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Science News Archive May 2026 - Page 46


Page 46 of 48

A toy model to understand how AI learns

Researchers have developed a simplified mathematical model of learning in neural networks, shedding new light on how these systems produce their responses. The toy model, inspired by physics principles, captures key features of complex systems and offers insights into the surprising efficiency and stability of modern AI systems.

SourceSissa Medialab·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 5, 2026

‘They weren’t burned by accident’: burned stone, child’s bones, and lost jewelry could reveal prehistoric mining camp high in the Pyrenees

Archaeologists uncover evidence of ancient copper smelting in a mountain cave, spanning over 2,000 years. Human remains and lost jewelry suggest the site may have been a burial ground, while fire played a deliberate role in processing the green mineral fragments.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Archaeology·TypeObservational study·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.

Eco-friendly solutions for recovery of critical raw materials from permanent magnets

Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä have developed an eco-friendly solid-phase extraction process to recover critical raw materials from NdFeB magnets. The method uses organic methanesulfonic acid, achieving a high recovery rate of over 96% and purity of over 99%.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

Seaweed integration boosts efficiency and cuts waste in aquaculture, study finds

Researchers found that cultivating seaweed species alongside marine finfish can significantly reduce key waste products from fish farming. The study provides guidance for aquaculture producers to incorporate seaweed into existing and prospective integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalAquaculture International·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

Online autism diagnoses found to be effective

A new telehealth tool developed by UCR professor Katherine Meltzoff expands access to autism diagnoses for older children with more verbal speech. The study showed promising results in matching the accuracy of traditional in-person evaluations, offering a potential solution to long-standing barriers.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A critical Atlantic Ocean current shows two-decade slowdown, study finds

A two-decade slowdown of a critical Atlantic Ocean current has been found, potentially reshaping weather patterns across the globe. The weakening Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) may lead to more extreme storms, changes in rainfall, and colder winters in some regions.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026

Safeguarding children in childcare: teacher confidence key to addressing trauma

A study by Adelaide University researchers found that teacher self-efficacy is critical in creating safe learning environments for young children experiencing trauma. Early years teachers play a vital role in supporting children's wellbeing and helping to break cycles of disadvantage.

SourceAdelaide University·JournalThe Australian Educational Researcher·TypeCase study·DateMay 4, 2026

Why are mountain forests in Mexico and Central America hotspots for oak trees? New study led by The Morton Arboretum shows most definitive answer yet

A new study by The Morton Arboretum reveals that oaks rapidly diversified in the Americas when they encountered high-elevation terrain, forming a unique biodiversity hotspot. This is supported by data from 322 of the world's approximately 450 oak species, with Mexico and Central America home to at least 160 different oaks.

SourceThe Morton Arboretum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2026

Gerald Joyce elected to American Philosophical Society

Gerald Joyce's election to the American Philosophical Society honors his pioneering work in directed evolution and foundational questions about life and molecules. He has made significant contributions to cancer, asthma, and skin diseases through his research on DNA enzymes.

SourceSalk Institute·DateMay 4, 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.

Minor federal fines offer little deterrence to insurers for Medicare Advantage violations, study finds

Researchers analyzed 13 years of federal data on Medicare Advantage enforcement actions, finding that CMS rarely used severe tools like contract terminations or suspensions. Instead, they relied on small fines, which may do little to change behavior and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

SourceBrown University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 4, 2026

Plants walk a fine line between growth and defense

Researchers discovered that plants use a surprising multi-layered system to regulate salicylic acid levels and keep their immune system in check. This system involves enzymes that break down the hormone, which are then flagged for elimination, limiting how much salicylic acid they can destroy.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

Engineers track eye movements to advance student simulation training, enhance clinical preparedness in Meridian

Researchers are using eye-tracking technology at MSU-Meridian to study how students process and respond in high-pressure training scenarios, helping design the next generation of medical training tools. The project aims to identify key gaps in student performance and improve clinical outcomes by comparing data with clinical professionals.

SourceMississippi State University·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 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.

Can dopamine bend time to shape memory?

Researchers found that dopamine signaling at event boundaries can distort time perception, making memories of distinct events feel more separate. This process allows the brain to construct a more organized format for memory retrieval.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 4, 2026

Jonathan H. Whiteson, MD, named chair of NYU Langone Health’s Rusk Rehabilitation

Dr. Jonathan H. Whiteson has been appointed as the new chair of Rusk Rehabilitation at NYU Langone Health, aiming to enhance rehabilitation care and services across the institution. He plans to focus on growth in oncology rehabilitation, frailty prevention, healthy aging, and emerging technologies like AI and remote patient monitoring.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·DateMay 4, 2026

Inexpensive material compresses light, paving the way for photonic microcircuits in the terahertz range

Researchers developed a new photonic material using lead iodide, enabling high-speed data transmission in the terahertz frequency range. The material confines light within submicrometer regions, paving the way for integrated photonic circuits that could replace or complement electronic circuits.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 4, 2026
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Lower volume bowel preparation as effective and safe as higher volume regimen for inpatient colonoscopy

A randomized controlled trial found that a 1 L PEG-ascorbate regimen provided effective and high-quality bowel cleansing, while being associated with a greater willingness to repeat the regimen compared to 2 L and 4 L PEG regimens. The findings support adopting a low-volume regimen to improve completion rates and patient tolerability.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMay 4, 2026

It’s complicated: New research reveals more about the social networks of baboons and African monkeys

A new study provides groundbreaking information about the social structures of primates, revealing that single-level societies are more like soccer leagues with exclusive teams competing for resources. Multi-level societies, on the other hand, resemble schools with students divided into classes but interacting regularly.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2026

New AI model reads DNA sequences to reconstruct ancestry

The new AI model uses genetic mutation patterns to trace ancestral relationships between species, including humans and mosquitoes. The tool can predict when gene pairs last shared a common ancestor and is faster than traditional statistical methods.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 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.

Why risk perception matters for quitting smoking

A recent study found that risk perceptions of e-cigarettes rose sharply during and after the EVALI outbreak, lingering even after scientists identified the cause. This shift in perception was more pronounced among non-white participants, potentially exacerbating existing health disparities.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalAddictive Behaviors·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026

Sharks may help improve climate forecasts, study finds

A new study demonstrates that animal-borne sensors, such as those on tagged sharks, can enhance ocean forecast accuracy in regions with limited observational data. By incorporating shark-collected temperature and depth data into a seasonal climate model, forecast errors decreased substantially, particularly in coastal and shelf regions.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

Study finds major gaps in dementia care across Mississippi

A new study by University of Mississippi researchers finds significant shortages in adult day services across the state, leaving thousands without daily support. The state would need an additional 910 centers to meet demand, with funding being a primary cause of shortages.

SourceUniversity of Mississippi·JournalJournal of Applied Gerontology·DateMay 4, 2026

Cannabis microdosing more common than psychedelics among US adults, national survey finds

A national survey found that millions of US adults have microdosed substances like cannabis, psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA, with cannabis being the most commonly microdosed. The study also revealed patterns tied to mental health and policy environments, suggesting that changes in drug policy may influence access to these substances.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 4, 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.

Here’s why your face doesn’t perceive itchiness the same way your body does

A new study reveals that facial itch sensations differ from those on the body due to distinct trigeminal and spinal pain pathways. The researchers found a functional divergence in neuropeptide signaling and central circuit engagement between the two systems, which was independent of peripheral innervation density.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

The GLP-1 paradox: Rice study finds weight loss drugs may carry unexpected stigma

A new study from Rice University finds that using GLP-1 medications can lead to social judgment, even among those who have lost significant weight. Participants rated individuals who used GLP-1 more negatively than those who lost weight through diet and exercise or did not lose weight at all.

SourceRice University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 4, 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.

Research aims to identify underlying causes for linked mental-health issues

A study by Kelsie Forbush and colleagues used Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology to better understand how psychological conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder are connected. The findings suggest that HiTOP's symptom dimensions may support more precise, personalized mental health care.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·DateMay 4, 2026

No digital content is safe from generative AI, researchers say

Researchers discovered that simple artificial intelligence tools can bypass security techniques meant to protect authentic content from use in deepfakes and facial identity theft. The study found that attackers can easily defeat existing image protection using off-the-shelf AI models and simple commands.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateMay 4, 2026
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Grant backs early-career research on metabolism and food choices

A National Institutes of Health grant supports Mary Elizabeth Baugh's research into how metabolic health influences brain systems that shape eating behaviors. The study aims to understand the interactions between metabolic signals and brain circuits engaged in everyday learning and eating behavior.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateMay 4, 2026

Moderate UV light is best to boost the vitamin D content of edible mushrooms, McGill study finds

Researchers at McGill University found that moderate UV light exposure enhances vitamin D₂ levels in edible mushrooms without compromising quality attributes. The study provides standardized guidance for industry to follow, highlighting a clear gap in species-specific and unified UV treatment guidelines.

SourceMcGill University·JournalFood Research International·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 4, 2026

Climate change increases spillover risk of rodent-borne arenaviruses

A new study projects that climate change will drive rodent-borne arenaviruses into new regions of South America, posing a future threat to millions of people. The researchers built an interactive platform to understand the complex relationships between climate, land use, and human exposure.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·Journalnpj Viruses·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 4, 2026

Medical information provided to AI is often incomplete

A recent study found that people provide less detailed medical information when communicating with AI chatbots compared to human doctors. This lack of detail can result in incorrect medical advice and lower the quality of diagnosis. The study suggests that intelligent design of user interfaces and actively requesting missing details ma...

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 4, 2026
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Brown fat could help protect against cardiovascular disease in obesity

Researchers discovered brown adipose tissue protects against atherosclerosis and inflammation in humans with obesity, showing lower arterial inflammation and healthier blood profiles. Higher brown fat activity correlates with reduced vascular inflammation and improved cardiovascular health.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalArteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology·DateMay 4, 2026

Two NYU Faculty Elected to National Academy of Sciences

Andrea H. Brand, a NYU Grossman School of Medicine professor, was elected for her research on nervous system development and gene regulation. Eero P. Simoncelli, a Center for Neural Science director, was recognized for his work on brain representation and sensory processing in humans and machines.

SourceNew York University·DateMay 4, 2026

Maintaining a healthy heart may require regular doses of positivity

A recent study found that positive psychology interventions such as mindfulness and gratitude journaling can consistently improve blood pressure and inflammation markers within weeks. The researchers suggested that ongoing reinforcements are necessary to stay on course for long-term benefits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCardiology Clinics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 4, 2026

AI falls short in predicting weather extremes

Researchers from UNIGE and KIT found that traditional numerical models remain more reliable for predicting extreme phenomena than AI-based forecasts. The study highlights the limitations of AI weather models in extrapolating beyond their training domain, making them less effective for record-breaking events.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateMay 4, 2026

New study gives voice to older homeless women navigating streets and shelters

A new study by Boston University School of Social Work highlights the daily struggles faced by older homeless women, including managing health conditions and fighting to maintain dignity in dehumanizing shelter environments. The research found that these women often experience accelerated aging due to poor nutrition and harsh living co...

SourceBoston University·JournalFrontiers·TypeSurvey·DateMay 4, 2026
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Researchers find potential one-two punch against triple-negative breast cancer

A study published in Cell Reports Medicine found that inhibiting RNase H2 can cause significant damage to DNA and activate the innate immune system to produce signals that attract T cells to attack the tumor. This approach could lead to improved patient outcomes for patients with triple-negative breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMay 4, 2026

HSP90B1 promotes radiotherapy resistance in glioma

A study found that HSP90B1 upregulates in gliomas and correlates with poor prognosis and tumor malignancy. It enhances tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion while protecting cells from radiotherapy-induced apoptosis by modulating DNA damage repair factors.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateMay 4, 2026

ALK mutation: A predictive biomarker for pan-cancer immunotherapy

A new study reveals that ALK mutations enhance tumor immunogenicity and predict favorable outcomes in immune checkpoint blockade. The presence of ALK mutations is an independent favorable predictor of overall survival, decreasing the risk of patient death by 31%.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateMay 4, 2026
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine Ahead-of-Print Tip Sheet: May 4, 2026

Recent research published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine has made significant advancements in brain imaging and cancer treatment. A new wearable brain imaging system, SmartBrain, enables real-time imaging beyond the lab, capturing high-resolution images of brain activity without requiring patients to remain still.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMay 4, 2026

Study finds benefits in being older college student while working

A new study from the University of Kansas reveals that older college students who work full-time while studying tend to have higher graduation rates and better retention. The research, which analyzed over 7,000 post-traditional students, found that being older and working full-time positively predicted six-year graduation rates, while ...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalThe Journal of Continuing Higher Education·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 4, 2026

First psychiatric admission marks the beginning of a long-term illness for most patients

A 20-year follow-up study by the University of Copenhagen reveals that nearly all patients who initially admitted to hospital psychiatry returned, with significant consequences on their education, family life, and health. The researchers emphasize the importance of early and comprehensive assessments to provide better support and preve...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalEuropean Psychiatry·DateMay 4, 2026

How do rats determine whether to approach or avoid distressed peers?

Researchers identified a key brain pathway in rats that helps them decide whether to approach stressed pups or avoid stressed adult peers. The insular cortex and prefrontal cortex work together to process social information, with the pathway playing a crucial role in making these decisions.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·DateMay 4, 2026
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.