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Science News Archive October 2026 - Page 12


Page 12 of 50

Machine learning cracks the genetic code of a 5,000-year-old medicinal herb

A team of researchers has assembled a chromosome-level genome of a newly developed elite cultivar of Coptis chinensis and deployed a machine-learning model to uncover hidden patterns of genetic variation. The work identifies a key gene that regulates leaf wax production and disease resistance, opening a pathway for molecular breeding i...

Philanthropist and financial services leader Marc O. Mayer receives honorary doctorate from Hebrew University

Marc O. Mayer, a dedicated supporter of Hebrew University, received an honorary doctorate for his outstanding career in financial services and leadership roles. He has held positions at various institutions, including the University's Board of Governors and Executive Committee, as well as American Friends of the Hebrew University.

Topology-guided AI overcomes the "abundance paradox" in gut microbiome-based type 2 diabetes classification

A new AI framework, DS-GAT-CP, overcomes the 'abundance paradox' in gut microbiome-based type 2 diabetes classification by capturing conserved ecological patterns. The framework consistently outperforms conventional machine learning algorithms in cross-regional and cross-population validation scenarios.

SourceInternational Society for Health Data Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 25, 2026

Fractional calculus reveals BKT-like scaling in one dimension

Researchers used fractional calculus to create a one-dimensional model with nonlocal interactions, displaying correlation scaling similar to the two-dimensional BKT transition. However, the model lacks a conventional stiffness jump, exhibiting an unusual combination of analogy and difference in response to a global phase twist.

SourceKochi University of Technology·JournalMathematics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 25, 2026

Greenwashing fears may drive up the cost of climate finance

Researchers investigate Japan's first climate transition bonds, finding that investors demand higher returns due to uncertainty about environmental improvements. The study highlights the importance of clear transition plans and transparent reporting to strengthen investor confidence and reduce financing costs.

SourceSaitama University·JournalInternational Review of Economics & Finance·DateOct 25, 2026

Smithsonian scientists create most detailed simulation yet of the early universe

Researchers at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian have developed Lumina, the largest and most detailed simulation ever created of the early universe. The simulation recreates how ordinary matter, dark matter and radiation interacted during the universe's first 2 billion years, giving scientists a powerful new tool ...

SourceSmithsonian·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 25, 2026

Airborne ESKAPE pathogens at inner-city clinic resist advanced antibiotics

Researchers at the University of Johannesburg found that airborne ESKAPE bacteria can survive exposure to first-line and last-resort antibiotics, making them highly resistant to treatment. The study's findings highlight the need for improved infection control measures in high-risk areas, where HIV and TB infection rates are high.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalIndoor Air·TypeObservational study·DateOct 25, 2026

Treatment revives old liver cells in lab study, may help prevent Alzheimer’s and heart disease

A Keck School of Medicine of USC research study found that an experimental drug called cinaciguat reverses the effects of aging in the liver, potentially lowering the risk of Alzheimer's disease and heart disease. The treatment also normalizes amyloid beta and LDL levels, which are associated with Alzheimer's and atherosclerosis.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2026

Phase 2 BESTOW trial generates promising kidney function and quality of life results for tegoprubart versus tacrolimus immunosuppression in kidney transplant recipients

The Phase 2 BESTOW trial shows that tegoprubart preserves kidney function and improves quality of life in kidney transplant recipients. Tegoprubart-treated patients had greater kidney function benefits and improved health-related quality of life compared to tacrolimus-treated patients.

Suicide attempts, ideation spiked significantly among older U.S. adults after COVID-19 pandemic

A significant spike in suicidal thoughts, planning, and attempts among older US adults was found in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic. The study's findings suggest that traditional risk factors may not be the only factors at play, and that a broader risk assessment approach is needed to identify older adults at risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 23, 2026

New statewide lidar study identifies hotspots for California coastal cliff retreat

Researchers at UC San Diego used new airborne lidar to map cliff erosion and retreat, finding that change was highly uneven along the California coast. Hotspots were identified in Central and Northern California, with some areas experiencing retreat rates exceeding 70 feet per year.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInternational Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation·DateOct 23, 2026

From sea anemone to human fertility: A new research organism for understanding meiosis

The study found that Nematostella carries eight of the ten proteins humans use to pair and align meiotic chromosomes, making it a promising system for understanding human fertility. The sea anemone's proteins show unexpected flexibility in their roles, revealing new insights into meiosis and its potential impact on fertility.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2026

Scientists find key to predicting El Niño 12 months ahead

Researchers at the University of Melbourne found that knowing the Pacific Ocean's state at the beginning of a forecast can provide valuable clues about a forecast's reliability one year later. Forecasts initiated during La Niña conditions consistently performed well, while those starting from neutral conditions were less reliable.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 23, 2026

Penn Engineers turn everyday Mylar into a promising insulator for the moon

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a novel insulator using stacked Mylar sheets, which combine strong thermal insulation with mechanical durability. The material, called hybrid layered insulating film stacks, has been tested in a vacuum and shown to maintain its thermal performance under compressive stress.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2026

Still at school—and already first author

Farell Keiser, a high school student, published a paper in Physical Review B as the first author, showcasing his substantial contribution to the field of terahertz research. His work focused on zinc telluride and demonstrated a more accurate physical description of terahertz generation in the material.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalPhysical Review B·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2026

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine ahead-of-print tip sheet: Oct. 23, 2026

Researchers evaluated PET imaging with radiolabeled trastuzumab deruxtecan and targeted alpha therapy against HER2-positive cancer cells, revealing promising results in tracking therapy accumulation and suppressing tumor growth. PET imaging also linked metabolic patterns to pancreatic tumor outcomes and identified potential distant met...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateOct 23, 2026

AI breast cancer survival model built by University of Cincinnati Cancer Center team could provide improved accuracy and more personalized care

A new AI model, developed by the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, aims to improve breast cancer survival prediction by combining statistical methods and deep learning. The model analyzes clinical and genetic data to provide more personalized care decisions for each patient.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Statistical Theory and Practice·DateOct 23, 2026

Mechanism behind PARP1-mediated DNA repair characterized for first time

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital uncovered a mechanism behind PARP1-mediated DNA repair, revealing a previously undescribed role of the enzyme in chromatin remodeling. This discovery has implications for cancer treatment, as it may provide a way to target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2026

COP17: Chilean researchers urge accelerated action for biodiversity at a critical moment for its conservation

Chilean researchers are calling for accelerated action to address the biodiversity crisis, emphasizing the need for resources, international cooperation, and scientific tools to implement global commitments. The Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity is highlighting the importance of conservation financing and scientific validation to e...

Operation Soteria driving cultural change in police investigations into rape, but progress stalls as cases reach court

A new study examines the impact of Operation Soteria on rape and serious sexual offence cases, finding progress in victim-centred investigations but challenges in the court system. The report highlights the need for a whole-system approach to tackle rape and serious violence, ensuring swift, fair, and responsive justice for victims.

Mental health disparities persist for LGBTQ+ college students nationwide, largest study of its kind finds

A national study of 18,000 LGBTQ+ college students found that those experiencing discrimination are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. The study highlights the need for colleges to address discrimination as part of comprehensive suicide prevention efforts.