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Science News Archive January 2026 - Page 21


Page 21 of 47

Triboelectric nanogenerators for future space missions

Researchers have developed triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) that can harness energy from vibrations, micrometeoroid impacts, and other sources to power spacecraft systems. TENGs also serve as self-powered sensors for real-time health monitoring and collision detection.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJan 20, 2026

Multifunctional dipoles enabling enhanced ionic and electronic transport for high‑energy batteries

Researchers have developed a new battery technology that uses dipole interactions to enhance ionic and electronic transport, leading to improved energy storage, increased safety and wider temperature capabilities. The innovative design provides a roadmap for next-generation high-energy batteries.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJan 20, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Social environment impacts sleep quality

Researchers found that mice higher in their social hierarchy benefited from isolation, while those lower did not. The team also discovered that being alone can disrupt the brain's ability to stabilize its internal rhythms during sleep, which may be relevant to human mental health.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026

Heteroatom‑coordinated Fe–N4 catalysts for enhanced oxygen reduction in alkaline seawater zinc‑air batteries

Researchers have developed heteroatom-coordinated Fe–N4 single-atom sites to create square-pyramidal 'Cl–Fe–N₄' catalysts that repel chloride ions. The Cl–Fe bond shortens the Fe–N bond length and lowers the *OH-to-H₂O rate-limiting step, delivering a record 5.8 mA cm⁻² limiting current density.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJan 20, 2026

Theoretical study of laser-enhanced nuclear fusion reactions

Theoretical study reveals that low-frequency lasers significantly enhance fusion efficiency, increasing tunneling probabilities and bridging the gap between low-temperature and high-temperature conditions. The study provides a unified framework for analyzing laser-assisted fusion across different laser frequencies and intensities.

SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 20, 2026

Cannabis legalization is driving increases in marijuana use among U.S. adults with historically lower consumption rates

A new study found that recreational cannabis legalization in the US is driving increases in cannabis use among adults with historically lower consumption rates. Adults aged 60 years and older, female, white, or college-educated were most responsive to legalization, with significant increases in use.

SourceBoston College·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Not all memories are created equal: Study by NUS and Duke shows how motivation shapes our memory

Researchers propose a neuroscience framework explaining how motivation fundamentally reshapes memory. Two motivational moods - an interrogation-driven mood supported by dopamine and an imperative-driven mood supported by noradrenaline - are associated with different neural contexts, determining the type of memory formed.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalAnnual Review of Psychology·DateJan 20, 2026

Optimized kinetic pathways of active hydrogen generation at Cu2O/Cu heterojunction interfaces to enhance nitrate electroreduction to ammonia

Scientists optimize kinetic pathways of active hydrogen generation at Cu2O/Cu interfaces to enhance nitrate electroreduction to ammonia. The Co₀.₁₀-Cu₂O/Cu catalyst exhibits exceptional performance, achieving high yields and selectivity in NITRR.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateJan 20, 2026

Discovery of bats remarkable navigation strategy revealed in new study

A team of aerospace engineers and biologists built a custom 'Bat Accelerator Machine' to test the theory that bats exploit acoustic flow velocity to navigate complex habitats. The findings suggest that bats use Doppler-based acoustic flow for speed control and may rely on this mechanism for navigation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Drones reveal how feral horse units keep boundaries

A research team used drones to study feral horse units in Portugal, finding that they dynamically adjust their shape and distance to avoid conflict with neighboring groups. Exceptionally, a 'friendly pair' showed high social tolerance, consistently approaching and mixing members.

SourceThe Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 2026

Over 1 million estimated to have glaucoma in UK

A new study estimates that over 1.6 million people in the UK will be living with glaucoma by 2060, with nearly 50% higher prevalence than previous estimates. The researchers call for expanded eye health services and increased awareness campaigns to detect early cases and prevent vision loss.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2026

Researchers study whether intentionally manipulating blood carbon dioxide levels might enhance brain health

A team of researchers found that intentionally raising and lowering blood CO2 levels through rhythmic exposure or controlled breathing may boost the glymphatic system's effectiveness. This approach could preserve brain function, improve cognition, and reduce cognitive decline in Parkinson's patients.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026

New design playbook could unlock next generation high energy lithium ion batteries

Researchers have synthesized and analyzed recent global advances in cation disordered rocksalt cathode materials, a promising alternative to today’s dominant lithium ion battery cathodes. The study provides a clear framework for overcoming long standing performance challenges that have so far limited commercial adoption.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 20, 2026
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

National childhood type 1 diabetes screening is effective and could prevent thousands of emergency diagnoses, UK study shows

A UK-wide childhood screening program for type 1 diabetes has been shown to be effective in detecting early stages of the disease. By identifying children at risk, families can prepare for a potential diagnosis and receive timely treatment, reducing the need for emergency hospitalizations.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 20, 2026

Bubble netting knowledge spread by immigrant humpback whales

Researchers found that the spread of group bubble-net feeding amongst humpback whales is crucial to the success of the population's ongoing recovery. The technique has been seen in Alaskan waters and is now spreading into the Canadian Pacific population, likely due to immigrant whales bringing the knowledge with them.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2026

Mix of different types of physical activity may be best for longer life

Research published in BMJ Medicine found that a mix of different types of physical activity may be best for prolonging the lifespan. Variety rather than total quantity alone is linked to a lower risk of death, with some activities associated with a 15% lower risk of death from all causes.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2026

Constructing a dual motion mode in a single molecular machine

Researchers design a novel molecular machine that controls both rotational and shuttle motions in a single molecule. The system, composed of a sterically hindered olefin motor, H-type benzimidazole, and crown ether, demonstrates the tuning effect of two motion modes within a single machine.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Continuous care from community-based midwives reduces risk of preterm birth by 45%

A study published in BJOG found that continuous care from community-based midwives significantly reduced the risk of preterm birth among Black, Asian, and other ethnic minority backgrounds and socially deprived areas. Women who received this care had a lower risk of preterm birth, increased spontaneous vaginal delivery rates, and bette...

SourceKing's College London·JournalBJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 2026

New AI tool removes bottleneck in animal movement analysis

Researchers from the University of St. Andrews have developed an AI tool called PoseR that reads animal movement from video and provides clear, human-readable descriptions. This breakthrough removes a bottleneck in neuroscience, psychology, and biology, enabling larger, faster, and more reproducible studies.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·JournalOpen Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 20, 2026

Early treatment can delay rheumatoid arthritis for years

A new study by King's College London found that early treatment with abatacept can delay rheumatoid arthritis (RA) onset in people at high risk for several years. The benefits persist even after treatment has stopped, potentially reducing the number of years people live with symptoms and complications.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·DateJan 20, 2026
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Using artificial intelligence to understand how emotions are formed

Researchers created a computational model that combines physiological signals, sensory input, and word information to construct human emotions. The model achieved an agreement rate of about 75% when compared to participants' self-reported emotional evaluations.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Affective Computing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 20, 2026

Auburn Physics PhD student earns prestigious DOE Fellowship

Jessica Eskew, a PhD student in Auburn Physics, has been awarded a highly competitive SCGSR Fellowship to conduct fusion energy research at DIII-D. Her research focuses on runaway electrons, which can damage fusion devices if uncontrolled. Eskew will collaborate with experts in energetic particle physics and plasma control.

SourceAuburn University Department of Physics·DateJan 20, 2026

To show LGBTQ+ support, look beyond Pride Month

A study by Cornell University researchers found that LGBTQ+ employees and customers perceive allyship gestures more authentically when displayed outside Pride Month. The study suggests a one-size-fits-all approach to allyship is not effective, highlighting the importance of timing in shaping perceptions.

SourceCornell University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·TypeSurvey·DateJan 20, 2026

Bring a friend: Financial and peer support increase women’s reproductive agency in India

A new study from the University of Illinois explores a program providing financial and peer support to women in Uttar Pradesh, India. The study found that women who brought a female peer to a family planning clinic were more likely to use modern contraception and experience stronger reproductive agency.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateJan 20, 2026
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

SIAM Conference on Parallel Processing (PP26)

The SIAM Conference on Parallel Processing for Scientific Computing emphasizes high-performance scientific computing and scalable algorithms. The conference attracts applied mathematics, computer science, and computational science and engineering communities.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJan 20, 2026

Cannabis may help some communities cope with gun violence

A new study found that cannabis use was associated with lower blood pressure among street-identified Black Americans, but no alleviation of anxiety and depression. The research suggests potential benefits for cardiovascular health and highlights the need for violence-reduction programs to support these communities.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateJan 20, 2026

AI tool helps you learn how autistic communication works

A new AI-based learning tool, NeuroBridge, aims to bridge the communication gap between neurotypical and autistic individuals. The interactive LLM tool evaluates user responses to match autistic communication preferences, teaching users about cross-neurotype communication styles and their interdependent nature.

SourceTufts University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Seawater microbes offer new, non-invasive way to detect coral disease, WHOI-led study finds

A new study demonstrates that changes in seawater microbiome adjacent to corals reveal disease presence more clearly than microbes living within coral tissue itself. This approach could form the basis of an early warning system, allowing managers to respond before disease causes irreversible damage.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalCell Reports Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026

How cities are changing social behavior in urban animals

A comprehensive review by Bielefeld University researchers reveals that urbanisation significantly impacts animal social behaviour, including changes in communication, aggression and group stability. The study found that 92% of reviewed papers report a significant effect of urbanization on social behavior.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalBiological Reviews·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 20, 2026

Researchers use failed batteries to fight “forever chemicals”

Scientists have developed a new technique using failed battery components to intentionally degrade water pollutants known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The method, published in Nature Chemistry, achieves remarkable results in breaking down long-chain PFAS molecules into mineralized fluorine.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 20, 2026
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

UCLA-led team discovers metallic material with record thermal conductivity

A UCLA-led research team has discovered a new metallic material that conducts heat nearly three times more efficiently than copper, opening up new pathways for cooling electronics and AI hardware. The material, theta-phase tantalum nitride, boasts an ultrahigh thermal conductivity of approximately 1,100 W/mK.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026

Registrations open for São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Immigration, Environmental Violence and Colonialism

The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Immigration, Environmental Violence and Colonialism is an interdisciplinary laboratory fostering critical training and collective knowledge production. Up to 100 students will be selected for the course, which will feature internationally renowned researchers as speakers.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateJan 20, 2026
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

In Memoriam: Brian Leyland-Jones, MB BS, PhD

Dr. Brian Leyland-Jones was a renowned breast cancer oncologist and translational research leader who played a pivotal role in advancing cancer therapies. He made himself available to patients in need, offering his expertise pro bono and guiding them through diagnoses and treatment options.

SourceNational Foundation for Cancer Research·DateJan 20, 2026

Exposure to wildfire smoke late in pregnancy may raise autism risk in children

A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that exposure to wildfire smoke during the third trimester may raise the risk of autism diagnoses in children. Mothers who were exposed to more than 10 days of wildfire smoke had a 23% higher risk of their child being diagnosed with autism by age 5.

SourceTulane University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 20, 2026

New brain maps challenge traditional descriptions of the brain

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet created the first activity-based maps of the prefrontal cortex, revealing a hierarchy of information flow rather than tissue structure. This challenges traditional definitions of brain regions and has major implications for understanding brain organisation overall.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

University of Toronto Engineering researchers create first-ever tool to generate emissions budgets for 1,000 cities worldwide

The University of Toronto Engineering researchers have created the first-ever tool to provide construction-related greenhouse gas emissions budgets for 1,000 cities globally. The open-source model helps cities navigate between the need for new housing and infrastructure and the need to keep global warming below two degrees. The model c...

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature Cities·DateJan 20, 2026

Targeted therapy shows promise against aggressive brain tumors, alliance trial finds

A national clinical trial found that abemaciclib, an oral cancer drug, may slow tumor growth in patients with aggressive meningiomas with specific genetic mutations. The trial showed promising results, with a median progression-free survival of 10 months and a median overall survival of 29 months.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New study shows how light suppresses virulence in antibiotic-resistant pathogen

Researchers at the University of Chicago have discovered a light-sensitive signaling cascade in Pseudomonas aeruginosa that suppresses biofilm formation and virulence. The study, published in Nature Communications, identifies a small protein called DimA as the key trigger for this process.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

NRG Oncology adds new leadership members to Brain Tumor, Breast Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Lung Cancer, Medical Oncology, Medical Physics, Protocol Operations Monitoring, Publications, and Translational Science committees

NRG Oncology has added several new leadership members to its Brain Tumor, Breast Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Lung Cancer, Medical Oncology, and Translational Science committees. Deborah K. Armstrong will lead the NRG Medical Oncology Committee, while Daniel P. Cahill will serve as Surgical Oncology Vice Chair of the NRG Brain Tumor C...

SourceNRG Oncology·DateJan 20, 2026

World enters “era of global water bankruptcy”; UN scientists formally define new post-crisis reality for billions

The United Nations University reports that many regions are living beyond their hydrological means, with critical water systems already bankrupt. The study defines 'water bankruptcy' as persistent over-withdrawal from surface and groundwater relative to renewable inflows and safe levels of depletion. This has resulted in a growing list...

SourceUnited Nations University·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2026