Science News for May 12, 2026

Scientists reconstruct historical climate trends from diaries

Rapid tests linked to better management of chronic diseases

A perspective paper looks at digital transportation’s basic theories

GPS data reveals why pedestrians in Phnom Penh rarely walk the shortest route

EASO issues new update of its ‘living’ guidance for appropriate use of pharmacotherapy in obesity management

No refrigeration needed for killer disease vaccine

Predicting typhoon intensity using ocean surface temperatures

From Chinese medicine to computing: Duke-NUS broadens access to medicine

Researchers at Saitama University develop microalgae that photosynthetically produce and secrete biofuel precursors

The shoal remembers: How signs of a collective memory shape a predator-prey arms race

Researchers found that bird predators adjust their attacks to avoid triggering strong collective waves from sulphur mollies, but also exploit weak points in the group's defense. The fish, in turn, seem to 'remember' previous predator attacks, leading to stronger responses when attacked again.

Gravitational wave detectors can now ‘auto-tune’ their signals

Researchers from the LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA Collaboration demonstrate how Astro Calibration technique improves signal processing by leveraging astrophysical models and comparison to predicted signals. This enhances detection of cosmic phenomena like black hole mergers, refining estimates of masses, spins, distance, and location.

Combined exercise and HIIT linked to significant falls in blood pressure over 24 H

Gut problems in people with a genetic disorder are not cause by structural problems with the gullet, as previously assumed

Cannabis and tobacco co-use increases psychosis chances in high-risk cohorts: Study

Heavy caring responsibilities may hasten cognitive decline

Autism spectrum disorder in a child may be linked to mother’s job

PSU-led team develops promising drug candidate for control, elimination of malaria

FAMU-FSU College of Engineering researchers develop AI tool to predict E. coli contamination in waterways

Harm from missing incidents among people with dementia

UN Virtual Worlds Day calls for AI and emerging tech to support better city and community life

Lifts capacity/safety signs for maximum number of people permitted based on weight often out of date

People who have lost weight using tirzepatide are seven times more likely to maintain their weight loss if they continue on the maximum dose compared to those who stop treatment

Study shows that most weight loss achieved using injectable obesity drugs can be maintained by switching to daily oral orforglipron (ATTAIN-MAINTAIN)

Immune protein a possible target to slow Parkinson’s progression

Mayo Clinic announces upcoming leadership transition, recognizes transformational leadership of Dr. Gianrico Farrugia

Design tweaks promote responsible AI use for environmental protection, research shows

Rural-urban divide: Neighborhood conditions shape teen smoking

First observation of the moment lithium batteries breakdown... Key clue to extending EV range​

Sleep habits may raise dementia risk — and researchers are closer to understanding how

Study shows use of obesity drugs alongside behavioral intervention is associated with reduced “food noise”

New reactor design produces renewable methane from carbon dioxide

Smarter sensors save time and energy

Scientists dispute hypothesis that climate change will unleash massive ag pest populations

Birds can suffer serious harm from heatwaves

Body weight affects your gut microbiota

The fog is alive!

AI’s eyes to help with component inspections

Depression dampens anticipation, not enjoyment

$9M USD for safer treatment of psychiatric and cognitive symptoms in Parkinson’s disease

Boise State University researchers develop breakthrough technology to detect ‘forever chemicals’ faster, cheaper, and on-site

NHS surgery backlogs can’t be fixed by hiring alone study warns

Toloo Taghian awarded $3.2M to develop gene therapy for a rare genetic disease

No more “burning and exploding batteries”? DGIST addresses low-temperature performance and fire risks

Successfully treated AML patients may hold the key to new CAR T cell therapy

UC San Diego researchers launch free ‘digital twin’ for end-to-end testing of applications over wireless networks

Human childbirth is not uniquely difficult among mammals

Harshly parented children show poorer development of stress regulation

New study eavesdrops on the secret lives of birds

Icing injuries may slow recovery and prolong pain, study finds

A new way to spot signs of dark matter

Pitt Team receives $9M grant for Parkinson’s research

UMass Chan scientist Marcus Ruscetti receives 2026 Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize

Consumers willing to pay more for lobster harvested with ropeless technology, UMaine study finds

USC researchers launch study of the most complex lab-grown kidney structures

Shining a light on historical featherwork art

New position statement highlights the growing role of genicular artery embolization for knee osteoarthritis

AI models comb patient data to predict cardiac-arrest risk

UC San Diego receives $5 million renewal for prestigious faculty recruitment and training program

Putting neural networks to work in nonlinear optics

Frequent exposure to media on real-world gun violence is linked to mental health risks

New genomic approaches uncover surprising cellular dynamics of the aging brain

Adams exploring psychosocial adaptation in survivors of violently acquired spinal cord injury

How immune-related adverse events differ in elderly gastrointestinal vs. lung cancer patients

How to build a discovery machine

AI-powered handheld microscope aims to spot cancer earlier

WashU expert: Scaling up the circular economy

Pathak studying 5G-native batteryless tags for tracking & communication

Capital Medical University study spots early signal to protect vision during brain tumor surgery

Pollution from aircraft

Aging immune systems show reduced ability to clear tuberculosis during treatment

Fall prevention and delirium screening are the most effective interventions for improving surgical outcomes in older adults

Does agriculture and climate affect feeding activities of soil animals?

Dengue viral infection and associated liver disease

"Breaking the limits of OLED: Postech achieves low-votage freely color tunable ultra-pure laser emission"

Enjoyment of exercise matters – people with overweight find physical activity less pleasurable

AI content moderation takes a lesson from economics #ASA190

Study: 11 million American children’s well being threatened by criminally charged family members

Yao to receive NSF CAREER Award

Aston University and STFC Hartree Center announce strategic partnership to advance neuromorphic computing in the UK

Tiny worms, with help from Brown University researchers, may hold key to treating rare childhood disease

BGI Genomics joins HGP2 rare disease alliance to close rare disease care gap in Asia-Pacific

Global experts establish new name for PCOS to reflect multisystem disease

UT Arlington study links estrogen loss to heart risk

From water and air to h2O2: How molecular design unlocks efficient photocatalysis

Chang studying predictive resilient chain intelligence

First-in-human trial demonstrates promise of implantable cytokine factories for ovarian cancer

UC Irvine team identifies where renewable hydrogen delivers the greatest social benefit

Powerful shrinking technique could enable devices that compute with light

Wei developing website for Veterans Foundation

Psychological factors sustaining gastric cancer screening during the COVID-19 pandemic

No-till, new rules: Soil microbes thrive in conservation farming

Circadian rhythms in cardiovascular disease: a new perspective on inter-organ crosstalk

UMCG studies show: Centuries-old medicine benefits heart failure patients

Toward smart light sources

Cracks in the root: How wheat absorbs clay minerals

Atoms vibrate on circular paths – with an unexpected twist

Plants adapt their roots to climate stress

Comprehensive scoping review brings together international examples of participatory practices that support collaborative landscape planning and governance

Hypertension associated with the risk of extrahepatic cancers in the metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease population

For most US drivers, EVs offer emissions benefits and cost savings

Scientists discover surprising new way to control light

Customizable sub-nanometer vertical-step grayscale lithography

‘News will find me’ mindset makes people trust algorithms and online networks

Invasion, restoration, and the surprising season for soil life

Beyond human error or organizational culture: Systemic skill management in organizations and the Fukuchiyama-line derailment accident

Researchers uncover role of RBPMS in AML and propose therapy

The timing of trauma leaves a lasting mark on the brain and behavior

Color differences in aspirated fluids as a simple diagnostic indicator of PEG tube-related gastric outlet obstruction

Machines with the ability to ‘feel’ currently in development as we enter next frontier of AI

3D microscopy: Laser rotates samples contact-free

Breaking the scale barrier: New toolkit enables mass-production of high-entropy cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries

Researchers have developed a microfluidic spray drying technology to rapidly synthesize high-phase-purity HE-NVPF cathode materials, outperforming traditional batch methods. The new method enables scalable energy storage solutions with ultra-fast charging speeds and high energy density.

Firearm storage in households with children

A survey study found that over 1 in 5 adult firearm owners living with children under 18 years store at least one loaded gun in an unlocked location, posing a significant risk to child safety. More effective strategies are needed to motivate parents to secure their firearms and prevent accidents.

Millions left behind as digital inclusion funding fails to reach those who need it most

A new study from the University of Surrey highlights the failure of major actors to work together as a major barrier to digital inclusion. Despite improvement in access to mobile networks and digital skills, whole communities remain excluded from education, finance, and basic services due to fragmentation of effort.

Single radioactive cloud caused Fukushima particle contamination

A new study reveals that a single gust of wind transported cesium-rich microparticles (CsMPs) across Fukushima Prefecture, contaminating the area with high levels of radioactivity. The particles' uneven distribution reflects weather conditions and pose an additional environmental and health risk.

Shedding light on receptor selectivity: “one of the most comprehensive projects in my entire scientific career”

The study identified amino acids crucial for ligand selectivity in two groups of receptors, β-adrenergic and D1-like dopamine receptors. By modifying these amino acids, the researchers made each receptor prefer its native ligand. The findings suggest that regions outside of the primary binding site also play a role in selectivity.

From interface retreat to interface anchoring: A paradigm shift in solar thermal energy storage

Stage IV breast cancer incidence and survival, 2010-2021

The study found that stage IV breast cancer incidence increased across ages and sexes, while overall survival improved despite the increase. Researchers highlight the need for further investigation into factors contributing to the rise in incidence, including potential changes in breast cancer screening and other conditions.

Ivermectin prescriptions more than doubled after a celebrity endorsed it as a cancer treatment on a high-profile podcast

Prescriptions for ivermectin and benzimidazole increased significantly following a high-profile podcast endorsement, with the highest rates among men, White patients, and those in the US South. The study raises concerns about celebrity endorsements influencing people to turn to unproven treatments.

Orbital effect induced finite-momentum pairing and Josephson vortex lattice melting in layered Ising superconductors

A recent study reveals how orbital effects shape the high-field phase diagram of Ising superconductors, providing a theoretical basis for understanding vortex phase transitions at high magnetic fields. The research also demonstrates that finite-momentum pairing configurations can form under in-plane magnetic fields, leading to a new ty...

Penn research into Friedreich’s ataxia reveals how DNA folding can silence a key gene

A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has uncovered a fundamental rule governing gene arrangement inside the cell nucleus. By adjusting the balance between gene activity and DNA folding, they can partially restore expression of a key gene involved in Friedreich's ataxia, a neurodegenerative disorder.

Sustainable hydrogen production with self-activating catalysts

Simple home test predicts mobility decline in older adults

A study published in JMIR Aging predicts early mobility decline in healthy adults aged 45 using a set of home-based measurements and AI. The researchers identified six essential factors, including age, muscle power, and diet, that accurately predict future mobility struggles.

Better decision-making, better stress management: Study explains link between resilience and decision-making behavior

A new study finds that individuals with higher resilience tend to place greater weight on positive aspects in cost-benefit decisions, a process mediated by brain activity. This regulated handling of negative information is linked to increased acceptance and improved psychological resilience.

Ivermectin-benzimidazole prescribing following celebrity endorsement

A recent study found that ivermectin-benzimidazole prescribing increased rapidly following a celebrity endorsement in January 2025. This trend was particularly concerning among patients with cancer who may delay conventional treatments for unproven therapies, potentially worsening their disease progression.

Bird collisions with wind turbines can be reduced with warning colors

Researchers have developed a new approach to reducing bird collisions with wind turbines by using warning signals found in nature, such as yellow, red, and black colors. The study found that these colors combined with rotating motion were more frightening to birds than existing patterns used on wind turbines.

Climate change: How oxygen deficiency changes metabolic processes in the ocean

A new study reveals how sulfur compounds are metabolized under oxygen-deficient conditions, with microorganisms like Flavobacteria playing a key role. Taurine, an organic sulfur compound found in red meat and energy drinks, is assimilated only in low-oxygen waters.

Scientists uncover how mid-latitude westerlies contribute moisture to Asian water towers

Researchers identify a 'vertical conveyor' mechanism that transports moisture from the mid-latitudes to the Asian Water Towers through a process of nocturnal decoupling. This process integrates up to 30% of westerlies-advected moisture into the local cycle without precipitation, sustaining near-surface moisture accumulation.

Why do brown bats stop feeding during fireworks? #ASA190

Researchers studied the impact of Capitola, California's annual firework show on local brown bat populations, finding that the noise and lights disrupted their feeding patterns. The study revealed a measurable effect on bats' ability to hunt and catch prey during the display.

Journal of Participatory Medicine invites submissions for a new article type: Participatory education and methods

Korea University’s College of Medicine has been simultaneously selected for the undergraduate and graduate programs of the 2026 Convergence Physician-Scientist Training Project

Insilico Medicine and Ribo enter strategic collaboration agreement: Leveraging AI platform and automated lab for end-to-end empowerment of RNA interference and oligonucleotide therapeutics development

60% of U.S. teens have tried AI chatbots, 11.4% use them almost daily

Program announced for NUTRITION 2026 to be held July 25–28

Anglers and scientists partner to study British Columbia’s salmon food chain

A financing model for permanent carbon removal

Bioenergy constraints in the tropics

DeepAFM: A deep learning method to decode protein motion

SLEEP 2026 marks 40 years of advancing the sleep field at annual meeting in Baltimore

Forest restoration and spotted owl conservation can work together, study finds

‘Mobile’ DNA elements may have expanded gene regulatory networks in brain development

Insulin resistance during pregnancy linked to higher abdominal fat in girls

Research found that girls born to mothers with higher insulin resistance during pregnancy are more likely to have more abdominal fat at age 7. Maternal insulin resistance was not associated with body fat in boys, suggesting girls may be more susceptible to the mother's insulin resistance during late pregnancy.

FDA approves early warning system for sepsis

The FDA has approved an AI-based early warning system for sepsis, developed by Johns Hopkins University researchers, which detects the condition hours faster than doctors and has reduced deaths by nearly 20%. The system, known as Targeted Real-Time Early Warning System, integrates electronic health records with advanced clinical AI to ...

Brain histamine map connects genes to brain function and mental health

A new study has mapped the histamine system in the brain, revealing its role in regulating emotions, stress, and decision-making. The findings provide a framework for understanding how histamine contributes to brain function and could point towards new treatment strategies for histamine-related conditions.

One drug, two cleanup crews: A built-in backup for targeted protein degradation

Researchers discovered a small molecule that degrades SMARCA2/4 by engaging two distinct E3 ligase systems, creating a molecular backup for targeted protein degradation. This dual-engagement effectively increases the robustness of cancer therapies by making it harder for cells to escape treatment.

‘Nature’s algorithm’ found in Chinese money plants

A team of scientists has found a naturally occurring Voronoi pattern in the Chinese money plant, which helps explain how plants create complex patterns on their leaves. This discovery sheds light on how plants solve problems in nature and may provide new insights into the math underlying evolution and development.

Human islet function, diabetes risk defined by heterogeneous endocrine cell composition

A comprehensive study analyzed human pancreatic islet cells from 299 nondiabetic donors, revealing the impact of endocrine cell composition on islet function and diabetes risk. The study found that the presence of delta cells, which secrete somatostatin, is associated with poorer insulin secretion.

Antibody spurs nerve fiber regrowth following spinal cord injury

A novel antibody, NG101, accelerates the regeneration of damaged spinal cord tissue by neutralizing a protein that blocks nerve fiber growth. This therapy enables new nerve fibers to form functional connections, allowing patients to become more independent and potentially recover arm and hand function.

Personalized vaccine shows promise against aggressive brain cancer

A personalized vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective in treating glioblastoma, a fast-growing brain cancer. The vaccine elicited robust and broad immune responses that appeared to increase recurrence-free survival in patients after surgery.

Researchers measure energy below a zeptojoule–enough for a red blood cell to move a nanometer

Scientists have successfully measured incredibly small amounts of energy using a novel calorimeter technique, achieving a world-first in sensitivity. The breakthrough could pave the way for counting individual photons and detecting elusive dark-matter axions in space.

Improving the reliability of circuits for quantum computers

Researchers from MIT developed a technique to detect and precisely measure second-order harmonic corrections in superconducting quantum circuits. This analysis revealed the source of these distortions, which can cause quantum circuits to perform differently than expected.

People who score higher on autistic traits may be more likely to label their feelings as a way of coping with uncertainty

Research at Nagoya University suggests that individuals with higher autistic traits use labeling as a way to cope with uncertainty, reducing emotional stress. The study found a link between autistic traits and lower anxiety levels when people are able to put their feelings into words.

Gene-edited stem cell transplant shows promise for aggressive blood cancers

Researchers at WashU Medicine conducted a clinical trial showing that genetically engineered donor stem cells can prevent toxic side effects and improve treatment options for patients with AML and MDS. The study found that removing the CD33 protein from donor stem cells helped target cancer cells while leaving healthy cells untouched.

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome: New name to improve diagnosis and care of condition affecting 170 million women worldwide

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) is a complex hormonal disorder impacting 1 in 8 women globally, affecting weight, metabolism, mental health, skin, and the reproductive system. The name change aims to improve diagnosis and care for this previously misunderstood condition.

BIPM, RIKEN and Shimadzu launch collaboration to explore the role of transportable optical frequency standards

The collaboration aims to explore the role of transportable optical frequency standards in international time and frequency metrology. Transportable OFS are considered a promising approach to support comparisons of independent realizations of the second, with the goal of achieving consistent contributions to Coordinated Universal Time.

Intestinal stem cells can fight back against salmonella scientists discover

Researchers identified a defense mechanism in intestinal stem cells that actively responds to Salmonella infection, differentiating into antimicrobial Paneth cells to limit bacterial persistence. The study suggests that stem cell differentiation is part of an intrinsic protective program preserving intestinal function during infection.

Support local people to protect world’s nature, new report urges, as deadline for global conservation target looms

A new report by University of Cambridge researchers highlights the human context of conservation efforts, finding that protecting 30% of the world's land and seas by 2030 will impact nearly half of the global population. The team suggests substantial investment and local involvement are crucial for successful implementation.

New meta-analysis finds no increased risk to children’s brain development from fathers’ use of valproate

A comprehensive review of existing research shows no evidence that men's use of valproate increases the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. The analysis combines data from large population-based studies in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Taiwan.

Loss of the X chromosome is associated with reduced chance of natural pregnancy

A study by Osaka Metropolitan University found that women with a higher proportion of LOX cells in their white blood cells had a lower likelihood of achieving natural pregnancy. The researchers suggest combining AMH analysis with LOX measurement may improve prediction of natural conception.

Metabolism-inspired hydrogels replicate heartbeat-like motion and photosynthesis

Researchers design polymer networks to replicate dynamic behaviors inspired by biological systems. Self-oscillating gels exhibit rhythmic motion similar to a beating heart, while artificial photosynthetic gels convert light into chemical energy.

Smart AI gives electric vehicle batteries 23 per cent longer life – without increasing the charging time

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed an AI method that adapts fast charging to the health of the battery, increasing its lifespan by almost 23%. The new strategy uses reinforcement learning and takes into account the battery's chemistry and state of health.

A sticky solution to a pesky agricultural problem

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a water-based pesticide formulation that outperforms conventional methods in delivering agricultural pesticides. The new solution uses nanostructured cellulose nanocrystals to stabilize pesticide droplets without chemicals or solvents.

KRICT demonstrates direct CO2-to-gasoline and naphtha production at 50 kg per day

A Korean research team has successfully developed a technology that converts carbon dioxide (CO₂) into liquid hydrocarbons such as gasoline and naphtha. The direct CO2-to-gasoline and naphtha production achieves pilot-scale production of 50 kg per day, overcoming conventional intermediate steps.

1 in 3 women unaware surgery can fix pelvic prolapse, survey finds

Pelvic organ prolapse affects up to half of all women, causing incontinence and chronic pain. A new survey reveals one in three women suffer in silence due to common misconceptions about the condition.

Can volunteers replace professional language teachers in Japan?

A study by Associate Professor Bettina Gildenhard explores the tensions between personal initiatives, national language policies, and professionalism in volunteer-led Japanese language classes. The research highlights the need for a balanced approach, increasing investment in professional language educators while supporting volunteer i...

New tectonic plate boundary could be forming in Zambia, scientists say

Researchers analyze helium isotope readings from geothermal springs in Zambia's Kafue Rift to confirm the presence of a weakness in the Earth's crust that has broken through to reach the mantle. The discovery could have significant economic implications for geothermal energy and potentially influence the future shape of Africa.