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Science News for September 9, 2026


Taylor Swift becomes bugs

A new genus of insects named Swiftiephylus has been discovered, with four species inspired by Taylor Swift's music and life. The insects are herbivorous, plant-feeders that help with camouflage, and their discovery highlights the importance of taxonomy in conservation.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalInsect Systematics & Evolution·DateSep 9, 2026

Restoring MHC-I expression could strengthen immune responses against CNS cancers

Researchers explored strategies to restore MHC-I expression in CNS cancers to make them more visible to the immune system. Approaches include epigenetic therapies, AAV vectors, PCSK9 inhibition, and modifying the tumor microenvironment. However, efficient delivery, antigen processing, and a limited neoantigen repertoire remain signific...

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 9, 2026

Reports of drug seizures by police rose during first year of decriminalization, SFU study finds​

A Simon Fraser University study found that police drug seizures without arrest increased by 2.5-4.1% during BC's first year of decriminalization, with participants who experienced seizures being three times more likely to experience a non-fatal overdose. The study analyzed data from 490 participants and suggests that decriminalization ...

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalBMC Public Health·DateSep 9, 2026

New U‑VBA pipeline standardizes super‑resolution ultrasound for microvascular disease assessment

A new platform enables non-invasive tracking of early microvascular disease changes using ultrasound localization microscopy. The U-VBA framework standardizes analysis of tiny blood vessels, capturing structural and hemodynamic properties, and shows high reproducibility and accuracy in classification of cervical lymph-node conditions.

SourceBMEF (BME Frontiers)·JournalBME Frontiers·DateSep 9, 2026

Safeguarding European plant health: New joint factsheet outlines synergy between Horizon Europe projects FORSAID, CERBERUS and STELLA

The joint factsheet highlights the complementary activities of FORSAID, CERBERUS and STELLA, demonstrating how innovative digital technologies can improve early detection and management of plant pests. The projects share a vision of using AI, remote sensing and citizen engagement to transform Europe's response to pest outbreaks.

Lasker Foundation announces 2026 Lasker Award winners

The Lasker Foundation has announced the 2026 Lasker Award winners, honoring fundamental discoveries in sleep research, revolutionary therapy for hemophilia A, and leadership in Parkinson’s disease research advocacy. Emmanuel Mignot and Masashi Yanagisawa will receive the Albert Lasker Basic Medical Research Award for discovering orexin...

Improved oxygen kinetics on both cathode and anode of SmBaFe2O5+-based solid oxide fuel cells through Ca2+ doping

A novel cobalt-free electrode material was developed through Ca2+ doping, reducing ionic radius mismatch and optimizing electron transport pathways. The resulting material showed significant improvements in electrical conductivity and reduced polarization resistance, leading to higher power densities and long-term stability.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateSep 9, 2026

Chemists unlock new possibilities for rare-earth metal

Chemists at the University of Iowa have isolated terbium in an atypical state under non-lab conditions, opening up new avenues for its use in quantum technologies and advanced sensors. The breakthrough method could also enable the efficient separation of other rare-earth metals, expanding their applications.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

Universitat Jaume I and General Hospital to collaborate with Príncipe Felipe Research Centre scientist María Jesús Vicent on two nanomedicine projects to combat cancer

Two nanomedicine projects will be developed to combat cancer, with the first focusing on cholangiocarcinoma and the second on ovarian cancer. The projects will utilize intelligent nanomedicines capable of adapting to individual tumor characteristics and energy supply, with the goal of more precise and effective therapies.

Three herbal extracts protect mitochondrial function in a cellular model of Parkinson’s disease

Researchers found three herbal extracts protect mitochondrial function in a cellular model of Parkinson’s disease, suggesting a potential treatment. The extracts, including Uncaria rhynchophylla, Gardenia jasminoides, and Scutellaria baicalensis, improved cell viability and mitochondrial function in cells with reduced VPS13C expression.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateSep 9, 2026

New method estimates sea surface temps quickly and accurately

Researchers have developed a method for extrapolating sea surface temperatures from sparse data, significantly outperforming other methods and reducing training time. The Sparse Discrete Empirical Interpolation Method (S-DEIM) uses historical data to estimate a kernel vector, improving accuracy and reducing computational requirements.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Machine Learning and Computation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2026

Distracted dog walkers may be putting wildlife and livestock at risk, study finds

A new study from the University of Surrey found that dog walkers who are distracted by their phones or conversations can miss their pets fouling, disturbing wildlife, or approaching livestock. The researchers suggest that well-placed bins, timely messages, and suitable spaces for off-lead exercise could make responsible choices easier.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalSociety & Natural Resources·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2026

Clever elephants can think before they act

A study published in PLOS One found that Asian elephants can resist impulsive behavior and choose a more effective route to problem-solving, even when it requires adjusting a previously effective approach. This ability may be important for elephants' social interactions and cognition.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

From material structure to device performance with lead-free layered perovskite optoelectronics

Researchers develop a structure-property-device performance framework for lead-free perovskite optoelectronics, enabling improved device performance through spacer engineering, compositional tuning, and defect passivation. This framework highlights emerging opportunities in AI-assisted materials discovery and industrial-scale processing.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

A study in Nature sheds new light on DNA repair in early human embryos, with implications for future gene correction

Researchers have discovered that early human embryos can effectively repair single-strand DNA damage, but the repair of double-strand breaks is less reliable at this stage of development. The study also highlights the limitations of current genome-editing technologies and the need for continuous research.

Nighttime social media posts can reveal the state of sleeplessness across the country, with new "social sensing approach" demonstrated by researchers in analyzing US sleep trends during the COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers used social media data to analyze US sleep trends during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding widespread sleeplessness across the country. The study, published in PLOS One, suggests that nighttime social media posts can be used to track sleep patterns and identify areas of high sleep distress.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·DateSep 9, 2026

Dolphin milk microRNAs may be substantially similar to those of terrestrial mammals, with preliminary analysis indicating potentially similar lactation despite dolphins' evolution to an aquatic lifestyle

Preliminary analysis suggests dolphin milk microRNAs are substantially similar to those of terrestrial mammals, sharing dominant microRNA families. This finding indicates potentially similar lactation mechanisms in dolphins, despite their adaptation to an aquatic lifestyle

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·DateSep 9, 2026

James Webb Space Telescope discovers that Chariklo’s invisible rings are changing

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope have detected changes in the ring system of Chariklo, a small body in the Solar System. The rings, which were previously thought to be stable, show opposite changes in opacity, suggesting dynamic behavior and the need for a reevaluation of their formation and evolution.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateSep 9, 2026

Ice Age origins of one of humanity’s oldest drug habits

A Griffith University team discovered evidence of ancient betel nut use, dating back 25,000 years, which challenged the current timeline of drug use origins. The researchers found skeletal remains with unusual dental wear patterns, indicating early humans habitually sucked whole betel nuts, causing severe periodontal disease.

SourceGriffith University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 9, 2026

Legionnaire's disease incidence has risen significantly in the U.S. over the last two decades, with warming temperatures, precipitation, sunlight levels, and road traffic exposure to the soil-dwelling Legionella bacteria likely driving this increase

Legionnaire's disease incidence in the US has increased over the last two decades, primarily driven by rising temperatures, precipitation, and road traffic exposure. The study suggests that warming temperatures and increased exposure to the soil-dwelling Legionella bacteria are likely contributing factors to this increase.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateSep 9, 2026

Research provides clues to spleen’s role in coronary artery disease

Researchers found associations between splenic features and coronary artery disease in a large dataset, suggesting new targets for prevention and treatment. The study used artificial intelligence and imaging scans to identify CAD-relevant splenic features, shedding light on novel mechanisms linking the spleen to heart disease.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 9, 2026

A multidisciplinary group of researchers from the University of Exeter and the UK Health Security Agency encourage consideration of potential interactions between urban green spaces, vector-borne diseases, and climate change

A multidisciplinary group of researchers examines potential interactions between urban green spaces, vector-borne diseases, and climate change to inform 21st century public health decisions. The study highlights the need for balancing benefits of urban green spaces with risks of vector-borne diseases under climate change.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Climate·DateSep 9, 2026

Helping distributed sensor networks cooperatively locate multiple targets

Researchers developed MASTER, a distributed optimization method that addresses the challenge of matching measurements from different sensors in cooperative localization. The method produces smaller localization errors than existing methods, especially with more sensors participating, and works with various sensing data types.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

New route for designing topological magnets based on the layer number

Researchers at Tohoku University have discovered a systematic strategy for designing topological magnets by varying the number of layers in a crystal structure. The new approach, based on homologous series, could lead to new materials with unique magnetic and topological properties for applications in spintronics and quantum technologies.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 2026

Spinal cord stimulation eases pain and improves sensation in people with diabetic nerve damage

A clinical trial found significant improvements in pain and sensation in people with treatment-resistant painful diabetic neuropathy after receiving spinal cord stimulation. The study also observed early evidence of increased density of small nerve fibers in the skin, which may indicate potential long-term benefits.

3D magnetic field experiment at BESSY II takes spintronics a step further

Researchers at BESSY II have made a breakthrough in spintronics by controlling spin patterns in magnetic material FNPP. By applying a tiny external magnetic field, the team was able to modify and create desired structures in a controlled manner, advancing the development of functional magnetic materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

Widespread COVID death underreporting around the world raises broader questions about the reliability of official information

A new study estimates that 45%–55% of governments misreported COVID mortality, with underreporting common than overreporting. Countries with stronger institutional checks and balances show less underreporting, emphasizing the importance of verification in protecting the reliability of official information.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of Economic Growth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2026

An atlas reveals the hidden "physical code" in the DNA sequence

Researchers have created the first comprehensive atlas of DNA's physical properties, revealing how its sequence influences genome regulation and evolution. The study analyzed 2,080 unique DNA fragments and found that certain sequences can preserve physical properties necessary for DNA function, potentially influencing genome evolution.

Quantum entanglement on a chip reaches audio frequency

Researchers from Shanxi University and Nanjing University demonstrate two-mode squeezed light in the audio-frequency band on a chip, achieving quantum entanglement between generated optical modes. The system enables stable quadrature measurements across multiple frequency channels, paving the way for future chip-scale quantum sensors a...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

Thousands of new findings contribute to a global virus map

A global virus atlas has been created by mapping RNA viruses in 102 cities worldwide, identifying nearly 55,000 different types, 80% of which were unknown to science. This data can be used for biological risk assessment, crime scene investigations, and environmental monitoring, providing a unique viral fingerprint for each location.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 9, 2026

New study identifies a vulnerability in small cell lung cancer – potential therapeutic approach via targeted inhibition

A study from the University of Cologne identified a critical dependency in small cell lung cancer that can be exploited therapeutically. Targeted inhibition of the NMD pathway offers a promising approach to treat SCLC by accumulating mutated proteins and presenting abnormal peptides on the cell surface, making it detectable to the immu...

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalMolecular Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

Breaking the selectivity-permeability trade-off: Potassium channel-inspired composite membrane enables efficient Mg²⁺/Li⁺ separation

Researchers developed a potassium channel-inspired composite membrane for efficient Mg²⁺/Li⁺ separation, overcoming the selectivity-permeability trade-off of traditional membranes. The membrane achieved high Mg²⁺ rejection rates and excellent Li⁺ permeability, with stable separation performance in complex water bodies.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateSep 9, 2026

Sea cucumber-inspired self-healing hydrogel paves the way for next-generation wearable tactile sensors and human-machine interaction

A team of researchers has developed a sea cucumber-inspired ionotronic hydrogel that combines intrinsic adhesion, room-temperature self-healing, and interfacial capacitive sensing. The hydrogel exhibits exceptional stretchability, high ionic conductivity, and strong adhesion to various substrates.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateSep 9, 2026

Engineering bacterial surfaces with glucan nanofilms creates a potent vaccine platform against invasive fungal infections

Researchers developed a synthetic bacterium-based vaccine platform that leverages engineered bacterial surfaces to assemble glucan nanofilms for enhanced antifungal immunity. The vaccine platform induces immune cell activation, increases antigen presentation markers, and promotes protective antifungal responses.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateSep 9, 2026

The brain’s rhythm signals may help memory circuits communicate

A new study suggests that slow electrical rhythms traveling along individual nerve fibers may help coordinate communication between key memory centers in the hippocampus. Researchers detected theta-band signals in individual axons connecting hippocampal subregions, linked to stronger bursts of activity in downstream neurons.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2026

The kissing bug that crossed the Atlantic

A kissing bug native to the southwestern US and northwestern Mexico was found in a Lisbon hotel room, highlighting the risks of Chagas disease transmission. The insect's 5,000-mile journey across the Atlantic has raised concerns about the potential for the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi to be introduced to Europe.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalParasites & Vectors·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

First touch, faster play: Study reveals the body and ball movements associated with quicker soccer passing

The study found that faster receive-to-pass transitions were linked to avoiding rapid foot approaches, maintaining upright body posture, and limiting ball rebound. This research provides a new biomechanical perspective on the soccer 'first touch' and may help translate coaching concepts into measurable movement characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFootball Studies·DateSep 9, 2026

Public confidence in Fauci declines since spring, but still exceeds RFK Jr.

According to the Annenberg Public Policy Center survey, Americans' confidence in Dr. Anthony Fauci has declined to 50% since spring 2026, with a 5 percentage point decrease from 55% in April 2026. However, Fauci still maintains higher confidence than Kennedy, the secretary of health and human services, with a 12 percentage point gap.

Current blood pressure thresholds may miss critically injured children

A national study of over 230,000 pediatric trauma patients found that signs of hemodynamic instability may appear earlier than current standards indicate, highlighting the need for more accurate blood pressure thresholds. The study suggests that clinicians may need to recognize and respond to signs of circulatory instability at higher ...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2026

AI tracks immune responses without relying on databases of known antibody sequences

Researchers developed a new analysis method, LM-QASAS, combining antibody language models with B-cell receptor repertoires to identify candidate sequences responding to an immune stimulus. The method successfully tracked the rise, peak, and decline of immune responses in new individuals, even for emerging infectious diseases.

SourceKobe University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2026

MDPI revives Open Access Journal of Italian Medical Laboratory

The Open Access Journal of Italian Medical Laboratory (JDReAM) has been revived by MDPI, aiming to promote high-quality, interdisciplinary research in medicine. The journal, led by Prof. Michele Maffia and Prof. Prisco Piscitelli, publishes research addressing human health and disease from various scientific perspectives.

SourceMDPI AG·DateSep 9, 2026

Combined screening and online cognitive-behavior skills-building program reduces burnout, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts in nurses

A randomized clinical trial found that nurses experiencing mental distress benefited from combining mental health screening with a digital cognitive-behavior skills-building program, resulting in significant reductions in anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. The program also improved healthy lifestyle beliefs and behaviors.

SourceWiley·JournalWorldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing·DateSep 9, 2026

Is stroke risk higher after a cancer diagnosis?

New research reveals a significant increase in stroke risk within 3 months of cancer diagnosis, with pancreatic and lung cancers showing the highest rates. The study, published in CANCER, found that younger patients and those with advanced cancer are particularly at risk.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateSep 9, 2026

Does a “calculative mindset” lead to ethical compromise?

Research in the PsyCh Journal found that individuals with a calculative mindset are more likely to ignore moral rules and make ethical compromises for personal gain. The study suggests that reducing this type of thinking may help prevent moral disengagement and promote a more principled approach.

SourceWiley·JournalPsyCh Journal·DateSep 9, 2026

Flower mimics figs to deceive fig-pollinating wasps

A type of milkweed, Heterostemma ficoides, mimics figs to deceive fig-pollinating wasps, while attracting flies that can complete their life cycle on the flowers. This unique combination of mutualism and deception allows the flower to thrive.

SourceWiley·JournalNew Phytologist·DateSep 9, 2026

As El Niño looms, study finds rapid growth in climate extremes are hitting an unexpected region of the Amazon hardest

Climate extremes in the Amazon are getting worse, with the central north region experiencing rapid growth in extreme temperatures and water stress. The region, home to extensive indigenous territories and high forest cover, was not previously considered a hotspot for climate change.

SourceLancaster University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2026

Luck or merit? Not all inequality is equally acceptable.

A recent study by Ingvild Almås explores why people worldwide accept or reject inequality, revealing differences between Western and non-Western societies. While global populations tend to accept merit-based fairness, there are significant variations, with non-Western countries like China and India exhibiting a high acceptance of luck-...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2026

Feelings upon learning of pregnancy, child developmental delays, and the role of social support

A nationwide birth cohort study found that negative feelings about pregnancy are associated with child developmental delays, while social support reduces risks. Mothers who reported 'no specific feelings' when learning of their pregnancy had the strongest association with developmental delays, highlighting the importance of identifying...

SourceToyama Regional Center for the Japan Environment and Children's Study, University of Toyama·JournalJournal of Health Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2026

Comprehensive review of distributed acoustic sensing

Distributed Acoustic Sensing enables standard optical fiber cables to detect vibrations, acoustic waves, and dynamic strain over long distances. The review highlights the technology's rapid growth and increasing importance, with applications in geophysics, civil engineering, transportation, and environmental monitoring.

SourceEditorial Office of Opto-Electronic Journals Group·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 9, 2026

Fish may be highly sensitive to antidepressants found in water

Researchers found that fish serotonin transporters, similar to human counterparts, can be highly sensitive to antidepressants found in water, highlighting potential risks to aquatic life. The study suggests prioritizing specific pharmaceuticals in environmental monitoring programs and deriving species-specific risk thresholds.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026

USC develops algorithmic tool to improve screening of patients for Alzheimer's clinical trial

Researchers at USC developed an algorithmic tool to improve screening of patients for Alzheimer's clinical trials, reducing unnecessary PET scans by over half. The tool uses blood plasma biomarkers to identify patients at risk of Alzheimer's disease, enabling faster and more efficient recruitment for trials like AHEAD 3-45.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAlzheimer’s & Dementia·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2026