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Science News Archive January 2026 - Page 43


Page 43 of 47

Self-guided behavioral app helps children with epilepsy sleep earlier

A new UK-wide clinical trial evaluated a self-guided behavioural sleep programme for children with epilepsy, resulting in improved sleep duration of 16.5 minutes. However, the main issue was engagement, as only half of those given access to the resources used them.

SourceKing's College London·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 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.

NTU Singapore-led team captures first-ever ‘twitch’ of the eye’s night-vision cells as they detect light, paving the way for earlier detection of blindness-causing diseases

A research team led by NTU Singapore has recorded a tiny mechanical twitch in living human and rodent eyes when rod photoreceptors detect light. This breakthrough could provide a new non-invasive way to assess retinal health and diagnose blinding eye diseases earlier.

SourceNanyang Technological University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

Fewer layovers, better-connected airports, more firm growth

A new study by MIT researchers reveals that cities with strong airline connections are more likely to attract multinational firms, particularly in knowledge industries. The study analyzed 7.5 million firms in 800 cities and found that direct flights lead to a 20% increase in subsidiaries, compared to cities with only one-stop connections.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Cities·DateJan 7, 2026

Method developed to identify best treatment combinations for glioblastoma based on unique cellular targets

Researchers developed a new method to identify effective treatment combinations for glioblastoma by analyzing individual cell types and their gene expression signatures. This approach has the potential to personalize cancer treatment and may be useful for other cancers and diseases.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 7, 2026

Higher consumption of food preservatives is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes

A recent study published in Nature Communications found a strong association between higher consumption of food preservatives and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The research, which analyzed data from over 100,000 adults, suggests that even small amounts of preservative additives can have significant health consequences.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 7, 2026

Boosting the cell’s own cleanup

Researchers have identified a new class of small molecules that boost the cell's natural recycling machinery to destroy an immune-modulating enzyme called IDO1. This approach takes a bolder approach than traditional drug design, eliminating disease-causing proteins altogether and opening up new possibilities for cancer treatment.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 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.

Exposure to natural light improves metabolic health

Researchers discovered that natural light exposure improves blood glucose levels and reduces variability in people with type 2 diabetes. The study also found that melatonin levels increased and fat oxidative metabolism improved when participants were exposed to natural light.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeNews article·DateJan 7, 2026

As we age, immune cells protect the spinal cord

Researchers discovered that microglia's TGF-beta signaling acts as a brake, preventing nerve fibre damage in ageing spinal cords. This protective mechanism may contribute to the development of certain neurological diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

New expert guidance urges caution before surgery for patients with treatment-resistant constipation

A new update from the American Gastroenterological Association emphasizes careful evaluation before surgery for patients with refractory constipation, which can lead to complications and poor outcomes. The guidance recommends a comprehensive individualized evaluation and suggests non-surgical options before considering surgery.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 7, 2026

Solar hydrogen can now be produced efficiently without the scarce metal platinum

A team of researchers at Chalmers University of Technology has developed a new way to produce hydrogen gas without the use of platinum, a scarce and expensive metal. The process uses sunlight and tiny particles of electrically conductive plastic to efficiently produce hydrogen.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2026

Mirror, mirror, on and off

Physicists Tom Hoekstra and Jorik van de Groep have realized an actively tunable metasurface using a novel quantum material, enabling the creation of a nanoscale mirror that can be turned on and off. The device harnesses excitons in 2D materials to control light with record efficiency.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJan 6, 2026
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Gas‑phase construction of compact capping layers for high‑performance halide perovskite x‑ray detectors

Researchers developed a gas-phase method to grow compact capping layers on halide perovskite single crystals, resulting in ultra-sensitive X-ray detectors with record-breaking performance. The new detectors boast improved signal stability, faster response times and lower dark currents.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJan 6, 2026

N-type SnSe polycrystalline thermoelectric material: High performance enabled by liquid phase sintering

Researchers have optimized the thermoelectric performance of SnSe using liquid phase sintering, introducing excess metallic tin to fill intrinsic vacancies and reduce electron trapping. This process results in a lattice thermal conductivity as low as 0.21 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ at 793 K, achieving an exceptional ZT value of approximately 1.9.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateJan 6, 2026

Dynamic network‑ and microcellular architecture‑driven biomass elastomer toward sustainable and versatile soft electronics

Researchers develop ultralight biomass conductive elastomer that self-foams at room temperature, heals in 5 hours, and recycles five times without property loss. The 'micro-spring' lattice offers a gauge factor of 4.8 under 1% strain, making it suitable for wearable, foldable, and reusable soft electronics.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJan 6, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study offers possible solution to a gravitational wave mystery

Scientists at CU Boulder have solved a pressing mystery about the universe's gravitational wave background by revealing the role of smaller galaxies in galaxy evolution. The new study suggests that when a smaller supermassive black hole merges with a larger one, the smaller black hole gains mass, producing larger gravitational waves.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJan 6, 2026

Active phase transition in VPO catalysts during condensation reaction

Researchers unraveled the active phase evolution and driving mechanisms of VPO catalysts under formaldehyde-acetic acid condensation conditions. The study revealed that VPO catalysts rich in V4+ phases show higher selectivity for acrylic acid.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateJan 6, 2026

【Call for papers】2026 MRS International Risk Conference

The conference aims to promote research on global financial risk management with an emphasis on modern risks, under the theme “AI in an Uncertain World”. The annual MRS conference welcomes submissions from scholars worldwide on all aspects of risks and capital markets.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·DateJan 6, 2026

Researchers develop electricity-free chlorine production from brines

Scientists have created a system that harnesses the energy in chloride-rich brines to produce chlorine without needing external power. The innovative approach integrates hydrochloric acid recovery with chlorine and hydrogen generation, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional methods.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 6, 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.

Mapping cancer’s weak spots reveals new precision targets for breast cancer

A new study maps breast cancer vulnerabilities, identifying two major classes of weaknesses: gene addiction and synthetic lethality. The analysis highlights key metabolic and signaling dependencies that distinguish different subtypes, revealing actionable targets for precision treatment strategies.

SourceChina Anti-Cancer Association·JournalCancer Biology & Medicine·DateJan 6, 2026

Study: Teens use cellphones for an hour a day at school

A study by the University of Washington School of Medicine found that US adolescents spend more than an hour per day using their cellphones during school hours. Social media apps account for the largest share of use. The study's lead author notes that objective smartphone data provides a clearer picture of actual use.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 6, 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.

The untold story of life with Prader-Willi syndrome - according to the siblings who live it

A new study reveals the emotional challenges faced by siblings of people with Prader-Willi syndrome, including feelings of stress, loneliness, and sadness. Siblings often take on extra responsibilities at home and struggle to cope with their brother or sister's behavior and hunger.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 6, 2026

Sleeping in on weekends may help boost teens’ mental health

Researchers found that young people who caught up on sleep on weekends had a 41% lower risk for symptoms of depression than those who didn't. Getting eight to 10 hours of sleep each night is still ideal, but weekend sleep catch-up may be protective.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateJan 6, 2026

Smart biochar that remembers pollutants offers a new way to clean water and recycle biomass

Researchers have combined molecular imprinting technology with biochar to create materials that can selectively target specific molecules, achieving high adsorption capacity and selectivity. These smart sorbents show promise for efficient pollution control in complex mixtures and at low concentrations.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 6, 2026
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

When is it time to jump? The boiling frog problem of AI use in physics education

Generative AI is increasingly used in classrooms, raising concerns about its impact on student learning. Researcher Gerd Kortemeyer explores the benefits and drawbacks of AI in physics education, suggesting that it can be a helpful tool when integrated into teaching methods that focus on critical thinking and collaboration.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Physics Teacher·DateJan 6, 2026

Rice genes matter more than domestication in shaping plant microbiomes

A recent study reveals that the specific genetic identity of rice plants determines which microbes they host and how those microbes function. The research found that differences among rice genotypes strongly shape microbial communities in both soil and on leaf surfaces, influencing nutrient cycling, plant health, and soil carbon storage.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2026

Building a global scientific community: Biological Diversity Journal announces dual recruitment of Editorial Board and Youth Editorial Board members

The journal Biological Diversity is seeking experts in various disciplines to address the global biodiversity crisis. The editorial board will comprise senior scholars, while the youth editorial board will include early-career researchers. The dual structure aims to combine strategic wisdom and innovative energy.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·DateJan 6, 2026
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

From ancient herb to modern medicine: new review unveils the multi-targeted healing potential of Borago officinalis

A comprehensive review reveals the therapeutic effects of Borago officinalis, a plant with diverse compounds targeting inflammation and metabolic pathways. The study highlights its potential in treating cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiological Diversity·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 6, 2026

How the parasite that ‘gave up sex’ found more hosts – and why its victory won’t last

A research team at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute has discovered a genetic mechanism that allows certain parasites to infect multiple hosts, but at the cost of long-term survival. The study sheds light on how parasitic infections emerge and spread, with potential implications for public health surveillance and treatment strategies.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 6, 2026

AI is quick but risky for updating old software

The use of generative AI in software development can lead to increased productivity, but also creates technical debt and hasty coding if not managed properly. Companies must prioritize fixing technical debt, develop clear guidelines for AI-assisted coding, and train developers on the hazards of AI coding.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateJan 6, 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.

High levels of Chagas disease parasite found in bugs near U.S.-Mexico border

A UTEP study has discovered a significant increase in parasitic infection rates among kissing bugs in the Borderlands, raising concerns about local transmission of Chagas disease. The research suggests that the disease is becoming an increasingly public health issue for the Southwest, affecting approximately 6 million people worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalEpidemiology and Infection·DateJan 6, 2026

Turning garden and crop waste into plastics

A new Junior Research Group at the University of Oldenburg aims to create fully biodegradable plastics from organic waste. The team will investigate various processes, including fermentation and downstreaming, to produce polybutylene succinate (PBS) based on polybutylene succinate.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateJan 6, 2026

AI river forecasts may be accurate—but based on flawed logic

A new study found that popular AI tools for predicting river flow often misinterpret how heat and evaporation affect water, raising concerns for flood and drought planning. The researchers developed a hydrology-specific 'explainable AI' framework to uncover these issues.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalWater Resources Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 6, 2026
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

AI-powered ECG analysis offers promising path for early detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, says Mount Sinai researchers

Researchers at Mount Sinai have developed an AI-powered ECG analysis tool that shows promise in detecting Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) early. The model achieved high accuracy rates across diverse populations, including a subgroup with irregular heartbeat and smoking exposure.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEBioMedicine·DateJan 6, 2026

‘Forever chemicals’ may increase liver disease risk in adolescents by as much as 3-fold

A new study found that higher levels of PFAS in the blood are linked to an increased risk of early onset of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. MASLD affects up to 40% of children with obesity and increases long-term risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver cancer.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 6, 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.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio may aid risk stratification in depressive disorder

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that a high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio is significantly associated with increased risk of depressive disorder and suicide risk. The study suggests that NLR may be a cost-effective tool to inform risk stratification and tailored treatment strategies in psychiatric care.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateJan 6, 2026

2026 Seismological Society of America Annual Meeting

The SSA will hold its annual meeting in Pasadena, California, featuring 53 technical sessions on topics such as earthquake early warning, seismic swarms, and nuclear explosion forensics. Working journalists can register to attend at no charge, gaining full access to presentations, poster sessions, and plenary talks.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateJan 6, 2026

Seeing thyroid cancer in a new light: when AI meets label-free imaging in the operating room

Researchers combined Dynamic Optical Contrast Imaging (DOCI) with machine learning to identify thyroid cancer during surgery. The AI analysis framework accurately classified samples across three categories and generated tumor probability maps for precise location identification.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalBiophotonics Discovery·TypeObservational study·DateJan 6, 2026

How to achieve efficient and non-destructive tomato picking?

A team of researchers developed a novel end-effector for tomato picking, achieving 88% success rate and reducing picking time by 40%. The system uses a collaborative 'adhesion-clamping' operation mode to avoid fruit damage and improve efficiency.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2026
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How to make communities more resilient to climate change

Researchers at North Carolina State University propose a 'compounded resilience' strategy to help local governments prepare for and adapt to climate change. By incorporating policies that improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance infrastructure, communities can become more resilient and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 6, 2026

Why we talk to people who think differently – or why we don’t

A recent study published in Political Psychology explored the willingness of people to engage in discussions with others who hold different opinions. The researchers developed a measuring tool called WEDO to assess this willingness and found that open-minded individuals tend to think analytically and are more willing to engage in dialo...

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPolitical Psychology·DateJan 6, 2026

Science army mobilizes to map US soil microbiome

A massive US-wide project is cataloging the soil microbiome, discovering over 1,000 new bacterial strains and unlocking secrets of ecological functions and antimicrobial resistance. The BioDiversity and Informatics for Genomics Scholars consortium spans 40+ sites across the country, leveraging long-read sequencing technology.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 6, 2026

New clinical standards strengthen antimicrobial stewardship in tuberculosis care

The new clinical standards for antimicrobial stewardship in tuberculosis care aim to integrate TB into existing AMS frameworks, strengthening surveillance and resistance monitoring. The standards prioritize effectiveness, safety, and resistance prevention, promoting structured expert consultation services and targeted testing.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalIJTLD OPEN·TypeSurvey·DateJan 6, 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.

Early detection and targeted blood purification could prevent kidney failure in ICU patients, new review finds

Early recognition of cast nephropathy through novel biomarkers can guide timely treatment, while tailored extracorporeal therapies show promise in preventing irreversible kidney damage. The review emphasizes the need for standardized biomarker-guided pathways and multicenter trials to advance personalized kidney support.

SourceJournal of Intensive Medicine·JournalJournal of Intensive Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 6, 2026

Supramolecular self-assembly with dual functions of GSH-synthesis inhibition and consumption for efficient chemodynamic therapy

A team of researchers has developed a method for preparing supramolecular prodrug assemblies to enhance chemodynamic therapy efficacy by consuming glutathione (GSH) and inhibiting its synthesis. The approach allows for the simultaneous release of dual functional molecules from self-assemblies, amplifying cellular oxidative stress.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGlycoscience & Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2026