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Science News Archive February 2026 - Page 43


Page 43 of 45

Psilocybin shows context-dependent effects on social behavior and inflammation in female mice modeling anorexia

Researchers found that psilocybin reduced novelty-seeking in control mice, but heightened it in anorexia model mice. Inflammation levels were also altered, contradicting expectations based on human studies. The study's findings have implications for understanding anorexia nervosa and the potential therapeutic effects of psychedelics.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalPsychedelics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

New boron compounds pave the way for easier drug development

Researchers have developed stable boron-fluorine compounds that enable the modification of complex molecules without breaking down medicines. These new compounds make it possible to increase the effect or reduce side effects of drugs at a late stage, reducing waste and improving resource efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Unexpected partial recovery of natural vision observed after intracortical microstimulation in a blind patient

A blind patient partially recovered natural vision through electrical stimulation of the visual cortex, independent of the implant. The recovery was sustained over time and remained even after the device was removed, suggesting individual factors may have contributed to this outcome.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalBrain Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

From sea to soil: Molecular changes suggest how algae evolved into plants

Early marine algae like prasinophytes relied on Lhcp, a unique LHC complex with structural differences from plant LHCII. These similarities and differences may have enabled plants to transition from oceans to land, driven by the stabilization of trimer architecture through pigment-protein interactions.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2026

The environment shapes the organization of ant societies

Research reveals three major types of ant societies: small colonies with a single queen and diverse workers in tropical regions, large colonies with multiple queens and uniform workers in deserts, and temperate regions with polygynous and monomorphic colonies. Environmental conditions shape these social structures on a global scale.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 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.

Tiny mutation, big impact on schizophrenia treatment

A rare genetic mutation has been discovered that can explain why some people do not respond to newer schizophrenia treatments. The mutation, known as C182F, removes a structural bond in the TAAR1 receptor, blocking its binding site and rendering drugs ineffective.

SourceFlinders University·JournalGenomic Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Quantifying physical performance and identifying knee injury risk factors in rugby players

A longitudinal study has identified key physical performance indicators that contribute to severe knee injuries in rugby players. The analysis found associations between direct contact injuries and greater severity and burden, as well as a high limb symmetry index for hip internal rotation strength and hip extension strength.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalThe Journal of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine·DateFeb 2, 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.

Nucleus softens during herpesvirus infection

Researchers used advanced microscopy and computational modeling to discover why herpesvirus infection changes nuclear structures and biomechanical forces. The study found that DNA viruses infect cells and take over the host cell nucleus, leading to dramatic structural modifications and a softening of the nucleus.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Opioid system may flag poor acceptance of plant-based feed in farmed trout

Farmed trout fed plant-based diets exhibit lower growth rates and efficiency, but delayed brain opioid system changes occur later. The study found that opioid-related genes are affected after 8 months, suggesting a strong engagement of reward pathways under long-term nutritional pressure.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater Biology and Security·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Does artificial intelligence understand word impressions like humans do?

A team of researchers from The University of Osaka compared the way humans and machines think about words, finding some strong correlations but also significant discrepancies. Human ratings varied widely across words like prepositions and conjunctions, while LLMs tended to assign consistently low ratings.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalBehavior Research Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 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.

Biochar-enhanced living walls could help buildings save energy while using less water

A laboratory study found that adding biochar to living wall substrates improves thermal insulation while retaining moisture more efficiently. Biochar-amended mixes showed lower thermal conductivity and improved moisture retention, reducing irrigation demand and weight when fully saturated.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Hidden energy from motion may help power life on earth

Researchers propose a new framework called mechano biogeochemistry, suggesting that natural mechanical forces can be converted into electrical energy through the piezoelectric effect. This process allows microbes to grow and carry out chemical reactions even in the absence of sunlight or traditional chemical fuels.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 2, 2026

Bubble bots: Simple biocompatible microrobots autonomously target tumors

A Caltech-led team developed bubble bots that can autonomously target tumors using chemotactic behavior, reducing tumor weight by 60% in mice. The robots use a biocompatible protein shell and can be controlled using ultrasound imaging or magnetically responsive particles.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 2, 2026
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Nonlocal metasurfaces unlock efficient, steerable third‑harmonic light generation

Researchers have created a nonlinear metasurface that efficiently generates and steers visible light through controlled geometric phase. The device combines high-Q resonance enhancement with pixel-level control of the wavefront, enabling compact chip-based visible/UV sources and LiDAR beam steering.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournaleLight·DateFeb 2, 2026

HKUST pioneers computational models for transregional neural activity to re-establish damaged neural connectivity, offering new hope to patients

Researchers at HKUST have developed a novel reinforcement learning-based generative model to predict neural signals and create an artificial information pathway bypassing damaged brain areas. This breakthrough offers new possibilities for neural rehabilitation in patients with motor or cognitive impairments.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

New discovery reveals how a tiny cellular signal helps shape the human heart

Researchers at Adelaide University have uncovered a crucial new mechanism controlling heart development by regulating key growth signals. Neural crest cells fine-tune Wnt signalling to ensure proper heart formation, and disruptions lead to serious congenital heart defects.

SourceAdelaide University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Study shows strong evidence for effectiveness of metastasis-directed radiation therapy in prostate cancer

A meta-analysis of individual patients with oligometastatic prostate cancer shows that metastasis-directed radiation therapy (MDT) significantly improves patient outcomes, including delayed disease progression and better quality of life. The study included 574 men and found a median of 7.6 months before disease progression in the MDT a...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 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.

Cluster radioactivity in extreme laser fields: A theoretical exploration

Research investigates the influence of strong laser fields on nuclear decay lifetimes, altering nuclear structure and properties. This study provides valuable insights into laser-nucleus interactions and holds promise for applications in the nuclear energy sector.

SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2026

Study finds banning energy disconnections shouldn’t destabilise markets

A new study by RMIT University found that protections in place in Europe can help phase out harmful electricity disconnections without destabilizing power markets. The research highlights the need for evidence-led action to extend disconnection prohibitions and strengthen safeguards for vulnerable consumers.

SourceRMIT University·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 2, 2026

Novel approach to a key biofuel production step captures an elusive energy source

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a novel approach to recover native lignin structure in plants, enabling higher yields of valuable materials with lower energy inputs. This breakthrough advances biofuel production by providing a key component for conversion to other valuable products.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalChemical Engineering Journal Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 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.

NUS CDE researchers develop new AI approach that keeps long-term climate simulations stable and accurate

Researchers have developed a new AI-powered correction that addresses instability in hybrid climate models, allowing for reliable simulation of months or years-long processes. The CondensNet architecture learns from reference simulations to correct condensation errors, ensuring physically consistent results.

SourceNational University of Singapore College of Design and Engineering·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2026

Poverty intervention program in Bangladesh may reinforce gender gaps, study shows

A new study from the University of Illinois finds that a poverty intervention program in Bangladesh may reinforce gender gaps. The program, BRAC-TUP, provides families with livestock assets, technical training, and life-skills coaching, but its impact on education for girls is limited.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENT STUDIES·DateFeb 2, 2026

Researchers identify novel RNA linked to cancer patient survival

A recent study published in PNAS reveals a novel non-coding RNA molecule, CUL1-IPA, that regulates key cellular functions and supports the structural integrity of the nucleolus. The discovery suggests this molecule may influence patient survival in certain blood cancers.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 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.

‘Ghost’ providers hinder access to health care for Medicaid patients

A new study by OHSU-led researchers found that nearly one-third of physicians enrolled in Medicaid don't actually care for a single patient covered by Medicaid insurance. This 'ghost' phenomenon hinders access to healthcare, leading to delayed or foregone care and ultimately increasing costs.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2026

Banning lead in gas worked. The proof is in our hair

Researchers found a significant decrease in lead concentrations in hair samples from Utahns, spanning over 100 years. The study demonstrates the impact of environmental regulations on public health and highlights the importance of protecting against toxic metals like lead.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Optimizing robotic joints

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new design method for optimizing rolling contact joints in robots, which can lead to better grippers, assistive devices, and more efficient robotic movement. The optimized joints performed spectacularly, correcting misalignment by 99% in knee-assist devices.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 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.

New AI model can assist with early warning for coral bleaching risk

A new AI model can predict moderate heat stress on Florida reefs up to six weeks ahead of time. The model is accurate within one week and provides site-specific predictions, helping coral scientists and restoration practitioners with local reef management and emergency response planning.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2026

Aging brains pile up damaged proteins

Researchers at Stanford University discovered that aging brains struggle with protein disposal, leading to the accumulation of damaged proteins in synaptic connections. This finding sheds light on the mechanisms behind neurodegenerative diseases and may lead to new insights into human brain aging.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Air pollution causes social instability in ant colonies

Exposure to ozone levels found in affected areas alters the ants' odor signature, causing them to be attacked as if they were foreign intruders. The disruption of chemical communication between adult ants and larvae may also lead to neglect of brood care and larval death.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Highly selective asymmetric 1,6-addition of aliphatic Grignard reagents to α,β,γ,δ-unsaturated carbonyl compounds

Researchers achieve highly regio-, stereo-, and enantioselective 1,6-addition of aliphatic Grignard reagents to α,β,γ,δ-unsaturated carbonyl compounds using an iron catalyst with a chiral N-heterocyclic carbene ligand. The achievement offers new opportunities for drug discovery, materials chemistry, and fine-chemical synthesis.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Black and Latino teens show strong digital literacy

A study by UC Riverside found that Black and Latino teens are more adept at detecting online disinformation, particularly related to race and ethnicity. These teens are quicker to identify false claims and respond with corrective content, often driven by their lived experiences navigating online racism.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNew Media & Society·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2026

February 2026 issues of APA Journals Feature new research on neuroplasticity, cannabis and alcohol use interactions, trends in outpatient psychotherapy and more

The latest APA Journal issues explore the intersection of neuroplasticity and substance use, as well as emerging trends in outpatient psychotherapy. The American Psychiatric Association's flagship journals offer insightful research on mental health topics.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 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.

Why we sleep poorly in new environments: A brain circuit that keeps animals awake

Scientists at Nagoya University identified a brain circuit that keeps mice awake in unfamiliar environments, releasing neurotensin to maintain wakefulness and protect against potential dangers. This discovery may explain the 'first night effect' in humans, where the brain remains vigilant on the first night in a new place.

SourceNagoya University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

The smell of fear influences horse behavior

Research found that horses exhibit fearful behavior when exposed to human fear odors, adopting the emotional state of fear. This suggests a mechanism of emotional contagion through chemical cues between humans and horses.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalPLOS One·DateFeb 2, 2026

Bigger is not always better: Smaller leaves optimize light use in soybeans

Researchers found that narrower soybean leaves can improve how efficiently plants use available light. By altering leaf shape through a single gene, they reduced total leaf area by 13% without affecting yield, resulting in more efficient sunlight conversion into seed.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2026

An open source breakthrough in hemodynamics

Researchers have developed an open-source pressure myography tool, HemoLens, which reduces the cost of vascular research to $750 from $40,000. The tool uses affordable manufacturing processes and customizable components, making it easier for researchers to study vascular function.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 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.

Climate-related depressive symptoms may be alleviated through action and hope – hope in society’s capacity to act also plays a part

Individuals who combine climate worry with actions such as volunteering, following a plant-based diet, or avoiding air travel experience fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms. Climate hope in society's ability to mitigate climate change also correlates with reduced mental health issues.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateFeb 2, 2026

How experiences in the womb affect alcohol drinking in adulthood

A study found that prenatal alcohol exposure changed aspects of the dopamine system in rhesus monkeys, influencing how quickly they drank alcohol in adulthood. The researchers also discovered individualized neuroadaptive responses to drinking, which may promote the transition to alcohol use disorder.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·DateFeb 2, 2026

Improving nursing support for fertility preservation in women with cancer

A new questionnaire-based scale assesses nursing practices supporting fertility preservation decisions in women with cancer. The study highlights three essential dimensions of nursing practice: professional decision-support, communication facilitation, and system-based collaboration.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalAsia-Pacific Journal of Oncology Nursing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2026

Why some broken bones fail to heal: scientists reveal a critical molecular trigger

Researchers discovered that Apex1 plays a crucial role in initiating and progressing bone healing after injury. The protein is required for activating the master regulatory gene Bmp2, which initiates healing by stimulating periosteal expansion and callus formation.

SourceEditorial Office of West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University·JournalBone Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Eduardo Miranda awarded 2026 Bruce Bolt Medal

Eduardo Miranda, a Stanford University professor, has been recognized for his pioneering work in developing new ground motion models and intensity measures. His research has significantly shaped seismic design provisions and emphasized the use of strong-motion data in both research and teaching.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateFeb 2, 2026

Lab-grown algae removes microplastics from water

Researchers have developed special algae that can remove and reuse harmful microplastics from wastewater, cleaning the water as it grows. The engineered algae produces a volatile natural oil called limonene, making it water-repellent and attracting microplastics, which can then be collected and reused to create bioplastic products.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 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.