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Science News for April 12, 2026


The hidden logic behind AI’s judgments of people

A new study reveals that AI systems mimic the structure of human judgment but with a more rigid, rule-based approach. The researchers found biases in AI judgments, especially across demographic traits, highlighting the need for awareness and understanding how these systems 'think'.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2026

Atmospheric self-cleansing capacity at northern midlatitude regions is reaching a turning point

Research reveals OH concentrations in China, Europe, and US are 300% higher than in clean regions, linked to increased NOx emissions. The study's observation-based approach provides a reliable characterization of long-term hydroxyl changes, shedding light on the impact of human activities on atmospheric oxidation capacity

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 12, 2026

Can hyper-real virtual worlds make us feel better?

A recent study from Murdoch University suggests that certain design elements in virtual reality environments can induce positive emotional states, including awe, joy, and calm. The research highlights the potential of virtual reality to be used for mental health and stress reduction, nature-based wellbeing, and education.

SourceMurdoch University·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Interaction·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 12, 2026

Single-atom catalyst enables high-efficiency electrocatalytic ethylene epoxidation

A research team from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics has developed a novel strategy for direct electrocatalytic ethylene epoxidation using a platinum single-atom catalyst. The catalyst enhances EO production efficiency by stabilizing superoxo species, achieving a Faradaic efficiency of 74% and a partial current density of 71 m...

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 12, 2026

Self‑sensing NiFe@N‑doped carbon aerogel: Integrating excellent radar stealth, inherent structural health monitoring, thermal management, and flame retardancy

Researchers have developed a self-sensing NiFe@N-doped carbon aerogel that seamlessly integrates multiple essential functionalities into a single lightweight structure. The aerogel addresses critical operational requirements such as real-time damage detection, thermal protection, and fire safety for aerospace, defense, and advanced ele...

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateApr 12, 2026

A proof-of-concept comparison of Azure Kinect and Smartphone-based OpenCap for driving musculoskeletal simulations: A unified framework with foot-ground contact modeling

A proof-of-concept comparison between Azure Kinect and OpenCap shows that the smartphone-based system can accurately estimate lower-limb biomechanics, with strong agreements in joint angles and contact forces. However, further studies are needed to confirm its applicability for clinical diagnosis.

High-dimensional multiplexing through vortex electromagnetic wave manipulation by space–time–coding metasurfaces

Researchers developed a dual-polarized asynchronous space-time-coding metasurface to control vortex electromagnetic waves, enabling high-dimensional multiplexing. This technology increases data rates and connectivity by exploiting three dimensions: OAM mode, polarization, and frequency.

Beyond 1000 nm low-energy sunlight-driven photocatalysis

Scientists have developed a new system enabling unprecedented large-volume photocatalysis driven by low-energy sunlight with wavelengths beyond 1000 nm. The hybrid QDs/Th-DPP NIR-II photosensitizers achieved a record upconversion efficiency of 3.9%, overcoming spectral limitations of visible-light technologies.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateApr 12, 2026

Atomic-scale tracking of sodium metal-electrolyte reactions via adaptive machine learning force fields

The study uses adaptive machine learning force fields to track sodium metal-electrolyte reactions, achieving a 71% speedup over ab initio molecular dynamics while retaining comparable accuracy. The approach identifies key components of the solid electrolyte interphase, including Na2O and NaOH, which influence its stability.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 12, 2026

Oxide-based sensor opens door to greener, faster, more accurate quality testing of food

A novel sensor made of strontium oxide, functionalized carbon black, and reduced graphene oxide detects theobromine in foods, beverages, and pharmaceuticals with high accuracy and speed. The sensor's neutral pH and low sample amounts make it safer and more environmentally friendly than traditional methods.

SourceOregon State University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2026