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Science News for April 27, 2026


New peer-reviewed study: Bottom trawling in Europe’s waters costs society up to €16 billion annually — mostly due to climate impacts

A new peer-reviewed study finds that bottom trawling in European waters results in significant economic losses, with annual costs reaching up to €16 billion. The destructive fishing practice is also found to be a major contributor to climate change, with its impacts felt throughout the region's marine ecosystems.

SourceNational Geographic Pristine Seas·JournalOcean & Coastal Management·DateApr 27, 2026

Study reveals soil, not fertilizer, is primary source of nitrogen gas loss in rice paddies

A new study led by Prof. YAN Xiaoyuan finds that most nitrogen gas emissions from rice paddies originate from soil organic nitrogen, rather than applied fertilizers. The researchers propose a novel mechanism to explain this phenomenon, suggesting that fertilizer activates soil nitrogen pools, indirectly driving larger nitrogen losses.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

Machine learning facilitates the development of China's 1-km daily soil moisture dataset

A new study developed China's high-precision, 1 km resolution soil moisture dataset using machine learning techniques. This dataset enables daily monitoring of soil dryness and wetness conditions across the country, providing critical support for drought early warning, flood forecasting, and agricultural management.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 27, 2026

Quantum light sources empowered by monolithic microcavity-metalens interfaces

A new device combines high-performance single-photon generation with multidimensional state engineering, enabling flexible control over photon properties. The integrated platform delivers record-breaking source performance and opens up opportunities for resilient quantum entanglement and high-dimensional quantum communication.

Conquering the final frontiers in nanographene synthetic methodologies

Researchers have developed a new methodology for selective molecular transformations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), targeting the challenging L-region. This enables the creation of larger PAH structures and new nanographenes, increasing versatility in technological applications.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

CityUHK research team develops tool for estimating methane emissions from sewer networks, breaking through a blind spot in reducing global emissions

A new tool estimates that global sewer systems emit 1.18 to 1.95 million tons of methane annually, contributing to global warming and climate change. The study confirms that urban sewers are a quantifiable source of methane emissions, highlighting the need for their inclusion in greenhouse gas accounting.

New experimental drug may restore movement after stroke

Researchers discovered that strokes cause a chain reaction within the brain, leading to neuronal cell death. They found that blocking collagen production can prevent this damage and even restore motor function in paralyzed monkeys. The new drug KDS12025 reduces hydrogen peroxide levels and prevents the entire process from being triggered.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

One protein, two roles

Researchers found that Adgrl2 plays a crucial role in building both brain synapses and blood vessels, with different cell types producing distinct versions of the protein. Removing Adgrl2 from endothelial cells caused blood vessels to become leaky and lose their integrity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

Physical embedded machine learning force fields for organic systems

Researchers propose two physical embedding solutions to improve machine learning force fields' accuracy and stability in organic systems. The first method uses adaptive bond length sampling, effectively covering high-energy bond length regions prone to simulation collapse. The second method employs top-down model correction using physi...

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 27, 2026

Why dolphins swim so fast: the secrets of eddies

A team of researchers from The University of Osaka used supercomputer simulations to study how vortices generated by dolphin kicks power fast swimming. They found that large, powerful vortices created by the movement of the dolphin's tail are responsible for most of the propulsion, while smaller ones contribute little to forward motion.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2026

Cells under the spotlight reveal their inner secrets

Scientists discovered a method to predict cellular protein makeup from Raman light measurements, leveraging the power of Raman spectroscopy. The technique reveals globally coordinated abundance ratios across various conditions, with a core of proteins maintaining stability while smaller groups adapt to environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

Researchers discovered body’s response that protects from atherosclerosis

A study published in PNAS reveals that endothelial cells can repair DNA damage caused by disturbed flow, slowing atherosclerosis progression. Supplementing purines reverts these effects, suggesting future therapies targeting endothelial DNA repair could complement cholesterol-lowering drugs.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

Drugging the undruggable: Scientists achieve million-fold leap in targeting elusive cancer proteins

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a new method to target intrinsically disordered proteins, which are difficult to treat with medication. The approach has shown promise in slowing prostate cancer growth and could lead to new treatments for various diseases.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

Biochar-powered hydrogels boost solar water evaporation efficiency for sustainable desalination

Researchers developed a hybrid material combining biochar with polyzwitterionic hydrogel, achieving an evaporation rate of 3.57 kg/m²/h under standard sunlight conditions. The biochar enhances light absorption, water transport, and energy efficiency, making it suitable for seawater desalination applications.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

Turning “wastewater” into a resource: New insights on liquid fertilizer from hydrothermal carbonization

Process water from hydrothermal carbonization contains substantial amounts of nutrients and organic compounds, making it a nutrient-rich resource for crop production and environmental management. Diluting the liquid or using pre-treatment methods can reduce risks associated with its use.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 27, 2026

Physics can be hard. Mindfulness may help.

A new study from the University of Pittsburgh found that mindfulness training can help students build resilience in the face of emotional threats, leading to increased engagement in college physics. After five days of training, students reported feeling less threatened and more motivated to learn.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2026

Innovative procedure outperforms drugs for advanced atrial fibrillation

A minimally invasive catheter ablation procedure has been shown to provide substantial benefits for patients with advanced forms of atrial fibrillation. By targeting faulty electrical signaling in the heart, the procedure can lead to improved control of the disease and reduced risk of serious adverse events.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 27, 2026

Why stars spin down, or up, before they die

Astronomers using astroseismology have found that massive stars' rotation rates decrease with age, but a new study suggests this may not be the case. The research team used 3D simulations to investigate how magnetic fields affect rotation inside massive stars, revealing that some configurations can spin the core up.

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 27, 2026

JMIR report: Can digital twins fix hospital patient bottlenecks?

The report highlights the operational wins of health systems utilizing digital twin technology, including reduced ER wait times, increased patient throughput, and optimized surgical blocks. Successful deployment depends on data integrity and a shared definition of reality across the organization.

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 27, 2026

Umbilical cord blood transplant with pooled stem cell product shows 96% survival and no graft-versus-host-disease in leukemia patients

A phase 2 study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that a stem cell product called dilanubicel safely enabled umbilical cord blood transplants in 28 patients with leukemias and myelodysplastic syndrome, resulting in a 96% survival rate. The pooled stem cells provided essential early immune support, helping patients est...

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 27, 2026

Study suggests fibroid rates in Latina women may be lower than previously thought

A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology finds that approximately 11.8% of reproductive-age Latina women have fibroids, lower than previously estimated rates. The study, led by Michigan Medicine researchers, used ultrasound-confirmed diagnoses to confirm fibroid cases.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 27, 2026

How a mental health strategy helps young adults navigate cancer diagnosis

Researchers at Rutgers University tested the efficacy of Bright IDEAS, a problem-solving skills training intervention, in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms and improving health-related quality of life among young adults with cancer. The study found significant reductions in symptoms and improvements in quality of life compared t...

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 27, 2026

To spread ideas farther, break connections

A new theoretical framework shows that when interactions shift away from familiar contacts, activity can spread more widely. The study suggests that whether something spreads or stalls may hinge on a simple choice: revisit the same connections or explore new ones.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 27, 2026

Giants that vanished 10,000 years ago triggered ripple effects that are still felt today, and here’s where

A new study reveals that the disappearance of large mammals led to significant changes in food webs across different continents. The researchers found that regions with more severe past extinctions had distinct differences in their current mammal populations, indicating a lasting impact on food webs.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2026

Better cumulative cardiovascular health during young and mid-adulthood has strong associations with cardiovascular disease, death later in life

Researchers found strong associations between better cumulative cardiovascular health in young and mid-adulthood and lower risks of cardiovascular disease and death. Higher LE8 scores were associated with a 73% lower risk of CVD compared to those at the lowest quartile.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJACC Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2026

Sustained changes in postoperative pain management after parotidectomy linked to AAO-HNSF opioid prescribing guideline

A new study finds that specialty-specific clinical practice guidelines can significantly impact postoperative pain management and reduce long-term risk of opioid exposure. The AAO-HNSF opioid prescribing guideline was effective in reducing opioid prescribing after parotidectomy, promoting a multimodal approach to pain management.

UC3M research proposes a method to enhance electoral representation and group decision-making

A study by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid proposes Proportional Justified Representation (PJR), a balanced and flexible tool that ensures mathematically perfect solutions, preventing significant groups from being excluded. The method has applications in electoral voting systems, expert committee selection, and recommendation systems.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalArtificial Intelligence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2026

Apixaban linked to fewer blood clot complications in older adults than other blood thinners

A new study found that apixaban is associated with fewer major complications and more days at home for older adults with venous thromboembolism than other blood thinners. Apixaban was also linked to a lower combined risk of recurrent blood clots or death within one year compared to warfarin.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Hematology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2026

Helping ensure science is at the heart of mindful eating technology design

Lancaster University researchers created a new toolset to guide developers in designing digital technologies that support mindful eating. The toolset, MEDEC cards, provides practical guidelines for designers and health practitioners, aligning with evidence-based health research and ensuring safe and effective solutions.

SourceLancaster University·JournalACM Transactions on Computer-Human Interaction·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 27, 2026

​​​​​​​Research identifies slow-wave sleep activity as regulator for anxiety in older adults

A new study from Center for BrainHealth researchers found that declining slow-wave activity during sleep explains why anxiety rises in older adults. Participants who generated fewer slow waves woke up more anxious the next morning, while those with stronger slow-wave sleep did not show the same pattern.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalCommunications Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 27, 2026

Common claim that most transgender youth renounce that identity is not supported by statistics, VCU research finds

A new study from VCU found that rates of transgender identity persistence and desistance can range from zero to 100% depending on data interpretation. The research challenges the narrative that most transgender youth desist from their identity, supporting gender-affirming care for minors.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalPsychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity·DateApr 27, 2026

Construction industry urged to shift from zero-tolerance to embrace action errors for learning

A new perspective paper calls on construction organizations to adopt an error management approach that treats unintentional action errors as valuable for organizational learning and innovation. Action errors can be categorized into individual, team, and organizational levels, with distinct causes and implications. Embracing action erro...

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalEngineering·DateApr 27, 2026

The cost of delaying childhood vaccination

A new study from Cornell University found that delaying the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine after birth leads to increased infections and higher healthcare costs. The longer the delay, the more severe the consequences for newborns, who are at high risk of developing chronic infections and premature death.

SourceCornell University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 27, 2026

Medicaid expansion helped enrollees’ long-term financial health, study finds

A new study found that Michigan Medicaid expansion helped enrollees significantly reduce their medical debt in collections by up to 75% within seven years of enrollment. Additionally, the study shows substantial drops in sub-prime credit scores, improving financial stability and long-term health outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2026

Better volcano eruption predictions on Earth--and Venus--thanks to Mauna Loa study

Researchers used machine learning algorithms to analyze satellite data, combining public and private sources to predict lava flow patterns. The study's findings can aid in early warning systems for volcanic eruptions, providing critical information for safety and analysis.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 27, 2026

Mimicking nature’s twist: time-evolving helicity in a polymer

A team of scientists developed a chlorophyll-based supramolecular polymer that can gradually evolve from nonhelical fibers into well-defined helical structures. The transformation occurs cooperatively and is driven by small energy differences between stable arrangements, offering a blueprint for designing dynamic helical structures.

SourceChiba University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

MIT researchers find self-organizing “pencil beam” laser could help scientists design brain-targeted therapies

Researchers leveraged a surprise discovery to devise a new bioimaging method that captures 3D images of the human blood-brain barrier 25 times faster than existing technology. This technique enables scientists to test whether new drugs for neurodegenerative diseases reach their targets in the brain.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 27, 2026

Origin of the stellar Fe Kα line revealed!

A team of researchers at Kyoto University used NICER and Hisaki to study a superflare on the star UX Arietis, finding that photoionization is the dominant mechanism behind the iron Kα line. This discovery provides a diagnostic tool for astronomers to infer flare locations on stellar surfaces.

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateApr 27, 2026

Hydraulic brain: Body motion linked to fluid movement in the brain

A study using mice and simulations found that abdominal contractions compress blood vessels connected to the spinal cord and brain, enabling gentle brain movement that facilitates cerebrospinal fluid flow and potentially removes neural waste. This mechanism may explain why exercise is thought to benefit brain health.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 27, 2026

Group averages obscure how an individual’s brain controls behavior, Stanford Medicine study finds

A new Stanford Medicine study shows that brain-scan averages obscure individual brain dynamics, particularly in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. By analyzing data from over 4,000 children, researchers found distinct patterns of brain activity when data is analyzed individually versus as a group.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateApr 27, 2026

How pathogens switch on their virulence

A research team at the University of Basel has uncovered how a key protein switches on the machinery that enables Leptospira pathogens to survive and cause disease. By understanding this process, scientists may design drugs that keep the pathogen from becoming virulent, preventing severe cases and reducing mortality.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2026

Who do tipsters really work for?

Adolescents who follow social media tipsters report higher gambling intention and increased frequency. The study highlights the need for stronger regulation of tipster-related marketing and media literacy programmes to address persuasive strategies and improve risk awareness.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalJournal of Gambling Studies·TypeSurvey·DateApr 27, 2026

Novel study maps changes in US immigration policy landscape since 9/11

A comprehensive analysis of US state and local sanctuary and anti-sanctuary policies reveals associations with immigrants' health outcomes. Sanctuary policies are linked to improved community trust, reduced crime, and higher employment rates, while anti-sanctuary policies increase deportation risk and negatively impact mental health.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2026

‘The cause might be vibrating pipes rather than restless spirits’: increased stress and irritability from infrasound exposure may explain paranormal experiences

Researchers suggest that infrasound, a type of low-frequency sound undetectable by humans, may explain paranormal experiences. Exposure to infrasound has been shown to increase cortisol levels and irritability, even if participants are unaware they are listening to it.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026