New Michelin star jellyfish discovered in Japanese aquaria
Researchers have discovered a new species of jellyfish, Malagazzia michelin, found in Japanese waters. The species has distinctive brown spots and a hemispherical umbrella-shaped body.
Science News Archive 2026
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Women more likely to choose wine from female winemakers
Research from Washington State University found that women are willing to pay higher prices for wines made by female winemakers, particularly those featuring feminine gender cues. The study suggests that promoting women's ownership in wineries can increase sales among the largest group of U.S. wine consumers, who happen to be women.
Study finds no evidence of persistent tick-borne infection in people who link chronic illness to ticks
Researchers studied Norwegians with reported chronic health problems linked to tick bites, finding no objective evidence of persistent infections. The study suggests that physical activity and labour force participation may be more related to symptoms than tick exposure.
E-waste chemicals are appearing in dolphins and porpoises
Research reveals that liquid crystal monomers from household electronics accumulate in the brains of endangered dolphins and porpoises. The chemicals have been linked to altered gene activity and potentially negative impacts on marine mammals.
Largest image of its kind shows hidden chemistry at the heart of the Milky Way
Astronomers have captured unprecedented detail of cosmic gas in the Milky Way's Central Molecular Zone, revealing intricate chemistry and complex star-forming processes. The dataset provides a unique view of the raw material from which stars form, shedding light on galaxy evolution and the birth of massive stars.
Researchers warn: opioids aren’t effective for many acute pain conditions
The study found that opioids provide only small, time-limited pain relief for certain pain conditions, such as stomach pain and dental surgery. Regular use of opioids comes with a risk of harm, including dependence and overdose.
JBNU researchers review advances in pyrochlore oxide-based dielectric energy storage technology
Pyrochlore oxides represent a promising next-generation approach to efficient energy storage, offering high-energy density, thermal stability, and low dielectric loss. Their potential applications include multilayer ceramic capacitors, power conditioning circuits, and miniaturized capacitors for aerospace electronics.
Novel cellular phenomenon reveals how immune cells extract nuclear DNA from dying cells
Immune cells have been found to selectively extract nuclear DNA from dying cells, a regulated cellular function that challenges traditional views of the nucleus. This discovery, known as nucleocytosis, may hold implications for understanding autoimmune diseases, infections, and cancer, as well as informing drug development strategies.
Printable enzyme ink powers next-generation wearable biosensors
Researchers have developed a printable enzyme ink that simplifies the mass production of enzymatic biofuel cells, paving the way for self-powered wearable sensors. The ink enables the creation of high-performance electrodes with minimal decay, suitable for real-world monitoring applications.
Your car’s tire sensors could be used to track you
Researchers at IMDEA Networks Institute discovered that tire pressure sensors in modern cars can be used to track vehicles and infer movement patterns. The study highlights the need for stronger security measures in future vehicle sensor systems.
Vessel traffic alters behavior, stress and population trends of marine megafauna
A global analysis of over 40 years of scientific research reveals that vessel traffic affects animal behavior, communication, and stress physiology in marine megafauna. The study identifies stronger responses from species like sea turtles and weaker impacts on others, such as large fishes and sharks.
Unique analysis shows air-con heat relief significantly worsens climate change
A new study reveals that air-conditioning use will more than double by 2050, causing up to 8.5 GtCO₂‑eq per year in the worst-case scenario. This is equivalent to around 74–183 billion transatlantic return flights and adds 0.03°C to 0.07°C of global warming.
People’s gut bacteria worse in areas with higher social deprivation
Research found that people living in deprived areas have less diverse gut microbiomes, leading to increased inflammation and poorer metabolic health. The study identified 12 bacterial species associated with deprivation, including those negatively linked to anxiety and diabetes.
Research confirms that ocean warming causes an annual decline in fish biomass of up to 19.8%
A new study reveals that ocean warming is driving a nearly 20% annual decline in fish biomass, with extreme marine heatwaves sometimes masking this trend. The research highlights the importance of international cooperation and long-term planning in fisheries management to address the ongoing rise in temperature.
Keto diet may restore exercise benefits in people with high blood sugar
A ketogenic diet reduced high blood sugar and improved aerobic capacity in mice with hyperglycemia. The diet caused remodeling of their muscles, making them more oxidative and reactive to aerobic exercise. Researchers believe that combining the keto diet with exercise may be key to achieving optimal health benefits.
6 in 10 US women projected to have at least one type of cardiovascular disease by 2050
A new American Heart Association scientific statement projects that nearly 6 in 10 US women will have some type of cardiovascular disease by 2050, driven by rising rates in high blood pressure and other health factors. The economic burden is expected to be at least $200 billion annually.
Manchester researchers challenge misleading language around plastic waste solutions
A new study by Manchester researchers argues that directional terms like 'upcycling' and 'downcycling' can skew perceptions of plastic sustainability. The study suggests that a more nuanced approach is needed to evaluate the environmental impact of recycling technologies.
Local water supply crucial to success of hydrogen initiative in Europe
A new study from Chalmers University finds that local water supply is critical to the success of Europe's hydrogen initiative, with some regions facing severe water shortages if production is not planned carefully. The research suggests that areas like Sweden's Sörmland and Roslagen could be hard-pressed even without hydrogen production.
New blood test score detects hidden alcohol-related liver disease
A new blood test score, MetALD-ALD Prediction Index (MAPI), has been developed to identify when fatty liver disease is driven by excessive alcohol use. The tool uses five standard lab values and can estimate whether a person with fatty liver disease may have alcohol-related liver injury.
Do certain circulating small non-coding RNAs affect longevity?
Researchers identified nine piRNAs linked to longevity, which could be detected through simple blood tests. The study suggests that these molecules may help predict survival and guide therapeutic targets for older adults.
Code for Earth launches 2026 climate and weather data challenges
The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) is launching its 2026 climate and weather data challenges to improve rapid decision-making during wildfires, explore flood forecast data from 10,000 stations globally, and detect implausible behavior in machine learning. The deadline for applications is April 9, 2026.
High risk of readmission and death among heart failure patients
A study published in European Heart Journal found that nearly half of hospitalised heart failure patients are readmitted within a year, with the risk of death also remaining high. Patients with severely reduced heart function face the highest risk, highlighting the need for careful follow-up and tailored care.
New blood test signals who is most likely to live longer, study finds
A new study from Duke University Medical Center suggests that a simple blood test can accurately predict short-term survival in older adults by detecting specific piRNA molecules. Lower levels of these molecules are linked to longer survival, echoing patterns seen in simple organisms where reducing them can extend lifespan.
Three women named Britain’s Brightest Young Scientists, each winning ‘unrestricted’ £100,000 Blavatnik Awards prize
The Blavatnik Awards recognize exceptional early-career achievements in Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, and Physical Sciences & Engineering. The 2026 Laureates are Maxie M. Roessler, Thi Hoang Duong Nguyen, and Paola Pinilla.
Have abortion-related laws affected broader access to maternal health care?
A study found that Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers (TRAP) laws significantly reduced the supply of obstetricians and gynecologists, particularly older and newly trained doctors. This led to a decline in more than 2 obstetrician-gynecologists per 100,000 females aged 15–44 years.
How well are international guidelines followed for certain medications for high-risk pregnancies?
A study found that international guidelines for preterm delivery are often not followed, leading to varying levels of exposure to life-saving medications. In high-income countries, there were significant discrepancies in the use of these treatments.
Do muscles remember being weak?
New research reveals that skeletal muscle retains a 'molecular memory' of repeated disuse, which differs between young and old muscles. Younger muscles show resilience, while older muscles become increasingly susceptible to atrophy. The study provides insights into how muscle responds to inactivity and its potential for recovery.
Global gaps in use of two life-saving antenatal treatments for premature babies, reveals worldwide analysis
A global analysis of two antenatal treatments reveals significant international variation in implementation, with higher-income countries showing better uptake. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the reasons behind these disparities and improve global equity in essential antenatal treatments.
High-risk patients account for 80% of post-surgery deaths
A major new study found that high-risk patients, who tend to be older and live with several long-term health conditions, have poor outcomes after surgery. The study highlights the need for greater investment in specialist perioperative services to focus on the care of older, high-risk patients before, during and after surgery.
Bug beats: caterpillars use complex rhythms to communicate with ants
Researchers found caterpillars mimic ant signals using precise rhythmic beats to gain acceptance, feeding, and protection. The most ant-dependent species produce regular, complex rhythms similar to those used by ants.
Celebrity dolphin of Venice doesn’t need special protection – except from humans
A solitary bottlenose dolphin in the Venetian Lagoon is monitored by researchers who assess its remarkable adaptation to urban surroundings. The team highlights the need for human behavior management to ensure the dolphin's welfare, rather than focusing on wildlife protection measures.
Tulane study reveals key differences in long-term brain effects of COVID-19 and flu
A new Tulane University study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 infection causes persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus is no longer detectable. This finding helps explain why long COVID often includes neurological symptoms such as brain fog and fatigue.
AI may boost productivity — but it can hurt a creator’s reputation, new research finds
A recent study reveals that creators who disclose using AI face negative judgments from others, despite their reputation. This gap between technological capability and social perception highlights the need for creators to manage perceptions surrounding how their work was created.
Would you feel comfortable talking to your boss if you had a problem with alcohol or other drugs?
A new Flinders University study reveals that fear of punishment and lack of trust in management are major barriers to tackling alcohol and drug risks at work. SBIRT, a health-based approach, is proposed as a solution, but its effectiveness depends on trust and confidentiality.
The nanozymes hypothesis of the origin of life (on Earth) proposed
The nanozymes hypothesis suggests that natural mineral nanozymes played a crucial role in the origin of life on Earth, catalyzing the generation of prehistoric small life molecules from nonliving matter. These nanozymes enabled informationization of energy into molecules necessary for living systems.
The long standing commercialization challenge of lithium batteries, often called the dream battery, has been solved.
A Korean research team developed a technology that resolves the most critical challenge of lithium-metal batteries, interfacial instability, by creating an intelligent protective layer. This allows lithium ions to move stably along the electrode surface, suppressing dendrite growth and extending battery lifespan.
Scientists discover land plants began reshaping Earth 455 million years ago
Early land plants began reshaping Earth's surface environments approximately 455 million years ago, boosting organic matter production on land. This increased terrestrial photosynthesis led to elevated organic carbon-to-phosphorus ratios in marine sediments, indicating a significant impact on the Earth system.
New method to remove toxic PFAS chemicals from water
Researchers at Flinders University have developed a new method to remove toxic PFAS chemicals from water using nano-sized molecular cages. The study successfully captures short-chain variants of the pollutants, which are notoriously difficult to isolate.
Scientists achieve record efficiency in industrial tunnel oxide passivating contact solar cells
Chinese scientists have developed a dual-side electrical refinement strategy for large-area TOPCon solar cells, achieving an open-circuit voltage of 744.6 mV and a fill factor of 85.57%. The breakthrough sets a new record for industrial-scale solar cells, narrowing the gap between mass-production efficiency and theoretical limit.
Researchers highlight promise of biochar composites for sustainable 3D printing
Recent advances in biochar-polymer composites suggest the use of renewable materials for additive manufacturing. Biochar enhances mechanical and thermal properties, reducing environmental impact while improving material performance.
Machine learning helps design low-cost biochar to fight phosphorus pollution in lakes
Researchers developed a machine learning-guided strategy to design advanced biochar materials that remove phosphorus efficiently while lowering treatment costs. The study provides a practical pathway for restoring eutrophic waters at large scale.
Microalgae-derived biochar enables fast, low-cost detection of hydrogen peroxide
Researchers developed a nickel-enriched biochar from marine microalgae that can detect hydrogen peroxide at low concentrations, with fast response times. The sensor's stability and sensitivity are improved by the uniform distribution of catalytic sites.
Urine tests confirm alcohol consumption in wild African chimpanzees
A recent study has confirmed that wild African chimpanzees consume significant quantities of alcohol, with 17 out of 20 urine samples containing ethyl glucuronide, a metabolic byproduct of ethanol. The chimps' diet likely consists of fermented fruits, which provide around 14 grams of ethanol per day.
Lifespan-extending treatments increase variation in age at time of death
Lifespan-extending treatments and dietary restriction have increased variance in age-at-death in vertebrates, failing to 'square the survival curve'. The findings highlight that current interventions do not equally benefit all individuals, leading to a biological lottery.
Adolescent cannabis use may follow the same pattern as alcohol use
A new study based on extensive data from Swedish school surveys found that changes in average cannabis use among adolescents are reflected across the entire group. The distribution of cannabis use has remained highly stable over time, with increases or decreases occurring in parallel across all user groups.
Anion-cation synergistic additives solve the "performance triangle" problem in zinc-iodine batteries
Researchers propose a new electrolyte additive strategy to solve three core challenges in zinc-iodine batteries: sluggish iodine reaction kinetics, polyiodide shuttle effect, and zinc dendrite growth. The study achieved ultra-long cycle stability and excellent performance with minimal capacity decay.
Pre-pregnancy parental overweight/obesity linked to next generation’s heightened fatty liver disease risk
Research published in the journal Gut found that pre-pregnancy parental overweight and obesity are independently associated with increased odds of developing metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in children by age 24. Cumulative excess weight in childhood significantly influences this risk, with children who...
Barshop Institute to receive up to $38 million from ARPA-H, anchoring UT San Antonio as a national leader in aging and healthy longevity science
The Barshop Institute will conduct the VITAL-H trial, evaluating the repurposing of FDA-approved medications to delay age-related health decline in generally healthy middle-aged adults. The trial aims to preserve everyday abilities during a critical window of midlife aging.
From ancient myths to ‘Indo-manga’: Artists in the Global South are reframing the comic
A new volume of comics studies argues that comics from the Global South need to be read on their own cultural terms, highlighting their use as a tool for resistance, identity assertion, and social change. The book showcases diverse case studies from Latin America, Africa, Asia, and beyond.
Guidelines set new playbook for pediatric clinical trial reporting
Researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children have developed new guidelines for pediatric clinical trial reporting, incorporating child and youth-focused considerations. The SPIRIT-C 2026 and CONSORT-C 2026 guidelines aim to improve the quality, transparency, and usefulness of pediatric RCT protocols and final reports.
Obstructive sleep apnoea may cost UK + US economies billions in lost productivity
A study suggests that obstructive sleep apnea affects around 1 in 5 adults in both countries, resulting in significant annual productivity loss. The estimated total annual productivity loss in the USA could be as high as US$180.2 billion, with an annual productivity loss of $3727 for each worker affected.
Ancient diets reveal surprising survival strategies in prehistoric Poland
Researchers reconstructed diets of prehistoric communities in north-central Poland, shedding light on how people adapted to changing environments and social landscapes. The study found that Corded Ware communities herded animals in forests and that millet consumption varied among groups, reflecting identity and group boundaries.
Putting some ‘muscle’ into material design
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have created protein fibers that can exhibit high tensile strength, toughness, and mechanical stability, making them suitable for active wear and biomedical implants. The materials are grown using synthetic biology approaches and can be processed into a meat-like structure.
House fires release harmful compounds into the air
New research reveals that house fires release harmful compounds into the air, with synthetic materials like plastics and insulation contributing to higher levels of VOCs. However, their impact is often muted due to their small composition fraction in a typical home.
Novel structural insights into Phytophthora effectors challenge long-held assumptions in plant pathology
Researchers at FABI define a conserved subset of Phytophthora RxLR effectors with short linear motifs embedded within folded WY domain cores. This arrangement preserves domain integrity while enabling potential interactions with host immune components, reframing pathogen strategies and challenging SLiM dogma.
Chapman University researcher warns of structural risks at Grand Renaissance Dam putting property and lives in danger
A new peer-reviewed study led by Dr. Hesham El-Askary finds significant vulnerabilities in the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam's saddle dam due to leaks and seismic activity, posing a threat to downstream communities and infrastructure if urgent monitoring and mitigation steps are not taken.
A new ecological model highlights how fluctuating environments push microbes to work together
Researchers develop mathematical model to capture microbial cooperation and community stability, predicting the outcome of experiments with E. coli strains. The model's results show that auxotrophs contribute to stable communities by trading essential nutrients and limiting growth.
Heads or tails: Does it matter what part of a therapy dog gets patted?
A UBCO study found that all forms of touch with therapy dogs contribute positively to participants' emotional wellbeing, regardless of which part is interacted with. The research suggests that simple interaction with a therapy dog can make a difference in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
Courtship is complicated, even in fruit flies
Researchers used computer vision and machine learning to study Drosophila melanogaster courtship. They found that males rely on specific visual cues, particularly the female's eyes, to determine her anterior-posterior body axis. This recognition shapes when and how different elements of courtship are deployed.
Q&A: Researchers discuss potential solutions for the feedback loop affecting scientific publishing
The peer review process is facing a crisis due to an increasing number of manuscript submissions and a decline in willing peer reviewers. Researchers propose potential interventions to address this issue, including selecting high-quality reviewing and using machine learning to support editors. This could help maintain the credibility o...