Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2026 - Page 42


Page 42 of 45

A CNIO study completely eliminates pancreatic tumors in mice without resistance developing

A study published in PNAS successfully eliminated pancreatic tumours in mice completely and durably, with no significant side effects. The treatment, combining three molecular targets, induced robust regression of experimental PDACs without causing tumor resistance.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

Scientists characterize heating process in a driven quantum system

Researchers studied a 78-qubit superconducting quantum processor subjected to random multipolar driving. The system exhibited a long-lived prethermal regime before rapid heating, with the plateau's lifetime depending on driving frequency. Entanglement spread across the system, violating classical simulation methods.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateFeb 3, 2026

Programmable Lego-like material emulates life’s flexibility

Researchers at Duke University have created a programmable Lego-like material that can change its stiffness and damping in response to temperature changes. The material, made from gallium and iron, can be programmed to mimic various commercially available soft materials.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

Big Earth Data researchers set a new global standard for earth data grids

A new axis-based data model resolves long-standing issues in Earth data grids, enabling more accurate, flexible, and interoperable data across science, policy, and industry. The framework clarifies grid structure, coordinate handling, and value interpretation, allowing for efficient querying of massive multidimensional datasets.

SourceBig Earth Data·JournalBig Earth Data·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2026

Security analysis of blockchain-based cryptocurrency

Researchers investigate real-world blockchain security incidents to extract representative attack patterns and categorize them into six classes based on standard blockchain architecture layers. The study also evaluates current detection and defense strategies, highlighting their strengths and limitations.

SourceELSP·JournalBlockchain·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 3, 2026

UCLA researchers develop mineral sunscreen that reduces white cast

Researchers at UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center developed a new zinc oxide formulation that significantly reduces the white, chalky cast associated with traditional mineral sunscreens. The tetrapod-shaped particles provide strong protection against UV radiation while staying evenly distributed in the sunscreen.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalACS Materials Letters·DateFeb 3, 2026

Marine pollutants disrupt cellular energy production in seabirds

Research found that widespread contaminants like mercury and certain PFAS compounds affect the function of mitochondria in wild seabirds, potentially undermining fitness. The study measured pollutant levels and mitochondrial function in Scopoli's shearwaters and connected diet to exposure through stable isotopes.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence·JournalEnvironment & Health·DateFeb 3, 2026

Your future home might be framed with printed plastic

MIT engineers have designed a 3D-printed floor truss system made from recycled plastic, which exceeds building standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The printed flooring can hold over 4,000 pounds and weighs about 13 pounds per truss, making it a lighter alternative to traditional wood-based trusses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 3, 2026

New predictive model to identify complications in the first 2 days following mild or moderate traumatic brain injury

A clinical prediction model called the Goliat score can estimate the risk of acute complications in patients with minor and moderate traumatic brain injuries. The model, developed by researchers at UOC and IRBLleida, uses easily accessible variables to predict neurological or cardiorespiratory complications and mortality within 48 hours.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalBMC Emergency Medicine·TypeCase study·DateFeb 3, 2026

Fish face smaller meals due to warmer seas and fishing

Researchers found that warmer waters and commercial fishing lead to smaller meals for predators, resulting in reduced energy intake. This can weaken predators and make marine ecosystems more fragile. The study suggests managing climate change and fisheries together is essential to protect marine food webs.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2026

Role of OXCT1 in colorectal cancer liver metastasis

Researchers found OXCT1 to be a key regulator of colorectal cancer liver metastasis, with low expression linked to increased metastasis. OXCT1 suppression promotes oncogenic signaling through the CDK8/beta-catenin complex, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateFeb 3, 2026

The possible applications of olive pomace: a study reveals the most sustainable option

A study by the University of Córdoba reveals that olive pomace oil extraction is the most sustainable alternative for managing olive oil industry byproducts. The methodology considers economic, environmental, and social indicators, concluding that this option is economically attractive while also offering significant environmental bene...

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalBusiness Strategy and the Environment·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 3, 2026

‘Masculinity crisis’: Influencers on social media promote low testosterone to young men, study finds

A new study found that social media influencers are promoting unproven claims about low testosterone in young men, framing common experiences as hormonal deficiencies. The content is linked to the manosphere, encouraging hyper-masculine ideals and positioning testosterone as a way for men to reclaim power and status.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 3, 2026

Validation of SOFA-2 score in sepsis and exploration of its extension with additional immune markers

The study validates the use of SOFA-2 in sepsis care and research, demonstrating its ability to identify clinically meaningful organ dysfunction. The findings suggest that incorporating immune markers may not improve predictive performance, highlighting the biological complexity of sepsis.

SourceJournal of Intensive Medicine·JournalJournal of Intensive Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2026

Accurately predicting Arctic sea ice in real time

Researchers from the US and UK have created a method to predict September Arctic sea ice extent with high accuracy, improving monitoring of sea ice health and its impact on global climate. The model captures effects from subseasonal to seasonal timescales and outperforms other models.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChaos An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science·DateFeb 3, 2026

Probiotics for plants

Research reveals that probiotics can enhance root development and nitrogen uptake in plants, improving growth without excess fertilizer use. The Sphingopyxis genus supports plant function, offering a potential solution to reduce environmental impact of agriculture.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

Internationally renowned clinical geneticist Dr. John C. Carey to receive the 2026 David L. Rimoin Lifetime Achievement Award from the ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine

Dr. John C. Carey, a globally respected clinical geneticist and educator, will receive the 2026 David L. Rimoin Lifetime Achievement Award for his career-defining contributions to medical genetics. He has authored over 400 peer-reviewed articles and co-authored widely used textbooks.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateFeb 3, 2026

A hearing test for the world’s rarest sea turtle

Researchers evaluated the hearing sensitivity of Kemp's ridley sea turtles, finding they are most sensitive to low-frequency sounds produced by ships and machinery. This understanding will inform efforts to monitor and mitigate noise impacts on these endangered species.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateFeb 3, 2026

Risk of cardiorespiratory events following RSV–related hospitalization

A recent study found that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) hospitalizations are associated with a higher risk of cardiorespiratory events, with some conditions experiencing elevated risks up to 180 days after admission. The findings highlight the importance of increasing RSV immunization in adults to mitigate this risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 3, 2026

Shared purpose outperforms specialization, new study shows

A new study published in the Strategic Management Journal challenges long-standing assumptions about managerial specialization by examining when organizations perform better with shared purpose. The findings reveal that a common purpose advantage emerges when managers share practices and operate in stable or moderately turbulent enviro...

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateFeb 3, 2026

Emphasizing the strengths of people with depression helps those affected

A long-term study with over 700 participants shows that focusing on the strength of people with depression increases their self-confidence and enables them to better achieve personal goals. Reflecting on their strengths also leads to improved progress towards set goals.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateFeb 3, 2026

How early pregnancy impacts aging: Implications for breast-cancer risk

Researchers found that early pregnancy reduces the buildup of abnormal cells in breast tissue, which can lead to breast cancer. Pregnancy prevents these 'confused' cells from accumulating and triggers a 'cellular reset button,' maintaining tissue lineage integrity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

Thousands of alien species could invade the Arctic

Researchers have catalogued 2554 non-native plant species that may pose a threat to Arctic biodiversity. The study used data from over 51 million occurrences of these species to create a map highlighting hotspot areas in the region.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNeoBiota·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2026

Overcoming the stability-dynamics trade-off in polymers

A team from Donghua University has developed a new molecular design that improves the performance of photothermally healable elastomers. The resulting material, PIB5Cu, achieves all-round upgrades in toughness, tensile strength, photothermal conversion efficiency and healing efficiency.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

New therapy could make life better for kidney transplant patients

A new study offers hope that kidney transplant patients may one day have a more effective treatment regimen. The Phase 2 pilot study showed improved kidney functioning in all patients who completed the study, with no patients experiencing rejection due to antibodies produced by the immune system.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateFeb 3, 2026

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation survey finds 93% of IBD community supports predictive testing and prevention strategies

A new survey by the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation found that 93% of people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or at risk for it would be interested in a test to predict their risk of developing IBD. Lifestyle interventions, such as diet and exercise, were preferred over pharmaceutical approaches.

SourceCrohn's & Colitis Foundation of America·JournalCrohn s & Colitis 360·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2026

Shrinking shellfish? FAU study uncovers acidic water risks in Indian River lagoon

A new FAU study uncovers the impact of acidic water on shell-building marine organisms, highlighting the need for strategies to mitigate coastal acidification. The research found that nutrient pollution, freshwater input, and other environmental factors contribute to reduced aragonite saturation.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

CT scans unwrap secrets of ancient Egyptian life

Two Egyptian priests, Nes-Min and Nes-Hor, were scanned using CT technology to reveal details about their lifespans, health, and life experiences. The scans showed healed injuries, dental issues, and modern-day ailments, providing new insights into ancient lives.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2026

Clinical data gaps keeping life-saving antibiotics from children

The lack of data on safety and dosage limits life-saving antibiotics from children in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. Only six out of 12 recommended antibiotics are licensed for children under 12, with standard doses often too low.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·DateFeb 3, 2026

For people with traumatic brain injury and their caregivers, recovery of basic communication is an “acceptable” outcome

A study by Mass General Brigham found that individuals with traumatic brain injury and their caregivers consider recovery of basic communication an 'acceptable' outcome, challenging traditional assumptions about what constitutes a 'favorable' recovery. The study highlights the need for person-centered approaches to TBI outcome research.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalCritical Care Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2026

A new thermoelectric material to convert waste heat to electricity

Researchers have discovered a new thermoelectric material, MoSi2, that can convert waste heat into electricity with high efficiency. The material's unique electronic structure and axis-dependent conduction polarity enable it to generate transverse thermopower, paving the way for efficient waste heat recovery systems.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

Oxygen-modified graphene filters boost natural gas purification

Researchers at Chiba University developed oxygen-functionalized graphene membranes that selectively separate carbon dioxide from methane while maintaining high permeability. The study demonstrates the potential of graphene-based filtration systems for next-generation gas purification, enabling cheaper and cleaner energy production.

SourceChiba University·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

Why aren’t more older adults getting flu or COVID-19 shots?

A recent poll found that 42% of people over 50 haven't gotten either flu or COVID-19 vaccines in the past six months. The leading reason for not getting vaccinated was a lack of perceived need, despite clear evidence showing vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness and death in older adults.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2026

Medical AI models need more context to prepare for the clinic

Researchers identify contextual errors as a major contributor to the gap between medical AI model performance on standardized test cases and real-world clinical applications. To address this, experts suggest incorporating contextual information into datasets, computational benchmarks, and model architecture.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2026

‘Celtic curse’ genetic disease hotspots revealed in UK and Ireland

A study mapping the genetic risk of haemochromatosis across the UK and Ireland identifies key regions, including Outer Hebrides, north-west Ireland, and mainland Scotland. Early detection and treatment can prevent liver damage, cancer, and arthritis associated with the condition.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 3, 2026

From leadership to influencers: New ASU study shows why we choose to follow others

Researchers from ASU found that status inequality in influence has been part of human societies since early times, with people gravitating towards skilled and successful individuals. This 'prestige' effect creates a snowball effect where popular leaders emerge quickly, shaping group decisions and driving imbalance.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 3, 2026

RCT demonstrates effectiveness of mylovia, a digital therapy for female sexual dysfunction

A randomized controlled trial demonstrates the effectiveness of mylovia, a digital therapy for female sexual dysfunction, showing significant improvements in sexual function and related symptoms. The study suggests that mylovia can provide women with a self-guided intervention to overcome sexual dysfunction and experience deeper pleasure.

SourceGAIA (Germany)·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2026

Study reveals two huge hot blobs of rock influence Earth’s magnetic field

Researchers have identified two immense, ultra-hot rock structures at the base of the mantle that affect the Earth's magnetic field. The study suggests strong temperature contrasts in the rocky mantle and stagnation of liquid iron in the core, shedding light on the dynamic evolution of the deep Earth.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 3, 2026