Latest Science News

New species of egg-eating snake described from Harenna Forest in Ethiopia

Scientists discover how to decode weather on faraway, deep-space worlds

A machine learning system that identifies cancer cells based on how they scatter light

Can AI find drugs to fight infection?

AACR releases annual cancer progress report highlighting promising advances for patients

National study finds violence affects millions across US with links to health, economic hardship

Chimpanzees give youngsters the tools to learn tricky techniques

Decoding the bone-eye axis: Machine learning for age related macular degeneration risk prediction

A study using machine learning and multi-omics profiling found a consistent association between lower bone mineral density and higher age-related macular degeneration risk. Shared molecular signatures and pathways involving extracellular matrix remodeling, lipid transport, and inflammation were also identified.

Rolling with the waves

Roll waves play a crucial role in hydraulic engineering, but current design standards overlook their formation. Researchers at Kyoto University discovered a fundamental flaw in existing standards, revealing the importance of understanding unsteady flows like roll waves.

Single material enables efficient charge injection into two types of ultrathin semiconductors, paving the way for smaller, more energy-efficient AI chips

Researchers developed a single-material 'universal charge injector' that injects charge into two types of ultrathin semiconductors using tin diselenide (SnSe2). This technology addresses a major obstacle in atomically thin semiconductors, enabling efficient charge injection and paving the way for smaller, more energy-efficient AI chips.

New optical screen could pave way for cheaper infrared cameras

Researchers have developed a new optical screen that converts infrared light to visible light, making it possible to create cheaper and more compact infrared cameras. The screen, made of tiny structures thousands of times smaller than a human hair, can produce images more than 1000 times brighter than traditional methods.

Healthy eating linked to slower biological aging—but there is no single “best” diet

A study of 7,500 adults found that healthy eating is associated with slower biological aging, with no single diet being superior. The researchers examined ten dietary patterns and found that all were linked with slower aging, with some more effective than others.

Professor Graeme Clark awarded Honda Prize

Professor Graeme Clark has been jointly awarded the 2026 Honda Prize for his pioneering work on multichannel cochlear implants, which have restored hearing to over 650,000 people globally. His research and collaboration with industry led to the development of the bionic ear, a device that transmits sound directly to the brain.

Engineers crack puzzle of Arctic sea ice movement

A new study reveals that collisions between individual pieces of Arctic sea ice provide a simple explanation for its movement, which could help scientists predict its transport as the Arctic warms. The study's framework may also be applied to other systems involving many objects colliding in unpredictable environments.

Australia’s ancient rainfall patterns more complex than previously believed

Researchers analyzed 69 natural archives from tropical Australia, finding no evidence of complex rainfall patterns during the Holocene. Instead, they suggest that past data limitations may have led to an overestimation of complexity.

New species of 240-million-year-old prehistoric animal from Tanzania discovered

A new species of 240-million-year-old prehistoric animal from Tanzania has been discovered, which could refine the age of one of the world's most significant fossil sites and reshape the timeline of early dinosaur evolution. The discovery links Tanzanian and South American fossil-bearing rocks, showing they are of equivalent age and co...

Structured exercise linked to longer cancer survival and time free of disease

A meta-analysis of 21 randomized controlled trials involving 8449 participants found that structured exercise was associated with significant improvements in overall survival and reduced risk of cancer recurrence. The benefits were strongest among participants who completed at least 70% of their exercise program.

Air pollutant exposure linked to heightened risk of death by suicide/suicidal thoughts

Research suggests air pollutants like PM2.5, NO2, and noise pollution may increase risk of death by suicide and suicidal thoughts. Environmental exposures are considered modifiable risk factors in suicide prevention strategies.

Four to six servings of wholegrain per day lowers risk factors for heart disease

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 87 clinical trials found that consuming four to six servings of wholegrain per day can lower cardiovascular risk factors, including body weight, waist circumference, and total cholesterol levels. Benefits were most pronounced at intakes of 60 to 100 grams per day.

Thousands of most vulnerable children and young people missing out on mental health support

A new study found that nearly 50,000 children and young people on child protection plans and 84,000 in care are at risk of mental health difficulties. Only 9-18% of these children had contact with mental health services in a given year, highlighting the need for increased support and referrals.

From generative AI to the ultrasound probe: Targeting AI expands its hands-on approach to nephrology

The initiative explores how AI-assisted ultrasound can support nephrologists in acquiring images, discussing interpretation, and exploring new technological capabilities. Targeting AI & Nephrology aims to build bridges between AI research, technological innovation, and real-world clinical practice.

Chatty chatbots can mislead users, but verification tools help, researchers find

A study by Penn State researchers found that conversational chatbots can lead users to trust misinformation, but adding verification tools can offset this effect. The study tested the impact of conversational AI chatbots on user trust and found that users who could verify information were more skeptical of the AI's responses.

MSU, U-M researchers receive $1M grant to advance equitable urban clean energy

Researchers from MSU and U-M are launching a three-year study to examine the impact of urban clean energy investments on local communities, with a focus on equity and participation. The project aims to understand how cities can reduce carbon emissions while ensuring community voices are heard and benefits are shared.

NIH R01 grant funds study of physical activity and binge eating in children

A five-year study funded by the NIH aims to investigate the relationship between physical activity and binge eating in children, with the goal of preventing eating disorders. The research will track 200 children aged 10-12 using wearable technology and real-time assessments to better understand how eating disorders develop.

Study: Sibling interactions are an untapped resource for early engineering education

Researchers at Binghamton University identified clear roles among siblings on STEM tasks, including colleague, lead engineer, and provocateur roles. Sibling relationships offer a safe space for children to develop engineering skills, and programs should tap into this relationship for effective education.

Cancer-linked protein binds to chromosome in unexpected way, study finds

A new 3D-structure study reveals BRD4's unexpected ability to bind to chromosomes without a molecular signal, shedding light on its role in cancer and potential treatments. The discovery could lead to a better understanding of BRD4's function and its interaction with other proteins.

Wireless communications breakthrough: a deployable phased-array transceiver for small satellites

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo successfully demonstrated a deployable phased-array transceiver in orbit, enabling satellite constellation-based wireless communications. The technology corrects non-planar deformations in the deployable membrane antenna, paving the way for next-generation satellite-based networks.

Molecular insight into biological nitrogen fixation close to the boiling point

Researchers discovered a remarkable nitrogenase in the deep-sea archaeon Methanocaldococcus infernus, capable of fixing nitrogen at temperatures above 90°C. The enzyme's exceptional stability allowed scientists to study its structure and function, providing new insights into the nitrogen fixation process.

This new chip could help reduce our reliance on energy-hungry data centers

Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a new chip that enables AI computations closer to the user, reducing energy consumption and reliance on data centers. By moving AI computations to the edge, data does not have to travel back and forth to a data center, making applications faster and more privacy-friendly.

AI models put to the test for spotting stroke damage on routine brain scans

Researchers compared three AI approaches to spot stroke lesions on contrast-free MRI scans, finding that the self-configuring nnU-Net achieved the highest accuracy and was faster than other models. The study highlights the importance of rigorous testing and standardization in developing reliable AI systems for clinical use.

Diabetes prevention: epigenetic changes may influence the benefits of a healthy diet

A healthy diet is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly among those with lower epigenetic risk profiles. The study found that diet quality modifies the risk of diabetes independently of genetic predisposition, suggesting personalized prevention strategies may be effective.

Mayo Clinic and Thermo Fisher Scientific launch Precure, LLC to identify signs of disease before symptoms appear

Precure, LLC creates one of the world's leading biomedical datasets by integrating proteomic, genomic, and longitudinal clinical data, helping researchers identify early biological signals of disease. This data will accelerate drug development and enable more precise therapies across various diseases.

Wildflower strips versus organic farming

Research finds that wildflower strips and organic farming increase biodiversity by 20-30% and profits in wheat fields by 150% compared to conventional farming, with organic farming being the most profitable

Nine in 10 UK gambling websites breaching data privacy law, study finds

A recent study by Swansea University's GREAT Centre found that nearly nine in 10 UK-licensed online gambling websites are operating in breach of the General Data Protection Regulation. The study's results showed that cookie consent banners on these websites are designed to steer users into handing over their data, with participants thr...

When generative AI meets geroscience: Insilico Medicine decodes landmark biological age reversal study at Nature AI Conference

Insilico Medicine's AI-driven drug candidate, rentosertib, achieved a unanimous reversal of biological age across six independent proteomic aging clocks in a Phase IIa clinical trial. The study demonstrated significant reductions in predicted biological age and reversals of up to six years, with key biological mechanisms involving seno...

Dana-Farber/Boston Children's named the top pediatric cancer program in the nation for 2026-2027

Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center has been recognized as the #1 pediatric cancer program in the nation for 2026-2027, according to U.S. News & World Report. The center brings together two world-class institutions to provide comprehensive care for children with cancer and blood disorders.

Ice Age carvers used mammoth tusk patterns to create unique art, study finds

Researchers discovered intricate designs on 18,000-year-old female figurines inspired by mammoth tusk growth patterns. The study highlights a 1,000- to 3,000-year gap in figurine creation across Europe during the Last Glacial Maximum.

Largest study to date will measure effect of wildfire smoke and extreme heat on pregnancy

The study aims to identify the combined effects of wildfire smoke and extreme heat on pregnancy, with a focus on vulnerable groups. Exposure to these hazards has been linked to preterm birth, low birthweight, and serious pregnancy complications, with marginalized communities disproportionately affected.

Observation of behavior presenting ideal friction independent of velocity at high temperature

Researchers at NIMS experimentally ascertained friction independent of sliding velocity at high temperature, clarifying the basic principle of friction. The discovery is expected to lead to the design and development of energy-saving lubricants.

Study reveals the work & health insurance roller coaster millions of Americans ride

A new study reveals that workers with variable hours and incomes are more likely to rely on Medicaid or ACA Marketplace plans, which may be affected by 2027 changes. Millions of low- and middle-income workers with irregular schedules will be particularly susceptible to Medicaid disenrollment due to fluctuating work hours.