Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive May 2026 - Page 47


Page 47 of 48

MIT researchers show how chromatin movement helps control gene expression

Researchers at MIT have found that chromatin can exist in two different categories: constrained and free, which affects its interaction with genes and DNA regulatory sequences. This study provides insight into gene regulation and DNA repair processes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMay 4, 2026

Economic insecurity linked with frailty in later life, study finds

A recent study found that older adults experiencing economic instability, poor housing, and fuel poverty are at a higher risk of physical and mental decline. The research, conducted over 14 years, suggests that living in precarious social circumstances can drive greater exposure to frailty in later life.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalAgeing and Society·DateMay 4, 2026

AI fails to make inroads with cybercriminals, study finds

A study analyzing 100 million posts from underground cybercrime communities found that most cybercriminals lack the skills to use AI effectively, and its adoption has limited benefits for their work. However, AI coding assistants are mostly useful for already skilled actors, and poorly secured agentic AI systems pose a significant risk.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026

Pioneering study confirms the benefits of total hip arthroplasty

A pioneering study by the University of Eastern Finland confirms that total hip arthroplasty leads to better outcomes than conservative treatment for patients with moderate-to-severe hip osteoarthritis. The surgery significantly improved pain, functional capacity, and quality of life compared to conservative treatment alone.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalThe Bone & Joint Journal·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.

New guidelines help long-term care communities support residents’ intimacy and dignity

A new paper outlines a practical framework for supporting residents' sexual health in long-term care, emphasizing autonomy, safety, and person-centered care. The framework establishes a Sexual Health Committee to develop policies and guide staff on sensitive aspects of care.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalAnnals of Long-Term Care Clinical Care and Aging·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 4, 2026

New insight could change how we break down "forever chemicals"

Researchers discover hydrogen radicals play central role in PFAS degradation under high-energy UV light, breaking down molecules into smaller, less persistent compounds. This breakthrough provides a clearer understanding of the underlying mechanism and challenges previous assumptions.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 4, 2026

Singapore researchers advance phage therapy in fight against antimicrobial resistance

Researchers identified how Mycobacterium abscessus evades treatment and proposed a strategy to overcome resistance, offering a pathway towards more effective treatments. A combination therapy targeting both smooth and rough variants proved more effective than single-phage treatment.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

Researchers identify new ways to boost nervous system repair in MS

A doctoral thesis reveals two drug molecules that can initiate the regrowth of a protective layer surrounding neurons, enhancing remyelination and accelerating brain tissue repair. The study also identifies scar tissue as a physical barrier to neural regeneration and demonstrates effective treatment with a second drug molecule.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateMay 4, 2026

How plants rebalance their energy under stress

When proteins become unbalanced, plant cells use a molecular recycling system to break down defective proteins. Central regulators NAC53 and NAC78 adjust this activity in response to stress, activating genes that strengthen protein breakdown while suppressing photosynthesis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental 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.

Tree bark could help clean water and air

Researchers at RMIT University have discovered that eucalyptus bark can be converted into a highly porous form of carbon that traps pollutants, providing a practical solution to clean polluted water and air. The findings highlight the potential of turning waste materials into useful environmental resources.

SourceRMIT University·JournalBiomass and Bioenergy·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

Shedding light on how hydrogen cyanide formed on early Earth

A new chemical pathway has been discovered that can convert amino acids into hydrogen cyanide without requiring methane. Manganese dioxide is the key mineral involved in this reaction, which occurs under a wide range of conditions resembling those of early Earth.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026

For the first time, the direction of neural signals in the brain has been determined non-invasively from neuronal spontaneous activity using functional MRI

For the first time, researchers have identified the direction of neural signals in the brain using functional MRI. The study showed that feedforward and feedback nervous impulses each have unique signatures that can be detected with a new method called uFLARE.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 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.

New Star Wars-like planet candidates with two suns discovered

A team of astronomers using a new method to find planets has detected 27 potential circumbinary planet candidates in double star systems. The findings, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, broaden our understanding of planet formation and evolution in complex environments.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 4, 2026

Space logistics on the right track

A team of researchers at Bielefeld University has developed a precise mathematical approach to plotting routes through space and time. The new method could help make space missions more efficient and also improve transportation systems on Earth.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalINFORMS Journal on Computing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 4, 2026

Breakthrough in magnon research paves the way for mini quantum computers

Physicists at the University of Vienna have successfully extended the lifetime of magnons, tiny waves in magnetization, to a hundredfold, paving the way for mini quantum computers. The discovery reveals that materials science is key to further progress, rather than fundamental physics.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 4, 2026

Cognitive decline and household firearm storage among older adults

Unsecure firearm storage is common among older adults with subjective cognitive decline, despite clinical guidance recommending secure storage for those with cognitive symptoms. The study highlights the need for improved household practices and access to fire safety education.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 4, 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.

Dads are dying after their kids are born, and no one is tracking it

A new Northwestern University study found that 60% of paternal deaths in Georgia between 2017 and 2022 were preventable, resulting from homicide, accidental injury, suicide, or overdose. The study also revealed that fatherhood appears to be protective for men, with lower death rates among those who are fathers.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 4, 2026

Nonprofit hospitals spend billions on management consultants with no clear effect

A new study found that nonprofit hospitals spent at least $7.8 billion on management consulting services between 2010-2022, but saw no significant changes in finances, staffing, operations, or patient outcomes. The study suggests greater transparency and public accountability for how hospitals use tax-subsidized dollars.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 4, 2026

Outer solar system object has an atmosphere but shouldn’t

A team of astronomers found a thin atmosphere around a small trans-Neptunian object (TNO), which is not expected to retain atmospheres due to its cold temperature and weak surface gravity. The atmosphere is thought to be less than 1000 years old, suggesting recent formation or replenishment.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026

I’m concerned about anxiety—what do I need to know?

This article provides an overview of anxiety disorders, including their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. The study found that anxiety disorders can be effectively managed with a combination of therapy and medication.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 4, 2026
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

How plants make copies of themselves – key gene identified in model plant

A research team at Hiroshima University has discovered the key gene GEMMIFER responsible for initiating asexual reproduction in the model plant Marchantia polymorpha. The gene is essential for gemma development, acting as a master switch to start cloning in this plant species.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

Researchers get a better picture of power failures during extreme wind events

A new physics-based simulation framework predicts the likelihood of failure for different transmission tower designs across entire networks with 96% accuracy. The model accounts for various factors, including wind speed and direction, and rainfall intensity, to help power companies identify vulnerable towers and reduce power outage risks.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEngineering Structures·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 4, 2026

Treatment of anxiety for adults in primary care settings

The American Medical Association (AMA) has developed guidelines for treating anxiety disorders in adults in primary care settings. Behavioral therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are recommended treatments.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 4, 2026

Beetles are likely dispersal vectors for “towering” nematodes

Scientists have discovered a previously undescribed nematode species, Caenorhabditis apta, which forms 'towers' that can attach to fruit flies and other insects. The study found that two sap-feeding beetles are likely the primary vectors of this new species, highlighting the importance of understanding how nematodes spread in the wild.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Animal Behavior·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026

Hospital-based shootings in the US, 2000-2024

Hospital-based shootings in the US have increased over 25 years, with large hospitals and urban areas being high-risk settings. The study emphasizes the need for hospital-specific prevention strategies, including weapons screening technology, to address rising firearm violence.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·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.

JMIR news: Diversity under threat as clinical trials face disruptions

Recent shifts in federal policy and funding have impacted hundreds of clinical trials designed to study disease burdens in underrepresented populations. The report highlights a systemic crisis in medical research, citing a disruption at scale that has affected over 74,000 participants across 383 trials.

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 4, 2026

Non-rotating early galaxy is a surprise to astronomers

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope discovered a galaxy that is not rotating, contradicting current theories about galaxy formation. The team believes this galaxy may have been formed after a single collision between two galaxies, making it a rare and unexpected finding.

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

Providing food baskets to people with tuberculosis is cost-effective and could avert over 100,000 deaths annually in India

Researchers found that providing food baskets to households affected by TB can prevent 10,470 years of poor health or early death for every 10,000 patients. The intervention is estimated to be cost-effective, costing $141 per health gain, and could avert approximately 120,000 TB deaths per year nationwide.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateMay 4, 2026

Nir Barzilai, MD, Richard J. Hodes, MD, and Marianna Sadagurski, Ph.D., to receive 2026 Scientific Awards of Distinction from the American Federation for Aging Research

Nir Barzilai, MD, and Richard J. Hodes, MD, will receive the George M. Martin Lifetime Achievement in Mentoring Award and Irving S. Wright Award of Distinction, respectively, for their contributions to aging research. Marianna Sadagurski, PhD, is the recipient of the Vincent Cristofalo Rising Star Award in Aging Research.

SourceAmerican Federation for Aging Research·DateMay 4, 2026
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Two to tango: Study shows dancers’ brains sync up as they move together

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have discovered that experienced ballroom dancers' brains synchronize when they move together. The study used EEG caps and movement sensors to track brain activity and found that neural synchronization increased as dancers moved in sync, revealing a phenomenon called interbrain coupling.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateMay 4, 2026

Hidden math link helps designers build fantastic shapes

Researchers at Princeton University developed a system to mimic natural structures' microstructural patterns and mechanical properties. By combining origami and tensegrity, they found that the same equation describes both engineering structures, enabling designers to create irregular shapes with less computational complexity.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

New study shows cranberry juice may boost UTI antibiotics

A recent study found that cranberry juice enhanced the antibiotic activity of fosfomycin against 72% of uropathogenic E. coli strains, while suppressing resistance-related mutations. The findings suggest that natural compounds in cranberry juice may be a useful frontier in fighting antibiotic resistance.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMay 4, 2026
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

A simple filter swap could advance marine eDNA biomonitoring

Researchers discover that using filters with larger pore sizes significantly improves the recovery of eukaryotic DNA in seawater samples, allowing for more accurate detection of marine life. This breakthrough could enhance the application of environmental DNA analysis in biomonitoring and conservation efforts.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalMetabarcoding and Metagenomics·DateMay 4, 2026

Multi-pronged plan to address childhood obesity crisis

A coordinated 10-year plan to improve long-term wellbeing and reverse child obesity trends is underway. The GenHEART program, spearheaded by Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, targets heart health, diet, exercise, sleep, and more.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·DateMay 4, 2026

Scientists unlock new way to engineer next generation glass

Researchers fine-tune a new type of glass made from metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that efficiently trap gases like CO2 and hydrogen. The discovery provides a new design framework for making customized MOF glasses with tailored properties, enabling applications in gas separation, chemical storage, and advanced coatings.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2026

Renewable energy is more cost effective than direct air capture at reducing carbon, new study finds

A new study published in Communications Sustainability reveals that investing in renewable energy yields more combined climate and public health benefits than direct air capture. The analysis models the health and climate benefit of cost-equivalent deployments of DAC, solar, and onshore wind across US grid regions from 2020 to 2050.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalCommunications Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 4, 2026
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Tulane researchers say Louisiana could lead global climate adaptation efforts

Researchers argue that Louisiana's climate-driven land loss and population shifts could position the state as a global leader in planning for climate adaptation. The study combines coastal geology with archaeology, demography, and public policy to outline a long-term vision for the region.

SourceTulane University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 4, 2026

Astronomers explore the surface composition of a nearby super-earth

The team analyzed LHS 3844 b's infrared radiation, finding it doesn't match Earth-like silicate-rich minerals. Instead, the spectrum suggests a dark, rocky surface composed of basaltic or magmatic minerals, possibly with a recently active geological history.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Astronomy·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026

Novel wheat hybrids increase resistance to major fungal disease by up to 70%

Researchers have identified a novel genetic locus in the common agricultural weed Elymus repens that provides significant resistance to Fusarium Head Blight, a destructive fungal disease threatening global food security. The novel Fhb.Er-1StL locus has been successfully transferred into wheat, reducing diseased plant spikelets by up to...

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 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.

Marker of biological aging linked to cognitive symptoms of depression

Researchers found that accelerated biological aging of a type of white blood cell called monocytes is linked to cognitive and mood-related symptoms of depression. This discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and personalized treatment for depression, particularly in high-risk populations such as women with HIV.

SourceNew York University·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·DateMay 4, 2026

New Canadian recommendations aim to make screening for alcohol misuse easier

The new recommendations provide a practical approach for clinicians to initiate conversations about alcohol use and identify potential problems earlier. The guidelines update offer easy-to-use tables with tips on reducing alcohol use, helping clinicians focus on patients' unique needs while saving time when circumstances allow.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 4, 2026
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

‘Fitspiration’ posts may do more harm than good for young adults – international study, led by Olympian, suggests

A new study suggests that fitspiration content on social media can lead to negative self-esteem, unhealthy dieting, and exercise habits among young adults. Researchers analyzed 26 studies involving 6,111 individuals across seven countries, finding that even brief exposure to idealized images can trigger harmful comparisons.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalHealth Communication·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 4, 2026

Central nervous system a key player in diabetes pain

More than 50% of people with diabetes develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which causes painful sensations like burning, tingling, or shooting pains. The brain and spinal cord can also contribute to pain, as their pain-blocking systems are less effective in people with diabetes.

SourceMurdoch University·JournalJournal of Diabetes·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 3, 2026

NUS scientists unveil a faster way to “train” bacteria for complex tasks, like munching plastics

Researchers at NUS create Lytic Selection and Evolution (LySE) platform, harnessing modified bacteriophage to rapidly create and test genetic changes. After five cycles, plastic degradation improved by over 50%, demonstrating a faster and more controllable method for training bacteria to consume plastics.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2026

Aging well in a digital world

A new study highlights the importance of involving older people in technology design to ensure devices are useful, respectful, and culturally appropriate. Co-design helps build trust and ensures technologies support older people's autonomy and dignity.

SourceFlinders University·JournalDigital Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 3, 2026

KAIST: AI learns to say “I’m not sure” … reducing overconfidence and improving reliability​

A new approach has been proposed to address the problem of overconfidence in AI, enabling it to recognize situations involving unfamiliar or unseen knowledge. By incorporating key principles of brain development, AI can develop the ability to distinguish 'what it knows' from 'what it does not know', a crucial step towards meta-cognition.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 3, 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.

How “digital twins” could help predict the fate of a forest

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a digital twin tool that uses AI and laser mapping to test different management strategies in simulated pine forests. The tool predicts trunk diameter and volume with high accuracy, enabling targeted treatments to minimize waste and bolster financial returns.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Forestry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 3, 2026

Sustained reduction in abdominal fat preserves cognitive function

A long-term MRI study finds that lower accumulation of visceral fat is associated with preservation of key brain structures, better cognitive performance, and slower brain atrophy. The study suggests that glucose control and insulin sensitivity mediate the relationship between abdominal fat and brain aging.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 3, 2026

Non-destructive homogeneity measurement for transparent cylindrical materials without slicing

A new method for measuring homogeneity in transparent cylindrical materials has been developed, allowing for non-destructive inspection without slicing. This approach significantly reduces costs and improves quality control, making it suitable for industries such as semiconductor manufacturing and medical imaging.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateMay 3, 2026

Wafer-level manufactured meta-aspheric lens enables ultracompact wide-FOV near-infrared imaging

A team of scientists developed a wafer-level-manufactured meta-aspheric lens that achieves simultaneous wide field-of-view, ultrathin form factor, and high imaging quality. The design enables compact near-infrared imaging systems with robust performance in eye tracking, blood vessel imaging, and computational pixel super-resolution tasks.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateMay 3, 2026
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New treatment with fewer side effects reduces breast density

A new study from Karolinska Institutet shows that low doses of endoxifen reduce breast density to the same extent as tamoxifen without causing severe side effects. The results suggest a lower dose may be sufficient for therapeutic effect while being better tolerated.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 3, 2026