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Science News for May 14, 2026


Future-proofing robotics: Brain-inspired hardware to overcome AI computing bottlenecks

Researchers are developing brain-inspired hardware that integrates memory and computation, enabling robots to process information in parallel with minimal energy use. The new systems mimic the event-driven processing of the human brain, allowing robots to achieve perception, decision-making, and action with human-like efficiency.

SourceJournal Center of Harbin Institute of Technology·JournalSmartBot·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 14, 2026

A*STAR scientists develop new method to reveal how RNA structure influences health and disease

Researchers developed a new method called sm-PORE-cupine to study individual RNA molecules and reveal how their structures influence gene regulation. The technology provides deeper insight into how RNA structure affects cellular function and could help identify new therapeutic targets for diseases such as viral infections.

"Reading the invisible": POSTECH-led team develops AI framework accounting for hidden defects in metal 3D printing

A research team led by POSTECH developed an AI framework that can predict and account for microscopic defects in metal 3D printing, improving the reliability of metal components. The framework achieves a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of just 9.51 MPa, outperforming conventional approaches.

Information security with smart hydrogels: Photo‑patterning and multi‑stimuli responsive structural color

Researchers developed a novel smart hydrogel framework that can store multiple pages of information, revealed under different environmental conditions. The technology uses light-induced crosslinking and anti-opal structural colors to create a highly secure and aesthetically striking platform for information encryption.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMay 14, 2026

AI and supercomputer simulations reveal how a bacterial energy-converting enzyme pumps sodium ions, paving the way for new antibiotics

The study revealed that sodium binding and electron transfer drive a precise dual trigger, pumping sodium ions across the cell membrane. This understanding provides a powerful new framework for designing targeted antibacterial drugs.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

Screening modestly reduces prostate cancer deaths

Screening with a PSA blood test reduces prostate cancer deaths by approximately 2 for every 1,000 men screened. The review found that 500 men would need to be invited to screening to prevent one prostate cancer death.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 14, 2026

Shining light on cell-to-cell communication

A new nanoscopy technique developed at ANU has uncovered hidden networks used for communication between cells. The breakthrough allows researchers to observe how living cells interact with their environment over several days, revealing three-dimensional behaviours that were previously invisible to conventional microscopes.

SourceAustralian National University·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

The Lancet Psychiatry: No clear link between common antidepressant use in pregnancy and autism or ADHD in children, finds most comprehensive study to date

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet Psychiatry found no clear link between common antidepressant use in pregnancy and increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD in children. However, the study suggests that genetic predisposition and other factors may contribute to an increased risk.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

New study reveals best dosage for ADHD medications

A new study has identified the most effective dosages for five commonly used ADHD medications using data from thousands of participants. The research, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, provides a comprehensive view of dosage effects and developed an online tool to help clinicians and patients choose the right dosage.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

Viagra could hold key to halting Peyronie’s disease

A new study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine found that combining phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors with selective oestrogen receptor modulators may slow or stop disease progression when given early. This combination resulted in improved penile curvature and reduced pain during erections compared to standard care.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateMay 14, 2026

Nationwide study finds reduced triptan use for migraine one year after semaglutide initiation for weight loss among women

A nationwide study in Denmark shows a 7% reduction in triptan use for migraine treatment among women taking semaglutide for weight loss, with no significant change observed among men. The study suggests that weight loss and potential direct effects of GLP-1RA treatments may contribute to reduced migraine medication use.

Trial shows rapid weight loss is much more effective than gradual weight loss in achieving and sustaining clinically meaningful weight loss

A new study published at the European Congress on Obesity found that participants who underwent rapid weight loss lost significantly more weight than those who followed a gradual weight loss plan. After one year, the rapid weight loss group had achieved clinically meaningful weight loss and maintained it better than the gradual weight ...

Share proton therapy across national borders and plan five new centres in Romania, Greece, Italy, Northern Ireland and Poland to maximise access for patients in Europe

A new study aims to make proton therapy available to more patients in Europe by planning five new centres across Romania, Greece, Italy, Northern Ireland, and Poland. Currently, 59% of European cancer patients have access to the treatment, but this can be increased to 87% with strategic location and expansion.

SourceEuropean Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO)·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2026

Obesity and dietician societies combine to issue consensus recommendations on use of incretin drugs in obesity therapy

The European Association for the Study of Obesity, dietitian societies, and patients' organizations have issued a new consensus statement on using incretin drugs to treat obesity. The statement highlights the importance of medical nutritional therapy (MNT) and reinforces healthy dietary patterns. It also emphasizes the need to monitor ...

JMIR Biomedical Engineering invites submissions on “Sex and Gender in Biomedical Engineering: Toward Equitable Outcomes in Workforce and Modeling.”

This section explores how recognizing sex as a biological variable and gender as a sociocultural construct can lead to more precise computational models and safer medical technologies. The aim is to foster an equitable and effective biomedical engineering field where technologies meet the needs of all populations.

Ochsner Children’s cardiologist named one of several principal investigators in $15 million initiative to treat heart valve disease

Dr. Craig Sable, a pediatric cardiologist at Ochsner Children's, is part of a landmark research network aiming to advance early detection and treatment of valvular heart disease. The SHIELD Center, funded by the American Heart Association, utilizes AI technology to scale echocardiography screening for earlier RHD diagnosis.

Researchers solve longstanding problem in measuring semiconductor defects

A new method by Auburn University researchers and partners at Sandia National Laboratories accurately detects atomic-scale defects in electronic materials, improving technologies such as electric vehicles and high-power electronics. The technique uses a physics-based framework to remove measurement uncertainty.

SourceAuburn University Department of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

Historical DNA connects 1.3 million living relatives to 17th-century Maryland settlers and may have identified the colony’s second governor

A study of 49 colonists from St. Mary's City, Maryland, reveals over 1.3 million living genetic relatives of founding settlers. The research team used DNA to propose possible identities for previously unknown individuals buried in the city's Chapel Field cemetery.

Source23andMe Research Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2026

Study is first to detect, track multiple cancer-causing viruses in wastewater

A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology detects all known cancer-causing viruses in wastewater across Texas, revealing increased abundance of viruses such as HPV and EBV. The approach enables tracking of vaccine-preventable viruses like HPV-16 and HPV-18, which could inform vaccination programs.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

Hidden small RNA determines if cholera bacterium can infect humans

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified a small RNA embedded within the V. cholerae gene as the key factor controlling its ability to infect humans. Variations in this RNA controlled about 85% of genes related to human infection, enabling the bacteria to evade immune barriers and colonize the gut.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

Childhood disadvantage can limit the social benefits of intelligence later in life, new research shows

A new study by Professor Chris Dawson found that childhood disadvantage is linked to lower levels of trust in others, with intelligence having half the effect on social benefits. The study analyzed data from over 24,000 people across the UK and suggests that stable childhood environments may be crucial in shaping life chances.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

Digital environments generate moderate levels of psychological overload among university students

A scoping review of 7 international studies with 3,744 students found that psychological discomfort is currently at low or moderate levels, but student satisfaction with digital tools directly relates to better mental health. Risk factors include 'false' omnipresence, digital fatigue, and social isolation.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCogent Education·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 14, 2026

Building density, not trees, was strongest predictor of home loss in los angeles firestorms, finds new Cal Poly study

A new study by Cal Poly faculty found that building density, not urban trees, was the strongest predictor of home loss in Los Angeles firestorms. The study examined 15,082 structures and 52,893 tree canopies within the Eaton and Palisades fire scars.

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

New study provides rule of thumb to estimate land sustainability in river deltas

Researchers found two distinct growth patterns in river deltas, uniform and composite, which can help engineers estimate land build-up based on channel length. This insight will aid coastal restoration and flood protection efforts by directing limited resources to areas where they can make the most impact.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2026

New Astrobiology special collection explores emerging scientific evidence for land-based origins of life

The collection examines how volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and terrestrial environments may have provided chemical complexity necessary for nonliving chemistry to transition into evolving protocell populations. Researchers propose that fluctuating terrestrial environments were essential for early evolution, leading to the emergence ...

SourceSAGE·JournalAstrobiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

AI model predicts 10-year stroke risk based on routine cardiology test

A new AI model, ECG2Stroke, can predict the risk of a stroke up to 10 years into the future using only electrocardiogram (ECG) data and a patient's age and sex. The model was trained on over 200,000 patients and showed accuracy in predicting cardioembolic strokes, which are preventable with blood thinners.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2026

Steroid use falls, but creatine use climbs rapidly

A new study from the University of Michigan found that US teens are using less anabolic steroids and more creatine supplements, which may be driven by social media trends promoting extreme fitness practices. The rapid increase in creatine use among adolescents is concerning due to limited evidence on its safety and efficacy in youth.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateMay 14, 2026

Why babies are dying and how we can stop it

A groundbreaking study found that infections cause 44% of neonatal deaths across multiple sites in Africa and South Asia, with over 80% preventable under current or improved facility-based conditions. The study highlights the urgent need to strengthen infection prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMay 14, 2026

Houston Methodist researchers develop AI platform to decode how cells ‘talk’ in cancer, Alzheimer's and other complex diseases

The AI platform, Co-Intelligent Single-cell Spatial Cell-cell Communication (iS2C2), analyzes complex data to identify communication networks in the body. It uncovers previously underappreciated pathways contributing to disease progression, potentially leading to new treatment targets.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·DateMay 14, 2026

A new method could help Washington shellfish farmers control a pesky shrimp

Researchers have developed a non-chemical method to kill burrowing shrimp in targeted areas, reducing their population by up to 98%. The technique uses vibration and pressure to compact sediment and trap shrimp, starved of oxygen, leading to their death. The method shows promise for shellfish farmers struggling with the invasive species.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Shellfish Research·DateMay 14, 2026

NTU Singapore scientists develop near-invisible solar cells that could turn windows into power generators

Researchers at NTU Singapore created perovskite solar cells that are 10,000 times thinner than human hair and achieved high power conversion efficiencies. These semi-transparent cells could be integrated into buildings, vehicles, and wearable devices without changing their appearance.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

A fresh approach to peppermint

Researchers at UC Davis have found over 250 new genetically distinct variants of peppermint through gamma radiation-induced mutations. These variants can be used to identify key genes for breeding or selecting new varieties with improved disease resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

Restructuring hospitals to help the elderly

Researchers at Kyoto University found that hospital restructuring improved local capacity for elderly hospital admissions and enabled more efficient bed management. The study suggests that reorganization can alleviate regional healthcare disparities in the elderly population.

SourceKyoto University·JournalBMC Health Services Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

Young people are aware of and normalize hidden design features of video games that encourage spending

A study by UOC researchers reveals that young people are not fooled by monetization systems in video games; they often accept them as part of the gaming experience. The study highlights various systems that encourage consumption, such as loot boxes and virtual currencies, and shows a consistent relationship between these mechanisms and...

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalEntertainment Computing·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 14, 2026

Which medicines can most affect driving?

Researchers developed a new scale to estimate the risk of using medicines while driving, combining factors such as adverse effects and dosage. The FMB scale offers greater resolution than existing systems like DRUID, allowing for more precise identification of medicines with similar profiles.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalTherapeutic Advances in Drug Safety·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 14, 2026

Implantable living materials autonomously deliver therapeutics using contained engineered bacteria

Researchers have introduced an implantable 'living material' that contains bacteria sensing infections and releasing therapeutic molecules on demand. Engineered living cells can autonomously sense disease and deliver treatment directly at affected sites, offering a new class of medicine that sustains itself in vivo.

KAIST develops real-time diagnostic smart dressing patch to end the fear of diabetic foot amputation​

A real-time diagnostic smart dressing patch has been developed by KAIST to monitor diabetic foot wounds. The patch combines an optoelectronic sensor with a functional dressing to analyze glucose concentration, acidity, and temperature changes in real-time, enabling patients to check their condition using a smartphone.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 14, 2026

Large-scale eDNA survey reveals "hidden" factors that affect regional fish communities

A large-scale eDNA survey revealed five biogeographic boundaries along the Japanese coast, where fish composition changes significantly due to ocean currents. The study detected 1,220 coastal fish species, providing new insights into how climate change and human activities impact regional ecosystems.

The hidden force of growth

Researchers found that self-propelled particles can spontaneously form clusters when navigating a dense colony of dividing cells. The growing medium creates an environment that transforms the particles' behavior, making them behave like active Brownian particles and attracting them to each other without explicit interaction.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateMay 14, 2026

Engaging young minds: Augmented reality helps children with STEM

Researchers found that augmented reality smart glasses improved engagement and academic outcomes for Year 1 and 2 students in an Australian primary school. The AR technology used immersive visual learning environments to teach science topics, resulting in enhanced cognitive development and social interaction.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Science Education and Technology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2026

Stanford Medicine researchers link human molecular, microbial diversity with geography, ethnicity

A recent study published in Cell reveals that ethnicity and geography significantly influence human molecular diversity, including metabolism, immunity, and gut microbiota. The research found distinct molecular signatures associated with each ethnic group, highlighting the complex interplay between genetics and environment.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

Heart disease risk may start in the womb, study finds

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that young adults whose mothers had high blood pressure during pregnancy had more signs of early arterial injury, higher blood pressure, and higher body mass index. This suggests that cardiovascular risk may be transmitted across generations through a combination of biological, environmental, and...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 14, 2026

Scientists show genes give neurons a ‘GPS’ to form the brain’s neural circuits

Researchers develop machine learning analysis method SPERRFY that combines datasets on brain region connections and gene activity. The study finds a 'GPS' system of genes that predict which brain regions are connected, supporting the chemoaffinity theory and offering new avenues for research into brain development and disease.

SourceNagoya University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

Korea University’s College of Medicine held the opening ceremony and commemorative international symposium for the MRI Precision Imaging Research Center

The center aims to enhance international cooperation in medical research and become one of the five core institutions at Korea University Mediscience Park. The event featured keynote lectures by experts from the University of Nottingham and domestic speakers sharing IBS's MRI operational know-how.

EU rules could make fossil-free aviation fuels unnecessarily expensive and energy-intensive

The EU's plans for domestic production of fossil-free aviation fuels risk steering development towards more expensive and energy-intensive pathways. A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the current regulatory framework favours combustion-based alternatives over gasification, leading to increased costs and energy use.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalFuel·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2026

Chinese Medical Journal study examines rising neurological disease burden in China

A recent Chinese Medical Journal study analyzed data from 1990 to 2021, revealing a significant increase in neurological disorders such as dementia, Parkinson's disease, and ischemic stroke. The study identified a turning point coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for coordinated national strategies to address t...

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study finds most basilar trunk aneurysms treatable with minimally invasive techniques

A new study published in the Chinese Neurosurgical Journal found that most basilar trunk artery aneurysms can be treated effectively using endovascular techniques, resulting in encouraging long-term recovery rates. However, larger aneurysms pose higher treatment risks and are associated with complications and poorer outcomes.

SourceChinese Neurosurgical Journal·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2026

In productive ecosystems, larger animals capture more energy per species - but human pressure is reshaping the balance

A new study found that larger-bodied species can capture more energy per species on average, particularly in highly productive environments. However, human impacts are restructuring these patterns by disproportionately removing large-bodied species from local communities. The research also highlights the need for biodiversity assessmen...

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalFrontiers of Biogeography·DateMay 14, 2026

Study provides detailed assessment of shifts in toxin producing phytoplankton abundance

A study has mapped changes in the distributions of two phytoplankton groups, Pseudo-nitzschia and Dinophysis, which produce toxins that can harm human health and marine ecosystems. The research reveals significant shifts over six decades, with changes aligned more closely with climate-driven ocean physical shifts.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalHarmful Algae·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2026