Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for January 13, 2026


A new AI-based attack framework advances multi-agent reinforcement learning by amplifying vulnerability and bypassing defenses

Researchers developed PDJA, a novel AI-based attack framework that amplifies vulnerability and bypasses defenses in multi-agent reinforcement learning systems. The approach improves attack effectiveness and cross-layer vulnerability exploitation, opening new opportunities for evaluating the robustness of AI-driven autonomous systems.

SourceELSP·JournalArtificial Intelligence and Autonomous Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 13, 2026

Are we giving AI a pulse through language?

A study by Iowa State University researchers found that anthropomorphizing language, such as using mental verbs like 'think' or 'know', is less common in news writing than expected. When used, these words often describe what AI requires to function, rather than attributing human-like qualities to the system. The research team identifie...

SourceIowa State University·JournalTechnical Communication Quarterly·TypeNews article·DateJan 13, 2026

‘Cosmic clock’ reveals Australian landscapes’ history and potential future

A new method uses tiny crystals of zircon to study the past evolution of Australian landscapes, offering insights into how the environment responds to geological processes and climate change. The approach provides valuable information on the storage and reworking of sediments near the surface over millions of years.

SourceCurtin University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2026

Food critics or food grabbers? When choosing food, wood mice split into careful examiners who sniff and handle, and quick nut grabbers

Researchers at Nagoya University found that about half of wood mice take time to examine nuts before selecting, potentially increasing their exposure to predators. Despite this risk, the extra time investment pays off as picky eaters are more likely to select undamaged chestnuts.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

AI model identifies how every country can improve its cancer outcomes

A machine learning model has identified the most important drivers of cancer survival in nearly all countries, highlighting factors such as national wealth, access to radiotherapy and universal health coverage. The model provides data-driven roadmaps for policymakers to prioritize resources and close survival gaps.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

Higher maternal blood pressure increases the risk of pregnancy complications, study concludes

A new study published in BMC Medicine found that higher maternal blood pressure increases the risk of preterm delivery, smaller babies, and gestational diabetes. The research used Mendelian randomization to assess the link between maternal blood pressure and 24 adverse pregnancy outcomes, revealing clear causal effects.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

Female sex and higher education linked to escalating prevalence of obesity and overweight in Africa

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Africa has surged, with a significant increase in obesity over the past two decades. Women are nearly five times more likely to be obese than men, while those with tertiary-level education are three times more likely. The study's findings highlight the need for targeted public health interven...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2026

Biochar helps farmland soils withstand extreme rain and drought by steadying carbon loss

Researchers found that biochar can soften the impacts of swings between wet and dry conditions on soil organic carbon breakdown. The study showed that stronger moisture variability speeds up decomposition and boosts microbial activity, but biochar addition helped stabilize the soil system under variable moisture conditions.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

Implant provides lasting relief for treatment-resistant depression

A study found that a small, implanted vagus nerve stimulation device produced substantial and sustained improvements in depressive symptoms, quality of life, and daily function in patients with treatment-resistant depression. The device showed lasting benefits even after two years, with nearly one-third of participants who didn't respo...

SourceWashU Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 13, 2026

Pennington Biomedical researchers explore factors behind body’s ability to regulate weight

Pennington Biomedical researchers investigated competing body weight regulation models, analyzing the interaction of energy intake and expenditure. The study highlights the need to test state-of-the-art technology and could help explain why losing weight is challenging for some individuals.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalNature Reviews Endocrinology·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 13, 2026

LLM treatment advice agrees with physician recommendations in early-stage HCC, but falls short in late stage

Large language models (LLMs) provide treatment recommendations for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that align with clinical guidelines. However, their performance is limited in late-stage disease, where they prioritize tumor factors over liver function. LLMs should be used as a supplement to clinical expertise.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 13, 2026

Deep learning model trained with stage II colorectal cancer whole slide images identifies features associated with risk of recurrence – with higher success rate than clinical prognostic parameters

A deep learning model trained on stage II colorectal cancer whole slide images accurately identified features linked to recurrence risk. The study found the model surpassed clinical prognostic parameters in predicting patient outcomes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2026

Novel immunotherapy demonstrates early potential to overcome resistance to immune checkpoint therapy

A Phase I study led by Timothy Yap demonstrates the potential of linavonkibart to target and prevent activation of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGFβ1), overcoming treatment resistance in multiple cancers. The trial showed manageable safety profiles and objective responses in heavily pre-treated patients, suggesting a promising ne...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 13, 2026

Caught in the act: Scientists observe infections by cancer-causing retroviruses in koalas as they occur

Researchers analyzed the genome of over 100 koalas and found that two retroviruses are causing cancer deaths. They also discovered that some Koala Retrovirus (KoRV) integrations may be beneficial to koala health, increasing longevity or reproductive output.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

Female athlete health, well-being focus of updated report

A new consensus statement provides evidence-based guidance for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and return-to-play protocols for female athletes. The updated report includes a first-of-its-kind adolescent model of the Female Athlete Triad, addressing energy deficiency in growing adolescents.

SourcePenn State·JournalSports Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 13, 2026

Wyss Institute-led collaboration awarded by ARPA-H PRINT program to engineer off-the-shelf, universal, transplant-ready graft for liver failure

A multidisciplinary team of world-leading experts is developing an off-the-shelf engineered product that could address liver failure in millions of patients. The ImPLANT project aims to create synthetic biology-based gene circuits in human induced pluripotent stem cells to drive cell differentiation into all required liver cell types.

Fat surrounding the colon interacts with the immune system

Research reveals that fat located near the colon contains an unusually high number of inflammatory fat cells and immune cells, suggesting a unique function in communicating with the immune system in the gut region. This tissue may be an adaptation to the gut microbiome and could contribute to amplifying or sustaining inflammation.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

Organisms in the Atacama Desert soil are remarkably diverse

A new study reveals that resilient nematodes can persist in the Atacama Desert's hostile soil, with population diversity correlating to water profile and temperature fluctuations. The findings suggest that biodiversity in arid regions may be higher than previously assumed, but also warn of ecosystem damage.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2026

Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B Volume 15, Issue 12 Publishes

This issue features revolutionary research in drug design, artificial intelligence for radiopharmaceuticals, hiPSC-derived liver organoids, and precision malignancy therapy. Groundbreaking studies showcase the potential of graph neural networks, AI-driven advancements, and innovative treatments.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateJan 13, 2026

KAIST detects ‘hidden defects’ that degrade semiconductor performance with 1,000× higher sensitivity​

A KAIST research team developed a new analysis method to detect electronic traps in semiconductors with high sensitivity. The technique enables precise identification of defect sources, improving semiconductor performance and lifetime while reducing costs. The results demonstrate a 1,000x higher sensitivity than existing techniques.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

Children’s Hospital Colorado research outlines first pediatric classifications for suicide risk in adolescents and kids

Researchers have identified five classifications of youth who have died by suicide, highlighting the importance of earlier detection and interventions. These classifications will improve primary care providers' understanding of specific risk factors and warning signs, enabling targeted prevention efforts.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

Researchers from the UJI Optics Group correct image aberrations in real time in single-pixel microscopy using a deformable lens

Researchers from the UJI Optics Group have developed a new method to correct image aberrations in single-pixel microscopy using a deformable lens. This approach combines an adaptive lens with a sensor-less method that evaluates image sharpness directly from the data, producing sharper images close to the physical resolution limit witho...

SourceUniversitat Jaume I·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

Scientists put teeth into water-driven gears

Researchers created a gear mechanism that relies on fluids to generate rotation, offering potential for new mechanical devices with improved flexibility and durability. The invention holds promise by eliminating the need for interlocking teeth and allowing for controlled rotation speed and direction.

SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 13, 2026

The hidden warming challenge in climate action

A new study suggests that current climate actions may not effectively curb global warming acceleration, as aerosol reduction weakens cooling effect. Climate policy assessments need to consider additional climate effects from co-reduced aerosols and their risks.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

Minimum wage increases are linked to safer pregnancies

A Rutgers University study finds that state-level minimum wage increases are associated with lower rates of maternal hypertensive disorders, a leading cause of maternal mortality. The research found a $1 increase in the minimum wage to be linked to 64 fewer cases per 100,000 women over five years.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 13, 2026

AI surpasses mathematical limits to decode the mysteries of non-Hermitian topology

A team of researchers developed an AI algorithm capable of classifying complex topological phases of matter without relying on traditional mathematical tools. The breakthrough tackles the notoriously difficult realm of non-Hermitian systems and suggests that AI can surpass human capabilities in certain domains of abstract reasoning.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

New mechanism links Epstein-Barr virus to MS

A new study from Karolinska Institutet reveals the Epstein-Barr virus can damage the brain and contribute to multiple sclerosis through molecular mimicry. The researchers found that cross-reactive T cells are significantly more common in people with MS, and targeting these cells may lead to new treatments.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell·DateJan 13, 2026

Vulnerable populations shoulder larger number, higher intensity of environmental burdens

New research shows that vulnerable populations in the US are exposed to a larger number and higher intensity of environmental burdens. The study found strong relationships between concentrated environmental burdens and vulnerable communities, with communities of color and those with limited English fluency facing the greatest risks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 13, 2026

WhatsApp data show: We often deceive ourselves

A study by Bielefeld University used anonymized WhatsApp metadata to show that personalized feedback can help people understand their communication habits. Many participants adjusted their views on response speed and chat participation after seeing data-based visualizations.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

Bringing human dexterity to robots by combining human motion and tactile sensation

A team of researchers from Keio University has developed a novel system that uses Gaussian process regression to model and reproduce complex human motions. This enables robots to adapt to touch and interact with objects in dynamic environments, improving their dexterity and versatility.

SourceKeio University Global Research Institute·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

This is how a coral produces the pulsating movements of its tentacles – without a brain and in perfect synchronization

A joint study by Tel Aviv University and the University of Haifa discovered that a soft coral's tentacles drive rhythmic movements through a decentralized neural pacemaker system. The system enables each tentacle to perform independent movement while achieving precise collective synchronization.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 13, 2026

New mega-analysis reveals why memory declines with age

A landmark study finds that structural brain changes tied to memory decline are nonlinear, stronger in older adults, and not solely driven by known Alzheimer's-associated genes. The study suggests that cognitive decline reflects a broad biological vulnerability in brain structure that accumulates over decades.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

A meta-analysis published in Nature challenges the link between economic inequality and mental health

The study, which reviewed over 10,000 abstracts from ten international databases, found no statistically significant link between economic inequality and well-being or mental health. The researchers suggest that policies focusing solely on reducing economic inequality may not be effective in improving population mental health.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

Discovery of peptidomimetic inhibitors of CREB/CBP by targeting hydrophobic grooves on the surface of the CBP KIX domain

Researchers discovered peptidomimetic inhibitors that target the hydrophobic grooves on the surface of the CBP KIX domain, disrupting CREB/CBP interactions. These stapled sulfonyl-γ-AAp peptide derivatives exhibit effective antiproliferative activity in cell-based assays and inhibit tumor growth in vivo.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateJan 13, 2026

Schizophrenia: The cerebellum’s unexpected role

Researchers discovered the cerebellum's key role in regulating the brain's reward system in people with schizophrenia. Stronger cerebellar regulation is associated with reduced negative symptoms, while weaker regulation increases symptoms. This finding opens up new avenues for targeted therapeutic interventions.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeNews article·DateJan 13, 2026

A dry surface thanks to fluid physics

A new method harnesses differences in surface tension to efficiently transport liquids off microscopic surfaces, enabling efficient production of micro- and nanomaterials without damaging them. The technique uses a contact-free approach to steer fluid currents in the desired direction.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 13, 2026

RDYH58 functional exosomes targeting myofibroblasts loaded with siFKBP10 for inhibition of collagen biosynthesis and secretion of IPF

Researchers developed exosomes targeting myofibroblasts loaded with siFKBP10, which silenced FKBP10 gene expression, inhibiting fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix deposition. This study demonstrates a promising therapeutic strategy for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) treatment.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateJan 13, 2026

Mothering in a time of crisis and anxiety is a society-wide job, new Concordia research shows

A new study by Concordia researchers explores how anxiety-inducing headlines fuel 'maternal responsibilization,' where mothers are expected to pick up the slack on addressing complex issues like climate change and social injustice. The research highlights the pressures of motherhood, including generational expectations to raise childre...

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Gender Studies·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

New parameterization method for cislunar space cataloging enhances orbital awareness in Earth-Moon system

A novel parameterization method for orbits near collinear libration points has been developed, allowing for systematic cataloging and robust identification of cislunar objects. The method enables the characterization of motion along two directions, providing critical insight into spacecraft maneuvers and transfer events.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalChinese Journal of Aeronautics·DateJan 13, 2026

Research on the behavioral mechanisms of rural distributed photovoltaic development: A view of prosumer perspective

A new study examines behavioral mechanisms of rural distributed photovoltaic development, finding that collaboration between PV enterprises and village organizations is key to expanding adoption. The research also highlights the importance of balancing self-consumption requirements with grid capacity constraints.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalEnergy and Climate Management·DateJan 13, 2026

FXYD family in health and disease

The FXYD family proteins have diverse physiological and pathological roles, influencing ion transport in different organs and tissues. Altered expression or dysfunction of these proteins is associated with numerous diseases, including cardiovascular, neurological, renal, and cancer disorders.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateJan 13, 2026

New study links lipid-related metabolites to depression risk and protection

A landmark study identifies 11 lipid-related metabolites that are causally associated with major depressive disorder (MDD), including 8 protective effects. The research reveals shared genetic signals between lipid metabolites and MDD, clustering in key genomic regions involved in fatty acid metabolism.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2026

Resonant breathing shows promise as a low-burden intervention to improve autonomic regulation, anxiety and insomnia in acutely ill psychiatric inpatients with severe somatic symptoms

Resonant breathing significantly reduced anxiety and insomnia symptoms and improved heart rate variability in hospitalised psychiatric patients with severe somatic symptoms. The intervention was well-tolerated and required minimal cognitive effort.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

Researchers develop multiphase 'Soggy Sand' electrolyte for high-temperature aqueous zinc metal batteries

Researchers developed a novel aqueous electrolyte, MASSE, which improves AZMBs stability and reversibility at elevated temperatures. The multiphase design suppresses side reactions and promotes uniform zinc ion deposition, enabling stable battery operation in harsh thermal environments.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 13, 2026

Recycling urban soils

Scientists at Technical University of Munich create constructed soils by mixing excavated soil with compost and biochar, resulting in improved fertility and carbon accrual. These new urban soils can be tailored to specific use cases, such as protecting groundwater or enhancing plant growth in green areas.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalBasic and Applied Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

City of Hope experts available to provide insight on the American Cancer Society’s new ‘Cancer Statistics, 2026’ report

The American Cancer Society's new 'Cancer Statistics, 2026' report reveals a historic milestone: US cancer survivorship has reached a record 70%, driven by major gains in cancers once considered difficult to treat. However, the report also highlights persistent disparities, concerning increases in cancer among women and younger adults.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalCA A Cancer Journal for Clinicians·DateJan 13, 2026

An abnormally slow heart rate is associated with xylazine-fentanyl overdose; primarily seen in northeastern United States

Researchers identified bradycardia as a symptom of xylazine-opioid overdose, particularly in the Northeast, where xylazine is more prevalent. This finding may aid emergency medicine physicians in detecting xylazine exposure and providing harm reduction counseling.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAddiction·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 13, 2026

Copper-palladium hydride interfaces enable highly efficient electrochemical ammonia synthesis

Researchers developed a copper-palladium bimetallic catalyst that produces high-quality ammonia through an electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction. The catalyst's dynamic Cu-PdH x interface sites exhibit superior intrinsic activity, achieving remarkable production rates and durability.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 13, 2026

Researchers construct robust inter-anchored hydrogen-bond network for long-life aqueous zinc-ion batteries

A team of researchers has developed a robust hydrogen-bond network in electrolytes to enhance the performance of aqueous zinc-ion batteries. The new design minimizes the reactivity of water molecules, suppressing deterioration on both electrodes and achieving long-lasting cycling stability with high capacity retention.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 13, 2026

The path to solar weather forecasts

Scientists used multiple space-based instruments to track the evolution of a solar eruption, observing how it reduced background cosmic-ray activity. This approach has potential for improving space-weather forecasting and protecting satellites, astronauts, and power grids.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2026

Korea University study mimics heart mechanics in organoids using three-dimensional magnetic torque

A Korea University study successfully mimics heart mechanics in organoids using three-dimensional magnetic torque, enhancing cardiac differentiation, maturation, and vascularization. This breakthrough could improve drug safety testing by providing more accurate human-relevant models for cardiotoxicity screening.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalActa Biomaterialia·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

A “nu” way to measure researcher impact

Researchers introduce a new citation index called 'nu' that balances productivity and citation quality, lying between the h-index and g-index. The authors propose a more balanced assessment of research impact by considering both productivity and citation quality.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJan 13, 2026

Hanbat National University researchers reveal smart transparent woods that block UV and save energy

Researchers from Hanbat National University develop switchable thermochromic transparent woods for smart windows, blocking UV radiation and reducing thermal conductivity. The material enables energy-autonomous light regulation and protects skin without sacrificing visible light.

SourceHanbat National University Industry–University Cooperation Foundation·JournalAdvanced Composites and Hybrid Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

A new diet option for mild-to-moderate Crohn’s disease

A new diet option has been shown to improve both physical symptoms and biological indicators of mild-to-moderate Crohn's disease. Participants in the fasting mimicking group experienced significant declines in fecal calprotectin, a protein indicating gut inflammation, and showed clinical benefits even after just one cycle.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 13, 2026

Rhythm contains important information for the cell

Cells use a complex rhythm to respond to different types of stress, such as starvation or salt stress, with insulin-driven protein DAF-16 acting as a key regulator. The research may contribute to understanding diseases like diabetes and cancer, as well as aging.

SourceAMOLF·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

Recovering tropical forests grow back nearly twice as fast with nitrogen

A new study reveals that tropical forests can regrow up to 95% faster when given sufficient nitrogen, allowing them to absorb more carbon dioxide. This finding suggests that targeting nitrogen pollution from farms and factories may be crucial in helping young forests recover and act as natural climate solutions.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026

Common eye ointment can damage glaucoma implants, study warns

A new study from Nagoya University in Japan has found that petrolatum-based eye ointments can cause MicroShunt glaucoma implants to swell and potentially rupture. The study suggests that clinicians should avoid using these ointments on patients with the implant, particularly when it is exposed outside the conjunctiva.

SourceNagoya University·JournalGraefe s Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology·DateJan 13, 2026