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Science News Archive May 2026 - Page 20


Page 20 of 48

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