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Science News Archive February 2026 - Page 13


Page 13 of 45

Toxic exposure creates epigenetic disease risk over 20 generations

A new study found that a single toxic fungicide exposure during pregnancy can increase the risk of disease for 20 subsequent generations, with inherited health problems worsening over time. The study suggests that epigenetic disease inheritance could help explain rising chronic disease rates in humans.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2026

More time spent on social media linked to steroid use intentions among boys and men

A new study found that social media use, particularly exposure to muscularity-focused content and body comparisons, is strongly associated with increased intentions to use anabolic-androgenic steroids. Young men who frequently view muscular bodies or advertisements promoting muscle-building supplements also report stronger intentions.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalBody Image·DateFeb 20, 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.

New study suggests a “kick it while it’s down” approach to cancer treatment could improve cure rates

A new study suggests that switching to a second treatment while a tumor is still responding to the first may improve cure rates. The 'kick it while it's down' approach targets small tumors and has been shown to be successful in other contexts, such as combatting antibiotic resistance.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalGenetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2026

Discovery could improve immune checkpoint inhibitor safety

Scientists at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have discovered a way to reduce the risk of a lethal side effect in cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. By targeting CD8 T cell-derived tumor necrosis factor, they found that blocking TNF signaling can prevent inflammatory cycle in the heart.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2026

Study: Anxiety, gloom often accompany intellectual deficits

A study analyzing data from 44,000 adults found that those with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience substantially higher rates of anxiety and depression. The study also highlights significant healthcare treatment and access barriers facing this population.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 20, 2026
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine ahead-of-print tip sheet: February 20, 2026

Researchers have made significant advancements in nuclear medicine by developing a new reporting framework for PET/CT scans, using targeted radiation therapy to treat sarcoma, and investigating how genetic mutations affect prostate cancer treatment outcomes. These studies aim to improve diagnosis and treatment for various cancers.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2026

New strategies boost effectiveness of CAR-NK therapy against cancer

Researchers at the Center for Cell-Based Therapy developed a new approach to enhance CAR-NK cell cytotoxicity, combining optimized co-stimulation with reversible pharmacological control. The study showed increased tumor control in animal models, paving the way for improved cancer treatment.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateFeb 20, 2026

Invisible harms: drug-related deaths spike after hurricanes and tropical storms

Researchers found a significant association between tropical cyclone exposure and psychoactive drug-related deaths, with the effect more pronounced in wealthy, White communities. Younger populations, especially those aged 15 to 29 years, were also disproportionately affected.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The quantum trembling: Why there are no truly flat molecules

Researchers at Goethe University used X-ray radiation to determine the spatial structure of formic acid, finding that its atoms oscillate slightly back and forth. This 'quantum trembling' causes the molecule to lose its symmetry and become effectively three-dimensional at almost every moment.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2026

Impact-formed glass evidence of cosmic collision in Brazil about 6 million years ago

Researchers have identified a field of tektites in Brazilian territory, which may have been formed by a single cosmic collision event. The geraisites, named after the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais where they were first discovered, have distinct geochemical signatures and date back approximately 6.3 million years.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGeology·DateFeb 20, 2026

Physicists may have found the missing link for quantum computers

Researchers at NTNU believe they've discovered a potential superconductor, NbRe, that can enable spin-based computing with near-zero resistance. This breakthrough has significant implications for the future of quantum technology and could lead to faster, more energy-efficient computers.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2026
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New insights into how bacteria control DNA synthesis open the door to next generation antimicrobials

The study provides detailed information on NrdR, a master regulator of ribonucleotide reductases in bacteria. It reveals how NrdR senses nucleotide levels and controls RNR expression, providing a new strategic entry point for antimicrobial development.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 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.

Max Planck spin-off draws Epic Games to Tübingen

Epic Games has acquired Meshcapade, a Max Planck startup that develops solutions for creating and animating digital humans. The technology, based on the SMPL body model, enables realistic human movement and expression in 3D.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2026

Reduced alcohol consumption with Mounjaro’s active substance

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have found that tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, reduces voluntary alcohol consumption by more than half in animals. The study also shows that the drug prevents relapse-like drinking and decreases drinking levels after a period without alcohol.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 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.

CDI scientists home in on acinetobacter baumannii's resistance evolution

A team of CDI scientists has identified the genetic basis of Acinetobacter baumannii's resistance to Cefiderocol, a last-line antibiotic. The study provides insights into the evolution of resistance and highlights the need for integrated surveillance strategies to prevent further resistance.

SourceHackensack Meridian Health·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2026

Key alterations in the cerebral cortex of people with psychosis

The study reveals that psychosis does not follow a single trajectory but is influenced by individual differences and treatment. It shows that cortical volume reduction, particularly in regions with high serotonin and dopamine receptor density, is a hallmark of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 20, 2026

ACS Central Science | Researchers from Insilico Medicine and Lilly publish foundational vision for fully autonomous “Prompt-to-Drug” pharmaceutical R&D

Researchers from Insilico Medicine and Lilly outline a comprehensive framework for fully autonomous, AI-orchestrated drug discovery. The vision integrates AI-driven target discovery, generative chemistry, automated synthesis, biological validation, and clinical planning into a single workflow.

SourceInSilico Medicine·TypeNews article·DateFeb 20, 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.

Here's why you need a backup for the map on your phone

A recent study found that 81% of hikers rely on mobile phones for navigation, increasing the risk of getting lost or ending up in dangerous situations. Researchers emphasize the need for alternative strategies, such as using paper maps, marked trails, and asking other hikers, to ensure safe travel.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Navigation·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 20, 2026

Novel wireless origami-inspired smart cushioning device for safer logistics

A novel wireless origami-inspired smart cushioning device has been developed to monitor deformation and detect damage to transported goods. The self-folded origami honeycomb device, integrated with passive wireless sensors, can provide real-time information on load conditions and impact.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·Journalnpj Flexible Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2026
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Tackling uplift resistance in tall infrastructures sustainably

Researchers developed a winged composite pile foundation system to enhance wind resistance and utilize surplus excavated soil. The study found that larger expanded base wing diameters significantly increased uplift resistance, while soil density and surface characteristics of the steel components also played crucial roles.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalResults in Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2026

Physical function is a crucial predictor of survival after heart failure

Researchers developed a new model to predict long-term survival after heart failure in elderly Japanese patients. The Top-20 XGBoost model incorporates physical function metrics, rivaling the importance of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and provides a more accurate estimation of mortality risk.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2026

Hidden genetic mismatch, which triples the risk of a life-threatening immune attack after cord blood transplantation

A large registry study identifies a specific genetic mismatch linked to severe acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) after cord blood transplantation, tripling the risk of life-threatening complications. Researchers found that a particular HLA combination in donors and recipients increased aGVHD risk by threefold.

SourceFujita Health University·JournalTransplantation and Cellular Therapy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2026

Screening improves early detection of colorectal cancer

Researchers found that both screening methods lead to more cases of early-stage cancer being detected, especially in the first two years. The study suggests that screening may have a preventive effect by removing precursors to cancer.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 20, 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.

AABNet and partners launch landmark guide on the conservation of African livestock genetic resources and sustainable breeding strategies

The new open-access reference guide emphasizes that breeding objectives must reflect farmer priorities and production realities. Local breeds are critical for climate adaptation and resilience in small-scale and low-input production systems, but many are at risk of extinction due to indiscriminate crossbreeding with exotic breeds.

SourceInternational Livestock Research Institute·DateFeb 20, 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.

Scientists reveal our best- and worst-case scenarios for a warming Antarctica

A new study reveals the best- and worst-case scenarios for climate change in Antarctica, highlighting the urgent need to reduce emissions. Under high-emissions scenarios, Antarctica's ice shelves, glaciers, and iconic species could collapse, driving sea level rise and devastating ecosystems.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2026

Cleaner fish show intelligence typical of mammals

Researchers observed cleaner wrasse recognizing themselves in mirrors and experimenting with it, suggesting advanced intelligence known as 'contingency testing'. The fish also demonstrated flexible, self-referential processing, indicating widespread self-awareness across taxonomic groups, including fish.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2026

Produce hydrogen and oxygen simultaneously from a single atom! Achieve carbon neutrality with an 'All-in-one' single-atom water electrolysis catalyst

Researchers at KIST developed an all-in-one single-atom water electrolysis catalyst that stably performs both hydrogen evolution and oxygen evolution reactions on a single electrode. This technology significantly reduces precious metal usage while achieving outstanding performance and durability.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 20, 2026

Sleep loss linked to higher atrial fibrillation risk in working-age adults

A new multicenter study by Kumamoto University and National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center found that working-age adults with shorter sleep durations are more likely to develop atrial fibrillation. In contrast, retirees showed no significant association between sleep duration and AF risk.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCirculation Reports·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 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 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.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateFeb 19, 2026

Water is bed bugs’ kryptonite

A University of California - Riverside study has identified bed bugs' fear of water and wet surfaces, which affects their behavior and movement patterns. Researchers found that all bed bug ages and genders avoid wet surfaces, with younger insects being more sensitive to moisture.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Ethology·DateFeb 19, 2026

Most AI bots lack basic safety disclosures, study finds

A new study by the University of Cambridge found that many AI bots lack basic safety disclosures, including transparency about their abilities and potential risks. The 'AI Agent Index' revealed a significant transparency gap, with only four out of thirty agents publishing formal safety and evaluation documents.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 19, 2026

How competitive gaming on discord fosters social connections

Researchers found that Discord community Medimura functions as a 'third place,' providing a safe space for players to connect and share daily life. The study highlights the importance of digital platforms in promoting social wellbeing, particularly in Japan where casual social interactions can be limited.

SourceDoshisha University·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 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.

Phonon lasers unlock ultrabroadband acoustic frequency combs

Researchers have developed a new way to generate acoustic frequency combs using phonon lasers, producing tunable comb teeth spanning from audible to ultrasonic frequencies. The breakthrough enables the creation of ultrabroadband acoustic frequency combs with thousands of evenly spaced frequencies.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateFeb 19, 2026

Helping beekeepers fight mites through more effective treatments

A study published in the Journal of Apicultural Research found that combining a widely used mite-killing pesticide with an agent inhibiting its tolerance can effectively control varroa mites. The new treatment increases amitraz's killing power by 50% and shows promise for developing novel synergists to target these destructive mites.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Apicultural Research·DateFeb 19, 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.

Supercomputers help solve long-standing astronomical problem

Researchers used high-resolution simulations to identify the impact of stellar rotation on element transport across a barrier layer in red giant stars. They found that rapid rotation amplifies wave mixing, resulting in observed chemical signatures.

SourceUniversity of Victoria·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 19, 2026

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.

SourceNational Multiple Sclerosis Society·DateFeb 19, 2026
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

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.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026