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Science News for January 28, 2026


AI and new sensing tools are reshaping collective animal behavior research

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New research enables safe reuse of concrete

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SourceFlinders University·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

Embedding critical thinking from a young age

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UT Health San Antonio research shows Alzheimer’s prevention potential in pairing cannabis ingredient, anti-inflammatory drug

A new study led by Dr. Chu Chen suggests that combining THC with celecoxib may improve cognition and reduce Alzheimer's-related brain pathology in mice. The combination produced better outcomes than low-dose THC alone, including improved learning and memory performance and reduced markers of neuroinflammation.

SourceThe University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center·JournalAging and Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Alliance Foundation Trials phase III PATINA study results published in the New England Journal of Medicine

The phase III PATINA study demonstrated that adding CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib to standard maintenance therapy significantly prolongs progression-free survival by more than 15 months compared to standard therapy alone. The study found a meaningful improvement in median PFS with no new signals.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 28, 2026

AI tool helps predict which patients need continued care after leaving the hospital

An AI tool developed by researchers at NYU Langone Health can accurately predict which patients will require skilled nursing facilities after leaving the hospital, enabling faster and more effective discharge planning. The tool uses short summaries of doctor notes to identify key risk factors and predicts patient needs with 88% accuracy.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·Journalnpj Health Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Support stops at the checkout line: Consumer stigma undermines ‘impact hiring’ initiatives

A new study reveals that consumers who morally support companies hiring homeless individuals often drop purchase intentions due to irrational 'contagion concerns', triggered by emotional reactions linked to stereotypes about hygiene and safety. Social proof appeals can counteract this bias, increasing purchase likelihood.

SourcePortland State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJan 28, 2026

How to incentivize problem solving in groups

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that rewarding 'reformers' who improve the collective prediction regardless of their own personal accuracy leads to more accurate and diverse outcomes. This approach is more effective than rewarding 'niche experts' or 'experts', which can lead to a loss of diversity and accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 28, 2026

Discovery shines light on a cascade of events that occurs when toxic tau impacts synapses, suggesting new mechanisms for neurodegeneration

Researchers developed a new tool to track changes in the synaptic proteome over time, correlating changes to synaptic dysregulation and synapse loss. The results suggest that toxic tau oligomers impact postsynaptic structures first, leading to a dynamic cascade of events that contribute to neurodegeneration.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Preparedness for future pandemics: MERS vaccine candidate shows long-lasting immune response

A new MERS vaccine candidate has shown a stable and functional immune response in humans that persists for at least two years after a booster vaccination. The study demonstrates that such durable immunity can be achieved through targeted booster vaccinations, providing an important step toward an effective MERS vaccine.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 28, 2026

Markers at birth may help predict type 1 diabetes

Scientists at the University of Florida and Linköping University discovered protein markers in umbilical cord blood associated with future insulin-dependent diabetes. The study suggests that these markers can be used to predict type 1 diabetes in early childhood, potentially allowing for targeted interventions and lifestyle changes.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 2026

Older adults who are afraid of falls use protective strategies when turning to keep their balance

Researchers found that older adults who are afraid of falls employ adaptive strategies, such as limiting side-to-side body sway or swaying more slowly, to stabilize during turns. This suggests that these slower movements may not be indicative of poor balance but rather a means to stay steady and safe during complex maneuvers.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 28, 2026

Using AI to uncover the secret lives of fungi

A new study using AI-powered BioBERT model accurately identifies fungal lifestyles, switching between helpful partner for plants to aggressive decomposers. The tool has nearly 90% accuracy and can scan thousands of papers in minutes, flagging species that may switch roles.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalResearch Ideas and Outcomes·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 28, 2026

California Office of Traffic Safety awards $850,000 grant to the UC Irvine School of Medicine to broaden the UC Traffic Safety Collaborative Program

The UC Irvine School of Medicine has been awarded a $850,000 grant by the California Office of Traffic Safety to broaden the UC Traffic Safety Collaborative Program. The program aims to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities in California through education, research, and enforcement.

American Meteorological Society expands access to scholarly publications to support IPCC seventh assessment report

The American Meteorological Society has partnered with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to provide IPCC authors with access to peer-reviewed scientific publications. This collaboration ensures equitable access to critical climate science for researchers worldwide, particularly those from developing countries and fac...

DAC expands early detection implementation network to advance early detection of cognitive impairment in primary care settings

Two U.S. healthcare systems, Tufts Medicine and University of Utah Health, will implement the DAC-SP Early Detection Blueprint across ten primary care sites to improve early detection of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. The initiative aims to refine a replicable model for early detection that can be adopted nationwide.

In rare cases, autoantibodies can cause severe reactions to a live-attenuated virus Chikungunya vaccine that has been discontinued in the U.S.

A new study suggests that preexisting autoantibodies in a small subset of the population can cause severe reactions to the live-attenuated Chikungunya vaccine. Researchers recommend screening people with these autoantibodies before vaccination, especially for those over age 65.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2026

Innovative ‘poop pills’ show promising results in clinical trials for multiple types of cancer

Two Canadian clinical trials have shown that fecal microbiota transplants (FMT) can improve the response to immunotherapy in patients with lung cancer and melanoma. FMT capsules were found to reduce toxic side effects of kidney cancer treatment, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes.

SourceLondon Health Sciences Centre Research Institute·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 28, 2026

Study finds multiple sources of pollution in Virginia's Lake Anna

A University of Virginia study reveals phosphorus pollution in Lake Anna comes from multiple sources, including homes and abandoned mines. Elevated levels of arsenic, lead, and copper were found near mining sites, highlighting the need for broader strategies to address nutrient and metal pollution.

SourceUniversity of Virginia College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateJan 28, 2026

Clinical trial of early morning shift workers shows promise of new drug for reducing excessive sleepiness

A new clinical trial found that solriamfetol helped early morning shift workers with shift work disorder stay more alert and report better overall functioning. The study, published in NEJM Evidence, enrolled 78 early-morning shift workers and showed significant improvement in sleepiness and daily activities after four weeks of treatment.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 28, 2026

Diagnosis of cardiomyopathy is on the rise

A new study from Uppsala University reveals a substantial increase in cardiomyopathy diagnoses in Sweden between 2004 and 2023, associated with high excess mortality rates. The study highlights the need for improved detection and targeted treatments to address this growing public health concern.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 2026

Hearing angry or happy human voices is linked to changes in dogs’ balance

A study found that dogs experience changes in balance when hearing angry or happy human voices. Angry voices were most strongly associated with destabilization, while happy voices led to both stabilization and destabilization in some cases. The research suggests that emotional arousal may play a role in the dogs' responses.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Your neighborhood, plus emotional stress, may be aging you prematurely

A recent study found that living in a disadvantaged neighborhood is associated with biological symptoms of accelerated aging. The researchers also discovered that emotional distress accounts for a significant portion of these effects. Anxiety appeared to be a major mediator between exposure and epigenetic aging.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series B·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 28, 2026

New JAMA Commentary calls for evidence-backed dietary guidelines

The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans have been criticized for prioritizing meat, dairy, and processed foods over fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine argues that the guidelines ignore scientific evidence and are influenced by industry interests.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 28, 2026

Universal method could transform the future of bone transplantation

Researchers at Lund University developed a universal method for creating cell-free cartilage structures that guide bone repair without triggering strong immune responses. The successful test in animal models paves the way for human trials and the potential to transform the future of bone transplantation.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Light changes a magnet’s polarity

Scientists at University of Basel and ETH in Zurich successfully changed the polarity of a ferromagnet using a laser beam. The breakthrough method could be used to create adaptive electronic circuits that can be controlled by light.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

CNIC scientists uncover a novel mechanism involved in inflammation resolution

A study published in Immunity reveals that type I interferons (IFN-I) help resolve inflammation by inducing changes in macrophage mitochondria, improving their ability to remove dead cells. The researchers found that treatment with IFN-I increases macrophage uptake of apoptotic cells and reduces the expression of inflammatory genes.

How your lifestyle can affect your risk of dementia

A new study from Lund University finds that modifiable risk factors like smoking and high blood pressure can damage brain blood vessels and increase dementia risk. Living a healthy lifestyle may help delay symptom onset in Alzheimer's disease.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer s Disease·TypeCase study·DateJan 28, 2026

Study identifies PARG as a new target to enhance chemotherapy in colorectal cancer

A study led by researchers from the Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute has identified PARG as a new target to enhance chemotherapy in colorectal cancer. Inhibition of PARG significantly increases the cytotoxic effect of chemotherapy, leading to enhanced cell death and apoptosis in different colorectal cancer models.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Caesarean sections for sale

A systematic review of 12 million births in 25 European countries found that private hospitals have a significantly higher caesarean section rate than public hospitals. Among low-risk first-time mothers, the increase in caesarean sections is attributed to non-medical factors such as local routines and financial incentives.

SourceLund University·JournalEuropean Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 28, 2026

New ERC Proof of Concept for CiQUS: ZEST, an innovative solution for sustainable energy storage

CiQUS researcher María Giménez López leads ZEST project to develop hybrid battery based on zinc, bromine, and manganese dioxide, offering safer and scalable solutions. The project aims to create stable, efficient, and cost-effective energy storage systems with industrial partners like Fraunhofer ISE.

Can AI understand the human brain better than humans?

A novel AI framework uses speech patterns to detect cognitive decline years before traditional tools can, offering non-invasive screening for neurodegenerative conditions. The approach analyzes complex dynamics and transitions hidden in speech to reveal subtle patterns and extract objective biomarkers from natural patient behavior.

SourcePenn State·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 28, 2026

Efficacy of immunosuppressive regimens for survival of stem cell-derived grafts

A new study has identified optimized immunosuppressive strategies that allow transplanted iPSC-CMs to survive without immune rejection in non-human primates. The researchers found a triple-drug regimen consisting of methylprednisolone, calcineurin inhibitors, and mycophenolate mofetil reliably prevents acute immune rejection.

SourceShinshu University·JournalCardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Most EV charging stations are out of walking distance for older Montrealers, Concordia research shows

A Concordia University study reveals that nearly half of Montreal's elderly care facilities lack public EV charging stations within a 15-minute walk. This limits access not only for residents but also for caregivers and staff. Strategically placing new chargers in underserved areas can improve accessibility without expanding the network.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Urban Mobility·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 28, 2026

Overlooked threat: dams trigger temperature-driven disease in iconic salmonid fish

A new study reveals that small river impoundments significantly elevate water temperatures and increase the pathogenic impact of Proliferative Kidney Disease (PKD) among brown trout. Dams create hotspots for the myxozoan parasite Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae, leading to higher infection prevalence and severe disease progression.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 2026

Researchers develop high-performance vacuum ultraviolet nonlinear optical crystal ABF

The development of fluorooxoborate crystal NH4B4O6F (ABF) resolves the field challenge of meeting all criteria for VUV NLO materials. ABF achieves excellent VUV transparency, a strong NLO coefficient, and substantial birefringence while fulfilling practical criteria such as large crystal size and high laser-induced damage threshold.

Applications of artificial intelligence and smart devices in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

This review synthesizes current applications of AI and smart devices in MASLD care, discussing their benefits and limitations. AI models leverage EHR, laboratory data, and multi-omics information to predict risk and severity, while also enhancing medical imaging interpretation and liver histopathology assessment.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJan 28, 2026

New clinical trial demonstrates that eating beef each day does not affect risk factors for type 2 diabetes

A randomized controlled trial with 24 adults found that consuming 6-7 ounces of beef per day did not impact risk factors for type 2 diabetes or other cardiometabolic health markers. The study suggests that regular beef intake supports heart health and does not adversely affect blood sugar regulation or inflammation.

SourceIndiana University School of Public Health·JournalCurrent Developments in Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 28, 2026

Up to 31.3% body weight loss, Insilico Medicine nominates AI-powered GIPR antagonist ISM0676 as preclinical candidate, showing synergistic efficacy in combination therapy

ISM0676 demonstrates excellent metabolic stability, superior efficacy at low doses, and a favorable safety profile, leading to significant body weight reduction and improved body composition. The compound's synergistic efficacy with Semaglutide supports its further clinical development as an obesity treatment.

Study reveals value of roadkill for scientific research

A review of 300 peer-reviewed studies found roadkill being used to map species distributions, monitor disease and environmental pollution, study diets, track invasive species, supply museum collections, and discover new species. This approach offers ethical advantages by avoiding live capture and handling.

SourceRMIT University·JournalBiology Letters·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 28, 2026

ATP-binding cassette transporter defects and their roles in hepatic diseases

ABCA–ABCG transporters play a crucial role in biliary secretion, with mutations leading to various hepatobiliary disorders. Next-generation genetic testing enables tailored management, while emerging therapies hold promise for cholestatic diseases. Genetic counseling is recommended for family planning and risk assessment.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJan 28, 2026

SLAS receives grant from Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to develop lab automation educational guidelines

The Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS) has developed a comprehensive framework to educate scientists on laboratory automation, addressing the growing gap between technology adoption and training pathways. The project aims to create shared standards for automation education, expanding access to training across instit...

Serum interleukin-8 for differentiating invasive pulmonary aspergillosis from bacterial pneumonia in patients with HBV-associated acute-on-chronic liver failure

A study found that serum interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels can differentiate invasive pulmonary aspergillosis from bacterial pneumonia in patients with HBV-associated acute-on-chronic liver failure. IL-6 levels were significantly higher in IPA patients compared to non-infection controls.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJan 28, 2026

A randomized trial evaluating an unmedicated acne-concealing hydrogel patch on the appearance of acne and its psychological impact on quality of life

A randomized, open-label trial evaluated an unmedicated acne-concealing hydrogel patch on appearance and psychological impact. The treatment group experienced significant reductions in lesion size and severity, as well as improved quality of life scores.

SourceJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Bitter taste receptors at the interface between nutrition, the endocrine system, and health

Research shows that bitter taste receptors can be activated by steroid hormones, influencing physiological processes. The study found that certain hormone types, like progesterone and testosterone, activate these receptors, which may play a role in pregnancy-related taste changes or stress-induced physiological responses.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

TF-rs1049296 C>T variant modifies the association between hepatic iron stores and liver fibrosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

A study found that the TF-rs1049296 C>T variant is associated with a higher risk of significant liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD, particularly in those with RES iron deposition. The variant was also linked to increased risk of SF in mixed hepatocellular/RES iron deposition patterns.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJan 28, 2026

Understanding how smart polymer solutions transition to gels around body temperature

A team of researchers from Chiba University discovered the structural evolution of poloxamer mixtures at different temperatures, enabling customized gelation behavior. Their findings support precise design of sustained-release formulations for localized therapies, enhancing drug retention and minimizing side effects.

SourceChiba University·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Do men develop cardiovascular disease earlier than women?

A recent study analyzed data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study and found that men developed coronary heart disease 10 years before women. The study indicates that this sex gap remains, with men having a higher cumulative incidence of cardiovascular disease and its subtypes.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJan 28, 2026

Fecal microbiota transplantation improves response to immunotherapy in advanced kidney cancer: TACITO study published in Nature Medicine

A new study found that fecal microbiota transplantation can enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with advanced metastatic renal cell carcinoma. The research showed improved clinical outcomes, including longer progression-free survival and higher response rates, in patients who received donor-derived fecal microbiota t...

SourceUniversita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 28, 2026

Being a night owl may increase your heart risk

Middle-aged and older adults who were more active in the evenings had poorer cardiovascular health compared to their peers who were more active during the day. This study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, found that evening chronotypes are associated with behaviors that can affect cardiovascular health, such ...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJan 28, 2026

Fast-growing trees are taking over the forests of the future and putting biodiversity and climate resilience under pressure

The world's forests are becoming homogenized, with fast-growing tree species dominating landscapes. Biodiversity is declining as slow-growing, specialized species disappear, compromising ecosystem stability and carbon storage. Active ecosystem management is essential to halt the loss of these threatened species.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Plants·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 28, 2026

Research Spotlight: a new “lab-on-a-disc” device paves the way for more automated liquid biopsies

Researchers developed an innovative centrifugal system called SpinEx that separates plasma, enriches EVs, and labels proteins in one device. The technology enables fast and automated EV isolation from small blood volumes, accurately distinguishing cancer from non-cancer samples and identifying specific tumor types.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 28, 2026

Parental firearm injury linked to increased mental health burden in children

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that children whose parents were injured by firearms experience substantial mental health impacts, with a 42% increase in psychiatric diagnoses and 60% increase in mental health visits. Early, targeted interventions are needed to address this growing need.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 28, 2026

How does TikTok shape young peoples' dietary preferences?

A study found that TikTok influences dietary habits by leveraging algorithmic mechanisms, entertainment content, and users' emotional connections. The platform affects food preferences, dining choices, and recipe evaluations among young people.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Consumer Studies·DateJan 28, 2026

Does screen time affect teens’ sleep and lifestyle habits?

A study of 700 teens found that screen time negatively affects sleep quality and beliefs about healthy lifestyles. The researchers suggest reducing screen exposure, increasing social interaction, and promoting alternative activities to promote healthier lifestyles and better sleep.

SourceWiley·JournalBrain and Behavior·DateJan 28, 2026

International differences exist in knowledge gaps and most common perimenopause symptoms

A new study based on data from over 17,000 women across 158 countries found inconsistent knowledge of perimenopause symptoms and actual experiences. Commonly recognized symptoms included hot flashes, sleep problems, and weight gain, but women most reported experiencing fatigue, physical and mental exhaustion, and irritability.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 28, 2026