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Science News Archive April 2026 - Page 3


Page 3 of 55

Stem cell memory CAR T cells achieve complete remissions at low doses without chemotherapy preconditioning

Researchers developed a highly homogeneous population of stem cell memory T cells that exhibit superior expansion and persistence, enabling complete responses at low doses. The study showed a favorable tolerability profile and demonstrated the separation between beneficial effects and toxic consequences.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Immunotherapy·JournalCell·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 30, 2026

Innovation and ecological collapse gave rise to the tropics’ most important decomposers

Termites became the backbone of tropical ecosystems after two diversification pulses following global extinctions. The traits that define modern termites, such as soil-eating and fungus agriculture, emerged in distinct pulses about 30 million years apart, according to a new study published in Current Biology.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 30, 2026

A gene that keeps stem cells from losing their way

Researchers have identified a gene, eIF4G2, crucial for keeping adult intestinal stem cells stable and functional. The study reveals that the gene plays a vital role in regulating protein production and maintaining stem cell identity.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 30, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Silencing stress signals could pave the way to a longer life, study reveals

Researchers found that suppressing the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) pathway in fruit flies extended their lifespan. The study contradicts previous theories suggesting mild stress might increase longevity. By understanding how ISR affects aging, scientists may develop pharmacological treatments to slow down the aging process.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2026

Blood tests taken years earlier linked to pregnancy risk

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that small abnormalities in blood sugar, lipids, and inflammation years before pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and pre-eclampsia. The findings may contribute to earlier risk assessment and preventive measures.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2026

This ‘living plastic’ activates and self-destructs on command

A new strategy has created 'living plastics' that self-destruct on command, using activatable microbes to break down material within a week. The breakthrough could lead to the development of triggerable spores in water to tackle plastic pollution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateApr 30, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Western US wildfires have gotten less frequent, though larger

A new study reveals that wildfires in the Western US have decreased by 28% over the past three decades, with fires starting from natural causes declining more than those caused by humans. The findings suggest that higher population densities lead to fewer fires, while adding people to less populated areas makes blazes more common.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalEarth's Future·DateApr 30, 2026

Atomic lattice-matched hexagonal WO3/TiO2 S-heterojunction enables high-efficiency selective glycerol-to-DHA photoelectrocatalysis

Researchers developed a lattice-matching strategy to address charge transfer efficiency and selectivity issues in traditional photoelectrocatalytic systems. The resulting composite photoanodes achieve high DHA selectivity and glycerol conversion rates, demonstrating strong potential for industrial application.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateApr 30, 2026
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New study finds task switching raises risk in transplant surgeries

A new study from Virginia Tech found that task switching in transplant surgeries increases one-year mortality rates by 14.8 percent, highlighting the need for efficient scheduling and workflow changes to minimize risks. The research also suggests that recovery time and surgeon experience level can mitigate these effects.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 30, 2026

Defect-engineered Pt/Nb2O5 for efficient radical-mediated benzimidazole synthesis and H2 evolution

A new photocatalytic system with enhanced activity for benzimidazole synthesis and H2 production has been developed. The defect-engineered Pt/Nb2O5-VO photocatalyst promotes dehydrogenation of ethanol to form radicals, which then facilitate the selective synthesis of desired products.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateApr 30, 2026

New tool helps to identify people at highest risk of obesity-related diseases

A new tool can predict an individual's risk of developing 18 obesity-related diseases, identifying those at highest risk for earlier intervention. The OBSCORE model uses 20 commonly collected health measures to provide a more accurate and personalized way to identify individuals at higher risk.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2026
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Researchers discover a new link between brain sugar levels and myelin development

Researchers at CUNY ASRC have uncovered a metabolic switch that influences the formation of myelinating cells, helping shape brain development. The study reveals that glucose levels act as a signal directing behavior during development and can be harnessed to protect myelin in the developing brain and promote repair in disease states.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2026

Predicting genetic risk for Type 1 diabetes just got more accurate thanks to UC San Diego study

The study demonstrates that the T1GRS tool can identify children and adults at high risk for Type 1 diabetes earlier than current methods, enabling preventive measures before the disease develops. The researchers grouped individuals into four sub-types based on genetic features, each with unique clinical profiles and outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2026

UN Women report finds online violence and deepfakes drive women from public life

A new UN Women report reveals that online violence and deepfakes are pushing women out of public life, with alarming rates of mental health diagnoses and self-censorship. The study also found that law enforcement is often failing to provide justice for survivors, highlighting the need for effective education and training.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·TypeSurvey·DateApr 30, 2026

Universal model provides design standards for efficient and durable perovskite solar cells

A new universal model explains and guides energy level alignment in perovskite solar cell interfaces using hole-collecting monolayers, enabling optimized interfacial energy levels and reduced development time. The study provides practical guidance for designing materials with improved performance for emerging solar technologies.

SourceChiba University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2026

Carbene bridging Ag-Cu sites for enhanced *CO pooling and C-C coupling in CO2 reduction

A new catalyst developed by Soochow University researchers exhibits a remarkable C2+ Faradaic efficiency of 80.3%, outperforming other Cu-based catalysts. The introduction of carbene species enhances the tandem synergy, increasing surface coverage of CO intermediates and facilitating C-C coupling reactions.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateApr 30, 2026
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Does vaping help people quit smoking? Maybe.

Research suggests that vaping is associated with increased odds of quitting smoking, but this relationship may not be true for everyone. Daily vape use was a stronger predictor of successful cessation than intermittent or no use.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 30, 2026

Study identifies a key mechanism in the degeneration of motor neurons in ALS

A team of researchers has identified a key mechanism in the degeneration of motor neurons in ALS, revealing that chaperone-mediated autophagy is significantly reduced in patients. This finding suggests that this cellular system may be a potential therapeutic target to slow disease progression.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2026

FAU study reveals how camels ‘beat the heat’ at the cellular level

Researchers found that camels have a more flexible and coordinated response to heat stress, allowing them to maintain stability even at higher temperatures. In contrast, human cells tend to respond in a more rigid way, making them less adaptable under heat stress.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalBMC Genomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2026

Scientists uncover new ‘in-between’ materials for solar fuels and batteries

Researchers identify previously unknown 'in-between' materials that can be used to design better solar fuels, batteries, and catalysis materials. The study reveals a series of hidden intermediate stages during heating, opening up new opportunities for material discovery and development.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2026
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Seals get their hearts racing to detox after foraging trips at sea

A new study found that fur seals' heart rate peaks six to eight hours after returning to land, indicating a delayed recovery from the physiological costs of foraging at sea. This suggests that seals use their time onshore to actively recover and replenish oxygen stores.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2026

Perceptions of cultural foreignness may lead to job discrimination

Research suggests that cultural foreignness stereotypes can lead to job discrimination against Asian, Arab and Latino American applicants. In experiments, participants rated these groups as less hirable than Black American candidates with similar resumes.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateApr 30, 2026

Epilepsy "brain blips" revealed by high-definition probes

Researchers discovered that interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) occur in a predictable pattern, unfolding sequentially in individual neurons. Nearly 80% of IED-involving neurons are also involved in language and perception, suggesting the brain blips can derail cognition.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 30, 2026

UT MD Anderson appoints Kim Slusser as chief nurse executive

Kim Slusser, Ph.D., R.N., is appointed as the institution’s inaugural chief nurse executive, overseeing over 5,400 nurses. She will champion innovation and compassion to deliver patient-centered care and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateApr 29, 2026
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Study assesses impacts of drones on whale sharks

A new study published in Ecosphere found that drones do not disturb whale sharks when flown directly above them. Researchers attached motion-sensing tags to 13 whale sharks and compared their behavior with periods where no drone was flying overhead, revealing no evidence of disturbance.

SourceMurdoch University·JournalEcosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2026

Embryos can tolerate disruption of cell division at certain stages of development

Embryos can tolerate disruption of cell division at certain stages of development, particularly during the gastrula phase where a mechanism called the spindle assembly checkpoint helps them withstand misaligned chromosomes. Disruptions during other stages, such as the pre-gastrula period, are more deadly and lead to defects.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2026

Electrically switchable continuous phase liquid crystal Fresnel zone plate

Researchers have developed an electrically switchable continuous phase liquid crystal Fresnel zone plate, enabling efficient focus control for augmented reality headsets, compact cameras, and adaptive optical instruments. The device achieves a 80% increase in focal intensity compared to traditional binary Fresnel lenses.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateApr 29, 2026

Climate change a global threat to brain health, stroke experts say

Climate change is linked to an increased risk of strokes and mortality, particularly from extreme heat. The World Stroke Organization emphasizes the need for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate this threat. Experts recommend promoting clean energy, plant-rich diets, and active transport to reduce stroke risk.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalInternational Journal of Stroke·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 29, 2026
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

A USC team is targeting the spinal cord to solve paralysis’ most overlooked problem

A USC team has created a neuroprosthetic device that can restore coordinated bladder control in small animal models, proof of concept for a future treatment that could transform lives after spinal cord injuries. The device targets the dorsolateral funiculus region of the spinal cord to mimic the natural signals that trigger the need to...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateApr 29, 2026

Research gaps and regional disparities revealed in global Lassa virus research landscape

A comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 55 years of Lassa virus research has uncovered significant disparities in scientific output between high-income and endemic countries. The study highlights a persistent shortage of studies addressing environmental factors influencing viral spread, underscoring the need for a strategic shift towa...

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalScience in One Health·TypeNews article·DateApr 29, 2026

Tunnel workers report being exposed to significant silica dust risks: research survey

A national survey of Australian tunnel construction workers found significant silica dust exposure risks, with many reporting barriers to effective dust control measures. The study calls for stronger regulatory enforcement and oversight to prevent preventable disease in the high-risk industry.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateApr 29, 2026

An app that improves decision-making: Duke-NUS study shows myKIDNEY helps patients make better informed choices

A Duke-NUS study shows that pairing a web-based decision-aid with counselling significantly shifts patients' decisions towards conservative management, which focuses on symptom relief and quality of life. The myKIDNEY app reduced patients' decisional conflict and raised awareness of conservative management as an accepted alternative to...

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalKidney International Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 29, 2026
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Sedatives in pregnancy not linked to psychiatric disorders in children

A large South Korean study found no increased risk of psychiatric or neurodevelopmental disorders in children whose mothers used sedative drugs during pregnancy. The study, published by the BMJ Group, tracked nearly 3.8 million children and analyzed data from the National Health Information Database.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateApr 29, 2026
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Study confirms effectiveness of medicinal plant against SARS-CoV-2 virus

A study published in Scientific Reports confirms the anti-viral properties of galloylquinic acids extracted from Copaifera lucens leaves, inhibiting viral entry and replication. The substance's multi-target mechanism reduces the likelihood of resistance developing, making it a promising therapeutic candidate against COVID-19.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 29, 2026

Enabling privacy-preserving AI training on everyday devices

Researchers at MIT developed a technique to overcome memory constraints and communication bottlenecks in federated learning, enabling faster and more accurate AI model training. The new framework, FTTE, uses a subset of model parameters and an asynchronous approach to reduce lag time and improve training performance.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 29, 2026
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New study reveals how next-generation biochar can transform pollution cleanup and circular sustainability

Emerging microwave-based techniques significantly enhance biochar's ability to remove contaminants from water and soil while improving energy efficiency. Biochar has gained attention as a sustainable solution for managing agricultural residues, food waste, and other organic by-products.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 29, 2026

Portable TB test matches lab accuracy in just minutes

A new portable device can deliver accurate test results for tuberculosis (TB) in less than half an hour, matching lab accuracy. The MiniDock MTB uses similar technology to COVID-19 tests and detects DNA of mycobacterium tuberculosis, enabling rapid diagnosis and treatment

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 29, 2026