Science X Newsletter Wed, Dec 6

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Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for December 6, 2023:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

Astronomers investigate the Southern Beehive cluster

When do brains grow up? Research shows mouse and primate brains mature at same pace

24/7 solar towers could double energy output

Astronomers discover galaxies have bipolar gas outflows reaching far into intergalactic space

Astronomers provide first detailed picture of ice in planet-forming disk

Could a monthly treatment prevent fentanyl overdoses? Scientists are working on it

New study concludes finding cure for malaria may be even more challenging than thought

Blood hormone levels identify which post-menopausal women will benefit most from a medication to prevent breast cancer

Study finds sleep can improve memory retention but can also imprint false memories

Novel stem cell culture system could lead to future therapies for a variety of disorders

A possible way for early life on Earth to survive cosmic radiation

Scientists discover plant hormone that boosts growth by 30%

Researchers show that an influx of water and salts propel immune cells through the body

How drugs can target the thick 'scar tissue' of pancreatic cancer

Melting fire-ice: Study finds climate change can cause methane to be released from the deep ocean

Nanotechnology news

Bowtie resonators that build themselves bridge the gap between nanoscopic and macroscopic A central goal in quantum optics and photonics is to increase the strength of the interaction between light and matter to produce, for example, better photodetectors or quantum light sources. The best way to do that is to use optical resonators that store light for a long time, making it interact more strongly with matter. If the resonator is also very small, such that light is squeezed into a tiny region of space, the interaction is enhanced even further. The ideal resonator would store light for a long time in a region at the size of a single atom.

Study shows precise control of colloids through magnetism is possible Bayreuth researchers have found ways to control tiny particles in liquids using magnetic patterns. The research results have now been published in Nature Communications under the title "Simultaneous and independent topological control of identical microparticles in non-periodic energy landscapes."

Physics news

	Grinding coffee with a splash of water reduces static electricity and makes more consistent and intense espresso: Study The fracturing and friction of coffee beans during grinding generates electricity that causes coffee particles to clump together and stick to the grinder. Researchers report Dec. 6 in the journal Matter that coffee beans with higher internal moisture produce less static electricity, which means less coffee is wasted and there is less mess to clean up.
	A novel microscope operates on the quantum state of single electrons Physicists at the University of Regensburg have found a way to manipulate the quantum state of individual electrons using a microscope with atomic resolution. The results of the study have now been published in the journal Nature.
	Researchers create first supermirrors in mid-infrared range An international team of researchers from Austria, the United States and Switzerland have created the first supermirrors in the mid-infrared range. These mirrors are a key technology for many applications, such as optical spectroscopy of greenhouse gases or industrial lasers for cutting and welding. The results were recently published in Nature Communications .
	Luttinger's theorem at the core of topological matter In 1960, Joaquin Luttinger introduced a universal statement that relates the total number of particles that a system can accommodate to its behavior under low-energy excitations. While Luttinger's theorem is readily verified in systems of independent particles, it also holds true in correlated quantum matter exhibiting strong interactions between the particles.
	Singing in the rain: Why the bundengan sounds better wet A bundengan wears many hats—and is one too. This portable shelter woven from bamboo has protected Indonesian duck herders from the sun and rain for centuries. Able to comfortably balance on the wearer's head, a bundengan is equipped with a visor that curves around the side to meet at a long back. A more surprising, but no less practical, feature is the collection of strings and bamboo bars added in to produce music. Duck herders fill the hours spent tending to ducks sitting underneath their outfitted shelter, playing their shield as an instrument.
	Study offers correction for better calculations for the magnetic properties of neodymium compounds High-energy neutron scattering is a powerful tool in spectroscopy, allowing researchers to probe the physical and chemical properties of many different materials.

Earth news

	Melting fire-ice: Study finds climate change can cause methane to be released from the deep ocean New research has shown that fire-ice—frozen methane which is trapped as a solid under our oceans—is vulnerable to melting due to climate change and could be released into the sea.
	The ocean may be storing more carbon than estimated in earlier studies The ocean's capacity to store atmospheric carbon dioxide is some 20% greater than the estimates contained in the latest IPCC report. These are the findings of a study published in the journal Nature led by an international team including a biologist from the CNRS. The scientists looked at the role played by plankton in the natural transport of carbon from surface waters down to the seabed.
	Making the case for the location of the Bolaven extraterrestrial impact crater A multi-institutional team of geoscientists, geologists and mineralogists has found what they believe to be the site of the crater formed from the Bolaven extraterrestrial impact. In their paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the group describes their multi-year study of tektites and other ejecta believed to have been associated with the Bolaven extraterrestrial impact in southern Laos.
	New technique enhances imaging of fluid-filled rocks, finds connection to microearthquakes An international team of scientists led by Dr. Xin Liu, Assistant Professor of the Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong (HKU), along with seismologists from the U.S. and China, has recently introduced a new method called ambient noise differential adjoint tomography, which allows researchers to better visualize rocks with fluids.
	Scientists investigate Socorro Magma Body to enhance volcanic understanding Although volcanoes have been extensively studied, unraveling the mysteries of the underlying magma transport proves to be a challenging pursuit. Grant Block, a graduate student in The University of New Mexico's Department of Physics & Astronomy, recently conducted a thorough study of the Socorro Magma Body (SMB) in Socorro, N.M., which provides a window into magmatic processes important in volcanic activity (although there is no such activity above the SMB).
	November is the sixth straight month to set a heat record, scientists say For the sixth month in a row, Earth set a new monthly record for heat, and also added the hottest autumn to the litany of record-breaking heat this year, the European climate agency calculated.
	Planet tipping points pose 'unprecedented' threat to humanity: report Humanity faces an "unprecedented" risk from tipping points that could unleash a domino effect of irreversible catastrophes across the planet, researchers warned Wednesday.
	Report: Pivotal moment for humanity as tipping point threats and opportunities accelerate The world has reached a pivotal moment as threats from Earth system tipping points—and progress towards positive tipping points—accelerate, a new report shows.
	Study reveals changes in glaciers, snow cover and permafrost in Chinese Altai mountains since 2000 The Altai Mountains are located in the eastern hinterland of Central Asia, bordering Russia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan. Chinese Altai Mountains, located in the north of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, belongs to the southern slope of the middle section of Altai Mountains. As an accumulation area of major cryosphere elements, cryosphere changes in the Chinese Altai Mountains have important impacts on regional water resources and ecosystems.
	Warfare ruins the environment—and not just on the front lines On the morning of December 6, 1917, a French cargo ship called SS Mont-Blanc collided with a Norwegian vessel in the harbor of Halifax in Nova Scotia, Canada. The SS Mont-Blanc, which was laden with 3,000 tons of high explosives destined for the battlefields of the first world war, caught fire and exploded.
	Researchers: The climate change we caused is here for at least 50,000 years—and probably far longer In February 2000, Paul Crutzen rose to speak at the International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme in Mexico. And when he spoke, people took notice. He was then one of the world's most cited scientists, a Nobel laureate working on huge-scale problems—the ozone hole, the effects of a nuclear winter.
	How a citizen science initiative recruited a diverse group to identify lead pipes in homes Recruiting participants for a citizen science project produced a more diverse group when people were signed up through partner organizations, such as schools and faith-based organizations, than when they joined on their own. We used this approach to recruit volunteers for Crowd the Tap, a citizen science initiative that crowdsources the locations of lead plumbing in homes.
	Deep within an inhospitable desert, a window to first life on Earth CU Boulder geologist Brian Hynek has helped to document what may be a unique kind of ecosystem on Earth—and a possible window into the earliest stages of life on this planet 3.5 billion years ago, and even life on ancient Mars.
	Seafloor shapes on the flanks of mid-ocean ridges linked to magma supply At nearly 65,000 kilometers long, the mid-ocean ridge system is the longest mountain range in the world. Running beneath the ocean's surface, mid-ocean ridges are formed at divergent plate boundaries, where tectonic plates stretch apart and magma rises to create new crust on the ocean's floor. The rift along the axis of the mid-ocean ridge system is among the most seismically active locations on Earth.
	Swiss project explores different storage pathways for CO₂ Switzerland has set itself an ambitious goal: to reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. But this will require more than just a massive expansion of renewable energies and saving measures.
	Researcher: Black Summer response shows Australia is good in an emergency but bad in a crisis It was a summer in Hell.
	Los Angeles aims to collect billions more gallons of local water by 2045 Over the next two decades, Los Angeles County will collect billions more gallons in water from local sources, especially storm and reclaimed water, shifting from its reliance on other region's water supplies as the effects of climate change make such efforts less reliable and more expensive.
	Potentially harmful chemical byproducts left behind when sunlight breaks down ocean plastics Northeastern researchers found in 2021 that an estimated 4 million to 10 million tons of plastic carbon enter the ocean each year. Much of it ends up floating in subtropical currents.
	Carbon hot spots discovered near California coast Scientists exploring the Northern California coast have, for the first time, uncovered a treasure trove of carbon compacted on the seafloor—a discovery that may help unravel the ocean's power to combat climate change.
	Climate negotiators get down to business at COP28 summit COP28 is approaching the end of the first week and the kings, presidents and prime ministers have flown off. Now, hundreds of seasoned climate diplomats must get down to the tough job of negotiating a text that everyone can agree on. Adnan Amin, who as chief executive officer of COP28 is one of Sultan Al-Jaber's most senior lieutenants, said in an interview there are several areas that are likely to test negotiators over the rest of the summit.
	Researchers investigate how climate change drivers reshape ocean methane and nitrous oxide cycles The ocean is a critical life-support system for our planet through its role in global climate regulation. It absorbs most of the carbon emissions and heat trapped in the atmosphere, which result from human activities. Over the years, this has led to ocean warming (OW), ocean acidification (OA), and ocean deoxygenation (OD). Moreover, increased anthropogenic nitrogen deposition (AND) has largely influenced marine environments.
	These men once relied on the Aral Sea. Today, the dry land is a reminder of lost livelihoods Brushing the dust from his hat and lying on the floor inside his home, Ali Shadilov recalls how he and other fishermen used to laugh at town elders who warned that the enormous sea they relied on was disappearing.
	COP28 fossil fuel debate sizzles as world marks record hot year With 2023 confirmed to be the hottest year on record by Europe's climate monitor, the temperature was also rising Wednesday on negotiators thrashing out the thorny issue of fossil fuels at COP28 in Dubai.
	'Living dead': Tunisian villages suffer drought, climate change Tunisian villager Ounissa Mazhoud ties two empty jerry cans to a donkey and cautiously descends a stony hill towards the last local source of water.
	Dangerous proximity of ships, pipeline led to California oil spill; investigators urge reform A federal agency wants changes in how container ships are anchored off Southern California as well as new safety measures for vessels near offshore pipelines to help prevent or minimize ruptures like the one that spilled 25,000 gallons of crude oil off Huntington Beach.

Astronomy and Space news

	Astronomers investigate the Southern Beehive cluster An international team of astronomers has performed the first asteroseismic study of the young open cluster NGC 2516, better known as the Southern Beehive. Results of the study, published Nov. 28 on the pre-print server arXiv, unveil crucial information regarding the properties and stellar content of this cluster.
	Astronomers discover galaxies have bipolar gas outflows reaching far into intergalactic space Astronomers have observed, for the first time in three dimensions, that gas from spiral galaxies is blown upward and downward at high velocity, far out of the galaxy. The observations confirm the prevailing theory of galaxy evolution that says that star-forming galaxies drive intergalactic winds by venting their gas along the poles. The astronomers have published their findings in Nature.
	Astronomers provide first detailed picture of ice in planet-forming disk A Dutch-led international team of astronomers has made the first two-dimensional inventory of ice in a planet-forming disk of dust and gas surrounding a young star. They used the James Webb Space Telescope and have published their findings in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics.
	Black holes are missing in the early universe, and computers are after them As far as the eye can see, galaxies fill the images of the deep universe. What processes determined their shapes, colors and populations of stars? Astronomers think that primordial black holes were the engines of galaxies' growth and transformation, and can explain the cosmic landscape we see now.
	Physics behind unusual behavior of stars' super flares discovered Our sun actively produces solar flares that can impact Earth, with the strongest flares having the capacity to cause blackouts and disrupt communications—potentially on a global scale. While solar flares can be powerful, they are insignificant compared to the thousands of "super flares" observed by NASA's Kepler and TESS missions. "Super flares" are produced by stars that are 100–10,000 times brighter than those on the sun.
	Iran says it sent a capsule capable of carrying animals into orbit as it prepares for human missions Iran said Wednesday it sent a capsule into orbit capable of carrying animals as it prepares for human missions in coming years.
	NASA finds likely cause of OSIRIS-REx parachute deployment sequence NASA's OSIRIS-REx sample return capsule landed under parachute in the Utah desert on Sept. 24, 2023, and safely delivered a cannister of rocks and dust collected from near-Earth asteroid Bennu. Although the delivery was successful, the landing sequence did not go entirely according to plan, with a small parachute called a drogue not deploying as expected.
	NASA's Psyche delivers first images and other data NASA's Psyche spacecraft is on a roll. In the eight weeks since it left Earth on Oct. 13, the orbiter has performed one successful operation after another, powering on scientific instruments, streaming data toward home, and setting a deep-space record with its electric thrusters. The latest achievement: On Monday, Dec. 4, the mission turned on Psyche's twin cameras and retrieved the first images—a milestone called "first light."
	Digging deeper to find life on ocean worlds In February 2023, researchers from around the country gathered at a NASA-sponsored workshop to discuss the latest developments and a roadmap for a cryobot mission concept to drill through the icy crusts of Europa and Enceladus and search for life.

Technology news

	24/7 solar towers could double energy output If you want to improve the output of solar energy systems, why not also run them at night? That's the question researchers in Qatar and Jordan addressed as they successfully devised a system that promises to more than double energy output of current solar power stations.
	Google launches Gemini, upping the stakes in the global AI race Google took its next leap in artificial intelligence Wednesday with the launch of project Gemini, an AI model trained to behave in human-like ways that's likely to intensify the debate about the technology's potential promise and perils.
	Researchers use wood materials to create reliable organic solar cells One of nature's most common organic materials—lignin—can be used to create stable and environmentally friendly organic solar cells. Researchers at Linköping University and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) have now shown that untreated kraft lignin can be used to make solar cells even more environmentally friendly and reliable. The study has been published in the journal Advanced Materials.
	Twitch to shut down in SKorea over 'seriously' high fees US-based streaming platform Twitch said Wednesday it would stop its service in South Korea in February because of "seriously high" network costs, dealing a blow to millions of users in one of the heartlands of e-sports.
	Musk's AI startup seeks to raise $1 bn Elon Musk is seeking to raise a billion dollars for his xAI artificial intelligence company that he hopes will compete with ChatGPT's Open AI.
	Want to know if your data are managed responsibly? Here are 15 questions to help you find out As the volume and variety of data about people increases, so does the number of ideas about how data might be used. Studies show that many people want their data to be used for public benefit.
	Microsoft's ban on third-party controllers on the Xbox excludes some disabled gamers from using the device When it comes to accessibility in gaming, Microsoft takes two steps forward with the Xbox Adaptive Controller, but a giant leap back with its ban on third-party devices.
	Researcher: Your car might be watching you to keep you safe, at the expense of your privacy Depending on which late-model vehicle you own, your car might be watching you—literally and figuratively—as you drive down the road. It's watching you with cameras that monitor the cabin and track where you're looking and with sensors that track your speed, lane position and rate of acceleration.
	Study outlines cost, energy savings of switching from fluorescent lamps to LEDs LED lighting is up to 44% more efficient than 4-foot fluorescent tubes, according to a University of Michigan study.
	The new Tesla Cybertruck is super-fast and bullet-proof—but who is it for? An expert analyzes the design Broadcasting live on X (formerly known as Twitter) last Thursday, Tesla's CEO (and X owner) Elon Musk said that the Tesla Cybertruck is a car of the future "that looks like the future".
	EU seeks agreement on world's first AI law The European Union will seek to thrash out an agreement on sweeping rules to regulate artificial intelligence on Wednesday, following months of difficult negotiations in particular on how to monitor generative AI applications like ChatGPT.
	Record passengers as airline industry recovers from pandemic Airlines should carry a record number of passengers next year as the sector puts the COVID-19 pandemic behind it, the industry's top trade association said Wednesday, although profitability remains a concern.
	Two-system model combines desalination and energy storage Cornell engineers have refined a model that not only cultivates green energy, but also desalinates ocean water for large, drought-stricken coastal populations.
	'We're hitting new limits.' North Carolina quantum computing bullish on a coveted breakthrough When Jungsang Kim came to Duke University in 2004, he wasn't sure he'd live long enough to witness quantum advantage: the elusive moment when a quantum computer outperforms a classical computer to solve a real-world problem.
	Newly developed floating trash interceptor cleans up river To reduce marine debris, which causes serious environmental pollution in the sea, researchers at the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT) have developed a technology for reducing floating debris in rivers.
	Automakers, dealers and shoppers dawdle on EVs despite strong year in US sales growth Despite new electric vehicle market share and sales hitting a record in the U.S. this year, EV growth is starting to slow and fall short of the auto industry's lofty ambitions to transition away from combustion engines.
	High speed rail between LA and Las Vegas gets $3bn boost A proposed high-speed rail line linking Los Angeles with the US gambling and entertainment capital Las Vegas moved closer to reality Tuesday with the announcement of a $3 billion government grant.
	Australian homes can be made climate-ready, reducing bills and emissions: A new report shows how Millions of homes were built before Australia introduced housing energy efficiency standards in 2003. They're leaky. Gaps around windows, doors and between building materials allow air to move in and out. So people tend to compensate, with more heating and cooling. It's costly and damaging for the environment.
	South Africa pioneered plans to transition to renewable energy—what went wrong South Africa's experience in piloting a new type of climate finance vehicle can inform debates about how to fund a just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy.
	UK slams three airlines over greenwashing ads A UK watchdog on Wednesday banned three online adverts from airlines Air France, Etihad Airways and Lufthansa for "misleading" claims over their environmental impact.
	Bank of England will review the risks that AI poses to UK financial stability The Bank of England, which oversees financial stability in the U.K., said Wednesday that it will make an assessment next year about the risks posed by artificial intelligence and machine learning.
	EU proposes three-year delay on UK electric car tariffs Brussels proposed Wednesday a three-year delay on tariffs on the sale of electric vehicles between Britain and the EU that was meant to kick in from January, in a major reversal of its previous position.
	Volkswagen to reduce workforce as it chases profits Volkswagen said Wednesday it would cut its workforce over the coming years as the German auto giant seeks to boost its profitability and reboot a faltering shift to electric cars.
	Steve Jobs wrote a check to Radio Shack in 1976. Now it's up for auction It's a pristine piece of Silicon Valley history—and it comes with a famous autograph.

Chemistry news

	New modular flow platform for improved SuFEx click chemistry Researchers at the Flow Chemistry group of the University of Amsterdam's Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences have developed a modular flow chemistry platform for a safe and efficient execution of SuFEx (Sulfur(VI) Fluoride Exchange) click chemistry.
	New approach to drug discovery: Developing pain medication with fewer side effects People with chronic pain are often dependent on drugs from the class of opioids with sometimes considerable side effects. Accordingly, in recent years the search for safer alternatives has been the focus of new drug discovery.
	Engineering customizable bio-adhesives for personalized medical repair Traditional medical adhesives used in surgical applications often have limited bio-absorbability, high toxicity and a lack of customizability, leading to suboptimal surgical outcomes. Recent advances in synthetic biology offer a promising alternative—tailored biocompatible and biodegradable adhesives designed for specific internal biomedical applications, such as in tissue repair and for surgical glues.
	Neutron scattering study points the way to electrochemical for carbon-neutral ammonia Scientists from Stanford University and the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory are turning air into fertilizer without leaving a carbon footprint. Their discovery could deliver a much-needed solution to help meet worldwide carbon-neutral goals by 2050.
	Scientists develop functional micro-arrays for efficient lithium metal anode interface Lithium (Li) metal anodes, with the highest specific capacity (3,860 mAh g-1) and the lowest redox potential (-3.04 V vs. standard hydrogen electrode), are considered a potential alternative for the next generation high-energy-density lithium batteries. However, the unstable electrolyte–Li metal anode interface has been the biggest obstacle for the practical application of Li metal anode batteries.

Biology news

	Novel stem cell culture system could lead to future therapies for a variety of disorders A new study led by UT Southwestern Medical Center molecular biologists presents a novel culture system to grow both embryonic and extraembryonic stem cells, potentially providing important insights into the genesis of congenital malformations and early developmental disorders.
	A possible way for early life on Earth to survive cosmic radiation A team of biophysicists affiliated with several institutions in China has uncovered via experimentation the means by which early life might have been able to survive cosmic radiation. In their study, reported in the journal Nature Communications, the group conducted experiments with radiation-resistant manganese antioxidants.
	Scientists discover plant hormone that boosts growth by 30% Scientists from NUS and the Singapore Center for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering (SCELSE) have uncovered one of nature's most potent tools in an arsenal to combat today's agricultural challenges: agro-microbials—or agro-chemicals of natural origin—that can enhance the synergy between crops and microbes, and ultimately improve crop yield and productivity.
	New research reveals a fishing threshold for reef resilience Coral reefs are the most biodiverse systems in the sea and central to the life of many coastal human communities. Half a billion people rely on coral reefs for protection from storms, provision of seafood as well as promotion of tourism and recreation.
	Feathered friends can become unlikely helpers for tropical coral reefs facing climate change threat Tropical coral reefs are among our most spectacular ecosystems, yet a rapidly warming planet threatens the future survival of many reefs. However, there may be hope for some tropical reefs in the form of feathered friends.
	Researchers develop grassroots framework for managing environmental commons A team of sustainability scientists at the University of Massachusetts Amhersthave announced in the journal PLOS ONE that they have developed a community-based framework, founded on extensive local and traditional knowledge, to help assess and respond to the kinds of ecological threats that are widely dispersed across a varied landscape and whose solutions are not immediately obvious.
	Bird behavior study finds jays jump in while crows hold out for the treat New research has found that two similar species of birds—both capable of displaying self-control through delayed gratification—behave very differently around their favorite food when they have company.
	Forecasts may help protect marine life a year in advance Marine management tools could be used to help avoid whale entanglements or sea turtle bycatch up to a year in advance, suggests a Nature Communications paper. The findings demonstrate that these tools (which already exist) could be used to forewarn of ecosystem conditions during climate extremes, similar to forecasting the weather.
	New fungus is the oldest disease-causing species found to date The earliest disease-causing fungus has been discovered within the Natural History Museum's fossil collections. The new fungal plant pathogen, Potteromyces asteroxylicola, which is 407-million-years-old, has been named in honor of celebrated Tales of Peter Rabbit author, and fungi enthusiast, Beatrix Potter.
	Researchers discover plant diversity stabilizes soil temperature A new study has revealed a natural solution to mitigate the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events. Researchers from Leipzig University, the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, the German Center for Integrative Biodiversity Research Halle-Jena-Leipzig (iDiv) and other research institutions have discovered that high plant diversity acts as a buffer against fluctuations in soil temperature. This buffer can then be of vital importance to ecosystem processes.
	Study shows exoskeletons of insects become stronger when raised under higher mechanical load Scientists from the Hochschule Bremen (HSB)—City University of Applied Sciences used a centrifuge to show that the exoskeletons of insects become stronger when they are raised under higher mechanical load. This fundamental knowledge is important to better understand the evolution of cuticle, bone and many biological materials.
	Study reveals genes that set humans apart from other primates in cognitive ability An international team led by researchers at the University of Toronto has uncovered over 100 genes that are common to primate brains but have undergone evolutionary divergence only in humans—and which could be a source of our unique cognitive ability.
	Study reshapes understanding of mass extinction in Late Devonian era Diverse and full of sea life, the Earth's Devonian era—taking place more than 370 million years ago—saw the emergence of the first seed-bearing plants, which spread as large forests across the continents of Gondwana and Laurussia.
	Ocean acidification creates legacy of stress for red abalone, study finds Stressful childhoods can affect an individual's adult years and influence future generations. Scientists at the University of California, Davis, found a similar pattern holds true for red abalone exposed as babies, and again as adults, to the stress of ocean acidification.
	A mathematical model connects the evolution of chickens, fish and frogs One of the most enduring, basic questions of life is: How does it happen? For instance, in human development, how do cells self-organize into skin, muscles or bones? How do they form a brain, a finger, a spine?
	Parasitic creature with unique teeth found in forests of Asia: It's a new species In a forest in southern China, a parasitic creature flew through the air. Suddenly, a net enveloped the animal. Scientists looked at their successful catch—and discovered a new species.
	Fruit fly study finds blue light exposure may affect processes related to aging In a study on fruit flies, daily low-intensity blue light exposure (BLE), similar to that experienced daily by billions of humans in the form of LED lighting and device screens, changed flies at the sub-cellular level, affecting processes related to aging and circadian rhythms.
	Environmental monitoring of bacteria can strengthen community preparedness against diseases A variety of potentially disease-causing bacteria exist in the Baltic Sea and in Swedish lakes. Karolina Eriksson, a doctoral student at the Industrial Doctoral School at Umeå University, reveals future health risks for humans in the light of climate change in her thesis.
	Review examines machine learning concepts for microbiologists In a review in Nature Reviews Microbiology, Professor Levi Waldron and colleagues highlight the increasing importance of machine learning in microbiology, where it is used for tasks such as predicting antibiotic resistance and associating human microbiome features with complex host diseases.
	Researcher turns switchgrass into bioplastics Plastic, made in the traditional petroleum-based method, has served its purpose. The near-perfect packaging material has been instrumental in transforming the world's food supply and can be found in nearly every sector of daily life.
	How IRON MAN (IMA) is involved in copper homeostasis in plants Copper (Cu) availability is critical for plant growth and development and for food yield and quality. It is essential for plants to maintain Cu homeostasis. To maintain Cu homeostasis in different tissues and organs, the uptake and transport of Cu must be precisely controlled. IRON MAN (IMA) is a family of small peptides that can bind both iron (Fe) and Cu ions.
	Novel probiotic application method shows promise as a growth promoter for chickens Chicken and eggs are among the most popular sources of high-quality protein in the world. With a growing population, making the production of this key food source sustainable is vital.
	Study identifies organic alternative for fighting cattle-pestering flies When cattle are fighting flies in the summer, they gather in tight bunches, leading them to eat less while experiencing more stress and discomfort. Beef producers have limited options for controlling the flies that pester their cattle. Moreover, existing insecticides are losing their effectiveness as insects develop resistance to repeated use.
	Eight-eyed cave creature with unique genitalia discovered as new species in China As light filtered into a cave in southeastern China, an eight-eyed creature moved around underneath a rock. Despite its small size, the animal caught the attention of nearby scientists. It turned out to be a new species.
	Feds propose shooting one owl to save another in Pacific Northwest The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to enlist shooters to kill more than 500,000 barred owls over the next 30 years in the Pacific Northwest to preserve habitat for northern spotted owls, a protected species.
	Scientists develop 'sexy_markers,' a bioinformatics tool that reveals white shark gender A new study led by CSIRO, Australia's national science agency, has revealed white shark gender is determined by X and Y sex chromosomes.
	Nonalcoholic beer at higher risk for foodborne pathogens, says study The lack of alcohol in nonalcoholic or low-alcohol beer—particularly during manufacturing, storage and pouring—may prompt conditions ripe for foodborne pathogen growth, according to a new Cornell study.
	Review: PROTACs targeting epigenetic proteins The field of epigenetics focuses on alterations in gene function that are inherited without changes in the DNA sequence, including histone modifications, post-translational modifications of amino acids, and covalent modifications of DNA bases. These alteration pathways modulate the transformation of genotypes into specific phenotypes.

Medicine and Health news

	When do brains grow up? Research shows mouse and primate brains mature at same pace An Argonne study has revealed that short-lived mice and longer-living primates develop brain synapses on the exact same timeline, challenging assumptions about disease and aging. What does this mean for humans—and yesterday's research?
	Could a monthly treatment prevent fentanyl overdoses? Scientists are working on it Scientists have developed an antibody treatment that shows promise in blocking the potentially deadly effects of fentanyl for nearly a month, raising hopes for a new tool to combat overdoses.
	New study concludes finding cure for malaria may be even more challenging than thought Researchers who have studied malaria for decades, hoping to find a cure, long thought they'd identified a type of blood that seemed to defend against the disease.
	Blood hormone levels identify which post-menopausal women will benefit most from a medication to prevent breast cancer Research led by Queen Mary University of London's Wolfson Institute of Population Health has found that hormone levels, measured through blood tests, are an important indicator of whether women will benefit from recently licensed medication for the prevention of breast cancer.
	Study finds sleep can improve memory retention but can also imprint false memories A team of psychologists at the University of York, in the U.K., has found via experimentation that sleeping after studying can consolidate memories. But, as they note in their paper published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, sleep can also sometimes lead to the creation of false memories.
	Researchers show that an influx of water and salts propel immune cells through the body Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute, working with Imperial College London, King's College London and University of Cambridge, have shown that an influx of water and ions into immune cells allows them to migrate to where they're needed in the body.
	How drugs can target the thick 'scar tissue' of pancreatic cancer Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers—only about one in eight patients survives five years after diagnosis. Those dismal statistics are in part due to the thick, nearly impenetrable wall of fibrosis, or scar tissue, that surrounds most pancreatic tumors and makes it hard for drugs to access and destroy the cancer cells.
	World-first human trial finds arthritis drug can suppress progression of type 1 diabetes Researchers at St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research (SVI) in Melbourne have shown that a commonly prescribed rheumatoid arthritis drug can suppress the progression of type 1 diabetes.
	Fungus-fighting protein could help overcome severe autoimmune disease and cancer A protein in the immune system programmed to protect the body from fungal infections is also responsible for exacerbating the severity of certain autoimmune diseases such as irritable bowel disease (IBS), type 1 diabetes, eczema and other chronic disorders, new research from The Australian National University (ANU) has found.
	Light therapy may improve symptoms of Alzheimer's disease Light therapy leads to significant improvements in sleep and psycho-behavioral symptoms for patients with Alzheimer's disease, according to a new study published in PLOS ONE by Qinghui Meng of Weifang Medical University, China, and colleagues.
	More than four hours of daily smartphone use associated with health risks for adolescents In a new study of more than 50,000 Korean adolescents, those who used a smartphone for more than four hours per day had higher rates of adverse mental health and substance use. Jin-Hwa Moon and Jong Ho Cha of Hanyang University Medical Center, Korea, and colleagues present these findings in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on December 6, 2023.
	New strategy to protect bones during cancer treatment uses unique drug delivery system Cancer patients who receive radiation during their treatment—and about half do—may face a lesser-known challenge: bone loss. The vital treatment for cancers of the head and neck, breast, cervix, prostate, and even eyes can harm the cells that keep bones strong.
	Comparable memory strategies found in birds and humans Working memory is a crucial element of higher cognition in both primates—which include humans—and corvids. In their studies, with the help of two jackdaws, researchers at Ruhr University Bochum have now discovered remarkable parallels in the memory optimization of primates and corvids.
	First map of human limb development reveals unexpected growth processes and explains syndromes found at birth Human fingers and toes do not grow outward; instead, they form from within a larger foundational bud, as intervening cells recede to reveal the digits beneath. This is among many processes captured for the first time as scientists unveil a spatial cell atlas of the entire developing human limb, resolved in space and time.
	New protein linked to early-onset dementia identified Most neurodegenerative diseases, including dementias, involve proteins aggregating into filaments called amyloids. In most of these diseases, researchers have identified the proteins that aggregate, allowing them to target these proteins for diagnostic tests and treatments.
	Allergy medicine may help treat lung cancer, research suggests Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have identified an allergy pathway that, when blocked, unleashes antitumor immunity in mouse models of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
	Researchers redesign future mRNA therapeutics to prevent potentially harmful immune responses Researchers have discovered that misreading of therapeutic mRNAs by the cell's decoding machinery can cause an unintended immune response in the body. They have identified the sequence within the mRNA that causes this to occur and found a way to prevent 'off-target' immune responses to enable the safer design of future mRNA therapeutics.
	Researchers find a way to predict which of our organs will fail first Like any typical car or house or society, the pace at which parts of our bodies fall apart varies from part to part. A study of 5,678 people, led by Stanford Medicine investigators, has shown that our organs age at different rates—and when an organ's age is especially advanced in comparison with its counterpart in other people of the same age, the person carrying it is at heightened risk both for diseases associated with that organ and for dying.
	Alone but not lonely: How solitude boosts well-being New research from the University of Reading sheds light on the complex relationship between time spent alone and mental health. The study, published in Scientific Reports, reveals that solitude has both benefits and costs for well-being.
	Map of disease-causing mutations in neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer revealed Researchers now understand the functional impact of thousands of genetic changes within the DDX3X gene. This could lead to enhanced diagnosis and treatment of various neurodevelopmental disorders and cancers.
	Novel drug delivery system developed for Gouteng compound for Alzheimer's disease treatment A research team led by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) has developed a novel drug delivery system for Alzheimer's disease (AD). The researchers have engineered exosomes, extracellular vesicles released by cells, to effectively carry the bioactive compound Corynoxine-B extracted from the Chinese herbal medicine Gouteng to the brain of mice with AD.
	Statins protect against heart disease in high-risk groups, new studies find Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital, a founding member of the Mass General Brigham health care system, have found that statins, the most prescribed class of drugs to treat high cholesterol, reduced the risk of heart attack and stroke among two groups at high risk for heart disease: older adults with chronic kidney disease and those with and without frailty.
	Accelerating drug development for lung diseases: New insights from single-cell genomics Drug development for lung diseases is complicated. Most clinical trials that test novel drugs fail due to the fact that laboratory models cannot accurately replicate human physiology.
	Multiple sclerosis: New study highlights five warning signs of the disease What if the biological mechanisms that cause multiple sclerosis were triggered years before clinical diagnosis? This is what a team at Paris Brain Institute suggests in a new study published in Neurology.
	Patients of color more often brace for unfair treatment in health care, survey finds A trip to the doctor's office comes with a bit of preparation for most, maybe even an internal pep talk to prepare for being told to get more exercise or calm a simmering fear of needles.
	Getting families to agree to organ donation: Cash payments, funeral benefits, or no incentives? Most countries experience substantial shortages of available organs for transplantation. Technological advancements and aging populations further expand the transplant waitlist every year.
	New potential drug suppresses chemotherapy-induced pain Oncode Investigator Mario van der Stelt and his lab discovered a potential new drug that suppresses chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. The results are published in Nature Communications.
	Family language tied to hospitalization rates of feverish babies Babies of parents who speak a language other than English may be more likely to be hospitalized unnecessarily when visiting the emergency department for high fevers, according to a recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics.
	Case study finds calcium channel blockers effective for pregnant patient with vasospastic angina A woman with hopes to conceive was diagnosed with severe vasospastic angina (VSA); however, she was able to carry a healthy baby to full term without angina attacks after starting treatment of a calcium channel blocker, according to a case published in a special cardio-obstetrics issue of JACC: Case Reports.
	Zinc shows promise as surprising emerging treatment for vaginal yeast infections New research could one day pave the way for the treatment of vaginal yeast infections, by shedding new light on how microbes in the body absorb zinc.
	PFAS exposure linked to decreased bone health in adolescents and young adults Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), manufactured chemicals used in products such as food packaging and cosmetics, can lead to reproductive problems, increased cancer risk and other health issues. A growing body of research has also linked the chemicals to lower bone mineral density, which can lead to osteoporosis and other bone diseases. But most of those studies have focused on older, non-Hispanic white participants and only collected data at a single point in time.
	Study finds individuals with acne face social and professional stigma A new study highlights how stigmatizing attitudes about individuals with acne may influence social and professional perceptions. Led by investigators from Brigham and Women's Hospital, the study found that individuals with acne face stigmatizing attitudes from the general public in professional and social scenarios.
	Link between sexually transmitted infection and advanced prostate cancer debunked A University of Hawai'i Cancer Center study challenges existing research notions about the potential link between trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, and advanced prostate cancer. The study was recently published in the journal Cancers.
	Hormonal contraceptive users process stress differently at the molecular and psychological level, finds study A new UCLA Health study is shedding light on how using hormonal contraceptive pills may affect women's responses to stress and their risk for inflammation-related illnesses.
	Brain alteration due the effects of early negative life events may predict depressive symptoms later in life New research published in JCCP Advances indicates that experiencing negative life events (NLE) during childhood is linked with a higher risk of developing symptoms of depression during young adulthood. Thinning of the orbitofrontal cortex, a region in the brain that affects emotion, during adolescence was also associated with increased depressive symptoms later in life.
	Q&A: Examining public health measures and striving for equality among vulnerable communities Over the course of the pandemic, COVID-19 hit Black communities and communities of color particularly hard. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black, Hispanic, American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and other Pacific Islander people are about twice as likely to die from COVID-19 as white people. Older adults and young children are also more vulnerable to adverse COVID effects.
	Glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup weedkiller, is showing up in pregnant women living near farm fields Living near farmland can significantly increase people's exposure to glyphosate, the active ingredient in the widely used herbicide Roundup, new research shows. This chemical has been connected to health concerns, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma and a higher risk of preterm birth.
	How electroconvulsive therapy heals the brain—new insights into ECT for depression When most people hear about electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT, it typically conjures terrifying images of cruel, outdated and pseudo-medical procedures. Formerly known as electroshock therapy, this perception of ECT as dangerous and ineffective has been reinforced in pop culture for decades—think the 1962 novel-turned-Oscar-winning film "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," where an unruly patient is subjected to ECT as punishment by a tyrannical nurse.
	Western wildfires reversed decades of gains from air pollution-fighting measures: Study The increasing number and intensity of wildfires in the Western U.S. are overshadowing other achievements at reducing emissions, aggravating air pollution and increasing disease and mortality, according to a new study led by University of Maryland researchers.
	Brain stimulation may benefit individuals with schizophrenia clinical trial finds Most people with schizophrenia have extensive impairment of memory, including prospective memory, which is the ability to remember to perform future activities. Results from a randomized clinical trial published in Neuropsychopharmacology Reports indicate that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive method that uses alternating magnetic fields to induce an electric current in the underlying brain tissue, may help ameliorate certain aspects of prospective memory in individuals with schizophrenia.
	Veterans experiencing housing instability may face an elevated risk of developing dementia In a recent study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, Veterans with housing instability were 53% more likely to receive a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia (ADRD) than those with stable housing.
	Preshaped, 4D microcoils for personalized endovascular embolization A research team led by Prof. Xu Tiantian from the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the collaborators, introduced 4D ultraviolet (UV)-curable organogel microcoils with adaptive shapes for personalized embolization. The study was published in Advanced Materials.
	Anti-obesity medications may affect survival in people with knee or hip osteoarthritis New research published in Arthritis & Rheumatology suggests that for people overweight or with obesity who also have knee or hip osteoarthritis, a slow-to-moderate—but not fast—rate of weight loss caused by anti-obesity medications may lower their risk of premature death.
	Study identifies factors associated with long-term use of FDA-approved anti-obesity medications A Cleveland Clinic study looked at the long-term use of anti-obesity medications and found that only 19% of the study participants continued to use the medications one year after their initial prescriptions. Participants were more likely to continue to get their prescription filled in the long term if they received more effective anti-obesity medications and experienced more significant weight loss at six months.
	More than a third of people don't know they have dementia—what to do if you suspect your partner has the condition Around 36% of people in England with dementia are unaware they have the condition, according to a new report from the Dementia Commission.
	Colorectal screening rates do not differ by 10-year life expectancy in seniors Personalized colorectal cancer (CRC) screening based on individual life expectancy may increase the value of CRC screening programs, according to a study published online Oct. 27 in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.
	Screen time tied to mental health problems in kindergarten children Screen time is associated with mental health problems in children aged 3–6 years, according to a study published online Dec. 4 in JAMA Pediatrics.
	2010 to 2020 saw disparities in surgeon supply widen in the United States Disparities in surgeon supply between rural and urban counties and between socially vulnerable and other counties widened in the United States from 2010 to 2020, according to a research letter published online Nov. 29 in JAMA Surgery.
	As one spouse's blood pressure rises, so does the other's: Study In sickness and in health—and in blood pressure, too? A new international study finds that if your blood pressure rises with time, your spouse's might, also.
	Ischemic strokes less severe with left atrial appendage closure in A-fib For patients with atrial fibrillation, ischemic strokes (IS) are less often fatal or disabling with left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) prophylaxis than with direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) prophylaxis, according to a study published online Nov. 22 in JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology.
	New weight-loss drug Zepbound is now available, company says The newly approved weight-loss medication known as Zepbound is now available for patients to take, drug maker Eli Lilly announced Tuesday.
	Tucatinib plus trastuzumab emtansine may benefit patients with advanced or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer A combination of two HER2-targeted drugs, tucatinib (Tukysa) and trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla, T-DM1), extended progression-free survival among patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, compared with T-DM1 alone, according to results from the HER2CLIMB-02 trial presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, held December 5–9, 2023.
	Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may help some breast cancer patients skip regional nodal irradiation For patients whose breast cancer converted from lymph node-positive to lymph node-negative disease after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, skipping adjuvant regional nodal irradiation (RNI) did not increase the risk of disease recurrence or death five years after surgery, according to results from the NRG Oncology/NSABP B-51/RTOG 1304 clinical trial presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, held December 5–9, 2023.
	Study finds cilostazol is well tolerated but doesn't prevent cognitive decline A recent study demonstrated the safety of cilostazol in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), but did not demonstrate any efficacy in preventing disease progression. However, after administration of cilostazol, the blood concentrations of the albumin and β-amyloid complex (albumin-Aβ complex) increased in the treated patients compared with those receiving placebo.
	Q&A: Psychology professor discusses the neuroscience behind giving and receiving gifts The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is upon us and part of the holiday cheer revolves around exchanging gifts.
	Dengue fever is on the rise in Mali with more than 20 deaths, health director says Authorities say dengue fever is on the rise in Mali, posing a new threat to the West African nation struggling with extremist attacks and political turbulence.
	Research shows tennis ball concussions are rare, but possible It's well-known that playing football and soccer can cause concussions and other head injuries. But how fast would a tennis ball need to be traveling to possibly cause traumatic brain injury?
	Combined antibiotics more effective against Lyme disease: Study Researchers at Tulane University have found that a combination of antibiotics is more effective in treating Lyme disease than the commonly prescribed course of one single antibiotic. This finding, published in Frontiers in Microbiology, could pave the way for improved Lyme disease treatments, particularly in persistent cases that have not responded to standard antibiotic treatment.
	Model uses sociodemographic factors to predict aromatase inhibitor non-adherence risk A new risk model uses baseline sociodemographic and financial measures to predict which patients prescribed long-term therapy with aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer are at significantly higher risk of stopping that therapy early (non-adherence).
	Psychological arguments helped Argentines win abortion rights, scholar says In Argentina, perhaps the most psychoanalyzed country in the world, the rhetoric of psychology proved important in the push for a 2020 federal law that for the first time guaranteed free and safe access to abortion through 14 weeks of pregnancy.
	Study paints a new picture of colon development in mammals University of Oregon researchers are filling in gaps in our understanding of the formation and growth the colon, a crucial part of the digestive system, by being among the first to apply modern molecular biology tools to the study.
	New findings reveal important insights into age-related nonresolving inflammation Aging is associated with chronic, nonresolving inflammation, or "inflammaging," that can lead to tissue dysfunction. New findings reported in The American Journal of Pathology reveal insights into the cellular programs and factors that promote the resolution of inflammation during aging. These findings may lead to the development of new strategies to limit age-related organ decline.
	Fascicle gearing dynamics: Unveiling 3D rotation effects in muscle elongation Detailed insights into muscle and tendon movement mechanisms during stretching are essential to improve our overall mobility and flexibility. It is not only important for optimum athletic performance, but also crucial for preventing musculoskeletal injuries. When an individual stretches, 50% to 70% of the elongation is absorbed into the muscle belly, i.e., the fleshy part of the muscle containing most fibers.
	Guidance on EHR-based public health surveillance for chronic diseases As hospitalizations due to chronic conditions increase across the United States, attention is focusing on using data collected in electronic health records (EHRs) by health care systems to enable public health departments to gain an understanding of the incidence and prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, asthma, obesity and other chronic diseases with the ultimate goal of improving disease outcomes.
	Studies suggest novel targeted therapies may benefit patients with metastatic HR+/ HER2- breast cancer Two studies led by researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center demonstrated clinical benefit from novel targeted therapies, which may offer new treatment options for patients with metastatic hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) breast cancer. The data will be shared in oral presentations today at the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS).
	Abortion opponents push state lawmakers to promote unproven 'abortion reversal' Anti-abortion organizations are pushing state lawmakers to promote a controversial and unproven "abortion reversal" treatment—flouting the objections of medical professionals who point out it is not supported by science.
	Clinical trial highlights possible treatment for anemia in myelodysplastic neoplasms In patients affected by myelodysplastic neoplasms, the body does not produce enough functional blood cells. Patients suffer from anemia—a lack of red blood cells and hemoglobin—which can progress to acute leukemia. Imetelstat, a new agent beyond the current standard of care, may help to avoid blood transfusions, which can be a burden for MDS patients, especially over a long period of time.
	Majority of voters in American Heartland do not plan to get latest COVID vaccine, finds survey Most voters (57%) in 22 states in the American Heartland say they won't get the new COVID-19 vaccine this year. This finding from 12 traditional Midwestern states and 10 surrounding ones was significantly higher than the national average of 51%, in state and national surveys conducted this fall by Emerson College Polling.
	Why dogs are good for your health People with dogs know the benefits of pet ownership. The unconditional love, trust and loyalty shown by your canine companions, coupled with their unbridled enthusiasm on your return home each day, is hard to put into words.
	Abortion is now legal but still hard to access across Australia. Doctors are both the problem and the solution Abortion is now fully legal in every jurisdiction in Australia. Western Australia became the last state to decriminalize it just two months ago, in September 2023. And the Australian population is solidly pro-choice: a 2021 study found 76% of Australians support access to abortion.
	It's extremely hot and I'm feeling weak and dizzy. Could I have heat stroke? Australia is braced for a hot, dry summer. El Niño is back, and this year it will occur alongside an Indian Ocean dipole, a climate pattern which will further amplify this hot and dry effect.
	YBX1 as a key regulator of mitochondrial pyruvate uptake Cancer metastasis is a crucial area in cancer research that directly affects patient survival and treatment outcomes. Cancer cells often undergo adaptive metabolic changes during metastasis from in situ to distant organs to overcome energy deprivation and achieve rapid proliferation in the changed environment.
	Do you need more vitamin D in the winter? Vitamin D is a nutrient your body needs to keep your bones healthy and strong. It also has properties that support your immune system and neuromuscular health.
	UK research highlights ongoing impact of COVID-19 on immunocompromised people Research led by the University of Liverpool's Department of Politics launched today (Wednesday 6 December) has highlighted the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on more than a million immunocompromised people across the U.K.
	Early investment key to ending disadvantage, says New Zealand report With intergenerational disadvantage resulting in up to 30% of Aotearoa New Zealand children not having their basic needs met, independent think tank Koi Tū: The Center for Informed Futures is calling for the country's investment in the earliest life stages to be stepped up and well implemented.

Other Sciences news

	Baboons in captivity in Ancient Egypt: Collection of mummies offers insights Baboons were raised in captivity before being mummified in Ancient Egyptian sites, according to a study published December 6, 2023 in the open-access journal PLOS ONE by Wim Van Neer of the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Belgium and colleagues.
	Companies are missing their climate goals with misaligned behavior, says study The emissions pathways of most companies in high-emitting sectors are not aligned with the climate targets of the Paris Agreement. To better contribute to national and global sustainability efforts, corporate behavior must change. This is the main message of a new study by Imperial College Business School published in Nature Communications.
	Exploring acoustic design for better, quieter prisons Prisons are typically noisy environments, filled with clanking metal bars and echoing concrete surfaces. This level of constant noise is harmful to both prisoners and staff, but there are few guidelines for designing better, quieter facilities.
	Viewpoint: Fact-bombing by experts doesn't change hearts and minds, but good science communication can A stir went through the Australian science communication community last week, caused by an article with the headline Science communicators need to stop telling everybody the universe is a meaningless void. In meetings and online back channels we cried "not ALL science communicators!"
	Opinion: Education should look to the way artists are embracing AI, instead of turning its back on the technology Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to make a major impact on many sectors of society over the coming decades. Some of these effects may be positive, others less so.
	'Just the rich can do it': Research shows how immigration income requirements devastate families The government has announced a host of new restrictions aimed at cutting net migration to the UK. Headline announcements include increasing the salary requirements for skilled foreign workers from £26,200 to £38,700, and banning health and care workers from bringing family dependents to the UK.
	Real connections trump virtual gatherings: The magic of in-person events From virtual dance parties and raves to virtual happy hours and potlucks—online gatherings reached new heights during COVID-19, helping individuals stay connected during lockdowns.
	Toxic comments associated with reduced activity of volunteer editors on Wikipedia A study links hostility on Wikipedia to lost productivity on the site. Wikipedia, the largest reference work ever created, is written and edited by tens of thousands of volunteers, known as Wikipedians. Despite the fact that anyone can edit any page, studies show that Wikipedia is generally a reliable source of information.
	Helping non-clinical staff identify problematic sexual behaviors among children Identifying unusual and potentially harmful behaviors in children is vital to providing appropriate interventions, according to Penn State researchers. A Penn State research team partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to develop an easy-to-use tool to help non-clinically trained staff members, such as classroom aids, lunchroom workers and teachers, identify problematic sexual behaviors (PSBs) so that they can be more immediately addressed.
	Do boycotts against McDonalds and Starbucks work? They can, just not for the reason you might think What do Starbucks, McDonald's, Target and Amazon have in common, other than being some of the biggest corporations in the world?
	Study: Unhealthy sleep assimilation among immigrants may be correlated with labor market Upon their arrival in a foreign country, immigrants tend to be healthier than natives, but their advantage erodes with time, despite improvements in earnings and socio-economic status. A new study published in the European Sociological Review by Francesco Billari (a demographer at Bocconi Department of Social and Political sciences, as well as the University's Rector), with Osea Giuntella, Fabrizio Mazzonna, and Luca Stella, documents that the health trajectory is strongly associated to the evolution of sleeping behavior.
	Study shows diverse college classrooms linked to better STEM learning outcomes for all students Students achieve better grades in college science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) courses when those classrooms have higher numbers of underrepresented racial-minority and first-generation college students, according to new research published in AERA Open.
	Stereotypes of Indigenous people slower to change than labels, study suggests Many non-Indigenous Canadians may have a ways to go in shedding negative stereotypes of Indigenous people, according to a recent study by a University of Alberta master's student in psychology.
	Do terrorist attacks and mass shootings make big companies more 'honest'? Terrorist attacks and mass shootings are devastating for the people and communities they affect. These events impact our society in many ways, including perhaps unexpectedly, by changing how big companies calculate and report their earnings.
	Study shows how it's possible to phase out fossil fuels without sacrificing electoral popularity A new study by UCL researchers shows how it's possible to phase out fossil fuels without sacrificing electoral popularity—even in coal mining regions.
	Database expands to document police uses of lethal force across US The Cline Center for Advanced Social Research and an interdisciplinary team of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign experts have expanded upon their statewide registry on the use of lethal force by police officers in the state of Illinois to include national data.

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