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Science News Archive January 2026 - Page 40


Page 40 of 47

How does a shelled amoeba move?

A team of researchers at Hokkaido University characterized the unique mechanics of Arcella, a shelled single-celled amoeba, to move skillfully across various surfaces. They found that differences in traction stress distribution control straight-line and sideways movement.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the Japan Academy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2026

Patients with clonal hematopoiesis have increased heart disease risk following cancer treatment

Researchers found that patients with clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) had a significantly higher incidence of heart failure and ischemic cardiovascular disease after cancer treatment. CHIP, a condition characterized by age-related variants in blood stem cells, puts patients at increased risk for heart complications.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJan 8, 2026

Interim safety of RSVpreF vaccination during pregnancy

A recent study found that the RSVpreF vaccine does not pose a significant risk to pregnant women, providing reassurance for those who wish to be vaccinated. The interim report presents data from a large cohort of pregnancies with vaccine-seeking behavior, and results suggest no notable adverse effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 8, 2026

Multiscale theoretical calculations empower robust electric double layer toward highly reversible zinc anode

Researchers have developed a multiscale framework to engineer robust electric double layers, enhancing the performance of zinc anodes in aqueous rechargeable batteries. The study achieves over 4,700 cycle life and 90% capacity retention after 800 cycles using a low-cost sugar-derived additive.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJan 8, 2026

Stem cell engineering breakthrough paves way for next-generation living drugs

Researchers at University of British Columbia have successfully grown specialized immune cells called helper T cells from stem cells in a controlled laboratory setting. This breakthrough could lead to more accessible and effective off-the-shelf treatments for various conditions, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious di...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2026

Hybrid parasites threaten progress against one of the world’s most widespread neglected diseases

New research reveals hybrid schistosomes are undermining existing disease control strategies by emerging faster than previously recognized. These hybrids can display altered biological traits linked to virulence and transmission potential, complicating diagnosis and treatment.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 8, 2026

Doing good pays off: Environmentally and socially responsible companies drive value and market efficiency

A global study of 2,636 firms across 31 countries found that stronger ESG disclosure and performance correspond to higher intrinsic value. This aligns with theoretical analysis and signaling theory, highlighting the need for companies to communicate substantive progress honestly.

SourceKyushu University·JournalBusiness Strategy and the Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 8, 2026

Mapping proteins in African genomes reveals new paths to fight type 2 diabetes

Researchers mapped nearly 400 genetic regions regulating circulating proteins, identifying 18 with a likely causal link to T2D. These findings provide new insights into disease biology and could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses, as well as treatments tailored to African populations.

Research paves the way for safer colonoscopy bowel prep for people with compromised gut health

A new study found that bowel preparation procedures for colonoscopies can disrupt the gut environment, making mice more susceptible to infection and inflammation. The researchers hope to understand whether these procedures may put people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at risk of exacerbation.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2026

JBNU researchers propose hierarchical porous copper nanosheet-based triboelectric nanogenerators

Researchers at Jeonbuk National University propose hierarchical porous copper nanosheet-based triboelectric nanogenerators, demonstrating efficient energy harvesting and multifunctionality. The devices achieve a remarkable 590% increase in electrical output while maintaining stability over 100,000 repeated mechanical cycles.

Short-circuiting pancreatic cancer

Researchers have discovered a complex regulatory circuit involving SRSF1, AURKA, and MYC that promotes aggressive pancreatic cancer progression. The circuit, which involves alternative splicing, can be targeted with an antisense oligonucleotide to reduce tumor cells' viability and trigger apoptosis.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 8, 2026

Behind nature’s blueprints

Scientists from ISTA and Brandeis University develop a geometric framework that predicts viable structures in self-assembling particles. The 'high-dimensional convex polyhedron' tool helps identify constraints that prevent certain outcomes, offering insights into designing custom-made nanomaterials.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 8, 2026

Researchers search for why some people’s gut microbes produce high alcohol levels

A study published in Nature Microbiology identified specific gut microbes and metabolic pathways responsible for producing high levels of alcohol in patients with auto-brewery syndrome. The researchers found that stool samples from patients produced significantly more ethanol than those from unaffected individuals or healthy controls, ...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2026

Thermal drone monitoring a promising way to monitor dolphin health

Marine mammal experts use drone-based thermal imaging to measure dolphin surface temperature and respiration rates, detecting biologically meaningful changes in physiological state. The study validates the accuracy of drone measurements under controlled conditions, paving the way for safer health monitoring of marine mammals.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Thermal Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 7, 2026

Putting workers at the centre of rapid AI change

A new framework proposes managing AI-related risks by treating workers as co-designers of workplace transformation. The framework integrates job crafting, participatory oversight, and expanded WHS definitions to address relational harms and promote human labour values.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Industrial Relations·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 7, 2026

First optical microneedle device in the world enabling glucose quantification in ultra-trace samples

A novel optical microneedle device developed by researchers can quantify glucose levels in ultra-trace samples with high precision, offering a potential solution for blood-sampling-free clinical testing. The device features a functional hydrogel at its tip that reversibly binds to glucose, enabling accurate analysis without consuming t...

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

Preoperative VEGFR-TKI Plus ICI therapy facilitates 3D-guided cytoreductive nephron-sparing surgical feasibility and immune remodeling in advanced renal cell carcinoma

This study explores the feasibility of preoperative VEGFR-TKI plus ICI therapy for advanced renal cell carcinoma, finding improved cNSS rates and preservation of renal function. The therapy also induces robust immune activation through increased CD8⁺/CD20⁺ infiltration and tumor microenvironment remodeling.

SourceFAR Publishing Limited·JournalMed Research·DateJan 7, 2026

Three in four new Australian moms struggle with body image

A new review found that social and interpersonal factors significantly impact Australian women's body image concerns after childbirth. Supportive partners, strong social networks, and clear guidance from healthcare providers are protective factors, while appearance-related comments and sociocultural pressure can worsen issues.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 7, 2026

Portable biosensor may enable on-site PFAS detection

A portable biosensor developed at La Trobe University can rapidly detect toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water. The device provides a simple yes or no result, allowing for quick and easy screening of water samples, particularly in regional and remote areas where monitoring is challenging.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

Mass General Brigham–developed cholera vaccine completes phase 1 trial

A single-dose oral cholera vaccine called PanChol has completed a phase 1 clinical trial with positive results, offering hope for combating the devastating disease globally. The vaccine was developed by Mass General Brigham and shows promise in preventing severe vomiting and diarrhea caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 7, 2026

Whooping cough vaccination for pregnant women strengthens babies’ immune system

A study by Radboud University Medical Center found that pregnant women vaccinated against whooping cough transfer antibodies to their newborns, which provide long-lasting protection. This discovery supports the World Health Organization's recommendation to maintain whole-cell vaccines in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 7, 2026