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Science News Archive 2026 - Page 471


Page 471 of 519

Study: New class of catalysts could dramatically change playing field in nickel catalysis

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed a new method for synthesizing thermally stable Ni(I) compounds that opens new avenues for building complex molecules. The new catalysts exhibit rapid ligand substitution, exceptional performance in key reactions, and chemo-selectivity.

Revenues from drugs subject to price reduction under Inflation Reduction Act are not essential for R&D or normal returns on investment

Research from Bentley University's Center for Integration of Science and Industry shows public companies with price negotiable drugs under IRA were more profitable than comparable companies in the S&P500. The study also found that revenues from these drugs exceeded normal returns on investment before price negotiations began.

SourceBentley University·JournalDrug Discovery Today·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2026

New study identifies key predictors of PFAS levels in US career firefighters

A new study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine has identified clear occupational factors and demographic indicators associated with elevated serum levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances among US career firefighters. The research provides vital insights into the factors that influence PFAS body bu...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2026

From chemical curiosity to key piece in cancer research

Scientists at Umeå University found that i-DNA forms in living cells and acts as a regulatory bottleneck linked to cancer. The protein PCBP1 controls its resolution, which can block replication and increase DNA damage risk if not done properly. This discovery opens new avenues for drug development by targeting i-DNA handling.

Machine learning automates microfluidic chip design

Researchers developed a machine learning-assisted design tool, μFluidicGenius, to automate microfluidic chip design. The tool enables nonexpert users to rapidly design microfluidic circuits with optimal flow conditions, using a hybrid approach combining machine learning models with mathematical fluid mechanics calculations.

SourceKoç University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Everyday movements are more beneficial for osteoarthritis patients than handgrip strength

Research from the University of Sharjah reveals that everyday physical activities, such as walking and climbing stairs, are more beneficial for osteoarthritis patients than handgrip strength. These routine actions are powerful indicators of how older adults perceive their independence and enjoyment of life.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 2, 2026

The earliest known bird had complex tongue bones and fleshy “teeth” on the roof of its mouth—which might have helped it snag the food it needed for flight

The earliest known bird, Archaeopteryx, had unique mouth features such as oral papillae, tongue bones, and bill-tip organs. These structures suggest that early birds evolved specialized ways to find and digest food efficiently, which is key to flight. The discovery provides new criteria for identifying dinosaur fossils as birds.

SourceField Museum·JournalThe Innovation·DateFeb 2, 2026

New study identifies warning signs for extreme flash flooding

Researchers at Newcastle University and the UK Met Office identified a three-layered atmospheric structure associated with heavy rainfall developing within minutes. The findings help explain record-breaking rainfall and flash floods in the UAE and Oman in April 2024, and may aid future improvements in identifying risk.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalWeather and Climate Extremes·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2026

Detecting early-stage cancers with a new blood test measuring epigenetic instability

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have developed a novel liquid biopsy approach to identify early-stage cancers by measuring DNA methylation patterns. The Epigenetic Instability Index (EII) successfully distinguished patients with early-stage lung and breast cancers from healthy individuals, showing promise in detecting...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 2, 2026

Why visceral pain makes us more empathetic

A study at Ruhr-University Bochum found that visceral pain induces stronger cognitive and empathic responses than somatic pain. Participants rated visceral pain as more intense and unpleasant, feeling more empathic concern for themselves and their loved ones.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Pain·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Generative AI applications use among us youth

A cross-sectional study found that up to half of adolescents in the US were using generative AI apps, while a small subset engaged in heavy use. The study highlights the need for future research on individual differences in GenAI use and its impacts on adolescent development.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 2, 2026

More Ontarians are being diagnosed with psychosis than those born in earlier decades

A new study found a significant increase in psychotic disorders among Ontarians born after 1980, with incidence rates rising by 60% for those aged 14-20. The study suggests that recent birth cohorts may be experiencing increased exposure to risk factors such as early life substance use and older-aged parents.

SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2026

CHEST® Critical Care added to Web of Science Emerging Sources Citation Index

The American College of Chest Physicians' CHEST Critical Care journal has been added to the Web of Science Core Collection through the Emerging Sources Citation Index. This indexing marks a significant milestone for the journal, increasing access to high-quality research and supporting its commitment to advancing critical care medicine.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·JournalCHEST Critical Care·DateFeb 2, 2026

Dynamic tuning of Bloch modes in anisotropic phonon polaritonic crystals

Researchers have created a hybrid polaritonic crystal that enables dynamic tuning of Bloch modes by combining low-loss α-MoO3 with electrically tunable graphene. The material exhibits electrical control over its band structure, allowing for selective enhancement of Bloch mode resonance and on-demand switching of far-field radiation.

Wetlands do not need to be flooded to provide the greatest climate benefit

A new study from the University of Copenhagen suggests that flooding low-lying areas in wetlands may not be the most effective way to mitigate climate change. Instead, maintaining a stable water table below ground level can help reduce methane emissions and promote CO2 sequestration, according to researchers led by Professor Bo Elberling.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateFeb 2, 2026

Bat virome evolution in Indochina Peninsula reveals cross-species origins of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus and regional surveillance gaps

A study analyzing bat samples from the Indochina Peninsula identified 137 viral strains across 27 families, including novel species, with Rhinolophidae bats exhibiting high viral diversity. PEDV-related viruses were found in Cambodian bats, further supporting their potential evolutionary source.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalhLife·DateFeb 2, 2026

Scientists unravel vines’ parasitic nature

Researchers identify XTH5 candidate gene and brassinosteroid hormone's role in vine growth and movement. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms behind vines' ability to search for and attach to host plants, blocking sunlight and nutrients.

SourceNew York University·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Reshaping gold leads to new electronic and optical properties

By changing the physical structure of gold, researchers can drastically change its interaction with light, leading to enhanced electronic behavior and improved absorption of light energy. This study demonstrates the potential of nanoporous gold as a new design parameter for engineering materials in advanced technologies.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Unexpected feedback in the climate system

Researchers found a surprising correlation between West Antarctic Ice Sheet retreat and marine algae growth over the past 500,000 years. The study suggests that global warming may lead to reduced CO2 uptake if the ice sheet continues to shrink.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Tracker to help manage Long COVID energy levels created by researchers

A team of researchers at Lancaster University has created a digital platform called 'Pace Me' to help people with Long COVID manage their energy levels. The study, published in Nature Communications, found that the intervention was safe and well-received, but did not outperform standard care in reducing symptoms.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 2, 2026

Psychosis rates increasing in more recent generations

A large study of over 12 million people in Ontario found that psychosis rates are increasing in more recent generations, with higher rates among younger individuals. The study suggests that factors such as substance use, socioeconomic stress, and negative childhood experiences may contribute to these rising trends.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Diabetes management in disadvantaged communities improves significantly with financial incentives, study finds

A new study found that providing financial vouchers to offset medication costs can significantly improve glycemic control among patients with uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes. After six months, participants receiving performance-based incentives saw a clinically substantial reduction in HbA1c levels.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2026