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Science News Archive May 2026 - Page 37


Page 37 of 48

A tiny cell structure with a big role in brain development

Researchers at University of California - Riverside discovered that the primary cilium, a microscopic structure inside nearly every cell, plays a critical role in brain development. The study found that proteins associated with the cilium are directly linked to human developmental disorders and that protein production occurs directly w...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2026

Machine learning and multi-objective optimization boost PEMFC cold-start performance with cathode catalytic heating

Researchers combined machine learning and multi-objective optimization to enhance PEMFC cold-start efficiency. The cathode catalytic approach used a non-electrochemical combustion reaction, providing high-power heating during initial startup while inhibiting ice accumulation.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalENGINEERING Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2026

Advances in adsorption processes driven by machine learning

This review highlights the integration of machine learning with adsorption science and engineering, achieving high precision and interpretability in adsorption processes. The reviewed studies demonstrate that machine learning enables accurate prediction of adsorption performance, accelerates material discovery and process optimization,...

SourceELSP·JournalAI & Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 8, 2026

On air travel and digital currencies

The Baker McKenzie Award has recognized Dr. Alexander Heger's dissertation on European Competition Law and Air Transport for its outstanding analysis of a complex field. The award also goes to Dr. Felix-Julius Konow for his research on regulating stablecoins, which explores regulatory mechanisms to address economic and financial risks.

The cost of metamorphosis in amphibians

Researchers found that amphibian metamorphosis entails a direct cost, including weight loss and reduced energy intake, which varies by sex. The study uses the palmate newt as a model to shed light on the evolutionary mechanisms governing the persistence or loss of metamorphosis, particularly in the context of climate change.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalBMC Biology·DateMay 8, 2026

UCLA researchers help lead national effort to improve care for patients with glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive brain tumor that has seen modest improvements in survival rates over the past decade. Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center are part of a national effort to develop more personalized approaches to care, combining advanced imaging and analysis of tumor tissue samples and blood test...

AI-generated images of depression depict more stereotypes and arouse greater stigmatization

A study by UPF found that AI-generated images of depression reinforce stereotypes and stigmas, particularly in terms of marginalization and social exclusion. The research highlights the need for responsible mental health communication, emphasizing the importance of considering diverse experiences and promoting transparency around AI use.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalJMIR Human Factors·TypeSurvey·DateMay 8, 2026

What lies behind hereditary heart rhythm disorders

Researchers investigated the mechanisms of familial SQTS caused by SLC4A3 gene mutations, finding altered ion channel function and increased intracellular pH. The study revealed that correcting these mutations can prolong the action potential duration and reduce arrhythmias in human heart cells.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2026

Nanoparticles overcome drug-resistant cancer via sequential drug release and photothermal therapy

Researchers have developed nanoparticles that sequentially disable the cancer cell's drug-expulsion mechanism and then release anticancer drugs, combined with photothermal therapy. This approach overcomes multidrug resistance and achieves complete tumor elimination in a mouse model, with no detectable toxicity to normal tissues.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateMay 8, 2026

Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases are primary drivers of excess US deaths compared to other high-income countries

The US had substantially higher death rates between 1999 and 2022 compared to other wealthy nations, with cardiovascular diseases being the leading cause of excess mortality. An estimated 12.7 million US deaths could have been averted during this period if US mortality rates mirrored those of its peers.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2026

Mid-domain effect and wooded habitats jointly shape Mediterranean reptile communities

The study found a clear hump-shaped elevational pattern with species richness peaking at approximately 600 m, supporting the mid-domain effect. Community structure was differentiated by body size and biomass, with lizards contributing most of the individuals but only 66% of total biomass.

SourceSouth China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalBiological Diversity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 8, 2026

Venus’ atmosphere jumps and waves

Researchers discovered a 'hydraulic jump' causing massive cloud waves on Venus, connected to the planet's superrotation and sulfuric acid vapor. This phenomenon may also impact future Mars missions, with potential implications for planetary exploration.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2026

Toward artificial muscles that bend and twist on demand

Researchers create shape-morphing filaments using rotational multimaterial 3D printing, enabling programmable artificial muscles that bend and twist on demand. The breakthrough could accelerate the development of complex technologies such as soft robotics, energy damping, and biomedical devices.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2026

A new explanation for 'Snowball Earth'

A Harvard study resolves a longstanding climate puzzle by proposing that the Sturtian glaciation could have lasted 56 million years due to oscillating 'snowball' and 'hothouse' conditions. The researchers suggest intense weathering of volcanoes triggered global glaciations, which warmed and retreated over repeated cycles.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2026

Blocking TGF-β signaling may strengthen efficacy of osteoporosis therapy

Researchers identify TGF-β signaling pathway as key regulator of osteoblast quiescence, suggesting its inhibition can aid in reactivation of dormant osteoblasts. Combining TGF-β-blocking antibodies with anti-sclerostin treatment shows promising therapeutic potential for osteoporosis treatment.

SourceEditorial Office of West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University·JournalBone Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2026

Chinese Medical Journal article review explores organoid models in investigational new drug regulation and development

Researchers review organoid-related regulations and progress in IND approval, highlighting the prospects and limitations of organoid models. Organoids are poised to reshape drug research and development with their high clinical relevance, shorter experimental cycles, and lower costs.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 8, 2026

Metformin’s real power may be in the gut

A new Northwestern University study finds metformin primarily targets the gut, driving glucose utilization inside cells lining the intestine to prevent blood sugar levels from rising. The drug slows mitochondrial energy production in gut cells, allowing the intestine to metabolize extra sugar and regulate blood sugar levels.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMay 8, 2026

A study quantifies for the first time in the European population the impact of socioeconomic inequality on temperature-related mortality

A study by ISGlobal reveals that regions with greater socioeconomic inequalities are more affected by cold weather, while areas with higher levels of wealth face a greater risk from high temperatures. The research quantifies the impact of socioeconomic factors on temperature-related mortality across 32 European countries.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalNature Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2026

Understanding Japan’s complex religious landscape

A study published in the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion found that over 40% of Japanese respondents identified as nonreligious or atheist yet still participated in rituals and believed in gods and the afterlife. The researchers highlighted the need for flexible tools to capture diverse forms of religiosity, particularly i...

SourceDoshisha University·JournalJournal for the Scientific Study of Religion·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 8, 2026

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers find diagnostic delays are common for US pediatric patients with malaria

A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers found that over one in four pediatric patients treated for malaria in the US had a delay in diagnosis, leading to more severe infection and longer hospital stays. The study emphasized the need for prompt diagnosis and prevention of imported cases to improve patient outcomes.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 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