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Science News for February 26, 2026


NUS launches Singapore’s first concurrent nursing-informatics degree to build a digitally ready nursing workforce

The new Concurrent Degree Programme combines Bachelor of Science (Nursing) with Master of Science (Biomedical Informatics), equipping nurses with strong capabilities in clinical practice and informatics. Graduates will confidently use complex digital systems and apply insights in real-time to deliver high-quality patient care.

HKUST develops first AI toolkit “GrainBot” to automate quantitative microstructure analysis

A research team from HKUST developed GrainBot, an AI-enabled toolkit that automates the extraction and quantification of multiple microstructural features from microscopy images. This provides a systematic method for converting complex image information into quantitative data, accelerating materials discovery and development.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalMatter·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 26, 2026

Enhancing photocatalytic uranium extraction from wastewater by regulating flexible units of covalent organic frameworks

Researchers developed a novel design strategy for constructing flexible COF photocatalysts, achieving precise control over pore curvature and photoelectric properties. The constructed photocatalyst exhibited excellent photocatalytic uranium removal performance in contaminated groundwater and tap water.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

“Even adult brains remodel themselves” ... Successfully identified how “sensory checkpoint” upgrades in adulthood for the first time in the world

Researchers found that adult brains remodel their sensory checkpoints, allowing for high-resolution sensory perception. The brain's 'sensory checkpoint' is reorganized during adulthood to filter out unnecessary sensory signals and receive only important information more clearly.

A novel technology to explore peptides as drug targets with high precision without using cells

Researchers developed a novel method to immobilize proteins onto magnetic microbeads, allowing precise measurement of binding strength and efficient selection of target peptides. The technique achieved a 10,000-fold concentration in a single sorting step, significantly enhancing the efficiency of drug discovery research.

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

Can smart cameras improve evacuations? A new approach to smarter crowd mapping

Researchers developed a color-guided depth recovery method for non-repetitive LiDAR images to improve real-time crowd monitoring during disasters. The method reconstructs continuous depth structures while preventing over-smoothing and overfilling gaps, achieving improved depth accuracy and structural consistency.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalTransportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 26, 2026

Nanoplastics can interact with Salmonella to affect food safety, study shows

Researchers found that nanoplastics can increase the virulence of Salmonella, causing it to form thicker biofilms. Prolonged exposure slows down stress response, allowing bacteria to persist in the environment. Further research is needed to determine the impact on antibiotic resistance.

Green turtle nests may bury ‘plastic rocks’ and endanger the species

Researchers from São Paulo State University detected plastic rocks on Trindade Island, Brazil's easternmost territory, where green turtle nests are conducive to plastic accumulation and burial. The study highlights the need for public policies to manage plastic waste and coordinated actions to clean up beaches.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateFeb 26, 2026

Digital clinical decision support algorithm substantially reduced antibiotic prescribing without compromising clinical recovery, according to non-randomized controlled trial in 32 Rwandan health centers

A digital clinical decision support algorithm substantially reduced antibiotic prescribing in pediatric outpatient care in Rwanda, according to a non-randomized controlled trial. The study found no compromise in clinical recovery, suggesting the algorithm's effectiveness in guiding appropriate treatment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

How ancient attraction shaped the human genome

Researchers found that long-standing mating preferences led to sex-biased interbreeding, resulting in the loss of Neanderthal DNA on X chromosomes. The study reveals a complex social history of human evolution, challenging the idea that survival of the fittest drove human migration.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2026

Rice stink bug genetic mapping offers clues to curb a costly crop pest

Researchers have discovered that native rice stink bugs have more genetic diversity than invasive species, which could help monitor the spread of insecticide resistance. This study provides valuable insights into pest management for Arkansas rice growers, who face significant costs due to the bug's impact on their crops.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalFlorida Entomologist·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2026

Hormone therapy may not benefit most men receiving radiotherapy after prostate surgery, UCLA study finds

A new UCLA study suggests that adding hormone therapy to post-operative radiotherapy may provide little survival benefit for most men with prostate cancer, especially those with low PSA levels. However, men with higher PSA levels before radiation may see modest improvements in survival and metastasis-free survival.

App aids substance use recovery in vulnerable populations

A mobile app has been shown to significantly reduce opioid and non-opioid substance use among adults with unstable housing, as well as improve mental health measures. The uMAT-R app provides free support and resources for people with any substance use disorder, including misuse of opioids, stimulants, and hallucinogens.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2026

New discovery of younger Ediacaran biota

Researchers have uncovered a new, exceptionally preserved fossil site in Newfoundland, Canada, dating back to 551 Ma. This find dramatically alters our understanding of the 'Kotlin Crisis,' the first extinction event in animal history, which is now estimated to have resulted in an astonishing 80% loss of biodiversity.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateFeb 26, 2026

Improved short-term sea level change predictions with better AI training

Researchers developed a new AI-based SLA forecasting model that outperforms existing approaches and can be widely applied to other prediction tasks. The Multistep-Earthformer model achieves high-accuracy short- and medium-range sea level anomaly forecasting by optimizing training strategies.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 26, 2026

New water-treatment system removes nitrogen, phosphorus from farm tile drainage

A new edge-of-field water-treatment system has been developed to reduce excess nutrients washing into waterways from farm drainage systems. The system, combining woodchip bioreactors with biochar water-treatment modules, demonstrated significant reductions in nitrogen and phosphorus runoff.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Water Process Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

Lipid molecules reorganize at drying interfaces

A new discovery from Lund University reveals that minor changes in moisture levels can promote lipid molecule reorganization, affecting skin, lung, and tear film protection from dehydration. This understanding can inspire smart materials and improve lipid-based drug delivery systems.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2026

Immune cells link lactation to long-lasting health

Recent studies show that T cells support milk production and have lasting effects on maternal health and infant immunity. The review highlights emerging evidence of the crucial role of immune cells in lactation, which can inform strategies to improve maternal and infant health outcomes.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Immunology·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 26, 2026

Fertility preservation in people with cancer

The article summarizes updated recommendations on fertility preservation in people with cancer, considering potential health risks to offspring and treatment side effects. Clinicians should inform patients about available options before treatment initiation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 26, 2026

Bacterial cellulose as a sustainable vehicle for the controlled release of nisin and mandelic acid: A clean beauty-based approach for acne treatment

A study developed a bacterial cellulose-based delivery system loaded with nisin and mandelic acid to target acne treatment. The system exhibited strong antibacterial activity and antioxidant properties, while showing minimal cytotoxicity in fibroblast cells.

SourceJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

When you stumble, laughter beats embarrassment

Laughter beats embarrassment when making small mistakes, research from the American Psychological Association finds. Laughing at oneself signals social confidence and reduces tension, while acting embarrassed may be perceived as excessive. The study suggests that humor is socially effective in certain situations but risky in others.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

New research offers businesses a playbook for surviving social media firestorms

A new study from Binghamton University School of Management provides a framework for organizations to anticipate, interpret, and respond to social media backlash. The toolkit identifies four phases of online social disapproval and offers guiding questions and analytical indicators to aid in early detection, response, and recovery.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Business Strategy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 26, 2026

CSIC develops an antibody that protects immune system cells in vitro from a dangerous hospital-acquired bacterium

A new monoclonal antibody neutralizes the toxin pyocyanin produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, reducing cellular damage and increasing survival of immune cells. This approach has the potential to reduce antibiotic use and minimize infection progression without promoting antibiotic resistance.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·TypeNews article·DateFeb 26, 2026

Paradigm shift in immune checkpoint biology

A recent study reveals that PD-L1 functions beyond immune regulation to regulate intracellular signaling pathways within cancer cells. The research team identified a novel molecular mechanism by which PD-L1 directly regulates autophagy signaling, leading to reduced cell proliferation and suppressed tumor growth in lung cancer models.

SourceSungkyunkwan University External Affairs Division (PR team)·JournalExperimental Hematology and Oncology·DateFeb 26, 2026

A study by the Politecnico di Milano confirms the relationship between migration and water scarcity

A recent study by Politecnico di Milano researchers reveals that environmental migration in Somalia is primarily driven by water scarcity, with over three-quarters of cases linked to droughts and food insecurity. The study emphasizes the need for community-led solutions, coordinated policies, and international collaboration to address ...

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature Food·DateFeb 26, 2026

Trust your gut to heal your brain

Researchers at Houston Methodist found that short-term antibiotic treatment significantly reduced neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration following traumatic brain injury by altering the gut microbiome. Beneficial bacteria Parasutterella excrementihominis and Lactobacillus johnsonii drove cell repair, while reducing harmful gut bacteria.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 26, 2026

Matching vibrations is all it takes to modify materials

Scientists at Columbia University have experimentally confirmed that quantum fluctuations in a 2D material can alter the properties of a nearby crystal. The team placed a nanometer-sized flake of hexagonal Boron nitride on top of a superconducting material, where the vibrations matched and interacted, suppressing superconductivity.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature·DateFeb 26, 2026

New study challenges assumptions behind Africa’s Green Revolution efforts and calls for farmer-centered development models

A new study examining small-scale farming in Tanzania argues that major agricultural development initiatives are built on flawed assumptions about how rural households make decisions. The research finds that household composition, gender dynamics, and labor constraints strongly shape how small-scale farmers allocate land and labor.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalRural Sociology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2026

Pickleball players’ reported use of protective eyewear

Pickleball professionals and amateurs showed low use of high-quality protective eyewear, with many relying on personal prescription glasses that may not provide adequate protection. This study underscores the importance of consistent use of well-fitting protective eyewear to prevent pickleball-related eye injuries.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateFeb 26, 2026

Safe artificial intelligence isn’t enough, according to new Georgia Tech research

AI research at Georgia Tech suggests that simple safety measures are not enough to address the technology's moral implications. The study proposes a middle ground between safe and autonomous AI by advocating for 'end-constrained ethical AI.' This approach prioritizes fairness, honesty, and transparency in AI decision-making.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience and Engineering Ethics·DateFeb 26, 2026

Mitochondria influence lipid storage in cells

A recent study at the Universities of Bonn and Freiburg has discovered a previously unknown mechanism by which mitochondria influence lipid storage in cells. The molecular machine MIM complex and enzyme Ayr1 play key roles in this process, which affects cellular lipid metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

Turning over a new leaf in analyses of natural products

Researchers created an automated method to quickly analyze the metabolic effects of natural products, such as kratom, using high-resolution mass spectrometry and molecular network mapping. This breakthrough provides a detailed view of how chemicals are reshaped by human metabolism, marking a major step in natural products research.

SourceEmory University·JournalJournal of Natural Products·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2026

Understanding GLP-1 signaling: A path to better therapies

A new study finds that a novel GLP-1 receptor agonist, Exendin-4-Phe (Ex-Phe-1), preserves glycemic control while reducing malaise and vomiting behaviors in preclinical models. The compound uses biased agonism to selectively activate certain signaling pathways, achieving desired effects without triggering others.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalDiabetes Obesity and Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

New study reveals why global IT strategies change shape on the ground - and what leaders can do about it

A new study reveals that global digital strategies are interpreted and negotiated within cultural contexts, shaping the way they are put into practice across borders. The research introduces a grounded theory framework to help leaders understand how technology, organisations, and culture interact in real-world settings.

SourceUniversity of East London·JournalQualitative Research Journal·TypeCase study·DateFeb 26, 2026

New study highlights the importance of careful multiple-choice question construction to ensure fairness and accurately reflect student abilities

Researchers found that poorly written questions disproportionately affect weaker students, while high-performing students can navigate flaws more easily. The study suggests that improved faculty training and rigorous test question review are necessary to ensure fair assessments.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalMedical Science Educator·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 26, 2026

When safety starts with a text message

A study by the University of Texas at Arlington found that digital hotlines are providing anonymity, easy access, and a lower-pressure way for survivors to seek help. Advocates tailor their guidance to each person's situation, building a plan together while ensuring the survivor is in a safe space.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateFeb 26, 2026

How stepping into nature affects the brain

A comprehensive review of over 100 brain-imaging studies reveals that connecting with nature triggers changes in the brain, calming stress and restoring attention. The study supports the emerging field of nature connectedness, suggesting that spending time outdoors can lead to measurable changes and has a broader societal impact.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 26, 2026

Summarizing ten years of research: new study explains why children enter puberty earlier

A new Danish study compiles ten years of research identifying several factors during pregnancy and childhood that advance the timing of puberty, including genetic predisposition, maternal health, and psychosocial stressors. The study found an average shift of about three months, affecting both physical wellbeing and later health outcomes.

SourceAarhus University·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 26, 2026

Molecular identification of an enzyme reported over 60 years ago

Researchers have identified the molecular structure of GL300_RS07945, a long-misunderstood enzyme, and found it to be L-threonate 3-dehydrogenase, which plays a crucial role in metabolizing C5/C6 sugar acids via the L-threonate pathway. This discovery provides significant insights into the metabolic processes of bacteria.

SourceEhime University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 26, 2026

Atomic precision unlocks smarter oxygen reduction catalysts

Researchers at Tohoku University discovered that subtle variations in coordination symmetry significantly alter reaction energetics and product selectivity in single-atom electrocatalysts. Asymmetric Co-N3 sites exhibited enhanced overall ORR activity, while lower-symmetry Co-N5 centers achieved the highest selectivity toward hydrogen ...

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 26, 2026

Shooting sports unlocked: how EEG reveal secrets of shooters

A systematic review categorizes EEG studies in shooting sports into four main directions, revealing brain plasticity principles and neural efficiency mechanisms underlying exceptional performance. Elite shooters exhibit enhanced activation in the right brain hemisphere, synchronizing alpha rhythms to suppress irrelevant thoughts.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalIntelligent Sports and Health·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 26, 2026

Music may not boost focus or mood during exercise, review suggests

A large review of studies found no consistent effect of music on focus or mood during exercise, with results varying depending on intensity and participant characteristics. The findings suggest that broad claims about music's benefits are not always supported and highlight the need for more rigorous study designs.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 26, 2026

Research | Multifunctional hydrogels for harsh environments: achieving broadband electromagnetic interference shielding and infrared stealth under ultra-low conductive filler content

Researchers develop a multifunctional hydrogel system with broadband electromagnetic interference shielding and infrared stealth performance, exceeding that of commercial-grade materials under various harsh conditions. The gel's mechanical robustness and environmental stability are enhanced by a synergistic MXene treatment strategy.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateFeb 26, 2026

Climate change in the past: first indicators of resilience in tropical life, provided that global warming did not exceed 1.5 degrees

A recent study found that tropical algae were largely unaffected by periods of global warming up to 1.5 degrees Celsius in the distant past. This resilience provides valuable insights into the potential consequences of climate change and supports the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees.

SourceUtrecht University·JournalGeology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 26, 2026

New evidence that ancient floods "rewrote" civilizations along the Yangtze River

Researchers found that widespread flooding in the Middle Yangtze Valley led to the decline of the Shijiahe culture around 4,200 years ago. The study used stalagmite analysis to reconstruct rainfall patterns and show that high-rainfall intervals were associated with increased flooding and a significant decline in population.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

Many nations underestimate greenhouse emissions from wastewater systems, but the lapse is fixable

Research from Princeton University reveals that nations globally underreport greenhouse gas emissions from wastewater facilities by up to 27%. Accurate estimates are crucial for sound public reporting and practical decision-making in the wastewater sector. The study finds that wastewater systems offer strong options for emissions reduc...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2026

Start school later, sleep longer, learn better

A new study found that flexible school start times can significantly improve teenagers' sleep patterns, reducing chronic sleep deprivation and its negative effects on mental health. Under a new model with flexible start and end times, students were able to get up 40 minutes later and slept an average of 45 minutes longer on school days.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2026

The Lancet: New weight loss pill leads to greater blood sugar control and weight loss for people with diabetes than current oral GLP-1, phase 3 trial finds

A phase 3 trial found that orforglipron, a novel GLP-1 receptor agonist pill, leads to greater blood sugar control and weight loss than current oral GLP-1 RA semaglutide in people with type 2 diabetes. Participants taking orforglipron had significantly greater reductions in body weight and blood sugar levels.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 26, 2026

New record: Laser cuts bone deeper than before

Researchers at the University of Basel have developed a new laser profile that enables deeper and faster cuts in hard tissues like bone. The top hat profile distributes energy more evenly, overcoming limitations of traditional laser systems and enabling joint implants and custom-made 3D-printed implants.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 26, 2026

New treatment may dramatically improve survival for those with deadly brain cancer

Researchers at the University of Southern California Health Sciences have discovered a new treatment approach that combines laser heat therapy with immunotherapy to improve survival rates for patients with high-grade astrocytoma. Nearly half of patients treated with this combination were still alive after 18 months, exceeding the typic...

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2026

Will melting glaciers slow climate change? A prevailing theory is on shaky ground

Researchers from Rutgers University found that melting glaciers in Antarctica supply far less iron to surrounding waters than previously thought. The study challenges the long-held theory of iron fertilization, which suggested that glacial melting would feed blooms of microscopic algae and remove heat-trapping carbon dioxide from the a...

SourceRutgers University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateFeb 26, 2026

Here we grow: chondrocytes’ behavior reveals novel targets for bone growth disorders

A team at The University of Osaka has identified a signaling molecule called FGFR3 and a pathway called CREB as key in regulating bone growth. Cells carrying the genetic mutation associated with achondroplasia accumulate in the resting zone and show abnormal behaviors, which included abnormal patterns of division and migration.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

Speaking from the heart: Study identifies key concerns of parenting with an early-onset cardiovascular condition

Research highlights the challenges of managing an early-onset cardiovascular condition while raising younger children, including uncertainty about communicating with children, physical and emotional strain on daily life, and heightened awareness of potential genetic risks. The study emphasizes the need for developmentally appropriate c...

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 26, 2026