Science News

Aug. 16, 2025: Our weekly roundup of the latest science in the news, as well as a few fascinating articles to keep you entertained over the weekend.

Scientists in Finland have measured the heaviest known nucleus to undergo proton emission, discovering the rare isotope 188-astatine. It exhibits a unique shape and may reveal a new kind of nuclear interaction.

Researchers have unveiled a new quantum material that could make quantum computers much more stable by using magnetism to protect delicate qubits from environmental disturbances. Unlike traditional approaches that rely o...

When mathematicians revived ignored mathematical structures, they found that overlooked particles, called "neglectons," could complete the quantum computing puzzle.

A new study reveals that tolcapone, a dopamine-enhancing drug, strengthens brain circuits involved in self-control while reducing alcohol intake in people with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The drug boosts activity in the ...

A large-scale meta-analysis of 33 studies has shown that highly sensitive individuals are more prone to common mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and avoidant personality disorder. Sensitivity w...

Abrupt policy changes and confusing public messaging have injected confusion in back-to-school vaccine protocols.

These are the best smart rings you can buy in every category, from Oura Ring Gen 4 and Ultrahuman Ring AIR to Amazfit Helio.

Every week, we scour the web for important, insightful, and fascinating stories in science and technology. Here are our latest picks. The post This Weeks Awesome Tech Stories From Around the Web (Through August 16) appea...

A new study using SAPAP3 knockout mice sheds light on the brain mechanisms that may drive trichotillomania, or hair-pulling disorder. These mice displayed compulsive grooming, heightened aggression, and stress-sensitive ...

Meteorite diamonds, which could be 58% harder than ordinary diamonds, have finally been made in the lab.

Once on the brink during the last ice age, great white sharks made a remarkable recovery globally, but their DNA reveals a baffling story. Classic migration explanations fail, leaving scientists with a mystery that defie...

A large real-world study of 236 young adults found that caffeine significantly boosts positive emotions, particularly in the morning. Participants who had coffee or another caffeinated drink reported feeling happier and ...

Modern humans emerged roughly 300,000 years ago, but our genus Homo is much older. So what's the oldest human species on record?

Topological spin textures, spatially organized patterns linked to the intrinsic angular momentum of particles, have proved to be highly advantageous for the development of spintronics and quantum technologies. One of the...

Mediterranean bryozoans, including the false coral, are showing alarming changes in structure and microbiomes under acidification and warming. Field studies at volcanic CO vents reveal that these stressors combined sharp...

A groundbreaking study has found that a simple change in walking style can ease osteoarthritis pain as effectively as medication-without the side effects. By adjusting foot angle, participants reduced knee stress, slowed...

Researchers at Rice University and collaborating institutions have discovered direct evidence of active flat electronic bands in a kagome superconductor. This breakthrough could pave the way for new methods to design qua...

Chemical evidence from a stalagmite in Mexico has revealed that the Classic Maya civilizations decline coincided with repeated severe wet-season droughts, including one that lasted 13 years. These prolonged droughts corr...