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Science News Archive February 2026 - Page 16


Page 16 of 45

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

Public and patient involvement in research is a balancing act of power

A study at the University of Eastern Finland found that power relations between researchers and patients vary depending on context. Researchers experience three tensions: tokenistic involvement vs. co-creation, institutional structures vs. everyday work, and conflict vs. reflexivity. The study highlights the importance of recognizing p...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalHealth Expectations·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.

Australian sea lion pups do as their mothers do

Research shows Australian sea lion pups can learn foraging behaviour from their mothers, a discovery that could aid conservation efforts. The pups adapt to their mother's foraging style, changing their feeding patterns and habitats.

SourceAdelaide University·DateFeb 18, 2026

How the brain balances continuity and segmentation

A new study led by Dr. Shira Baror and Dr. Aya Ben-Yakov found that the brain's sense of continuity and segmentation are shaped by context in distinct ways. The researchers used three large-scale experiments involving 816 participants to investigate this fundamental question.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

DGIST identifies “magic blueprint” for converting carbon dioxide into resources through atom-level catalyst design

A research team has identified a principle for designing atomic-level interactions in catalysts to selectively produce desired products from carbon dioxide conversion. The discovery could lead to more efficient solar-driven carbon utilization technologies, addressing the climate crisis.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateFeb 18, 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.

Aussie desert plant packs a protein punch

A study by RMIT University found that an Australian desert plant, Old Man Saltbush, has nearly ideal amino acid requirements for human nutrition, making it a potential high-quality plant-derived protein option. The plant was also rich in minerals and improved the nutritional value of wheat pasta when added to it.

SourceRMIT University·JournalFood and Bioprocess Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Chronic shortage of family doctors in England, reveals BMJ analysis

Despite efforts by the government to increase GP numbers, England is facing a severe doctor drought, with patient demand far outstripping GP capacity. The British Medical Association and Royal College of GPs warn of a 'troubling picture' of general practice under growing strain.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeNews article·DateFeb 18, 2026

Screening increases survival rate for stage IV breast cancer by 60%

Women with stage IV breast cancer detected through screening have a 60% chance of survival ten years after diagnosis, compared to under 20% without screening. Screening may not be too late to treat successfully, even at the most serious stage of the disease.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 18, 2026

COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy may help prevent preeclampsia

A multinational study found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of preeclampsia. The study suggests that maternal vaccination may influence pathways involved in preeclampsia development, potentially offering protection even in the absence of COVID-19 infection.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateFeb 18, 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.

Booster jabs reduce the risks of COVID-19 deaths, study finds

A new study of over 3 million adults found that booster vaccines reduced the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization and death. The effectiveness was similar for Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech booster vaccines, but protection declined over time.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalVaccine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 18, 2026

Menopausal hormone therapy not linked to increased risk of death

A large Danish study found that menopausal hormone therapy is not associated with an increased risk of death in women with moderate to severe symptoms and no contraindications. The study also showed a significant survival benefit for women who had undergone bilateral oophorectomy after using hormone therapy.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 18, 2026

New Zealand discovery offers hope for lymphoedema

A newly discovered cellular mechanism has shown promise in treating painful lymphoedema. Researchers from the University of Auckland found that insulin-like growth factor signaling regulates zebrafish lymphatic-vessel development.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

New study warns emerging pollutants in livestock and aquaculture waste may threaten ecosystems and public health

A new scientific review highlights a growing environmental challenge linked to modern food production, where waste from livestock and aquaculture operations contains complex mix of emerging contaminants. These pollutants can spread through ecosystems and ultimately affect human health.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 18, 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 prove shellfish can be farmed far from shore

Researchers successfully farmed Atlantic surfclams offshore in the open ocean, finding faster growth and higher survival rates than those farmed near shore. The study opens new doors for offshore aquaculture in New Jersey, promising a sustainable way to grow more seafood while supporting local jobs.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNorth American Journal of Aquaculture·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Integrated rice–aquatic farming systems may hold the key to smarter nitrogen use and lower agricultural emissions

Rice–aquatic animal co-culture systems can increase nitrogen-use efficiency by 20-40% while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fertilizer requirements. The key to their effectiveness lies in the dynamic interactions between rice roots, aquatic animals, and microorganisms at the soil-water interface.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 18, 2026

Medicaid disenrollment spikes at age 19, study finds

A study found that 13.4% of young adults with complex medical conditions were disenrolled from Medicaid at age 19, compared to 35.6% without such conditions. The study highlights the significant impact of coverage disruptions on health outcomes for medically complex patients.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 18, 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.

Mirror image pheromones help beetles swipe right

Researchers have discovered that the Japanese scarab beetle uses mirror-image pheromones to distinguish between potential mates. The discovery could lead to improved monitoring and control methods for this invasive species.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Reclaiming harsh habitats with black soldier fly larvae

Researchers from Texas A&M University are using black soldier fly larvae to recycle organic waste and produce protein fertilizer. The project aims to create autonomous systems for rehabilitating extreme environments, reducing human exposure to hazardous conditions.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateFeb 18, 2026

New Rice-led perspective charts path to next-generation water and energy membranes

Researchers are making breakthroughs in understanding how water and ions move through membranes at the molecular level. By combining molecular simulations, nanofluidics and advanced experimental tools, scientists can design membranes with unprecedented efficiency and selectivity for clean water, sustainable chemistry and renewable energy.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Water·DateFeb 18, 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.

Study finds lack of Angptl4 gene triggers long-term protection against inflammatory bowel disease by reprogramming the immune system

Researchers found that mice without the ANGPTL4 gene were protected from intestinal inflammation and colon tumors due to altered macrophage behavior. The study suggests that early-life inflammatory events can shape long-term immune programming, providing resistance to future challenges.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

New research forecasts the impacts of fire on birds

Up to 30% of bird diversity hotspots in the western US face threats from high-severity wildfires, which could eliminate critical forest habitats. However, up to 58% of hotspots are predicted to experience low-severity fires, creating potential refuges for forest-dependent species.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 18, 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.

Global scientific paper establishes first consensus definition of gut health

A global group of scientists and clinicians has established the first consensus definition of gut health, encompassing both physiological function and individual symptoms. The new framework provides a basis for measuring and improving gut health, with applications for researchers and clinical management of digestive health.

SourceInternational Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics·JournalNature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 18, 2026

Hope for global banana farming in genetic discovery

Researchers have discovered a genetic region controlling resistance to Fusarium wilt Sub Tropical Race 4 (STR4) in a wild banana subspecies called Calcutta 4. This finding holds promise for developing sustainable and disease-resistant commercial banana varieties.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalHorticulture Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Prenatal lead exposure related to worse cognitive function in adults

A study published in Neurology found an association between prenatal lead exposure and lower performance on tests of thinking and memory skills in female participants, even decades later. The study analyzed baby teeth for lead levels and tested cognitive function, revealing a strong link between lead exposure and cognitive decline.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 18, 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.

Scientists find a mechanism for how exercise protects the brain

Scientists have discovered a mechanism that explains how exercise improves cognition by shoring up the brain's protective barrier. The study found that an exercise-induced liver protein strengthens the blood-brain barrier, reducing inflammation and cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateFeb 18, 2026

Aggie fixture elected to National Academy of Engineering

Dr. Blasingame's contributions to developing rate-transient tools for diagnosing and predicting hydrocarbon production are recognized by the NAE. He is the second academia-to-industry transition president of SPE and has received various honors from the organization.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateFeb 18, 2026

AI benefits from measured non-linearity

Researchers found that dosed nonlinearity improves model performance in various tasks, especially with limited data. Nonlinear units function like flexible switches, adapting linear processing modes based on context.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

National analysis maps hospital vulnerability to flood-driven traffic disruptions

A German nationwide study uses a new simulation approach to map hospital vulnerability to flood-driven traffic disruptions. 75 hospitals across Germany are identified at risk of patient surges beyond their regular capacity due to an increase in demand by more than 30 percent.

SourceGFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 18, 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.

Major advance in dry-electrode EV batteries

Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new dry-processed electrode architecture that improves battery performance, reduces cost, and has environmental benefits. The dry process eliminates toxic solvents and creates a more robust battery with better conductivity.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 18, 2026

Living ‘mini brains’ meet next-generation bioelectronics

Researchers have developed a new device that can record and stimulate activity across the entire surface of miniature, lab-grown human brain-like tissues, enabling whole-network mapping and manipulation. This breakthrough could improve our understanding of brain development, function, and disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Enjoyment, not time, drives how people judge goal progress

A study by Cornell University found that people prioritize enjoyment over time when evaluating their progress toward goals in fitness, education, and careers. In one study, participants who enjoyed a workout reported making more progress despite taking less time than those who didn't enjoy the activity.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateFeb 18, 2026

Understanding the rising suicide risk among Black youth

A new study sheds light on the complex factors driving rising suicide rates among Black youth, identifying protective factors such as anxiety and religiosity that may help mitigate this risk. Timely assessment and follow-up after deliberate self-harm are also crucial in decreasing suicide risk.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 18, 2026

Want entrepreneurs to work harder? Tell them they’ll fail

A new study reveals that being informed of potential failure can significantly motivate entrepreneurs to work harder and commit more deeply to their business ventures. Researchers found that those who recalled being told they would fail displayed a deeper commitment to persisting with their businesses.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 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.

Mindfulness practices found to significantly reduce depression symptoms, especially for those with early-life adversity

A new study found that mindfulness practices can significantly reduce depression symptoms in people who have experienced early-life adversity. The study, led by Eric Loucks, found that participants in the Mindfulness-Based Blood Pressure Reduction Program showed significant improvements in depression symptoms compared to those in an en...

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateFeb 18, 2026

Complexity key to preventing infection after heart surgery

Researchers from Duke University found that uniform materials without complexity are the culprit behind deadly infections after heart surgery. Bioengineered grafts with decellularized tissue can greatly reduce complications. The study suggests designing new solutions similar to vascular tissue in interior complexity.

SourceDuke University·JournalBiomedical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Widening beaches make California 500 acres bigger than it was 40 years ago

Researchers found that Southern California beaches experienced a significant widening of 10% between 1984 and 2024, while Northern California showed moderate growth, and Central California showed no significant trend. Beach growth was concentrated at human-made coastal structures.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 18, 2026
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Decoding developing brain rhythms with scalable human neuron networks

Researchers created a simplified, scalable human cell model to study coordinated brain rhythms. They found that inhibitory signaling mediated by GABA helped promote sleep and prevent seizures, while potassium channel perturbations influenced rhythmic organization in distinct ways.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Seaweed farms: dynamic blue carbon systems

Researchers discover that seaweed farms drive a climate-friendly feedback by producing alkalinity, which shifts the chemistry of the water and removes CO2. The process is more permanent than previously thought, making seaweed farms an ideal system for carbon sequestration.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 18, 2026

Research alert: Understanding substance use across the full spectrum of sexual identity

A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry reveals higher rates of substance use among all non-heterosexual groups in the US, including those uncertain of their identity. The analysis highlights the importance of recognizing a broader range of sexual identities in public health research and clinical practice.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 18, 2026

Tin isotopes reveal clues to nuclear stability

Experiments with tin isotopes rich in neutrons provide key physics insights into nuclear stability and element formation. The results help theoretical physicists improve models and establish the doubly-magic nature of tin-132.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 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.

Fiber batteries promise ‘smart clothing’ but two obstacles stand in the way

Researchers at NC State University have identified two key challenges to overcome before fiber batteries can be used in smart clothing. Poor encapsulation methods struggle to keep oxygen and moisture out, while mathematical models fail to accurately predict the effects of different device variables.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSmall·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 18, 2026

Power generation increased by up to 70 per cent when wind turbines were combined with tidal/wave installations

Researchers from the University of Surrey found that combining wind turbines with wave, solar, and tidal devices on shared platforms generates more reliable power and reduces construction costs. The study identified hybrid offshore renewable energy harvest systems as crucial for meeting ambitious climate targets.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy Conversion and Management·DateFeb 18, 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.

Robust frozen dynamics observed on a quantum system

Duke University researchers have observed statistical localization in a neutral-atom platform, where most configurations of quantum bits remain effectively frozen. This phenomenon has implications for robustly storing information in a quantum system and could be a powerful feature of quantum mechanics.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026