Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2026 - Page 11


Page 11 of 45

Scientists report landmark “evolutionary double-bind” strategy to overcome treatment resistance in prostate cancer

Researchers found that radiation-resistant cancer cells are vulnerable to NK cell-mediated killing due to increased expression of specific cellular membrane proteins, creating an 'evolutionary double-bind'. The combination of radiation therapy and NK cell-based immunotherapy was more effective in suppressing both sensitive and resistan...

SourceTrinity College Dublin·DateFeb 23, 2026

New rice gene breaks the yield–quality trade-off in rice

A new rice gene, GSN7, has been discovered that can simultaneously increase grain yield and improve quality. The study found that precise manipulation of this gene can overcome the long-standing trade-off between yield and quality in rice breeding.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateFeb 23, 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.

Scientists create sustainable and cheaper catalysts from aluminium

Researchers at King's College London have developed highly reactive aluminium molecules that can break apart tough chemical bonds. The team discovered a new compound called cyclotrialumane, which exhibits unprecedented reactivity and retains its structure in various solutions.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature·DateFeb 23, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Prussian blue goes from pigment to purification

Scientists at the University of Chicago have created Prussian blue analogs that can achieve 99.9% lithium purification, opening up new opportunities for separating industrial waste ions from environmental streams. The unique structure of Prussian blue analogs allows for selective filtering and purification.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalMatter·DateFeb 23, 2026

New study on obesity criteria shows: vast majority of affected individuals are classified as clinically obese

A new study found that almost all people with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) exhibit increased body fat mass and health-related complications. Clinical obesity is associated with a 3-8 times higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes compared to non-obese individuals.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2026

Schizophrenia: from neurobiology to novel therapies - a comprehensive review

Researchers review schizophrenia mechanisms, including neurotransmitter dysregulation and immune dysfunction, to develop next-generation therapies. Promising treatments include TAAR1 agonists, muscarinic modulators, NMDA receptor enhancers, and probiotics targeting the gut-brain axis.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 23, 2026

Hearing loss contributes to cognitive decline after childhood cancer treatment

A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that radiation therapy contributes to hearing loss in children treated for brain tumors, leading to greater cognitive decline. Children with severe hearing loss experienced a more significant decline in cognitive measures compared to those without.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNeuro-Oncology·DateFeb 23, 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.

How the brain suppresses itch during stress

Researchers at IISc have mapped a neural circuit that links stress to itch. Stress activates specific neurons in the lateral hypothalamic area, which directly regulate itch and reduce scratching behavior. This study provides new insights into the complex relationship between emotional states and sensory perception.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 23, 2026

Online searches for crisis hotlines surged worldwide and rise in the same months as suicide-related searches

A new study analyzing global Google Trends data reveals a sharp increase in online searches for crisis hotlines, particularly in recent years. The findings suggest that digital help-seeking signals can provide timely insight into population distress and demand for crisis resources.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2026

New research: AI chatbots may worsen mental illness

A new study published in Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica found that people with mental illness who use AI chatbots risk experiencing a worsening of their condition, particularly in terms of delusions and mania. Researchers are calling for increased awareness among healthcare professionals about the potential risks of AI chatbot use.

SourceAarhus University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 23, 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.

Waterloo researchers turning plastic waste into vinegar

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have discovered a way to convert microplastic waste into acetic acid, the main ingredient of vinegar, using sunlight. The breakthrough offers a promising new approach to reducing plastic pollution through photocatalysis, creating a valuable chemical product.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 23, 2026

SMART study reveals strategic flight connections key to attracting global business and investment

A new study by SMART has identified a strong statistical association between global air connectivity and patterns of multinational corporations' investments. The research found that few layovers meant more subsidiaries, with cities having better flight connections to influential hubs outperforming those with less-connected destinations.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Cities·DateFeb 23, 2026
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Artificial intelligence decodes tissue characteristics of type 2 diabetes

Researchers developed an AI approach to visualize subtle tissue changes in the pancreas for type 2 diabetes. The study created an extensive data set and trained deep learning models that accurately predicted diabetes status and identified potential biomarkers.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 23, 2026

University of Liège scientists reveals similarities between auroras on Ganymede and Earth

Astronomers have found that the fundamental physical processes generating auroras are common to different celestial bodies, including the largest moon in the solar system. Observations of Ganymede's auroras reveal locally fragmented patches similar to those on Earth and Jupiter, suggesting a universal mechanism for aurora formation.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateFeb 23, 2026

Sungkyunkwan University team led by Professor Taesung Kim pioneers next-generation AI semiconductors with a “thermal constraining” technique

Researchers developed a technology that precisely controls the internal structure of semiconductors using heat, enabling faster AI computations with reduced electricity. The approach improves the performance of next-generation artificial intelligence hardware.

SourceSungkyunkwan University External Affairs Division (PR team)·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 23, 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.

Bacteria with built-in compass

Researchers at the University of Basel have unlocked the magnetic properties of individual bacteria, enabling them to navigate using an Earth-based compass. This discovery holds promise for medical applications, such as magnetically controllable microrobots, and environmental research.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPhysical Review E·DateFeb 23, 2026

Polystyrene nanoparticles can increase fish embryo early mortality especially in a stressful environment

Research at University of Eastern Finland found that positively charged polystyrene nanoparticles increase early embryo mortality in European whitefish under stressed conditions. The study suggests that surface charge plays a critical role in toxicity assessment, with negatively charged particles experiencing reduced harmful effects.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAquatic Toxicology·DateFeb 23, 2026

Smarter tissue and organ repair thanks to made in Ottawa next-gen hydrogel

Researchers from the University of Ottawa have developed a groundbreaking biomaterial that combines strength, adaptability, and biological compatibility for soft tissue repair. The hydrogel is made from synthetic peptides and can be precisely tailored through chemical design, making it an attractive alternative to existing biomaterials.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2026

Ribosomes in pairs

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research discovered that stressed animal cells, including neurons, assemble inactive ribosomes into tightly linked pairs, known as disomes. This novel mechanism relies on a specific piece of ribosomal RNA called an expansion segment to form a precise RNA-RNA interaction.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateFeb 23, 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.

Stretchy plastics conduct electricity via tiny, whisker-like fibers

Researchers discovered that adding salt additives and water enables PEDOT:PSS to grow hair-like fibers conducting electricity. The material's stretchability and conductivity can be enhanced by adjusting the chemical makeup, making it suitable for bioelectronic devices.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2026

AI-boosted electronic nose detects ovarian cancer

Researchers at Linköping University have developed an AI-boosted electronic nose that can detect ovarian cancer from blood plasma samples with high accuracy. The method uses machine learning to identify patterns specific to the disease, making it a promising tool for early detection and improved survival rates.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateFeb 23, 2026

Alloy-engineered valleytronics

Researchers have observed a new microscopic mechanism enabling precise control of magneto-optical properties in alloys of two-dimensional semiconductors. The discovery opens up prospects for technological applications in devices exploiting valleytronics.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 23, 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.

New imaging technique could transform precision of vocal fold injection procedures

Researchers developed a new imaging technique using shortwave infrared imaging to visualize injectable filler materials during laryngoplasty, improving treatment accuracy and confirming correct placement. The technique has potential applications in identifying vocal fold pathologies and differentiating tissue layers.

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·JournalOtolaryngology·DateFeb 23, 2026

Mayo Clinic and Mercy advance collaboration to transform patient care

The collaboration will utilize Mayo Clinic Platform's secure infrastructure to analyze de-identified patient data from both institutions, enhancing research and driving innovation in healthcare. With access to over 15 million patients, the partnership aims to predict illness earlier, improve outcomes, and deliver more proactive care.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateFeb 23, 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.

Plant hormone therapy could improve global food security

Researchers at Colorado State University have found a way to boost plant growth while maintaining its immune system through hormone treatment, showing promise for increasing food production. The approach involves genetically manipulating phytohormone interactions to restore cell division and increase disease resistance.

SourceColorado State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 23, 2026

How horses whinny: Whistling while singing

Horses produce high-frequency sounds by whistling through their larynx while vibrating vocal folds. Researchers found that the high-frequency component of the whinny is generated by a laryngeal whistle, shifting to higher frequencies when helium is used.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2026

When influencers raise a glass, young viewers want to join them

A study from Rutgers University suggests that exposure to alcohol in social media drives the desire to drink. Young adults who viewed influencer posts with alcohol were significantly more likely to report increased desire to drink compared to those who watched similar posts without alcohol.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 23, 2026
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Measuring the expansion of the universe with cosmic fireworks

Astronomers have imaged and modeled an exceptionally rare supernova that could provide a new way to measure the universe's expansion rate. The supernova, known as SN Winny, is a superluminous stellar explosion 10 billion light-years away and appears five times in the night sky due to gravitational lensing.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2026

US newborn hepatitis B virus vaccination rates

A new study found that US newborn hepatitis B virus vaccination rates declined by over 10 percentage points in the last 2 years. This decline reverses 6 years of growth and is aligned with WHO and CDC coverage estimates through 2022.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 23, 2026

New study shows dry powder inhalers can improve patient outcomes and lower environmental impact

Researchers found that certain inhalers used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are not only less harmful to the environment but can also lead to slightly better patient outcomes. The dry powder inhaler was associated with a 14% lower risk of moderate or severe COPD exacerbations compared to metered-dose inhalers.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2026

Dietary patterns and indicators of cognitive function

A study published in JAMA Neurology found that adhering to healthy dietary patterns, such as the DASH diet, is associated with lower subjective cognitive decline and better cognitive function. The findings highlight the importance of a balanced diet for maintaining long-term brain health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateFeb 23, 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.

High-fiber diet linked to reduced risk of heart disease in night shift workers

A high-fiber diet has been linked to a reduced risk of coronary artery disease in night shift workers. The study, published in the European Journal of Epidemiology, found that consuming more fiber daily can lower the risk, with moderate intake recommended for those working night shifts regularly.

SourceUppsala University·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2026

Students run ‘bee hotels’ across Canada - DNA reveals who’s checking in

A Canada-wide study using DNA metabarcoding reveals the intricate relationships between cavity-nesting bees and wasps and their food sources. The project, involving over 5000 students, creates detailed maps of these interactions, providing valuable insights into biodiversity and conservation.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalMetabarcoding and Metagenomics·DateFeb 23, 2026

EPA criminal sanctions align with a county’s wealth, not pollution

A new study found that the US EPA's criminal prosecutions for environmental crimes correlate strongly with a county's socioeconomic status, rather than its level of pollution. Wealthier counties receive 24% more enforcement actions on average, while poorer counties are less likely to be targeted.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 23, 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.

Missing geomagnetic reversals in the geomagnetic reversal history

A team of researchers applied adaptive-bandwidth kernel density estimation to analyze the latest reversal timing dataset, revealing four distinct dips in the new reversal frequency model following the Cretaceous Normal Superchron. This suggests that short-time-interval geomagnetic reversals may be missing from the compiled record.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 23, 2026

Why laws named after tragedies win public support

Research by the American Psychological Association finds that eponymous laws, those named for victims of tragedy, surge in public support due to sympathy and emotional connection. However, this boost may come at the expense of effective policymaking.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology Public Policy and Law·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2026
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Researchers build ultra-efficient optical sensors shrinking light to a chip

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have developed high-performing optical microresonators that can trap light and build up its intensity. By guiding light smoothly through the resonator, they dramatically reduced light loss, allowing photons to circulate longer and interact more strongly inside the device.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 23, 2026

Engineers sharpen gene-editing tools to target cystic fibrosis

Engineers have refined a technology to edit individual genetic base pairs, reducing unintended edits and increasing safety for potential treatments. The new base editors could lead to better outcomes for some cystic fibrosis patients and more accurate models for drug testing.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalMolecular Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2026