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Science News Archive 2026 - Page 271


Page 271 of 516

“Reading unspoken pain through brain waves”: DGIST develops world’s first AI for objective pain assessment

Researchers developed technology to analyze electroencephalogram (EEG) signals triggered by thermal stimuli, classifying pain intensity objectively. The AI model reduces bias in subjective self-reported labels, improving performance compared to conventional models.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateJun 1, 2026

Commonly prescribed medication for sleep problems raises alarm bells

A clinical trial found that low-dose quetiapine improved sleep quality and reduced obstructive sleep apnea severity, but significantly impaired alertness and driving performance. The study highlights the need for caution when using sedating medications for insomnia in people with known or possible sleep apnea.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 1, 2026

Metacognitive laziness and AI: researchers propose a scale to measure a growing educational concern

A research team proposes the Metacognitive Laziness Scale (MLS) to measure students' tendency to delegate metacognitive tasks to AI systems. The study found significant positive associations between metacognitive laziness and disaffection with learning, suggesting that excessive reliance on AI may undermine academic achievement.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeSurvey·DateJun 1, 2026

Researchers create first-of-its-kind index of evolving policy landscape around health care AI

A new study analyzes 240 health care AI-related policies, finding accelerated oversight efforts but a lack of unified framework for clinical AI deployment. Governance challenges are emerging as AI adoption accelerates, requiring strong oversight and internal governance structures.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJun 1, 2026

Semiconductor performance increases 63-fold with only light... DGIST develops 2D semiconductor control technology

Researchers at DGIST developed Laser-Assisted Microlens Array Processing to create precise defects in 2D semiconductors. This technology resulted in a 63-fold increase in on-current and 51-fold improvement in field-effect mobility, making it suitable for next-gen ultra-compact semiconductors.

New global analysis confirms alcohol’s complex relationship with health: clear cancer risks and chronic liver diseases at any level, mixed evidence for other cardiometabolic conditions

The study found high-risk associations between alcohol use and all ten cancers examined, with risk increasing progressively as intake rose. Low-to-moderate drinking was associated with lower disease risk for type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, ischemic heart disease, and stroke.

Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of fat accumulation in liver and pancreas

Researchers highlight latest developments in pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of MASLD and IPFD, revealing correlations with chronic diseases like liver cancer and pancreatic cancer. Innovative treatments, such as AI-driven approaches and organ-targeted therapies, show promise for precision prevention and therapy.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalPortal Hypertension & Cirrhosis·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 1, 2026

Super-resolution image projection over an extended depth using an optical processor

Researchers developed a system integrating convolutional neural networks and all-optical passive diffractive decoders for super-resolution image projection. The hybrid platform achieved significant improvements in image synthesis over extended depth, reducing data requirements without additional power constraints.

Research alert: UC San Diego study uncovers molecular “shield” behind cancer immunotherapy resistance

Researchers identified microRNA-25 as a key player in creating an immune-suppressive tumor environment that resists cancer immunotherapy. Removing miR-25 reshaped the environment and activated anti-tumor immune responses, suggesting a potential target for converting 'cold' tumors into responsive 'hot' tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 1, 2026

Teachers’ emotions can make or break student learning

A study by the American Psychological Association found that teachers' enjoyment boosts instruction quality, boosting student confidence, interest, and academic performance. In contrast, teacher anger is linked to poorer teaching and worse student outcomes. Supporting teachers' emotional well-being is crucial for improving education sy...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 1, 2026

Textile wastewater treatment generates alarmingly high levels of toxic compounds

Researchers found that textile wastewater treatment produces high levels of toxic byproducts, including chloroform and bromoform, which pose significant health risks to workers and the environment. The study suggests that alternative treatment methods or improved worker protections may be necessary to mitigate these hazards.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2026

Cancer vaccine sustains 49 percent melanoma reduction after 5 years

A new study shows that a cancer vaccine in combination with immunotherapy reduces the risk of skin cancer recurrence and death by 49 percent. After five years, patients who received the combination therapy had a 68.8% chance of remaining cancer-free compared to 50.2% for those receiving immunotherapy alone.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 1, 2026

Clarifying the interplay between host and gut microbiota in selenium metabolism

Researchers investigated the interplay between host and gut microbiota in selenium metabolism, finding that gut microbiota transform selenium into metabolites influencing utilization, detoxification, and excretion. The study also revealed that Se intake affects bacterial diversity and that gut microbes produce unique selenometabolites.

SourceChiba University·JournalFood Bioscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2026

New low-cost tool reveals hidden molecular switch points under light

A new quantum chemistry method predicts the behavior of molecules under light with lower computational cost, enabling the study of larger systems and complex reaction pathways. This breakthrough advances the discovery of next-generation materials and deepens understanding of molecular behavior under light.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Chemical Theory and Computation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 1, 2026

Weight loss drugs risk widening health inequalities

The use of weight loss medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide could deepen existing health inequalities if patients lack access to nutrition advice, healthy food, and ongoing healthcare support. Researchers warn that poorer patients may face barriers to using these treatments safely and maintaining health improvements over time.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 1, 2026

Neuropixels Opto sheds new light on deepest regions of the brain

Researchers have developed a new device called Neuropixels Opto that can record and manipulate neuron activity in the brain. The device, published in Nature Methods, integrates electrophysiology and optogenetics to provide unprecedented insight into neural circuits and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2026

Middle-aged and older adults with autistic traits face rising anxiety over time

A UK study found that middle-aged and older adults with higher autistic traits are more likely to report worsening anxiety as they age. Researchers identified three distinct groups based on their anxiety responses over eight years, highlighting the importance of early identification and tailored support for this vulnerable minority.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeObservational study·DateJun 1, 2026

Secondary analysis of the digital insomnia therapy somnovia identifies a reduction in hyperarousal as a transdiagnostic mechanism of action and is published in the journal Behaviour Research and Therapy

A secondary analysis of the digital insomnia therapy somnovia identifies reducing hyperarousal as its primary mechanism of action for treating chronic insomnia. This process is linked to numerous other mental health conditions, suggesting positive effects beyond just sleep disorders.

SourceGAIA (Germany)·JournalBehaviour Research and Therapy·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 1, 2026

A virtual tomato training arena for harvesting robots

A team of researchers developed a method for creating realistic virtual tomato farms that automatically generate data for training agricultural AI systems. The approach uses advanced reconstruction methods and Unreal Engine 5 software to reproduce lighting, textures, and geometry, resulting in highly accurate object detection models.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalSmart Agricultural Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2026

World record: 450 Tb/s transmission over a metropolitan link using legacy optical fiber

Researchers have demonstrated a record-breaking 450 terabits per second optical transmission over a field-deployed legacy fiber in London, UK. The achievement uses new optical-amplifier technologies to support ultra-wideband signals, exceeding previous records and unlocking previously untapped capacity in standard optical fibers.

How the EU’s carbon price on imports strengthens climate policies globally

A new study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research finds that the EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) can trigger other countries to adopt carbon pricing. This could lead to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, with up to 73% more emissions avoided compared to current policies.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalJournal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 1, 2026

Presence of Staphylococcus aureus amplifies zinc oxide nanoparticle toxicity in skin cells

The study found that S. aureus significantly intensifies ZnO nanoparticle-induced oxidative stress, inflammatory signaling, and cellular damage. The authors suggest that considering the skin microbiota is crucial for evaluating nanoparticle safety.

SourceJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2026

Snap-loading cells into uniform microcapsules

The new method allows for scalable production of cell-containing capsules, maintaining cell viability and enabling studies on dynamic interactions. Researchers can customize capsule size and properties, making the technique useful for drug screening, regenerative medicine, and basic cell biology research.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2026

Defect-engineered TiO2/Zn0.5Cd0.5S S-Scheme heterojunction for photocatalytic H2 evolution

Researchers have developed a defect-engineered TiO2/Zn0.5Cd0.5S S-Scheme heterojunction for enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution, achieving superior efficiency and stability. The synergistic integration of oxygen vacancy and S-scheme charge transfer pathways enhances light absorption, electron separation, and redox capacity.

Pisiform homojunction with energy band bending induced via co‑implantation design enabling fast‑charging sodium‑sulfur battery

Researchers develop a new material design to overcome kinetic and stability issues in sodium-sulfur batteries, enabling fast-charging capabilities. The innovative pisiform homojunction creates a p-n interface that accelerates polysulfide conversion and stabilizes battery performance.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMay 31, 2026

Largest study of prostate cancer in Brazil’s public health system reveals racial inequalities in diagnosis and treatment

A recent study analyzing 670,000 patients found a higher frequency of advanced disease among non-white men and differences in access to modern therapies. The study also revealed significant racial inequalities in treatment costs, with white patients receiving 16.2% more funding.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 31, 2026

ASCO: Targeted therapy combo nearly doubles time without disease progression for patients with advanced colorectal cancer

A Phase 3 trial showed a 56% reduction in the risk of disease progression or death for patients with BRAF V600E mutant metastatic colorectal cancer treated with a targeted therapy combination. The treatment improved median progression-free survival and overall survival, with nearly 75% of patients alive at 18 months.