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Science News for May 7, 2026


Cosmic blowtorches: How quasars shut down star formation in the early universe

A team at the University of Arizona discovered exceptionally fast and powerful galactic winds from quasars a billion years after the Big Bang. These winds could have caused galaxies to lose gas supplies, effectively shutting down star formation. The study suggests that quasars with extreme outflows were more common in the early univers...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2026

Tomato-derived lycopene shields gut cells from fungal toxins

A recent study found that lycopene protects porcine intestinal epithelial cells from DON-induced damage by inhibiting PGAM5-mediated mitophagy-dependent ferroptosis. Lycopene increases tight junction proteins, reduces ROS levels, and stabilizes mitochondrial function, restoring barrier integrity.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

Association of childhood outdoor play with adult sedentary behavior and physical activity in patients with congenital heart disease

Children who engaged in regular outdoor play had lower sedentary time and higher moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in adulthood, while those experiencing exercise restrictions during childhood had lower adult physical activity levels. These findings support personalized lifestyle interventions for patients with CHD.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateMay 7, 2026

Dual-site functional orchestration enables synergistic anodic modulation and cathodic mooring for durable zinc–iodine batteries

Researchers developed a dual-site functional orchestration strategy using 2-imidazolidone to stabilize the zinc anode and eliminate the polyiodide shuttle effect. This approach enables synergistic modulation of both electrodes, resulting in improved durability and performance for large-scale energy storage applications.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMay 7, 2026

Ligand‑wise stripping dictates metal ensemble catalysts for selective oxidation of biomass‑derived 5‑hydroxymethylfurfural

Researchers developed a stepwise nitrogen stripping strategy to create a unique metal ensemble catalyst for selective oxidation of biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethylfurfural. The catalyst achieves high yields and efficiency under mild conditions, making it an attractive alternative to traditional non-precious metal catalysts.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMay 7, 2026

Brain imaging reveals migraine headache subtypes, Stanford Medicine researchers find

Researchers identified two biological subtypes of migraines using brain imaging, which could lead to better treatments and predictions for chronic migraine. The study found that patients in one subtype had more severe symptoms but were no more likely to develop chronic migraine, highlighting the need for improved diagnosis and treatment.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCephalalgia·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 7, 2026

Child abuse may be connected to changes in development, body regulation

A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that child abuse is associated with disrupted development and decreased ability to maintain stable bodily functions. The research suggests that different types of maltreatment affect children differently, with boys being more susceptible to negative effects than girls.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 7, 2026

New study finds Rx kids associated with significant reductions in infant maltreatment investigations

A new peer-reviewed study found that Michigan State University's Rx Kids program is associated with substantial reductions in child maltreatment investigations among infants. The program provided early economic support to families, leading to a 7-percentage-point decline or 32% relative reduction in maltreatment investigations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 7, 2026

Predicting the carbon cost of land-use change in Bangladesh’s Chittagong hill tracts

A new study warns that land-use changes in Bangladesh's Chittagong Hill Tracts could reduce the region's ability to store carbon, with measurable environmental and economic consequences by 2043. The study found that deep forest cover has declined while built-up areas, agricultural land, and scattered trees have expanded.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalCarbon Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

Inspired by the brain, researchers build smarter, more efficient computer hardware

University of Missouri researchers develop organic transistors that process information like biological neural networks, boosting brain-like computing and potentially leading to more energy-efficient artificial intelligence. The approach could lead to significant improvements in tasks such as pattern recognition and decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·DateMay 7, 2026

Mouse study suggests high-fat diets during pregnancy worsen severe gi illness in preterm babies

Researchers found that mice fed high-fat diets during pregnancy developed more severe symptoms of necrotizing enterocolitis and had poorly developed intestines. The study suggests a link between maternal obesity and diabetes, as well as maternal diet, to the development of this deadly condition in preterm babies.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateMay 7, 2026

Hasanuddin University study outlines protocol for a community-driven approach to prevent adolescent female suicide

A study protocol from Hasanuddin University aims to address gaps in mental health interventions for adolescent girls in Gorontalo, Indonesia. The qualitative study will explore experiences and perspectives of young women and stakeholders to develop a community-based intervention model.

SourceHasanuddin University·JournalInternational Journal of Qualitative Methods·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2026

Quantum metallurgy: Electron crystals deform and melt

Electron crystals, similar to atomic structures of crystals, can accumulate defects as they melt. Controlling the degree of melting may enable devices with neuromorphic computing and superconductors. The researchers found that electron crystals in metals can deform and melt, similar to physical solids, and their structure could be prec...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalMatter·DateMay 7, 2026

BMFTR awards millions in funding for fusion research – Dr. Yannik Zobus of GSI/FAIR secures a young investigators group

Dr. Yannik Zobus's LASE-FUSE project aims to develop a comprehensive, modular simulation framework for fusion laser systems, enabling holistic modeling and virtual optimization of complex systems. The project will receive three million euros in funding over five years through the 'Fusionstalente' program.

The ‘nostalgia effect’: Scientists produce less disruptive work as they age

A study by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that older scientists produce fewer disruptive new ideas than younger ones, creating a 'nostalgia effect' that influences scientific advancement. As scientists age, their papers tend to cite older research in new combinations rather than introducing wholly new concepts.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 7, 2026

KAIST unveils ‘complexity paradox’: Multimetallic nanoparticles grow more uniform as components increase

Researchers at KAIST and Stanford University discovered that complex compositions of multimetallic nanoparticles lead to their growth into more uniform structures, contrary to conventional expectations. This phenomenon enables the creation of high-performance catalysts and eco-friendly energy materials.

Missing information can misinform

A study by Marta Serra-Garcia examines how incentives in the online attention economy shape scientific communication, finding that attention-driven summaries are not more likely to be factually inaccurate but tend to include less information. The research reveals a trade-off between engaging content and conveying accurate details.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAmerican Economic Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

When nerve cells form new connections: approach to treating spinal cord injuries developed

A new treatment approach has been developed to treat spinal cord injuries by activating signaling pathways in both injured and uninjured nerve cells. Using the protein hyper-interleukin-6 (hIL-6), the researchers showed consistent improvements in walking ability and coordinated gait patterns in mice with contusion injuries.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

Study projects plant extinction rates through 2100

A new study from the University of California, Davis, projects that 7-16% of global plant species will lose more than 90% of their range by 2100 under current climate change projections. Habitat loss is expected to drive these extinctions, rather than a plant's ability to shift locations in response to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 7, 2026

Ultrahigh-energy cosmic messengers may carry ultraheavy secrets

Research suggests that some ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays could consist of atomic nuclei heavier than iron, losing energy more slowly as they travel through intergalactic space. This finding could help narrow down the possible sources of these particles and impact how we search for their origins.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 7, 2026

Trafficked pangolin DNA reveals hotspots of illegal wildlife trade

A study published in PLOS Biology reveals that small samples of trafficked pangolin DNA can track illegal trade routes and hotspots, including southwest Cameroon, Myanmar, and Africa. The research highlights the interconnectedness of domestic and international markets, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to disrupt traffick...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2026

Cooling without pumps: New measurement data for modular reactors

Researchers at Paul Scherrer Institute used high-speed cameras to document the physical processes inside a system on the scale of a nuclear power plant. They found that gases separate in the lower section, and condensation is determined by diffusion, not larger currents. The cooling process is highly dependent on local conditions.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNuclear Engineering and Design·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

Genomic insights unlocked: adaptive divergence of Capsella bursa-pastoris across altitudinal gradients

A research team has identified two distinct genetic lineages corresponding to low- and high-altitude habitats in Capsella bursa-pastoris. Genome-wide scans detected 54 candidate genes under positive selection, highlighting temperature seasonality and precipitation as key drivers of adaptive divergence.

SourceSouth China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalBiological Diversity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 7, 2026

The merits and pitfalls of metaphor use in science communication

Researchers explore two popular metaphors for describing climate-related issues: the ocean conveyor belt and tipping point metaphors. While they have scientific origins and helped foster interdisciplinary communications, oversimplification can lead to misunderstanding. Dr. Gerrit Lohmann suggests integrating communication research with...

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 7, 2026

Planning for hydrogen under geopolitical uncertainty

A new study analyzes three scenarios for green hydrogen production and trade, highlighting the need for policymakers and businesses to address uncertainties in global supply chains. The Fuel Switch scenario assumes stable alliances, but may misdirect investment; Industrial Relocation shifts production to low-cost regions with abundant ...

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalNature Reviews Clean Technology·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 7, 2026

Research shows soil temperature modulated millet agriculture in Neolithic East Asia

Researchers found that mid-Holocene soil cooling reduced thermally suitable zones for millet cultivation, contributing to a southward displacement of farming. Soil temperatures recovered after around 6,000 years ago, facilitating millet expansion and late Neolithic development.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 7, 2026

Brexit did not just shake Britain - it sent financial shockwaves across Europe

New research from the University of Surrey found that Brexit-related events significantly increased volatility spillovers between European markets. The analysis shows that large financial markets tend to transmit volatility to smaller ones, with France emerging as the most persistent transmitter of volatility across the EU.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalInternational Journal of Finance & Economics·DateMay 7, 2026

Seasonal COVID-19 vaccination in 2025/26 reduced risk of illness by half in Canada

A Canadian study found that seasonal COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduced the risk of illness in 2025/26, with vaccine protection extending beyond its target strain. The vaccine was particularly beneficial for people aged 65 or older, offering 53% effectiveness against severe COVID-19.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 7, 2026

Scientists reveal how cells “back up” DNA replication to survive severe damage

Researchers found that DNA helicase HELQ promotes replication fork reversal to protect cells from toxic DNA crosslinks. This process enables stalled replication forks to reverse and stabilize, minimizing mutations and cell death. The study identifies HELQ as a critical regulator of genome integrity under replication stress.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

Researchers reconstruct path and intensity of China's Guangzhou 'April 27' tornado using multi-source data

Researchers from South China University of Technology reconstructed the path and intensity of a devastating EF3-level tornado that occurred in Guangzhou, China on April 27, 2024. The study used a combination of UAV remote sensing, ground-based surveys, and mesoscale numerical simulation to analyze the tornado's damage mechanisms.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvances in Wind Engineering·TypeSurvey·DateMay 7, 2026

Copper cold plates could slash data-center energy usage

Researchers have designed copper cold plates with optimized fins that deliver up to 32% better cooling performance, reducing pressure drop by up to 68%. This technology could lead to significant energy savings in data centers, where it is estimated to contribute only around 1.1% of total energy usage.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

New TGen clinical test for multiple myeloma consolidates multiple analyses and provides detailed information in 3 days

JAYseq, a whole-genome sequencing assay, provides detailed information on genetic changes and cell surface proteins to guide personalized treatment strategies. The test enables the identification of high-risk markers and assesses the presence of specific cell surface proteins targeted by advanced immunotherapies.

Drug contamination traces may linger in cars, even after ventilation

Researchers at Flinders University found that methamphetamine contamination on car surfaces can persist despite ventilation, with textile or soft surfaces still at risk. The study highlights the complexity of managing meth contamination in contained spaces and emphasizes the need for public health safeguards when buying or using vehicles.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Chemistry·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2026

Scientists finally see inside the ‘black box’ of depression treatment

Researchers at UCLA Health have discovered that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) selectively targets specific brain cells to restore communication channels in the brains of stressed mice. The study found that TMS repairs damaged dendritic spines, leading to enhanced activity and rapid improvements in stress-related behaviors.

New heart disease risk prediction tool validated globally

A global validation study led by NYU Langone Health confirms the accuracy of the American Heart Association's PREVENT tool in predicting cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk for diverse populations. The tool, which considers kidney health and albuminuria levels, was found to be highly effective in identifying patients at high CVD risk.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

Wearable fabric electrotactile system with stimulation–inhibition electrode units

A team of researchers has developed a wearable fabric electrotactile system that provides more precise and localized tactile feedback in virtual reality. The system uses a novel 'stimulation-inhibition' design to cancel lateral current spread, resulting in improved recognition accuracy and reaction times for users.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateMay 7, 2026

Gut microbiota plays a role in metabolic health after bariatric surgery

A study by the University of Gothenburg reveals that changes in gut bacteria composition after bariatric surgery are strongly associated with improved glucose metabolism and insulin release. Patients with type 2 diabetes who achieved improved glycemic control exhibited greater microbial gene richness and enhanced fermentation processes.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2026

New study: Women are 60 percent more likely to be injured in car accidents than men

A new study by TU Graz finds that women have a 60 per cent higher injury risk in car accidents compared to men. Women suffer noticeably more severe injuries even at lower collision speeds, with the risk of serious injury or death being twice as high. The study highlights the need for more realistic tests and intelligent safety systems.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 7, 2026

New research suggests sexual arousal could blind people to rejection cues

A new study found that sexual arousal can make people more likely to interpret ambiguous interactions optimistically, even when there is uncertainty. This phenomenon can serve a purpose in early courtship by providing optimism, but also comes with costs as it may overshadow sensitivity to another person's actual wishes.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

Combination therapy with stem cell-derived immune cells boost anti-cancer response

A recent study reveals that combining iNKT cell therapy with antigen-presenting cells activated by a lipid compound triggers effective antitumor immunity. The therapy generates memory-phenotype T cells that can recognize and respond to specific threats, offering a promising personalized approach to cancer treatment.

SourceChiba University·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

Rapidly melting Antarctic ice shelves may cause global sea levels to rise far faster than expected – new study

A new study suggests that rapidly melting Antarctic ice shelves can lead to a significant increase in global sea levels. The researchers found that long, channel-like grooves on the underside of these ice shelves can trap warm ocean water, causing local melting and potentially weakening the structural strength of the ice shelf.

SourceiC3 Polar Research Hub·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2026

New national study published in The Permanente Journal shows physicians are changing their reasons for leaving clinical practice early

A national survey of 971 clinicians found that burnout, chronic workplace stress, administrative burden, and unrealistic patient expectations are now among the top reasons physicians leave clinical practice early. The study also highlights gender disparities in physician decisions to exit clinical practice.

SourceThe Permanente Federation·JournalThe Permanente Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 7, 2026

Key magic mushroom ingredient makes fish less aggressive and lazier

A study found that psilocybin, a key magic mushroom ingredient, significantly reduces aggressive attack behavior and energetically costly social behaviors in mangrove rivulus fish. The compound selectively dampens escalated social conflict without suppressing lower-energy social display behaviors.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2026

AI cuts wildlife tracking time from months to days

Researchers at Washington State University and Google developed an AI system that can process hundreds of thousands to millions of camera trap images in just a few days, reducing analysis time from months to days. The results aligned with human experts' models in roughly 85-90% of cases, making it a significant breakthrough for conserv...

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMay 7, 2026