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Science News Archive February 2026 - Page 15


Page 15 of 45

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

AERA selects 34 exemplary scholars as 2026 Fellows

The American Educational Research Association (AERA) has selected 34 outstanding scholars as the 2026 class of AERA Fellows. These researchers have made significant contributions to education research, advancing knowledge and promoting its application to improve education.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

What Zinc concentration in teeth reveals

Researchers have quantified zinc concentration in teeth using 3D X-ray tomography systems. They found a sharp increase in zinc concentration from the outside to the inside of the tooth, particularly near the pulp. This study has implications for dental care and material selection.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalView·TypeExperimental study·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

Cyber-attacks could disrupt smart factories by targeting time itself, study warns

Researchers at the University of East London identified a critical weakness in Industrial Internet of Things networks that can destabilize factories and safety-critical infrastructure. Attackers can exploit subtle 'delay attacks' to quietly disrupt coordination, making timing just as important as information in highly automated systems.

SourceUniversity of East London·JournalCluster Computing·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
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

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.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·DateFeb 19, 2026

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

The UBR5-Snail axis in colorectal cancer metastasis

Researchers identify UBR5 as a critical tumor suppressor that modulates Snail's stability, facilitating metastasis. UBR5 maintains epithelial phenotype by targeting Snail for degradation, while its deficiency promotes Snail stabilization and metastatic cascade.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateFeb 19, 2026

PAK1 promotes colorectal cancer progression—new insights

Researchers identify PAK1 as a key player in colorectal cancer progression through its ability to stabilize mRNA of oncogenic factors. Targeting PAK1 inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion, promoting the degradation of these transcripts and sensitizing tumors to standard-of-care treatments.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·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.

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

Leadership is the bedrock of real green culture, new research shows

Leadership behavior is the foundation of an authentic green workplace culture, with employees responding to leaders' environmental priorities and trusting their intentions. Trust is the mechanism that turns leadership intent into action, leading to higher levels of voluntary green behavior.

SourceUniversity of East London·JournalJournal of Organizational Effectiveness People and Performance·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 19, 2026

Nature-inspired novel route shaping nanocrystals

Researchers developed a novel route for transforming molecular crystals into quantum dot monoliths, mimicking geological weathering on a tiny scale. Uniformly sized zinc oxide quantum dots form within the original crystal structure, preserving its shape.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 19, 2026
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Artificial DNA base pair developed based on halogen bonds

Researchers have developed an artificial DNA base pair that relies on halogen bonds, enabling stable structures and recognizing naturally occurring enzymes. This breakthrough expands the genetic alphabet and could open up new possibilities in synthetic biology.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Social media images help fill “major gaps” in global biodiversity data

A new study shows that geotagged social media photos can improve biodiversity datasets by 35% and provide more accurate species distribution models. The enhanced models reveal range expansions in areas missed by traditional records, particularly in regions with sparse formal monitoring.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 19, 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.

IPK research team develops new method to study female meiosis in Arabidopsis

Researchers have developed a new method to study female meiosis in Arabidopsis, allowing for the identification of meiocytes and comparison with male germ cells. The FeM-ID approach uses biotin labeling to visualize female meiotic cells, revealing significantly fewer recombination events than in males.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalThe Plant Cell·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
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.

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

A new electrolyte points to stronger, safer batteries

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new gel electrolyte that overcomes challenges in anode-free lithium batteries by selectively repelling lithium salts. This design enables the formation of an efficient protective layer on the lithium surface, improving battery life and thermal stability.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJoule·DateFeb 19, 2026

Brain organoids can be trained to solve a goal-directed task

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz successfully train brain organoids to balance a virtual pole, demonstrating adaptive learning capabilities. This breakthrough has implications for understanding neurological conditions and developing new tools for studying brain function.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalCell Reports·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.

Transplantation and employment earnings in kidney transplant recipients

A cohort study of 3,230 kidney transplant recipients found that transplantation reverses declining employment income, enabling meaningful economic recovery. The findings highlight the socioeconomic value of transplantation and inform policies to support patients during pretransplant vulnerability.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 19, 2026

Mitochondria and aging: A central axis in Parkinson’s disease pathogenesis

Mitochondrial dysfunction acts as a pathogenic hub linking genetic mutations, environmental toxins, and age-related decline. Aging exacerbates these defects, leading to neuronal loss and progressive disease progression. The review highlights therapeutic opportunities targeting mitochondrial quality control and neuroinflammatory signaling.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·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.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateFeb 19, 2026

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
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.

Environment: Atmospheric pollution directly linked to rocket re-entry

A study detected a sudden increase in lithium atoms in the lower thermosphere, attributing it to the uncontrolled re-entry of a Falcon 9 rocket stage. The researchers used lidar technology to measure the concentration of lithium atoms and found that natural atmospheric processes were highly unlikely to be the source.

SourceSpringer Nature·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateFeb 19, 2026

Same-day hospital discharge is safe in selected patients after TAVI

A study published at the EAPCI Summit 2026 found that around one-fifth of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) can be safely discharged on the same day. The study included 790 patients who underwent elective TAVI between June 2018 and December 2024, and showed similar clinical outcomes in those who were su...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·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.

SourceEuropean Society of Endocrinology·DateFeb 19, 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.

Scientists map brain's blood pressure control center

A group of nerve cells in the brainstem has been identified as a stabilizing system for blood pressure, preventing fluctuations between daily activities. The study suggests that loss or dysfunction of these cells can lead to unstable blood pressure and is associated with conditions such as multiple system atrophy.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalCirculation Research·DateFeb 19, 2026

Smaller fish and changing food webs – even where species numbers stay the same

A global study of nearly 15,000 marine and freshwater fish communities found consistent shifts in species composition, body size and feeding relationships over recent decades. Smaller-bodied fish species dominate ecosystems, reshaping food webs and ecosystem function.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 19, 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.

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

Emotional memory region of aged brain is sensitive to processed foods

A new study suggests that a lack of fiber in the diet may impair emotional memory in older adults, linked to cognitive problems and inflammation. The amygdala, responsible for processing fearful experiences, is sensitive to highly processed diets, regardless of fat or sugar content.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental 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

Food insecurity impacts employees’ productivity

A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that food insecurity negatively affects employees' anxiety, work engagement, and task performance. Employers can improve job outcomes by offering free or discounted food through various programs.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 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.

‘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

DEGU debuts with better AI predictions and explanations

Researchers have developed DEGU, a tool that improves the accuracy and efficiency of deep neural networks in predicting genomic experiment results. DEGU reduces the size of models while maintaining predictive capabilities, making it easier to understand uncertainty and drive reliable discoveries.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·DateFeb 19, 2026

‘Giant superatoms’ unlock a new toolbox for quantum computers

Giant superatoms combine two quantum-mechanical constructs to suppress decoherence and create entanglement, opening opportunities for scalable and reliable quantum systems. This breakthrough enables quantum information to be protected, controlled, and distributed in new ways.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 19, 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.

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

Cannabis: What is the profile of adults at low risk of dependence?

A new study identifies profiles of adults at low risk of cannabis use disorder, emphasizing the importance of socio-demographic and lifestyle factors. The research highlights that lower-risk users resemble non-users more than higher-risk users, with distinct characteristics including female sex, education level, and mental health.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Cannabis Research·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

Second pregnancy uniquely alters the female brain

Researchers at Amsterdam UMC found that a second pregnancy changes the female brain in unique ways, altering brain networks involved in attention and sensory cues. The study also linked structural brain changes to maternal mental health, providing new insights into postpartum depression.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 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.

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

Nanodevice produces continuous electricity from evaporation

Researchers at EPFL have developed a hydrovoltaic system that harnesses the natural effect of heat and light to control ion movement and electron flow in evaporating saltwater, producing stable and continuous electricity. The nanodevice's decoupled design allows for fine-tuning of each step in the process.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026