalization, conversational commerce, and intelligent supply chains, offering a balanced perspective on AI-enabled retailing.

Hue cares? Cornell study says wine color isn't the whole picture

A Cornell University study found that consumers don't consistently judge wine quality based on color, with hybrid grape wines ranking among the most visually appealing. The research, published in the American Journal of Enology and Viticulture, also showed that taste and aroma are more important factors in overall quality perception.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Enology and Viticulture·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2026

From a baby's smile to a monkey's grin: how emotions shape our behaviour

A new special issue explores how and why we express emotions, and how humans and animals shape their behavior and social worlds through smiles, glances, and body language. Researchers examine the origins and development of emotional expressions, their roles in behavior and social lives, and their commonalities across species.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateSep 25, 2026

Hidden protein helps cells divide correctly

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have identified a previously unknown protein, MSEP, that helps cells divide correctly by maintaining the cellular machinery that pulls chromosomes apart. The protein is encoded by an RNA molecule, ARHGEF17-AS1, which also has a function in cell division.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

“Beyond the Brain” honored at Cannes

The documentary series 'Beyond the Brain' has been recognized for its scientific approach and rigorous examination of human consciousness, featuring over 50 researchers and experts from international institutions. The series has gained international recognition for its ability to address complex topics without oversimplifying them.

“Public reputation” or “Personal experience”?

A study found that people evaluate others' non-cooperative behavior more based on their personal experience, even if the person has a bad reputation. In contrast, cooperative behavior is generally evaluated positively regardless of reputation or personal experience. The study suggests that people use a combination of reputation and per...

SourceRissho University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateSep 25, 2026

How quickly people aged during midlife predicted memory lapses 10 years later

A study by Penn State researchers found that people who aged faster during midlife were more likely to experience memory lapses a decade later. The study, which analyzed data from 232 individuals, found that those who were aging rapidly were 18% more likely to experience a prospective memory lapse on any given day.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2026

DFG to fund nine new research units

The DFG is establishing nine new Research Units, receiving €40 million in funding, and extending six existing units and one Centre for Advanced Studies. These initiatives focus on pressing issues in research, such as wetland conservation, media practices of contradiction, and transformative climate law.

Metastatic colorectal cancer is more advanced in younger patients than older ones, but they survive longer with the disease, study finds

A retrospective cohort study of 50,802 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer found that younger patients (aged 45 and younger) had longer median disease-specific survival and a higher rate of 10-year survival compared to older patients. Younger patients were also more likely to have tumors in the left-sided colon and rectum, and a...

E-scooter trauma admissions nearly double as youngest riders are hurt most severely

E-scooter trauma admissions increased 92% from 2021 to 2023, with young riders sustaining more severe injuries. Helmet use was documented in only 12% of cases, and nearly two-thirds of injured riders under 16 sustained major injuries. Researchers call for increased caution and awareness among e-scooter riders, particularly children.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2026

Prostate cancer surgery and radiation have different long-term effects on urinary, sexual, and survival outcomes

A national study of 20,000 men with prostate cancer found that surgery led to higher rates of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, while radiation was associated with urinary complications and higher all-cause mortality. Researchers emphasized that both treatments have long-term consequences and that risks and benefits should...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2026

JMIR news: Patient simulator robots, participation fraud in online research, and more

Researchers highlight the importance of human moderation and algorithmic misinformation tagging in online patient support communities and online research. Mobile apps and patient simulator robots also play a crucial role in digitizing health records and training rural clinicians for rare emergencies.

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 25, 2026

High-tech canopy maps reveal how tropical birds use Amazon forests

Researchers used aircraft-mounted sensors to map chemical and structural differences in forest canopies across Peru, comparing them to over 1,300 bird species. The study found that forest type influences bird traits, such as body size and reproductive strategies, and prioritizes conservation efforts based on these differences.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2026

Researchers link brain injury to brain tumors

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that stroke promotes glioma growth and tumor microenvironment changes, linking brain injury to malignant brain tumors. The study found that stroke triggers the emergence of tumor-associated astrocytes with reduced calcium activity, which suppresses glioma progression.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

ILC2 cells emerge as key cellular interfaces bridging nervous and immune systems

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) form tight anatomical associations with sensory, autonomic, and enteric nerve fibers, receiving neural regulation through activating and inhibitory pathways. ILC2s also secrete cytokines that can act back on neurons, forming positive feedback loops that modulate allergic and anti-infective immunity.

SourceImmunity & Inflammation·JournalImmunity & Inflammation·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 25, 2026

New tool closes gap on untapped potential of phages

A new tool allows for genome-wide mutagenesis of bacteriophages, enabling researchers to identify essential and non-essential genes for phage survival. This method enables rapid engineering of phage genomes to improve therapeutic potential, particularly for tackling biofilms and bacterial infections.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 25, 2026

Chonnam University researchers discover how a century-old solvent can solve efficient amide synthesis

Researchers at Chonnam National University discovered a century-old solvent, dichloromethane, can efficiently synthesize amide bonds. The breakthrough method enables scalable and cost-effective amide synthesis, reducing waste and using benign byproducts.

SourceChonnam National University, The Research Information Management Team, Office of Research Promotion·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

China reports real-world surgical outcomes for 6,297 pancreatic cancer patients

A Chinese registry report presents real-world perioperative and survival outcomes for surgically treated pancreatic cancer patients, achieving high overall survival rates and encouraging surgical safety metrics. The study emphasizes the need for national-level benchmarks and standardized clinical protocols for pancreatic surgery in China.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Pancreatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2026

Pupils respond not only to “what we see” but also to “how we evaluate it”

Researchers found that pupils constricted in response to higher glossiness ratings, but dilated in response to higher attractiveness ratings, highlighting the influence of evaluative tasks on pupillary responses. The study contributes to our understanding of the complex relationships between visual perception, attention, and emotion.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalJournal of Vision·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2026

New tools pinpoint where urban trees could provide the most relief from heat

Researchers at UBC have developed tools that combine high-resolution satellite heat mapping with shade and equity modelling to identify urban hot spots and determine where new trees can deliver the greatest benefits. The tools can pinpoint areas as small as 700 square metres, about the footprint of a large residential lot, and suggest ...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 25, 2026

AI and urban design for health: Are large language models ethical advisers?

A new study evaluated the ethical properties of large language models (LLMs) in generating advice for urban design and health, finding that they avoid harm but lack consistency on community participation and human oversight. The study suggests that LLMs could serve as an initial input for urban designers, but should not replace profess...

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalDevelopments in the Built Environment·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 25, 2026