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Science News for January 14, 2026


An AI-guided framework reveals conserved features governing microRNA strand selection

Researchers have decoded the logic of microRNA strand selection using AI, revealing a conserved and programmable mechanism governing gene regulation. The study found that this decision follows conserved rules rather than chance, with mammalian microRNAs showing a strong bias towards a single dominant strand.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Tiny Titans of Recovery - Ancient traces reveal minute fossil life in South Africa’s Cederberg mountains

A team of scientists uncovered fossil evidence of a tiny ecosystem that helped revive marine life after the end-Ordovician ice age and mass extinction event. The discovery provides insights into ancient biological processes and highlights the importance of seafloor ecosystems in regulating carbon and nutrient cycles.

SourceUniversity of Cape Town - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2026

Alliance trial reveals gene variant may affect prostate cancer drug efficacy

A major U.S. clinical trial has uncovered a genetic factor that may inform how to optimize the dosing of abiraterone, a widely used hormone treatment for advanced prostate cancer. Researchers found that men who carry a specific version of the gene SULT2A1 clear abiraterone from their bodies more slowly, which could affect how well it w...

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalClinical and Translational Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Turning crystal flaws into quantum highways: a new route towards scalable solid-state qubits

A new study reveals that crystal dislocations can serve as powerful building blocks for quantum interconnects, enabling the creation of stable and coherent qubits. The researchers showed that nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond can be attracted to dislocations and retain their quantum properties when positioned near these line defects.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateJan 14, 2026

Potential new treatment for sepsis

Researchers at Griffith University have successfully conducted a Phase II clinical trial in China, showing promising results for a carbohydrate-based drug candidate called STC3141. The treatment aims to reduce organ damage and reverse biological responses associated with sepsis.

SourceGriffith University·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 14, 2026

Gas-atomized Ca–Mg alloy powders produce hydrogen simply by adding water — high-efficiency hydrogen generation at room temperature

Researchers have developed a new method for generating hydrogen using gas-atomized Ca–Mg eutectic alloys. When added to water, these powders produce hydrogen at room temperature with high efficiency and controllability, making them an attractive candidate for portable hydrogen supply devices and emergency power units.

SourceKochi University of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Reporting workplace sexual harassment ‘not worth it’

A recent study suggests that two in five Australians who experienced workplace sexual harassment did not report it. Researchers argue that fear of retaliation, lack of trust in the system and feelings of powerlessness are major barriers to reporting. Despite legal reforms, most people still feel uncomfortable coming forward.

SourceFlinders University·JournalWork & Stress·TypeSurvey·DateJan 14, 2026

A visible light-catalyzed delayed aryl migration strategy for precise ipso-, para-difunctionalization of aromatic amines

Researchers developed a novel photoredox catalytic radical-polar cross-reaction to achieve precise bifunctionalization of inert C–N bonds and para-C–H bonds in olefin-substituted aniline derivatives. The strategy utilizes sulfur dioxide to capture Meisenheimer intermediates, suppressing the classical free radical aryl migration pathway.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Maternal microbiome compound may hold key to preventing liver disease

A study from the University of Oklahoma suggests that maternal indole supplementation can significantly reduce the risk of fatty liver disease in children. The research found that offspring whose mothers received indole maintained healthier livers and had lower blood sugar levels, even after exposure to a Western-style diet later in life.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Same moves, different terrain: How bacteria navigate complex environments without changing their playbook

Researchers found that bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, use a 'run-and-tumble' movement pattern to move through different environments, despite the complexity of their surroundings. This behavior is similar to walking through mud, where the underlying movement pattern remains the same, but with changes in speed and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPRX Life·DateJan 14, 2026

UH Seidman Cancer Researchers: What is the ideal duration of hormone therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer?

Researchers from University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center found that the optimal duration of hormone therapy for prostate cancer treatment varies by disease risk. For high-risk patients, longer courses of ADT provide diminishing benefits while increasing the risk of non-prostate cancer death.

UVA engineer named IEEE Fellow for Breakthroughs in Energy-Harvesting Wireless Systems and Age of Information Research

Jing Yang, a University of Virginia professor, has been recognized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) for her pioneering work on energy-harvesting wireless communications and Age of Information optimization. Her research aims to improve efficiency, timeliness, and sustainability in modern wireless networks.

Study finds radiation therapy administered before surgery rarely shrinks retroperitoneal sarcoma tumors

A new study from Fox Chase Cancer Center confirms that preoperative radiation therapy does not reduce surgical complexity in patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma. The research suggests that most patients benefit from proceeding directly to surgery, as skipping radiation has no significant impact on tumor size or surgical outcomes.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalJournal of Surgical Research·DateJan 14, 2026

Sequestered in immune cells, barium titanate nanoparticles stimulated by ultrasound launch inflammatory response

Boston College researchers used piezoelectric nanoparticles to trigger macrophages, a key part of the body's immune response. The study suggests that this method could be used to activate immune cells specifically at an infection or tumor site, avoiding side effects associated with systemic administration of drugs.

SourceBoston College·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

An unexpected breakthrough in flat optics

A team from Harvard and University of Lisbon found that silica, a low-refractive index material, can be used for making metasurfaces despite long-held assumptions. They discovered that by carefully considering the geometry of each nanopillar, silica behaves as a metasurface, enabling efficient design of devices with relaxed feature sizes.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

1 in 5 surveyed UK adults who have experienced the death of a pet report it as more distressing than experienced human deaths, with significant rates of prolonged grief disorder symptoms also being reported following pet loss

A recent study found that approximately 1 in 5 surveyed UK adults who experienced the death of a pet report it as more distressing than experiencing human deaths. The study also discovered significant rates of prolonged grief disorder symptoms following pet loss.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·DateJan 14, 2026

Avocados may become easier to grow in India—but not if global emissions remain high

A new study suggests that avocado growing areas in India will moderately expand northward and to higher elevations under low to moderate global emissions. However, if global emissions continue to rise, suitable zones may fragment and destabilize by 2070. The researchers call for conservation and climate-resilient cultivation strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 14, 2026

Has progress stalled on gender equality at work?

The study emphasizes the importance of reorganizing work to support prevention rather than perpetual recovery, particularly in the face of climate change and technological disruption. It also highlights the need for gender equity in technology design and governance to prevent job displacement and undervaluation of women's work.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalThe Economic and Labour Relations Review·DateJan 14, 2026

New synaptic formation in adolescence challenges conventional views of brain development

Researchers from Kyushu University found that the brain forms new, high-density clusters of synapses on specific segments of dendrites during adolescence, challenging the 'adolescent synaptic pruning' hypothesis. This discovery may offer new hope for understanding the biological basis of schizophrenia and other neurodevelopmental condi...

SourceKyushu University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Pregnant women with IBD show heightened inflammation in vaginal mucosa

A new study found pregnant individuals with IBD have higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in their vaginal mucosa than healthy controls. However, a higher intake of vegetables and lower added sugars was associated with lower inflammation and increased beneficial microbe Lactobacillus crispatus.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2026

Common: being wrong. Less common: admitting it

Researchers at the University of Houston found that admitting intellectual errors can increase public trust in science. In a classroom setting, professors who admit mistakes were rated higher by students for warmth, competence, and teacher effectiveness. This study highlights the importance of intellectual humility in building respect.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPublic Understanding of Science·DateJan 14, 2026

Study finds alpha-2 receptor drugs reduce heavy alcohol drinking

Researchers found that guanfacine, a selective alpha-2 adrenergic drug, reduced heavy alcohol consumption and improved certain cognitive deficits without sedation. The study suggests that stimulating alpha-2 receptors may restore balance to the noradrenergic system, reducing drive to drink while improving prefrontal cognitive functions.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournaleNeuro·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Seoul National University-Drexel University team achieves world's highest efficiency fully stretchable OLEDs with 17% external quantum efficiency

The research team developed a novel design combining an exciplex-assisted phosphorescent layer and MXene-contact stretchable electrode, achieving record-high efficiency fully stretchable OLEDs. The device maintained stable luminance and efficiency under large tensile strains, demonstrating reliable operation.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Quality of life of parents of premature infants

The study reveals parental quality of life is compromised during the premature infant's hospitalization period. A family-centered approach with tailored support from the neonatal intensive care unit and postdischarge period can protect and promote parental well-being.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 14, 2026

Controlling magnetic materials

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have developed a method to control the frequency of collective magnetic oscillations in materials, known as magnons. By applying laser pulses and a weak magnetic field, they can increase or decrease frequencies by up to 40%, enabling faster data writing and transfer.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2026

Discovery of eleven novel factors essential for mouse zygote development

A research team has identified eleven novel factors essential for mouse zygote development, which modulate embryonic development through precise mechanisms. These findings suggest the existence of previously unrecognized regulatory factors and indicate potential for molecular-level control of embryo development.

SourceKanazawa Medical University·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Dopamine under control: precision regulation of inhibition shapes learning, memory and mental health

New research reveals dopamine's precise role in fine-tuning inhibitory circuits in the hippocampus, crucial for learning and memory. The study highlights the importance of neural silence and adaptation through inhibitory plasticity, transforming dopamine from a reward signal to a microscopic architect of local networks.

SourceWroclaw Medical University·JournalProgress in Neurobiology·DateJan 14, 2026

Why can a computational model of the heart created at UPF help doctors operate on and treat patients with arrhythmia?

Researchers have developed a new computational model that can analyze factors affecting the success of device installation and patient evolution. The model enables precise calculation of anticoagulant doses needed post-operation, reducing risk and improving safety for patients with atrial fibrillation.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalJACC Case Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 14, 2026

Major river deltas are sinking faster than sea-level rise

A recent study found that nearly every major river delta is experiencing subsidence, with at least some portion sinking faster than the sea level in 18 of the 40 deltas examined. This phenomenon poses a significant threat to the lives of over 236 million people, particularly in regions such as the Mekong and Nile river systems.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2026

Prenatal and early-life pollution exposures may influence childhood blood pressure patterns, ECHO study finds

A new study from the ECHO Program found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) before and after birth may influence childhood blood pressure patterns. High blood pressure in children is a growing concern worldwide, with nearly 80% increase over two decades.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2026

Weight management process designed by CU Anschutz faculty show population weight gain reversal

A new weight management process called PATHWEIGH has been developed by CU Anschutz faculty to help patients with weight management. The program mitigates population weight gain by 0.58 kg over 18 months and increases the likelihood of a patient receiving weight-related care by 23%.

SourceUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 14, 2026

Nightingales strike the right chord

Researchers found that male nightingales precisely match pitch, but also adjust note length to achieve a trade-off strategy. They exhibit flexibility in how closely they match pitch versus duration depending on the combination heard. This ability requires rapid processing and neural flexibility.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 14, 2026

New research highlights deforestation and economic traps created by flue-cured tobacco in Zimbabwe

A new study reveals the devastating impacts of flue-cured Virginia tobacco production on the environment and farmers' lives in Zimbabwe. The research highlights the destruction of 60,000 hectares of Miombo woodland each year and an economic context that prevents farmers from diversifying into less damaging crops.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalTobacco Control·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2026

Breakthrough in retinal organoid research

Scientists have developed a method to create functional retinal organoids that contain human retinal ganglion cells and allow the development of light-signal pathways. The vascularized organoids demonstrated improved cell survival, increased functional maturity, and the ability to respond to hypoxia.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

New molecular design strategy improves efficiency and selectivity in electrocatalytic reactions

Researchers at YOKOHAMA National University have designed a new class of mediators that more actively control electrocatalysis reactions, promoting efficient C-N bond formation. The mediators utilize redox-triggered halogen bonding to dynamically capture and organize substrates, leading to improved reaction efficiency and selectivity.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 14, 2026

In patients’ homes, medical students learn what textbooks miss - new study

A new study found that year-long home visits with older adults helped first-year medical students develop stronger communication skills and challenge their age-related stereotypes. The program, which included gentle physical activity and open conversation, also promoted empathy and a patient-centered mindset among the students.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalMedical Education Online·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2026

Quantum physics: new state of matter discovered

Scientists have found a way to describe topological states in materials where the particle picture breaks down. The discovery sheds light on a new type of behavior, exhibiting spontaneous Hall effect and quantum-critical fluctuations. This finding opens up possibilities for storing quantum information and developing novel sensors.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

“Recipe book” for reprogramming immune cells

Researchers have created a library of over 400 immune-related factors to reprogram rare immune cell populations. This technique allows for the systematic discovery of 'recipes' for specific immune cells, offering hope for unresponsive patients and advancing immunotherapy.

SourceLund University·JournalCell Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Study shows how kidnapping of athlete's father influenced society, president across continents

A study from the University of Kansas found that the kidnapping of Luis Manuel Díaz, father of Colombian soccer star Luis “Lucho” Díaz, resulted in coverage that portrayed his son as a national hero and cast doubt on peace negotiations. The media framing of the story had broader implications for the Total Peace initiative and the Petro...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalSport in Society·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 14, 2026

Can a hashtag help prevent atrocities? Study shows social media can be a powerful tool

A new study by Binghamton University Professor Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm found that social media hashtags can help identify early warning signs of violence and amplify local voices. The research examined social media campaigns in Canada and Syria, analyzing over 5,000 posts tied to #TruthAndReconciliation and #SaveSyria.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Comparative Policy Analysis Research and Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 14, 2026

Your voice gives away valuable personal information, so how do you keep that data safe?

Researchers at Aalto University warn that speech technologies can extract valuable personal information, posing risks for insurance premiums, advertising, and harassment. To mitigate this, engineers are developing protective measures, such as separating private info from necessary data transmission and using acoustic technologies to en...

SourceAalto University·JournalProceedings of the IEEE·DateJan 14, 2026

Self-healing composite can make airplane, automobile and spacecraft components last for centuries

Researchers developed a self-healing composite that can repair itself over 1,000 times and extend the lifetime of conventional fiber-reinforced composite materials by centuries. The material targets interlaminar delamination, which occurs when cracks cause fiber layers to separate from the matrix.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Application of orthogonal CNOP-I in a convection-allowing ensemble prediction system based on CMA-MESO for improving extreme precipitation skill

Researchers improve extreme precipitation forecast accuracy using a novel CNOP-I scheme in a convection-allowing ensemble prediction system. The new method captures nonlinear evolution characteristics of weather systems, leading to more accurate predictions and reduced uncertainty.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJan 14, 2026

Rare earth praseodymium single atoms

Researchers have created tubular CN materials with atomically dispersed Pr single atoms, exhibiting excellent activity for photocatalytic H2O2 production from pure water under visible light. The optimized catalyst achieved a high yield of 227.37 μmol g’ h’  without requiring sacrificial agents.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalActa Physico-Chimica Sinica·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Robust semi-supervised learning in open environments

Researchers develop techniques to address label space mismatch, feature space mismatch, and distribution mismatch in open environments. A new evaluation benchmark and performance metrics are also introduced for comprehensive evaluation of robust semi-supervised learning methods.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

New study reveals precursors for forecasting summer clustered extreme precipitation events in Northeast China

Researchers have identified four synoptic patterns contributing to summer clustered extreme precipitation events in Northeast China, including eastward-moving low-altitude vortex and southwesterlies. The study provides a robust assessment of prerequisite conditions for these events and offers insights into short-term forecasting.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJan 14, 2026

Korea University researchers revive an abandoned depression drug target using structurally novel NK1 receptor inhibitors

Researchers from Korea University report a breakthrough in reviving an abandoned depression drug target by redesigning the molecular structure of neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists. New compounds exhibiting antidepressant-like effects have been identified, reducing depressive-like behavior and brain inflammation in mice.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalExperimental & Molecular Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Physics of foam strangely resembles AI training

Engineers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that foams exhibit internal motion resembling deep learning in AI systems. The study suggests a common mathematical principle underlying both foams and AI training, with implications for designing adaptive materials and understanding biological structures.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 14, 2026

Jeonbuk National University researchers highlight advancements in chemical looping fluidized bed reactors

Researchers highlight advancements in fluidized bed design, oxygen carrier materials, and performance of chemical looping systems. They emphasize the importance of controlling fluidization regime and developing physical standards for oxygen carriers.

Tyrannosaurus rex grew up slowly: New study reveals the “king of dinosaurs” kept growing until age 40

A new study reveals that Tyrannosaurus rex took 40 years to reach its full-grown size, growing at a slower and steadier pace than previously thought. The analysis provides a clearer picture of the dinosaur's life history, suggesting that its growth phase may have allowed it to fill various ecological roles in its environment.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2026

Commercial water dispenser machines may contain more contamination than tap water

A recent study published by Loma Linda University found that commercial water dispensers can harbor bacterial growth, even after disinfection, with some studies identifying contamination as soon as a few days later. The researchers recommend regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent the regrowth of microorganisms.

SourceLoma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center·JournalAIMS Microbiology·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 14, 2026

A CRISPR fingerprint of pathogenic C. auris fungi

A new diagnostic platform enables rapid and accurate detection of drug-resistant C. auris pathogens using CRISPR technology, allowing for more effective treatment and prevention of hospital outbreaks. The dSHERLOCK test can detect the presence of mutations causing antimicrobial resistance in just 40 minutes.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

CBD treatment reverses key effects of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in a mouse model

A preclinical study shows that cannabidiol restores emotional behavior, reduces alcohol-related vulnerability, and reverses gut microbiota alterations caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Female mice particularly benefited from CBD treatment, which normalized their emotional alterations and eliminated vulnerability to alcohol addiction.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Staying single for longer affects young people’s well-being

Young adults who remain single for longer periods experience a decline in life satisfaction and increasing feelings of loneliness, particularly when entering their late twenties. Entering a first romantic relationship improves well-being across several dimensions, but the effects are less pronounced on depressive symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 14, 2026

Your pet's flea treatment could be destroying the planet

A recent study found that common flea and tick control medications used in dogs and cats can contaminate ecosystems with toxic chemicals. Isoxazoline antiparasitic drugs, used globally since 2013, may harm dung-feeding insects, including flies and butterflies, which are crucial for nutrient cycling and soil health.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Researchers discover trigger of tendon disease

A team of researchers has identified the HIF1 protein as a central molecular driver of tendon diseases such as Achilles tendonitis and jumper's knee. Elevated levels of this protein lead to pathogenic remodelling of tendons, making them more brittle and impairing their mechanical function.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 14, 2026