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Science News for May 18, 2026


Study finds dementia risk factors could depend on which country you live in

A new study by Curtin University found that millions of dementia cases across the Western Pacific Region could be prevented by implementing country-specific strategies to address key risk factors. The research highlights a major opportunity for prevention, showing how different countries' economic and social contexts affect risk factors.

SourceCurtin University·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

Microbubble-enhanced cold plasma activation transforms wastewater into green liquid fertilizer

Researchers develop automated plasma-bubble technology that intensifies cold plasma-liquid interaction to transform industrial wastewater into a reusable fertigation medium. The technology fixes vital bioavailable nitrogen in wastewater, reducing organic loads and suspended particles while increasing plant growth rates.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Community-based baby hip screening success

A recent trial in Japan found community-based ultrasound screening detected 8.7% of infants with developmental dysplasia of the hip, including those without clinical signs or known risk factors. The study suggests that comprehensive ultrasound screening could help catch missed cases without requiring hospital resources.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalInternational Journal of Nursing Studies·TypeCase study·DateMay 18, 2026

Assessment and optimization of 2T perovskite/CIGS tandems via data‑driven and optoelectronic modelling

Researchers used advanced modelling to identify key losses in perovskite/CIGS tandems, proposing a three-step optimization strategy to reach theoretical potential. The study also considered real-world operating conditions and found the devices maintain high efficiency under diffuse light and varying temperatures.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMay 18, 2026

Therapy at your fingertips: new Reichman University study led by Prof. Anat Shoshani of the Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology finds AI could transform mental health care

A new study from Reichman University found that an AI-based conversational support platform can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The platform, called Kai, was able to form a meaningful therapeutic alliance with users, providing round-the-clock emotional support.

SourceReichman University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 18, 2026

Silver vine or catnip? When cats can choose, silver vine wins

A study by Iwate University and Nagoya University found that domestic cats respond more reliably to silver vine than to catnip when given the choice. Cats exhibited rubbing and rolling behavior towards silver vine in both free-choice outdoor experiments and captive laboratory tests, while responding less consistently to catnip.

SourceIwate University, Japan·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·TypeNews article·DateMay 18, 2026

Antibiotic proves ineffective in treating wheezing in young children in the emergency room

A study led by University of Arizona researchers found that azithromycin did not improve symptoms in preschool children with severe wheezing. The trial results challenge the idea that certain types of bacteria contribute to wheezing and asthma, suggesting that viral infections play a more significant role.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 18, 2026

Loneliness increased over 40 years in Japan

A cross-temporal meta-analysis of loneliness studies in Japan found a substantial increase in loneliness over the past 40 years. Loneliness was particularly pronounced among adolescents and women, coinciding with changes in social indicators such as marriage rates and GDP.

SourceChuo University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

Lost in translation: CityUHK research unveils hidden “home court advantages” in the market

A recent study by CityUHK researchers found that companies intentionally withhold complex information from foreign investors while emphasizing accounting details in English. This 'differential communication' strategy creates a structural disadvantage for international stakeholders, affecting their investment decisions and forecasts.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalThe Accounting Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

Spanish clinical trial demonstrates the potential of mesenchymal stem cells to reduce inflammation in "butterfly skin" patients

A Spanish clinical trial demonstrates the potential of mesenchymal stem cells to reduce inflammation in Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB) patients, also known as 'butterfly skin'. The treatment showed improved symptoms like pruritus, sleep disturbances, and fatigue after receiving infusions.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 18, 2026

Alzheimer’s drug analysis may lead to misinterpretations of drug's effects, study finds

A new statistical approach used in Alzheimer's disease trials may exaggerate the link between amyloid reduction and cognitive benefits of new drugs. Researchers found that combining large groups of patients can hide variability and make it appear as if reducing amyloid is more predictive of cognitive benefit than it actually is.

SourceBrown University·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

Revealing hidden diversity of algae in farmland

A pilot study discovered over 100 different algae species in German farmland, with blue-green and green algae prevalent during summer, and yellow-green algae during spring and autumn. The research highlights the importance of soil algae in maintaining soil health and fertility.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 18, 2026

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging study on the effects of visual status on walking-related brain functions in healthy young adults

The study found that visual occlusion triggers brain compensation characterized by enhanced functional connectivity between the right precentral and middle frontal gyri. Walking activates multiple sensorimotor pathways to support basic locomotion, and visual occlusion further strengthens this connection as a compensatory mechanism.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMay 18, 2026

Butyrate relieves temporomandibular joint pain through epigenetic regulation

Researchers found that butyrate alleviates TMJ pain by reversing epigenetic and gene regulatory pathways in the brain. The study identified key genes and mechanisms involved in pain-related molecular pathways, providing new insights into the biological mechanisms of TMJ pain.

SourceEditorial Office of West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University·JournalInternational Journal of Oral Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Sweeping up dust to detect emerging viruses

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered that dust can be used to track viral outbreaks in indoor settings. The team identified 54 distinct viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, using a novel sequencing technique. This method has the potential to provide quick and high-resolution insights into what is happening withi...

SourceOhio State University·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateMay 18, 2026

Global collaboration on Kawasaki disease key to reducing risk of serious heart conditions

A new science advisory calls for coordinated international efforts to reduce disparities in care for children with Kawasaki disease, a rare but serious illness primarily affecting young children. The advisory highlights the importance of sharing data, expertise, and best practices to improve heart health outcomes for children with Kawa...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 18, 2026

Study finds integrating substance use disorder treatment into clinic-based internal medicine expands access to care

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that embedding addiction treatment into primary care training clinics can expand access to care and boost physician confidence. The study showed marked improvements in resident education outcomes, including increased confidence in diagnosing and treating substance use disorders.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAcademic Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Establishing a regulatory framework for phage therapy in China

China lacks a dedicated regulatory framework for phage therapy, but recent policy signals encourage development of standards and approval pathways. A three-pillared approach recommends national quality guidelines, phase-appropriate GMP pilot programs, clear product classification, and regional centers with reimbursement mechanisms.

SourceSciOpen·JournalhLife·DateMay 18, 2026

Why do dementia and cognitive decline patients remain stuck in past memories?… KAIST identifies memory-switching mechanism​

KAIST researchers have identified a neural circuit that switches between past and recent memories, allowing the brain to select necessary information. The study suggests that specific brain rhythms and states are crucial for effective memory retrieval, with longer online states leading to better recall of recent memories.

Mizzou scientists discover a way to automate production of a cancer-fighting drug candidate

Researchers at Mizzou's Molecular Imaging and Theranostics Center developed an automated approach to producing the prostate cancer treatment. The new method produces CTT1403 in just 38 minutes, compared to six hours with traditional methods, using a commercially available automated synthesis system.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNuclear Medicine and Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

New economics study finds ICE activity upended the US childcare workforce

A new study found that increased immigration enforcement by ICE led to significant declines in employment among immigrant women in regulated childcare settings, with a shift towards private household childcare. This may negatively impact childcare quality and stability, as well as labor markets for lower- and middle-income parents.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

Study to evaluate family healthy weight program for childhood obesity in primary care clinics in Louisiana and Tennessee

A research study, COACH trial, is testing different ways to help children and families improve their health through lifestyle changes delivered by primary care clinics. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of personalized nutrition counseling, community resources, and online interactive lessons on weight management.

Turning down the heat from data centers

Researchers at Arizona State University measured air temperatures downwind and upwind of data centers in Phoenix, finding a significant impact on surrounding neighborhoods. Temperatures downwind averaged 1.3-1.6 degrees warmer than upwind, with detectable effects up to five city blocks away.

SourceArizona State University·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

International experts call for end to routine reporting of “corrected” calcium

International experts in laboratory medicine, osteoporosis, and chronic kidney disease recommend ending routine reporting of albumin-adjusted ('corrected') calcium. The practice may misclassify patients and compromise care due to unreliable correction formulas and variability in local measurements.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalClinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM)·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 18, 2026

New study finds surgical patients with mental health conditions who receive music therapy are more medically complex

Surgical patients with mental health and/or substance use disorders who receive music therapy have a 41.8% longer length of stay compared to those without music therapy. They also exhibit increased resource-intensive admissions, anxiety, trauma/stress-related disorders, and heart failure.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalJournal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine·DateMay 18, 2026

Shooting for the moon: Ultrastable lasers in dark craters could enable lunar navigation, precision timekeeping, new science

Physicist Jun Ye proposes building a highly stable laser inside permanently shadowed lunar craters, leveraging their extremely low vibrations and temperature to achieve unparalleled precision. This could form the backbone of a lunar time scale, GPS-like navigation, and space-based optical atomic clocks.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal article finds that flow diversion devices are exceptionally safe

A long-term study of patients treated with flow diversion devices (FDDs) for intracranial aneurysms revealed excellent safety profiles, with no significant differences in outcomes between various FDD platforms. The study found that multiple FDDs were associated with a higher risk of insufficient closure and delayed complications.

SourceChinese Neurosurgical Journal·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

AI-powered CPR coach outperforms 911 dispatchers in guiding bystander resuscitation

A new study shows that an AI-powered CPR coaching agent can significantly improve survival rates by providing more accurate and comprehensive instructions. ChatCPR scored 100% on guideline-based CPR checklists and outperformed human dispatchers in guiding bystander resuscitation, with a 36-point gap in advanced steps.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Facing danger with maturity

Researchers discovered that stem cells can mature into potent antimicrobial cells when infected with bacteria, sacrificing their own lifespan to prevent prolonged infection and promote tissue repair. This newfound mechanism may hold potential for understanding inflammatory diseases like Crohn's disease.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Immunology·DateMay 18, 2026

SKKU research team reveals chemical pathway for next-generation infrared III–V nanocrystals

The study demonstrates a rational precursor design principle for heavy-pnictogen-based III–V nanocrystals, enabling safer and more scalable semiconductor quantum dot synthesis. Metal-amide species play a central role in controlling the reduction of heavy-pnictogen precursors.

SourceSungkyunkwan University External Affairs Division (PR team)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 18, 2026

Observation of a photocurrent reflecting magnetic states in an atomically thin magnetic material

In this study, researchers investigate the photocurrent response of a bilayer atomically thin antiferromagnet, discovering a finite current generated by illumination even without applied voltage. The direction of the photocurrent reverses between two antiferromagnetic states, directly reflecting the material's magnetic configuration.

SourceInstitute for Solid State Physics, the University of Tokyo·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Flawed but correctable research hindered progress in infection-triggered chronic conditions, including Lyme disease and Long COVID

A systematic review by 16 leading researchers at Rutgers University and other institutions highlights recurring problems in studies of infection-associated chronic illnesses, including the failure to prove participants have the relevant pathogen. The authors propose a framework for rigorous study design to confirm diagnoses, choose com...

SourceRutgers University·JournalBrain·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 18, 2026

White hydrogen discovered in billion-year-old Canadian Shield rock points to potential new energy source

Researchers at the University of Toronto and the University of Ottawa have discovered large volumes of natural hydrogen in the Canadian Shield, which could provide a domestic source of cost-effective energy. The study suggests that harnessing this resource could reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support local industry hubs.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Bringing bacteria into better focus

Osaka Metropolitan University researchers developed a light-driven method to rapidly collect microscopic targets, outperforming traditional techniques. The technique concentrates bacteria between 1000-10,000 times faster than existing approaches, paving the way for early disease detection and analysis of nanoparticles.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Study finds payments to Medicare Advantage brokers potentially reached $10 billion annually

Researchers at Brown University found that payments to Medicare Advantage brokers more than doubled between 2014 and 2022, rising from $3.9 billion to roughly $10 billion a year. The study also revealed that broker involvement is common and growing, with 70% of Medicare Advantage beneficiaries generating renewal commissions.

SourceBrown University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

Photonic wireless transmission reaches 112 Gbps at 560 GHz using soliton microcombs

Researchers developed a microcomb-driven terahertz wireless communication system that surpasses conventional limits by achieving 112 Gbps data rates in the 560 GHz band. This breakthrough uses high-frequency stability and low phase noise of microcombs to generate a low-noise terahertz carrier.

SourceInstitute of Post-LED Photonics, Tokushima University·JournalCommunications Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Transparent hybrid metal halide glassy scintillators for tunable multicolor and high-resolution X-ray imaging

Researchers developed transparent hybrid metal halide glass scintillators that overcome light scattering and monochromatic limitations in X-ray imaging. The materials achieved high spatial resolutions of 18.8 and 22.5 lp mm⁻¹, nearly twice those of previously reported crystalline composite counterparts.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMay 18, 2026

Dehydration’s role in learning and memory

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered how dehydration enables calcium to pass through the NMDAR channel, revealing key molecular mechanisms underlying learning and memory. This finding has implications for brain development and disease, including GRIN disorders that cause severe developmental disabilities.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 18, 2026

New study finds sharp rise in children’s mental health needs seen in primary care

A new study found a steady rise in children's mental health concerns during routine primary care visits, with anxiety-related visits increasing by 300% over 10 years. The study highlights the growing role of pediatric primary care in addressing mental health needs and calls for more training and resources to support this shift.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 18, 2026

Researchers unravel a copper-based ’sensor’ that underpins signal detection in plants

Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered a copper-dependent sensing system in plants that detects hydrogen peroxide, a key signaling molecule involved in stress responses and immunity. This finding paves the way for improving crop resilience and understanding plant responses to environmental stress and pathogens.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Links discovered between mitochondrial lipid deficiency and inflammation of the gut

A study published in Nature Metabolism has found a crucial link between mitochondrial lipid deficiency and gut inflammation, revealing that cardiolipin plays a key role in maintaining immune homeostasis. The research suggests that targeting the metabolism of immune cells could be a new approach to treating inflammatory bowel diseases.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

augmented: life and death as a cyborg

This book challenges traditional notions of biology and death by exploring technological augmentations and their impact on human life. Candi Cann argues that being part-machine could make us more human, not less, and calls for a more inclusive, compassionate community.

How location sharing apps change the ways we communicate

A new study explores how location sharing apps impact interpersonal communication, revealing safety and practical reasons for sharing locations. The findings suggest that technology is increasingly dictating communication methods, potentially altering relationships and human interaction.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateMay 18, 2026

Southeast University and Korea University researchers develop smarter copper catalysts for turning CO₂ into fuels

Southeast University and Korea University researchers developed advanced copper catalysts to convert CO₂ into valuable fuels. Their strategy integrates tandem effects, synergistic interactions, and geometric control to enhance reaction pathways, reducing energy barriers for C₂+ product formation.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalSmall Structures·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 18, 2026

New study links erosion to natural hydrogen potential in mountain ranges

A new international study confirms that erosion plays a key role in forming and accumulating natural hydrogen in mountain ranges. The Pyrenees and Alps are identified as key targets for natural hydrogen exploration, with the right conditions allowing for efficient serpentinization and hydrogen production.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Solid Earth·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 18, 2026

Global North drains resources and labour from Latin America through unequal exchange in international trade

A new study reveals that the Global North has drained over 900 million tonnes of materials, 4 million km2 of land, and 53 billion hours of labor from Latin America through international trade. This unequal exchange reinforces the existing power imbalance in the global economy.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalEcological Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

You are what you eat: how diet drives evolution

Researchers have discovered how diet influences the composition of intestinal tissue in cichlid fishes, a key aspect of evolutionary diversification. The study found that different diets lead to distinct cellular adaptations, including changes in the number and type of cells involved in nutrient absorption.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature·DateMay 18, 2026

Should you accept internet cookies? BU researchers say the open web could suffer without them

A study by Boston University researchers found that removing cookies cuts website publishers' revenue by over a third, with privacy-enhanced alternatives recovering only a small portion of the lost revenue. The loss of cookies could impact the quality and usefulness of digital products.

SourceBoston University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

Teaching with food boosts preschoolers’ science knowledge and vocabulary

A new study by North Carolina State University found that teaching with food can increase preschoolers' understanding of scientific concepts four times more than traditional methods. The 'More PEAS Please!' program also improved vocabulary skills, with a 20% increase in the group that received the intervention.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026