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Science news — August 14, 2026

Science publications published on August 14, 2026 (UTC). This is a fixed calendar-day archive.

11 publications

  1. ScienceLawMiddle EastPublic Health

    Drones Transforming Warfare: Ukraine, Iran Lead Adaptation

    Drones are revolutionizing combat strategies in Ukraine and Iran, challenging traditional military superiority metrics. While Western militaries cautiously adopt drones, these two nations integrate them extensively, embedding operators across tactical levels and establishing dedicated unmanned branches. This rapid adaptation could leave slow adopters behind as AI and networking advancements further enhance drone capabilities. Despite enthusiasm, drones alone cannot replace entire military machines; they require supporting infrastructure for effective use.
    5 sourcesSee all sources
  3. SciencePhysicsMathMaterialsEarth

    Ancient Chinese Rock Paintings Preserved by Postpartum Blood

    Scientists have discovered that postpartum blood was used as a binding agent in ancient Chinese rock paintings, preventing them from fading for over 2000 years. The study, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, found that maternal proteins in the blood initiated a biomineralization process, creating a durable bond between the pigments and the cliff face. This combination of ritual practice and practical chemistry has preserved the vibrant paintings at the Zuojiang Huashan Rock Art site in southern China.
    2 sourcesSee all sources
  5. ScienceEarthPublic Health

    Dolphins Use Shells as Tools to Catch Fish

    Researchers have documented dolphins using shells as tools to catch fish on the east coast of Australia, with evidence suggesting that calves may learn this technique from their mothers. This behavior, known as 'shelling', involves chasing fish into a shell, lifting it to the surface, and shaking out the fish to eat it. The first visual evidence of this behavior on the east coast was recorded in 2025, with a calf observed mimicking its mother's actions. This finding adds to the growing evidence of dolphins' intelligence and ability to use tools.
    7 sourcesSee all sources
  7. ScienceCommodities

    Gold Prices Fall After Recent Rally

    Gold prices retreated on Thursday and Friday, August 13-14, following a significant rally over the previous two months. The price per ounce fell from $4,449.39 to $4,330.37, a decrease of approximately 1.7%. This decline was driven by investors taking profits after the metal reached its highest level since June 5. The move was also influenced by market expectations that the Federal Reserve would maintain interest rates unchanged in September, creating a more favorable context for gold in the short term. However, expectations of a possible rate hike later in the year remain in focus, which could limit gold's upside potential.
    8 sourcesSee all sources
  8. ScienceNeuroscienceEarth

    Genetic Mutation Linked to Natural Weight Loss, Lower Diabetes Risk

    Scientists have discovered a rare genetic mutation in the FNIP1 gene that acts like a natural weight loss drug. Present in about 7 out of 1000 people, this mutation makes the body burn energy less efficiently, converting excess energy into heat through thermogenesis. This results in reduced weight gain, lower liver fat, and better insulin sensitivity, lowering the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease by 60%. Researchers are now working to replicate these metabolic advantages through therapeutics.
    4 sourcesSee all sources
  9. ScienceEuropePhysicsSci Policy

    UK Scientists to Grow Miniature Human Organs for Drug Testing

    Scientists in the UK will grow miniature human organs and tissues from NHS patients' cells to improve drug testing and reduce animal use. The project aims to create a library of standardized organoids to understand disease variations among patients and identify effective treatments. Funded with £20m, it focuses initially on inflammatory bowel diseases and cancer research.
    18 sourcesSee all sources
  10. ScienceEarth

    VA Launches Psilocybin Trial for Veterans with Treatment-Resistant Depression

    The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has initiated a clinical trial to assess the safety and effectiveness of psilocybin in treating major depression, including cases concurrent with PTSD, that has not responded to other treatments. The randomized trial will compare two psilocybin dosage levels and evaluate depression levels, side effects, and patient-reported outcomes. This trial is part of VA's 20 active clinical trials exploring psychedelic therapies for mental health conditions, conducted under strict safety protocols and federal guidelines.
    4 sourcesSee all sources