Science X Newsletter Thu, Jan 11

Dear ,

Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for January 11, 2024:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

NGC 2403 XMM4 is a super-Eddington neutron star, study finds

A three-step mechanism explaining ultraviolet-induced CO desorption from CO ice

Scientists tame chaotic protein fueling 75% of cancers

Generative artificial intelligence models effectively highlight social determinants of health in doctors' notes

Watching others visibly dislike vegetables might make onlookers dislike them, too

Transparent brain implant can read deep neural activity from the surface

Ancient cities provide key datasets for urban planning, policy and predictions in the Anthropocene

First prehistoric person with Turner syndrome identified from ancient DNA

The first 3D map of magnetic fields in our galaxy explains star-forming regions

Tidal disruption events and what they can reveal about black holes and stars in distant galaxies

Lab-grown retinas explain why people see colors dogs can't

New dinosaur species may be closest known relative of Tyrannosaurus rex

Research shows deadly brain cancer can mimic healthy neurons

Oldest known fossilized skin is 21 million years older than previous examples

Key mechanisms in the synapses of the cerebellum unraveled

Nanotechnology news

	Transparent brain implant can read deep neural activity from the surface Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a neural implant that provides information about activity deep inside the brain while sitting on its surface. The implant is made up of a thin, transparent and flexible polymer strip that is packed with a dense array of graphene electrodes. The technology, tested in transgenic mice, brings the researchers a step closer to building a minimally invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) that provides high-resolution data about deep neural activity by using recordings from the brain surface.
	Graphene-based implantable technology paves way for high-precision therapeutic applications Years of research has led to the development of EGNITE (Engineered Graphene for Neural Interfaces), a novel class of flexible, high-resolution, high-precision graphene-based implantable neurotechnology.
	Transferring laser-induced graphene at extremely low temperatures for ultrathin bioelectronics A recent study published in Nature Electronics discusses stretchable graphene–hydrogel interfaces for wearable and implantable bioelectronics.

Physics news

	Researchers use spinning metasurfaces to craft compact thermal imaging system Researchers have developed a new technology that uses meta-optical devices to perform thermal imaging. The approach provides richer information about imaged objects, which could broaden the use of thermal imaging in fields such as autonomous navigation, security, thermography, medical imaging and remote sensing.
	Ultra-short laser flashes on demand: Controllable light pulse pairs from a single-fiber laser In an innovative approach to controlling ultrashort laser flashes, researchers from the Universities of Bayreuth and Konstanz are using soliton physics and two pulse combs within a single laser. The method has the potential to drastically speed up and simplify laser applications.
	Research offers insights into the metal-to-insulator transition without breaking symmetry Metal-to-insulator transition—a process that turns materials from a conductor to an insulator—has been a crucial process behind microelectronic switches, nonvolatile memory, and neuromorphic computing materials. In many cases, this transition is accompanied by drastic changes in the electronic or structural symmetry of the material, which can bring about other unintended property changes to the material. It is therefore desired to realize such a transition without breaking the symmetry of the materials.
	Generating stable qubits at room temperature A group of researchers reports that they have achieved quantum coherence at room temperature, which is the ability of a quantum system to maintain a well-defined state over time without getting affected by surrounding disturbances
	Using 'Kerr solitons' to boost the power of transmission electron microscopes When light goes through a material, it often behaves in unpredictable ways. This phenomenon is the subject of an entire field of study called "nonlinear optics," which is now integral to technological and scientific advances from laser development and optical frequency metrology, to gravitational wave astronomy and quantum information science.
	Thin film reveals origins of pre-superconducting phase RIKEN physicists have found an ideal platform for exploring the behavior of electrons in a material as it approaches superconductivity. This could help to develop new superconductors that operate at more convenient temperatures than existing ones. The study is published in the journal Physical Review B.
	First direct imaging of tiny noble gas clusters at room temperature For the first time, a research team has succeeded in stabilizing and directly imaging small clusters of noble gas atoms at room temperature. This achievement opens exciting possibilities for condensed matter physics and applications in quantum information technology.
	Exciplex route to white organic light emitting diodes: The role of a spacer layer Organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) have matured to commercial level. Yet, their widespread market adoption is hindered due to high costs and complicated device architecture. Researchers are actively exploring innovative device engineering strategies to circumvent these issues.
	Tahoe avalanche: What causes seemingly safe snow slopes to collapse? A physicist and avid skier explains An avalanche swept up skiers at Lake Tahoe's largest ski resort on Jan. 10, 2024, as a 150-foot-wide sheet of snow slid down a mountain slope into a pile 10 feet deep. One person died in the avalanche, and three others were rescued, according to the Placer County Sheriff's Office in Auburn, California. The slide happened in steep terrain near the KT-22 chairlift, which had just opened for the season that morning.
	How magnetization direction can be controlled using strain in an interfacial multiferroic material Controlling the direction of magnetization using low electric field is necessary for developing efficient spintronic devices. In spintronics, properties of an electron's spin or magnetic moment are used to store information. The electron spins can be manipulated by straining orbital magnetic moments to create a high-performance magnetoelectric effect.
	Review covers optical aspects of quantitative photoacoustic tomography Quantitative photoacoustic tomography (QPAT) is a medical imaging technique that combines laser-induced photoacoustic signals and ultrasound detection to create detailed three-dimensional images of biological tissues. The process involves irradiating biological tissues with short laser pulses. These pulses are absorbed by light-absorbing molecules (chromophores) within the tissues, leading to rapid heating and the generation of ultrasonic waves or acoustic signals.
	Focused ion beam technology: A single tool for a wide range of applications Processing materials on the nanoscale, producing prototypes for microelectronics or analyzing biological samples: The range of applications for finely focused ion beams is huge. Experts from the EU collaboration FIT4NANO have now reviewed the many options and developed a roadmap for the future.
	Image: Micro-world within an atomic clock What looks like an aerial shot of an alien landscape is actually a scanning electron microscope view of a test glass surface, acquired as part of a project to improve the lifetime of spaceborne atomic clocks, found at the heart of navigation satellites. Each sharp plasma-etched feature seen here is smaller than 10 micrometers—a hundredth of a millimeter—across.

Earth news

	Ancient cities provide key datasets for urban planning, policy and predictions in the Anthropocene Cities play a key role in climate change and biodiversity and are one of the most recognizable features of the Anthropocene. They also accelerate innovation and shape social networks, while perpetuating and intensifying inequalities. Today over half of all humanity lives in cities, a threshold which will rise to nearly 70% by the mid-21st century. Yet despite their importance for the Anthropocene, cities are not a recent phenomenon.
	Biomaterials contribute greatly to reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but are not yet climate neutral, finds study On average, bio-based products emit 45% less greenhouse gas emissions than the fossil materials they replace, according to research conducted by Radboud University, published in Nature Communications. At the same time, there is a large variation between individual bio-based products and more efforts are required to achieve climate neutrality. Additionally, biomaterials may have less favorable environmental impacts in other areas.
	The first assessment of toxic heavy metal pollution in the Southern Hemisphere over the last 2,000 years Human activity, from burning fossil fuels and fireplaces to the contaminated dust produced by mining, alters Earth's atmosphere in countless ways. Records of these impacts over time are preserved in everlasting polar ice that serves as a sort of time capsule, allowing scientists and historians to link Earth's history with that of human societies. In a new study, ice cores from Antarctica show that lead and other toxic heavy metals linked to mining activities polluted the Southern Hemisphere as early as the 13th century.
	Chasing the light: Study finds new clues about warming in the Arctic The Arctic, Earth's icy crown, is experiencing a climate crisis like no other. It's heating up at a furious pace—four times faster than the rest of our planet. Sandia researchers are pulling back the curtain on the reduction of sunlight reflectivity, or albedo, which is supercharging the Arctic's warming.
	Ocean temperatures helped make 2023 the hottest year ever recorded A multi-national team of scientists (China, U.S., New Zealand, Italy, and France) analyzes the temperature of the Earth annually. These scientists have found a fever that increases every year: For the past decade, each year has been hotter than the prior year in the ocean, and there are other changes in the ocean that also matter.
	Extreme UK flood levels are happening much more often than they used to, analysis shows Heavy rain across southern Britain meant that most rivers in England swelled at the beginning of 2024, prompting widespread flooding.
	Global heating may breach 1.5°C in 2024—here's what that could look like It's official: 2023 was Earth's hottest year ever recorded, beating the previous record set in 2016 by a huge margin. Last year was also the first in which the world was close to 1.5°C (1.48°C) hotter than the pre-industrial average (1850-1900). We are brushing against the threshold scientists urged us to limit long-term warming to.
	Glaciers rise, fall and melt with tides Glaciers that extend off the edges of landmasses move much more than scientists anticipated, R. Gadi and colleagues have found. The boundary between the grounded part of a glacier and the point at which the glacier extends past the landmass to float in water is called the grounding line or, because this boundary can be wide and amorphous, the grounding zone.
	Carbon dioxide pipelines demystified: Balancing potentials, pitfalls for a sustainable future A recent University of Houston white paper, titled "Carbon Dioxide Pipelines: Role in Responding to Carbon Emissions," spotlights the indispensable role of carbon dioxide pipelines in advancing carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) systems worldwide. The paper delves into the economic and logistical advantages that pipelines offer in the transportation of carbon dioxide, emphasizing their crucial perspective in the global effort to address carbon emissions and help achieve a net-zero future.
	More aerosol particles than thought are forming over Siberia, finds study Aerosol particles play a key role in cooling the planet. They can either directly affect how much sunlight ends up on the surface of the Earth or indirectly through cloud formation, to which they contribute. New particles form from a variety of gas molecules, and these particles form everywhere on the planet.
	A guide on how to use climate data to inform human adaptation A framework for combining climate and social data could help scientists better support climate change adaptation ahead of future weather-related disasters.
	Protecting Alaska's wilderness and the Indigenous way of life is critical to a green future, says advocate "Alaska is America's natural resource warehouse." That is what Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy told then-President Donald Trump in 2018. But our home is far more than storage for the next fad of consumer desires in the Lower 48 states. In Alaska, we are facing an onslaught of proposed projects that threaten to destroy our way of life. Perhaps the most concerning of these is the proposed Ambler industrial mining road.
	Magnitude 6.4 earthquake shakes parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan but no damage is reported A magnitude 6.4 earthquake shook parts of Pakistan and neighboring Afghanistan on Thursday, sending panicked residents fleeing from their homes and offices and frightening people in remote villages, Pakistani officials and the U.S. Geological Survey said.
	Researcher: Healthy cities aren't a question of boring or exciting buildings but about creating better public space The US developers of a 300-ft glowing orb, set to be built in the middle of Stratford, east London, and accommodate upwards of 21,500 concert goers, have withdrawn their planning application.

Astronomy and Space news

	NGC 2403 XMM4 is a super-Eddington neutron star, study finds By analyzing the data from various space telescopes, astronomers have performed a detailed study of an ultraluminous X-ray source known as NGC 2403 XMM4. Results of the study, published January 5 in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society journal, indicate that this source is a neutron star accreting at super-Eddington rates.
	A three-step mechanism explaining ultraviolet-induced CO desorption from CO ice The desorption of CO ice induced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a phenomenon that occurs in some cold parts of the universe, which has often also been replicated in laboratory settings. While this phenomenon is now well-documented, the molecular mechanisms underpinning it are yet to be fully uncovered.
	The first 3D map of magnetic fields in our galaxy explains star-forming regions A team of astronomers including those from the University of Tokyo have created the first-ever map of magnetic field structures within a spiral arm of our Milky Way galaxy. Previous studies on galactic magnetic fields only gave a very general picture, but the new study reveals that magnetic fields in the spiral arms of our galaxy break away from this general picture significantly and are tilted away from the galactic average by a high degree.
	Tidal disruption events and what they can reveal about black holes and stars in distant galaxies At the center of most large galaxies lives a supermassive black hole (SMBH). The Milky Way has Sagittarius A*, a mostly dormant SMBH whose mass is around 4.3 million times that of the sun. But if you look deeper into the universe, there are vastly larger SMBHs with masses that can reach up to tens of billions of times the mass of our sun.
	Astronomers find direct link that supernovae give rise to black holes or neutron stars Astronomers have found a direct link between the explosive deaths of massive stars and the formation of the most compact and enigmatic objects in the universe—black holes and neutron stars. With the help of the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope (ESO's VLT) and ESO's New Technology Telescope (NTT), two teams were able to observe the aftermath of a supernova explosion in a nearby galaxy, finding evidence for the mysterious compact object it left behind.
	Jupiter has at least three magnetosheath jets, finds Voyager 2 data study A team of astrophysicists and astronomers from Harbin Institute of Technology, Johns Hopkins University and Peking University has found evidence from Voyager 2 data showing that Jupiter has at least three magnetosheath jets. The study is published in Nature Communications.
	Discovery of unusual star may change our picture of how stars explode and elements are made Scientists have found a star unlike any other one recorded—which may change our understanding of how stars die.
	Astronomers make rare exoplanet discovery, and a giant leap in detecting Earth-like bodies Astronomers have made the rare discovery of a small, cold exoplanet and its massive outer companion—shedding light on the formation of planets like Earth.
	Potential solvents identified for building on the moon and Mars Researchers have taken the first steps toward finding liquid solvents that may someday help extract critical building materials from lunar- and Martian-rock dust, an important part of making long-term space travel possible.
	Astronomers spot an Earth-sized planet with a 'lava hemisphere' In a system with two known planets, astronomers spotted something new: A small object transiting across the sun-sized star. This turned out to be another planet, which was extra hot and Earth-sized.
	NASA scientists discover a novel galactic 'fossil' Researchers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, have discovered X-ray activity that sheds light on the evolution of galaxies.
	Scientists investigate how heat rises through Europa's ocean Europa, one of Jupiter's many moons, may be capable of supporting life because its icy surface likely obscures a deep, salty ocean. Europa's ocean is also in direct contact with its mantle rocks, and interactions between rock, water, and ice could provide energy to sustain life.
	Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope detects surprise gamma-ray feature beyond our galaxy Astronomers analyzing 13 years of data from NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope have found an unexpected and as yet unexplained feature outside of our galaxy.
	Mammoth rocket stage for Blue Origin New Glenn goes for sideways ride on Space Coast A first stage of Blue Origin's massive New Glenn rocket became king of the road for a day making a trip from the factory to its launch complex on Wednesday.
	US–Indian satellite will monitor Earth's changing frozen regions NISAR, the soon-to-launch radar satellite from NASA and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), will measure some key Earth vital signs, from the health of wetlands to ground deformation by volcanoes to the dynamics of land and sea ice.
	In the Wild West of corporate space travel, humans could return to the moon. But does it bring diplomatic challenges? When Pittsburgh-based company Astrobiotic Technology launched its fuel-efficient, NASA-backed flight to the moon, hopes were high that it would be the first U.S. moon landing in more than 50 years. But a fuel leak resulted in the company pulling the plug on the landing and in NASA delaying its plans to return humans to the surface of the moon by a year as part of its Artemis program.
	Researchers release open-source space debris model MIT's Astrodynamics, Space Robotics, and Controls Laboratory (ARCLab) announced the public beta release of the MIT Orbital Capacity Assessment Tool (MOCAT) during the 2023 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Space Forum Workshop on Dec. 14. MOCAT enables users to model the long-term future space environment to understand growth in space debris and assess the effectiveness of debris-prevention mechanisms.
	Another example of a fantastic Einstein ring The most evocative astronomy images take us across space and time to stars and galaxies billions of light-years away. Nestled at the center of this one, taken by the Hubble Space Telescope, is a collection of three galaxies. They're not all that close together, although they appear to be in this image. What's fascinating about this image is that it's a fine example of an Einstein gravitational ring—and its discovery was enabled by members of the public.
	Impact Craters: Can they help us find life elsewhere? When we look at the moon, either through a pair of binoculars, a telescope, or past footage from the Apollo missions, we see a landscape that's riddled with what appear to be massive sinkholes. But these "sinkholes" aren't just on the moon, as they are evident on nearly every planetary body throughout the solar system, from planets, to other moons, to asteroids. They are called impact craters and can range in size from cities to small countries.

Technology news

	Catalytic combo converts CO₂ to solid carbon nanofibers while offsetting emissions Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory and Columbia University have developed a way to convert carbon dioxide (CO2), a potent greenhouse gas, into carbon nanofibers, materials with a wide range of unique properties and many potential long-term uses. Their strategy uses tandem electrochemical and thermochemical reactions run at relatively low temperatures and ambient pressure.
	Scientists unveil blueprint for affordable solar cells to power Saudi Arabia and beyond Scientists have unveiled a roadmap for bringing perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells to market, paving the way for a future powered by abundant, inexpensive clean energy in Saudi Arabia and the world.
	Scientists develop artificial muscle device that produces force 34 times its weight Researchers have developed a fluid switch using ionic polymer artificial muscles that operates at ultra-low power and produces a force 34 times greater than its weight. Fluid switches control fluid flow, causing the fluid to flow in a specific direction to invoke various movements.
	Laser-controlled liquid metals herald new era for soft robotics Researchers at The University of Queensland (UQ) are developing new 4D printing technology that produces shape-shifting liquid metals for soft robotics.
	Research shows artificial intelligence fails in grammar A study of UAB and URV researchers and published in PNAS shows that human beings recognize grammatical errors in a sentence while AI does not. Researchers have compared the skills of humans and the three best large language models currently available.
	Novel AI framework generates images from nothing A new, potentially revolutionary artificial intelligence framework called "Blackout Diffusion" generates images from a completely empty picture, meaning that, unlike other generative diffusion models, the machine-learning algorithm does not require initiating a "random seed" to get started.
	Bulky additives could make cheaper solar cells last longer An insight into preventing perovskite semiconductors from degrading quickly, discovered at the University of Michigan, could help enable solar cells estimated to be two to four times cheaper than today's thin-film solar panels.
	Google awaits EU legal opinion on 2.4-bn-euro fine The Advocate General of the European Court of Justice will on Thursday publish a long-awaited opinion on a contested 2.4-billion-euro ($2.6-billion) fine that Brussels slapped on Google for anti-competitive practices.
	CES 2024 updates: AI fortune telling, accessible gaming, a flying taxi and Martha Stewart Welcome to CES 2024. This multi-day trade event put on by the Consumer Technology Association is expected to bring some 130,000 attendees and more than 4,000 exhibitors to Las Vegas. The latest advances and gadgets across personal tech, transportation, health care, sustainability and more will be on display, with burgeoning uses of artificial intelligence almost everywhere you look.
	Autonomous driving is 'happening', but slower than expected To the believers, the oft-promised autonomous car revolution is "clearly happening"—they point to the myriad displays at the Consumers Electronics Show in Las Vegas that defy the industry's bad headlines.
	US regulators authorize first bitcoin funds on public markets US securities regulators gave the green light Wednesday to a group of bitcoin exchange-traded funds, a keenly anticipated decision expected to boost the cryptocurrency.
	UK unveils plans for 'biggest nuclear power expansion in 70 years' The UK government on Thursday announced plans for what it said was the country's "biggest expansion of nuclear power for 70 years" to bolster its energy independence and meet carbon emission targets.
	Uber, Kia sign electric vehicle partnership US ride-hailing platform Uber and South Korean automaker Kia announced Wednesday the signing of an agreement on producing electric vehicles, during the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
	Google lays off hundreds in hardware, voice assistant teams amid cost-cutting drive Google has laid off hundreds of employees working on its hardware, voice assistance and engineering teams as part of cost-cutting measures.
	Highly durable, non-noble metal electrodes for hydrogen production from seawater Water electrolysis using renewable energy sources has emerged as a promising clean method for hydrogen production. However, its extensive freshwater consumption poses limitations to regions with abundant water resources. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a new technology for water electrolysis that can directly harness the abundant supply of seawater.
	World added 50% more renewable energy but more needed: IEA The world added 50 percent more renewable energy capacity in 2023 over the previous year but more is needed in the battle against climate change, the International Energy Agency said Thursday.
	How we almost ended up with a bull's-eye bar code Few objects in the world are more immediately recognizable than the bar code. After all, bar codes are all around us. They're on the books we buy and the packages that land on our doorsteps. More than 6 billion bar codes are scanned every single day. They've become such an accepted part of our daily lives that it's hard to imagine how they could look any different.
	How do I use air conditioning efficiently? Is it better to blast it briefly throughout the day, or just leave it on? Despite so many people having air conditioning at home now, many are still unsure how to use it efficiently. And air conditioning uses a lot of energy. For example, running all the lights in an average home all day and night consumes about the same energy as one hour of air conditioning of the same space.
	The New York Times' lawsuit against OpenAI could have major implications for the development of machine intelligence In 1954, the Guardian's science correspondent reported on "electronic brains", which had a form of memory that could let them retrieve information, like airline seat allocations, in a matter of seconds.
	Blizzards are inescapable, but the most expensive winter storm damage is largely preventable, says engineer Winter storms can easily become billion-dollar disasters as the snow piles up on interstates and collapses roofs and power lines. Yet, while canceled flights and business interruptions can't be avoided, what turns a snowstorm into a disaster often can be.
	Artificial intelligence helps unlock advances in wireless communications A new wave of communication technology is quickly approaching and researchers at UBC Okanagan are investigating ways to configure next-generation mobile networks.
	Will Apple's new Vision Pro mixed reality headset change how we relive memories? Imagine this: you're at the beach enjoying the day with your friends. You take in the shining sun and the calm waves that can be heard in the distance. Wanting to capture the moment, you grab your smartphone and take a video.
	Revolutionizing real-time data processing with edge computing and reservoir technology Every day, a significant amount of data related to weather, traffic, and social media undergo real-time processing. In traditional cloud computing, this processing occurs on the cloud, raising concerns about issues such as leaks, communication delays, slow speeds, and higher power consumption.
	New report updates NASA on space-based solar power Space-based solar power offers tantalizing possibilities for sustainable energy—in the future, orbital collection systems could harvest energy in space, and beam it wirelessly back to Earth. These systems could serve remote locations across the planet to supplement the terrestrial power transmission infrastructure required today.
	Here are the 'Worst in Show' CES products, according to consumer and privacy advocates The best CES products pierce through the haze of marketing hype at the Las Vegas gadget show to reveal innovations that could improve lives.
	Airbus says record 2,094 planes ordered in 2023, 735 delivered European planemaker Airbus said Thursday that it secured 2,094 net plane orders last year, a record for the group as airlines prepare for further global passenger growth and seek out more fuel-efficient planes.
	At CES, tech for sleep, not late night scrolling Technology causes us to lose sleep, but can it also give it back?
	Buzz, bump, goal! Drone soccer aims high at CES A loud whirring sound incites fear that a giant swarm of insects has overtaken Eureka Park, one of the venues for the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. But in fact, it's a group of "soccer drones" made in South Korea.
	Study pinpoints the weaknesses in AI ChatGPT and other solutions built on machine learning are surging. But even the most successful algorithms have limitations. Researchers from University of Copenhagen have proven mathematically that apart from simple problems it is not possible to create algorithms for AI that will always be stable. The study, posted to the arXiv preprint server, may lead to guidelines on how to better test algorithms and reminds us that machines do not have human intelligence after all.
	Brain-inspired model enhances wastewater treatment predictions Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) play a crucial role in environmental protection by mitigating risks to public health and aquatic ecosystems through the prevention of pollutant release. Accurately predicting effluent quality, especially levels of ammonia nitrogen (NH3) and chemical oxygen demand (COD), is essential for ensuring water safety and enhancing the efficiency of WWTPs. Despite advances in data-driven methods, persistent challenges arise from the complexity of wastewater data.
	Study explores how we interact with remote drivers Newcastle University research is helping shed light on the important interaction between users and remote drivers that oversee the operation of automated vehicles.
	How tidal range electricity generation can protect coastal areas Tidal range schemes can protect estuaries and coastal areas from the effects of sea level rise according to a new study by Lancaster researchers.
	Q&A: ChatGPT has read almost the whole internet. That hasn't solved its diversity issues AI language models are booming. The current frontrunner is ChatGPT, which can do everything from taking a bar exam to creating an HR policy to writing a movie script.
	Taiwan prepares for cyber D-Day in China invasion scenarios Millions of people offline, banks knocked out and the world's most advanced semiconductor industry paralyzed—Taiwan's doomsday scenario includes not just invading Chinese troops but also a wave of attacks against its cyber infrastructure.
	Chinese auto exports rose 64% in 2023, with strong push by EVs, as makers expanded overseas China's auto exports surged 63.7% in 2023 while domestic sales, boosted by year-end incentives, rose 4.2%, an industry association said Thursday.
	Business trumps politics for Chinese companies at CES Xiaoyu Fan smiled as she looked around a bustling China Pavilion at the Consumer Electronics Show Wednesday as gadgets like bladeless fans were displayed and deals were being made.
	Elon Musk's X tells watchdog it has shed 1,000 'safety' staff Elon Musk's X has shed more than 1,000 staff globally from teams responsible for stopping abusive content online, according to new figures released Thursday by Australia's online watchdog.
	Commentary: Greening our Northern California home and cars cut our energy bills by $11,000 a year, but it wasn't easy As global carbon emissions from human activity hit an all-time high last year, my family zeroed out emissions from our home and cars while getting an 11% tax-free return on the investment. That's more than twice the yield of municipal bonds. And it's an auspicious time to hit this target, weeks after an oil executive running the recent United Nations climate summit in Dubai rehashed the trope that eliminating fossil fuels would "take the world back into caves."
	India's TCS, Infosys see revenue dips on client spending cuts Indian IT giants TCS and Infosys both signaled weak revenue growth in quarterly results Thursday as a client spending slowdown deepened a seasonally weak time for the sector.
	Methodology for regulating fuel stratification and improving fuel economy of GCI mode via double main-injection strategy Exploring advanced combustion mode with high efficiency and low emissions has been the dream of successive generations of researchers. Conventional diesel engines have high compression ratios thus with thermal efficiencies of 35%–45%, but the diffusion combustion characteristics of diesel make NOx and soot emissions high.
	US is investigating if Boeing made sure a part that blew off a jet was made to design standards The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating whether Boeing failed to make sure a panel that blew off a jetliner in midflight last week was safe and manufactured to meet the design that regulators approved.
	Hertz to shrink EV rental fleet over sluggish US demand Hertz said Thursday it will sell one-third of its electric vehicle (EV) automobiles to resize its fleet in line with slowing demand growth for emission-free transport.
	New lubricants could offer cheaper and greener rail services New lubricants, combined with new knowledge about how they should be applied to train wheels and rails, have the potential to reduce rail sector costs in Norway by hundreds of millions of kroner during the next decade.

Chemistry news

	Scientists tame chaotic protein fueling 75% of cancers MYC is the shapeless protein responsible for making the majority of human cancer cases worse. UC Riverside researchers have found a way to rein it in, offering hope for a new era of treatments.
	Realizing eco-friendly and high-performance thermoelectric materials In a new study, environmentally benign inverse-perovskites with high energy conversion efficiency have been reported by Tokyo Tech scientists with potential for practical application as thermoelectric materials (TEMs). Addressing the limitations typically faced with TEMs, such as insufficient energy conversion efficiency and environmental toxicity due to heavy elements, the new TEMs provide a suitable alternative to TEMs based on toxic elements with better thermoelectric properties than conventional eco-friendly TEMs.
	Study identifies reaction conditions that could make autoxidation of aldehydes more environmentally friendly Approximately 5% of global carbon emissions are attributable to producing the chemicals that are essential to modern life. Creating a sustainable solution to one chemical reaction in particular—the autoxidation of aldehydes—has challenged researchers for decades.
	Moisture-resistant hairstyling agent: Development of a humidity-induced shape memory polymeric material NIMS and Nihon L'Oréal K.K. have developed a shape memory polymeric material responsive to humidity. This innovative material, when applied to a person's hair and allowed to dry, serves as an exceptionally moisture-resistant hairstyling agent. The research was published in Advanced Materials Interfaces.
	New catalytic technique creates key component of incontinence drug in less time A research group at Nagoya University in Japan has developed a new catalyst that promises to revolutionize the asymmetric synthesis of pharmaceuticals called chiral macrocyclic dilithium(I) salt. It overcomes the lack of reactivity of ketones and the difficulty inducing them to arrange atoms, which are common challenges in drug-making.
	Molecularly designing polymer networks to control sound damping The world is filled with myriad sounds and vibrations—the gentle tones of a piano drifting down the hall, the relaxing purr of a cat laying on your chest, the annoying hum of the office lights. Imagine being able to selectively tune out noises of a certain frequency.
	Methane activation by [LnO]+: The 4f orbital matters As the "holy grail" in the field of chemistry, the catalytic activation of methane has been a topic of great interest in the field of heterogeneous catalysis. Gas-phase experiments provide an ideal platform for exploring catalytic reaction mechanisms and gaining in-depth understanding of electronic structures.

Biology news

	New dinosaur species may be closest known relative of Tyrannosaurus rex A new species of tyrannosaur from southern North America that may the closest known relative of Tyrannosaurus rex is described in a study published in Scientific Reports.
	Oldest known fossilized skin is 21 million years older than previous examples Researchers have identified a 3D fragment of fossilized skin that is at least 21 million years than previously described skin fossils. The skin, which belonged to an early species of Paleozoic reptile, has a pebbled surface and most closely resembles crocodile skin. It's the oldest example of preserved epidermis, the outermost layer of skin in terrestrial reptiles, birds, and mammals, which was an important evolutionary adaptation in the transition to life on land.
	A global study reveals pathways to save threatened sharks, despite rising mortality trends Sharks have persisted as powerful ocean predators for more than 400 million years. They survived five mass extinctions, diversifying into an amazing variety of forms and lifestyles. But this ancient lineage is now among the world's most threatened species groups due to overexploitation in poorly regulated fisheries and the proliferation of wasteful finning practices.
	A 22-million-year-old petrified mangrove forest found in the Panama Canal A team of environmental and natural scientists from Universidad EAFIT in Colombia, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama, and Boise State University in the U.S. has found evidence of an ancient petrified mangrove forest on an island in the Panama Canal. For their study, reported in the journal Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, the group collected fossils and sediment samples from the island.
	Climate change spells disaster for termite-loving numbats Australia is known for its wonderous and unique wildlife. But, just like the rest of the world, Australia is expected to get even hotter due to climate change. This could spell disaster for many of the marsupials that call the drier regions of the country home as it may get too hot for them to handle.
	Fossil of 72-million-year-old sturgeon discovered in Edmonton A 72-million-year-old sturgeon fossil has been discovered in Edmonton's North Saskatchewan River Valley, the first fish material of any kind found from that time period and in that geographical area.
	Researchers develop prime editors using Cas12a and circular RNAs in human cells In a study published in Nature Biotechnology, Gao Caixia's group from the Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed a series of new prime editors based on the Cas12a protein, further expanding the targeting scope and applications of precision genome editing.
	Study reveals freshwater phytoplankton in Lake Baikal produce sulfur-containing chemical to survive in ice Dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) is a compound synthesized by marine phytoplankton for protection against the osmotic pressure of saline water. However, DMSP could also have a role in preventing freezing damage.
	Bioinformatics: Researchers develop a new machine learning approach To combat viruses, bacteria and other pathogens, synthetic biology offers new technological approaches whose performance is being validated in experiments. Researchers from the Würzburg Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research and the Helmholtz AI Cooperative applied data integration and artificial intelligence (AI) to develop a machine learning approach that can predict the efficacy of CRISPR technologies more accurately than before.
	Gland-like tissue in saber-toothed frog lower jaw may be used for communication A team of zoologists from the Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science's Museum für Naturkunde, the University of Würzburg, both in Germany and ONG EnviSud Guinée, in Guinea, has found evidence that the gland-like tissue in the lower jaw of saber-toothed frogs may be used for communication. Their paper is published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.
	Researchers profile two elusive proteins critical for healthy cell division The cells in our bodies constantly divide and renew themselves. But if division goes wrong, cancer or other diseases can result. Now, University of Connecticut researchers have profiled two elusive proteins critical for healthy cell division. They report their results in the Dec. 20 issue of Nature.
	Customizable polymer molds for microneedle tattoos to ID pets instead of tags or collars If you've ever taken a car trip through a rural area, you might already know that livestock, including cows and sheep, can be individually tracked using decidedly old-fashioned methods, such as ear tags or even branding marks. By contrast, many tech-savvy pet owners have opted to have their dog or cat "chipped" by having a radio frequency identification (RFID) permanently implanted under the skin.
	Researchers discover protein complex that controls DNA repair The repair of damage to genetic material (DNA) in the human body is carried out by highly efficient mechanisms that have not yet been fully researched. A scientific team led by Christian Seiser from MedUni Vienna's Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology has now discovered a previously unrecognized control point for these processes.
	Study reveals unexpected strategy in competition between bacteria and viruses If you've seen the original Star Wars movie, you might wonder whether the iconic Tie fighter was modeled after the Gabija protein complex, a bacterial defense system.
	Scientists uncover ocean's intricate web of microbial interactions across different depths An international team of scientists led by researchers from the Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC) in Barcelona has uncovered the ocean's intricate web of microbial interactions across different depths. The research, which provides crucial insights into the functioning of ocean ecosystems, is published in the journal Nature Communications.
	Study shows otters, beavers and other semiaquatic mammals keep clean underwater, thanks to their flexible fur Underwater surfaces can get grimy as they accumulate dirt, algae and bacteria, a process scientists call "fouling." But furry mammals like beavers and otters that spend most of their lives wet manage to avoid getting their fur slimy. These anti-fouling abilities come, in part, from one of fur's unique properties—that each hair can bend and flex as an animal moves.
	Brazilian semi-arid biome could lose over 90% of mammal species by 2060 The foreseeable effects of climate change on the Caatinga, the semi-arid shrubland and thorn forest biome in Brazil's Northeast region, will be catastrophic for most terrestrial mammal species that live there.
	A new type of plant metalloreductase maintains root growth under low phosphorus The release of low-molecular weight carboxylates, such as malate, is used by many plant species to mine poorly available phosphorus (P) from the soil. Malate can increase the availability of phosphate, the P form taken up by plants, by chelating trivalent aluminum or iron (Fe).
	Study discovers how a system of proteins helps Salmonella survive inside macrophages Salmonella is notorious for surviving and replicating in macrophages, which are normally lethal to invading bacteria because of their inhospitable environment. In a new study, researchers have discovered how a system of proteins, called TamAB, helps Salmonella survive under the harsh conditions inside macrophages.
	Analysis of two decades' worth of antibiotic resistance shows antibiotic use is not the only driver of superbugs For the first time, researchers have analyzed the impact of antibiotic use on the rise of treatment-resistant bacteria over the last 20 years in the UK and Norway. They show that while the increase in drug use has amplified the spread of superbugs, it is not the only driver.
	Even the oldest eukaryote fossils show dazzling diversity and complexity The sun has just set on a quiet mudflat in Australia's Northern Territory; it'll set again in another 19 hours. A young moon looms large over the desolate landscape. No animals scurry in the waning light. No leaves rustle in the breeze. No lichens encrust the exposed rock. The only hint of life is some scum in a few puddles and ponds. And among it lives a diverse microbial community of our ancient ancestors.
	Top ten plant and fungal species named new to science in 2023 Scientists from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew together with international partners present their annual pick of the top 10 plants and fungi described as new to science in 2023.
	A novel pathway regulating lipid biosynthesis by fatty acids Researchers have been studying the transcription factor, SREBP, a critical regulator of lipid biosynthesis. Precursor SREBP proteins, located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of the cell, are transported through the Golgi apparatus to the nucleus. Here, they promote the transcription of genes associated with lipid biosynthesis, playing a pivotal role in regulating cholesterol.
	To protect endangered sharks and rays, scientists are mapping these species' most important locations All of the saltwater bodies on Earth make up one big ocean. But within it, there is infinite variety—just ask any scuba diver. Some spots have more coral, more sea turtles, more fish, more life.
	Mating anchovies stir up the sea as much as a major storm—and it's good for the environment, too Why would oceanographers ever care about anchovies having sex? We do because these small fish can help mix different layers of the ocean when they mate. This circulates nutrients, oxygen, and greenhouse gases around different layers of the ocean, thereby sustaining the ecosystem.
	Declining primate numbers are threatening Brazil's Atlantic forest We tend to think of debt as purely financial, but we can also reap what we sow in the natural world through what is known as extinction debt. This concept refers to changes in the past that affect a species' survival in the future.
	New rice lines for Africa offer virus protection Rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) is responsible for high crop losses in Africa, particularly among small-scale farmers. A research team has now produced rice lines that are resistant to the disease by means of genome editing.
	A single-celled microbe is helping corals survive climate change, study finds Researchers have discovered a single-celled microbe that can help corals survive ocean-warming events like bleaching. The new study, led by scientists at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science and the Institute of Evolutionary Biology (IBE: CSIC-UPF) in Barcelona, offers new information on the role microbes might play in helping corals withstand end-of-century warming projections.
	Next-generation wastewater solutions: Utilizing acid-resistant microbes for improved treatment efficiency Free nitrous acid (FNA) is known for its capacity to inhibit various microorganisms in wastewater systems, significantly benefiting treatment process management. Initially deemed problematic due to its potential adverse effects on treatment, FNA is now employed to enhance wastewater management by mitigating odors, emissions, and harmful bacteria.
	Toxic algae blooms: Study assesses potential health hazards to humans Florida's 156-mile-long Indian River Lagoon (IRL) borders five different counties and has five inlets that connect the lagoon with the Atlantic Ocean. This estuary has recently experienced numerous phytoplankton bloom events due to increased seasonal temperatures and environmental impacts.
	New equations will better estimate protein utilization by beef cattle, benefit producers Knowing exactly how beef cattle utilize protein is important to answering many nutrition questions producers and industry nutritionists pose to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialists like Jason Smith, Ph.D., Amarillo.

Medicine and Health news

	Generative artificial intelligence models effectively highlight social determinants of health in doctors' notes Where we live and work, our age, and the conditions we grew up in can influence our health and lead to disparities, but these factors can be difficult for clinicians and researchers to capture and address.
	Watching others visibly dislike vegetables might make onlookers dislike them, too Humans learn which behaviors pay off and which don't from watching others. Based on this, we may draw conclusions about how to act—or eat. In the latter's case, people may use each other as guides to determine what and how much to eat. This is called social modeling and is one of the most powerful social influences on eating behavior.
	Lab-grown retinas explain why people see colors dogs can't With human retinas grown in a petri dish, researchers discovered how an offshoot of vitamin A generates the specialized cells that enable people to see millions of colors, an ability that dogs, cats, and other mammals do not possess.
	Research shows deadly brain cancer can mimic healthy neurons Certain cancers are more difficult to treat because they contain cells that are highly skilled at evading drugs or our immune systems by disguising themselves as healthy cells.
	Key mechanisms in the synapses of the cerebellum unraveled Whether picking up a small object like a pen or coordinating different body parts, the cerebellum in the brain performs essential functions for controlling our movement. Researchers at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) investigated how a crucial set of synapses between neurons within it functions and develops. Their findings have now been published in the journal Neuron.
	Producing tears in a dish: Researchers develop first model of human conjunctiva The Organoid group at the Hubrecht Institute produced the first organoid model of the human conjunctiva. These organoids mimic the function of the actual human conjunctiva, a tissue involved in tear production. Using their new model, the researchers discovered a new cell type in this tissue: tuft cells. The tuft cells become more abundant under allergy-like conditions and are therefore likely to play a role in allergies.
	Systematic cancer cell analysis uncovers hundreds of overlooked drug targets A new, systematic analysis of cancer cells identifies 370 candidate priority drug targets across 27 cancer types, including breast, lung and ovarian cancers.
	Small changes in specific immune cell populations linked to autoimmune disorders Much like ripples on the water can betray powerful currents below the surface, small changes in our bodies can sometimes be an indicator of a serious condition. Now, researchers from Japan say that cells in the blood may provide telltale signs of important immune dysfunction.
	Study finds tafenoquine is a cost-effective treatment option for malaria A new study led by Menzies School of Health Research has provided further insight into the cost-effectiveness of a new malaria medication, tafenoquine, to treat vivax malaria.
	Indian researchers design thermostable, broadly protective vaccine candidate for current and future SARS-CoV-2 variants Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Raghavan Varadarajan, Professor at the Molecular Biophysics Unit (MBU), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and collaborators have been working on developing a heat-tolerant vaccine that can offer protection against different strains of SARS-CoV-2—both current and future variants.
	Updated genomic landscape for pediatric acute myeloid leukemia enables new treatment possibilities Compared to adult cancers, pediatric cancers often have distinctive genetic causes. This means there is an opportunity to develop pediatric-focused diagnostic strategies and treatments. Research by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital published today (Jan. 11) in Nature Genetics clarifies the genomic landscape of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (pAML). The work offers novel insight into this cancer's causes and unique biological characteristics.
	Commensal T cells: How a healthy microbiome reduces gut inflammation The microbiome has a profound influence on our health, but exactly how our resident bacteria wield their power is still unclear. A type of T cell appears to provide some answers for gastrointestinal health, a study of the mouse microbiome finds.
	Research reveals mice without immune cells show no SARS-CoV-2 symptoms When mice lacking key adaptive immune cells were infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus, even though they are not able to clear the virus, they developed no symptoms, revealing that the body's own inflammatory immune response to fight the infection was causing the pathology, according to a new study.
	Neural mechanisms may serve as therapeutic target for depression A recent study published in Molecular Psychiatry has identified previously unknown alterations in neural connectivity that promote psychomotor disturbance—a slowing or reduction in movement—in individuals with major depressive disorder.
	New smoke exposure model may help determine the effects of cannabis on consumers more accurately The legalization of cannabis in Canada is driving the demand for scientifically backed insights to inform public health messaging.
	Study finds loss of RBFOX2 protein promotes pancreatic cancer metastasis through effects on cytoskeletal remodeling Pancreatic cancer presents a challenging prognosis, marked by a five-year overall survival rate of merely 12.5%. Diagnosis frequently occurs at an advanced stage, characterized by metastasis to distant sites. The intricate molecular mechanisms governing pancreatic cancer metastasis remain a subject of ongoing research and exploration.
	Three-quarters of autistic children also have other types of neurodivergence, finds study Three quarters of children (76.2%) who were diagnosed with autism also had traits of other neurodivergent neurotypes—including traits associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning and motor differences—according to a new study.
	Patients with rare heart condition given lifeline through new drug People diagnosed with a life-threatening cardiac condition have been given new hope, thanks to a ground-breaking new drug that protects the heart developed by researchers from UCL and the Royal Free Hospital.
	Study shows genetically modified pluripotent stem cells may evade immunological rejection after transplantation One of the biggest barriers to regenerative medicine is immunological rejection by the recipient, a problem researchers at the University of Arizona Health Sciences are one step closer to solving after genetically modifying pluripotent stem cells to evade immune recognition.
	New immune system-targeting compound shows early promise in treating lupus Scientists from Scripps Research have developed a small molecule that blocks the activity of a protein linked to autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Crohn's disease. This protein, known as SLC15A4, has been considered largely "undruggable," as most researchers have long struggled to isolate the protein, determine its structure, or even pin down its exact function within immune cells—until now.
	Scientists identify how dietary restriction slows brain aging and increases lifespan Restricting calories is known to improve health and increase lifespan, but much of how it does so remains a mystery, especially in regard to how it protects the brain. Buck Institute for Research on Aging scientists have uncovered a role for a gene called OXR1 that is necessary for the lifespan extension seen with dietary restriction and is essential for healthy brain aging.
	Quest for personalized medicine hits a snag: Current models have limited effectiveness to predict treatments, says study The quest for personalized medicine, a medical approach in which practitioners use a patient's unique genetic profile to tailor individual treatment, has emerged as a critical goal in the health care sector. But a new Yale-led study shows that the mathematical models currently available to predict treatments have limited effectiveness.
	Study finds AI-driven eye exams increase screening rates for youth with diabetes A Johns Hopkins Children's Center study of children and youth with diabetes concludes that so-called autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) diabetic eye exams significantly increase completion rates of screenings designed to prevent potentially blinding diabetes eye diseases (DED). During the exam, pictures are taken of the backs of the eyes without dilating them, and AI is used to provide an immediate result.
	Study: In patients with long COVID, immune cells don't follow the rules People with long COVID have dysfunctional immune cells that show signs of chronic inflammation and faulty movement into organs, among other unusual activity, according to a new study by scientists at Gladstone Institutes and UC San Francisco (UCSF).
	Research suggests link between medical cannabis for chronic pain and abnormal heart rhythm People taking medical cannabis for chronic pain have a slightly increased risk of arrhythmia, according to research published in the European Heart Journal today (Thursday). Arrhythmia is when the heart beats too slowly, too quickly or irregularly. It includes conditions like atrial fibrillation.
	Large study supports use of whole genome sequencing in standard cancer care In the largest study of its kind, scientists report how combining health data with whole genome sequence (WGS) data in patients with cancer can help doctors provide more tailored care for their patients.
	Reduced blood lead levels linked to lower blood pressure Through the Strong Heart Family Study, researchers have found that small declines in blood lead levels were associated with long-term cardiovascular health improvements in Native American adults. Participants who had the greatest reductions in blood lead levels saw their systolic blood pressure fall by about 7 mm Hg, an amount comparable to the effects of blood pressure-lowering medication.
	Cracking the code: How what you eat might affect your cancer risk There is an unresolved debate about the extent to which the environment contributes to cancer risk. Although epidemiological studies suggest that environmental factors such as diet can certainly contribute, especially for colon cancer, how dietary factors could tip the scale in favor of cancer is not known.
	As blizzards bear down, stay safe from carbon monoxide dangers With blizzards and possible power outages threatening much of America this week, some dangers might not be immediately obvious: carbon monoxide poisoning, fires and electric shock.
	Fracture risk up with prediabetes before menopause transition For women in midlife, prediabetes before the menopause transition (MT) is associated with increased risk of incident fracture during and after the transition, according to a study published online May 23 in JAMA Network Open.
	There are no US clinical guidelines for treating and diagnosing adult ADHD: That may change soon The number of adults being diagnosed with ADHD—a neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity—is increasing rapidly in the U.S. According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, such adult diagnoses are growing roughly four times faster than they are among children.
	Doctors are as vulnerable to addiction as anyone: California grapples with a response As addiction and overdose deaths command headlines across the nation, the Medical Board of California, which licenses MDs, is developing a new program to treat and monitor doctors with alcohol and drug problems. But a fault line has appeared over whether those who join the new program without being ordered to by the board should be subject to public disclosure.
	Experiments in infant mice suggest new way to prevent spread of flu in people Scientists have long known that some viruses and bacteria begin infections by latching first onto sugar molecules on the surfaces of cells lining the sinuses and throat of mammals, including humans. Viral particles, for instance, can attach to these molecules, called sialic acids, or SAs, like keys fitting into locks.
	High-dose radiotherapy with chemotherapy found to be effective in treating people with non-small cell lung cancer A new study led by researchers from the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center shows that using high doses of radiation while integrating an ablative radiotherapy technique called stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) concurrently with chemotherapy is safe and effective in treating people with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer that is not suitable for surgery.
	Unlocking the mechanisms of HIV in preclinical research Mayo Clinic researchers have unraveled the molecular mechanisms that affect which cells infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) die and which survive, a discovery heralded as a step toward eliminating all HIV-infected cells from the body.
	The key to early-onset bowel cancer may be gut bacteria Three weeks after her 40th birthday, Julie McDonald had a colonoscopy. When she walked into the doctor's office afterwards, there were photos lined up on the desk.
	UK maternal deaths reaches highest level in 20 years: study The number of women in Britain dying during pregnancy or soon afterwards has reached its highest level in almost two decades, a new study reported Thursday.
	Loss of executive function may signal onset of neurodegenerative condition FXTAS New UC Davis research shows that men with an FMR1 premutation who experienced reduced executive function were at higher likelihood of developing fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS).
	Time for a 'Weed-Free January?' How cannabis users could benefit from a 'dry' month By now, most are familiar with the idea of Dry January, a voluntary month without alcohol that follows a month when many drink more than usual.
	Breaking the curve: A call for comprehensive scoliosis awareness and care Cael was a typical 15-year-old—until the discovery of an already advanced abnormal curvature of his spine.
	Study finds hospital surfaces can harbor harmful microbes even after routine disinfection A new study published in the American Journal of Infection Control reports microbial contamination—including pathogenic and potentially pathogenic bacteria—on high-touch hospital surfaces despite compliance with recommended disinfection protocols.
	It's normal for your mind to wander. Here's how to maximize the benefits Have you ever found yourself thinking about loved ones during a boring meeting? Or going over the plot of a movie you recently watched during a drive to the supermarket?
	ADHD medication—can you take it long term? What are the risks and do benefits continue? Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that can affect all stages of life. Medication is not the only treatment, but it is often the treatment that can make the most obvious difference to a person who has difficulties focusing attention, sitting still or not acting on impulse.
	Four ways men and women can improve their health before trying to conceive It's well-known how important it is to look after your health during and after pregnancy. But it can also be just as important for both men and women to focus on their health even before they begin trying for a baby.
	FDA to import syphilis drug from France amid shortage Amid an ongoing shortage of the first-line treatment for syphilis in the United States, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration will allow the importation of a different syphilis drug from a French drugmaker.
	Pandemic-era demand for ADHD meds is fueling shortages today A spike in the use of ADHD medications during the pandemic likely prompted drug shortages that continue to frustrate patients and doctors today, a new study shows.
	Down syndrome and joint replacement: Risks for post-surgical complications One of the largest studies to date on post-operative outcomes for patients with Down syndrome following total knee replacement and total hip replacement surgeries was recently published by Yale researchers.
	'Broken-heart syndrome' patients failed by current treatment, says study In the first-ever study to compare takotsubo patients with heart attack patients and the general population over more than five years, results showed that heart treatments given after takotsubo do not protect patients.
	Sweet on chocolate? It's what's inside—the cocoa powder—that counts It's a headline sure to make people keep reading: Is chocolate good for you?
	Taxes on sugar-sweetened drinks drive decline in consumption: Study A new study by researchers at UC Berkeley and elsewhere shows that after excise taxes were placed on sugary beverages, purchases declined dramatically and steadily across five American cities. The findings have been published in JAMA Health Forum.
	Why poor sleep quality can be a matter of life and death for migrant roofers Migrant roofers in the U.S. helping communities rebuild from natural disasters often struggle with poor quality of sleep, according to new research from Rice University. The issue can be a matter of life and death for these individuals, who are working in environments where a sleepy misstep can literally end their life or permanently injure them.
	New model creates an understanding of birth control pills regarding risk, resilience to depression While birth control hormones given to mice result in lower stress levels, the mice showed normal corticosterone responses to stress when given newer formulations of the pill, according to a new University of Michigan study.
	Intriguing insights uncovered for two rare heart muscle diseases Advancements in the study of two rare heart conditions—peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)—contributed by researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania may serve as critical guides in future work toward developing therapies for the conditions.
	Study: US health costs related to chemicals in plastics reached $250 billion in 2018 Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in plastics pose a serious threat to public health and cost the U.S. an estimated $250 billion in increased health care costs in 2018, according to new research published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society. The paper is titled "Chemicals Used in Plastic Materials: An Estimate of the Attributable Disease Burden and Costs in the US."
	A universal coronavirus vaccine could save billions of dollars if ready before next pandemic, study suggests What if scientists had developed a universal coronavirus vaccine in the years prior to 2020 so that it was available at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic? A universal coronavirus vaccine targets parts of the virus that are common to either many or all coronaviruses, thereby offering some degree of protection against a range of strains.
	New analysis reveals how skin microbiome could be associated with wrinkles and skin health The effects of aging and external factors like UV exposure on skin are well documented. As people age or spend more time in the sun, their skin tends to become drier and more wrinkled,
	More transparency needed in human-robot interactions in nursing care, researchers say It is essential in nursing care to have a transparent mapping of the entire human-robot interaction. That is the finding of the interdisciplinary research project Responsible Robotics, which researchers from TUM and the University of Graz completed in 2023. A data recorder helps to capture all events that occur when using a nursing care robot and make them visible and understandable for everyone involved.
	A noninvasive method for assessing muscular health in an aging population As individuals age, maintaining muscular health becomes increasingly crucial, where the loss of muscle mass and strength is linked to a higher risk of falls and reduced physical activity. Now, researchers from Japan have developed a practical and accessible muscular health monitoring system based on phase angle measurements currently used to monitor body composition. This method can play a pivotal role in promoting overall well-being for the older population.
	Study provides clinician guidance on follow-up for ovarian cysts About 15 to 20% of women will develop an ovarian cyst during their lifetime. The fluid-filled or solid sacs in the ovaries are usually non-cancerous and go away independently—studies show that about 85% resolve within five years.
	Researchers provide insights on families' experiences with fetal anomalies Learning during pregnancy that something might be wrong with the fetus is a life-changing event for expectant parents. Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School recently published an integrative review on fetal anomaly and family experiences in the Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing to help nurses and other health care providers understand the evidence about what emotions parents feel, their coping strategies, and what information and support are needed after they receive this unexpected diagnosis.
	Early childhood irritability and tantrums linked to future depression and self-harm Children whose irritability does not reduce between three and seven years are at higher risk of depression and self-harm as teenagers, according to a new study led by UCL researchers.
	Pain-based weather forecasts could influence behavior For individuals who experience chronic pain, weather can be a significant factor in their day-to-day plans. In a recent study from the University of Georgia published in the International Journal of Biometeorology, about 70% of respondents said they would alter their behavior based on weather-based pain forecasts.
	Snow shoveling, cold temperatures combine for perfect storm of heart health hazards Weather forecasters may call it "white fluffy stuff." However, snow can be a bigger danger than many people may realize. According to the American Heart Association, research shows that the exertion of shoveling snow may lead to an increased risk of a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest.
	Study reveals wastewater surveillance is key tool in keeping schools open during public health emergencies Wastewater surveillance is a potent tool in understanding COVID-19 transmission within school settings, according to a groundbreaking study led by epidemiologist David Larsen from Syracuse University.
	Research highlights prevalence of mental health conditions in young male offenders A new study looking at the mental health of young male prisoners has found that more than 85% had a current mental health condition; however, less than 3% had received a clinical assessment (i.e., a comprehensive assessment of mental health and neurodevelopment) while in prison.
	Early breastfeeding linked to lower risk of childhood obesity, regardless of mother's weight, study finds Consistently breastfeeding infants in any amount during their first three months was associated with a lower risk of childhood obesity, regardless of the mother's body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy, according to a new study.
	Two common biomarkers can predict heart risk in asymptomatic childhood cancer survivors Data from the St. Jude lifetime cohort study (St. Jude LIFE) have revealed that two common biomarkers of cardiac function and damage could better predict cardiomyopathy within five years than routine clinical evaluations in high-risk, asymptomatic childhood cancer survivors. Early detection through screening using these two biomarkers may lead to earlier treatment to prevent and protect against further heart damage.
	Study challenges traditional views on how the brain processes movement and sensation Our body movements profoundly impact how our brain processes sensory information. Historically, it was believed that the brain's primary motor cortex played a key role in modulating sensory experiences during movement. However, a new study led by researchers from Fujita Health University has challenged this view.
	Researchers compare health expectancy in Russia and Central Asian countries using a multifaceted approach to health The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the start of a period ripe with political, economic, and societal changes. In many former Soviet countries, these abrupt and turbulent transformations posed massive challenges to health care systems. Together with spikes in job losses and economic hardships, this led to a steep increase in mortality rates that would later come to be known as the "post-Soviet mortality crisis."
	How does social attention develop in autistic children? As they grow, children increasingly focus their attention on social elements in their environment, such as faces or social interactions. However, children with autism are often more interested in non-social stimuli, such as textures or geometric shapes.
	Study looks at cardiovascular risks in COVID-19 survivors The emergence of COVID-19 pandemic caused as a result of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus marked a global health crisis with over 770 million cases of infection and 6 million deaths by September 6, 2023. Around 6.2% of the recovered individuals, however, face lingering symptoms such as fatigue or respiratory problems.
	We are more sensitive to temperature than we thought, study reveals An experiment conducted by Laura Battistel involved the use of four temperature-controlled climate chambers, ranging from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius. Twenty-six participants were involved: 13 men and 13 women. Volunteers had to compare pairs of chambers, moving from one chamber to another, and then say which was warmer and which was colder.
	Study reveals new connection between impaired autophagy and heart failure A new study sheds light on how autophagy, the body's process for removing damaged cell parts, when impaired, can play a role in causing heart failure.
	Researchers find Boswellia, an extract of frankincense, shows anti-cancer activity in small trial Extracts of a plant used in traditional medicine for centuries have shown anti-proliferative effects against breast cancer in a small early-stage clinical trial.
	Early study shows health benefits of creative arts therapies and nutrition education for postmenopausal women Transition to the menopausal stage of women's lives can be a negative experience for women, with changes in emotional well-being and cardiovascular health that impact their quality of life. A recent study from Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions explored a new way to ease the transition with an art therapy intervention to address the health needs of overweight, postmenopausal women.
	Legal barriers to Medicaid remain upon release for many justice-involved individuals New data released today by the Center for Public Health Law Research (CPHLR) at Temple University Beasley School of Law point to continued legal barriers for justice-involved seeking continuity of care through Medicaid coverage upon their release from incarceration, a population much more likely to face risk of overdose or death from opioid use disorder.
	Altering key ion channel found to protect against pancreatitis-associated acute lung injury A group of Chinese researchers has conducted a mouse study to determine the role of Orai1, a membrane calcium-selective ion channel protein, in pancreatitis-associated acute lung injury.
	Flagging dementia patients for better hospital care Cedars-Sinai investigators are using electronic health records to identify hospitalized patients likely to have dementia. The method they developed, detailed in a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, is designed to help medical staff tailor care to best serve these patients.
	Rising malpractice premiums price small clinics out of gender-affirming care for minors After Iowa lawmakers passed a ban on gender-affirming care for minors in March, managers of an LGBTQ+ health clinic located just across the state line in Moline, Illinois, decided to start offering that care.
	Cervical cancer screening recommendations January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Each year, more than 11,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
	California offers a lifeline for medical residents who can't find abortion training Bria Peacock chose a career in medicine because the Black Georgia native saw the dire health needs in her community—including access to abortion care.
	COVID is surging in Australia—and only 1 in 5 older adults are up to date with their boosters Do you have family members or friends sick with a respiratory infection? If so, there's a good chance it's COVID, caused by the JN.1 variant currently circulating in Australia.
	Eczema website delivers for patients and the NHS A website that helps people with eczema to manage their symptoms could be saving the NHS hundreds of thousands of pounds, according to new research by the University of Southampton.
	Opinion: Seeing through the cigarette tax smokescreen The high taxes on tobacco are counterproductive in decreasing smoking. It only benefits the illegal cigarette trade—and its political masters.
	First-in-human vaccine trial for deadly Nipah virus launched The University of Oxford has launched a new clinical trial to test a vaccine to protect people against deadly Nipah virus.
	Touching a nerve in the fight against chronic pain and diseases The human body's longest cranial nerve has the potential to improve health on numerous fronts, according to researchers.
	From ancient apothecary to modern medicine Throughout history, humanity has used nature's pharmacy for healing. In exploring nature as a source of shelter and food, early humans fortuitously discovered the therapeutic properties of plants, with many of today's drugs having their roots in ancient knowledge.
	Novel PET tracer enhances lesion detection in medullary thyroid cancer, offers potential for targeted therapy A newly developed PET imaging agent has been found to be effective in identifying medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) in preclinical and clinical studies, according to new research. The results of the studies indicate that the PET imaging agent may be a promising theranostic candidate for clinical use.
	A call for improved CDC communication on adult immunization In an editorial in the Annals of Internal Medicine, CUNY SPH Distinguished Lecturer Scott Ratzan, Senior Scholar Ken Rabin, and colleagues call for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to "raise its persuasive communications game" on adult immunization to clinicians and the public. They argue that disseminating scientific information alone will not suffice in the present environment of disinformation and low trust in public health.
	Study reveals high prevalence of anemia with low rates of screening in Ireland A study by researchers at University of Limerick in Ireland has found high rates of anemia among patients in the Irish health system, while screening for common causes was found to be low.

Other Sciences news

	First prehistoric person with Turner syndrome identified from ancient DNA Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute, working with University of Oxford, University of York and Oxford Archaeology, have developed a new technique to measure the number of chromosomes in ancient genomes more precisely, using it to identify the first prehistoric person with mosaic Turner syndrome (characterized by one X chromosome instead of two [XX]), who lived about 2,500 years ago.
	A princess's psalter recovered? Pieces of a 1,000-year-old manuscript found A special find has been made in the Alkmaar Regional Archive: A number of 17th-century book bindings contained pieces of parchment from a manuscript from the 11th century. The original manuscript may have belonged to a princess who fled England after the Norman Conquest.
	Archeologists map lost cities in Ecuadorian Amazon, settlements that lasted 1,000 years Archeologists have uncovered a cluster of lost cities in the Amazon rainforest that was home to at least 10,000 farmers around 2,000 years ago.
	Why AI software 'softening' accents is problematic "Why isn't it a beautiful thing?" a puzzled Sharath Keshava Narayana asked of his AI device masking accents.
	Researcher: Mothers are more likely to work worse jobs—while fathers thrive in careers Having a child is bad for a woman's earnings. This is not only in the immediate period after the birth, but across her lifetime—as shown in research by recent economics Nobel prize-winner Claudia Goldin.
	'Legal animism': When a river or even nature itself goes to court On 30 March 2011, a truly unprecedented event took place at a provincial court in Loja, Equator, located some 270 miles from the capital of Quito. The Vilcabamba River, a plaintiff in a trial there, convinced the tribunal that its own rights were being undermined by a road development project. The project was then halted due because it would have jeopardized the river's flow.
	7 strategies to help gifted autistic students succeed in college About 1 out of every 100 students in American public schools has autism. A subset of these students also have academic gifts and talents in a broad range of areas, including math, science, technology, the humanities, and the arts. These students are often referred to as "twice exceptional."
	War in Europe is more than 5,000 years old, researchers find Conflict has existed throughout human history, and it has often been violent. Attacks, assassinations, raids, ambushes, and vendettas feature in archaeological records almost as far back as the origin of humankind itself. But not war.
	Do former regulators improve the quality of audits? In their auditing capacity, accounting firms, such as the "Big Four"—Deloitte, EY, KPMG and PWC—function as watchdogs for publicly traded companies. They're tasked with ensuring financial disclosures are accurate and above board. But who watches the watchdogs?
	Since Roe was overturned, fewer Michigan adults want to have children When the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, it created uncertainty for Americans' access to abortion and other forms of reproductive health care. This uncertainty may have led to an increase in the number of Michigan adults who said they never want to have children, according to Michigan State University researchers.
	Communicating about climate change more effective when stories of displaced hit 'close to home' Concern for climate change grows—along with support for policies to reduce emissions—when people read about Americans being forced to move within the U.S. because of it.
	Year-end survey spotlights food safety, age-related consumer behavior, out-of-stock trends Building off the previous month's survey, the December 2023 Consumer Food Insights Report digs deeper into the relationships between food-date labels and the decision to discard food. The report also explores generational differences in food behaviors and reviews 2023 trends for out-of-stock items and common foods that people reported limiting in their diets over the year.
	Female business leaders need better support to thrive in times of crisis Female-led businesses had a harder time bouncing back from the pandemic than firms run by men, according to new research from the University of Surrey. This was attributed to women having, on average, less access to external financial resources, weaker positions in professional networks, and generally being more exposed to personal constraints such as school closures.
	Deepen your empathy by reading more and reading more often, linguist says Reading stories regularly strengthens social-cognitive skills—such as empathy—in both children and adults. And this, in turn, ensures that we can empathize with characters more effectively and more quickly when we are reading. This is the subject of linguist Lynn Eekhof's Ph.D., which she will receive at Radboud University on 15 January. "I think we need to capitalize more on the wonder of what stories do, rather than merely seeing reading as a practical skill."
	Provincial policies on campus sexual violence are inconsistent across Canada, say researchers Incidents of campus-based sexual violence and gender-based violence are not new. Though, in the past decade, there has been increased awareness and action from campus administrations in response to campus sexual violence.
	How diverse are US ocean science institutions? A paper published Dec. 19 in Oceanography examines whether U.S. ocean science institutions are recruiting and retaining the diverse cadre of talent needed to address climate change, food security, sustainable development, and other pressing global challenges.
	Church without God: How secular congregations fill a need for some nonreligious Americans Shared testimonies, collective singing, silent meditation and baptism rituals—these are all activities you might find at a Christian church service on a Sunday morning in the United States. But what would it look like if atheists were gathering to do these rituals instead?
	#FreeBritney movement is proof social media can help shift the narrative, research finds When Britney Spears entered the public eye in the late 1990s, the media hailed her as a pop phenomenon. She signed her first record deal at the age of 15 and soon after released her first No. 1 hit, "Baby One More Time."
	Social scientist: While providing help inspires others, people would rather help a family member than a neighbor Doing the shopping for a neighbor, driving a friend to an appointment, helping an aunt with the garden: there are plenty of people who occasionally provide a little assistance. In her Ph.D. thesis, Marlou Ramaekers has shown that while providing help inspires others to do the same, we are more inclined to help family members than neighbors. Ramaekers will receive her Ph.D. at Radboud University on 12 January.
	Compensation can cover for loss of cultural heritage in construction projects, researcher finds Large construction projects in old cities often involve major interventions in the urban environment. In a new thesis from the University of Gothenburg, two strategies are analyzed for managing the cultural heritage when the excavators roll in: Preserve as much of the environment as possible or add new cultural values as compensation.
	Don't delay talking to girls about keeping safe online, says report Research from Anglia Ruskin University's Policing Institute for the Eastern Region (PIER) shows that two-way communication, as well as careful monitoring, is the most effective way to prepare girls to handle online requests for indecent images.

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