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Science News for June 2, 2026


We do not have a decider in our brain

Indiana University Professor Tom James proposes a new explanation for decision-making, suggesting that the brain's sensory, sensorimotor, and motor processes work together to select actions, rather than a central 'decision-making' process. This approach offers a more parsimonious alternative to traditional theories.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 2, 2026

International research team develops AI tool to simplify and scale complete genome assembly, supporting advances in diagnostics and precision medicine

A new AI tool, HERRO, corrects errors in nanopore sequencing reads to produce high-quality complete genome assemblies. This innovation enables researchers to build more accurate and complete genome maps with a simpler workflow, unlocking potential for precision medicine advancements.

Dual interlocked mediators enable single‑ion‑conducting quasi‑solid‑state electrolytes for ultrafast‑charging long‑life sodium metal batteries

Researchers have developed a novel Sn-FB QSE that achieves near-unity Na+ transference number alongside high conductivity, surpassing conventional systems. The dual-mediator architecture regulates bulk ion transport and bilateral interface chemistry, enabling rapid Na+ diffusion and suppressing electrolyte degradation.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJun 2, 2026

Gary Ulaner, MD, Ph.D., elected president-elect of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging

Gary Ulaner, a renowned nuclear medicine expert, has been elected president-elect of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI). He aims to advance SNMMI's Mars Shot initiative, expand educational activities for professionals, and increase funding for training new radiochemistry and physics specialists.

The development of mirror-image pain

A study published in Communications Biology found that lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) exacerbates chronic pain and drives mirror-image pain after a stroke. The researchers used imaging mass spectrometry to visualize LPA and other molecules, revealing a sequential pathological process that leads to bilateral pain.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Ötzi and his microbiome: a 5,300-year-old relationship

Researchers at Eurac Research have discovered the microbial community associated with Ötzi, a 5,300-year-old Copper Age human. The study found that Ötzi's gut flora closely resembles early human populations, and cold-adapted yeasts have persisted on his body for thousands of years, holding potential for industrial applications.

SourceEurac Research·JournalMicrobiome·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

The right heat makes biochar a better helper for food waste composting

A new study published in Biochar shows that the temperature used to produce biochar plays a decisive role in controlling nitrogen losses during food waste digestate composting. Hardwood biochar made at 400 °C reduced total nitrogen loss by 46.3% compared with composting without biochar, outperforming biochars made at 300 °C and 800 °C.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Atomic reshuffle paves way for record-breaking catalysts for hydrogen production

Scientists at the University of Nottingham created nanoscale particles with a few dozen platinum and nickel atoms, leading to efficient hydrogen evolution. The unique dynamic behavior of the metals allows them to cooperate in water splitting, making this material one of the most effective catalysts for hydrogen production.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Research project provides new estimates of greater amberjack abundance in U.S. South Atlantic, Gulf of America

A multi-year research project has provided new insight into greater amberjack abundance in the U.S. South Atlantic and Gulf of America, with estimates suggesting a consistent scale with recent assessments. The study also investigated movement patterns, migration routes, and connectivity using advanced technologies.

SourceUniversity of South Alabama·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 2, 2026

Indonesia’s air quality got worse after China banned plastic waste imports

A new study by Ellen Considine and Rachel Nethery shows that Indonesia's air pollution increased in 2018 and 2019 due to the diversion of plastic waste from China, which was previously a major import source. The team used satellite data to evaluate changes in fine particulate matter at 356 open dump sites in Indonesia.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of the Royal Statistical Society Series C (Applied Statistics)·DateJun 2, 2026

PET imaging reveals synaptic loss in multiple sclerosis across preclinical and human studies

A new PET imaging approach measures synaptic density in the spinal cord, allowing physicians to monitor disease progression and evaluate treatment effectiveness. This technique detects widespread reductions in synaptic connections across the brain and spinal cord in patients with multiple sclerosis.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 2, 2026

New propulsion system could make tiny satellites both fast and fuel-efficient

MIT engineers have developed a new propulsion system that integrates chemical and electrical thrusters, allowing small satellites to perform both fast maneuvers and precise adjustments. The system uses a special propellant called ASCENT, which powers both types of thrusters, enabling smaller and more flexible spacecraft.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Propulsion and Power·DateJun 2, 2026

Five minutes of prayer reduces pain and anxiety in primary care patients, randomized trial finds

A five-minute session of proximal intercessory prayer significantly reduced pain and anxiety in primary care patients compared to a music control group. The study suggests that in-person intercessory prayer may offer a practical complement to conventional care for underserved populations.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 2, 2026

SwRI’s Osborne named ASME Fellow

Dustin T. Osborne, a SwRI staff engineer, was elected ASME Fellow for his significant contributions to locomotive emissions measurement and large-bore engine performance evaluations. He has led various testing campaigns and published numerous papers on alternative fuels and emissions control technologies.

MUSC researchers develop stem cell therapy that shows promise in one day reversing Type 1 diabetes

A new stem cell therapy has been developed by MUSC researchers, which shows promise in reversing Type 1 diabetes in a mouse model. The therapy uses mesenchymal stem/stromal cells genetically modified to produce alpha-1 antitrypsin, shielding surviving insulin-producing cells and stopping the overactive immune response.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJun 2, 2026

Drug enhances muscle repair during GLP-1 weight-loss treatment in mice

Researchers found that a compound already in clinical trials for age-related muscle loss may mitigate the negative effects of GLP-1 on muscle health. In young adult mice treated with semaglutide, PGDHi enhanced muscle regeneration and recovery after injury, restoring strength without undermining fat loss.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Sharks thrive in hot spots of prey

A recent study found that Caribbean reef sharks prefer locations with dense prey populations, making food abundance an essential factor in their habitat choice. The research suggests that prey conservation should be considered alongside fishing bans to support shark conservation.

SourceFlorida International University·JournalAnimal Conservation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 2, 2026

Study links childhood trauma and simultaneous substance use to higher rates of depression in college students

A study from Texas A&M University found a strong link between childhood trauma and depressive symptoms among college students. The study revealed that using multiple substances, particularly cannabis and stimulants, increases health risks and makes substance use disorders harder to treat.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health and Addiction·TypeSurvey·DateJun 2, 2026

AI enables the design of new molecules that selectively target specific cells

Researchers at IRB Barcelona used AI to design new chemical entities that selectively target specific cell types, demonstrating superior activity compared to conventional screening strategies. The methodology, called phenotypic discovery, uses observable responses in cells rather than a specific molecular target.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateJun 2, 2026

Researchers advance first-of-its-kind AI tool for translating life-saving weather warnings across the US

A new AI-powered translation program developed by the National Weather Service (NWS) translates weather forecasts into multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Samoan, and French. The program aims to provide life-saving information to over 68 million US residents who do not speak English at home.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalArtificial Intelligence for the Earth Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 2, 2026

CPRIT awards newly integrated UT San Antonio to further its mission to combat cancers across South Texas

The University of Texas at San Antonio has received significant funding from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas to develop innovative cancer research technologies and treatments. The institution will focus on pressing cancers such as Ewing sarcoma, obesity-related endometrial cancer risk, and AI in clinical oncology.

When online content exerts an irresistible pull

A recent study found that individuals with pathological internet use exhibit a strong tendency to approach internet-related stimuli, indicating automatic and unconscious processes play a major role in usage behavior. This insight could help identify risk groups and inform therapy strategies.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Budget-friendly lab-grown steak with realistic texture cooked up

Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have created a novel method for cultivating meat using plant-derived cellulose scaffolds. This approach significantly reduces production costs by infusing growth factors directly into the scaffold, allowing for comparable tissue development with lower factor usage.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCurrent Research in Food Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Tiny pheromones deciphered

Scientists at the University of Groningen have successfully elucidated the exact composition of tiny pheromones produced by the Trichogramma turkestanica, a type of parasitoid wasp. The team used advanced techniques to separate and analyze the volatiles, ultimately synthesizing the pheromone and revealing its structure.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Predicting the financial strain of cancer

Researchers developed a personalized risk prediction model to identify cancer patients who may struggle with treatment costs, medical debt, and anxiety. The model uses patient information to estimate the likelihood of financial toxicity, balancing detection sensitivity with minimizing false alarms.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJNCI Cancer Spectrum·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 2, 2026

A tiny vacuum tube that could outrun today’s transistors – no gate leak, no problem

Researchers developed a cathode-modulated vacuum/air-channel electron tube that eliminates gate leakage current, enabling vacuum tubes to function in integrated circuits. The device operates at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, offering non-saturating output characteristics and potential for high-frequency applications.

New study shows wetlands loss has increased residential flood insurance claim payments by $10 billion

A new study published in Nature Water finds that wetland loss across the US has increased residential flood insurance claim payments by more than $10 billion since 1985. The analysis links changes in upstream wetland area to downstream National Flood Insurance Program claims, highlighting the critical role of wetlands in reducing river...

SourceEnvironmental Defense Fund·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2026

Sunlight-driven coproduction of hydrogen and valuable chemicals achieved with 100% selectivity using dual-functional sites

Researchers developed ultrathin CdS nanosheets decorated with Ru single atoms and S vacancies, enabling record-high performance for ethanol photoreforming. The catalyst achieved a hydrogen evolution rate 81.5 times higher than pristine CdS and 100% selectivity for valuable chemicals.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Flatworms reveal explosive new type of immune cell

Researchers at Stanford University have identified a new type of immune cell called ruptoblasts in flatworms, which can kill surrounding cells through an explosive process called ruptosis. This discovery could hold important insights for modern medicine and may lead to targeted treatments for bacterial infections or tumors.

SourceStanford University·JournalCell·DateJun 2, 2026

Spintronics p-computer ready for scale-up

A Japan-US collaborative team has developed the world's first integrated spintronic probabilistic bit on a silicon chip, paving the way for large-scale spintronic p-computers. The innovation addresses computational problems requiring parallel processing of enormous numbers of possible states.

SourceTohoku University·JournalIEEE Electron Device Letters·DateJun 2, 2026

New fluorescent nanosensor enables rapid, first-of-its-kind detection of key gut health biomarker

Researchers developed a novel fluorescent nanosensor to detect IPA, an emerging biomarker linked to gut health and disease. The sensor offers rapid detection within minutes, distinguishing IPA from closely related metabolites, enabling accurate measurement even in complex biological environments.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateJun 2, 2026

SKKU develops an ultra-stretchable anti-freezing hydrogel electrolyte based on liquid metal

Researchers developed an ultra-stretchable, anti-freezing hydrogel electrolyte using liquid metal particles, enabling flexible energy storage devices to operate reliably in harsh environments. The material maintains stable electrochemical performance even at -20 °C and retains 98% of its performance after 45,000 charge-discharge cycles.

Blood test improves treatment decisions for colon cancer: Dresden study on circulating tumor DNA shows clear benefits

A recent study published in Science Direct found that patients with detectable circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) benefit from chemotherapy, with a three-year relapse-free survival rate of 77 percent. The test can help identify patients who require more targeted treatment, potentially reducing the risk of recurrence.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateJun 2, 2026

The brain, emotions, and the gut. How culture, stress, and social life shape gut health

The latest publication from Wroclaw Medical University reveals that gastrointestinal health is influenced by culture, social relationships, economic status, and individual functioning within society. Chronic stress disrupts communication between the brain and gut, leading to increased symptom severity and reduced quality of life.

SourceWroclaw Medical University·JournalGastroenterology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 2, 2026

Study: Lack of clean drinking water linked to increased food insecurity

A recent study published in Nature Food found that people without access to clean drinking water are more likely to experience food insecurity and food safety threats. The research analyzed survey data from over 124,000 respondents across 121 countries and highlights the urgent need for coordinated global action to address these issues.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Food·TypeSurvey·DateJun 2, 2026

New path to prevent influenza

Researchers have discovered that different flu viruses use distinct strategies to infiltrate cells and found a cellular pathway that blocks virus entry into lung cells. This study provides fundamental insights into how seasonal influenza viruses infect people and illuminates a path for developing better medications.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalThe Journal of Virology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

A strange humming phenomenon

A team of researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology conducted a study on 28 individuals who experience an unexplained buzzing or humming sound. The investigation tested two hypotheses: measuring the sound waves from human-made infrastructure and industry, as well as those produced by nature itself.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPLOS One·TypeSurvey·DateJun 2, 2026

Science and AI-enabled research platforms

The development of AI-enabled research platforms poses a risk of unequal access, potentially excluding scientists without resources or connections. As decisions about platform accessibility are made in the next five years, it will shape the geography of global discovery for generations.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 2, 2026

AI without hallucinations: Binghamton University researchers develop new way to reduce troublesome fake info

Binghamton University researchers have developed a new way to reduce troublesome fake information in AI chatbots, with high accuracy in identifying disease terms and drug names. The protocol harnesses multiple large language models to verify answers through 'voting', increasing confidence in the results.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalSTAR Protocols·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 2, 2026

AI fails classic attention test

AI models struggled to maintain focus on a task, degrading in accuracy as the word list length grew longer. Human performance, however, remained stable even with long lists, suggesting fundamental limitations in AI decision-making abilities.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 2, 2026

Poor sleep in middle-aged women is associated with lower psychological well-being nearly a decade later

A new study found that middle-aged women who experienced poor sleep problems had lower psychological well-being nine years later. The association remained significant even after adjusting for other health and lifestyle factors, suggesting that sleep may play an outsized role in how women feel and function later in life.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·TypeObservational study·DateJun 2, 2026

Addressing anxiety and depression in women

Women experience anxiety and depression at higher rates due to factors such as hormonal imbalances, violence, and discrimination. The authors advocate for evidence-based solutions like group therapy, telehealth, and policy changes to reduce women's stress, including paid maternal leave and financial support.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 2, 2026

Microrobots repair spinal cord

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed biohybrid microrobots that combine living neural progenitor cells with magnetoelectric nanoparticles to guide stem cells to injury sites and stimulate repair. The microrobots demonstrate promising results in animal experiments, including improved nerve cell regeneration and recovery of motor function.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 2, 2026

Engineered gut bacteria therapy emerges as scalable potential alternative to fecal microbiota transplants following clinical trial

Researchers developed a manufacturing platform for producing targeted mixtures of beneficial gut bacteria, demonstrating comparable safety and efficacy with fecal microbiota transplants. The new approach uses defined bacterial strains isolated from donor stool and grown under controlled conditions.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 2, 2026

Screens are rewriting childhood: a new framework says the developing brain integrates experience until age 25, with profound stakes for mental illness

A new framework, criticome, integrates experience until age 25, reframing autism, schizophrenia, depression, and trauma as developmental disorders. The study suggests that screen-saturated childhoods may produce adult dysfunction, highlighting the importance of early experience in brain development.

SourceGenomic Press·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 2, 2026

Biodiversity offsetting shows promise in pollinator conservation

A new study found that biodiversity offset grasslands support twice the number of wild bees compared to existing grasslands, with comparable numbers of hoverfly species. While not perfect replacements, these offsets can provide important resources for pollinators and may be as effective as existing sites in terms of species richness.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 2, 2026