Science News Archive 2026
Page 114 of 270
Rapid and visual on-site detection system for Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Virus
Selective editing of N-glycan signals on living cell surface
"Bulky" molecular shields: A new strategy to supercharge single-atom catalysts for zinc-air batteries
Rock bonding changes understanding of earthquakes mechanics
High societal costs linked to extremely preterm birth
Satellites capture the glowing pulse of human civilization
Scientists develop spatiotemporal correlation-based deep learning framework for bias correction of atmospheric and oceanic variables
Sauna bathing may boost immune responses
Imaging technique captures more information about ultrafast microscopic processes
Swelling after brain bleed linked to worse outcomes, study finds
Newly funded projects to develop more effective drugs with fewer side effects for hard-to-treat cancers
“Uncovered why autism is more common in men” DGIST professor Jaewon Ko’s team successfully identified the gender-specific pathogenesis of the MDGA1 gene
Confirming the potential to treat dementia with FDA-approved drugs DGIST discovers treatment mechanism to calm brain immune cells
Boosted flavor quality in leafy vegetables by manipulating a conservative protein-targeting system
A new mechanism explains how protein production is regulated in fatty liver under metabolic stress
Insilico’s breakthrough in cancer therapy: Discovering selective PKMYT1 inhibitors via sulfur-lone pair interactions
Researchers at Insilico Medicine have developed novel small molecular inhibitors and extremely selective PROTACs targeting the serine/threonine kinase PKMYT1. The discovery utilizes noncovalent interactions to achieve selectivity, masking hydrogen-bond donors that negatively affect permeability and solubility.
One DNA letter can trigger complete sex reversal, Bar-Ilan University study finds
Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have discovered that changing just one letter in DNA can completely alter sex development in mice. A single-letter insertion in a non-coding regulatory region caused XX mice to develop as males with testis and male genitalia.
ACP’s 2026 Annual Meeting convenes leaders shaping the future of internal medicine
The ACP's 2026 Internal Medicine Meeting will gather over 5,000 clinicians and experts to explore cutting-edge research and innovations in patient care. Keynote speaker Ashish K. Jha, MD, MPH, will discuss clinical leadership and trust in the age of information chaos.
Laser optothermal nanobomb for efficient flattening of nanobubbles in van der Waals materials
Researchers have developed a novel all-optical method called laser optothermal nanobomb (LOTB) for efficient flattening of nanobubbles in 2D materials. The method leverages an optothermally induced phase transition and stress-pulling effect to remove gas from the bubbles, flattening the film without damaging its intrinsic properties.
High levels of forever chemicals in Svalbard reindeer
Researchers have discovered high levels of forever chemicals like PFAS in Svalbard reindeer, while toxic metals such as cadmium and lead have shown a decrease. The study suggests that PFAS levels have skyrocketed over the past decade, with implications for human consumption of the animals.
One in ten experience facial pain – New method can reveal the cost
A new international research collaboration has developed lay descriptions to visualize the global burden of disease caused by facial pain. Facial pain affects everyday activities like eating and speaking, and is often long-lasting.
What if dark matter came in two states?
Researchers suggest that dark matter may consist of multiple particles, whose behavior varies depending on the cosmic environment. This could explain why a signal observed at the center of our galaxy is not seen in dwarf galaxies.
First light for PoET: shining (sun)light on exoplanet research
The Paranal solar ESPRESSO Telescope (PoET) has made its first observations, aiming to understand how stellar activity affects the detection of exoplanets. PoET uses the Sun's light to analyze distant star spectra and remove 'noise' that can mask planetary signals.
Older immigrants in Finland face everyday problems that impede the realization of their rights
A new study by the University of Eastern Finland highlights the challenges faced by older immigrants in Finland when seeking social and healthcare services. The study found that lack of language skills, incorrect diagnoses, and discriminatory practices hinder their access to employment and citizenship. Improving interpreter services, p...
Seeing red: Dragonflies and humans share the same red-light detection mechanism
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University discovered that dragonfly visual protein detects red light similarly to mammals. This finding has potential applications in medical fields relying on red light-sensing, such as optogenetics.
No motors? No gears? No problem.
Soft robots could work as medical implants, deliver drugs inside the body, and explore dangerous environments. The researchers designed a reconfigurable robot that can move repeatedly without degradation, using targeted heating to control motion and embedded temperature sensors for closed-loop control.
Halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 critical to avoid disastrous effects on human well-being
A new paper warns that halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 is urgent to avoid destabilizing the Earth's vital systems. The authors call for a unified 'Nature Positive' approach to global environmental goals and governance.
Nancy L. Lewis, MD, MBS, FACP, named new Chief Scientific Officer for National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)
Nancy L. Lewis, MD, MBS, FACP, a renowned biomedical researcher and clinical trials expert, has been appointed as the new Chief Scientific Officer of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). She will oversee NCCN's programs to advance clinical trials and improve cancer care outcomes globally.
Why anti-cancer drugs do not always live up to expectations
A new study reveals that two key BET proteins, BRD2 and BRD4, perform distinct roles in gene activation. Blocking both simultaneously disrupts the process, producing unpredictable effects. Targeted therapies may be more effective if they distinguish between these roles.
Native bacteria may break down dioxins without genetic modification
Researchers have discovered that native soil bacteria can degrade persistent pollutants like dioxins without genetic engineering. Using decoy molecules, the bacteria's natural enzymes are tricked into breaking down these toxic compounds.
Base-resolution DNA methylation map of MDS stem cells reveals new disease mechanism
Researchers generated a comprehensive view of DNA methylation abnormalities in human MDS HSCs, uncovering a novel TET2-GFI1 axis that suppresses malignant transformation. The study identifies key hematopoietic regulators and provides a panoramic view of DNA methylation disruption in MDS.
Soundscapes from nearby forests are more uplifting than those from faraway places
Experiment with 195 students in Germany found that local forest soundscapes had stronger positive effects on mental wellbeing, especially when participants felt familiar with the sounds. The study revealed that perceived animal diversity and familiarity played a significant role in triggering feelings of awe and restoration.
The role of graphene in photocatalytic composites revealed by theoretical modelling
Researchers used theoretical modelling to explore graphene's interaction with TiO2, finding that defects lead to strong covalent bonds and hybridised electronic states. This enables efficient charge transfer and reduces electron-hole recombination, boosting photocatalytic performance.
Why treelines don’t simply rise with the climate
A global study reveals treelines shift upslope in 42% of cases, retreating in 25%, due to complex interactions between temperature and human interventions like land use changes. Treeline dynamics also influenced by natural disturbances like fires.
New AI technology to speed drug development
Scientists at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a suite of AI-powered tools, called YuelDesign, YuelPocket and YuelBond, to transform how new drugs are created. These tools can design drug molecules tailored to fit their protein targets exactly, even accounting for protein flexibility.
New cause for diabetes in babies found in non-coding genes
Scientists have identified two non-coding genes as the cause of autoimmune neonatal diabetes in 19 children. The discovery sheds light on the importance of non-protein coding genes and their role in human disease.
Scientists discover the antibacterial potential of ‘hero’ Korean skincare ingredient
Scientists at the University of Kent have found that madecassic acid inhibits the ability of antibiotic-resistant E. coli to grow, suggesting it could serve as an alternative antimicrobial. The study shows three modified variants of the compound effectively inhibited cytochrome bd and shut down bacterial growth.
Rethinking the gut microbiome: Health is not about staying the same
Traveling tropical disturbance increases rainfall across the Hawaiian Islands
Deadly heat stress conditions already occurring
Manipulating interphase chemistry by endogenous doping toward high‑performance hard carbon anodes for sodium‑ion batteries
Skin can ‘pre-learn’: Priming cells for regeneration before injury
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology discovered a way to prime skin cells for regeneration before injury, enabling rapid and effective healing. This approach, called mosaic partial reprogramming, reshapes surrounding cells and tissue microenvironment to accelerate wound healing.
InnoCORE Research Group successfully achieves AI protein design with Nobel Laureate David Baker
Researchers at KAIST InnoCORE successfully designed artificial proteins using AI to recognize specific compounds. The team developed an AI model that reflects protein-ligand interactions and designed binding proteins for six types of compounds, including metabolites and small-molecule drugs.
African swine fever: a novel model for assessing transmission between domestic pigs and wild boar
Researchers developed an innovative multi-host epidemiological model to study African swine fever (ASF) transmission between domestic pigs and wild boars. The model found that inter-farm transmission was the primary driver sustaining outbreaks, while nearby infected wild boar populations played a significant role in ASF spread.
Leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase AhZAR1 regulates early seed development in peanut
A peanut mutant's embryo development failure is linked to AhZAR1, a receptor-like kinase essential for early embryogenesis. The AhZAR1 protein interacts with key signaling pathways, including auxin and brassinosteroid pathways.
Global musicians face the same 'streaming paradox' as US- and UK-based artists, study finds
A study of 1,200 musicians in five countries reveals the 'streaming paradox': while artists are more visible than ever, meaningful income remains elusive. Musicians face growing pressure to create engaging content and manage their online presence.
New Hampshire ski industry concerned about climate change
A recent UNH study reveals that New Hampshire ski industry professionals are increasingly concerned about climate change, with 85% expressing alarm or concern. The industry generates $278.8 million annually and supports over 10,000 jobs, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and advocacy.
Self-employed Hispanic women may be at lower risk for cardiovascular disease compared with their salaried counterparts
Research published in Ethnicity & Disease found that self-employed Hispanic women report less high blood pressure, obesity, and poor health compared to their salaried counterparts. They were also more likely to exercise, with a nearly 11% higher rate of physical activity.
Atomic-level structure of a giant virus revealed
Researchers at ExCELLS/NIPS successfully determined the capsid structure of Melbournevirus at 4.4 Å resolution using cryo-EM. The study's 'block-based reconstruction method' improved resolution, revealing detailed arrangement of proteins constituting the massive capsid.
Salk Institute to lead ARPA-H project with up to $41.3M to advance sonogenetics as a noninvasive therapeutic
The Salk Institute will lead an ARPA-H-funded project to develop ultrasound-sensitive protein tools, wearable ultrasound delivery technology, and a translational path to the clinic for major unmet medical needs. The team aims to create a noninvasive therapy for conditions such as peripheral neuropathy.
Astronomers have identified the most primitive star ever found
Astronomers have identified a metal-poor star in the Large Magellanic Cloud, which is almost entirely hydrogen and helium with trace amounts of carbon and iron. Studying this low-mass star can help clarify our understanding of the first generation of stars, called Population III stars.
A framework for human brain–computer interfaces with single-neuron recordings
A new framework for brain-computer interfaces is proposed using single-neuron recordings, integrating clinical advances with existing technologies. The framework enables two closed-loop strategies: adaptive neural feedback systems and adaptive neuromodulation systems, facilitating the study of memory processing and concept cells.
A “stemness checkpoint” helps control stem cell identity
Researchers have identified GSK3α as a common checkpoint controlling stem cell differentiation, maintaining self-renewal and preserving identities in various stem cell types. Inhibiting GSK3α demonstrates its fundamental role in regulating stem cell biology across developmental stages and species.
Reported 2025 drug overdose ‘spike’ was an illusion, new study finds
A new Northwestern University study confirms that US drug overdose deaths have continued to decline following a peak in August 2023, contrary to speculation of manipulated CDC data. The study highlights the importance of accurate data for public health response and calls for greater transparency in federal data systems.
ACM Prize in Computing honors Matei Zaharia for foundational contributions to data and machine learning systems
Matei Zaharia's work on open-source systems like Apache Spark, Delta Lake, and MLflow has enabled large-scale machine learning, analytics, and AI at global scale. His innovations have made scalable computing accessible to researchers, nonprofits, and enterprises across every industry.
Linker histone H1 acts as a liquid-like “glue” for chromatin
A recent study reveals that linker histone H1 binds to nucleosomes and creates a dynamic, flexible network that condenses chromatin. This new understanding suggests that chromatin behaves like a liquid-like 'glue' rather than a rigid structure.
Healthier plant-based diet associated with lower risk of Alzheimer’s, other dementias
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that a higher quality plant-based diet is associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Researchers compared participants based on their diet scores, finding that those who followed healthier plant-based diets had a lower risk of dementia.
ORNL receives six Federal Lab Consortium awards for Technology Transfer Excellence
The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory was recently awarded six Federal Lab Consortium awards for Technology Transfer Excellence. The awards recognize the successful transfer of technology from laboratory to industry, including a breakthrough suite of lithium extraction technologies that enable secure domestic supply.
The structure of online reviews shapes their helpfulness
A study of nearly 200,000 Amazon reviews reveals that the structure of online product reviews plays a crucial role in their helpfulness. The researchers identified nine possible structures of online reviews and found that different review structures are more or less helpful depending on how highly the reviewer has rated the product.