Science X Newsletter Tue, Oct 10

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Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for October 10, 2023:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

A human-inspired robotic hand based on a modular structure

Eclipsing X-ray binary 4U 1538-522 investigated with NuSTAR

Neuronal sensing of cytokine IL-12 induces tissue adaptation and protects mice from neuroinflammation

Better benefits from home-based walking than supervised facility exercise in PAD patients

Toward metropolitan free-space quantum networks

Researchers find pre-Columbian agave plants persisting in Arizona landscapes

Ping-pong balls as sound absorbers for low-frequency noise

Sweet victory: Sensor detects adulteration in honey

Powering AI could use as much electricity as a small country

Scientists identify new pathway activated by interferon-gamma that leads to tumor cell death

Direct electroconversion of air to nitric acid realized under mild conditions

Copycat nutrient leaves pancreatic tumors starving, may inform cancer treatment

First evidence that albatrosses use infrasound to navigate long journeys

How plant-derived nutrients can affect the gut and brain

How a small chemical change boosts bioavailability of drug molecules

Nanotechnology news

	Plasma technology transforms microalgae coating for wounds Researchers at Flinders University have taken a significant leap in the field of wound care using an innovative approach. By deploying an argon atmospheric plasma jet, they have successfully transformed Spirulina maxima, a blue-green microalgae, into ultrathin bioactive coatings.
	Study shows nanoclusters of insulin can control insulin activity A study published in Nature Nanotechnology shows how nanoclusters of insulin can control insulin activity. The results can lead to new types of insulin drugs, senior author Ana Teixeira at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics (MBB) at Karolinska Institutet, says.
	Novel framework promotes efficient electromagnetic wave absorption A research team led by Prof. Wang Junfeng from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed a bio-inspired metal-organic framework (Bio-MOF) to achieve efficient absorption of electromagnetic waves.
	High-performance SERS substrate proposed based on 2H-TaS2 and single-atom-layer gold clusters Recently, a research team led by Professor Yang Liangbao from Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (HFIPS), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) proposed an electromagnetic field enhancement mechanism based on the near neighbor electron orbit coupling effect, explaining the mechanism of two-dimensional (2D) layered material Au-2H-TaS2 used for surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) enhancement.
	Record-high 3D printing rate reached by acousto-optical scanning Professor Wei Xiong's group, from the Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, proposes a pioneering high-speed multi-photon polymerization lithography technique with a record-high 3D printing rate of 7.6 × 107 voxel s−1, which is nearly one order of magnitude higher than earlier scanning multiphoton lithography (MPL).

Physics news

	Toward metropolitan free-space quantum networks Quantum communications have rapidly progressed toward practical, large-scale networks based on quantum key distributions that spearhead the process. Quantum key distribution systems typically include a sender "Alice," a receiver "Bob," who generate a shared secret from quantum measurements for secure communication. Although fiber-based systems are well-suited for metropolitan scale, a suitable fiber infrastructure might not always be in place.
	Ants collectively carry large objects in a way that mimics a self-propelled particle moving through fluid A team of physicists at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel has found that when ants of a certain species collectively carry a large object, they do so in a way that mimics a self-propelled particle as it moves through a fluid. In their paper published in the open-access journal PRX Life, the group describes their study of the behavior of Paratrechina longicornis, a species of ant that are known for collectively carrying large food items to their nests.
	Ionic crystal generates molecular ions upon positron irradiation The positron, the antiparticle of the electron, has the same mass and charge as that of an electron but with the sign flipped for the charge. It is an attractive particle for scientists because the use of positrons has led to important insights and developments in the fields of elementary particle physics, atomic physics, materials science, astrophysics, and medicine.
	Beyond the periodic table: Superheavy elements and ultradense asteroids Some asteroids have measured densities higher than those of any elements known to exist on Earth. This suggests that they are at least partly composed of unknown types of "ultradense" matter that cannot be studied by conventional physics.
	Research shows how topology can help create magnetism at higher temperatures Researchers who have been working for years to understand electron arrangement and magnetism in certain semimetals have been frustrated by the fact that the materials only display magnetic properties if they are cooled to just a few degrees above absolute zero.
	ATLAS sets stringent limits on the existence of supersymmetric dark matter particles If new particles are out there, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is the ideal place to search for them. The theory of supersymmetry suggests that a whole new family of partner particles exists for each of the known fundamental particles. While this might seem extravagant, these partner particles could address various shortcomings in current scientific knowledge, such as the source of the mysterious dark matter in the universe, the "unnaturally" small mass of the Higgs boson, the anomalous way that the muon spins and even the relationship between the various forces of nature. But if these supersymmetric particles exist, where might they be hiding?

Earth news

	Volcanic fallout from Taupō eruption 1,800 years ago found in Antarctic ice core Volcanic debris from the massive Taupō eruption about 1,800 years ago has been found buried deep in Antarctic ice, according to a new study published in Scientific Reports.
	High mountains, high diversity: For how long have the Andes controlled South America's biodiversity? With the aid of stable hydrogen isotopes in volcanic glass, an international research team, including Senckenberg geoscientist Prof. Dr. Andreas Mulch, has studied the uplift history of the Andes Plateau. In their study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), they show that individual sections of today's biodiversity hotspot rose to their current elevation only 13 to 9 million years ago. The formation of the Andes is considered decisive for the development of biodiversity in South America.
	New research offers a theory on how gold, platinum, and other precious metals found their way into Earth's mantle Scientists at Yale and the Southwest Research Institute (SRI) say they've hit the jackpot with some valuable new information about the story of gold.
	Lethal climate change millions of years ago was due to volcanic eruptions, scientists conclude Climate change that has occurred over the past 260 million years and brought about mass extinctions of life during these periods was due to massive volcanic eruptions and subsequent environmental crises, concludes a team of scientists.
	Study shows live plant pathogens can travel on dust across oceans Plant pathogens can hitch rides on dust and remain viable, with the potential for traveling across the planet to infect areas far afield, a finding with important implications for global food security and for predicting future outbreaks.
	Stuck in the subway: Less privileged people have fewer possibilities to adapt their mobility behavior to heat Extreme heat amplifies social inequalities when it comes to subway usage and mobility in big cities, a new study shows. Analyzing the effect of temperature on people's mobility behavior in New York City, researchers from the Potsdam Institute of Climate Impact Research (PIK) find that especially in low-income areas there are little possibilities for subway users to adapt to and mitigate heat by reducing mobility. This could lead to additional heat stress and increase health risks.
	Beer faces unbitter future due to climate change: study Climate change threatens the cultivation in Europe of aromatic hops which gives beer its bitterness, according to a study published Tuesday in Nature Communications.
	Indonesian urban poor suffer the most in extreme weather caused by climate change Extreme weather as a result of climate change has caused disasters and catastrophes around the globe.
	Climate hazards aren't restricted by borders—African countries have taken a big step to address this Climate risks can be complex to deal with because they don't respect country borders. Hazards in one region can have negative repercussions in another. These are known as transboundary climate risks, and they're a growing concern. They require coordinated, multinational responses, which can be a challenge given the different priorities and capabilities of each country.
	The changing climate creates more noise in the oceans Due to the changing climate, the underwater world is getting ever noisier. That is the main conclusion of a study that was published today in the journal PeerJ. "In some places, by the end of this century, the sound of ships, for example, will be five times as loud," the article's first author, NIOZ oceanographer Luca Possenti says. "That will interfere with the behavior of many species of fish and marine mammals."
	Climate change main culprit for hot South American winter A wave of unusually extreme heat at the end of South America's winter was made 100 times more likely by climate change, according to a study published Tuesday.
	Global study warns water security threatened by droughts and heat waves worldwide Increased demand for water due to global population growth, coupled with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, endangers our water security. Nonetheless, little is known about the relationship of water use by sectors and the occurrence of drought-heat-wave events, particularly at the large scale.
	Monitoring African copper and cobalt mining emissions from space Emissions associated with mining operations in Africa's Copperbelt can be quantified from space, according to new research led by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR).
	Q&A: The new landscape of corporate climate disclosure Is corporate sustainability an oxymoron? California Gov. Gavin Newsom's recent signing of a law that requires large companies to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions has refocused attention on the role of business in combatting climate change. In this article, Lily Hsueh, a visiting scholar at the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, discusses California's first-of-its-kind law, climate action challenges and opportunities for corporations, and more.
	Study shows little improvement in mandated disaster plans, despite required updates Hurricanes, floods, heat waves and other disasters are striking the United States with increased severity and frequency, and since 2000 the Federal Disaster Mitigation Act has required states and local jurisdictions to have plans in place to reduce damages from such events. A new study from the University of Kansas has found little improvement over time to these plans, in spite of regularly required updates.
	14,000 displaced in Myanmar after record rain sparks floods Residents of Myanmar's flood-hit Bago city salvaged food and belongings from their waterlogged homes on Tuesday after record rainfall triggered floods that authorities said have displaced 14,000 people.
	Studies challenge established views on sand migration along San Diego County coast A renowned oceanographer who has studied the California coast for decades says new research challenges a well-established notion about how sand flows within the surf and long-shore currents that constantly shape the state's beaches.
	The river disappearing in drought-hit France The once deep and coursing waters of the Doubs river in eastern France have shrunken to a dry bed that locals can cross almost without getting their feet wet.
	Hurricane Lidia strengthens on course for Mexico Hurricane Lidia gained strength Tuesday as it headed toward Mexico's Pacific coast, threatening to bring flooding and mudslides to a region that is home to a string of beach resorts, forecasters said.
	Rainwater in cities causes more troubles than wet feet Researchers are looking at how to tackle pollutants in urban runoff and overflowing sewers.

Astronomy and Space news

	Eclipsing X-ray binary 4U 1538-522 investigated with NuSTAR Using NASA's Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR), Indian astronomers have observed an eclipsing X-ray binary system known as 4U 1538-522. Results of the observational campaign, published September 26 in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society journal, deliver important insights into the properties and behavior of this pulsar.
	First scientific results from Galaxy Cruise Galaxy Cruise, a citizen science project led by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), has been sailing the cosmic ocean with citizen astronomers to uncover the secrets of galaxies since 2019.
	Stellar fountain of youth with turbulent formation history in the center of our galaxy An international team led by Dr. Florian Peißker at the University of Cologne's Institute of Astrophysics has analyzed in detail a young star cluster in the immediate vicinity of the super massive black hole Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*) in the center of our galaxy and showed that it is significantly younger than expected.
	Source of electron acceleration and X-ray aurora of Mercury ̶ local chorus waves detected Since Mercury is the closest planet to the sun among the solar system planets, it is strongly influenced by the solar wind, a high-speed (several hundred km/s) stream of plasma blowing from the sun. Explorations of Mercury were first carried out by the Mariner 10 spacecraft in 1974 and 1975, which revealed that Mercury has a magnetic field, and thus a magnetosphere, similar to that of Earth.
	New Gaia release: Cluster cores and unforeseen science ESA's Gaia provides many new and improved insights into our galaxy and beyond with the release of five new data products. Among other findings, the mission reveals half a million new and faint stars in a massive cluster. The new Gaia stars revealed in Omega Centauri live in one of the most crowded regions in the sky.
	NASA's Webb captures an ethereal view of NGC 346 Within a neighboring dwarf galaxy known as the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) lies a dramatic region of star birth—NGC 346, shown here. As the brightest and largest star-forming region in the SMC, it has been studied intensely by a variety of telescopes. NASA's Hubble Space Telescope showed a visible-light view filled with thousands of stars. More recently, NASA's James Webb Space Telescope offered a near-infrared vista highlighting both cool and warm dust. Now, Webb has turned its mid-infrared gaze to NGC 346, revealing streamers of gas and dust studded with bright patches filled with young protostars.
	'Ring of fire' solar eclipse will slice across Americas on Saturday with millions along path Tens of millions in the Americas will have front-row seats for Saturday's rare "ring of fire" eclipse of the sun.
	Russia reports coolant leak in backup line at space station and says crew not in danger Coolant leaked from a backup line at the International Space Station, Russian officials said Monday, adding that there was no risk to the crew or the outpost.
	Want to explore Neptune? Use Triton's atmosphere to put on the brakes Aerobraking is commonly used to slow down spacecraft when they arrive at various planetary systems. It requires a spacecraft to dip into the atmosphere of a celestial body in the planetary system, such as a moon or the planet itself, and use the resistance from that atmosphere to shed some of its velocity. That slow-down would then allow it to enter an orbit in the planetary system without carrying the extra fuel required to do the maneuvers through powered flight, thereby saving weight on the mission and reducing its cost.
	Want to watch the sun safely with a large group? Get a disco ball The upcoming solar eclipses and the current high sunspot activity means it's a great time to observe the sun. Eclipses also mean that large groups of people will be together to view these events. However, rule #1 for astronomy is to never look at the sun with unprotected eyes, especially with a telescope or binoculars.
	Aurora records reveal shortened solar cycle during Maunder minimum Sunspots change in number depending on how much magnetic activity the solar dynamo generates. But there's not total chaos: These changes occur in a cycle, which lasts about 11 years on average. The sun also experiences extended periods of low activity that can last for decades, called grand minima. The Maunder minimum, which occurred between 1645 and 1715, is often viewed as an archetypal example of the sun's behavior during these abnormal periods.
	NASA's Roman mission gears up for a torrent of future data NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope team is exploring ways to support community efforts that will prepare for the deluge of data the mission will return. Recently selected infrastructure teams will serve a vital role in the preliminary work by creating simulations, scouting the skies with other telescopes, calibrating Roman's components, and much more.
	5 things to know about NASA's deep space optical communications Slated to launch on Oct. 12 with the Psyche mission, DSOC will demonstrate technologies enabling the agency to transmit higher data rates from deep space.

Technology news

	A human-inspired robotic hand based on a modular structure In recent years, roboticists have developed increasingly sophisticated robotic systems designed to mimic both the structure and function of the human body. This work includes robotic hands, grippers that allow robots to grasp objects and manipulate them like humans do while completing everyday tasks.
	Ping-pong balls as sound absorbers for low-frequency noise Long-term exposure to low-frequency noise can cause numerous health problems, but the solution may be found in an unexpected object, a ping-pong ball. Conventionally thought of as the hollow plastic balls that speed through the air during a fast-tempo game of table tennis, with a few modifications, ping-pong balls can help absorb the city din.
	Sweet victory: Sensor detects adulteration in honey Adulteration is a bitter truth in the sweet world of honey. As consumers seek nature's nectar for its purity and health benefits, a shadowy industry taints this golden elixir with hidden additives, most commonly water.
	Powering AI could use as much electricity as a small country Artificial intelligence (AI) comes with promises of helping coders code faster, drivers drive safer, and making daily tasks less time-consuming. But in a commentary published October 10 in the journal Joule, the founder of Digiconomist demonstrates that the tool, when adopted widely, could have a large energy footprint, which in the future may exceed the power demands of some countries.
	Heavy trucks likely not zero-emission in the near future, says decarbonization study Without political measures for zero-emission technologies, a significant proportion of heavy goods vehicles will still run on diesel in 2035. This result is shown in a new ETH Zurich study on the decarbonization of truck traffic.
	Biomechanics research signals progress for musculoskeletal rehabilitation and walking robots The findings of new biomechanics research could be used to develop more effective rehabilitation techniques for patients with musculoskeletal injuries.
	Analysis identifies drivers of offshore wind development As much as 20% of regional power needs along the Atlantic coast could be served by offshore wind farms by 2050, according to researchers with the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) who modeled deployment of this emerging U.S. energy sector in new depth and detail.
	Wireless, battery-free electronic 'stickers' gauge forces between touching objects Engineers at the University of California San Diego have developed electronic "stickers" that measure the force exerted by one object upon another. The force stickers are wireless, run without batteries and fit in tight spaces. That makes them versatile for a wide range of applications, from arming robots with a sense of touch to elevating the immersive experience of VR and AR, making biomedical devices smarter, monitoring the safety of industrial equipment, and improving the accuracy and efficiency of inventory management in warehouses.
	Sunny Albania turns to solar power to fuel development Along southwestern Albania's coastline, the sun shines bright—warming the 234,828 new solar panels at the Karavasta power station that will be connected to the country's energy grid in the coming weeks.
	Unlocking innovation: Multistable mechanical metamaterials' evolution in design, manufacturing and applications Researchers from Nanjing University reviewed the latest research progress in the design, manufacturing, and application of multistable mechanical metamaterials with the remarkable ability to switch between multiple stable configurations under external loading. The realization of reusability positions these innovative metamaterials for a wide array of engineering applications, including energy absorption, soft actuators/robots, mechanical storage, logical operations, and wave control.
	Does your employer have to tell if they're spying on you through your work computer? The COVID pandemic stimulated an irreversible shift in where, when and how we work. This 21st-century model of working—dubbed the "new normal"—is characterized by increased flexibility and productivity gains.
	Music plagiarism: Trial by algorithm? Ed Sheeran convinced a jury this year that he didn't rip off Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On." By way of contrast, Pharrell Williams and Robin Thicke earlier failed to establish that "Blurred Lines" wasn't a copy of Gaye's "Got to Give It Up."
	Bluetooth inventors get OK to use Viking king's name To the backdrop of the vast Jelling stones, Denmark on Tuesday granted the inventors of Bluetooth technology permission to use the name and symbol of Harald the Bluetooth for the next 1,000 years .
	Residential parcel delivery model evaluates greenhouse gas emissions, COVID-19 impact, and cargo bikes The e-commerce industry, which has seen remarkable growth over the past decade, experienced an even more accelerated surge in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This exponential rise in online shopping has triggered a corresponding boom in the parcel delivery sector. However, a glaring gap exists in our understanding of the extensive social and environmental repercussions of this burgeoning industry.
	Сoconut shells can make concrete more durable Scientists have found that concrete's compressive strength can be increased by 4.1% and its flexural strength by 3.4% by adding a small amount of coconut shell (only 5%). The material's performance increased by 6.1% compared to clear concrete. This effect is due to the fact that the cement paste—the bridge between all solid concrete particles—penetrates into the pores of the shell, firmly binding it with other components.
	How consumers are navigating the Amazon/Alexa data dilemma If you had serious concerns a major corporation were harvesting your personal information for its commercial gain but not your benefit, would you:
	Breakthrough method for robust and effective edge detection Edge detection is the process of outlining objects in a scene by identifying areas where changes in color or intensity signal boundaries between objects. It is vital in computer vision applications like object recognition, image segmentation, and feature extraction. Traditionally, its accuracy depends on image quality.
	Modular dam design could accelerate the adoption of renewable energy Southwest Research Institute has developed a new modular steel buttress dam system designed to resolve energy storage issues hindering the integration of renewable resources into the energy mix. The m-Presa modular steel buttress dam system facilitates the rapid construction of paired reservoir systems for grid-scale energy storage and generation using closed-loop pumped storage hydropower (PSH), cutting dam construction costs by one-third and reducing construction schedules by half.
	New study offers improved strategy for social media communications during wildfires In the last 20 years, disasters have claimed more than a million lives and caused nearly $3 trillion in economic losses worldwide, according to the United Nations.
	Novel optimization tool allows for better video motion estimation Cornell researchers have developed a new optimization tool to estimate motion throughout an input video, which has potential applications in video editing and generative AI video creation.
	Looking near and far without a lens: Radial masks give thin cameras a large depth of field To take an image that is completely in focus, one of the most familiar parts of a camera—the lens—isn't necessary anymore. Instead, a thin mask over the image sensor can do the job. But the kind of mask you use makes a huge difference in how sharp your image is.
	Flexible sensors made of nanomaterials—and the metaverse—will redefine how people live in the future Researchers from Changchun University of Science and Technology (CUST) and City University of Hong Kong (CityU) have conducted a survey on the fabrication of flexible sensors using nanomaterials of different dimensions and the triggering methods of interaction between these sensors and virtual reality applications.
	Tech firms struggle as Israel-Gaza falsehoods explode From fake accounts impersonating journalists to war-themed video games fueling false narratives, tech platforms are struggling to contain a tsunami of misinformation around Palestinian-Israeli hostilities after rolling back content moderation policies.
	The future of electric vehicles looms over negotiations in the US autoworkers strike On the picket lines at a Ford factory west of Detroit, many striking workers don't think the electric vehicle revolution is coming for their jobs—at least not in the near future.
	Star witness at US crypto trial says Bankman-Fried ordered fraud Disgraced crypto wunderkind Sam Bankman-Fried was the mastermind behind a scheme to defraud FTX clients of billions of dollars, the star witness in his US trial testified on Tuesday.
	Boeing deliveries of new jets dip as the company and a key supplier struggle with production flaws Boeing deliveries of new airline jets slumped in the third quarter as the company struggled with production problems that are cutting into its ability to generate cash.
	EU warns Musk X spreading 'illegal' disinfo after Hamas attack EU commissioner Thierry Breton warned Elon Musk on Tuesday that his platform X, formerly Twitter, is spreading "illegal content and disinformation", in a letter seen by AFP.

Chemistry news

	Direct electroconversion of air to nitric acid realized under mild conditions A research group led by Prof. Deng Dehui from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) has realized direct conversion of air to (nitric acid) HNO3 under ambient conditions through a hydroxyl radical (·OH)-mediated hetero-homogeneous electro-chemical route.
	How a small chemical change boosts bioavailability of drug molecules The effectiveness of any drug molecule depends on how well it interacts with the internal environment inside our body. Its pharmacokinetic (PK) properties determine how successfully it escapes degrading enzymes as it travels through the digestive system or the bloodstream, crosses biological barriers like the cell membrane, and reaches the desired target.
	Researcher develops better ways to convert CO2 and biofuel byproducts into valuable chemicals A University of Alberta researcher has developed better ways to convert carbon dioxide, a harmful greenhouse gas, and glycerol, a leftover of biodiesel production, into value-added materials with wide-ranging uses including liquid hydrogen storage.
	Scientists develop synthetic molecules that can 'ferry' mucus-clearing ions blocked by cystic fibrosis A University at Buffalo-led research team has developed molecules that could help unclog thick, sticky mucus from the lungs of people suffering from cystic fibrosis.
	X-rays reveal microstructural fingerprints of 3D-printed alloy Cornell researchers took a novel approach to explore the way microstructure emerges in a 3D-printed metal alloy: They bombarded it with X-rays while the material was being printed.
	Titanium oxide material can remove toxic dyes from wastewater Discharged in large quantities by textile, cosmetic, ink, paper and other manufacturers, dyes carry high-toxicity and can bring potential carcinogens to wastewater. It's a major concern for wastewater treatment—but researchers in Drexel University's College of Engineering may have found a solution, using a tiny nanofilament.
	Researchers publish first harmonized exposure protocol for ecotoxicity testing of micro- and nano-plastics Plastic pollution has become a significant environmental and human health issue at a global scale. Yet despite increasing concern over the harmful effects of micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs), no harmonized guidelines or protocols for their ecotoxicity testing have been available to date.
	Reassembly of parallel trimolecular G-quadruplex via novel Hoogsteen strand displacement reaction Using solution-state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) technology, a group of scientists led by Prof. Zhang Na from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (HFIPS) of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) recently discovered a novel reassembly process for G-quadruplexes (GQs) through a new type of reaction called Hoogsteen pairing-based Strand Displacement Reaction (Hoogsteen SDR).
	Novel sustainable coupling technology proposed for carbon-to-acetylene process The carbide-based carbon-to-acetylene (C2H2) process is a simple pathway to convert various sources of carbon into acetylene and carbon monoxide directly. However, the current industrial process based on calcium carbide (CaC2) is restricted by high energy consumption, significant amount of carbon dioxide and industrial solid waste emission.

Biology news

	Researchers find pre-Columbian agave plants persisting in Arizona landscapes A new paper in the Annals of Botany reveals that researchers have found unaltered agave plant species cultivated by several early cultures including the Hohokam people, a large Native American group in the Southwest that existed between 300 and 1500 CE.
	First evidence that albatrosses use infrasound to navigate long journeys A new study by the University of Liverpool provides the first evidence that wandering albatrosses, one of the widest-ranging seabirds, may use infrasound to help them navigate long and featureless foraging trips covering thousands of miles.
	Interdisciplinary research showcases key cell activity in real time Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a new imagining technique that shows key cellular interactions over time and space in a way that was not previously possible. The work could one day help in efforts to control "gene expression" in medicine, such as turning off genes that cause cancer.
	Understanding drivers of egg cell development Northwestern Medicine scientists have identified how cytoskeletal proteins contribute to the growth of developing eggs in fruit flies, findings that further the field's understanding of how egg cells form and differentiate themselves from other sister cells, according to a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
	Residue from household disinfectants may be leading to drug resistance in deadly bacteria Macquarie University scientists have contributed to a new study that suggests we may need to rethink current disinfection strategies at home and in hospitals in the fight against superbugs.
	Predator-prey defense mechanisms could unlock key to marine biofuel production Researchers have unpicked the mechanism behind a marine feeding strategy that could provide a valuable renewable source of biofuel.
	Gene-edited chickens in the fight against bird flu Scientists have used gene editing techniques to identify and change parts of chicken DNA that could limit the spread of the bird flu virus in the animals.
	Neanderthal gene variants associated with greater pain sensitivity People who carry three gene variants inherited from Neanderthals are more sensitive to some types of pain, according to a new study co-led by UCL researchers.
	State of the world's plants and fungi report: 3 in 4 undescribed plant species already threatened with extinction RBG Kew's fifth State of the World's report, published today, lays out the current condition of the world's plants and fungi globally. Based on the work of 200 international researchers and covering the content of more than 25 cutting-edge scientific papers in its 11 chapters, the new report examines global drivers and patterns of biodiversity as well as critical knowledge gaps and how to address them.
	Future-proofing deep-sea coral conservation in Aotearoa Changing the way we manage Aotearoa New Zealand's oceans could save our biodiverse-rich, critically-endangered deep-water coral. Aotearoa New Zealand is a biodiversity hotspot for deepwater coral—approximately one sixth of the known deep-water coral species of the world have been recorded in our waters.
	State of the world's orchids revealed in new report Up to 45% of all known flowering plant species across the globe could be under threat of extinction with the plant family Orchidaceae (orchids) among the most threatened, according to a new report.
	Liquid reagent can rapidly inactivate coronavirus for faster, safer and potentially life-saving testing A Queensland research collaboration has identified a simple, quick way to safely kill coronavirus in patient diagnostic samples and speed up processing for PCR tests—by using a unique sample preparation liquid.
	Lough Neagh: UK and Northern Ireland's largest lake is being suffocated by business and agricultural interests Lough Neagh is the largest freshwater lake in the UK and Ireland. It is a protected area of special scientific interest and the source of 40% of Northern Ireland's drinking water.
	Researchers: The Nullarbor's rich cultural history, vast cave systems and unique animals all deserve better protection The Nullarbor is one of Australia's iconic natural places. It's renowned as a vast and mostly treeless plain. But hidden beneath this ancient landscape is an immense network of caves.
	Wild plants may edit their genomes in the same way we make GM crops—and it could be crucial to evolution Genetically modified (GM) crops may be controversial, but similar processes happen naturally with wild plants. However, scientists have long been puzzled about how these processes happen. Our recent study may help researchers solve the mystery.
	Scientists study the effect of grape pomace on the digestive tract microbiota of herbivores During the grape juice extraction and winemaking process, a significant amount of residue, which accounts for 20%–25% of the fresh grape weight, is generated.
	Multiple novel yeast species detected in the gut of green lacewing in Japan Among fungi, including mushrooms and molds, there exists a wide range of yeast species that do not produce mycelium but instead grow as single cells through the processes of budding and division. Because yeasts multiply unicellularly, they are well suited to a liquid environment containing nutrients, and a wide variety is obtained from sap, nectar, sludge, and other sources.
	Urchin harvesters tried to reduce protections for sea otters: Here's why it didn't work Sea Otter Savvy monitors the animals in the Morro Bay Harbor, tracking their behavior and watching how they react to their environment. Sea otters remain a threatened species in California.
	Tribe catches coho salmon on free-flowing Elwha River, a first since dam removals With the plonk of fishing tackle in clear, green water, the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe's first fishery on a free-flowing river in more than a century got underway.
	Race to find world's oldest mammal fossils led to academic warfare in the 1970s The hunt for the world's most ancient mammals descended into academic warfare in the 1970s, researchers from the University of Bristol have discovered.
	Study shows wild pig populations in US can be managed Recent conservation efforts have proven effective at controlling wild pig populations in the Southeastern United States, according to new research from the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory and Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources.
	DNA aptamer finds novel application in regulating cell differentiation Generating specific cell lineages from induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells is the holy grail of regenerative medicine. Guiding iPSCs toward a target cell line has garnered much attention, but the process remains challenging.
	Measuring nutrition in crops using satellites With many people around the world suffering from various forms of malnutrition it's important that the absolute basics such as rice, soya and wheat are as nourishing as possible. Research shows that the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission and the Italian Prisma mission could be used to monitor the nutritional content of staple crops. This could, for example, help farmers take appropriate steps to boost the quality of their crops as they grow.
	New Begonia species found in southern Myanmar Begonia (Begoniaceae) is one of the largest genera of angiosperms in the world. The northern and southern parts of Myanmar are likely to be the home of begonias with favorable conditions in climate, topography and vegetation. To date, 38 Begonia species have been recorded in tropical and subtropical forests of northern Myanmar. However, the karst limestone areas of southern Myanmar are poorly known floristically.
	Comprehensive pan-genome analysis of lactic acid bacteria unveils new avenues for food industry and health care A team of international researchers has published the first comprehensive comparative pan-genome analysis of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), a family of microorganisms essential to natural ecosystems and the food industry. Published in Food Microbiology, the study was carried out by scientists from the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability (DTU Biosustain) and the University of California, San Diego.
	Humanity could lose half of future medicines due to plant extinctions, says report Humanity is "staring down the barrel" of potentially losing up to half of its future medicines because so many plant species are facing extinction, scientists have warned.
	Examining the role of methylation in vernalization and the photoperiod pathway: A potential flowering regulator? Recognized as a pivotal developmental transition, flowering marks the continuation of a plant's lifecycle. Flowering time determines the length of plant reproductive period and environmental adaptability. The correct flowering time is very significant for plants to reproduce fruit successfully and is controlled by environment and endogenous signals.

Medicine and Health news

	Neuronal sensing of cytokine IL-12 induces tissue adaptation and protects mice from neuroinflammation Cytokines are proteins that help the human body to control and support the work of the immune system. Over the past few decades, a growing number of studies have been exploring the role of specific cytokines, including IL-12, in inflammation and the development of specific diseases, such as psoriasiform skin inflammation and multiple sclerosis (MS).
	Better benefits from home-based walking than supervised facility exercise in PAD patients Research led by the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Illinois, found that home-based walking exercise regimens outperformed supervised treadmill physical therapy in patients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease.
	Scientists identify new pathway activated by interferon-gamma that leads to tumor cell death Researchers at the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a new role for a protein called extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in a pathway activated by interferon-gamma that can trigger cells to self-destruct.
	Copycat nutrient leaves pancreatic tumors starving, may inform cancer treatment A study led by scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys suggests an entirely new approach to treat pancreatic cancer. The research shows that feeding tumors a copycat of an important nutrient starves them of the fuel they need to survive and grow. The method, described in the journal Nature Cancer, has been used in early clinical trials for lung cancer. However, the unique properties of pancreatic cancer may make the strategy an even stronger candidate in the pancreas.
	How plant-derived nutrients can affect the gut and brain Can plant-derived nutrients alter gut bacteria to affect brain function? Scientists from the University of Leipzig Medical Center, the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences and the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research investigated this question in a study of overweight adults.
	Seamlessly multiplexing memory storage and recall Every day, we store memories, some of which we are able to recall later. But while we do so, do we keep on storing? Yes, because we cannot afford to stop memory formation while we are retrieving prior ones. Imagine, for instance, that you are navigating the city while recalling last night's events to a friend tagging along. Your brain must memorize aspects of the route even while you are in the story, so that you can find your way back later or reach your next destination.
	New study highlights inequality in green spaces and mental health A new study published Oct. 9 in The Lancet Planetary Health highlights the beneficial role of greenness and access to green or blue spaces in reducing socioeconomic-related inequalities in mental health.
	Smart scalpel could help doctors hone surgical skills Scalpels with built-in sensors could streamline training for surgeons and pave the way for procedures performed by robotic devices, a study published in Communications Engineering suggests.
	Marmoset study finds prefrontal cortex has two distinct types of connections to other cortical areas A comprehensive map of the marmoset brain by RIKEN neuroscientists has revealed that two types of connections link the prefrontal cortex to other cortical areas. This finding could provide insight for addressing neurological disorders involving the prefrontal cortex. The research is published in the journal Neuron.
	New study unveils the novel factor FGF18 as a pivotal driver of liver fibrosis Liver fibrosis is associated with various liver injuries, including viral infection, inflammation, excess alcohol consumption, and metabolic dysfunction. More importantly, the number of patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is increasing worldwide.
	Engineered material can reconnect severed nerves Researchers have long recognized the therapeutic potential of using magnetoelectrics—materials that can turn magnetic fields into electric fields—to stimulate neural tissue in a minimally invasive way and help treat neurological disorders or nerve damage. The problem, however, is that neurons have a hard time responding to the shape and frequency of the electric signal resulting from this conversion.
	AI-based tool leverages diverse data sources for a new approach to rare disease diagnosis In a major step toward untangling the genetic complexities of rare diseases, KAUST researchers have unveiled an innovative AI-based tool that leverages varied symptom descriptions, along with evidence from the scientific literature and genomic datasets, to pinpoint disease-associated gene variants. This tool could aid in the diagnosis of these enigmatic conditions.
	Immune cells identified as 'metabolic factories' in the gut A research team from MedUni Vienna has now demonstrated for the first time the central role of macrophages in the renewal of intestinal cells, which sheds light on the complex interplay between immune cells and tissue regeneration. In particular, it could be described that macrophages produce the metabolites spermidine and spermine in high amounts, which then benefit the other tissue cells in the organ.
	Poor sleep quality worsens health problems in obese older people, study shows Obese older people who sleep badly have less muscle strength and mass in their legs and arms, as well as more body fat and more symptoms of anxiety and depression than those who sleep well, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of São Paulo (USP) in Brazil. An article on the study is published in the journal Scientific Reports.
	Genetics may be responsible for one-third of complex regional pain syndrome cases Genetic susceptibility may be responsible for around 1 in 3 cases of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a poorly understood condition causing persistent severe and disabling pain, finds research published online in the Journal of Medical Genetics.
	Singapore's smoke-free law may have warded off 20,000 heart attacks in people over 65 An extension of the smoking ban to communal areas of residential blocks and other outdoor spaces in Singapore in 2013 may have prevented up to 20,000 heart attacks among those aged 65+, suggests research published in the open access journal BMJ Global Health.
	Discovery reveals fragile X syndrome begins developing even before birth Fragile X syndrome, the most common form of inherited intellectual disability, may be unfolding in brain cells even before birth, despite typically going undiagnosed until age 3 or later.
	Large clinical trial identifies best strategy to prevent life-threatening health care-associated ICU infections A large multi-state study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, HCA Healthcare, and the University of California, Irvine has found that a nasal antibiotic ointment, mupirocin, which is currently used daily for intensive care unit (ICU) patients in only one-third of U.S. hospitals, is highly effective at preventing Staphylococcus aureus infections in critically ill patients, outperforming an antiseptic solution.
	Self-constructed machine-learning model reveals early predictors of glioma evolution An international research team led by Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has unveiled how primary brain tumors evolve under therapy, and has developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered model for patients to predict their prognosis, shedding light on better patient management strategies and precision oncology.
	TB vaccine discovery paves path to end top killer of people living with HIV Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have discovered a tuberculosis (TB) vaccination strategy that could prevent the leading cause of death among people worldwide living with HIV.
	Researchers develop age prediction model for human brain tissue using artificial intelligence The aging brain undergoes structural and cellular changes that can impact function and increase susceptibility to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Age acceleration—or the differences between biological and chronological age—in the brain can reveal insights about mechanisms and normal functions of one of the body's most important organs. It can also explain age-related changes and functional decline, as well as identify early changes related to diseases, indicating the onset of a brain disorder.
	Obesity leads to a complex inflammatory response inside fat tissue, study finds Fat tissue, for as much as it's been vilified, is an incredibly complex and essential bodily organ involved in energy storage and hormone production, among other functions. Yet, modern lifestyles have led to a worldwide epidemic of obesity, and a corresponding increase in related conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
	Mental health issues in Latinx middle schoolers may increase risk of sleep problems, obesity and unhealthy behaviors Latinx kids who experienced depression, anxiety or other mental health issues in middle school had a greater chance of developing sleep problems, unhealthy weight gain and sedentary behavior in high school, according to a study out today.
	Maternal obesity predicts heart disease risk better than pregnancy complications, finds study Pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes have recently been associated with a higher risk of developing heart disease later in life. But a new Northwestern Medicine study has found obesity before or during pregnancy is the actual root cause of future cardiovascular disease.
	Five years of legal cannabis in Canada: Mixed success Five years after cannabis legalization in Canada, it appears to be a mixed success, with social justice benefits outweighing health benefits, write authors in a commentary published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).
	International team of scientists says identifying some foods as addictive could shift attitudes, stimulate research Researchers from the United States, Brazil, and Spain, including scientists with the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC, published an analysis in a special edition of the British Medical Journal (BMJ ) with a timely and controversial recommendation: It's time for an international shift in the way we think about ultra-processed food.
	Non-melanoma skin cancer killing more people than melanoma, new study finds Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is causing a greater number of global deaths than melanoma, the more serious form of skin cancer, a new study presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology (EADV) Congress 2023 has found.
	Radiology researchers test large language model that preserves patient privacy Locally run large language models (LLMs) may be a feasible option for extracting data from text-based radiology reports while preserving patient privacy, according to a new study from the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (NIH CC) published in Radiology. LLMs are deep-learning models trained to understand and generate text in a human-like way.
	Cambodia records second bird flu death in a week, third this year, after no cases since 2014 A 2-year-old girl is the second person in Cambodia to die of bird flu this week, and the third this year, the country's Health Ministry has announced.
	Alzheimer's researchers use physics techniques to investigate iron storage in the brain Exactly how Alzheimer's disease develops is not well understood, but an imbalance of iron in the brain might just play a role. Martina Huber of the Leiden Institute of Physics studied iron storage in the brain and managed to combine two techniques to gain more insight. "To achieve this, we had to bring together expertise from different fields and I am proud that we succeeded," Huber says.
	Disinfectants and antiseptics may be increasing the antibiotic resistance of hospital-acquired superbug Low levels of commonly used biocides, such as disinfectants and antiseptics, may increase antibiotic tolerance in Acinetobacter baumannii, a multi-drug resistant, hospital-acquired pathogen that causes serious wound, bloodstream and lung infections. This bacterium is known to cause infections in the blood, urinary tract and lungs (pneumonia), or in wounds in other parts of the body.
	Patients with cardiovascular disease less likely to use antidiabetic drugs, finds study The use of cardioprotective antidiabetic drugs, including GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic, is on the rise. While these medications can help protect against cardiovascular disease (CVD), a new study published in BMJ Medicine finds uptake is lower among patients with CVD.
	Analgesic effects of VR distraction and mindfulness scenes associated with different electroencephalography signatures Virtual reality (VR) can be used to modify patients' experience of pain. However, the current understanding of what type of VR content is the best for pain relief and the neurobiological mechanisms underlying VR analgesia remain unclear.
	A short history of insomnia and how we became obsessed with sleep French author Marie Darrieussecq writes in her 2023 memoir Sleepless, "The world is divided into those who can sleep and those who can't."
	The secrets to self-confidence, according to cognitive science In 2019, 7.2% of people in the European Union suffered from chronic depression. The human—and economic—cost of this illness is considerable, which is why the European Commission unveiled a €1.23 billion mental health strategy in June, to be achieved through 20 flagship initiatives.
	Shouting at children linked to depression—but defining verbal abuse is what will help prevent harmful parenting A recent research paper has found that verbal abuse of children, including shouting at them and calling them names, is linked to low mood, drug abuse and delinquency (antisocial behavior).
	Researcher: Spicy food might burn in the moment, but it likely won't harm your health in the long term Everyone has a different tolerance for spicy food—some love the burn, while others can't take the heat. But the scientific consensus on whether spicy food can have an effect—positive or negative—on your health is pretty mixed.
	Cancer in kids is different from cancer in grown-ups—figuring out how could lead to better pediatric treatments Cancer arises when cells accumulate enough damage to change their normal behavior. The likelihood of accruing damage increases with age because the safeguards in your genetic code that ensure cells function for the greater good of the body weaken over time.
	Advanced imaging reveals altered brain chemistry of babies with congenital heart disease Researchers at Children's National Hospital used magnetic resonance spectroscopy to find new biomarkers that reveal how congenital heart disease (CHD) changes an unborn baby's brain chemistry, providing early clues that could someday guide treatment decisions for babies facing lifelong health challenges.
	Research validates AI-powered gestational age calculator for global pregnancy care A study presented Oct. 9 by University of North Carolina (UNC) School of Medicine researchers at the XXIV FIGO World Congress of Gynecology and Obstetrics could revolutionize pregnancy care, especially in areas with limited resources. The study (FIGO Oral Abstract #FC01) establishes the diagnostic accuracy of an innovative new ultrasound AI algorithm for determining gestational age—a fundamental measurement essential to good pregnancy care.
	Nonsurgical treatment shows advantages in Peyronie's disease For men with Peyronie's disease (PD), nonsurgical treatment including injections of collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) produces high satisfaction with sexual outcomes—with fewer adverse events compared to surgery. These are the results of a clinical trial reported in the October issue of the Journal of Urology.
	SARS-CoV-2 infects ocular tissue, but inflammation absent in the eyes of patients who died from COVID-19: Study Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), infects tissues throughout the human body, including the eye. Now, a recent study has evaluated changes and investigated cellular localization of SARS-CoV-2 in ocular tissues at autopsy.
	Babies better protected against whooping cough if mom is vaccinated during pregnancy, study finds Mothers vaccinated against whooping cough (pertussis) during pregnancy have babies who are 70% less likely to have a pertussis infection in infancy, compared to the babies of unvaccinated mothers.
	Renting rather than owning a private sector home linked to faster 'biological aging' Renting a private sector home, falling repeatedly into arrears, and exposure to pollution in the vicinity are linked to faster biological aging—the cumulative damage to the body's tissues and cells, irrespective of actual age—indicates research published online in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health.
	Major study reveals safest way to take Valium and Ativan More than 60 years after benzodiazepines were introduced, doctors have uncovered the first reliable evidence to confirm the belief that taking these drugs, such as Valium and Ativan, intermittently rather than continuously is associated with fewer side effects and reduced falls, hospitalizations and deaths
	Research finds nonalcoholic beverages help reduce alcohol consumption Excessive alcohol consumption is a global challenge and is included in the Sustainable Development Goals, also known as the Global Goals, adopted by the United Nations. One strategy to reduce excessive alcohol consumption is the promotion of nonalcoholic beverages, such as nonalcoholic beer and cocktail beverages. However, until now, there has been a lack of research data on the impact of providing nonalcoholic beverages on the quantity of alcohol consumed.
	Large analysis shows high red meat consumption likely to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes A research team from the School of Public Health in LKS Faculty of Medicine, of The University of Hong Kong (HKUMed), reviewed large-scale meta-data covering more than 4.4 million people, and concluded that red meat consumption is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes. For example, a 50 g/day increment of processed red meat consumption is related to a 26% higher risk of CVD and a 44% higher risk of type 2 diabetes.
	COVID might raise odds for immune disorders like Crohn's, alopecia In rare cases, some patients may develop an autoimmune disease following a bout of COVID, Korean researchers report.
	Shorter courses of radiotherapy increasingly used for prostate cancer From 2004 to 2020, there was an increase in the use of shorter radiotherapy (RT) courses (hypofractionation) for prostate cancer, according to a brief report published online Oct. 5 in JAMA Oncology.
	AI tool similar to radiologists for interpreting chest radiographs An artificial intelligence (AI) tool for interpreting chest radiographs produces reports that are not significantly different from those of radiologists, according to a study published online Oct. 5 in JAMA Network Open.
	STAT3 as a target in H3K27M-mutant diffuse midline gliomas A new editorial perspective was published in Oncotarget, titled "STAT3 as a biologically relevant target in H3K27M-mutant diffuse midline glioma."
	Researchers explore impact of stress, depression on astrocytes The scientific literature is clear: chronic stress experienced in childhood increases the risk of illness in adulthood—everything from obesity and cancer to dependence and depression.
	B cell response after influenza vaccine in young and older adults A new research paper was published in Aging, titled "High-throughput single-cell profiling of B cell responses following inactivated influenza vaccination in young and older adults."
	Losing weight as a couple? It's just as good to go it alone, study finds New research has underscored how characteristics of "grit" and self-control are associated with better weight loss and weight maintenance outcomes in a study focusing on couples. And that these characteristics can change through behavioral interventions.
	Allergenic foods do not increase risk for infants, research finds Eggs, legumes including soya and peanuts, almonds and cashew nuts are now being introduced earlier in infant diets following revised advice in Sweden on the introduction of certain foods. However, there has been no change in the rate of food allergies or eczema in infants at the age of 18 months.
	Adolescent girls have worse mental health and well-being compared to boys, says survey Adolescent girls have worse mental health and well-being across the board compared to boys, finds a new survey report by the WHO Regional Office for Europe released today, World Mental Health Day.
	Researchers define normal natriuretic peptide level range across lifespan of healthy US population Natriuretic peptides are hormones with a range of key functions vital for regulating cardiometabolic health, including regulating blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and increasing utilization of lipids and metabolism. However, the reference ranges of NPs and the prevalence of NP deficiency in the United States population have not been clearly defined.
	Common diabetes drug could treat gum disease and help with healthy aging, study claims A new method of controlling inflammation and sugar levels for oral and systemic disease prevention using a common diabetes drug has been discovered by a team of researchers at King's College London.
	Study finds delayed ACL surgery may be safe for many adults, less so for some children A Johns Hopkins Children's Center study of medical records concludes that delaying surgical treatment of the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, in some children is associated with a higher risk of new tears in the meniscus and cartilage after the initial injury to the ligament, which helps join the thigh bone to the shin bone. Adults with the same type of so-called ACL injury generally showed no significant increase in such risk, investigators say.
	Study compares health information exchange data versus patient self-reports to measure cancer screening uptake Knowing which populations are following cancer screening guidelines is important to public health officials and policy makers as well as researchers developing strategies to improve adherence. A recent study is one of the first to compare using health information exchange (HIE) data with patient self-reported data as a means of gathering this intelligence.
	How facial coloring shapes our unconscious emotions A research team in the Visual Perception and Cognition Laboratory and Cognitive Neurotechnology Unit of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Toyohashi University of Technology has conducted experiments to investigate the effects of facial color on implicit facial expression perception.
	Parent and child experiences of racism affect whole family's mental health, according to new briefing A new briefing released today, "A Constant Battle," finds that racism has far-reaching impacts on parents, their children, and the relationships between them. Based on IoPPN research with both parents and teenagers from U.K. racialized communities, the briefing finds that both past and present experiences of racism can affect mental health across generations of a family.
	Extreme sports: How body and mind interact Ciara Burns spent 42 days rowing across the Atlantic in 2021 as part of a team of 12. Clearly, whoever ventures on such an adventure has to go to the extreme limits both physically and mentally. Therefore, a situation like this is very interesting not only from a sporting point of view, but also for science.
	For toddlers allergic to peanuts, a tiny bit of protein therapy under the tongue could be the best approach A three-year clinical trial has shown that the sublingual immunotherapy, or SLIT, is safe in peanut-allergic children ages 1 to 4, with a greater likelihood of desensitization and remission the earlier the treatment began.
	Protein key to placental heath could be target for reproductive conditions Immune cells play a key role during pregnancy, adjusting immune system response in a way that enables the fetus to develop while also protecting the parent and fetus from outside assaults like viruses. In a new study, Yale researchers have found that a particular protein found throughout the body plays a major role in this important immune system modulation, affecting placental health early in pregnancy.
	AI is capable of detecting incidental lung cancer in written medical reports Recently published in JCO Global Oncology, a new article presents the development of artificial intelligence (AI) for the accurate detection of potentially cancerous nodules described in computed tomography (CT) reports, conducted outside of the cancer screening context.
	Rise in deaths around retirement age is behind stagnant US life expectancy Americans' life expectancy has been stagnant for over a decade, and much of the blame has been placed on "deaths of despair" among middle-aged adults. But a new study, published Oct. 9 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests that chronic disease among older Americans is actually the biggest factor.
	Women with a disability are more likely to experience child marriage than women without a disability In 2015, the United Nations created the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to achieve by 2030. With only seven years to go, the world is not on track to meet the goal of eliminating child marriage and other forms of violence against women and girls. Child marriage has been linked with negative reproductive and mental health outcomes.
	New study examines COVID vaccine protection for patients with lung conditions Clinicians and researchers at National Jewish Health have studied COVID vaccine effectiveness in patients with underlying lung conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). Findings show that nearly half of respiratory patients have lower vaccine-specific antibody, B cell, and T cell responses than healthy individuals. Decreased immunity to the vaccine suggests that patients with underlying lung conditions may be less protected against COVID-19. Understanding why they aren't responding can give doctors a chance to treat patients differently.
	What's in your gut could be aggravating your menopause symptoms Over the last decade, a lot has been learned about what a person's poop says about their overall health. Factors such as frequency of defecation and stool consistency can signify a number of health problems. A new study suggests that these same factors may affect the prevalence and intensity of menopause symptoms. Results of the study are published online in Menopause.
	Medical imaging fails dark skin, but researchers have found a way to fix it Traditional medical imaging works well for people with light skin, but has trouble getting clear pictures from patients with darker skin. A Johns Hopkins University–led team found a way to deliver clear pictures of anyone's internal anatomy, no matter their skin tone.
	Primary care reminder plus patient outreach intervention improves rates of follow-up after abnormal cancer test results When cancer screening in a patient reveals an abnormal test result, prompt follow-up is critical so that further tests can be conducted, and if needed, treatment can be initiated as soon as possible. Numerous barriers to such follow-up exist, however.
	Automated chronic pain cohort mined from Twitter using machine learning Social media platforms like Twitter (now X) offer valuable insights into self-reported chronic pain, according to a recent study by multiple institutions. The researchers have automated the process of establishing a chronic pain cohort, setting the stage for future data mining and causal association studies.
	Q&A: Researcher explains the relationship between Parkinson's disease and sleep, treatment options Trying to get a full night's rest while living with Parkinson's disease is often easier said than done. Patients often face frequent interruptions and irregular sleep due to a number of issues, such as poor nap patterns, abnormal movements during sleep, medication side effects, and difficulties surrounding sleep-improving exercise.
	Syphilis transmission in US higher among transgender women and Black gay and bisexual men, study finds Transgender women and Black gay and bisexual men in Chicago are nearly twice as likely to contract syphilis at some point in their lives as white gay men, according to a new study conducted by scientists at Northwestern University.
	The biggest financial, legal and functional challenges of caregivers of persons living with dementia A new study published in JMIR Aging identifies the major challenges and needs of the 11 million Americans who act as caretakers for family members with dementia.
	Stopping the cycle of recurrent urinary tract infections in women A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers is the first to demonstrate the long-term efficacy of electrofulguration, a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that treats chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) among postmenopausal women.
	Interactive language during playtime helps build kids' spatial skills The way parents interact with their children during playtime strongly influences the development of spatial skills—a predictor of success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.
	Comprehensive new Canadian guideline for skeletal health and fracture prevention A comprehensive guideline from Osteoporosis Canada aims to help primary care professionals deliver care to optimize skeletal health and prevent fractures in postmenopausal females and males who are age 50 years and older. It is published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).
	Combination therapy effective in the treatment of relapsed immune thrombocytopenia in adults In the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), glucocorticoids and IVIg are considered the primary therapeutic options. Typically, clinicians opt for either of these treatments when addressing ITP cases. The research pertaining to the combined use of these two medications has predominantly focused on emergency situations and cases related to ITP during pregnancy. There has been limited investigation into the treatment of relapsed ITP in adult patients.
	Q&A: The legal drug crisis in the US Three out of four American adults say prescription drug prices are unaffordable, and nearly a third admit to not taking prescribed medications due to cost, according to a recent poll conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation. The foundation's data confirmed that Americans have a higher out-of-pocket cost for drugs than comparable nations.
	California governor rejects bill to provide free condoms to high schoolers A California bill would have made free condoms available for high schoolers, but it was vetoed Sunday by Gov. Gavin Newsom because of cost.
	Q&A: New thesis reveals mechanisms that regulate cellular defense against oxidants in the heart Zaher Elbeck from ICMC at the Department of Medicine, Huddinge (MedH) is defending his thesis, titled "Redox and epigenetic modulators regulate cardiac function and remodeling in health and disease," on 16 October 2023. The main supervisor is Christer Betsholtz (MedH).

Other Sciences news

	Calculating ongoing financial costs of climate change A pair of financial analysts, one with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, the other from Victoria University of Wellington, also in New Zealand, has conducted a global analysis of financial losses due to climate change. In their study reported in the journal Nature Communications, Rebecca Newman and Ilan Noy calculated estimates of damage related to climate change by comparing damage wrought by extreme weather events against economic losses over the past 20 years.
	Research finds dramatic increase in cranial traumas as the first cities were being built, suggesting a rise in violence The development of the earliest cities in Mesopotamia and the Middle East led to a substantial increase in violence between inhabitants. Laws, centralized administration, trade and culture then caused the ratio of violent deaths to fall back again in the Early and Middle Bronze Age (3,300 to 1,500 BCE). This is the conclusion of an international team of researchers from the Universities of Tübingen, Barcelona and Warsaw. Their results were published in Nature Human Behaviour.
	Participation in climate protests partly depends on expected size, study finds Whether or not people choose to attend a climate protest partly depends on its expected size. When they expect a larger protest, they are less likely to take part—as Universität Hamburg's Cluster of Excellence for climate research (CLICCS) shows in a publication in the journal Nature Climate Change.
	When you have a baby, can you stay friends with people who don't have kids? If you have a baby, does this mean you can't be friends anymore with your child-free friends?
	How employers can tackle misconceptions about disabled people in the workplace Disability is a common part of the human experience: the United Nations estimates that 16% of the world's population is disabled, and a 2019 study from the United States found that over half of American adults aged 18 to 34 have at least one chronic illness.
	Here's why farmers are bearing the brunt of big food companies' decarbonization efforts More than a third of the global greenhouse gas emissions resulting from human activity can be attributed to the way we produce, process and package food. So it comes as no surprise that many large companies involved in food production and retailing are under pressure from investors, politicians and environmental groups to clean up their operations.
	New research highlights the role of TikTok in spreading videos that encourage violence against women Researchers focusing on the concerning rise of groups who perpetuate misogyny, sexism and even violence against women have uncovered the use of TikTok by incels to spread their extreme beliefs.
	Why more school counselors and psychologists alone won't solve America's mental health crisis among students Of all the challenges that threaten the well-being of America's schoolchildren, one of the most serious and severe is the lack of school counselors and school psychologists. Despite the increased demand for their services, there's simply not enough professionals in these fields to go around.
	Corporate giants will have to disclose emissions under California climate laws—that will have a global impact Many of the world's largest public and private companies will soon be required to track and report almost all of their greenhouse gas emissions if they do business in California—including emissions from their supply chains, business travel, employees' commutes and the way customers use their products.
	How the religiously unaffiliated are finding meaning, purpose and spirituality in psychedelic churches More and more surveys point to decreasing membership in religious institutions and a corresponding rise of "nones." Many people might assume that this indicates the absence of belief or a lack of spirituality.
	Sharing visual teaching categories through language Category learning is a broad term that describes how people learn to classify things around them into various groups. We learn to visually distinguish between cats and dogs, for instance, or to identify specific dog breeds.
	Research shows COVID-19 pandemic substantially changed commuting patterns, access to jobs Patterns of movement in cities, especially office job commutes, were substantially changed in 2021 by telework, economic change and other responses to COVID-19, according to new research from the Accessibility Observatory at the University of Minnesota. While immediate effects of these behavioral changes, such as reduced congestion and lower transit ridership, have been well-documented, the new data reveal deeper impacts that differ by the three modes studied: auto, transit and biking.
	New study highlights role of 'social capital' in contributing to food security of Somali-American households Despite the U.S.'s perceived wealth and abundance, food security remains a public health challenge for millions of Americans. In 2021, 13.5 million U.S. households were food insecure—meaning they did not have access at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life—and rates of household food insecurity were especially high among single-parent households, Black and Hispanic households and low-income households.
	Artificial intelligence and clay tablets: Not yet a perfect match : More and more articles are popping up about the possibilities offered by artificial intelligence for researching documents in the oldest scripts, from translating ancient texts, to filling in missing parts of clay tablets. But are we better off leaving the deciphering of ancient texts to computers from now on?
	How to cope when your values clash with your co-workers' In our increasingly polarized society, more people may find themselves in a workplace where they are one of the few conservatives or few liberals around.
	Nine policies companies should implement to reduce burnout, according to employees On World Mental Health Day, October 10th, the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, shares new survey findings that may help employers reduce burnout and improve workforce well-being by up to 40%.
	False pride: When praise from managers makes employees arrogant and a problem for their colleagues In three online surveys conducted with several hundred participants, the experts looked into how interactions between managers and staff affected employees' behavior towards one another.
	Chinese government's corporate subsidies have had little effect on firms' productivity Over the past 15 years, the Chinese government has made significant efforts to promote innovation-driven growth through industrial policy and corporate subsidies. In a new study, researchers examined government subsidies to businesses in China to determine whether they are making firms more productive. The study found that China's rising wave of subsidizing businesses has had limited effect on promoting the firms' productivity.
	Building on the greenbelt is central to solving England's housing crisis, say researchers Amid new targets of 1.5m new homes over five years, the Labour party has pledged to review the planning rules which dictate where housing in England can be built. The shadow chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has said that "a common-sense approach" to deciding quite what land is worth protecting and what can sensibly be used to create more housing was crucial.

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