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Science News Archive May 2026 - Page 45


Page 45 of 48

How Big Tech’s new health AI assistants are redefining care

The rise of consumer-facing health AI assistants is transforming healthcare access, offering users personalized medical workspaces and real-time lab result interpretation. However, concerns around data privacy and the risk of misdiagnosis highlight the need for caution in this rapidly evolving landscape.

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 5, 2026

Yanghe Decoction inhibits osteosarcoma progression

This study reveals Yanghe Decoction's anti-tumor effects on osteosarcoma cells by modulating the PI3K/AKT and p38 MAPK pathways, inducing ROS-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction. YHD also inhibits tumor growth and metastasis in orthotopic OS mouse models.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateMay 5, 2026

TGen, City of Hope study surveys dysfunctional gene splicing in metastatic kidney disease

A study by TGen and City of Hope found a significant correlation between tumor splicing burden and clinical response to treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Patients with high splicing burden showed signs of robust immune activation, suggesting the body may be primed to attack cancer cells.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2026
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Are icebergs less prone to melting in clusters?

Researchers studied how meltwater from one iceberg impacts its neighbor's melting rate. They found that the gap between icebergs determines their final shape and melt rate., Iceberg clusters may be less prone to melting than isolated icebergs due to the protective effect of meltwater.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMay 5, 2026

New €2.5 million project seeks to demystify debilitating inherited conditions and pinpoint new treatment options

A new €2.5 million project aims to better understand why people with inherited mitochondrial disorders are more vulnerable to severe infections, which can cause profound neurological impairment and a range of other complications. The project will investigate how harmful mutations in mitochondrial DNA alter the behavior of immune cells.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·DateMay 5, 2026

A new artificial intelligence tool that can generate millions of new molecules

Researchers from Universitat Rovira i Virgili developed an AI tool called CoCoGraph that can generate realistic molecules complying with chemistry laws. The system uses a diffusion model to create plausible structures, resulting in 100% chemically valid molecules, and has been found to be more realistic than other state-of-the-art models.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 5, 2026

One dose of psilocybin changes the human brain

Researchers found that psilocybin causes temporary shifts in brain entropy, leading to increased insight and emotional self-awareness. This correlates with improved well-being and cognitive flexibility, suggesting the psychedelic trip is key to its therapeutic effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Potatoes may have shaped genetic makeup of Indigenous Andeans

A new study found that natural selection favored Indigenous Andeans with high numbers of salivary amylase genes, leading to a higher frequency of these genes in the population. This suggests that potatoes played a crucial role in shaping the genetic makeup of this population.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 5, 2026

AI model analyses body composition to predict health risks

A study published in Radiology used AI to analyze whole-body MRI scans from over 66,000 participants, revealing that skeletal muscle quality is a strong predictor of diabetes, major cardiovascular events, and mortality. The researchers also found that high visceral fat and low skeletal muscle were associated with increased risks of the...

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 5, 2026

Mapping cancerous tissue with a hand-held probe

Researchers developed a hand-held device to differentiate tumors from healthy tissue using mechanical properties, reducing the need for future surgeries and delayed treatments. The wireless probe can aid surgeons in precise tumor removal during breast-conserving surgery.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateMay 5, 2026

CityUHK physicist leads study revealing that magnetic fields can “revive” superconductivity in nickelates

A research team led by Professor Denver Li Danfeng has discovered a magnetic-field-induced 're-entrant' superconductivity phenomenon in infinite-layer nickelate superconductors. This finding challenges the conventional understanding that magnetic fields suppress superconductivity and opens up new directions for exploring unconventional...

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 5, 2026
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Quantum algorithms for improving surface coatings

Researchers develop quantum algorithms to simulate polymer degradation caused by UV radiation, using industrially relevant aircraft coatings as an example. The goal is to optimize surface coatings for various industries, improving safety and reducing costs.

SourceFraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics·DateMay 5, 2026

Indigenous Andeans have a digestive superpower; researchers think it may be linked to potatoes

Indigenous people of the Andes have a genetic adaptation that allows them to digest starch more effectively due to their history of potato cultivation. Those with higher numbers of salivary amylase genes had an evolutionary advantage, resulting in an average of 10 copies of the gene in modern-day Peruvian Andeans.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2026

Isolated human groups speak more diverse languages

A global study finds that regions with long-term isolation exhibit greater linguistic diversity despite lower genetic diversity. This dynamic helps preserve a wider range of language structures and grammar organization.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 5, 2026

Hidden muscle fat poses danger to heart, metabolism

Researchers used MRI to analyze muscle composition in 11,348 participants and found that higher intermuscular fat and lower muscle mass were associated with increased cardiometabolic risk factors. Lean muscle mass was only protective against these risks in men, while women's muscle mass declined after age 40.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 5, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Board interpersonal diversity linked to lower tax avoidance

Research shows that diverse boards with members from various backgrounds bring new perspectives, strengthen oversight, and reduce aggressive tax avoidance. This leads to more questioning, debate, and closer scrutiny of management decisions, ultimately resulting in more responsible tax behavior.

SourceUniversity of East London·JournalInternational Journal of Finance & Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 5, 2026

Profit alone is a poor measure of success, study shows companies can look efficient while harming the planet

A new study from the University of Surrey shows that firms celebrated for strong financial performance may actually be inefficient when environmental impact is included. The research developed a new way to measure sustainable corporate efficiency, combining traditional financial metrics with environmental data.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEuropean Journal of Operational Research·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 2026

Unified framework for the full hierarchy of topological boundary states in Floquet crystals

Researchers developed a unified topological framework to characterize complex boundary states in Floquet crystals, predicting the existence and type of various topological boundary states. The framework uses three complementary one-dimensional winding numbers to unify the description of multiple boundary orders.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2026
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Workforce and staffing at 988 suicide & crisis lifeline centers

The study found that most 988 Lifeline centers struggle to find resources for full-time staffing, posing risks to staff well-being and service quality. Critical financing and operational strategies will be needed to support recruitment and retention to sustain high-quality 988 Lifeline services.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 5, 2026

Distinct metabolic signature found in HFpEF

Researchers identified a unique metabolic fingerprint in the hearts of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and obesity. The study reveals disrupted glucose metabolism and accumulated metabolic products, which are linked to structural changes in the heart and disease severity.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2026

Outcomes associated with hospital at home vs traditional inpatient stay

A retrospective study found lower in-hospital mortality and emergency department use within 30 days of discharge for Medicare beneficiaries undergoing hospital at home compared to traditional inpatient care. However, hospital readmissions within 30 days showed no significant difference between the two approaches.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 5, 2026
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Understanding how lasers can rapidly magnetize fusion plasmas

High-powered lasers can vaporize a solid target, creating plasma that rapidly expands and generates strong magnetic fields. The team derived a simple threshold criterion to predict plasma magnetization for given laser and target parameters.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 5, 2026

Mount Sinai Health System Chair of Pediatrics receives ASPN Founders’ Award for Lifetime Achievement in Pediatric Nephrology

Dr. Lisa M. Satlin, a renowned pediatrician-scientist, has been awarded the ASPN Founders' Award for her lifetime contributions to pediatric nephrology through research, education, and clinical care. She has advanced understanding of kidney function and development, with significant implications for hypertension and kidney disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateMay 5, 2026

Creative assessments address inequalities in students’ performance

A University of East London study found that creative, practice-based assessments improved engagement and eliminated disparities in attainment linked to ethnicity. Students from minoritised backgrounds achieved high pass rates and degrees with traditional exams replaced by authentic assessments.

SourceUniversity of East London·DateMay 5, 2026
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Political breakups of friendships, relationships, and family ties

A recent study found that over 37% of Americans have experienced a political breakup with friends, family members, or romantic partners. The research highlights the negative consequences of political polarization on interpersonal relationships and individual well-being.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 5, 2026

Genomic Press launches Brain Health, a new peer-reviewed journal of lifelong brain resilience, with inaugural interview featuring Luísa Pinto on glial plasticity

Genomic Press launches Brain Health, a new peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the science of lifelong brain resilience, featuring research on glial plasticity and recovery from depression. The inaugural issue explores the intersection of fields including cognitive reserve, sleep, aging biology, nutritional psychiatry, and social sciences.

SourceGenomic Press·DateMay 5, 2026
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Ultrasensitive test detects biomarkers for specific form of dementia

Researchers at Mass General Brigham developed an ultrasensitive test to detect abnormal clumps of TDP-43 protein in cerebrospinal fluid, a biomarker for specific form of dementia called FTLD-TDP. The test shows promise in diagnosing patients with the correct pathology and tracking disease progression.

SourceMass General Brigham·DateMay 5, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Study finds bariatric surgery less costly than GLP-1 drugs over time

A real-world analysis of over 90,000 patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes reveals that metabolic and bariatric surgery is the more affordable treatment option compared to GLP-1 drugs. Total costs for GLP-1 therapy were $17,000 more than sleeve gastrectomy and $7,200 more than gastric bypass after two years.

SourceAmerican Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery·DateMay 5, 2026
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Reading genetic activity from living cells without destroying them

Researchers at TUM develop NTVE, a process that uses virus-like particles to shuttle messenger RNA out of living cells, allowing for repeated sampling and analysis. This enables precise monitoring of stem cell development and potential applications in cell therapies and tumor research.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2026
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New ‘Ecclesiastical’ Moth named after Pope Leo XIV

A new species of moth, Pyralis papaleonei, has been discovered in the White Mountains of Crete, Greece, showcasing its striking purple forewings and orange-golden patch. The discovery underscores the urgent need to protect sensitive habitats and highlights the importance of scientific research in biodiversity conservation.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNota Lepidopterologica·DateMay 5, 2026

Updated alcohol warning labels may prompt people to cut back: Study

A new study found that updated alcohol warning labels, including those highlighting cancer risk, can better motivate consumers to cut back on drinking. The study used a nationally representative sample of adults and found that the new labels outperformed the current U.S. warning label in encouraging participants to drink less.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeSurvey·DateMay 5, 2026
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

The boy on the balcony who never came outside

Dr. Dilek Colak's journey began with a childhood observation of a boy with mental illness, which inspired her to pursue a career in neuroscience. Her current work focuses on understanding autism and schizophrenia through the study of human brain organoids.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalGenomic Psychiatry·TypeNews article·DateMay 5, 2026

Above 2,000 meters: Cova 338 redefines Pyrenean prehistory

Researchers uncover evidence of recurrent high-mountain occupation and systematic exploitation of copper-rich minerals in Cova 338. The site provides new insights into the role of high mountain environments in Pyrenean prehistoric societies.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Archaeology·DateMay 5, 2026