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Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for October 19, 2023:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

A Hebbian memory that achieves human-like results on sequential processing tasks

International team develops novel DNA nano engine

Electrical control of quantum phenomenon could improve future electronic devices

Scientists propose super-bright light sources powered by quasiparticles

From square to cube: Hardware processing for AI goes 3D, boosting processing power

Cataclysmic variable Swift J0503.7-2819 investigated by researchers

Solving a malaria mystery: Vessel congestion may drive brain swelling in children with cerebral malaria

Prostate-specific antigen failure risk factors in nonmetastatic unfavorable-risk prostate cancer

Large language models prove helpful in peer-review process

Astronomers comb telescope archive and find microsecond-duration burst

Physical theory improves protein folding prediction

Scientists develop innovative magnetic gel that heals diabetic wounds three times faster

Protein-like polymers illuminate the path to macular degeneration treatment

Imprinted genes in the 'parenting hub' of the brain determine if mice are good parents, new study finds

Breakthrough in treatment for world's leading cause of kidney failure in children

Nanotechnology news

	International team develops novel DNA nano engine An international team of scientists has recently developed a novel type of nano engine made of DNA. It is driven by a clever mechanism and can perform pulsing movements. The researchers are now planning to fit it with a coupling and install it as a drive in complex nano machines. Their results have been published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.
	Protein-like polymers illuminate the path to macular degeneration treatment In the latest stride toward combating neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), a team led by Professor Nathan Gianneschi from the International Institute for Nanotechnology at Northwestern University has unveiled a novel approach that could transform patients' lives worldwide.
	mRNA delivered by extracellular vesicles induces immunotherapy response in glioblastoma A team of researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has developed a new method for using extracellular vesicles to enhance responses to immunotherapy in glioblastoma, potentially opening the door for wider use of engineered messenger RNA (mRNA) for cancer therapy. The study was published today in Nature Communications.
	New noble-metal-free electrocatalyst decreases the energy required to generate hydrogen gas from water As a combustible fuel, the burning of hydrogen gas does not contribute to global warming. Today, the majority of hydrogen gas is generated from fossil fuels, however, and this process releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Generating hydrogen gas from clean sources, such as the splitting of water molecules with electricity through electrolysis, is important to achieving future carbon neutrality, but current methods are inefficient and limit the commercial practicality of hydrogen-based technologies.
	Self-powered flexible multicolor electrochromic devices for information displays In recent years, self-powered electrochromic (EC) devices have shown significant potential in various fields such as optoelectronics, sensors, and security systems. These self-powered EC systems, capable of reversible color switching without external power sources, have garnered considerable interest for next-generation electronic devices.
	Enzyodynamic therapy at nanoscale Enzyodynamic therapy (EDT) is a new type of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related dynamic therapeutic modality, which adequately utilizes the enzyme-triggered catalytic reactions in living organisms and achieves disease treatment through controlling the generation or elimination of ROS. ROS refers to a highly active chemical substance containing oxygen free radicals in the body or natural environment. ROS at physiological concentration is beneficial for the development of living organisms.

Physics news

	Electrical control of quantum phenomenon could improve future electronic devices A new electrical method to conveniently change the direction of electron flow in some quantum materials could have implications for the development of next-generation electronic devices and quantum computers.
	Scientists propose super-bright light sources powered by quasiparticles An international team of scientists is rethinking the basic principles of radiation physics with the aim of creating super-bright light sources. In a new study published in Nature Photonics, researchers from the Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) in Portugal, the University of Rochester, the University of California, Los Angeles, and Laboratoire d'Optique Appliquée in France proposed ways to use quasiparticles to create light sources as powerful as the most advanced ones in existence today, but much smaller.
	Miniature magnetic resonance imager made of diamond The development of tumors begins with miniscule changes within the body's cells; ion diffusion at the smallest scales is decisive in the performance of batteries. Until now, the resolution of conventional imaging methods has not been high enough to represent these processes in detail. A research team lead by the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has developed diamond quantum sensors which can be used to improve resolution in magnetic imaging.
	Manipulating collective motions of electrons and solvent molecules in a polar liquid Researchers at the Max-Born-Institute have now mapped the linear and nonlinear optical polaron response using ultrafast two-dimensional spectroscopy in the THz frequency range. As they discuss in the current issue of Physical Review Letters, multi-photon ionization of isopropanol molecules by a femtosecond pulse in the near-infrared generates free electrons and the resulting changes of the dielectric properties of the liquid are probed and/or manipulated in the THz frequency range.
	X-ray lasers: Why does brighter mean darker? When we illuminate something, we usually expect that the brighter the source we use, the brighter the resulting image will be. This rule also works for ultra-short pulses of laser light—but only up to a certain intensity. The answer to the question why an X-ray diffraction image 'darkens' at very high X-ray intensities not only deepens fundamental understanding of the light-matter interaction, but also offers a unique perspective for the production of laser pulses that have significantly shorter pulse duration than those currently available.
	Exploring optical properties of hollow cirrus clouds for enhanced lidar data interpretation Researchers led by Prof. Wang Zhenzhu from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and their collaborators have explored the optical properties of hollow cirrus clouds for enhanced lidar data interpretation, with a focus on hollow column ice crystal particles. Their study was published in Optics Express on Oct. 5.
	Quantum computers in 2023: How they work, what they do, and where they're heading In June, an IBM computing executive claimed quantum computers were entering the "utility" phase, in which high-tech experimental devices become useful. In September, Australia's Chief Scientist Cathy Foley went so far as to declare "the dawn of the quantum era".
	Chaos Raman distributed optical fiber sensing The timeliness and accuracy of detection technology is directly related to the safety of people's lives and property. In the application of this technology, temperature is a physical quantity that must to be focused on. Compared with other temperature measurement technologies, Raman distributed optical fiber sensors have the advantages of corrosion resistance, strong resistance to electromagnetic interference, small size of the system, low maintenance and cost, so they are widely used in pipeline leakage detection, high rock cable overload detection, warehouse fire detection and other situations.

Earth news

	Atlantic hurricanes now twice as likely to strengthen from weak to major intensity in 24 hours, researchers suggest Atlantic hurricanes may now be more than twice as likely to strengthen from a weak Category 1 hurricane to a major Category 3 or stronger hurricane in a 24-hour period than they were between 1970 and 1990, suggests a paper published in Scientific Reports. The paper also suggests that hurricanes are now more likely to strengthen more rapidly along the east coast of the U.S. than they were between 1970 and 1990.
	Urgent action needed to address climate change threats to coastal areas Global coastal adaptations are "incremental in scale," short-sighted and inadequate to address the root causes of vulnerability to climate change, according to an international team of researchers.
	El Niño's changing patterns: Human influence on natural variability Two recent scientific studies led by Dr. Paul Wilcox from the Department of Geology at the University of Innsbruck provide new insights into Earth's climate dynamics, with a particular focus on the El Niño phenomenon. The results show how El Niño responds to natural factors over extended periods, while highlighting the increasing role of human activities in shaping this climatic phenomenon in the modern era.
	Rebates can offer solutions to California's groundwater woes, say scientists Many aquifers in California and around the world are being drained of their groundwater because of the combined impacts of excess pumping, shifts in land use, and climate change. However, a new study by scientists at UC Santa Cruz and UC Berkeley, published on Oct. 18 in Nature Water, may offer a solution.
	Research shows biodegradable plastics are still harmful to fish Biodegradable plastics may not be the solution to plastic pollution many hoped for, with a University of Otago study showing they are still harmful to fish.
	Retreating glaciers reveal new pastures for conservationists Water surged through a desolate canyon of gray rock into a blue-gray lake, an ancient landscape only revealed to humanity in recent decades because France's glaciers have retreated so far.
	Human actions are causing global nutrient shifts, finds study In a study released on August 24, 2023, in the journal Eco-Environment & Health, the Global Ecology Unit CREAF‐CSIC‐UAB delved into the profound health implications of changing N:P ratios. This comprehensive analysis spanned across non-infectious to infectious diseases, unraveling their intricate ties to these nutrient imbalances and revealed the deep influence of global fertilizer disparities on human growth patterns.
	Geotechnical centrifuge modeling for simulating long-term radionuclide migration in large-scale fractured rocks Deep geological disposal is a globally recognized and safe method for long-term management of high-level radioactive waste (HLW). However, over extended periods of nuclear waste storage, there is the potential for the waste canister to experience leaks due to corrosion or alterations in the geological environment. This could lead to the eventual release of radionuclides into the surrounding fractured rock, posing a risk of migration into the biosphere.
	Flood warnings for Africa advance with EU expertise Satellites and on-the-ground sensors are helping Kenya, Ghana and Zambia tackle inundation risks and farmers cope with drought.
	Federal forecasters predict warm, wet US winter but less snow because of El Nino, climate change The upcoming United States winter looks likely to be a bit low on snow and extreme cold outbreaks, with federal forecasters predicting the North to get warmer than normal and the South wetter and stormier.
	Waves of change: How sea-levels and climate altered the marine ecosystems at the South Pole 390–385 million years ago During the Early-Middle Devonian period, a large landmass called Gondwana—which included parts of today's Africa, South America, and Antarctica—was located near the South Pole. Unlike today's icy conditions, the climate was warmer, and the sea levels were higher, flooding most of the land.
	Study documents new extremes in stratospheric water vapor A University of Oklahoma-led article published in Geophysical Research Letters highlights newly measured extremes recorded during the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Dynamics and Chemistry of the Summer Stratosphere field project.
	Residents of earthquake zones 'drop, cover and hold on' during annual ShakeOut quake drill People ducked under desks and tables in California and other earthquake-prone areas around the world for an annual drill held Thursday to practice ways to stay safe during quakes.
	Churches could be key for quake survival, expert says Text messages began to circulate about five minutes after an earthquake warning sounded for celebrants at St. James' Episcopal Church in South Pasadena on Sunday morning.
	Opinion: Climate change isn't just about emissions. We're ignoring a huge part of the fight Last month, we heard yet again about the need to stop global warming at about 1.5 degrees centigrade above pre-industrial levels. The International Energy Agency outlined a plan to meet that goal, and the United Nations secretary-general implored nations to get serious about cutting emissions to make it a reality.
	Headed for Mexico, Hurricane Norma strengthens to Category 4 Hurricane Norma strengthened Thursday to a powerful Category 4 storm as it headed toward Mexico's Pacific coast with winds exceeding 130 miles per hour, the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said.

Astronomy and Space news

	Cataclysmic variable Swift J0503.7-2819 investigated by researchers Using various spacecraft and ground-based observatories, an international team of astronomers has performed a multi-wavelength study of a cataclysmic variable system known as Swift J0503.7-2819. Results of the study, published October 11 on the pre-print server arXiv, deliver important insights into the nature of this system.
	Astronomers comb telescope archive and find microsecond-duration burst An international team of researchers led by Dutch Ph.D. candidate Mark Snelders (ASTRON and University of Amsterdam) has discovered radio pulses from the distant universe that last only millionths of a second. They found these microsecond bursts after a meticulous examination of archival data from a known millisecond source. It's unclear how the ultrafast bursts are created.
	Astronomers detect most distant fast radio burst to date An international team has spotted a remote blast of cosmic radio waves lasting less than a millisecond. This 'fast radio burst' (FRB) is the most distant ever detected. Its source was pinned down by the European Southern Observatory's (ESO) Very Large Telescope (VLT) in a galaxy so far away that its light took 8 billion years to reach us. The FRB is also one of the most energetic ever observed; in a tiny fraction of a second it released the equivalent of our sun's total emission over 30 years.
	New observations confirm important step in star formation New observations have confirmed a key step in the process of star formation: a rotating "cosmic wind" made of molecules, which is vitally important for collapsing gas clouds to contract sufficiently so as to form a hot, dense young star.
	Webb discovers new feature in Jupiter's atmosphere Jupiter has some of the most conspicuous atmospheric features in our solar system. The planet's Great Red Spot, large enough to envelop Earth, is nearly as well known as some of the various rivers and mountains on the planet we call home.
	This dark nebula hides an enormous star The birth of a star is a spectacular event that plays out behind a veil of gas and dust. It's a detailed process that takes millions of years to play out. Once a star leaves its protostar stage behind and begins its life of fusion, the star's powerful radiative output blows the veil away.
	The combination of oxygen and methane could reveal the presence of life on another world In searching for life in the universe, a field known as astrobiology, scientists rely on Earth as a template for biological and evolutionary processes. This includes searching for Earth analogs, rocky planets that orbit within their parent star's habitable zone (HZ) and have atmospheres composed of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. However, Earth's atmosphere has evolved considerably over time from a toxic plume of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and traces of volcanic gas. Over time, the emergence of photosynthetic organisms caused a transition, leading to the atmosphere we see today.
	Growing plants in space As NASA plans missions to the moon and Mars, a key factor is figuring out how to feed crew members during their weeks, months, and even years in space.
	Blue Origin reveals its orbital maneuvering vehicle: Blue Ring The Jeff Bezos-founded aerospace company, Blue Origin, recently announced its new and upcoming Swiss army knife-style spacecraft platform, Blue Ring, which comes after very little public discussion by Blue Origin regarding this project. For example, a January 2023 story broke when Blue Origin briefly announced a job posting for Blue Ring Senior Program Manager on its Careers page, but the job was pulled less than 24 hours later. Overall, Blue Origin has been quite mum about Blue Ring.
	NASA's Lucy spacecraft preparing for its first asteroid flyby NASA's Lucy spacecraft is preparing for its first close-up look at an asteroid. On Nov. 1, it will fly by asteroid Dinkinesh and test its instruments in preparation for visits in the next decade to multiple Trojan asteroids that circle the sun in the same orbit as Jupiter.

Technology news

	A Hebbian memory that achieves human-like results on sequential processing tasks Transformers are machine learning models designed to uncover and track patterns in sequential data, such as text sequences. In recent years, these models have become increasingly sophisticated, forming the backbone of popular conversational platforms, such as ChatGPT,
	From square to cube: Hardware processing for AI goes 3D, boosting processing power In a paper published in Nature Photonics, researchers from the University of Oxford, along with collaborators from the Universities of Muenster, Heidelberg, and Exeter, report on their development of integrated photonic-electronic hardware capable of processing three-dimensional (3D) data, substantially boosting data processing parallelism for AI tasks.
	Scientists design cobalt-free battery for cleaner, greener power High-capacity and reliable rechargeable batteries are a critical component of many devices and even modes of transport. They play a key role in the shift to a greener world. A wide variety of elements are used in their production, including cobalt, the production of which contributes to some environmental, economic, and social issues.
	Researchers develop new method for manufacturing tailor-made semiconductor thin films Organic semiconductor materials are promising key technologies for the development of state-of-the-art optoelectronic components and are used in photovoltaics as well as in sensor technology and microelectronics. In order to produce thin organic semiconductor films automatically and with well-defined properties, researchers—led by Leibniz IPHT in Jena, Germany—have developed a new technological approach for depositing thin films with high molecular precision.
	To excel at engineering design, generative AI must first learn to innovate, study finds ChatGPT and other deep generative models are proving to be uncanny mimics. These AI supermodels can churn out poems, finish symphonies, and create new videos and images by automatically learning from millions of examples of previous works. These enormously powerful and versatile tools excel at generating new content that resembles everything they've seen before.
	Amazon to expand drone delivery into Britain and Italy Amazon on Wednesday said it hopes to expand drone delivery into Britain and Italy by late next year, as it unveiled new warehouse robots and tech in its race to get shoppers what they want quickly.
	Honda, GM plan driverless taxis in Tokyo in 2026 Japan's Honda and US auto titan General Motors announced on Thursday that they planned to launch a driverless taxi service in Tokyo in 2026, helping tackle labor shortages in an aging society.
	AI models lack transparency: Research Artificial intelligence models lack transparency, according to a study published Wednesday that aims to guide policymakers in regulating the rapidly-growing technology.
	EU opens disinformation probes into Meta, TikTok The EU announced probes Thursday into Facebook owner Meta and TikTok, seeking more details on the measures they have taken to stop the spread of "illegal content and disinformation" after the Hamas attack on Israel.
	Google plans to make flagship smartphones in India Google plans to manufacture its flagship Pixel 8 smartphone in India, CEO Sundar Pichai said Thursday, joining a growing list of global tech companies limiting their supply chains' dependence on China.
	Researchers create new smart materials for wearable technology Fitness trackers, smartwatches and other wearable devices are popular ways to monitor and manage personal health. Researchers at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering are helping advance that technology by developing soft and stretchable electronic components that improve measurement accuracy, hold a charge longer and offer more comfort for users.
	French geeks plan world's biggest video game museum French gaming nerds are planning to open the world's biggest video game museum near Disneyland Paris.
	Metallic powders: Paving the way for industrial applications of laser powder bed fusion Scientists from Nanjing University of Science and Technology (NJUST) have reviewed the recent progress in the characterization, preparation, and reuse of metallic powders for laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), which can pave the way for the broad industrial applications of L-PBF by enhancing printing consistency and reducing the total costs from the perspective of powders.
	Striking the right tune: Music professor helps explore new dimensions for processing data Jonathan Middleton, DMA, a professor of music theory and composition at Eastern Washington University, is the lead author of a newly-published study demonstrating how the transformation of digital data into sounds could be a game-changer in the growing world of data interpretation.
	Amazon starts delivering medications by drone in Texas city Amazon.com Inc. laid out plans to expand its still-experimental drone delivery effort, announcing the start of sending prescription medication by air and promising to start flights in Britain and Italy by late 2024.
	Research reveals small businesses can struggle to leverage tech benefiting workers A new Georgia Tech study reveals that excluding front-line workers from the design process can increase employee turnover rates, leading to higher costs and reduced efficiency for businesses implementing new automated technologies.
	An extra 3 centimeters can prevent fires in rooftop solar panel systems Solar panel systems are now being installed at a rapid pace. In 2022 alone, the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) registered a doubling of installed solar power systems connected to the power grid.
	Asynchronous distributed PEV charging protocol: Powering the future of electric vehicles In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the adoption of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) on a global scale. Nevertheless, the significant surge in demand for PEV charging in particular regions or during certain periods can strain power distribution networks.
	New tech reduces visibility of the annoying grid pattern that appears on virtual reality screens In recent years, there's been a growing desire for improved virtual reality (VR) displays. People want VR experiences to feel even more realistic and immersive. However, a common issue known as the "screen door effect" has been a hindrance to achieving this immersion. This effect is like looking through a screen door, where users see a grid-like pattern on VR screens due to low resolution problems, which diminishes the overall visual quality.
	Is the genie out of the bottle? Can you trust ChatGPT in scientific writing? Since its launch in November 2022, ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art language model developed by OpenAI, L.L.C. in San Francisco, CA, U.S., has garnered the attention of the scientific community. As debates about ChatGPT's impact on every aspect of academia surge worldwide, a team from the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany, lead a project with multiple international partner to explore the potential limitations and advantages associated with the application of ChatGPT in scientific writing.
	Could quantum give us the generative AI we're looking for? Quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI) might seem as distant from each other as New York and Los Angeles. But according to Duke Quantum Center (DQC) director Chris Monroe, the two subjects are practically next-door neighbors.
	Suit charges crypto firms with billion-dollar fraud New York's attorney general on Thursday filed a lawsuit accusing cryptocurrency firms Gemini and Genesis with fraud that wound up costing investors more than a billion dollars.
	Nokia to cut up to 14,000 jobs as 5G demand slows Finnish telecom giant Nokia said Thursday it would cut up to 14,000 job as profits fell on weakening demand for its 5G equipment in North America.
	Taiwan's TSMC reports profit drop in third quarter Taiwan's TSMC on Thursday said profit fell by a quarter in the third-quarter, but said demand was picking up for its advanced semiconductors needed for cutting-edge AI applications.
	IAEA team gathers marine samples near Fukushima as treated radioactive water is released into sea A member of the International Atomic Energy Agency team visiting Fukushima for its first marine sampling since the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant started releasing treated radioactive wastewater into the sea said Thursday he does not expect any rise in radiation levels in the fish caught in the regional seas.
	What to know about the EU's landmark digital content act The EU's milestone legislation, known as the Digital Services Act, demands digital giants crack down on illegal and problematic content.
	Why it's time to renew Australia's renewable energy policy If Australia is to meet its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030, we need to cut emissions faster. Even if all current government policy commitments are achieved—an unlikely outcome given delays in implementation—emissions are still projected to be only 40% below 2005 levels by 2030.
	Electronics manufacturer cuts East Bay jobs in fresh tech layoffs A tech company that specializes in electronics manufacturing has revealed plans to slash well over 100 jobs in the East Bay, a fresh round of layoffs to jolt the Bay Area's wobbly technology sector.

Chemistry news

	Electron-rich metals make ceramics tough to crack Researchers have discovered a way to make ceramics tougher and more resistant to cracking. By building these materials using a blend of metal atoms possessing more electrons in their outer shell, a team led by engineers at the University of California San Diego has unlocked the potential to enable ceramics to handle higher levels of force and stress than before.
	Electrons are quick-change artists in molten salts, chemists show In a finding that helps elucidate how molten salts in advanced nuclear reactors might behave, scientists have shown how electrons interacting with the ions of the molten salt can form three states with different properties. Understanding these states can help predict the impact of radiation on the performance of salt-fueled reactors.
	Synthetic tape flagged as unsustainable: Research describes a more eco-friendly option We all know the bleak and desolate scene from a thousand crime dramas—the abandoned building, the blood-stained gravel, the flagging tape that creates a stark cordon around the evidence as it flaps in the chill wind under leaden skies.
	Mung bean peptides–calcium chelate: A promising alternative to traditional calcium supplements In a promising breakthrough for dietary supplements, researchers led by Associate Prof. Dong Lin at Guiyang University, China, have successfully synthesized mung bean peptides–calcium chelate (MBP-Ca), offering an eco-friendly and efficient source of calcium and highlighting the compound's unique properties. The study, titled "Process Optimization, Structural Characterization, and Calcium Release Rate Evaluation of Mung Bean Peptides-Calcium Chelate," was published on March 2, 2023, in Foods.

Biology news

	Physical theory improves protein folding prediction Proteins are important molecules that perform a variety of functions essential to life. To function properly, many proteins must fold into specific structures. However, the way proteins fold into specific structures is still largely unknown. Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a novel physical theory that can accurately predict how proteins fold. Their model can predict things previous models cannot. Improved knowledge of protein folding could offer huge benefits to medical research, as well as to various industrial processes.
	Stolen genes allow parasitic control of behavior of host A team led by Tappei Mishina at the RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR) has discovered that parasites manipulate their hosts using stolen genes that they likely acquired through a phenomenon called horizontal gene transfer. The study was published in Current Biology on October 19.
	High-latitude wilderness may be threatened by agriculture as the climate warms Humanity must cut carbon emissions and use farmland more efficiently to protect our planet's remaining wilderness, new research shows.
	New 'subway map' of Lyme disease pathways identifies potential new treatment targets Scientists at Tufts University School of Medicine have developed a genome-scale metabolic model or "subway map" of key metabolic activities of the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. Using this map, they have successfully identified two compounds that selectively target routes only used by Lyme disease to infect a host. Their research was published October 19 in the journal mSystems.
	Genome editing vs natural mutation for variations in tomato size For tens of thousands of years, evolution shaped tomatoes through natural mutations. Then, humans came along.
	Heat waves harm bird reproduction on agricultural lands, research suggests Bird populations are in rapid decline across North America. While climate change is just one of the many factors influencing North American birds, its effects are significant and can interact with other stressors, such as habitat loss. A team of University of California, Davis, researchers found that the effects of extreme temperatures on avian reproduction can vary depending on the type of environment that birds call home.
	Scientists discover deepest known evidence of coral reef bleaching Scientists have discovered the deepest known evidence of coral reef bleaching, more than 90 meters below the surface of the Indian Ocean.
	Fossilized bat skull adds vital piece to evolution puzzle Of all the mammals, bats have one of the poorest fossil records, with paleontologists estimating that about 80% of it is missing.
	New 'dragon lizard' species with impressive camouflage capabilities found in Southeast Asia An international team of biologists, animal management specialists, geneticists and forestry managers has discovered a new species of "dragon lizard" in Laos—one with very impressive camouflage capabilities. In their paper published in the journal Zoological Research, the group describes how the lizards were found and what they learned from two samples they captured.
	Unearthing the ecological impacts of cicada emergences on North American forests Every 13 or 17 years, billions of cicadas emerge from the ground to reproduce in eastern North American deciduous forests. One of the largest emergence events of these insects happened in 2021 when the Brood X cicadas emerged. Researchers who studied that once-in-a-generation event are now unveiling the impact this occurrence had on forest ecosystems, specifically on birds, caterpillars and trees.
	Restoring the function of a human cell surface protein in yeast cells G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest and most diverse group of cell surface proteins in humans. These receptors, which can be seen as "traffic directors," transmit signals from the outside to the inside of cells and are involved in many physiological processes.
	Current bird flu epidemic found to have originated in Europe and Africa An international team of biologists, public health specialists and infectious disease experts reports that the current near-global bird flu epidemic has its roots in Europe and Africa. In their study, published in the journal Nature, the group analyzed bird flu data from multiple animal health databases.
	Research shows roaches suppress immune system before giving birth Researchers are studying the dramatic physical transformation that some insects undergo to give birth to live young. This includes suppressing their immune systems to accommodate babies, which is something some insects and people have in common. Understanding how these systems work can help improve treatments for fibromyalgia and other immune disorders.
	Scientists discover new molecule that combats viral infection in bacteria A Ph.D. researcher at the University of St Andrews studying microbes in the human gut has discovered a new molecule that acts as a "distress signal" when viruses are detected. The research is published in the journal Nature.
	Researchers develop an innovative microscope platform to unveil the intricacies of skeletal muscle regeneration Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have created a cutting-edge platform consisting of a dual-laser nonlinear optical microscope to investigate the dynamics of muscle satellite cells (MuSCs) during the process of muscle regeneration. This breakthrough has identified new mechanisms of MuSC behavior in muscle repair, paving the way for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for muscle-related disorders.
	A change in rigidity switches the function of protein condensates involved in sensing touch Touch plays a fundamental role in our physical, emotional, and social well-being. From a primary way of conveying emotions to sensory integration, it is crucial for the complex growth of cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral abilities especially during the early development of infants and children. Touch allows us to build connections with others, eases pain and stress, and helps us to understand the world around us giving crucial information such as the texture, temperature, and shape of objects.
	DNA shows where Washington culvert replacements helped spawning salmon To help struggling salmon populations, the state of Washington is legally required to replace hundreds of culverts that divert streams under roadways. The state transportation department is replacing old, rusting metal pipes with broad, concrete promenades that provide more gradual gradients and gentler flows for salmon swimming upstream to access more spawning grounds. The full scope of the effort will last 17 years and cost $3.8 billion.
	Researcher scans tropical forest with mixed-reality device Rice University scientists used a commercially available mixed-reality headset with custom-designed software to measure and analyze forest floor vegetation, demonstrating a correlation between animal diversity and the mapped habitat of a Tanzanian national park. According to the paper published in the journal Ecology, the greater the microhabitat surface area, the richer the biodiversity of its mammals.
	In an ancient hot spring haunt of Inca rulers, scientists discover a new freshwater shrimp-like species In an ancient hot spring haunt of Incan rulers, researchers discovered a new species of tiny, shrimp-like scavengers known as amphipods thriving at record temperatures that can cook other crustaceans to death.
	Can golden retrievers live longer? Researchers find gene associated with longevity in the breed Golden retrievers are one of the most popular breeds of dogs. But research shows they have up to a 65% chance of dying from cancer. In a new study, University of California, Davis, researchers set out to find if certain genetic factors could help their survival rate. But instead of searching for genes associated with a cancer diagnosis in the breed, they instead chose to look for genes associated with longer life.
	Signaling across kingdoms to build the plant microbiome Microorganisms that live on or in plant tissues form what is known as a plant microbiome. This interface plays an important role in plants' survival due to the existence of beneficial microorganisms. Plants grown in distinct environments can have similar microbiomes or can change over time depending on environmental factors. This complex microbial community assembles and changes by exchanging signals between the host and microbes.
	Structure-destabilizing mutations transform Bcl-2 from an antiapoptotic protein into a proapoptotic protein Bcl-2 family proteins are highly conserved molecules that play a crucial role in regulating the release of apoptotic proteins from mitochondria. They possess Bcl-2 homology (BH) domains, which are characterized by both sequence and structural similarities, and are essential for their interactions and functions.
	New sea slug species named after retired biology professor The next time you head to the coast to enjoy the Tampa Bay waters, you may stumble upon a Pierce's Cyerce—a recently-discovered sea slug species that is being named after Sidney "Skip" Pierce, emeritus professor of integrative biology at the University of South Florida.
	Q&A: Bird flu in South Africa—an expert explains what's behind the chicken crisis and what must be done about it An outbreak of avian flu—a highly contagious viral infection that affects wild birds as well as poultry—has hit poultry farms in South Africa. Two different strains are causing outbreaks in the country—A(H5N1) and influenza A(H7N6). A specialist in poultry health, Shahn Bisschop, answers some questions put to him by The Conversation Africa.
	New water trumpet species found in the Philippines With the help of three citizen scientists, an unknown Cryptocoryne population was found in one of the streams of Zamboanga del Norte province, Philippines, in March 2023. After careful morphological studies and literature review, researchers from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and their collaborators confirmed the unknown species was distinctive and new to science.
	Scientists release 10-meter-resolution cotton map of Xinjiang, China Scientists from the Aerospace Information Research Institute (AIR) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), together with collaborators from Shihezi University (Xinjiang, China) and University of Toronto (Toronto, Canada), have proposed a cotton mapping strategy and provided high-resolution cotton maps throughout Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China.
	Growers, consumers want 'wildlife-friendly' plants, but researchers say education is needed Growers want to produce wildlife-friendly plants, and consumers want to buy them, at least in theory, new University of Florida research shows.
	Speeding boats risk killing off North Atlantic right whales: Study An overwhelming majority of large boats off the US East Coast are speeding through slow-zones designed to protect critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, of which only around 340 remain.
	Pinpointing the emergence of muddy flavors in fish Many people have experienced a muddy off-flavor in farmed fish. While the aquaculture industry has known about the problem for 20 years, it continues to impact the consumption of otherwise healthy and potentially sustainable fish.
	Increased vitamin C may mitigate copper toxicity in kiwifruit Kiwifruit is a popular, commercially available fruit packed with nutrients. Over the last decade, the cultivation of kiwifruit has been plagued by a severe epidemic caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa).
	Modulation of protein stability: A new approach to studying cosolvent effects Controlling the process of destabilization is important when manipulating the unfolding and refolding of proteins in vitro (outside their native environment). To this end, urea and alcohol are used as cosolvents, substances added in small amounts along with water, to destabilize and denature proteins.
	First Nations-led AI technology holds promise for salmon recovery Scientists and natural resource managers from Canadian First Nations, governments, academic institutions, and conservation organizations published the first results of a unique salmon population monitoring tool in Frontiers in Marine Science.
	Understanding mutualism can help control the spread of invasive species Cooperation between species to help each other's survival is known as mutualism. It is seen among many types of organisms, such as plants and fungi that exchange nutrients with one another, plants that provide bees with nectar in exchange for pollination, and sea anemones that provide protection for clown-fish in exchange for excreted nutrients.
	Underwater cameras facilitate large-scale study of oyster reef habitat in Chesapeake Bay A new study used a novel technique to assess types of habitat provided by oyster reefs across 12 tributaries in the Chesapeake Bay.
	Warming waters of the Arctic could pose a threat to Pacific right whales As rising global temperatures push Arctic icecaps into retreat, large and small sea creatures and the commercial fishing boats that follow them are also migrating northward.
	Human expansion found to pose widespread threat to biodiversity in Asia, especially in Southeast Asia Biodiversity is essential for sustaining food security, livelihood, ecosystem health, and economic development and for preventing future epidemics. Asia, with nearly 60% of the world's population, stands out as a priority for urgent biodiversity conservation due to its large threatened species and protected areas (PAs), and many countries globally are facing extreme biodiversity and ecological threats.
	Exploring the role of innovation intermediaries in shaping the future of AI-enabled engineering biology Researchers from the Manchester Institute of Innovation Research (MIoIR) at AMBS have just published an article titled "Innovation Intermediaries at the Convergence of Digital Technologies, Sustainability, and Governance: A Case Study of AI-Enabled Engineering Biology." This paper, featured in Technovation, offers valuable insights into the crucial role played by innovation intermediaries in shaping innovative ecosystems.
	Q&A: Scientist helps fish harvesters implement adaptive strategies to climate change For hundreds of years, business owners engaged in New Jersey's commercial fisheries industry have weathered adversity, from coastal storms to species shifts. Recognizing this resilience, and acknowledging the challenges posed by global climate change, Rutgers scientists have come to their assistance.

Medicine and Health news

	Solving a malaria mystery: Vessel congestion may drive brain swelling in children with cerebral malaria Unusually high levels of blood congestion in vessels feeding the brain may lead to severe swelling, scientists have found in a discovery that solves a longstanding malaria mystery: how the infection deleteriously impacts the brain of children.
	Prostate-specific antigen failure risk factors in nonmetastatic unfavorable-risk prostate cancer Research led by the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Massachusetts, performed a secondary analysis of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 05-043 trial. In the paper, "Risk of Short-Term Prostate-Specific Antigen Recurrence and Failure in Patients With Prostate Cancer," published in JAMA Network Open, the team searched for factors associated with shorter time intervals to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) failure in patients with nonmetastatic unfavorable-risk prostate cancer.
	Scientists develop innovative magnetic gel that heals diabetic wounds three times faster Diabetic patients whose natural wound-healing capabilities are compromised often develop chronic wounds that are slow to heal. Such non-healing wounds could cause serious infections resulting in painful outcomes, such as limb amputation. To address this global health care challenge, a team of researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) engineered an innovative magnetic gel that promises to accelerate the healing of diabetic wounds, reduce the rates of recurrence, and in turn, lower the incidents of limb amputations.
	Imprinted genes in the 'parenting hub' of the brain determine if mice are good parents, new study finds Whether a mouse is a good or bad parent can be traced back to imprinted genes in key neurons in the "parenting hub" in the brain, according to a new study by Anthony Isles of Cardiff University and colleagues, published October 19 in the journal PLOS Genetics.
	Breakthrough in treatment for world's leading cause of kidney failure in children A potential treatment for the world's leading cause of kidney failure in children needing dialysis has been discovered by an international team of scientists. The University of Bristol-led breakthrough has been published in Med.
	Molecular age of the eye determined for the first time A team of researchers have mapped almost 6,000 proteins from different cell types within the eye by analyzing tiny drops of eye fluid that are routinely removed during surgery.
	Two probiotics identified as promising hypertension treatments An estimated 40% of the global adult population have high blood pressure, or hypertension, which puts people at risk of cardiovascular disease and other dangerous health conditions. Recent studies suggest that probiotics may offer a protective effect, but researchers have a limited understanding of why shaping the gut microbiota can regulate blood pressure.
	Cancer drug that targets two immune-evading tumor tactics performs well in early clinical trial A "two-for-one" cancer immunotherapy is potentially more effective and at least as safe as standard immunotherapies, physician-scientists from UPMC Hillman Cancer Center who led an international, early-phase clinical trial report in the journal Nature Medicine.
	Researchers discover associations among PTSD, diet, and the gut microbiome The human gut microbiome has a significant impact on our health. Research has shown that it can influence the development and response of emotions, but the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the gut microbiome has been unexplored.
	Scientists develop new tool to precisely illuminate the roots of nerve pain Engineers at MIT have developed soft and implantable fibers that can deliver light to major nerves through the body. When these nerves are genetically manipulated to respond to light, the fibers can send pulses of light to the nerves to inhibit pain. The optical fibers are flexible and stretch with the body.
	Scientists explain how the brain encodes lottery values Neuroscientists have uncovered a key brain area in rats that encodes the value of economic choices when faced with the uncertainty of a lottery. This is the first time the causal role of frontal and parietal cortex has been tested in economic decision-making. The findings provide a foundation for understanding the neurobiology of risky decisions.
	Experiments on mice reveal the parts of the brain involved in motion sickness A team of neuroscientists at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona has found that the neurons in a mouse brain's vestibular nuclei control the signals that cause motion sickness. In their paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the group describes how they exposed mice to bursts of spinning to give them motion sickness and then tested protein production in certain parts of their brains.
	Combined treatment takes a bite out of tooth decay The sting of a toothache or the discovery of a cavity is a universal dread. Dental caries, more commonly known as tooth decay, is an insidious adversary, taking a toll on millions of mouths worldwide. Caries can lead to pain, tooth loss, infection, and, in severe cases, even death.
	Study finds carcinogen exposure makes cancer cells more susceptible to immune attack While carcinogens are widely known to be perpetrators of cancer, a new study from researchers at the Mass General Cancer Center has shown that exposure to carcinogens can increase cancer cells' susceptibility to immune attack.
	Researchers find that youthful proteins help nerves regrow Damaged nerves of the brain, eye, and spinal cord cannot grow back. But specific gene therapies might be able to change this, leading to treatments for paralysis and other forms of nerve damage, UConn Health researchers report in the October issue of Experimental Neurology.
	Research implicates calcium in 'chemobrain,' pointing the way toward potential therapy Chemotherapy is essential for many cancer patients, but some suffer from cognitive impairment throughout treatment. "Chemobrain" can consist of deficits in memory, attention, and executive function.
	Creating a 'robust' early-detection method for pancreatic cancer In a significant breakthrough that could eventually extend the survival of patients with one of the deadliest of all malignancies, an international team of researchers have devised an investigational blood test that might one day help doctors detect pancreatic cancer earlier.
	Study sheds light on immune response to COVID breakthrough infections While COVID-19 breakthrough infections—a SARS-CoV-2 infection that occurs after receiving COVID-19 vaccines—can occur, for healthy individuals with vaccine-induced immunity, these breakthrough infections do not often cause severe disease. There has been limited research to uncover why these breakthrough infections do not lead to severe infections, until now.
	High pregnancy weight gain tied to higher risk of death in the following decades Pregnant people who gained more than the now-recommended amount of weight had a higher risk of death from heart disease or diabetes in the decades that followed, according to new analysis of 50 years of data published in The Lancet and led by researchers from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.
	Lactate-producing bacteria inside tumors found to promote resistance to radiation therapy Researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have discovered that lactate-producing intratumoral bacteria drives resistance to radiation therapy, suggesting that lactic acid-producing bacteria present in various cancers may serve as novel therapeutic targets.
	Surgery-free brain stimulation could provide new treatment for dementia Scientists at Imperial College London are leading on the development and testing of the new method of stimulating the brain, which could provide an alternative treatment for brain diseases such as Alzheimer's, and its associated memory loss.
	Researchers document dramatic increase in cervical cancer in Appalachian Kentucky While the overall incidence and death rates from cervical cancer have dropped in the U.S., the opposite has been occurring in Appalachian Kentucky—a steady increase. The death rate from cervical cancer in Appalachian Kentucky is now twice that of the national rate.
	Large-scale study reveals new genetic details of diabetes In experiments of unprecedented scale, investigators at Weill Cornell Medicine and the National Institutes of Health have revealed new aspects of the complex genetics behind type 2 diabetes. Through these discoveries, and by providing a template for future studies, this research furthers efforts to better understand and ultimately treat this common metabolic disease.
	Neuroimaging study reinforces theory of mental 'foraging,' inspiring new understanding of schizophrenia How the mind searches for words and concepts in memory may have its origins in age-old patterns by which human and nonhuman animals search for food and other resources in their physical environment. That is the theory which received fresh support from a neuroimaging study which examined the brain activity of study participants as they searched their long-term memories for words related to various concepts.
	Ketamine's effect on depression may hinge on hope In study after study, the psychoactive drug ketamine has given profound and fast relief to many people suffering from severe depression. But these studies have a critical shortcoming: Participants usually can tell whether they have been given ketamine or a placebo. Even in blinded trials in which participants are not told which they received, ketamine's oftentimes trippy effects are a dead giveaway.
	Novel dynamic imaging technology captures the body's immune response to COVID-19 infection A team of UC Davis scientists has used dynamic total-body positron emission tomography (PET) to provide the first imaging of the human body's immune response to COVID-19 infection in recovering patients. Their work, published in Science Advances, could lead to a better understanding of how the body's immune system responds to viral infections and develops long-term protection against re-infection.
	Dietary supplement modifies gut microbiome—potential implications for bone marrow transplant patients Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Michigan conducted a phase I pilot study to assess the feasibility of using potato starch as a dietary intervention to modify the gut microbiome in bone marrow transplant patients.
	Red meat consumption associated with increased type 2 diabetes risk People who eat just two servings of red meat per week may have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to people who eat fewer servings, and the risk increases with greater consumption, according to a new study led by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. They also found that replacing red meat with healthy plant-based protein sources, such as nuts and legumes, or modest amounts of dairy foods, was associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
	Addition of dedicated nursing team to help with catheter insertions can help reduce bloodstream infections in hospitals A new report published today in the American Journal of Infection Control (AJIC) demonstrates that implementing a dedicated team of nurses to assist with central line insertions can reduce patients' risk of developing bloodstream infections due to those central lines.
	WHO says AI can transform health care if understood properly Artificial Intelligence has the potential to transform health treatment but rapid roll-out without fully understanding how AI performs could end up harming patients, the World Health Organization said on Thursday.
	CAR T-cell therapy effective in patients with blood cancer regardless of race: Study Patients with multiple myeloma treated with idecabtagene vicleucel, known as "ide-cel," a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, had no difference in overall survival outcomes regardless of race and ethnicity, according to a study published in Blood Advances.
	Legislative activity in early 2023 related to vaccination requirements in schools was largely unsuccessful Between January 1, 2023, and May 22, 2023, legislators in 43 states and the District of Columbia introduced 196 bills addressing school entry vaccination requirements, non-medical exemptions, and scope of practice for providers to administer vaccines.
	Eyes may be the window to your soul, but the tongue mirrors your health A 2,000-year-old practice by Chinese herbalists—examining the human tongue for signs of disease—is now being embraced by computer scientists using machine learning and artificial intelligence.
	High rates of severe maternal trauma during forceps, vacuum births in Canada warrant national response, analysis shows A McMaster University-led analysis published in the BMJ on Oct. 19, exposes high rates of injuries with forceps and vacuum delivery in Canada that have been documented for over a decade without efforts to address them.
	Canadians with peptic ulcer disease faced mental health challenges during COVID-19 pandemic: Study New research from the University of Toronto has revealed the mental health toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on older adults with peptic ulcer disease (PUD), a painful condition in which gastric sores develop in the lining of the stomach or upper portion of the small intestine.
	Study expands link between adverse childhood experiences and chronic MS symptoms Childhood stress may predict pain, fatigue, and mental illness in adults with multiple sclerosis, according to a study led by a Duke Health researcher.
	FDA is thinking about a ban on hair-straightening chemicals. Stylists say Black women have moved on The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is considering a ban on certain hair-straightening chemicals that have been used by Black women for years and that research shows may increase the risk of uterine cancer.
	Almost 90% of mother-to-baby syphilis transmission in Brazil could be prevented, study suggests Racial and educational inequities could be influencing factors in 89% of mother-to-child syphilis transmission across Brazil, according to new research published in The Lancet Global Health.
	How dangerous is insomnia? How fear of what it's doing to your body can wreck your sleep I (Leon) have recently seen several patients who were concerned their insomnia symptoms would increase their risk for dementia. They were in their 70s and were awakening two or three times a night, which they took to be insomnia. But they were not impaired in the daytime in a way typical of insomnia.
	The impact of not having a family doctor: Patients are worse off, and so is the health system About 6.5 million Canadians—roughly 1 in 6—do not have access to primary medical care.
	Heart damage: Another reason to cut down on children's screen time The effects of prolonged screen use during childhood have been extensively studied in recent years. Evidence indicates that excessive screen time is harmful both to neurological development and socialization. This is because, among other things, they cause us to disconnect from our surroundings, leading to very real addictions that often require intervention from a mental health professional.
	Tapeworm is spreading in Kenya—demand for meat brings parasite to new areas Echinococcus granulosus, a type of tapeworm, is a harmful parasite that affects 1 million people worldwide.
	Four reasons your hay fever may be worse when you move to a different country—and how to manage it There are many things a person will expect to be different when moving to a new country. The language, the social norms, the cuisine—even the weather.
	Genetic connection between aerobic fitness and disease is not what you'd expect New research examines the complex relationship between gene variants, cardiorespiratory fitness and the development of chronic disease. The study is published ahead of print in Physiological Genomics. It was chosen as an APSselect article for October.
	Regular health checkups may prevent the development of end-stage kidney disease, Japanese study finds A Japanese study has revealed that prefecture-specific participation rates for specific health checkups (SHC participation rates) had significant negative effects on prefecture-specific standardized incidence rates (SIRs) of treated end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and prefecture-specific prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
	Top ratings for home health care translate to high-quality care, study finds New research from Syracuse University assistant professor Jun Li looks at whether the ratings for home health care companies correspond with quality patient care.
	Million Hearts Model cuts five-year heart attack, stroke risk in at-risk patients The Million Hearts Model, which encouraged and paid for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment and reduction, cut first-time heart attacks and strokes over five years, according to a study published in the Oct. 17 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
	A third of schools don't have a nurse. Here's why that's a problem Jodi Bobbitt, the school nurse at William Ramsay Elementary in Alexandria, Virginia, is always ready to see children with a wide range of injuries and illnesses. One day during the first week of school, the parade started before the first bell when a little girl walked in with red, irritated eyes.
	Medicare enrollees can switch coverage now: Here's what's new and what to consider Consumers know it's fall when stores start offering Halloween candy and flu shots—and airwaves and mailboxes are filled with advertisements for Medicare options.
	Living alone raises Americans' cancer risk by nearly a third People who live alone have a greater risk of dying from cancer, a new study warns.
	COVID-19 may be worse for those with uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes People who have uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes before getting COVID-19 may be at higher risk of hospitalization or being placed on a ventilator, according to new research that also shows an increased risk of death if diabetes isn't kept in check.
	'I'd rather not know': Why we choose ignorance When given the choice to learn how their actions will affect someone else, 40% of people will choose ignorance, often in order to have an excuse to act selfishly, according to recent research.
	Genetics influence the risk of blood clots in oral contraceptive users, study finds Women with a high genetic predisposition for blood clots are six times more likely to develop a blood clot during the first two years of using contraceptive pills according to a new study from Uppsala University. The results have been published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
	TV shows depicting inaccurate childbirths need safety warnings, say researchers U.K. television programs showing inaccurate birthing practices should require safety recommendations for viewers to avoid misinterpretations by the public.
	Psychotherapy online: What psychology students think about it The more positive the personal attitude of psychology students toward video psychotherapy and the greater the positive expectations and experiences, the more they are willing to offer video psychotherapy after graduation. This was discovered by a research team led by Professor Kai Kaspar at the University of Cologne's Department of Psychology.
	Tobacco purchases rise following restrictions on e-cigarette sales, study finds The immense popularity of electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, among young people has led many policymakers to restrict the sale of flavored varieties. But rather than nudging people away from "vapes," as these e-cigarettes are called, such measures could backfire by driving users to instead buy conventional cigarettes, a much more dangerous product, according to researchers at the Yale School of Public Health (YSPH).
	Research shows new documentation tool could help optimize seizure treatments in patients with epilepsy New research from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus studies a new tool that will help medical providers identify patients who are failing epilepsy treatments earlier in order to change treatment to rapidly optimize positive outcomes.
	Sleep disorders specialist warns of misleading takeaway from study suggesting snooze button benefits A study out of Sweden's Stockholm University suggests hitting the snooze button on the alarm clock might not be as bad a habit as we may have been led to believe.
	Molecular pathology of suicide: A postmortem study What changes in the brains of people who commit or think about committing suicide? Ph.D. candidate Lin Zhang investigated at a molecular level the processes that take place in the human brain during suicide. The hope is that her findings could be the first step towards a drug or therapy intervention which could help people with suicidal thoughts. Zhang will defend her theses at the University of Amsterdam on Wednesday 25 October.
	Cranial remolding: Study shows baby helmets yield high success rate On average, about 450 infants are fit with a cranial remolding orthosis, also known as a helmet, each year at University of Michian Health C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.
	Drug mechanism opens door for new anti-cancer immunotherapies Researchers have revealed a new mechanism of targeted drug treatment used against chronic lymphocytic leukemia, through the promotion of immune cell function, that could be exploited using new anti-cancer immunotherapies.
	BNP peptide found to be a culprit in eczema Researchers from North Carolina State University have pinpointed a particular peptide's role in activating atopic dermatitis, or eczema. The work could lead to more effective treatments for the condition.
	Steroid-using US high school athletes more likely to sustain concussion, study finds More than half of US high school athletes who use anabolic steroids report having sustained a concussion, compared to around a fifth of those who do not use steroids, a new study published in the Journal of Osteopathic Medicine finds.
	Killer smile? An oral pathogen increases heart attack damage, study reveals Brushing and flossing regularly can keep your smile shining as brightly as ever, but did you know that it could also help protect your heart? Now, researchers in Japan report that an infected mouth could lead to a broken heart.
	Restoring the joy of fishing with innovative medical device The Medical Device Design team, a group of University of Akron (UA) students dedicated to solving the medical needs of the Summit community, has successfully created a new assisted technology device to enable a local resident to "reel" in the joy of fishing.
	Researchers confirm postpartum depression heritability, home in on treatment mechanism Postpartum depression (PPD), a common subtype of major depressive disorder, is more heritable than other psychiatric conditions, yet the genetics of PPD are understudied compared to these other psychiatric conditions., such as anxiety and bipolar disorder.
	New smartphone app quickly analyzes human motion to aid physical rehabilitation A research team has developed a smart phone app that can track and analyze a person's ability to move from one place to another, known as locomotion, and other types of movements. Human motion analysis is used to evaluate patients with movement difficulties, to help clinicians plan surgery, and to assess the results of treatment procedures. The research team believes that using the app costs about 1% of conventional motion analysis techniques and works 25 times faster. The study appears in PLOS Computational Biology.
	Racial, ethnic disparities persist in access to chiropractic care, physical rehabilitation for adults with low back pain Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide and a major driver of health care costs in the United States, according to the World Health Organization. Over the last 20 years, recommended treatment of low back pain has shifted from use of pain medications including opioids to early use of nonpharmacologic treatments such as spinal manipulation and therapeutic exercise, which are commonly provided by chiropractors and physical therapists.
	Cache valley virus: Another mosquito-borne illness making inroads in US A potentially deadly infection carried by mosquitoes may be more prevalent than once thought, U.S. health officials report.
	New study provides 'genetic fingerprint' indicating disease spread by sand flies may be on the rise in US Scientists have new evidence that a tropical disease once seen almost exclusively in returning travelers is now being detected in the United States in people with no international travel history—and caused by a Leishmania parasite strain that's distinctly different from "imported" cases, according to an analysis from researchers at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) presented today at the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH).
	Researchers pursue three gene therapies for rare inherited disease When neurobiologist David Corey showed up at a rare disease conference in 2017, he had no idea that he would enter a race against time to develop a treatment for it.
	Review: Drug for panic disorder less effective than previously believed New research reveals that the nation's most widely prescribed type of sedative may be less effective than clinicians and scientists have been led to believe, based on publications in medical journals.
	New link found between diabetes and steatotic liver disease Canadian scientists have found a new link between two major metabolic diseases: diabetes and steatotic liver disease, commonly known as fatty liver disease.
	Less is often more when it comes to health impact of children on parents later in life, study says Across the globe, it is generally accepted that individuals with larger families have more resources and support to draw on as they age. Less discussed is that having many children can produce economic, social, emotional and biological burdens that impact health—even at older ages.
	Diversity among research staff found to increase participation of underrepresented patients in clinical studies New research from Boston Medical Center found that research staff who interact with patients of the same race or ethnicity increased the odds of those patients agreeing to participate in clinical studies by almost a factor of 3.
	Nail salon and other small beauty service workers face significant daily health challenges The beauty service microbusiness industry in the United States—such as the small, independently-owned nail salons found across the country—is huge, with more than $62 billion in annual sales.
	Communities of color experienced fear, mistrust of institutions during COVID-19 pandemic: Study calls for action A study led by researchers in the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, has found that in communities of color in Inland Southern California, historical, cultural, and social traumas induce fear and mistrust in public health and medical, scientific, and governmental institutions, which, in turn, influence these communities' hesitation to get tested and vaccinated for COVID-19.
	EU clears Pfizer's $43 bn takeover of biotech firm Seagen The EU said Thursday it had given the green light for US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer's $43-billion acquisition of biotech firm Seagen, specializing in innovative cancer treatment.
	Diphtheria outbreak kills 58 in Guinea An outbreak of diphtheria in northeastern Guinea has killed 58 people, many of them young children, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a statement received Thursday.
	UK cost-of-living crisis is worsening the mental health of most vulnerable Three out of five Britons (60%) report that the cost-of-living crisis is negatively impacting their mental health, to the extent that as many as a quarter (23%) say they're having problems sleeping because of worries about rising costs, according to new research.
	Managing sleep during menopause Women typically go through menopause between the ages of 45–55. It's a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive cycle. This transition can usher in many symptoms, including hot flashes, anxiety and difficulty sleeping.
	Q&A: Understanding carrier screening for family planning Dear Mayo Clinic: My husband and I want to expand our family and are trying to get pregnant with our first baby. I've read about family planning couples can do before conceiving and learned about carrier screening. We don't have a family history of genetic conditions, but we want to know if there is a chance of passing a genetic disorder to our child. What is carrier screening? And how does it help couples with family planning?
	GLS2 shapes ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma A new editorial paper titled "GLS2 shapes ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma" has been published in Oncotarget.

Other Sciences news

	Large language models prove helpful in peer-review process In an era plagued by malevolent sources flooding the internet with misrepresentations, distortions, manipulated imagery and flat-out lies, it should come as some comfort that in at least one arena there is an honor system set up to ensure honesty and integrity: the peer-review process for scholarly publications.
	The oldest pieces of Baltic amber found on the Iberian Peninsula indicates imports began over 5,000 years ago A team of scientists from the Universities of Granada and Cambridge, as well as the Government of Catalonia, have identified the oldest pieces of Baltic amber ever found on the Iberian Peninsula, revealing that this luxury material used in jewelry and handicrafts around the world was already being imported more than 5,000 years ago.
	A new tool confirms the shift towards more a negative political tone in the US A new EPFL developed tool, Quotebank, has helped researchers provide the first large-scale data-driven evidence of a drastic shift towards a more negative political tone beginning at the start of Donald Trump's primary campaign in June 2015.
	Grouping English learners in classrooms yields no benefit in reading development, new study finds Grouping English learners together in classrooms, a longstanding practice in schools, has no impact—positive or negative—on reading development for elementary school students, shows a new study by a team of literacy education researchers.
	Tech breathes new life into endangered Native American languages Linguistics experts are turning to cutting-edge technologies to revitalize threatened Native American languages—and rejuvenate generations of Indigenous tradition—through new approaches such as children's books and smartphone apps.
	Researchers urge alliances to ensure supply chain security Understanding supply networks could have a significant impact on improving supply security, promoting and objective monitoring of the green transition, strengthening human rights compliance, and reducing tax evasion. International alliances are needed for such an understanding, as emphasized by a research team led by the Complexity Science Hub in a recent commentary in Science.
	Talking about science and technology has positive impacts on research and society Discussions around science and technology can become controversial, such as public conversations around climate science or gene-editing tools.
	Stress levels in Australian workplaces among the highest as workers battle interruptions and irritating colleagues As more companies mandate the amount of time to be spent in the office, employee stress levels are on the rise.
	New research challenges young dad stereotypes According to common prejudice, fathers below the age of 25 are inherently "risky," uncaring or irresponsible. However, a new research project brings into question popular myths and shows young dads demonstrating their willingness to engage in support services and advocate for policy change on a national level to introduce more father-inclusive practices.
	Scientist, after decades of study, concludes: We don't have free will Before epilepsy was understood to be a neurological condition, people believed it was caused by the moon, or by phlegm in the brain. They condemned seizures as evidence of witchcraft or demonic possession, and killed or castrated sufferers to prevent them from passing tainted blood to a new generation.
	Psychologist examines genesis of online groups of sexually embittered men What happens when lonely men, embittered by a sense of failure in the sexual marketplace, find each other and form communities on the internet? The result can be deadly.
	Native lands lack clean water protections, but more tribes are taking charge Across the roughly 1,300 square miles of the White Earth Indian Reservation in northwest Minnesota, tribal members harvest wild rice in waters that have sustained them for generations. They've been working for decades to restore sturgeon, a culturally important fish, and they harvest minnows and leeches to supply bait for anglers across the country.
	Understanding the barriers college students face to healthy leisure activities College students face different, often co-occurring barriers that may prevent them from participating in healthy leisure activities, like exercising or reading for pleasure, according to new research led by Penn State College of Health and Human Development researchers and alumni.
	Scientists suggest eight practical measures to help managers prevent quiet quitting occurrence in their companies Researchers provide eight practical suggestions to managers to prevent the occurrence of quiet quitting in the first place, as well as effectively handling it once it occurs.
	New report reveals BP and Shell divestment by small investors offset by mega-shareholder buys Any divestment from BP and Shell by investors is cancelled out by the top 20 mega-shareholders' acquisition of shares according to new report from the Center for Climate Crime and Climate Justice at Queen Mary University of London
	How fintech firms can advance sustainability goals "Impact Fintech" is a new term coined by researchers at the University of Waterloo's School of Environment, Enterprise and Development which describes a new category of financial technology firm—one that moves beyond ESG standards and instead embraces the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
	Researchers help study and catalog museum's ancient Greek coins Did you know the change rattling in your pocket is similar to coins used in ancient Greece?
	Hookups where one partner is drunker more likely to be seen as assault, says study A new study by Dr. Veronica Lamarche, from the University of Essex Department of Psychology, has discovered that equal consumption is more important than levels of drunkenness. This was the case even when couples had drunk to excess and was the same across sexualities and genders.
	Study finds startup workers fled for bigger, more established companies during pandemic The world may have felt like it had stopped in the pandemic's first weeks. But a "flight to safety" was underway at a popular digital job platform catering to the startup sector.
	In Australia's first major intelligence review since COVID, here are 7 key priorities to be ready for the next pandemic It may have gone unnoticed with the Voice to Parliament referendum and the disability royal commission report, but Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also recently announced a major independent review of Australia's intelligence communities. It's the first since the COVID pandemic.
	People experiencing news fatigue are less likely to be voters, finds survey In a comprehensive analysis of news consumption across the globe, a recent report by Reuters concluded that "interest in news continues to decline, fueling disengagement and selective news avoidance." In the 46 countries surveyed in the report, public interest in news has dropped significantly in the UK, France, the US and Spain over the eight-year period from 2015 to 2023.
	Machine learning highlights ways to improve flood mitigation Flooding in the United States costs communities more than $32 billion each year. As climate change drives increasingly severe and erratic storm events, experts project that figure to rise in coming years: Forecasts estimate that flood risk will increase by more than 26% by 2050. Because of socioeconomic inequalities in flood risk mitigation, flooding disproportionately affects metropolitan areas with larger populations of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) residents.
	The role of supply chain in knowledge transfer: A case study of South African automotive industry Unemployment among the youth is a serious problem in many developing countries, especially in Africa. This issue stems in great part from a stagnant manufacturing sector. Firms in African countries have failed to grow significantly over the past decade, leading to fewer job positions for the youth.
	UK government misses the mark on shaping healthy urban policies, finds review A large-scale review of two key U.K. policy areas reveals that health outcomes are largely missing when it comes to shaping our urban centers.

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