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Science News for February 19, 2026


New study finds fish supply must be paired with public awareness to tackle malnutrition in Timor-Leste

A new study from Timor-Leste shows that increasing fish supply alone is not enough to tackle malnutrition; targeted nutrition messaging and public awareness are also necessary. The study found that households exposed to both increased fish availability and nutrition campaign were nearly twice as likely to purchase fish.

SourceWorldFish·JournalPLOS One·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 19, 2026

Holistically improving the process of producing hydrogen from water

Developed at Tohoku University's Advanced Institute for Materials Research, the new catalyst enables smoother hydrogen formation under alkaline conditions. The auxiliary-driving strategy improves both steps of the hydrogen evolution reaction, resulting in higher hydrogen evolution activity and efficient production with low energy loss.

International Progressive MS Alliance awards €6.9 million to three studies researching therapies to address common symptoms of progressive MS

The International Progressive MS Alliance has funded three global studies to address common symptoms of progressive MS, such as fatigue and cognitive impairment. These Well-Being Phase II Efficacy Awards aim to develop innovative approaches for improving well-being in people with progressive MS.

Turning waste into power: scientists convert discarded phone batteries and industrial lignin into high-performance sodium battery materials

Researchers develop a new method to transform waste streams into a promising material for next-generation sodium-ion batteries. The study demonstrates how waste recycling can reduce environmental pollution and support the transition to sustainable energy storage technologies.

New JNCCN study identifies long-term health risks among testicular cancer survivors treated with contemporary chemotherapy regimens

A new study published in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (JNCCN) identifies significant long-term health risks among testicular cancer survivors treated with contemporary chemotherapy regimens. Researchers found that survivors treated with etoposide and cisplatin (EPx4) had higher odds of renal impairment, hear...

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 2026

PhD student maps mysterious upper atmosphere of Uranus for the first time

A Northumbria University PhD student has led an international team in creating the first-ever three-dimensional map of Uranus's upper atmosphere. The observations provide detailed information on where auroras form and how energy moves through the planet's atmosphere, confirming that the upper atmosphere is still cooling.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 19, 2026

Social pressure forces baby clownfish to lose their bars faster

A new study reveals that the presence of older fish accelerates bar loss in young tomato anemonefish, a process linked to social hierarchy and environmental adaptability. The researchers suggest this may be an insurance policy against invasion, with younger fish losing their bars as they are accepted into the group.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

MULTI-evolve: Rapid evolution of complex multi-mutant proteins

Researchers developed MULTI-evolve, a framework for efficient protein evolution that applies machine learning models to predict beneficial mutations and their combinations. The approach identified function-enhancing mutations and tested their pairwise combinations, demonstrating improved efficiency in protein engineering.

SourceArc Institute·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Cats could hold new keys to human cancer

Researchers analyzed tumour samples from almost 500 domestic cats across five countries, identifying specific driver genes that lead to cancer development. The study found similarities between cat and human cancers, including a common driver gene associated with worse prognosis in humans.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

3D printing soft robots

Researchers at Harvard's John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a new fabrication method for printing robotic devices with long filaments featuring precisely placed hollow channels. This allows the device to bend and deform in predetermined ways, enabling the creation of soft robots with predictable s...

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Next-generation OLEDs rely on finetuned microcavities

Researchers at the University of Turku developed a unified theory guiding the design of more efficient and sustainable devices. The work reveals that squeezing light too tightly inside OLEDs can reduce performance, and optimal efficiency is achieved through a delicate balance of material and cavity parameters.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateFeb 19, 2026

Core issue: the environmental impacts of where your apples are grown

New research from Cranfield University analyzed the environmental impact of fresh apples sold in the UK, finding that imports from water-stressed regions like South Africa and Spain have significantly higher water scarcity impacts. The study suggests regional sourcing can help manage trade-offs across the supply chain.

SourceCranfield University·JournalAgricultural Water Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 19, 2026

Mizzou study links ‘dark pool’ trading activity to stock price crashes and accounting manipulation

A University of Missouri study reveals that private dark pools attract inexperienced investors and allow companies to delay sharing bad news, increasing the likelihood of sudden stock price crashes. Dark pools also enable accounting manipulation by allowing managers to hide bad news through unusual accounting adjustments.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Business Finance &amp Accounting·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 19, 2026

Periods may trigger pain for many who have sickle cell disease

A nationwide study found that periods can trigger severe pain in many women and girls with sickle cell disease, leading to emergency department visits and hospitalizations. The study's authors recommend a routine menstrual history screening as part of annual sickle cell care and connecting patients with reproductive health specialists.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 19, 2026

Mount Sinai study may help cancer patients keep their bladder

Researchers developed a molecular monitoring approach to identify patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer who can safely preserve their bladder without compromising cancer outcomes. The study found that ultra-sensitive testing of tumor-derived DNA in blood and urine may help predict metastatic risk and identify patients with an ex...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Similar kinases play distinct roles in the brain

A study published in Molecular Psychiatry reveals that kinases MNK1 and MNK2 have distinct functions in the brain, regulating different behaviors such as social contacts and object recognition. The findings suggest that targeting each kinase individually may be more effective for treating neurological disorders.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

New research takes first step toward advance warnings of space weather

A new tool developed by Southwest Research Institute and National Science Foundation's National Center for Atmospheric Research provides a first step toward forecasting space weather weeks in advance. The PINNBARDS framework connects surface observations of solar active regions to deep solar magnetic dynamics, offering potential for su...

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 19, 2026

Scientists unlock a massive new ‘color palette’ for biomedical research by synthesizing non-natural amino acids

A UC Santa Barbara research team has developed a method to efficiently synthesize non-natural amino acids and apply them to peptide construction. This technique provides greater access to amino acids beyond the 22 found in nature, opening up new possibilities for biochemists, medical researchers, and materials scientists.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 19, 2026

Justice after trauma? Race, red tape keep sexual assault victims from compensation

A new study from the University of Michigan found that bureaucratic hurdles and racial disparities significantly impact access to victim compensation for adult survivors of sexual assault. The study revealed that Black and Indigenous women's claims were less likely to be approved, while excessive documentation requirements also contrib...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateFeb 19, 2026

Stronger scents and healthier crops: unlocking plants’ hidden potential through precision gene editing

Researchers used a virus-based CRISPR system to edit the gatekeeper enzyme HMGR in petunias and lettuce, unlocking natural metabolic control for enhanced aromatic compounds and health-promoting antioxidants. The result was more vigorous growth, stronger floral fragrance, and increased nutritional value.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Houston Methodist research reveals how the eyes may be a window into early Alzheimer’s detection

A new study from Houston Methodist suggests that the outer area of the retina may hold clues to early Alzheimer's detection, potentially allowing for non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring. Researchers found that changes in retinal cells and blood vessels can indicate the onset of AD years before symptoms appear.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Lower risk of exposure to cereulide following continued recall of infant formula products across European countries

A Rapid Outbreak Assessment published by ECDC and EFSA concludes that the likelihood of exposure to contaminated infant formula is low due to ongoing recalls. Most affected children experience mild symptoms, but infants under six months are more vulnerable to dehydration and electrolyte disturbances.

Plant-based material offers sustainable method of recovering rare earth element

Researchers at Penn State develop novel technology to isolate and recover dysprosium, a critical rare earth element used in semiconductors and other applications. The new approach uses cellulose-based nanocellulose to selectively separate dysprosium from other elements, promoting a more environmentally friendly and efficient method.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Study finds 1.9 million year out-of-Africa migration wave leaves its mark in the Jordan Valley

A new study has determined that the Ubeidiya site in the Jordan Valley dates back at least 1.9 million years, revealing a significant shift in our understanding of early human history. The discovery suggests that ancient pioneers were established in the Levant at the dawn of humanity's global expansion, using diverse stone tools.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

New method for housane synthesis

Chemists at the University of Münster developed a new method to produce high-grade housane molecules, which are small tri- or quadripartite ring molecules crucial for drug development and materials science. The reaction is triggered by photocatalysis, enabling efficient access to valuable products.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Brain cells drive endurance gains after exercise

A team of researchers from The Jackson Laboratory and the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that specialized neurons in the brain's hypothalamus play a crucial role in signaling the body to start the recovery process after exercise. These neurons, which express a protein called steroidogenic factor-1 (SF1), become active for a...

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

KAIST overcomes limitations of existing image sensors… clear colors even under oblique light​

Researchers at KAIST have developed a new image sensor technology that can accurately represent colors regardless of the angle at which light enters. The team achieved this by utilizing a 'metamaterial' that designs the movement of light through structures too small to be seen with the naked eye.

Targeted radiation therapy improves quality of life outcomes for patients with multiple brain metastases

A Phase 3 trial found stereotactic radiation targeting individual tumors improved symptom burden, cognitive outcomes, and daily function compared to whole brain radiation. Patients managed with stereotactic radiation also displayed better performance status and could remain more independent with everyday activities.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 19, 2026

Why do people living at high altitudes have better glucose control? The answer was in plain sight

Research reveals that people living at high altitudes have better glucose control due to an increased ability of red blood cells to take up and metabolize glucose. Studies in mice show that this occurs when RBCs are reprogrammed by hypoxic conditions, allowing them to adapt to low oxygen levels and aid the body's oxygen delivery.

SourceArc Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

ESE and ESPE launch joint transition of care guidance to improve outcomes for young people moving from child to adult endocrine care

The ESE and ESPE have launched a landmark Joint Clinical Practice Guidance to support structured and effective transition of young people with endocrine conditions. The Guidance provides practical, evidence-based recommendations to ensure continuity, safety and quality of care during this critical phase in a patient's life.

Scrub typhus a threat in the home, study in South India finds

A new study conducted with the help of communities in Tamil Nadu suggests that most human scrub typhus infections may occur inside villages rather than during agricultural work. Chigger numbers on rats and shrews caught within human settlements were far higher, indicating a potential increased risk of infection.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Missed opportunity to protect pregnant women and newborns: Study shows low vaccination rates among expectant mothers in Norway against COVID-19 and influenza

A study of over 50,000 pregnant women in Norway found low vaccination rates against COVID-19 and influenza, with only 29.9% and 12.1% vaccinated respectively. The study highlights the need for targeted strategies to improve vaccination uptake among expectant mothers.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 19, 2026

‘The munchies’ are real and could benefit those with no appetite

A study by Washington State University and the University of Calgary found that cannabis use increases appetite in humans and rodents alike, regardless of food consumption or body mass index. The researchers discovered that the brain's cannabinoid receptors play a key role in stimulating hunger, paving the way for future treatments.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Neighborhood factors may lead to increased COPD-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations

A new study reveals that neighborhood characteristics, including poverty and lower educational attainment, are associated with higher COPD-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Community-level interventions targeting these risk factors can help improve quality of life and reduce acute care use.

SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Jeonbuk National University researchers explore metal oxide electrodes as a new frontier in electrochemical microplastic detection

Researchers at Jeonbuk National University have developed a new method for detecting microplastics using metal oxide electrodes, offering a rapid and sensitive solution for environmental monitoring. The technology has the potential to replace traditional spectroscopic methods with its portability, low cost, and real-time capabilities.

SourceJeonbuk National University, Sustainable Strategy team, Planning and Coordination Division·JournalTrends in Environmental Analytical Chemistry·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 19, 2026

Study shows low-field MRI is feasible for breast screening

Researchers at Mass General Brigham have demonstrated the technical feasibility of using ultra-low field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for breast imaging, offering an alternative to existing methods and potentially reducing barriers to screening. Further study is needed to establish diagnostic performance and refine technology.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Scientists discover a key mechanism regulating how oxytocin is released in the mouse brain

Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism that regulates the slow and sustained release of oxytocin within the brain, which is essential for modulating social interactions. This finding provides new insights into how hormonal signaling is regulated in the brain and opens avenues for research into neuropsychiatric disorders.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026