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Science News for January 27, 2026


Blood test detects lingering lung damage after COVID 19

A study published in EBioMedicine found changes in blood samples from almost 1,000 people hospitalized for COVID-19 may pinpoint patients at risk of long-term lung disease. The study identified elevated levels of certain molecules, which could lead to the development of simple blood tests to detect ongoing lung problems.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026

Native fungi from almond orchards show promise as sustainable defenders against a devastating crop disease

Researchers found that naturally occurring fungi on and within almond trees can strongly suppress Colletotrichum godetiae, the primary cause of almond anthracnose in the Mediterranean Basin. Several species of Trichoderma and Neurospora intermedia proved effective in suppressing pathogen growth and reducing spore production.

Treatment initiation is possible with a positive liquid biopsy in primary central nervous lymphoma patients with difficult-to-access lesions

Researchers successfully diagnosed and treated ten PCNSL patients using liquid biopsy, detecting hotspot MYD88 L265P mutations in circulating tumor DNA. This method offers a reliable alternative to surgical biopsies for patients with difficult-to-access lesions or frailty, enabling timely treatment initiation.

SourceNiigata University·JournalNeuro-Oncology Advances·DateJan 27, 2026

AAVLINK: Potent DNA-recombination method for large cargo delivery in gene therapy

The AAVLINK method harnesses Cre/lox-mediated intermolecular DNA recombination to enable efficient full-length gene reconstitution and robust expression of therapeutic genes. This approach overcomes the limited packaging capacity of adeno-associated viruses, offering a strategy for delivering large gene cargoes in gene therapy.

A tiny fish is helping clinicians avoid unnecessary multi-million-dollar treatment for babies suspected of having spinal muscular atrophy

Researchers developed a rapid zebrafish-based functional assay to determine the pathogenicity of novel SMN1 mutations, potentially informing urgent clinical decisions. The test showed that many previously uncertain variants were harmless, reducing distress for families and saving lives.

SourceGriffith University·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·TypeCase study·DateJan 27, 2026

Delivery of magnetic energy to the brain is a cost-effective treatment option for patients with depression, finds a new study

A new study finds that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a cost-effective treatment option for moderate and severe forms of depression. TMS reduces depressive symptoms, eases pressures on informal carers, and helps people get back to work, recovering its costs over time through savings to the NHS.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBMJ Mental Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 27, 2026

What causes chronic pain? New study identifies key culprit in the brain

Researchers have discovered a neural circuit hidden in an understudied region of the brain plays a critical role in turning temporary pain into chronic pain. Silencing this pathway can prevent or halt chronic pain, offering new hope for treating severe chronic pain with injections or infusions targeting specific brain cells.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNeuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Atlantic nurse sharks show faster growth patterns in Biscayne Bay than nearby Bimini, Bahamas

A new study reveals significant differences in growth patterns between nurse sharks off the coast of Miami and those living just across the Gulf Stream. The research found that juvenile nurse sharks in Biscayne Bay grow more rapidly and reach smaller maximum sizes than their counterparts in Bimini, Bahamas.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalEnvironmental Biology of Fishes·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 27, 2026

Paracetamol and ibuprofen safe in first year of life

A landmark study supports the safety of paracetamol and ibuprofen in young children, finding no link to eczema or bronchiolitis. The study, which analyzed data from over 4,000 babies, confirms that both medications are safe to use in the first year of life.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 27, 2026

Artificial nighttime lighting is suppressing moth activity

A study by University of Exeter researchers found that moths move significantly less under artificial light compared to natural night conditions. The results suggest that light pollution has widespread effects on nocturnal moth activity, irrespective of lighting type, with implications for moth populations and ecosystem services.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateJan 27, 2026

International team led by HonorHealth Research Institute and U of A develop 3D chip platform for laboratory testing in cancer research

Researchers created a 3D chip platform called ASTEROIDS that mimics human physiology and enables precise testing of new drugs and personalized medicine models. The technology has the potential to reduce animal testing in cancer research and improve human clinical outcomes.

SourceHonorHealth Research Institute·JournaliScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 27, 2026

COVID-19 viral fragments shown to target and kill specific immune cells in UCLA-led study

A recent study by a UCLA-led team reveals that leftover COVID-19 viral fragments can selectively accumulate on and penetrate star-shaped surfaces of dendritic cells and T cells, killing these immune cells. In contrast, the omicron variant's smaller fragments have little effect on these cells.

SourceCalifornia NanoSystems Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Badged up for success

Graduate students at MUSC are earning digital badges in science communications, highlighting their ability to explain complex scientific concepts to the public. This program is part of a larger shift towards providing graduate students with valuable skills that apply to multiple career paths in science.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Science·TypeSurvey·DateJan 27, 2026

Speeding, hard braking reduced in insurance plans that base rates on driving behavior, offer rewards

Drivers who participated in a program based on their driving habits showed reduced speeding, hard braking, and rapid acceleration by up to 25%. They continued these safe habits even after the program ended. The programs were equally effective in improving safety scores.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 27, 2026

UH psychologist explores reducing anxiety among survivors of sexual assault

A UH psychologist's study finds that anxiety sensitivity and pain-related anxiety are linked to mental health problems and clinically significant alcohol use among survivors of traumatic sexual assault. The investigation highlights the importance of addressing both types of anxiety in reducing the risk of lifelong challenges.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalThe Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease·DateJan 27, 2026

Claiming your business page on review platforms can have unintended effects on customer reviews, study shows

A study from Florida International University finds that claiming a business page on review platforms like Yelp can lead to a significant drop in average ratings, with a 10% decrease in five-star reviews and a 9.5% rise in one-star reviews. The study also reveals that these lowest-rated reviews become substantially longer and more crit...

SourceFlorida International University·JournalInformation Systems Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026

Inflammation and autoimmune-like dysfunction may play a role in heart failure

A recent study from Penn State College of Medicine researchers found that helper T cells, typically involved in fighting infections, become overly activated in failing human hearts, causing damage. The activation of these T cells highlights the impact of inflammation and immune dysfunction in heart failure.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026

Mount Sinai study finds antibody-producing immune cells can help shape cancer immunotherapy

A Mount Sinai study found that antibody-producing immune cells called IgG1 plasma cells help patients respond to PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have transformed cancer care. The researchers identified IgG1 plasma cells as a critical factor in determining clinical outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 27, 2026

How do nature and nurture shape our immune cells?

Researchers at Salk Institute debut an epigenetic catalog that shows genetic inheritance and life experiences have distinct effects on various types of immune cells, shedding light on individual differences in immune responses and potential new personalized therapeutics.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 27, 2026

Purdue team announces new therapeutic target for breast cancer

A Purdue University team led by Kyle Cottrell has discovered a new therapeutic target for triple-negative breast cancer, a deadly form of breast cancer lacking targeted therapies. The researchers identified dsRNA-binding proteins, specifically PACT, which suppress another protein called RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR).

SourcePurdue University·JournalRNA·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Researchers grow specialized nerve cells that degenerate in ALS/motor neuron disease and are damaged in spinal cord injury

A research team has developed a way to produce corticospinal-like neurons that centrally degenerate in motor neuron disease and are damaged in spinal cord injury. The study uses a multi-component gene-expression system called NVOF to precisely fine tune regulatory signals, resulting in mature neurons with distinct characteristics.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

New international study shows access to patient-reported outcome data improves the consistency of the evaluation of cancer treatment adverse events

A large multinational clinical trial found that giving healthcare providers access to patient-reported outcome (PRO) data significantly improves the consistency of how treatment-related side effects are assessed in patients with cancer. This study highlights the importance of integrating the patient's voice into routine clinical evalua...

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 27, 2026

Researchers advance understanding of female sexual anatomy to improve pelvic cancer radiotherapy

Researchers provide radiation oncologists with practical guidance to identify and protect female sexual organs during pelvic cancer treatment. The study establishes a shared, standardized approach to identifying the bulboclitoris, enabling clinicians to measure radiation dose to these tissues.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 27, 2026

Hospital programs for violence victims can prevent future harm, Boston University study finds

A hospital-based program supporting gun and knife violence victims can halve the likelihood of future harm, according to a Boston University study. Regular engagement with the Violence Intervention Advocacy Program reduced the risk of being revictimized or committing violence by 50 percent two to three years after discharge.

SourceBoston University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026

Insights from brain’s waste-flushing system may improve diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Researchers used MRI analysis to measure glymphatic system activity, finding changes related to IIH stage and pressure levels. The findings suggest a noninvasive test could diagnose IIH more reliably, improving treatment options for patients with symptoms including headaches and vision loss.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of Neuro-Ophthalmology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Deciphering Chaos: A new "Fuzzy" Artificial Intelligence to predict the battle between the immune system and cancer

A new computational modeling framework uses Type-3 Fuzzy Logic and neural networks to simulate tumor-immune dynamics under uncertainty and chaos. The model generates 'bands of uncertainty' and provides interpretable results, enabling physicians to understand the 'why' behind predictions.

SourceEscuela Superior Politecnica del Litoral·JournalInformation Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 27, 2026

Through the looking glass: New framework gives language to representation in children’s books

A new framework for teaching critical consciousness in children's literature empowers kids to analyze texts with metaphorical concepts of mirrors and windows, fostering empathy and respect for diverse perspectives. The framework acknowledges different qualities of reflection, helping prevent prejudice and promoting social justice.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalThe Australian Journal of Language and Literacy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 27, 2026

How to motivate collective action on climate

A Stanford University study found that showcasing past collective efforts on climate change can motivate individuals to take action. The most effective interventions combined evidence of impact with social and emotional benefits, increasing willingness to take public awareness actions by 30% and political actions by nearly 14%.

SourceStanford University·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJan 27, 2026

Scientists engineer unsinkable metal tubes

Researchers at the University of Rochester create a new process to turn ordinary metal tubes unsinkable by etching micro- and nano-pits on their surface, making them superhydrophobic. The tubes stay afloat in water, even when damaged or submerged for extended periods.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJan 27, 2026

Physical activity of adolescents and their parents' mood could be linked

A study by SWPS University researchers found that sedentary lifestyle in adolescents can negatively impact their parents' mental health, leading to symptoms of depression. The study also showed that teenagers spend more time sitting than their parents, highlighting the need for family-based health-promoting interventions.

SourceSWPS University·JournalMental Health and Physical Activity·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026

Systematic preoperative CT assessment of submental island flap vasculature: development of a standardized protocol and characterization of anatomical patterns

A new standardized protocol for preoperative CT assessment of the submental artery's origin and course has been developed, enabling precise visualization of its vascular course and caliber. This systematic approach aims to tailor flap design for individual patients, minimizing intraoperative surprises and optimizing outcomes.

SourceHigher Education Press·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Researchers from HKU Engineering develop deep-learning tools to transform cancer diagnosis and genomic research

Two innovative deep-learning algorithms, ClairS-TO and Clair3-RNA, advance genetic mutation detection in cancer diagnostics and RNA-based genomic studies. The tools improve accuracy and accessibility of genomic analysis, opening new horizons for precision medicine and genomic discovery.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Taking a second to change the time

Researchers from Adelaide University review the future of optical atomic clocks, finding them one of the most precise measurement tools ever built. The technology has advanced rapidly over the past decade and is well-positioned to become the gold standard for timekeeping, provided technical challenges are addressed.

SourceAdelaide University·JournalOptica·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 27, 2026

The world’s most accurate model for predicting bird occurrence is based on the pioneering work of 300,000 mobile app users in Finland

A team of researchers led by Academy Professor Otso Ovaskainen has developed a prediction model that utilizes citizen bird observations alongside cutting-edge information technology. The new model provides the most accurate predictions yet of bird movements and singing activity, enabling anyone to participate in research.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 27, 2026

Kuwait Ministry of Health researchers demonstrate SARS-CoV-2 virus inactivation / destruction using focused sound waves

A team of Kuwait Ministry of Health researchers successfully demonstrated the destruction of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles through exposure to high-frequency sound waves. The findings indicate a functional inactivation of the virus, reducing viral load and offering a measurable endpoint for assessing viral inactivation.

SourceMinistry of Health·JournalViruses·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

A rich social environment is associated with better cognitive health outcomes for older adults, study finds

A recent study published in Aging & Mental Health found a strong association between social connection and cognitive function in older adults. The researchers created profiles of social environments based on data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging and found that intermediate and richer social profiles were linked to better c...

SourceMcGill University·JournalAging & Mental Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 27, 2026

A mortise-tenon joint inspired interface structure design for synergistically enhancing the mechanical properties and thermal shock resistance of Cf/(HfNbTaTiZr)C-SiC composites

A new interface structure design inspired by traditional Chinese mortise and tenon structures improves the mechanical properties and thermal shock resistance of Cf/(HfNbTaTiZr)C-SiC composites. The resulting composite exhibits higher flexural strength and fracture toughness compared to samples without the mortise-tenon structure.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateJan 27, 2026

The Future of Hong Kong Economy Conference 2026 explores sustainable growth in Hong Kong’s economic development

The conference addressed pressing issues including innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. Keynote speakers emphasized the importance of a predictable environment, comprehensive professional services ecosystem, and connectivity in driving business growth. Hong Kong's unique role as a super connector and value adder was highlighted.

Wild blueberries: New review explores benefits for heart, metabolism and the microbiome

A new scientific review summarizes 12 human clinical trials on the cardiometabolic effects of wild blueberries, finding improvements in blood vessel function and beneficial changes to the gut microbiome. Regular consumption of one cup per day may support overall health benefits.

SourceWild Blueberry Association of North America·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 27, 2026

Smart correction: gradient graphene enables self-aligned laser transfer

Researchers developed a new method for self-aligned laser transfer printing using Thermal Conductivity Gradient Carbon (TCGC) stamp, ensuring synchronous chip release and mitigating transfer errors. The SALT technique enables heterogeneous integration of diverse micro-objects onto various challenging surfaces with high accuracy and siz...

ABATaRs, sensitive molecular probes for multiplexed bio-imaging in live cells

Researchers have developed molecular probes called ABATaRs to detect biomolecules using standard Raman microscopes. These new sensors can detect biomolecules at low micromolar concentrations and function as ratiometric sensors, allowing for simultaneous detection of multiple molecules in live cells.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Arctic seas are getting louder as ice melts, posing risks – study shows how to better measure noise

The Arctic is experiencing a rise in human-generated underwater noise due to melting ice and increased activity, disrupting wildlife and local communities. A new study from the University of Bath provides a clear framework for monitoring noise in Arctic waters, urging authorities to revise thresholds used to assess noise levels.

SourceUniversity of Bath·Journalnpj Acoustics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

HKUMed develops novel live-attenuated vaccine that blocks coronavirus transmission with a single intranasal dose

The University of Hong Kong's research team developed a novel live-attenuated vaccine, cb1, generating broad immunity against beta-coronaviruses with a single intranasal dose. The vaccine effectively blocks viral transmission in animal models, offering a promising strategy for pandemic preparedness.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Should companies replace human workers with robots? New study takes a closer look

A recent study from Binghamton University School of Management reveals that focusing on human-robot collaboration can generate additional economic value and improve a company's ability to capture a greater share of the competitive market. By leveraging robots in collaborative settings, organizations can foster a positive sense of commi...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Organizational Behavior·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 27, 2026

Engineering and the quest for peace

Researchers propose an expansive mode of engineering practice that seeks to reduce conflict through the design of technologies like solar panels and water pipelines. The authors argue that procurement, education, and institutional support are necessary for peace engineering to become the norm.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJan 27, 2026

Interventions that promote collective climate action

Research finds that framing pro-environmental behavior as patriotic and highlighting successful examples of collective action significantly increase public awareness advocacy, financial advocacy, and political advocacy. This megastudy provides insights to guide those who wish to galvanize the public for collective climate action.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJan 27, 2026

Identification of the central pathological substrate of bipolar disorder as paraventricular thalamic nucleus

The study reveals that the paraventricular thalamic nucleus (PVT) is the central pathological substrate of bipolar disorder, with notable alterations in cell number and gene expression. This discovery highlights the PVT as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for improving patient outcomes.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

A new route to synthesize multiple functionalized carbon nanohoops

Researchers develop versatile molecular platform to synthesize multiple functionalized carbon nanohoops, exhibiting high circularly polarized luminescence and other advanced photophysical properties. The breakthrough method enables multi-site functionalization and creation of chiral nanohoops with remarkable optical performance.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

New study proposes global framework to safeguard world’s most vulnerable regions amid climate crisis

A new study proposes a global framework to protect the world's most vulnerable regions from catastrophic tipping points due to climate change and human pressure. The research integrates artificial intelligence with Indigenous knowledge to guide sustainable development and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

SourceEcosystem Health and Sustainability·JournalEcosystem Health and Sustainability·TypeCase study·DateJan 27, 2026

Chungnam National University develops AI model to accelerate defect-based material design

Researchers at Chungnam National University have developed an AI model that uses deep learning to predict stable defect configurations in materials. The model, trained on data generated by conventional simulations, can generate results in milliseconds rather than hours, accelerating the material design process.

SourceChungnam National University Evaluation Team·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Applied physics researchers explore impact of mathematically structured sound to selectively interact with cells.

Researchers at Applied Physics explored whether mathematical acoustic signal structure can influence cellular response independent of intensity. Preliminary evidence suggests that cells respond most strongly at different wavelength regimes, suggesting acoustic selectivity may be achievable through signal design.

SourceApplied Physics PBC·JournalBiosystems·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026

New study redefines our understanding of how memory works

Researchers found no difference in neural activity between successful semantic and episodic retrieval, challenging long-standing research tradition. This overlap suggests that the whole brain is involved in different types of memory, potentially leading to new interventions for diseases like dementia and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Prenatal exposure to air pollution is associated with lower cognitive performance in early childhood

A new study found that prenatal exposure to air pollution is associated with lower cognitive performance in newborns, with stronger associations observed for black carbon and PM2.5. The strongest effects were seen in boys, suggesting potential sex-specific vulnerability.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026