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Science News Archive January 2026 - Page 3


Page 3 of 47

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

How a simple dietary change may slow liver cancer in at-risk patients

A Rutgers-led study found that low-protein diets slowed liver tumor growth and cancer death in mice, uncovering a mechanism by which impaired waste-handling machinery can fuel cancer. The researchers suggest that individuals with elevated ammonia levels due to liver disease or impairment may benefit from reducing protein intake.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Helping hands: UBCO research team develops brace to reduce tremors

A UBCO research team has developed a lightweight, wearable brace that reduces involuntary hand tremors in people with Parkinson’s disease. The passive vibration-absorbing mechanism offers an accessible alternative to existing treatments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Medical Engineering & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Electrifying biology in a bubble

RNA droplets promote reduction and oxidation reactions, crucial for life, according to UC Santa Barbara researchers. The findings support the idea that these droplets acted as proto-enzymes, enabling the development of more complicated organic molecules.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2026

Heat from deep underground could help power global clean energy transition

A recent Stanford University study reveals that EGS can significantly reduce the amount of wind, solar, and battery infrastructure needed for a clean, renewable energy transition. Adding EGS to the renewable energy mix produces substantial infrastructure savings, including reduced land requirements and infrastructure needs.

SourceStanford University·JournalCell Reports Sustainability·DateJan 29, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stroke telerehabilitation emerges as promising primer for recovery

A new treatment combining cognitive and occupational therapy is being tested to improve stroke recovery, especially for rural patients. The 'cognition-first' approach tackles cognitive difficulties before physical rehabilitation, addressing a significant gap in existing treatments.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

How fire-loving fungi learned to eat charcoal

Fungi have evolved unique strategies to digest charcoal and other pollutants, including gene duplication and horizontal gene transfer. These discoveries could lead to new methods for cleaning up contaminated environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 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.

Plastic pollution promotes hazardous water conditions, new study finds

A new study by University of California San Diego researchers found that fossil fuel plastics can amplify harmful algae blooms by killing off zooplankton, leading to an increase in algal concentrations. In contrast, biodegradable plastics had a smaller impact on zooplankton and algal communities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCommunications Sustainability·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
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.

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
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.

One in 1,000 dies: communicating medical numbers

A recent study published in JAMA highlights the importance of effective communication of medical numbers, particularly in preventing nocebo effects. Researchers recommend using positive framing and clear strategies to present numbers in an understandable way, as vague verbal descriptors can amplify fear and unintended expectation effects.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·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
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.

Using AI to retrace the evolution of genetic control elements in the brain

A team of researchers used AI to analyze the activity of genetic control elements in the developing mammalian cerebellum, identifying specific elements unique to the human lineage. The study reveals how these elements may have contributed to key evolutionary innovations in the human brain, including the expansion of the cerebellum.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2026

Scientists empower an AI foundation model to accelerate plant research

A new method called Distributed Cross-Channel Hierarchical Aggregation (D-CHAG) accelerates analysis of hyperspectral data, enabling faster AI-guided discoveries for high-performing crops. The approach reduces computational bottleneck and increases efficiency, making it possible to extract subtle patterns in plant physiology.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 29, 2026
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

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...

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2026

January research news from the Ecological Society of America

A recent study published by the Ecological Society of America highlights the impact of rainstorms on environmental DNA in streams. Researchers found that rainfall can wash away genetic material from land-based species and deposit it into nearby waterways, providing a fuller picture of who is present. In another study, scientists discov...

SourceEcological Society of America·DateJan 29, 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.

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

Underwater 3D printing could transform maritime construction

A Cornell University team is developing a method to 3D-print concrete underwater, which could revolutionize on-site maritime construction and repair of critical infrastructure. The technology aims to minimize ocean disruption while creating more efficient and effective construction methods.

SourceCornell University·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
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.

What ice-fishing competitions reveal about human decision-making

A large-scale field experiment with Finnish ice fishers found that experienced anglers rely more on their own knowledge when successful and on social information when unsuccessful. The study also showed that age, gender and environmental factors influence decision-making strategies.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2026

Scientists solve the mystery of why termite kings and queens are monogamous

Researchers found that termites evolved from cockroach ancestors that became dependent on cooperation and food sharing within colonies. Monogamy and high relatedness were crucial for the evolution of complex social systems in termites, with genes involved in sperm motility being lost due to the absence of sperm competition.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

ORNL and Kyoto Fusioneering partner to build critical fusion infrastructure

ORNL and Kyoto Fusioneering have established a public-private partnership to develop cutting-edge experimental infrastructure for testing next-generation tritium breeding blanket systems. The UNITY-3 facility will be sited at ORNL and complement existing facilities in Japan and Canada, advancing mutual research and commercial goals.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateJan 29, 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.

How does Long COVID develop? New piece of the puzzle found

A big data study has identified a specific molecular state of immune cells as associated with the severity of fatigue and respiratory symptoms in Long COVID patients. This finding offers exciting starting points for further research into genetic risk factors and individualised medicine.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalNature Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·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.

SourceAerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateJan 29, 2026

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.

SourceBBVA Foundation·DateJan 29, 2026

AI swarms could hijack democracy—without anyone noticing

Researchers warn that AI-controlled personas, mimicking humans, can tilt elections through coordinated narratives and persuasive messages. The next election may be the proving ground for this technology, threatening democratic discourse.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 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.

The “Grand Canyon” of the Atlantic

A team of scientists discovered the King's Trough Complex, a colossal submarine canyon off Portugal's coast, formed by tectonic processes and hot mantle material. The structure extends over 500 kilometers, with Peake Deep as one of the deepest points in the Atlantic Ocean.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2026

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
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.

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.

SourceAerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateJan 29, 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.

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.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·DateJan 29, 2026

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
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.