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Science News Archive 2026 - Page 476


Page 476 of 519

Mid-infrared InAs/InP quantum-dot lasers: opening a new era for mid-infrared light sources

Researchers have successfully demonstrated the first InAs/InP quantum-dot laser in the mid-infrared 2 μm band, achieving a low threshold current density of 118 A/cm² at room temperature. The device's precise control strategy and high-density, uniform quantum-dot ensemble enable high-performance devices on heterogeneous platforms.

Vaping zebrafish suggest E-cigarette exposure disrupts gut microbial networks and neurobehavior

A study published in Science of The Total Environment found that e-cigarette exposure alters gut microbiota composition and affects neurobehavior in zebrafish. The researchers observed disruptions in the gut microbiome, with reduced microbial network stability and altered community composition, suggesting potential health risks.

SourceKyushu University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

A global strategy is needed to reduce ozone levels

A global strategy is required to address the issue of reduced ozone decline despite decreased emissions of precursor pollutants in North America and Europe. The study found that increased transport of ozone from abroad is the main driver of the weaker-than-expected decline of ozone levels.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2026

Atomic spins set quantum fluid in motion

A team of researchers has observed the Einstein–de Haas effect in a Bose–Einstein condensate, demonstrating the transfer of angular momentum from atomic spins to fluid motion. This finding highlights the conservation of angular momentum between microscopic spin and macroscopic mechanical rotation in the quantum world.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

How topological surfaces boost clean energy catalysts

Researchers discovered that topological surface states can survive and be optimized by electrochemical reconstruction, leading to near-peak ORR activity. The study reveals the importance of considering quantum topology and electrochemical surface chemistry together for next-generation electrocatalysts.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 29, 2026

HKUST develops breakthrough high‑efficiency, low‑cost wastewater treatment technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology developed a mesh bioreactor with ultrasound-induced transient cavitation, increasing flux 10-20 times conventional membrane bioreactors while reducing energy consumption and cost. The technology meets discharge standards in approximately 75% of the global population.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Water·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Phytic acid–driven structural engineering unlocks high-performance lignin-based carbon aerogel supercapacitors

Researchers developed a synergistic structure-doping regulation strategy for lignin-based carbon aerogels using phytic acid, promoting uniform spherical hierarchical structures and dual phosphorus-sulfur doping. This approach achieves high-performance supercapacitors with superior power density and energy storage capabilities.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription

Scientists have identified a previously unknown molecular mechanism for initiating gene transcription in cells under stress. Using cryogenic electron microscopy, they observed how dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules bind to RNA polymerase, enabling the formation of alternative caps that protect cellular RNA.

Fossilized plankton study gives long-term hope for oxygen depleted oceans

Researchers found fossilized plankton suggest a possible long-term recovery from oxygen-depleted oceans despite climate warming. The study, published in Communications Earth & Environment, examined fossilized plankton from the Arabian Sea and found higher oxygen levels during the Miocene Climatic Optimum (MCO) compared to today.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 29, 2026

Reducing drug deaths from novel psychoactive substances relies on foreign legislation, but here’s how it can be tackled closer to home

The UK's response to NPS deaths highlights the importance of international cooperation and domestic legislation in reducing harm. Effective controls implemented in producing countries, such as China, were associated with larger reductions in NPS detections than controls introduced solely within consuming countries.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2026

AI and new sensing tools are reshaping collective animal behavior research

Collective animal behavior research is entering a new interdisciplinary phase, driven by AI, sensing technologies, and virtual reality. This transformation enables scientists to track and analyze whole groups in unprecedented detail, capturing patterns previously invisible. Insights from animal swarms are increasingly shaping real-worl...

SourceTechnische Universität Berlin – Science of Intelligence·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 28, 2026

Real-time imaging of contact between cells and between a single neuron’s extensions

Scientists from The University of Osaka have created two new fluorescent markers, Gachapin and Gachapin-C, that can visualize dynamic cell-to-cell contacts and connections within a single neuron's extensions. These indicators allow for the monitoring of complex patterns of connectivity in various cell types, including neurons.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

A new understanding of spontaneous brillouin metrology: intrinsic noise sets the fundamental performance limit

Researchers developed a comprehensive framework to describe intensity fluctuations in Spontaneous Brillouin scattering, linking its stochastic behavior to system parameters. Experimental validation confirmed theoretical predictions, revealing the universal fundamental precision limit imposed by SpBS noise on Brillouin metrology.

Wastewater surveillance reveals true scale of COVID-19 spread as clinical testing declines

A study in Japan found that wastewater surveillance can uncover the true scale of COVID-19 spread by detecting high viral loads in sewage despite reduced clinical testing. This approach offers an objective view of community-wide infection levels, unaffected by changes in testing policies or public behavior.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalEnvironment International·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 2026

New research enables safe reuse of concrete

A new framework developed by researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology enables builders to reuse structural elements confidently, extending the lifespan of used concrete by 50-100 years. The study's findings show that reusing concrete is one of the most effective ways to cut emissions and reduce waste in construction.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials and Structures·DateJan 28, 2026

Study maps the climate-related evolution of modern kangaroos and wallabies

A QUT-led study has found how increasing aridity and habitat variation led to the diversification of modern kangaroos and wallabies. The research reveals that these iconic Australian marsupials evolved in two major bursts over the past nine million years, with their expansion coinciding with the emergence of grasslands.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 28, 2026

A lost world: Ancient cave reveals million-year-old wildlife

Scientists have uncovered a treasure trove of 12 million-year-old bird and four frog species in a New Zealand cave, shedding light on the continent's ancient history. The findings suggest that catastrophic climate changes and volcanic eruptions led to frequent extinctions, with around 33-50% of species disappearing before human arrival.

SourceFlinders University·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 2026

New Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution study cautions that deep-sea fishing could undermine valuable tuna fisheries

A new Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution study suggests that large-scale deep-sea fishing could undermine valuable tuna fisheries by reducing the food available to bigeye tuna. The research highlights the importance of ecosystem-based management and considering cross-fishery trade-offs before expanding new fisheries.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalFisheries Management and Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 28, 2026

Fish liver self-defense: How autophagy helps pufferfish survive under the cold and copper stress

A study on the pufferfish (Takifugu fasciatus) found that its liver uses autophagy to defend against cold and copper stress. Autophagy helps the liver recycle damaged components and maintain internal balance under stress. The research identifies three key genes (lc3, beclin-1, and p62) that play a crucial role in this process.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalAnimal Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Embedding critical thinking from a young age

Experts call for a radical refocus on school curricula to include more critical thinking and learning skills. The International Microbiology Literacy Initiative's MicroChats provide real-world contexts for children to develop critical reflection and hone their skills.

SourceFlinders University·JournalMicrobial Biotechnology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 28, 2026

Unlocking MOF-based nanoparticle impellers through dimensional engineering to achieve optically controlled cargo delivery

Researchers created a two-dimensional MOF-based nano-impeller that achieved efficient photoisomerization and on-demand cargo delivery. The study found that mechanical activation and dimensionality synergistically regulate the photo-switching dynamics, enabling 99% cargo release within 50 minutes.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

New AI tool accelerates hearing research with unprecedented 3D views of sensory cells

Researchers have developed a new AI tool called VASCilia that provides unprecedented 3D views of cochlear hair cells. The tool accelerates the imaging process by 50-fold, allowing scientists to analyze cells with greater precision and accuracy. This advancement offers new insights into hearing loss caused by damaged inner ear hair cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 28, 2026