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Science News for January 29, 2026


HSE scientists uncover how authoritativeness shapes trust

Researchers at HSE Institute for Cognitive Neuroscience found that people tend to trust the current opinion of an authoritative speaker even when new statements contradict their previous position. The study used AI-generated audio recordings of celebrities with opposing views on COVID-19 vaccination and found that participants rated th...

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalNeuroImage·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

3D covalent organic framework offers sustainable solution for wastewater treatment

Researchers from Tohoku University developed a 3D covalent organic framework (COF) that enables efficient and selective removal of anionic dyes from contaminated water. The COF, TU-123, demonstrates high adsorption capacity and removal efficiency, making it a promising solution for advanced wastewater purification technologies.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 29, 2026

High-frequency investor sentiment from online forums enhances stock return predictions

Researchers found that intraday high-frequency sentiment, especially from non-trading periods, can capture nuanced market dynamics and improve daily return forecasts. This study demonstrates the potential of using online forum data to enhance stock return predictions in a highly sentiment-driven market.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalChina Finance Review International·TypeNews article·DateJan 29, 2026

Integrated health surveillance and early warning systems in China under the One Health perspective: progress and challenges

China has experienced multiple emerging infectious disease events, emphasizing the need for early detection and effective public health responses. A research team outlines an 'environment–animal–human' integrated framework to break down data silos and enable early warning and coordinated responses.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalScience in One Health·TypeNews article·DateJan 29, 2026

From craft dust to green gold: Turning palm handicraft waste into high value bio based chemicals

Researchers discovered that mannan rich palm handicraft residues, particularly tagua nut and bodhi root powders, can be converted into levomannosan and related furan compounds at moderate temperatures. This process provides a practical guide for using handicraft waste as a controlled chemical feedstock.

New roadmap shows how to turn farm nitrogen models into real world water quality gains

A new review proposes a spatial optimization framework to address the slow underground pathways of nitrate nitrogen, which can take decades to show up in river outlets. The framework considers legacy nitrogen, farmer adoption probabilities, and institutional settings to create more realistic and economically viable conservation programs.

Heart damage is common after an operation and often goes unnoticed, but patients who see a cardiologist may be less likely to die or suffer heart disease as a result

Researchers found that patients seen by cardiologists had lower mortality rates and fewer serious heart problems, including heart attack, sudden failure, or irregular heartbeat. The study suggests close teamwork between surgical and heart teams can improve outcomes after major surgery.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2026

Research spotlight: Discovering risk factors for long-term relapse in alcohol use disorder

Research identifies reduction in recovery focus as most prevalent and potent contributor to long-term relapse, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and proactive interventions. The study highlights the need for integrated biopsychosocial disease-management models to address complex relapse risk factors.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 29, 2026

Kissing the sun: Unraveling mysteries of the solar wind

A University of Arizona-led research team has measured the dynamics and ever-changing hot gas shell from where the solar wind originates. The study helps scientists answer fundamental questions about energy and matter moving through the heliosphere, affecting space weather events and planetary orbits.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2026

To reduce CO2 emissions, policy on carbon pricing, taxation and investment in renewable energy is key

A new study evaluates climate policies in 40 countries, finding that a comprehensive toolkit including carbon pricing, taxation, and renewable energy investments is most effective. Countries like Australia, Canada, and Japan have substantial potential to strengthen their climate performance by increasing fossil fuel excise taxes.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalClimate Policy·DateJan 29, 2026

As fossil fuel use declines, experts urge planning and coordination to prevent chaotic collapse

Researchers identify vulnerabilities in three major sectors: physical, financial, and managerial 'cliffs' that could trigger localized energy crises and price shocks. Policymakers are urged to adopt managed decline strategies to avoid disruption of services and stabilize the mid-transition period to zero carbon energy.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2026

Machine learning reveals how to maximize biochar yield from algae

Researchers developed a machine learning framework that accurately predicts and optimizes biochar production from algae, identifying temperature as the dominant control on biochar yield. The model achieved strong agreement with experimental results and was able to pinpoint key factors influencing biochar production.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

MXene nanomaterials enter a new dimension

Scientists at Drexel University have developed a scalable method for producing one-dimensional MXene nanoscrolls, offering superior electrical conductivity and mechanical strength. The new material shows promise in applications such as energy storage devices, biosensors, and wearable technology.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Mapping the magnetic field of the Milky Way

Researchers mapped the northern sky across different radio frequencies to create a high-quality dataset of the galaxy's magnetic field structure. The data provides insight into how the magnetic field evolved and includes a new three-dimensional model for the reversal in the Sagittarius Arm.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeSurvey·DateJan 29, 2026

New map of the Milky Way’s magnetism offers insights into cosmic evolution

Researchers have created the first broadband map of Faraday rotation, revealing a complex magnetic field in the Milky Way. The dataset, DRAGONS, captures polarized radio emissions across a wide range of frequencies, allowing astronomers to see magnetic structures invisible before.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2026

UBC study finds research in exercise physiology still fails women

A UBC study found that exercise physiology research predominantly focuses on male bodies and voices, while women are underrepresented as participants and researchers. The study highlights the need for greater equity in exercise physiology research to improve understanding of sex-based differences in physiology and treatment.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalApplied Physiology Nutrition and Metabolism·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 29, 2026

Pharmacogenomic study with Estonian Biobank participants reveals functional impact of rare CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 variants

A pharmacokinetic recall study involving 114 Estonian Biobank participants reveals functional impact of rare CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 variants. These variants significantly affect how drugs are processed in the human body, emphasizing the need to look beyond common pharmacogenetic markers.

SourceEstonian Research Council·Journalnpj Genomic Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 29, 2026

For the first time, a study characterizes the sounds of the flying gurnard, offering clues to its communication

A new study characterizes the sounds produced by flying gurnards, revealing two distinct types of grunt-like sounds that differ in duration, frequency, and rhythm. The researchers also found that juveniles under 10 cm in length produce sounds from an early developmental stage.

SourceFaculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon·JournalJournal of Zoology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Immunotherapy reduces plaque in arteries of mice

A novel antibody-based therapy has been shown to reduce plaque in the arteries of mice, eliminating harmful immune cells that drive inflammation and unstable plaque formation. This immunotherapy could complement traditional methods and help patients with advanced coronary artery disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2026

Tracking Finland’s ice fishers reveals how social information guides foraging decisions

A new study reveals that human foragers heavily rely on social information when making decisions during ice fishing competitions. They adapt their behaviors based on what they observe from others, such as where competitors fish and how long they stay. This finding provides insight into how groups collectively respond to environmental c...

Early recognition and surgical management key in necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck

Early recognition and surgical management are crucial in treating necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck, a rare but life-threatening soft tissue infection. The authors emphasize the urgent need for coordinated care, including immediate surgery, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and airway protection to reduce mortality rates.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeNews article·DateJan 29, 2026

York U study finds forever chemical plumets in urban atmosphere during pandemic

Researchers found significant decline of atmospheric trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in Toronto during COVID-19, suggesting its sources and enabling future reduction strategies. The decrease is attributed to short-lived chemical precursors emitted into the atmosphere, offering new hope for mitigating this persistent pollutant.

SourceYork University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Heat, Sweat, and Motion: A wearable hydrogel for real-time cardiorespiratory monitoring

Researchers developed a stretchable, skin-like hydrogel sensor to monitor heart rate and breathing during intense physical activity. The dual-network hydrogel maintains stable performance in high temperatures and humidity, enabling accurate real-time tracking of pulse and respiration.

The Frontiers of Knowledge Award goes to Joan Daemen and Vincent Rijmen for designing the cryptographic system that protects the security of electronic devices and digital connections worldwide

The Rijndael algorithm, created by Daemen and Rijmen in 1997, has become the international standard for encrypting data, safeguarding websites, laptops, mobile phones, and more. Its security has withstood 25 years of attacks, making it a crucial backbone of trust in the digital world.

How uranium from mining enters the environment

A study investigates uranium exposure in children living near gold mining dumps and finds higher levels of uranium in their hair compared to children from reference sites. The study collected over 400 hair samples and analyzed them alongside information on the children's age, gender, and living conditions.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalEnvironmental Geochemistry and Health·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Strategic tree planting brings meaningful carbon reductions

A new study suggests that strategic tree planting in Canada's northern forests could remove at least five times the country's annual carbon emissions, totaling around 19 gigatons by 2100. This would be a significant step towards Canada's goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 and meeting its commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 29, 2026

Male or female? How evolution rewired sex determination in one frog species

A recent study reveals how one frog species evolved its own distinct genetic system for determining sex. In the frog species Xenopus laevis, a gene called dm-w prompts female development, while without its influence, frogs become male. The evolution of this gene arose recently in these frogs and differs from humans and other vertebrates.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

From blood tests to skin sensors: How aptamers enable real-time biomarker tracking

Aptamer-based wearable electrochemical sensors offer a promising alternative for continuous biomarker monitoring, providing dynamic insights into health status. These sensors leverage aptamer properties for high sensitivity and reversible binding, enabling real-time tracking of physiological signals.

The ACHILLES project will train a new generation of researchers in experimental haemato-oncology to tackle leukemia and lymphoma

The ACHILLES project trains researchers in experimental haematological oncology, developing advanced models, analysis tools, and therapeutic targets for leukaemia and lymphoma. The project aims to bridge basic and preclinical research with clinical practice, improving survival rates and accessibility to innovative treatments.

Bone marrow metastasis of non-hematolymphoid malignancies: a 10-year retrospective experience from a single academic institution

This study analyzed clinical and pathological characteristics of bone marrow metastasis from non-hematolymphoid malignancies. Prostate and breast carcinomas were the most common malignancies associated with BMM, and anti-neoplastic treatments improved overall survival.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Pathology·DateJan 29, 2026

New England Journal of Medicine publishes phase 3 PATINA trial data demonstrating a significant progression-free survival benefit with palbociclib in metastatic HR+, HER2+ breast cancer

The PATINA trial demonstrates a significant progression-free survival benefit with palbociclib in patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) metastatic breast cancer. The study showed a median progression-free survival of 44.3 months, compared to 29.1 months in the control arm.

SourcePrECOG, LLC·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 29, 2026

Electric eel biology inspires powerful gel battery

Researchers at Penn State develop a hydrogel-based battery that mimics the electrical processes of electric eels, producing higher power densities than previous designs. The battery is non-toxic, flexible, and environmentally stable, making it suitable for biomedical applications.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

A promising new method for early warning of volcanic eruptions

Researchers have developed a new detection method called 'Jerk' that can identify extremely subtle ground movements as precursors of volcanic eruptions. The method was tested at a volcano observatory on La Réunion island and predicted 92% of eruptions between 2014 and 2023, with warning times ranging from minutes to hours.

SourceGFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2026

Artificial lung system keeps patient alive without lungs until transplant

Researchers have created an artificial lung system that temporarily replaced a patient's lungs' functions, allowing him to survive for 48 hours until a double lung transplant was available. The study shows that this approach may serve as a life-saving bridge to transplantation, providing new hope for those with severe respiratory condi...

SourceCell Press·JournalMed·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Mitochondria as control centers of cell communication

Mitochondria serve as signaling platforms linking metabolic states to inflammatory responses, while also emitting signals that influence cellular decisions. This understanding is crucial for comprehending their role in health and disease, potentially leading to targeted interventions for pathological signaling processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeSurvey·DateJan 29, 2026

Concordia study finds snow droughts in western and southern Canada could affect nearly all Canadians

A new method developed by Concordia researchers shows how small but widespread snowpack declines can ripple across Canada's water supply. The study found that usable snow water has declined sharply in areas of the Canadian Rockies, affecting a quarter of Canada's land mass and 86% of its population.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2026

Climate change is reshaping how companies do business

New research shows that climate change is driving companies to diversify their customer base to reduce reliance on a few major buyers. This shift is particularly pronounced among firms with strong corporate social responsibility performance and heavy investment in physical assets.

SourceUniversity of East London·JournalBusiness Strategy and the Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2026

Study revealed brain stimulation may improve attention but also heighten threat sensitivity in individuals with anxious depression

A new study found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can enhance task engagement and activation of brain regions associated with executive function in individuals with comorbid anxiety and depression. However, it unexpectedly heightened sensitivity to threats, including increased eyeblink startle response under conditi...

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

From biocidal coatings to medicines: A nanocomposite sting for microorganisms

The B-STING silica nanocomposite acts as a nanofactory of reactive oxygen species, activating itself in response to changes in the chemical environment. This material can be used to create biocidal coatings that are safe, durable, and resistant to dirt, with potential applications in medicine and other industries.

Incheon National University researchers uncover hidden toxin risks during nutrient-starved algal blooms

Researchers from Incheon National University found that extended nutrient deprivation can significantly increase toxin content per cell in P. lima, even when cell numbers remain stable. This suggests that toxin risk may increase quietly under nutrient-poor conditions without obvious bloom expansion.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalHarmful Algae·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

High-deductible health plans and mortality among cancer survivors

A cross-sectional analysis of nationwide population data reveals that high-deductible health plans are associated with worse overall and cancer-specific survival among cancer survivors. The study suggests that financial disincentives for medical care may lead to delayed or foregone necessary care, ultimately worsening cancer outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 29, 2026

Cancer incidence and mortality with aspirin in older adults

A recent study found that low-dose aspirin use was not associated with incident cancer incidence in older adults, contrary to previous findings. However, the study revealed a significant elevation in cancer mortality risk during the randomized clinical trial period, which did not persist after the trial ended.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJan 29, 2026

New approach to plastic recycling: Worcester Polytechnic Institute Chemical Engineering researchers co-author study

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a new technology for plastic recycling that uses aqueous chemi-mechanical recycling to blend, decolorize, and purify mixed polyolefins. This approach reduces energy consumption and eliminates toxic chemicals compared to existing methods.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateJan 29, 2026

Family care expectations clash with shrinking availability, dementia needs

A new University of Michigan study reveals that family structures and changing population demographics affect caregiving expectations. The study found that public perceptions of responsibility vary by relationship type, including a higher expectation for family members to care for older adults with dementia. Researchers emphasize the n...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Behavior & Socioeconomics of Aging·DateJan 29, 2026

Traditional and novel virologic markers for functional cure and HBeAg loss with pegylated interferon in chronic hepatitis B

A systematic review and meta-analysis of pegylated interferon treatment found HBsAg decline at week 24 to be the best predictor of functional cure, while on-treatment HBV RNA levels were most reliable for HBeAg loss. Novel virologic markers were less effective than traditional indicators.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJan 29, 2026

Lignin nanoparticles enable recyclable paper to rival plastic packaging

Researchers develop a coating strategy using lignin nanoparticles to stabilize an oil-in-water emulsion, forming a multifunctional coating that enhances paper performance while maintaining environmental compatibility. The coated paper exhibits improved barrier properties, mechanical strength, and biodegradability.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

One-step 3D microfluidic chip brings cells closer to real tissues

A new microfluidic chip combines digital droplet control with built-in 3D microstructures to enable cells to self-assemble into tissue-like clusters. The platform overcomes limitations of traditional two-dimensional cultures and existing microfluidic systems, offering a streamlined approach to 3D cell culture.

Mid-infrared InAs/InP quantum-dot lasers: opening a new era for mid-infrared light sources

Researchers have successfully demonstrated the first InAs/InP quantum-dot laser in the mid-infrared 2 μm band, achieving a low threshold current density of 118 A/cm² at room temperature. The device's precise control strategy and high-density, uniform quantum-dot ensemble enable high-performance devices on heterogeneous platforms.

Vaping zebrafish suggest E-cigarette exposure disrupts gut microbial networks and neurobehavior

A study published in Science of The Total Environment found that e-cigarette exposure alters gut microbiota composition and affects neurobehavior in zebrafish. The researchers observed disruptions in the gut microbiome, with reduced microbial network stability and altered community composition, suggesting potential health risks.

SourceKyushu University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

A global strategy is needed to reduce ozone levels

A global strategy is required to address the issue of reduced ozone decline despite decreased emissions of precursor pollutants in North America and Europe. The study found that increased transport of ozone from abroad is the main driver of the weaker-than-expected decline of ozone levels.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2026

Atomic spins set quantum fluid in motion

A team of researchers has observed the Einstein–de Haas effect in a Bose–Einstein condensate, demonstrating the transfer of angular momentum from atomic spins to fluid motion. This finding highlights the conservation of angular momentum between microscopic spin and macroscopic mechanical rotation in the quantum world.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

How topological surfaces boost clean energy catalysts

Researchers discovered that topological surface states can survive and be optimized by electrochemical reconstruction, leading to near-peak ORR activity. The study reveals the importance of considering quantum topology and electrochemical surface chemistry together for next-generation electrocatalysts.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 29, 2026

HKUST develops breakthrough high‑efficiency, low‑cost wastewater treatment technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology developed a mesh bioreactor with ultrasound-induced transient cavitation, increasing flux 10-20 times conventional membrane bioreactors while reducing energy consumption and cost. The technology meets discharge standards in approximately 75% of the global population.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Water·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Phytic acid–driven structural engineering unlocks high-performance lignin-based carbon aerogel supercapacitors

Researchers developed a synergistic structure-doping regulation strategy for lignin-based carbon aerogels using phytic acid, promoting uniform spherical hierarchical structures and dual phosphorus-sulfur doping. This approach achieves high-performance supercapacitors with superior power density and energy storage capabilities.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription

Scientists have identified a previously unknown molecular mechanism for initiating gene transcription in cells under stress. Using cryogenic electron microscopy, they observed how dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules bind to RNA polymerase, enabling the formation of alternative caps that protect cellular RNA.

Fossilized plankton study gives long-term hope for oxygen depleted oceans

Researchers found fossilized plankton suggest a possible long-term recovery from oxygen-depleted oceans despite climate warming. The study, published in Communications Earth & Environment, examined fossilized plankton from the Arabian Sea and found higher oxygen levels during the Miocene Climatic Optimum (MCO) compared to today.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 29, 2026

Reducing drug deaths from novel psychoactive substances relies on foreign legislation, but here’s how it can be tackled closer to home

The UK's response to NPS deaths highlights the importance of international cooperation and domestic legislation in reducing harm. Effective controls implemented in producing countries, such as China, were associated with larger reductions in NPS detections than controls introduced solely within consuming countries.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2026