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Science News for May 19, 2026


Advanced construction techniques and domestic layouts discovered in Roman-Byzantine villages of Syria

Archaeological studies of Roman-Byzantine villages in Syria reveal advanced construction techniques and domestic layouts that can inform future restoration projects. The findings offer an extensive analysis of building materials used in the construction of a village called Ba'ude.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalBulletin of the American Society of Overseas Research·TypeSurvey·DateMay 19, 2026

Princeton study reveals need for domestic efforts and international sourcing to secure future of electric vehicle batteries in the US

A Princeton study projects persistent shortfalls in critical EV battery materials if domestic production expansion, demand-side strategies, and international sourcing are not aligned. Domestic expansion can meet projected demand for some key materials, but significant uncertainties remain.

Earlier sexual debut may shape aging later in life

A new study suggests that an earlier first sexual intercourse may be associated with a less favorable multidimensional aging profile, including shorter longevity and higher frailty. The researchers found that genetic differences in early sexual debut were linked to poorer health outcomes later in life.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalHealthcare and Rehabilitation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2026

MXene‑assembled liquid metal hybrid microparticles for multifunctional and stretchable printed electronics

Researchers created a multifunctional material platform by integrating 2D MXene nanosheets with liquid metal, enabling both high conductivity and electrochemical activity. The MXene-assembled liquid metal hybrid microparticles (MLHMs) demonstrated excellent interfacial adhesion and stability, making them suitable for real-world dynamic...

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMay 19, 2026

Paving the way for zero-carbon shipping: Novel ammonia engine combustion mode cuts greenhouse gases by over 70%

A breakthrough solution has been unveiled for decarbonizing the transportation sector, particularly heavy-duty marine shipping. The Ammonia Thermal Atmosphere Compression Ignition (TACI) combustion mode achieves highly efficient, stable and clean ammonia diffusion combustion under mild operating conditions.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalENGINEERING Energy·TypeNews article·DateMay 19, 2026

Breaking the bonds: A unified strategy for solar-driven upcycling of biomass and waste plastics

Researchers develop bond-centric framework to selectively activate C-H and C-C bonds in biomass and plastics for sustainable valorization. The review proposes a roadmap for industrialization, focusing on precise bond discrimination, high solar-to-chemical energy conversion efficiencies, and hybrid systems.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalENGINEERING Energy·TypeNews article·DateMay 19, 2026

Children of parents with severe mental illness face higher risk of cognitive difficulties

A new study led by Murdoch University found that children of parents with severe mental illness are more likely to experience cognitive difficulties. The study analysed data from over 1.5 million people and found that offspring tended to perform lower across several cognitive domains, particularly where a parent had schizophrenia or bi...

SourceMurdoch University·JournalPsychological Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 19, 2026

Intrepid tails – fluke photos confirm humpback whales mount 14,000km open ocean crossing to breeding grounds

Scientists have documented humpback whales travelling over 14,000km between their breeding grounds in eastern Australia and Brazil, setting new records for the greatest distances ever confirmed. The findings highlight the value of citizen science and suggest climate-driven changes may be making such crossings more likely.

SourceGriffith University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMay 19, 2026

Cost of emergency hospital admissions for mental health problems in young people almost quadruples over a decade

The total cost of emergency admissions for mental health among children and young people in England rose from £22.5 million to £87.3 million between 2012/13 and 2021/22, driven by increases in admission rates and lengths of stay. Eating disorders and self-harm were the two most costly conditions, with over 80% of total mental health co...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

Sedative choice in pediatric intensive care may influence long-term neurocognitive outcomes

A new study suggests that the specific sedatives used during critical illness in early childhood may have long-term implications for a child's neurocognitive development. The research found that treatment with dexmedetomidine, rather than opioids and benzodiazepines alone, was associated with better neurocognitive outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 19, 2026

New research enables a robot to chart a better course

A new open-source trajectory-planning system, MIGHTY, has been developed by researchers at MIT and the University of Pennsylvania. The system enables robots to generate smooth flight paths while reacting to obstacles in real-time, making it suitable for applications such as search-and-rescue, last-mile delivery, and industrial inspection.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateMay 19, 2026

Three-minute video game identifies patients with depression

A low-cost game that can identify patients with depression in just three minutes has been developed by NYU Langone Health researchers. The game uses neurobiological studies to measure how patients' decisional reference points respond to changes in their environment, providing clues about what is happening in their brains.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

Violence against women remains high — particularly for marginalized groups

A recent study by UC Berkeley researchers found that rates of violence against women have remained largely unchanged in California, with Black and multiracial women facing the highest risks. The study analyzed 763,000 assault injuries in California from 2005-2022 and found persistent racial disparities.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2026

AI can seem more human than real humans in a classic Turing test, study finds

A new study from UC San Diego suggests that advanced large language models (LLMs) can exhibit human-like tone, humor, and fallibility in conversations, making it increasingly difficult for humans to distinguish between them and actual humans. This has major implications for how we think of AI, as the Turing test is no longer just about...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2026

Oral GLP-1s without fasting or reduced efficacy

Researchers at Duke University developed a new approach to deliver GLP-1 medications orally that maintains efficacy without requiring fasting. The technique uses an elastin-like polypeptide-based delivery system that protects the peptide from stomach acid and releases it in the intestines, bypassing the stomach's destructive acids.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell Biomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2026

Researchers map genetics of blood lipids with unprecedented precision

A study published in Nature Communications identified over 50 previously unknown genes that affect lipid composition in the human body. These findings may provide a better understanding of aging processes and pathological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular dysfunctions.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

“Brain signatures whisper warnings:” Researchers identify age 9 as critical turning point for anxiety and depression

A longitudinal study identified distinct brain-wave patterns emerging from age 9 that can forecast a child's vulnerability to anxiety or depression by age 13. The predictive markers reveal divergent neurodevelopmental trajectories linked to the right and left sides of the brain, respectively.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 19, 2026

Birds clap in the dark to flirt

Researchers have captured the behavior of scissor-tailed nightjars creating a unique sound by snapping their wrists together during courtship and copulation. The study sheds light on lesser-known bird communication methods and raises questions about the nuances of mechanical sounds.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Avian Biology·DateMay 19, 2026

America’s last-mile delivery divide

A recent study by Iowa State University researchers found that Americans' use of home delivery continues to be split sharply along geographic lines. Urban shoppers are more likely to rely on home delivery than rural households, driven by factors such as traffic congestion and limited parking in cities.

SourceIowa State University·JournalInternational Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management·DateMay 19, 2026

From silkworm to super material

Scientists at Tufts University and Imperial College London develop a new method to transform silk into high-performance solids that preserve its natural strength. The resulting material is remarkably tough and has exceptional properties similar to wood, while also being transparent to visible light.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2026

A new imaging approach captures brain activity across nine cell types at once — more than four times what was previously possible

A novel imaging pipeline called Neuroplex enables simultaneous measurements of up to nine distinct neuronal populations in living mice. This approach accelerates the pace of scientific exploration into how the brain controls behavior by overcoming fundamental limitations in miniscope recordings.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2026

Mount Sinai experts to present new research on AI model that predicts lung nodule risk, impact of air pollution during pregnancy, and more at ATS 2026 International Conference

Experts from Mount Sinai will present a new AI model that predicts lung nodule risk and assesses the impact of air pollution during pregnancy. The researchers also explore cognitive consequences of sleep-disordered breathing and reevaluate asthma guidelines to integrate both conditions.

Beyond 0 and 1: a material that can store four magnetic states

Researchers have discovered a ferrotoroidic material that can store information in four distinct magnetic states, allowing for increased storage capacity. The material's non-volatile behavior and ability to control magnetic states using electric and magnetic fields make it an attractive model system for exploring quaternary memory.

SourceInstitut Laue-Langevin·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2026

Watching carbon capture in action

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have built an instrument that lets them study direct air capture (DAC) in detail. The custom-designed laboratory flow cell enables accurate spatial mapping of the reaction's kinetics in real-time, shedding light on how efficiently the system works and how it should be designed.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateMay 19, 2026

New study: BMI alone does not fully capture health risks linked to obesity

A new study published in eBioMedicine found that integrating measurements such as body fat percentage and waist circumference can help identify individuals at high risk of developing obesity-related diseases. The research team analysed data from 489,311 participants and found that those with an adverse adiposity profile despite normal ...

SourceLund University·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

Cracking the code of p53 fragility: Why the genome guardian is prone to failure

Researchers identify energetic frustration in p53's sequence as a key factor in its fragility. The study shows that p53's flexibility comes at a high cost, allowing it to perform roles but making it prone to misfolding and aggregation. This knowledge offers a roadmap for cancer treatment by targeting specific regions sensitive to water.

SourceInstituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 19, 2026

From waste CO2 to high-value chemicals: a novel copper-based metal-organic framework material powers tandem using inexhaustible sunlight

A novel copper-based MOF material reduces CO2 to carbon monoxide and subsequently produces higher-value compounds, such as N-formamides, under visible light irradiation. The system offers a simpler and potentially greener alternative to conventional routes that rely on precious-metal catalysts and high temperatures.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateMay 19, 2026

Unexpected digital flexibility in monasteries

Researchers found that monasteries are surprisingly adaptable to technological change, using historic forms of organization as a strength in their digital transformation. The study highlights the importance of co-determination and decentralized decision-making processes in successful digitalization.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalResearch Policy·TypeSurvey·DateMay 19, 2026

One in five pregnancies miss timely syphilis screening in Ontario

A study found that one in five pregnancies in Ontario did not receive syphilis screening in the first trimester, with delayed screening more common among equity-deserving populations. The rate of congenital syphilis in Canada increased by 220% since 2018, highlighting the need for improved prenatal screening.

SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

KAIST-Hanwha solutions establishes ‘eco-friendly bio-platform’ to replace petroleum-derived naphtha​

Researchers at KAIST-Hanwha Solutions have established a new 'eco-friendly bio-platform' that can mass-produce sustainable raw materials for plastics and textiles using waste resources. The platform uses glycerol as a raw material to convert into 1,3-propanediol, a key material for plastics and cosmetics.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Chemical Engineering·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 19, 2026

Clinical trial offers hope of better recovery for intensive care survivors

A clinical trial found that a remote multicomponent rehabilitation programme can improve quality of life for patients recovering from intensive care, particularly those ventilated for shorter periods. The online intervention combined symptom management, exercise, psychological support, and peer information, offering hope for better rec...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 19, 2026

Revealing the invisible: a new baseline for Salish sea diatoms answers a global call

Researchers have published a new checklist of 924 diatom taxa alongside a curated dataset of 11,469 records in the open-access journal Biodiversity Data Journal, providing a long-needed foundation for environmental monitoring across the region. This dataset directly answers a key recommendation from the UN Plankton Manifesto and will s...

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateMay 19, 2026

More than a quarter of Guadalupe fur seals may be losing their fur

An observational study published in Frontiers in Marine Science revealed that Guadalupe fur seals are experiencing significant hair loss due to an alopecia syndrome. The study highlights the need for urgent action to address early mortality and human impact on these vulnerable marine mammals

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

Strengthening environmental stewardship practices to improve biodiversity protection worldwide

A new study suggests integrating indigenous and local management practices into scientific and political frameworks could improve biodiversity protection. The research identifies 343 reports of management practices targeting key cultural species, highlighting the importance of custodianship in biodiversity conservation.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalBioScience·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

Great biomonitoring insights achievable with shorter and cheaper stream surveys

Researchers in Brazil's Cerrado biome found that reducing stream sampling from 11 to 6 transects maintained reliable classification of streams as least-disturbed, moderately disturbed, or severely disturbed. The study suggests a streamlined approach can reduce field time and processing costs while preserving ecological indicators.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater Biology and Security·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2026

AI-driven framework enables precise prediction of RNA splicing and isoform usage

Researchers develop an AI framework to accurately predict RNA splicing and isoform usage, addressing the need for better management strategies in patients with Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome. The study highlights the importance of multidisciplinary coordination and prompt decision-making in this high-risk population.

SourceChinese Neurosurgical Journal·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeCase study·DateMay 19, 2026

Breaking the mid-infrared interconnection barrier: a robust bonding for high-power optics based on liquid-like chalcogenide glass

Researchers develop a novel adhesive based on liquid-like chalcogenide glass, enabling seamless bonding of high-index optical components and improving transmission and power delivery. The new material achieves significant enhancements in laser power delivery and durability under high-power conditions.

Nicotine e-cigarettes reduce harmful chemical exposure, help smokers quit

A new study found that switching to a nicotine e-cigarette reduces toxicant exposure and improves quitting rates, with the nicotine group having a higher chance of quitting entirely. The study's results suggest that nicotine e-cigarettes could serve as an effective off-ramp for smokers seeking to reduce their tobacco use.

SourcePenn State·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 19, 2026

New benchmarks based on top performers aim for achievable excellence in pediatric emergency care

A study derived 'achievable benchmarks of care' (ABCs) using electronic health record data to set realistic performance goals for pediatric emergency departments. The new benchmarks highlight gaps between typical and top-performing clinician performance, particularly in domains such as pain reduction and asthma management.

Solar power leaves land behind as floating systems gain ground

A study by National Taipei University of Technology found that offshore floating solar systems can generate up to 12% more electricity than traditional land-based systems. This increased energy output leads to greater carbon emission reductions due to the cooling effect of surrounding water, which absorbs heat and improves efficiency.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 19, 2026

A DNA-organizing protein offers new insight into infertility, IVF and generational health

A recent study by University of California - Davis researchers has identified a protein called DAXX that guides the packing and folding of DNA in sperm cells. This discovery could improve treatments for couples struggling with male infertility, as well as help understand how environmental factors impact offspring health.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGenes & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2026

Controlling chemical reactions more efficiently and sustainably

Researchers have developed a new synthesis method that enables precise control over chemical reactions at previously inaccessible sites on molecules. This breakthrough enables targeted modifications to carbon-hydrogen bonds, playing a key role in developing new drugs, functional materials, and more efficient chemical processes.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 19, 2026

Graph-theoretical signature from neural and vascular signals reveals spinal cord stimulation frequency-specific brain network in disorders of consciousness patients

This study investigates the effects of different spinal cord stimulation frequencies on brain networks in disorders of consciousness. It found that 5 Hz and 70 Hz triggered distinct network responses, with 5 Hz promoting rapid electrophysiological integration and 70 Hz favoring delayed hemodynamic and long-range network modulation.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateMay 19, 2026

USC comparison study of leading targeted therapies for ALK+ lung cancer could lead to better treatment decisions

A USC-led study analyzed insurance claims data from 940 patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer to compare the effectiveness of five tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The results showed alectinib and lorlatinib as promising treatments, offering longer survival times and better treatment duration compared to other options.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalLung Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2026

Scientists call for stewardship practices to be integrated into biodiversity conservation frameworks

A new study proposes a comprehensive framework identifying distinct biophysical stewardship practices across three ecological levels. The authors argue that underrepresentation of Indigenous knowledge in conservation research and policy is detrimental to effective governance, and their framework aims to address this imbalance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 19, 2026

Measuring urban vibrancy

Researchers propose a method to measure urban vibrancy by analyzing biodiversity and activity categories. The framework applies ecological concepts to urban planning, highlighting the importance of balancing activities in neighborhoods.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 19, 2026

New models enable better therapies against primary sclerosing cholangitis

Recent advancements in animal models, organoid models, and bioengineered organoids have provided new tools for studying primary sclerosing cholangitis. These models replicate the effects of bile retention and inflammation, enabling studies of disease mechanisms, drug screening, and preclinical evaluation.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalPortal Hypertension & Cirrhosis·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 19, 2026

Brain Network Disorders article reviews the adoption of AI in brain cancer segmentation

A systematic review of AI models for meningioma segmentation reveals that better model architecture is the key driver of improved performance. The top models achieved high accuracy and efficiency, while future research focuses on making them more generalizable and efficient for real-world clinical settings.

SourceBrain Network Disorders Editorial Office·JournalBrain Network Disorders·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 19, 2026

Incheon National University research turns customer reviews into actionable guidance

A new model combines text mining and machine learning to extract service-specific aspects and customer actions from online reviews. The model effectively identifies core technical issues and user love for a platform, enabling targeted decisions for improvement. Researchers validated the model using 231,705 online reviews of Roblox.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·TypeContent analysis·DateMay 19, 2026

TAILORx and RxPONDER trials shift to a discovery platform for analyzing breast cancer recurrence using advanced tumor profiling and AI

Researchers are analyzing paired original and recurrent breast cancer tumors to identify biological factors driving recurrences years after treatment. The TAILORx and RxPONDER trials have provided a large dataset of clinically annotated tumor samples, enabling the study of late recurrence and potential prevention strategies.

Extreme weather events accelerating tidal wetland loss

Tidal wetlands are critical ecosystems that support biodiversity and protect against flooding, but their loss is accelerating due to human development and climate change. A new study using satellite data shows that extreme weather events are driving this acceleration, with tidal wetland areas shrinking by 7.5% in the US since 1985.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2026

Beyond the blueprint: Early brain activity helps shape vocal circuits linked to a gene associated with speech and communication

Researchers at NYCU found that early brain activity contributes to the maturation of communication circuits, regulating Foxp2 expression. The study identifies a previously underappreciated circuit linking the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and striatum, which is active before vocalizations.

Seabird world shrinks as oceans warm

Seabirds are retreating into smaller areas of ocean and travelling further to find new places to live due to rapid climate warming. Scientists found that when temperatures rose quickly, seabirds did not shrink in size, but instead reduced their territories and traveled greater distances.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 19, 2026

Fear silences women politicians in public debate

A study of 43,000 Swedish politicians found that women are more likely to refrain from public statements due to fear of threats or harassment, especially on migration and gender equality. Politicians with an immigrant background also avoid making public statements, suggesting a need for increased voices and perspectives in policy debates.

SourceUppsala University·JournalBritish Journal of Political Science·TypeSurvey·DateMay 19, 2026

DNA floating in seawater is now enough to let scientists monitor the health of America’s dolphin populations

Researchers can now estimate genetic diversity of dolphins using environmental DNA (eDNA) from seawater samples, providing insights into population size and vulnerability to environmental changes. The study's findings suggest that repeated eDNA sampling can be used to monitor the health of dolphin populations.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2026

New research finds low-dose buprenorphine may help sustain ketamine’s benefits for suicidal ideation

New research finds that low-dose buprenorphine given after a single ketamine infusion can sustain reductions in suicidal ideation in adults with major depressive disorder. The study showed a 76% reduction in suicidal ideation at week four, compared to a 43% reduction in the placebo group.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 19, 2026