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Science News for September 28, 2026


CityUHK researchers advance spatial omics to routine clinical use

Researchers from CityUHK have developed a sequencing-free approach for spatial omics analysis, enabling routine clinical use. The method, Spectrum-FISH, preserves spatial information in freshly prepared tissue samples and offers advantages in affordability and scalability.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Non-invasive nerve stimulation shows potential for treating uncontrolled high blood pressure

A new non-invasive technique that stimulates nerves through the ear has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated for patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure. The study found that the treatment reduced blood pressure in patients with more severe hypertension, suggesting further investigation is needed to determine its effectiveness.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalHypertension·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

The right timing of treatment keeps resistant cells in check

A new study from the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light reveals that physical processes in growing tumors and microbial biofilms play a crucial role in determining the optimal timing of treatment cycles. The researchers used a 'Real-To-Sim-To-Real' approach, combining microbial model systems and computer simulations, to show...

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Penn Medicine and IBA launch joint venture to advance proton therapy and radiation oncology program development worldwide

The new company will provide integrated advisory and lifecycle support services to help healthcare organizations develop and sustain successful proton therapy programs. Penn Medicine and IBA will combine their expertise to create a unique platform for delivering exceptional care to patients and building sustainable oncology programs.

To find a host cricket, this parasitic fly listens to more than the beat

A new study reveals that female Ormia ochracea flies evaluate cricket songs based on multiple temporal features, including sound pulses and pauses. The flies recognize relevant songs based on combinations of these features, rather than just pulse rate, and use this information to find a suitable host for their developing offspring.

SourceSt. Olaf College·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Today’s urban inequality goes far beyond legacy of ‘redlining,’ study shows

A recent study by Emory University researchers analyzed socio-economic data and environmental indicators in Portland, Oregon, to understand current urban patterns of privilege and disadvantage. The study found that redlining, while a significant factor, is not the only contributor to urban inequality, and that gentrification and displa...

SourceEmory University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2026

Tracking researchers in Ukraine through war and armed conflict:

A new study reveals that researchers in Ukraine's war-affected regions have been relocating to other parts of the country and abroad, with some areas experiencing net losses of scholars. The findings challenge the assumption that scholars freely choose their destinations, highlighting the complex dynamics of scholarly mobility during c...

SourceMax Planck Institute for Demographic Research·JournalPopulation and Development Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2026

Study shows rising rates of reported intentional substance exposures at school among elementary- and middle-school-aged children

A new study found substantial increases in reported intentional substance exposures at US schools among elementary- and middle-school-aged children, with high school-age teens experiencing the highest rates of serious medical outcomes and hospital admissions. Pharmaceutical exposures in this age group were associated with substantially...

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalThe American Journal of Emergency Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2026

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency affects 40% of chronic pancreatitis patients

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that approximately 40% of patients with chronic pancreatitis worldwide develop exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, a condition that can lead to malabsorption, weight loss, and deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins. Smoking emerged as a significant modifiable risk factor, emphasizing the need fo...

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Pancreatology·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 28, 2026

Quality of European rivers

Analysis of data between 2015 and 2021 reveals organic pollution decreased in 14 countries, while phosphate concentrations fell in 11 of 16 countries studied. However, seven countries are currently in a favorable position, while others, including Spain and Bulgaria, face critical situations.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2026

Sage becomes new home of Lawrence & Wishart journals

The Lawrence & Wishart journals portfolio, including New Formations, Soundings, Anarchist Studies, Twentieth Century Communism, and FORUM, will be published by Sage starting in 2027. The journals will continue to publish research and writing on politics, culture, education, and social change, with a focus on critical scholarship an...

SourceSAGE·DateSep 28, 2026

Researchers discover bullfrog brains can make their own backup fuel

Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered that bullfrogs can generate ketone bodies in their brains, allowing them to continue critical neural functions even when glucose levels are low. This finding could have implications for understanding human brain health and potentially treating neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2026

Pennington Biomedical’s Dr. Chris Morrison awarded up to $2 million NIH grant to study how the brain detects dietary protein restriction

Dr. Chris Morrison's research aims to understand how the brain detects changes in protein intake and adapts to dietary protein restriction. The study will focus on a specific population of neurons in the hindbrain that respond to FGF21, a hormone produced by the liver in response to protein restriction.

Though seen as a threat to humanity, AI reporting in the West reflects a clear chain of dominance and dependence

A new study analyzing 43,000 English-language newspaper articles reveals a highly stratified AI narrative, with the US and Europe dominating authority and China appearing as a rival. The research highlights an unequal distribution of narrative authority, with some actors positioned as legitimate authors and others as recipients or obje...

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 28, 2026

New $3.1M NIH grant for University of Houston to study how ‘spongy heart’ disease develops — and whether it can be stopped

University of Houston researcher Mingfu Wu has received a $3.1 million NIH grant to investigate left ventricular noncompaction, a serious heart condition that can lead to heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms. The study aims to uncover a common mechanism behind different genetic causes of LVNC and potentially identify new targets fo...

Ancient tools reveal how Ice Age humans learned the land

A new study analyzed 500 spear points to understand how early humans in the Tennessee River Valley region adapted to unfamiliar environments, using resharpening techniques to manage resources. The research found that the Clovis groups were more likely to resharpen spearheads, indicating a concern for resource management, while the Cumb...

SourceUniversity of Mississippi·JournalJournal of Archaeological Method and Theory·DateSep 28, 2026

Financial stress bleeds into our relationships. But partners who provide emotional support can help.

A new study found that couples who receive emotional support from their partners experience reduced stress spillover from financial worries. Emotional support was a key factor in managing financial stress, while problem-solving alone was less effective. The study suggests that a supportive partner can act as a buffer against financial ...

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPersonal Relationships·TypeSurvey·DateSep 28, 2026

How Bolsonaro’s statements destroyed the rainforest

A study by the University of Bonn shows that Bolsonaro's statements opposing forest conservation accelerated deforestation, with up to 1,700 square kilometers of forest destroyed due to the power of words. The researchers found that the effect was strongest in areas with high agricultural returns and restricted nature conservation policy.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalThe Journal of Politics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2026

Nearly half of childhood cancer survivors experience symptoms of anxiety or depression as adults

Research reveals that nearly half of childhood cancer survivors experience symptoms of anxiety or depression as adults. The study found that cognitive functioning, psychological symptoms, and fatigue were significantly affected, with 28% reporting difficulties with cognitive functions.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalCurrent Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2026

New therapeutic strategy could open the door to preventing brain metastasis

Researchers have identified a transient phase during which metastatic seeds are particularly vulnerable to elimination using three drugs, two of which are already approved. This discovery opens a potential route to stopping the disease before it becomes clinically apparent, paving the way towards prevention and potentially preventing r...

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCancer Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Alliance trial finds fractionated radiosurgery reduces cancer recurrence after surgery for large brain metastases

A Phase III trial found that delivering focused radiation therapy over three to five sessions after surgery for a large brain metastasis reduced cancer recurrence at the surgical site. Fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery also showed a trend in controlling brain metastases that had not been removed surgically. Median overall survival...

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 28, 2026

Canadian telescope directly maps earliest glow of hydrogen, opening a new window on the universe

Researchers at the Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) have successfully mapped the earliest glow of hydrogen gas from deep in the universe's past using only its own data. This breakthrough enables a faster, less expensive method for studying dark energy, a mysterious force driving the universe's expansion.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateSep 28, 2026

Together human genetics, AI and animal studies provide diagnosis for rare, complex neurodevelopmental disorder

Researchers identified BRSK1 gene variants as a diagnosis for a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by developmental delays, neurological symptoms, and variable expressivity. Fruit fly studies connected the gene to the human condition, revealing essential role for BRSK1 in normal nervous system function.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Five-treatment radiation therapy offers effective nonsurgical alternative for localized prostate cancer

A randomized trial found that five-treatment stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) provided excellent long-term cancer control and better urinary continence and sexual function compared to surgery. SBRT offered clear advantages for urinary continence and sexual function, with 91% of patients remaining free from biochemical or clin...

Heredity is about more than just DNA

Scientists discovered that a temporary change in gene regulation can be inherited for at least 15 generations in C. elegans without altering the DNA sequence. This epigenetic inheritance occurs through a succession of mechanisms, allowing organisms to respond to changing environmental conditions.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeNews article·DateSep 28, 2026

Chinese Medical Journal evaluates triple regimen for HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer

A phase Ib/II trial evaluated the triple combination of famitinib, dalpiciclib, and fulvestrant in HR+/HER2− breast cancer, meeting initial efficacy targets with a confirmed objective response rate of 51.9%. However, the regimen showed no superiority over standard first-line treatments and was terminated early due to safety concerns.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateSep 28, 2026

NYU Abu Dhabi study reveals how cells respond differently to a cancer-causing gene

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi found that a cancer-causing gene can trigger different responses in cells, with some helping to prevent tumors while others may contribute to their development. The study identified different types of cellular senescence, which can be targeted with senolytic drugs to eliminate cancer-causing cells.

SourceNew York University·JournalEMBO Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

WSU study finds community-led dog vaccination could save children's lives

A community-based approach to vaccinating dogs against rabies significantly increased vaccination coverage and reduced costs compared to traditional annual campaigns, maintaining herd immunity and protecting children from deadly infections. The study, led by WSU, suggests a cost-effective solution to prevent human infections.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Wiley launches two new research journals—Advanced Medicine and Advanced Healthy Aging—Continuing expansion of its Advanced Portfolio

Wiley has launched two new research journals, Advanced Medicine and Advanced Healthy Aging, as part of its expanding Advanced Portfolio. The new journals aim to elevate breakthrough science that impacts lives, reflecting Wiley's commitment to accelerating science that addresses humanity's most pressing challenges. Led by expert editori...

SourceWiley·DateSep 28, 2026

Historic fishery collapse holds lessons for the present

The study analyzed 450 years of herring catches in the Baltic Sea, finding that climate change, overfishing, and social change contributed to the fishery's collapse. An interdisciplinary approach reveals that considering ecological, economic, and social factors is crucial for sustainable fisheries management.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research Halle-Jena-Leipzig – iDiv e. V.·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2026

Halting Marine Plastic Inputs Is Not Enough to Prevent Microplastic Accumulation

A new study highlights the importance of combining source reduction with cleanup of legacy macroplastics to prevent microplastic accumulation. The study found that halting plastic inputs by 2050 could reduce cumulative ocean plastic by 51.4% but would still leave significant amounts of microplastics behind.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 28, 2026

Dongguk University researchers develop battery-free flexible device for neuromorphic sensing

Researchers developed a self-powered, flexible neuromorphic sensing platform that mimics human tactile perception, demonstrating hierarchical memory processes and spike-rate-dependent plasticity. The device operates entirely without an external power source, converting mechanical stimuli into electrical signals.

SourceDongguk University Evaluation and Audit Team·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Scientists overcome key barrier to self-amplifying vaccines

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London discovered a way to overcome cell's natural defences against self-amplifying mRNA vaccines, enabling the production of significantly more of their target protein. This innovation could provide longer-lasting protection at lower doses, opening new possibilities in gene therapy, cancer immuno...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

15 million Americans live in a county with no general surgeon

A new study in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons reveals that 15 million Americans live in a county with no general surgeon, with 951 counties having no surgeon in any of 12 surgical specialties. The study provides an interactive data visualization tool for patients, clinicians, and policymakers to access county-level data.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateSep 28, 2026

Mediterranean rockrose extract shows fungicidal activity against fungi that cause common skin infections

A polyphenol-rich extract from Cistus salviifolius has shown fungicidal activity against several dermatophytes, including Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum canis. The extract reduced fungal load and tissue invasion in a reconstructed human epidermis model, preserving the epidermal barrier and decreasing inflammation.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalJournal of Ethnopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

A new metal-free and water-soluble molecule that can produce florescence and used as MRI contrast material

Researchers at Kyushu University have developed a novel molecule that can produce fluorescence and serve as an MRI contrast agent, addressing limitations of current imaging techniques. The molecule, a water-soluble and metal-free compound, demonstrates improved imaging depth and reduced toxicity compared to existing agents.

SourceKyushu University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Can Antarctic radar improve southern hemisphere weather forecasts?

Researchers found that incorporating Antarctic radar observations into weather forecasting systems improves forecasts of atmospheric circulation and atmospheric rivers over the Southern Hemisphere. The study used continuous wind observations from the PANSY radar to demonstrate the value of high-frequency measurements for weather foreca...

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 28, 2026

One in nine older adults who use cannabis meet criteria for cannabis use disorder

A study from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that 11.4% of older adults who used cannabis in the past year met the criteria for cannabis use disorder (CUD). This condition is characterized by a pattern of cannabis use that causes problems or interferes with daily life. The study highlights the importance...

Simplifying the calibration of current measurement instruments with diamond quantum sensing technology

Researchers developed a current comparator using diamond quantum sensors to accurately evaluate both AC and DC current ratios with the same device setup. This technology eliminates the need for separate calibration systems and paves the way for standardization of current measurement in next-generation power grids.

SourceNational Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026