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Science News Archive January 2026 - Page 5


Page 5 of 47

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

Novel quantum refrigerator benefits from problematic noise

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have created a novel quantum refrigerator that utilizes problematic noise to cool down extremely low temperatures. The innovative design enables precise control over heat and energy flows, making it an essential component for scaling up quantum technology.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·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.

AI tools help decode how TCM formulas work

Researchers use AI methods to tackle complexity of TCM formulas, predicting pharmacokinetic behavior and identifying synergistic interactions. AI-assisted modeling helps connect constituents to protein targets, supporting iterative cycles of prediction and experimental confirmation.

SourceChinese Journal of Natural Medicines·JournalChinese Journal of Natural Medicines·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 29, 2026
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

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.

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.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2026

Early signs of Parkinson’s can be identified in the blood

A team at Chalmers University of Technology has discovered biomarkers for Parkinson's disease in the blood, which could lead to early diagnosis via blood tests within five years. The study found distinct gene activities linked to DNA damage repair and stress response in patients in the early phase of the disease.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·Journalnpj Parkinson s Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 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.

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

AI and new sensing tools are reshaping collective animal behavior research

Collective animal behavior research is entering a new interdisciplinary phase, driven by AI, sensing technologies, and virtual reality. This transformation enables scientists to track and analyze whole groups in unprecedented detail, capturing patterns previously invisible. Insights from animal swarms are increasingly shaping real-worl...

SourceTechnische Universität Berlin – Science of Intelligence·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 28, 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.

Real-time imaging of contact between cells and between a single neuron’s extensions

Scientists from The University of Osaka have created two new fluorescent markers, Gachapin and Gachapin-C, that can visualize dynamic cell-to-cell contacts and connections within a single neuron's extensions. These indicators allow for the monitoring of complex patterns of connectivity in various cell types, including neurons.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

A new understanding of spontaneous brillouin metrology: intrinsic noise sets the fundamental performance limit

Researchers developed a comprehensive framework to describe intensity fluctuations in Spontaneous Brillouin scattering, linking its stochastic behavior to system parameters. Experimental validation confirmed theoretical predictions, revealing the universal fundamental precision limit imposed by SpBS noise on Brillouin metrology.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJan 28, 2026

Wastewater surveillance reveals true scale of COVID-19 spread as clinical testing declines

A study in Japan found that wastewater surveillance can uncover the true scale of COVID-19 spread by detecting high viral loads in sewage despite reduced clinical testing. This approach offers an objective view of community-wide infection levels, unaffected by changes in testing policies or public behavior.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalEnvironment International·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 2026

On the nose: Beauty, bias and the face of social media

New Edith Cowan University research explores how facial filters and pop culture shape perceptions of the nose. Dr Laura Glitsos found that social media reinforces narrow Eurocentric beauty standards, negatively impacting people's self-worth and wellbeing.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalBody & Society·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 28, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

How social media data and analytics are informing disaster management research

A systematic review examines how social media users can be utilized as a 'human sensor network' for disaster management. The study finds that refined social media data contributes strongly to identifying needs during disasters, strengthening community resilience and allocating resources faster.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·DateJan 28, 2026

New research enables safe reuse of concrete

A new framework developed by researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology enables builders to reuse structural elements confidently, extending the lifespan of used concrete by 50-100 years. The study's findings show that reusing concrete is one of the most effective ways to cut emissions and reduce waste in construction.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials and Structures·DateJan 28, 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.

Study maps the climate-related evolution of modern kangaroos and wallabies

A QUT-led study has found how increasing aridity and habitat variation led to the diversification of modern kangaroos and wallabies. The research reveals that these iconic Australian marsupials evolved in two major bursts over the past nine million years, with their expansion coinciding with the emergence of grasslands.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 28, 2026

Early-life pollution leaves a multigenerational mark on fish skeletons

Research reveals that early exposure to pollutants like benzo[a]pyrene can have lasting effects on fish skeletons, disrupting growth programs and causing deformities. The study found a strong concentration-dependent embryotoxicity in developing fish, with persistence of developmental toxicity across generations.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

A lost world: Ancient cave reveals million-year-old wildlife

Scientists have uncovered a treasure trove of 12 million-year-old bird and four frog species in a New Zealand cave, shedding light on the continent's ancient history. The findings suggest that catastrophic climate changes and volcanic eruptions led to frequent extinctions, with around 33-50% of species disappearing before human arrival.

SourceFlinders University·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 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.

New Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution study cautions that deep-sea fishing could undermine valuable tuna fisheries

A new Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution study suggests that large-scale deep-sea fishing could undermine valuable tuna fisheries by reducing the food available to bigeye tuna. The research highlights the importance of ecosystem-based management and considering cross-fishery trade-offs before expanding new fisheries.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalFisheries Management and Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 28, 2026

Fish liver self-defense: How autophagy helps pufferfish survive under the cold and copper stress

A study on the pufferfish (Takifugu fasciatus) found that its liver uses autophagy to defend against cold and copper stress. Autophagy helps the liver recycle damaged components and maintain internal balance under stress. The research identifies three key genes (lc3, beclin-1, and p62) that play a crucial role in this process.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalAnimal Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Embedding critical thinking from a young age

Experts call for a radical refocus on school curricula to include more critical thinking and learning skills. The International Microbiology Literacy Initiative's MicroChats provide real-world contexts for children to develop critical reflection and hone their skills.

SourceFlinders University·JournalMicrobial Biotechnology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 28, 2026

Unlocking MOF-based nanoparticle impellers through dimensional engineering to achieve optically controlled cargo delivery

Researchers created a two-dimensional MOF-based nano-impeller that achieved efficient photoisomerization and on-demand cargo delivery. The study found that mechanical activation and dimensionality synergistically regulate the photo-switching dynamics, enabling 99% cargo release within 50 minutes.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

New AI tool accelerates hearing research with unprecedented 3D views of sensory cells

Researchers have developed a new AI tool called VASCilia that provides unprecedented 3D views of cochlear hair cells. The tool accelerates the imaging process by 50-fold, allowing scientists to analyze cells with greater precision and accuracy. This advancement offers new insights into hearing loss caused by damaged inner ear hair cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 28, 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.

3D, atom-by-atom maps of disordered materials

Researchers at California NanoSystems Institute developed a framework to determine the 3D positions and elemental identities of atoms in amorphous materials. They achieved 100% accuracy in mapping silicon and oxygen atoms in glass-like material.

SourceCalifornia NanoSystems Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

How tree rings help scientists understand disruptive extreme solar storms

A recent study published in New Phytologist reveals that trees don't record carbon from solar storms in the same way, affecting how scientists interpret past events. The research sheds light on how biological differences impact tree rings and provides a more accurate understanding of extreme space weather.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalNew Phytologist·DateJan 28, 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.

UT Health San Antonio research shows Alzheimer’s prevention potential in pairing cannabis ingredient, anti-inflammatory drug

A new study led by Dr. Chu Chen suggests that combining THC with celecoxib may improve cognition and reduce Alzheimer's-related brain pathology in mice. The combination produced better outcomes than low-dose THC alone, including improved learning and memory performance and reduced markers of neuroinflammation.

SourceThe University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center·JournalAging and Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Alliance Foundation Trials phase III PATINA study results published in the New England Journal of Medicine

The phase III PATINA study demonstrated that adding CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib to standard maintenance therapy significantly prolongs progression-free survival by more than 15 months compared to standard therapy alone. The study found a meaningful improvement in median PFS with no new signals.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 28, 2026

AI tool helps predict which patients need continued care after leaving the hospital

An AI tool developed by researchers at NYU Langone Health can accurately predict which patients will require skilled nursing facilities after leaving the hospital, enabling faster and more effective discharge planning. The tool uses short summaries of doctor notes to identify key risk factors and predicts patient needs with 88% accuracy.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·Journalnpj Health Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 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.

These caterpillars can hear using tiny hairs on their bodies

Researchers at Binghamton University discovered that caterpillars can hear airborne sounds via microscopic hairs on their bodies. The study found that the caterpillars were 10 to 100 times more responsive to airborne sound than surface vibrations felt on their feet, suggesting a new approach for improving microphone technology.

SourceBinghamton University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Cellular hazmat team cleans up tau. Could it prevent dementia?

Researchers at UC San Francisco have identified CUL5, a protein that tags tau for elimination, as a key player in preventing the formation of toxic tau protein clumps that can lead to dementia. The study found that neurons with more CUL5 are less vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateJan 28, 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.

Support stops at the checkout line: Consumer stigma undermines ‘impact hiring’ initiatives

A new study reveals that consumers who morally support companies hiring homeless individuals often drop purchase intentions due to irrational 'contagion concerns', triggered by emotional reactions linked to stereotypes about hygiene and safety. Social proof appeals can counteract this bias, increasing purchase likelihood.

SourcePortland State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJan 28, 2026

How to incentivize problem solving in groups

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that rewarding 'reformers' who improve the collective prediction regardless of their own personal accuracy leads to more accurate and diverse outcomes. This approach is more effective than rewarding 'niche experts' or 'experts', which can lead to a loss of diversity and accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 28, 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.

Discovery shines light on a cascade of events that occurs when toxic tau impacts synapses, suggesting new mechanisms for neurodegeneration

Researchers developed a new tool to track changes in the synaptic proteome over time, correlating changes to synaptic dysregulation and synapse loss. The results suggest that toxic tau oligomers impact postsynaptic structures first, leading to a dynamic cascade of events that contribute to neurodegeneration.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

How plants ‘hedge their bets’ for better reproductive success

Plants have a cellular strategy to adapt to environmental changes, balancing growth and flowering responses through dynamic protein relationships. This adaptation allows for continuous flower production, increasing the chances of seed production in changing conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Preparedness for future pandemics: MERS vaccine candidate shows long-lasting immune response

A new MERS vaccine candidate has shown a stable and functional immune response in humans that persists for at least two years after a booster vaccination. The study demonstrates that such durable immunity can be achieved through targeted booster vaccinations, providing an important step toward an effective MERS vaccine.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 28, 2026