Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2026 - Page 517


Page 517 of 524

JBNU researchers propose hierarchical porous copper nanosheet-based triboelectric nanogenerators

Researchers at Jeonbuk National University propose hierarchical porous copper nanosheet-based triboelectric nanogenerators, demonstrating efficient energy harvesting and multifunctionality. The devices achieve a remarkable 590% increase in electrical output while maintaining stability over 100,000 repeated mechanical cycles.

Short-circuiting pancreatic cancer

Researchers have discovered a complex regulatory circuit involving SRSF1, AURKA, and MYC that promotes aggressive pancreatic cancer progression. The circuit, which involves alternative splicing, can be targeted with an antisense oligonucleotide to reduce tumor cells' viability and trigger apoptosis.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 8, 2026

Behind nature’s blueprints

Scientists from ISTA and Brandeis University develop a geometric framework that predicts viable structures in self-assembling particles. The 'high-dimensional convex polyhedron' tool helps identify constraints that prevent certain outcomes, offering insights into designing custom-made nanomaterials.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 8, 2026

Researchers search for why some people’s gut microbes produce high alcohol levels

A study published in Nature Microbiology identified specific gut microbes and metabolic pathways responsible for producing high levels of alcohol in patients with auto-brewery syndrome. The researchers found that stool samples from patients produced significantly more ethanol than those from unaffected individuals or healthy controls, ...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2026

Thermal drone monitoring a promising way to monitor dolphin health

Marine mammal experts use drone-based thermal imaging to measure dolphin surface temperature and respiration rates, detecting biologically meaningful changes in physiological state. The study validates the accuracy of drone measurements under controlled conditions, paving the way for safer health monitoring of marine mammals.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Thermal Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 7, 2026

Putting workers at the centre of rapid AI change

A new framework proposes managing AI-related risks by treating workers as co-designers of workplace transformation. The framework integrates job crafting, participatory oversight, and expanded WHS definitions to address relational harms and promote human labour values.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Industrial Relations·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 7, 2026

First optical microneedle device in the world enabling glucose quantification in ultra-trace samples

A novel optical microneedle device developed by researchers can quantify glucose levels in ultra-trace samples with high precision, offering a potential solution for blood-sampling-free clinical testing. The device features a functional hydrogel at its tip that reversibly binds to glucose, enabling accurate analysis without consuming t...

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

Preoperative VEGFR-TKI Plus ICI therapy facilitates 3D-guided cytoreductive nephron-sparing surgical feasibility and immune remodeling in advanced renal cell carcinoma

This study explores the feasibility of preoperative VEGFR-TKI plus ICI therapy for advanced renal cell carcinoma, finding improved cNSS rates and preservation of renal function. The therapy also induces robust immune activation through increased CD8⁺/CD20⁺ infiltration and tumor microenvironment remodeling.

SourceFAR Publishing Limited·JournalMed Research·DateJan 7, 2026

Three in four new Australian moms struggle with body image

A new review found that social and interpersonal factors significantly impact Australian women's body image concerns after childbirth. Supportive partners, strong social networks, and clear guidance from healthcare providers are protective factors, while appearance-related comments and sociocultural pressure can worsen issues.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 7, 2026

Portable biosensor may enable on-site PFAS detection

A portable biosensor developed at La Trobe University can rapidly detect toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water. The device provides a simple yes or no result, allowing for quick and easy screening of water samples, particularly in regional and remote areas where monitoring is challenging.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

Mass General Brigham–developed cholera vaccine completes phase 1 trial

A single-dose oral cholera vaccine called PanChol has completed a phase 1 clinical trial with positive results, offering hope for combating the devastating disease globally. The vaccine was developed by Mass General Brigham and shows promise in preventing severe vomiting and diarrhea caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 7, 2026

Whooping cough vaccination for pregnant women strengthens babies’ immune system

A study by Radboud University Medical Center found that pregnant women vaccinated against whooping cough transfer antibodies to their newborns, which provide long-lasting protection. This discovery supports the World Health Organization's recommendation to maintain whole-cell vaccines in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 7, 2026

Lack of support for people on weight loss drugs leaves them vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies, say experts

Experts warn that people taking weight loss drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide may not receive sufficient nutritional guidance, leaving them at risk of nutrient deficiencies and muscle loss. The lack of robust evidence surrounding nutritional advice and support has significant implications for overall health and well-being.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalObesity Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 7, 2026

First experimental validation of a “150-year-old chemical common sense” direct visualization of the molecular structural changes in the ultrafast anthracene [4+4] photocycloaddition reaction

The study successfully visualizes the anthracene [4+4] photocycloaddition reaction for the first time, demonstrating controllable, trans-scale photoinduced reaction systems. Direct visualization of intermediate states via single-crystal X-ray diffraction reveals a solid solution consisting of monomers and dimers.

SourceKochi University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

Dramatic decline in new cases of orphanhood in Uganda driven by HIV treatment and prevention programs

The scale-up of HIV treatment and prevention programs has led to a dramatic decline in orphanhood rates in Rakai, Uganda. Between 2003–04 and 2020–22, orphanhood prevalence dropped from 21.5% to just 6.3%, while new cases attributed to maternal or parental HIV status declined significantly.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJan 7, 2026

Digital modeling reveals where construction carbon emissions really come from

A new study uses digital building models to calculate carbon emissions from material production, transportation, operation, and demolition. The approach demonstrates how targeted reduction strategies can be identified before construction begins, highlighting the importance of local material sourcing and clean heating technologies.

Some antibodies outmaneuver germs from sticking to cells

Researchers discovered that certain antibodies employ unusual tactics to block bacterial adhesion, including creating molecular wedges and conformational traps. These mechanisms could lead to the development of immune therapies targeting glycan-binding cell-attachment proteins produced by bacteria causing urinary tract infections.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

NJIT researchers discover long-hidden source of gamma rays unleashed by solar flares

Researchers at NJIT's Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research have pinpointed a previously unknown class of high-energy particles in the Sun's upper atmosphere responsible for generating intense gamma-ray signals during major solar flare events. These particles, energized to millions of electron volts, are linked to bremsstrahlung emissi...

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 7, 2026

New material changes color and texture like an octopus

Researchers at Stanford University have created a flexible material that can change color and texture like an octopus in a matter of seconds, with patterns finer than a human hair. The material uses electron-beam patterning to control topography and visual properties at the nanoscale, opening up opportunities for dynamic camouflage, we...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateJan 7, 2026