Science X Newsletter Mon, Feb 12

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Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for February 12, 2024:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

A scalable photoelectrochemical system for green hydrogen production

Researchers demonstrate multi-photon state transfer between remote superconducting nodes

Volcanism-induced ozone depletion may have contributed to Permian mass extinction, study finds

Dracula's Chivito: New protoplanetary disk discovered with Pan-STARRS

Using thermotropic liquid crystals to enhance the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar modules

A multi-ensemble atomic clock enhanced using quantum computing tools

Saturday Citations: Dark matter, a bug, and the marriageability of baritones

Immune genes are altered in Alzheimer's patients' blood

Harnessing human evolution to advance precision medicine

Quitting smoking at any age brings big health benefits, fast: Study

Researchers use satellites to analyze global reef biodiversity

Ocean system that moves heat gets closer to collapse, which could cause weather chaos, study says

Nearly half of the world's migratory species are in decline, UN report says

The hidden rule for flight feathers and how it could reveal which dinosaurs could fly

Widespread machine learning methods behind 'link prediction' are performing very poorly, researchers find

Nanotechnology news

	Scientists find new way to roll atomically thin nanosheets into scrolls Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have come up with a new way of rolling atomically thin sheets of atoms into "nanoscrolls." Their unique approach uses transition metal dichalcogenide sheets with a different composition on either side, realizing a tight roll that gives scrolls down to five nanometers in diameter at the center and micrometers in length. Control over nanostructure in these scrolls promises new developments in catalysis and photovoltaic devices.
	What did the electron 'say' to the phonon in the graphene sandwich? A TU/e and Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology-led collaboration involving researchers from around the world has the answer, and the why, and the results have been published in the journal Science Advances.
	Researchers design gel from wood pulp to heal damaged heart tissue, improve cancer treatments You can mend a broken heart this Valentine's Day now that researchers have invented a new hydrogel that can be used to heal damaged heart tissue and improve cancer treatments.
	A new approach to producing artificial cartilage with the help of 3D printing Is it possible to grow tissue in the laboratory, for example to replace injured cartilage? At TU Wien (Vienna), an important step has now been taken toward creating replacement tissue in the lab—using a technique that differs significantly from other methods used around the world. The study is published in Acta Biomaterialia.
	Breakthrough in single-photon integration holds promise for quantum computing, cryptography A recent study has unveiled a significant advancement toward the on-chip integration of single-photon sources at room temperature. This achievement represents a significant step forward in the field of quantum photonics and holds promise for various applications, including quantum computing, cryptography, and sensing.
	Developing data science approaches for nanoparticle synthesis Typically, researchers attempting to synthesize specifically targeted particles of materials have had to rely on intuition or trial-and-error methods. This approach can be inefficient, requiring significant time and resource investments.

Physics news

	Researchers demonstrate multi-photon state transfer between remote superconducting nodes Over the past few decades, quantum physicists and engineers have been trying to develop new, reliable quantum communication systems. These systems could ultimately serve as a testbed to evaluate and advance communication protocols.
	A multi-ensemble atomic clock enhanced using quantum computing tools Atomic clocks are a class of clocks that leverage resonance frequencies of atoms to keep time with high precision. While these clocks have become increasingly advanced and accurate over the years, existing versions might not best utilize the resources they rely on to keep time.
	Reshaping our understanding of granular systems Rochester researchers are uncovering the unexpected role of grain shape in the mixing of granular systems such as pharmaceuticals, cereal, and landslides.
	Measuring exciton 'holes': Insights into charge transfer at atomically thin interfaces between semiconductors Semiconductors are ubiquitous in modern technology, working to either enable or prevent the flow of electricity. In order to understand the potential of two-dimensional semiconductors for future computer and photovoltaic technologies, researchers from the Universities of Göttingen, Marburg and Cambridge investigated the bond that builds between the electrons and holes contained in these materials.
	The dynamics of deformable systems: Study unravels mathematical mystery of cable-like structures Are our bodies solid or liquid? We all know the convention—that solids maintain their shapes, while liquids fill the containers they're in. But often in the real world, those lines are blurred. Imagine walking on a beach. Sometimes the sand gives way under feet, deforming like a liquid, but when enough sand grains pack together, they can support weight like a solid surface.
	Flowermon: A superconducting qubit based on twisted cuprate van der Waals heterostructures Quantum technology could outperform conventional computers on some advanced optimization and computational tasks. In recent years, physicists have been working to identify new strategies to create quantum systems and promising qubits (i.e., basic units of information in quantum computers).
	How semiconductor defects could boost quantum technology In diamonds (and other semiconducting materials), defects are a quantum sensor's best friend. That's because defects, essentially a jostled arrangement of atoms, sometimes contain electrons with an angular momentum, or spin, that can store and process information. This "spin degree of freedom" can be harnessed for a range of purposes, such as sensing magnetic fields or making a quantum network.
	Scientists expand search for new particles at the Large Hadron Collider Since the 1960s, scientists have discovered more than a dozen fundamental particles. They all have fit perfectly into the theoretical framework known as the Standard Model, the best description physicists have of the subatomic world.

Earth news

	Volcanism-induced ozone depletion may have contributed to Permian mass extinction, study finds The concept of deadly mass extinctions wreaking destruction upon Earth's ecosystems millions of years ago is something that has fascinated the public and scientists alike for decades.
	Ocean system that moves heat gets closer to collapse, which could cause weather chaos, study says An abrupt shutdown of Atlantic Ocean currents that could put large parts of Europe in a deep freeze is looking a bit more likely and closer than before as a new complex computer simulation finds a "cliff-like" tipping point looming in the future.
	Global deforestation leads to more mercury pollution, finds study About 10% of human-made mercury emissions into the atmosphere each year are the result of global deforestation, according to a new MIT study.
	Using isotopic measurements on stalagmites to investigate 'climate hiccups' Climate changes usually happen over long periods of time, but during the last glacial period, extreme fluctuations in temperature occurred within just a few years. Researchers at the University of Basel have now been able to prove the phenomenon also occurred during the penultimate glacial period.
	Clouds disappear quickly during a solar eclipse, shows study Cumulus clouds over land start to disappear almost instantly during a partial solar eclipse. Until recently, satellite measurements during the eclipse resulted in dark spots in the cloud map, but researchers from TU Delft and KNMI were able to recover the satellite measurements by using a new method.
	Frequency of US blizzards may decline in coming decades, says study Vehicles in ditches and medians. Nights without power and heat. Injuries suffered. Lives lost. For those in the Midwest, where the frying pan of summer gives way to the snow globe of winter, the scenes of a blizzard are familiar for their frequency. Of the nearly 13,000 U.S. blizzards documented between 1996 and 2020, more than 10,000 struck the northern Plains and Upper Midwest.
	Scientists deepen understanding of ancient rivers Nebraska's rivers can be thought of as places for quiet contemplation, familiar local landmarks or as precious natural resources to be protected.
	Dial it up to Category 6? As warming stokes storms, some want a bigger hurricane category A handful of super powerful tropical storms in the last decade and the prospect of more to come has a couple of experts proposing a new category of whopper hurricanes: Category 6.
	'A deeply troubling discovery': Earth may have already passed the crucial 1.5°C warming limit Global temperatures have already exceeded 1.5°C warming and may pass 2°C later this decade, according to a world-first study I led. The worrying findings, based on temperature records contained in sea sponge skeletons, suggest global climate change has progressed much further than previously thought.
	El Niño is starting to lose strength after fueling a hot, stormy year. An atmospheric scientist explains what's ahead Wild weather has been roiling North America for the past few months, thanks in part to a strong El Niño that sent temperatures surging in 2023. The climate phenomenon fed atmospheric rivers drenching the West Coast and contributed to summer's extreme heat in the South and Midwest and fall's wet storms across the East.
	Weather v climate: How to make sense of an unusual cold snap while the world is hotter than ever Earlier this year, the UK's weather and climate service, the Met Office, announced average global temperatures in 2023 were 1.46°C above pre-industrial levels. This made it the hottest year on record, 0.17°C higher than the previous record in 2016.
	Andean farmers use age-old technique amid climate change From the sky, they look like huge, circular patterns made by aliens—but in fact, they are an age-old technique farmers have brought back to fight the climate crisis on the Andean plateaus of Puno.
	Scientists warn of current 'tipping point' in Atlantic Ocean: 'Significant' effects on climate A critical system of Atlantic Ocean currents may be approaching collapse, which scientists warn will have a dangerous impact on our global climate.
	Clear evidence aquifer exploitation is causing serious impacts on the most iconic national park in Spain A team led by the Doñana Biological Station and the Geological and Mining Institute of the Spanish National Research Council has reviewed more than 70 studies related to groundwater and the conservation status of one of Europe's most iconic wetlands, Doñana, in southern Spain.
	Melting ice roads cut off Indigenous communities in northern Canada Melting ice roads cut off Indigenous communities in Canada's far north as unseasonably warm weather on Friday also saw its largest city, Toronto, break a winter heat record.
	Polluted paradise: Chile town waits for cleanup as coal shuts off With its emerald green waters and white sands, the small town of Mejillones in northern Chile looks deceptively like a typical seaside resort.

Astronomy and Space news

	Dracula's Chivito: New protoplanetary disk discovered with Pan-STARRS By analyzing the images obtained with the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS), astronomers have serendipitously discovered a new protoplanetary disk located some 800 light years away. The finding was reported in a paper published February 1 on the pre-print server arXiv.
	SETI Institute employs a novel ellipsoid technique when searching for signals from distant civilizations A team of researchers from the SETI Institute, Berkeley SETI Research Center and the University of Washington reported an exciting development for the field of astrophysics and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), using observations from the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) mission to monitor the SETI Ellipsoid, a method for identifying potential signals from advanced civilizations in the cosmos.
	Scientists identify water molecules on asteroids for the first time Using data from the retired Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA)—a joint project of NASA and the German Space Agency at DLR—Southwest Research Institute scientists have discovered, for the first time, water molecules on the surface of an asteroid. Scientists looked at four silicate-rich asteroids using the FORCAST instrument to isolate the mid-infrared spectral signatures indicative of molecular water on two of them.
	Which came first: Black holes or galaxies? Black holes not only existed at the dawn of time, they birthed new stars and supercharged galaxy formation, a new analysis of James Webb Space Telescope data suggests.
	Saturn's Death Star-looking moon may have vast underground ocean Astronomers have found the best evidence yet of a vast, young ocean beneath the icy exterior of Saturn's Death Star lookalike mini moon.
	US military hopes one day to move supplies, maybe troops, on SpaceX's Starship While NASA is rooting for SpaceX to achieve Starship success so it can land humans on the moon, the U.S. military has plans of their own for the massive rocket that could include launches from Florida's Space Coast.
	An astronomer's lament: Satellite megaconstellations are ruining space exploration I used to love rocket launches when I was younger. During every launch, I imagined what it would feel like to be an astronaut sitting in the spacecraft, listening to that final countdown and then feeling multiple gees push me up through the atmosphere and away from our blue marble.
	Meet NASA's twin spacecraft headed to the ends of the Earth Two new miniature NASA satellites will start crisscrossing Earth's atmosphere in a few months, detecting heat lost to space. Their observations from the planet's most bone-chilling regions will help predict how our ice, seas, and weather will change in the face of global warming.
	Sense the solar eclipse with NASA's eclipse soundscapes project When darkness sweeps across the landscape during a total solar eclipse, unusual things start happening. Fooled by the false dusk, birds stop singing, crickets start chirping, and bees return to their hives.
	Turkey hails its first astronaut who returned from a 3-week mission to International Space Station Turkey's first astronaut returned home to a hero's welcome Monday, portrayed as a symbol of the country's advances in technology and aerospace.
	Astronauts from NASA's Expedition 71 to conduct research aboard space station Studies of neurological organoids, plant growth, and shifts in body fluids are among the scientific investigations that NASA astronauts Matthew Dominick, Michael Barratt, Jeanette Epps, and Tracy C. Dyson will help support aboard the International Space Station as part of Expedition 71. The crew members are targeting launch to the space station in February and March.

Technology news

	A scalable photoelectrochemical system for green hydrogen production If realized using solar energy or other renewable energy, water splitting could be a promising way of sustainably producing hydrogen (H2) on a large-scale. Most photoelectrochemical water splitting systems proposed so far, however, have been found to be either inefficient, unstable, or difficult to implement on a large-scale.
	Using thermotropic liquid crystals to enhance the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar modules Solar panels and photovoltaics (PVs) are becoming increasingly widespread, contributing to ongoing efforts aimed at decarbonizing electricity production. Solar cells based on perovskites, a class of minerals that can leverage parts of the solar spectrum, have recently achieved highly promising energy conversion efficiencies and stabilities.
	Widespread machine learning methods behind 'link prediction' are performing very poorly, researchers find As you scroll through any social media feed, you are likely to be prompted to follow or friend another person, expanding your personal network and contributing to the growth of the app itself. The person suggested to you is a result of link prediction: a widespread machine learning (ML) task that evaluates the links in a network—your friends and everyone else's—and tries to predict what the next links will be.
	Engineers build robot swarm that can assemble and repair its shape in a distributed manner Researchers have proposed a new strategy for the shape assembly of robot swarms based on the idea of mean-shift exploration: When a robot is surrounded by neighboring robots and unoccupied locations, it actively gives up its current location by exploring the highest density of nearby unoccupied locations in the desired shape.
	Novel robot mimics insects' optics-to-neurons pathway With a brain the size of a pinhead, insects perform fantastic navigational feats. They avoid obstacles and move through small openings. How do they do this with their limited brain power? Understanding the inner workings of an insect's brain can help us in our search towards energy-efficient computing; physicist Elisabetta Chicca of the University of Groningen demonstrates with her most recent result: a robot that acts like an insect.
	Are shape-shifting 'soft machines' in our future? Scientists advance light-responsive material Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have furthered a new type of soft material that can change shape in response to light, a discovery that could advance "soft machines" for a variety of fields, from robotics to medicine.
	Research pinpoints factors for better battery design You've probably experienced the dread of a suddenly dead phone that is glacially slow to recharge. Add to that earbuds or laptops that die at the most inconvenient times. And perhaps you've delayed shopping for an electric car because of limited cruise range (or high price). These battery breakdowns and charge collapses are because of shortcomings in the lithium-ion batteries powering today's technology.
	There is no proof that AI can be controlled, researcher warns There is no current evidence that AI can be controlled safely, according to an extensive review, and without proof that AI can be controlled, it should not be developed, a researcher warns.
	How ancient sea creatures can inform soft robotics Soft robotics is the study of creating robots from soft materials, which has the advantage of flexibility and safety in human interactions. These robots are well-suited for applications ranging from medical devices to enhancing efficiency in various tasks. Additionally, using different forms of robotic movement may also serve us well in exploring the ocean or space, or doing certain jobs in those environments.
	How secure is your security camera? Hackers can spy on cameras through walls, new research finds When it comes to protecting a bank or even your home, security cameras are on one of the first lines of defense. But what if those cameras aren't as secure as we all think?
	Keeping it real: How to spot a deepfake In a world where you can create a virtual clone of a person in a matter of minutes, how do we know what's real? It may sound like dystopian science fiction, but deepfakes are a reality causing serious social, financial and personal harm.
	AI in the developing world: How 'tiny machine learning' can have a big impact The landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) applications has traditionally been dominated by the use of resource-intensive servers centralized in industrialized nations. However, recent years have witnessed the emergence of small, energy-efficient devices for AI applications, a concept known as tiny machine learning (TinyML).
	From doinks to SpongeBob, technology to play a huge role in the CBS presentation of the Super Bowl Inspiration sometimes happens, or in this case, doinks, at the most opportune times.
	Elon Musk's Neuralink moves legal home to Nevada after Delaware judge invalidates his Tesla pay deal Elon Musk's brain implant company Neuralink has moved its legal corporate home from Delaware to Nevada after a Delaware judge struck down Musk's $55.8 billion pay package as CEO of Tesla.
	Jeff Bezos sells nearly 12 million Amazon shares worth at least $2 billion, with more to come Jeff Bezos filed a statement with federal regulators indicating his sale of nearly 12 million shares of Amazon stock worth more than $2 billion.
	Fitness trackers find new symptom of depression—body temperature When a group of California researchers started a COVID-19 study in 2020 using fitness tracking rings, they didn't know they would make a leap forward for an entirely different condition.
	Quantum research sheds light on the mystery of high-temperature superconductivity An international team of scientists has made a new discovery that may help to unlock the microscopic mystery of high-temperature superconductivity and address the world's energy problems.
	Innovative coating prevents limescale formation Hot water tanks, washing machines, kettles: limescale forms in every domestic appliance that comes into contact with (hot) water—especially in areas where the water is hard, meaning high in calcium. Often the only thing that helps is to use vinegar or a special descaler to dissolve the rock-hard deposits and restore the appliance's functionality.
	AI is everywhere—including countless applications you've likely never heard of Artificial intelligence (AI) is seemingly everywhere. Right now, generative AI in particular—tools like Midjourney, ChatGPT, Gemini (previously Bard) and others—is at the peak of hype.
	AI: A way to freely share technology and stop misuse already exists There are lots of proposed ways to try to place limits on artificial intelligence (AI), because of its potential to cause harm in society, as well as its benefits.
	US 'pause' on future liquefied gas exports throws doubt on fossil fuel's place in energy transition Since the first cargo of American liquefied natural gas (LNG) left a terminal on the Gulf of Mexico bound for Brazil in February 2016, US exports of the fuel have boomed. In 2023 the US was both the world's largest producer of natural gas and its largest exporter of LNG, with exports that year totaling 86 million tons.
	Mobileye CEO Shashua expects more autonomous vehicles on the road in 2 years as tech moves ahead Six years ago, automakers and tech companies thought they were on the cusp of putting thousands of self-driving robotaxis on the street to carry passengers without a human driver.
	France suspends subsidized electric car scheme after surge The French government said Monday it was suspending a scheme to lease electric cars from just 100 euros ($109) a month after subsidizing more than double the number of vehicles planned for 2024.
	'Better than a real man': young Chinese women turn to AI boyfriends Twenty-five-year-old Chinese office worker Tufei says her boyfriend has everything she could ask for in a romantic partner: he's kind, empathetic, and sometimes they talk for hours.
	Chile on green hydrogen investment hunt in Europe Chile is embarking on a European hunt for investors in solar, wind and green hydrogen technologies as it looks to decarbonize copper mines and other industries reliant on fossil fuels.
	How automation is assisting forensic scientists in shoe print identification On the morning of Dec. 21, 1999, William Fyfe went to a clothing drop-off at Trinity Church in Toronto and left three pairs of running shoes. An undercover Ontario Provincial Police officer was tailing him, and retrieved the shoes for forensic analysis.
	Pure Storage, Google trim Bay Area jobs in widening tech industry cuts High-profile tech companies, including Google and Pure Storage, have decided to conduct a fresh round of Bay Area job cuts that will affect hundreds of jobs in the region, state records show.
	Amazon lands an exclusive NFL playoff game for streaming next season Amazon is getting its turn to exclusively stream an NFL playoff game.
	Elon Musk must testify in SEC Twitter probe, court rules A federal court in California is enforcing a subpoena for Elon Musk to testify before the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission regarding potential violations of federal securities laws in connection with his purchase of Twitter.

Chemistry news

	Researchers develop eco-friendly 'magnet' to battle microplastics Plastic pollution is a pressing environmental issue, and University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment researchers are leading the charge with an innovative solution.
	How 'have you tried turning it off and on again?' works for chemistry, not just computers A new study from Tel Aviv University has discovered that a known practice in information technology can also be applied to chemistry. Researchers found that to enhance the sampling in chemical simulations, all you need to do is stop and restart.
	Vanadium research makes key advance for capturing carbon from the air A chemical element so visually striking it was named for a goddess shows a "Goldilocks" level of reactivity—neither too much nor too little—that makes it a strong candidate as a carbon scrubbing tool.
	Supercomputing the secrets inside cattle antibiotics Chemists have determined for the first time the crystal structure of a key component of the monensin enzyme and have unlocked the mechanism of its reaction activity.
	Team demonstrates fabrication method to construct 3D structures that mimic bone microstructure Scientists have combined laser 3D printing technology and an alternate soaking process to construct complex 3D structures that mimic bone microstructure. This is the first demonstration of this fabrication method, and it will lead to the development of 3D cell culture systems that can support bone grafts or create artificial bone marrow.
	What is micellar water and how does it work? Micellar water, a product found in supermarkets, chemists and bathroom cabinets around the world, is commonly used to remove make-up. It's a very effective cleanser and many people swear by it as part of their skincare routine.
	Your unique smell can provide clues about how healthy you are Hundreds of chemicals stream from our bodies into the air every second. These chemicals release into the air easily as they have high vapor pressures, meaning they boil and turn into gases at room temperature. They give clues about who we are, and how healthy we are.
	Chemists create an emission molecular thermometer Future technologies rely on phenomena that were previously considered the exclusive domain of theoretical physics or chemistry. For example, the approach to devices with high-density information storage arose when chemists discovered single-molecule magnets—unusual complexes of transition metals and lanthanides. In addition, several lanthanide compounds exhibit temperature-dependent luminescence properties.

Biology news

	Researchers use satellites to analyze global reef biodiversity Researchers used Earth-orbiting satellites to map coral reef biodiversity at a global scale to show that areas of high habitat diversity also have high species diversity. This new satellite mapping technique can help guide future efforts to identify and protect highly biodiverse reefs, according to the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science research team that conducted the study.
	Nearly half of the world's migratory species are in decline, UN report says Nearly half of the world's migratory species are in decline, according to a new United Nations report released Monday.
	The hidden rule for flight feathers and how it could reveal which dinosaurs could fly Birds can fly—at least, most of them can. Flightless birds like penguins and ostriches have evolved lifestyles that don't require flight. However, there's a lot that scientists don't know about how the wings and feathers of flightless birds differ from their airborne cousins.
	New study on decomposing microbes could help transform forensic science For the first time, researchers have identified what appears to be a network of approximately 20 microbes that universally drive the decomposition of animal flesh. The findings have significant implications for the future of forensic science, including the potential to provide crime scene investigators with a more precise way to determine a body's time of death.
	Researchers uncover a key link in legume plant-bacteria symbiosis Legume plants have the unique ability to interact with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil, known as rhizobia. Legumes and rhizobia engage in symbiotic relations upon nitrogen starvation, allowing the plant to thrive without the need for externally supplied nitrogen.
	Light duty: Distinct molecular pathways control growth, flowering in plants It's well known that plants have a fine-tuned ability to sense changes in the season by how much daylight they're exposed to, yet scientists observed more than a century ago that plants sometimes grow during one season and flower in another. Most research in the decades since, however, has focused on seasonal flowering, leaving that classic observation unstudied.
	Study shows pesticide spread in an alpine ecosystem from the valley to the summit region The Venosta Valley is located in South Tyrol, which is primarily associated with mountains and nature. In this region in the North of Italy, more than 7,000 apple growers produce 10% of all European apples. Conventional apple cultivation relies primarily on synthetic pesticides, which are applied by fan-assisted sprayers: insecticides to combat pests such as the codling moth and fungicides against fungal diseases that cause scabs on the fruit. This results in a high level of drift into the environment, especially in windy conditions.
	Nutrients direct intestinal stem cell function and affect aging, finds study Researchers at the University of Helsinki have discovered a new mechanism of action between the nutrient adaptation of intestinal stem cells and aging. The finding may make a difference when seeking ways to maintain the functional capacity of the aging gut.
	Study could lead to improved mussel production New research by the University of Stirling's Institute of Aquaculture could help improve mussel farming practices and lead to increased production.
	Study reveals winners and losers from climate and land-use change New research from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Northumbria University has determined that as warm-loving species expand their ranges under climate change, Britain's landscapes are losing their biological uniqueness.
	It began with a bite: Five dazzling new species of eyelash vipers discovered in Colombia and Ecuador A group of scientists led by researchers of from the Khamai Foundation discovered five dazzling new species of eyelash vipers in the jungles and cloud forests of Colombia and Ecuador. This discovery was made official in a study published in Evolutionary Systematics.
	Genetic analysis and archaeological insight combine to reveal the ancient origins of the fallow deer Modern populations of fallow deer possess hidden cultural histories dating back to the Roman Empire, which should be factored into decisions around their management and conservation.
	Bizarre snake-like worm's secrets revealed in CT scans Amphisbaenians are strange creatures. Like worms with vertebrae, scales, a large central tooth and sometimes small forearms, these reptiles live underground, burrowing tunnels and preying on just about anything they encounter, not unlike a miniature version of the monstrous sandworms from "Dune."
	Drought may drive deadly amphibian disease, researchers find Pumpkin toadlets are in trouble. Progressively severe droughts are disrupting the microbiomes of the thumbnail-sized orange frogs, potentially leaving them vulnerable to a deadly fungal disease, according to a new study by an international research team. The finding suggests that abnormal rainfall patterns, which are expected to worsen due to climate change and deforestation, may upset mutually beneficial relationships between wildlife and microorganisms, leading to biodiversity decline.
	Noxious fumes at night aren't a pollinating moth's delight Certain plants have flowers that open only in the evening, and depend on nocturnal pollinators such as moths to thrive.
	The complete library of Charles Darwin revealed for the first time Charles Darwin—arguably the most influential man of science in history, accumulated a vast personal library throughout his working life. Until now, 85% of its contents were unknown or unpublished.
	New 3D printing method uses ice to build a template for artificial blood vessels in engineered tissue Over 100,000 individuals in the United States are currently in need of organ transplants. The demand for organs, such as hearts, kidneys, and livers, far exceeds the available supply and people sometimes wait years to receive a donated organ. Approximately 6,000 Americans die while waiting each year.
	What it's like counting 528,000 albatross nests on Midway islands Nancy Caruso sat on an island in the North Pacific Ocean just inches from an albatross and watched as the large black-and-white sea bird with a 12-foot wingspan added grass to its nest to cover up a precious 4-inch white egg.
	Permaculture showed us how to farm the land more gently. Can we do the same as we farm the sea? As wild fish and other marine species get scarcer from overfishing and demand for 'blue foods' grows around the world, farming of the ocean is growing rapidly. Fish, kelp, prawns, oysters and more are now widely farmed. The world now eats more farmed seafood than wild-caught.
	The good news: 25 Australian birds are now at less risk of extinction. The bad news: 29 are gone and 4 more might be What does it mean to save threatened species? How often do we achieve it? And how often do we fail? Our new research answers these questions for Australian birds.
	First Peoples' land overlaps with 130 imperiled bird species—and this knowledge may be vital to saving them Australia's First Peoples have a strong and continuing connection to the land. Their determination to maintain this connection provides important opportunities for conservation.
	In the Cerrado, crop diversification has beneficial effects on wildlife and reduces the presence of boars There are no substitutes for native vegetation, but replacing large areas of monoculture with diversified crops in places where agricultural activities are widespread can have beneficial effects on the mammals that still inhabit the region.
	Morocco dinosaur discovery gives clues on why they went extinct 66 million years ago, the last dinosaurs vanished from Earth. We're still trying to understand why. New fossils of abelisaurs—distant relatives of the tyrannosaurs—from north Africa suggest that African dinosaurs remained diverse up to the very end. And that suggests their demise came suddenly, with the impact of a giant asteroid.
	Botany research discovery could optimize production of annatto powder Researchers at the University of São Paulo's Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (ESALQ-USP) and the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV) in Brazil have shown for the first time that bixin or annatto powder, a carotenoid pigment extracted from the seeds of the achiote or annatto tree (Bixa orellana), is not produced only in the seeds but also in other organs, and that the process intensifies in the plant's adult phase.
	Understanding chronic wasting disease in deer Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a transmissible, neurodegenerative disorder in deer that causes inability to eat, stumbling, drooling, and lack of fear of humans, and in all cases is ultimately fatal. "You can have deer that are infected live for two or more years, and it can take a very long time before they show clinical signs of it," says Michelle Gibison, diagnostic laboratory testing manager at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine's Wildlife Futures Program. That means they can infect other deer in that time.
	A new anti-aging pill for senior dogs just entered clinical trials. Could it one day help humans live longer? For most dog owners, their four-legged friends are more than a trusty companion. They are practically members of the family.
	Report warns migratory fish, mammals and birds at risk of extinction Risks to migrating mammals, birds and fishes are rising, a landmark report has warned.
	Examining the range of adulterants that disrupt the hormones of fish and amphibians The contraceptive pill is obviously not intended for fish and frogs. However, the hormones in the pill and other pharmaceuticals that are not completely broken down in sewage treatment plants can affect aquatic organisms.
	Increased rainfall threatens UK sea urchins: Study Sea urchins exposed to diluted seawater for long periods show signs of physical deterioration, according to scientists from the British Antarctic Survey, the University of Cambridge, and the Scottish Association for Marine Science. Their study also found that even slight changes in salinity—or saltiness—trigger changes in urchin behavior as they try to cope with their new conditions.
	Rare marbled godwit dies soon after drawing admirers in Vermont: What happened? Excited nature lovers flocked to a tiny town from all across the state of Vermont last September, wildlife officials said. They all came to see one rare sight: a marbled godwit.
	Wolves are back in Colorado's wilderness: Here's why that's great for Earth For the first time in U.S. history, a federally listed endangered species has been reintroduced to the wild by the efforts of a lone state. Wolves in Colorado were not a mandate from Washington, D.C.; Coloradans voted for them.
	Speed baiting: New report offers strategy for increasingly crowded Utah fishing There may, as they say, be plenty of fish in the sea—but angling opportunities on Utah's streams, rivers and lakes are getting more crowded.
	Is there a new deep-sea fishery on the horizon? The world's oceans contain huge volumes of unexploited resource species living at depths between 200 and 1,000 meters in the so-called mesopelagic zone. They have the potential to provide humans with valuable resources such as oils and proteins, and much more.
	What motivates forest owners to engage in early harvesting? Data from Norway's National Forest Inventory and from the forest authorities' quality monitoring regime show that over 25% of the forests in Norway are harvested before reaching maturity class 5, the development stage where the forests are normally considered ready for the final harvest.

Medicine and Health news

	Immune genes are altered in Alzheimer's patients' blood A new Northwestern Medicine study has found the immune system in the blood of Alzheimer's patients is epigenetically altered. That means the patients' behavior or environment has caused changes that affect the way their genes work.
	Harnessing human evolution to advance precision medicine Humans are still evolving, and Tatum Simonson, Ph.D., founder and co-director of the Center for Physiological Genomics of Low Oxygen at University of California School of Medicine, plans to use evolution to improve health care for all.
	Quitting smoking at any age brings big health benefits, fast: Study People who quit smoking see major gains in life expectancy after just a few years, according to a new study by University of Toronto researchers at Unity Health Toronto.
	Scientists discover biological mechanism of hearing loss caused by loud noise, and find a way to prevent it Anyone who has ever been to a loud concert knows the feeling of ringing ears. Some people experience temporary or even permanent hearing loss or drastic changes in their perception of sound after the loud noises stop. Thanos Tzounopoulos, Ph.D., director of the Pittsburgh Hearing Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has focused his scientific career on investigating how hearing works and developing ways to treat tinnitus and hearing loss.
	Machine learning promises to accelerate metabolism research A new study shows that it is possible to use machine learning and statistics to address a problem that has long hindered the field of metabolomics: large variations in the data collected at different sites.
	Sister cells uncover pre-existing resistant states in cancer In many cancers, such as ovarian cancer, each round of chemotherapy kills the majority of cancer cells, while a small population of them survives through treatment. These cells are typically more resistant for the next cycle of therapy and can thus regrow to a deadly, treatment resistant tumor.
	A flicker of truth: Piercing the 'continuity illusion' A study by a team at the Champalimaud Foundation (CF) has cast a new light on the superior colliculus (SC), a deep-seated brain structure often overshadowed by its more prominent cortical neighbor. Their discovery uncovers how the SC may play a pivotal role in how animals see the world in motion, and sheds light on the "continuity illusion," an essential perceptual process integral to many of our daily activities, from driving vehicles to watching movies.
	Researchers find response to ketamine depends on opioid pathways, but varies by sex Ketamine, increasingly popular as a treatment for depression and pain, is often prescribed as an alternative to addictive opioids. But the data has been mixed on whether ketamine's effects rely on similar brain pathways as opioids. New research by Stanford Medicine scientists suggests that the confusion may have to do with an overlooked factor—sex.
	New approach combines oncolytic virotherapy and adoptive T cell therapy for cancer treatment A multi-institutional team of Chinese microbiologists and pharmacologists has developed a novel way to fight cancerous tumors. Called ONCOTECH, it combines oncolytic virotherapy and adoptive T cell therapy for treatment of patients with cancerous tumors. The study is published in the journal Nature Biotechnology.
	Rainwater significantly reduces damage from lightning strikes to the head: Study Research at the Technical University of Ilmenau has shown that rainwater on the scalp can reduce damage caused by direct lightning strikes to the head. When the scalp is wet, fewer impacts are recorded compared to dry scalp, and the wetness also reduces the electrical current to which the brain is exposed.
	Protein modifications found to be key influencers in neurodegenerative diseases Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, present a significant health challenge, affecting over 50 million people globally. One common feature of these diseases is the accumulation of misfolded protein aggregates in the brain, known as amyloid fibrils, which disrupt normal cell function and eventually lead to cell death.
	Study reveals microbiome changes linked to autism spectrum disorder Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by decreased social communication and repetitive behaviors, has long intrigued scientists seeking to unravel its underlying mechanisms. Researchers from the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University have now identified a potential link between ASD and the composition of the gut microbiome.
	Newly discovered brain cells play a key role in right and left turns Have you ever wondered what happens in the brain when we move to the right or left? Most people don't; they just do it without thinking about it. But this simple movement is actually controlled by a complex process.
	Study suggests tai chi is better at reducing high blood pressure than aerobic exercise A large team of medical researchers affiliated with several institutions in China reports that volunteers engaging regularly in tai chi for one year saw greater reductions in their systolic blood pressure than did volunteers engaging for one year in aerobic exercises. Their study is published in the journal JAMA Network Open.
	Using citizens' data securely in research: COVID-19 data donation projects show how it can be done Smartphones, smartwatches and associated apps are constantly improving their ability to record and store personal health data. The initial proposal for the EU law for a European Health Data Space in 2022 would allow depersonalized health and wellness data to be shared without explicit consent in the future. There has been understandable pushback against it—not just from data protection officers.
	Protein biomarkers predict dementia 15 years before diagnosis, according to new study In the largest study of its kind, scientists have shown how protein "biomarkers" predict dementia 15 years before diagnosis.
	Researchers identify brain hub with key role in learned response to direct and indirect threats Scientists have identified an area within the brain's frontal cortex that may coordinate an animal's response to potentially traumatic situations. Understanding where and how neural circuits involving the frontal cortex regulate such functions, and how such circuits could malfunction, may provide insight about their role in trauma-related and stress-related psychiatric disorders in people. The study, led by scientists at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), a part of the National Institutes of Health, was published in Nature.
	Multimodal AI model may guide personalized treatments for tuberculosis A team of University of Michigan researchers has developed a multimodal AI model to predict treatment outcomes of tuberculosis (TB) patients. Their analysis of worldwide patient data may lead to personalization of TB treatment.
	Researchers offer new insights into how antibodies function against herpes simplex virus Findings from a new study conducted by a team of researchers at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine and Thayer School of Engineering and published in Cell Reports Medicine offer new insights into how antibodies function in combating herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. The research may lead to possible new treatments for neonatal herpes.
	How a standard blood test can predict a heart attack Using the results of a standard blood test and an online tool, you can find out if you are at increased risk of having a heart attack within six months. The tool has been developed by a research group at Uppsala University in the hope of increasing patients' motivation to change their lifestyles.
	Novel bispecific design improves CAR T–cell immunotherapy for childhood leukemia St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists have improved chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T–cell immunotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), demonstrating better efficacy in the lab.
	Research team discovers genetic cause of low birth weight among children conceived after fertility treatment VUB professor Claudia Spits, of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel Reproduction and Genetics research group, has identified a genetic cause for the increased risk of low birth weight in babies born following assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF.
	AI-supported image analysis: How metrics determine quality More and more areas of medicine are relying on support from artificial intelligence (AI). This is particularly true for the wide range of questions based on the evaluation of image data: for example, doctors search mammograms for the tiny foci of cancer or calculate the volume of a brain tumor based on the tomographic images from an MRI.
	Older adults rely more on trust in decision-making. It could open them up to scams Each year, older adults lose more than $28 billion to financial scams targeting the elderly. Nearly three-quarters of that money is stolen by people the elderly adult knows—people they trust.
	Reducing harmful health screenings and overtreatment in older adults When a doctor ordered a routine prostate screening for an 80-year-old man—as doctors often do—a dramatic yellow alert popped up on the electronic health record with dire warnings.
	Faster mpox testing through CRISPR Mpox is a rare viral disease that is spread through physical contact between people. Currently, testing for mpox requires lab equipment and can take a few hours to get test results. But new research suggests a way for faster testing that could be done in any clinic soon.
	Using ion beams to improve brain microscopy Improving the way scientists can see the microscopic structures of the brain can improve our understanding of a host of brain diseases, like Alzheimer's or multiple sclerosis. Studying these diseases is challenging and has been limited by accuracy of available models.
	Physical activity may lessen pain intensity for cancer survivors People who have had cancer often experience ongoing pain, but a new study reveals that being physically active may help lessen its intensity. The study is published in Cancer.
	Study finds adolescents with concussion may benefit from more activity earlier Researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital have found that when it comes to concussion recovery, activity type matters. In a study published in British Journal of Sports Medicine, researchers found that limiting screen time and returning to school early following a concussion may speed up recovery.
	Why ventilators can be tough on premature babies' lungs Many premature infants need mechanical ventilation to breathe. However, prolonged ventilation can lead to problems like respiratory diseases or ventilation-induced injury.
	Study highlights financial burden of dementia on older adults, families A new study that provides details on out-of-pocket expenses for people with dementia finds that costs for long-term care create a financial burden that can easily consume nearly all their income.
	Cognitive benefits seen two years after bariatric surgery Bariatric surgery (BS) is associated with cognitive benefits two years after surgery, according to a study published online Feb. 9 in JAMA Network Open.
	Triplet therapy including belamaf prolongs survival in multiple myeloma For patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), triplet therapy of belantamab mafodotin (belamaf) plus bortezomib and dexamethasone (BVd) improves outcomes, with an acceptable safety profile, according to a study presented during the February 2024 session of the American Society for Clinical Oncology Plenary Series.
	Heart attack symptoms in women are often different than men Sweating, nausea, dizziness and unusual fatigue may not sound like typical heart attack symptoms. However, they are common for women and may occur more often when resting or asleep.
	You could lie to a health chatbot—but it might change how you perceive yourself Imagine that you are on the waiting list for a non-urgent operation. You were seen in the clinic some months ago, but still don't have a date for the procedure. It is extremely frustrating, but it seems that you will just have to wait.
	Gut microbiome: Meet Asaccharobacter celatus—the brain health bug There's a great deal of interest from scientists and the public alike in how we can keep our minds sharp and our brains healthy as we get older.
	Having COVID-19 and Long COVID can impact women's sex lives From work to school to socializing, COVID-19 has impacted just about every part of our lives—and now Boston University research has shown that also includes what happens in the bedroom. A study of more than 2,000 cisgender women found the coronavirus disease can impair sexual function, with long COVID having an especially detrimental effect.
	Blocking artery supplying the brain covering after subdural hematoma reduced repeat surgery Injection of a substance to block an artery feeding the dura (protective sack around the brain) along with surgery to remove pooled blood reduced the risk that patients will require repeat surgery compared to surgical drainage alone, according to preliminary late-breaking science presented today at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting, held in person in Phoenix Feb. 7—9, 2024, is a world premier meeting for researchers and clinicians dedicated to the science of stroke and brain health.
	Researchers start to find clues on the trail of long COVID Tens of millions of people across the world are thought to suffer from long COVID, but four years after the pandemic was declared this elusive condition still cannot be tested for—let alone treated.
	Brazil launches dengue vaccination amid outbreak Brazil launched a dengue fever immunization campaign Friday, becoming the first country in the world to provide the vaccine through its public health system as it deals with a surge in cases.
	Schools are trying to get more students therapy. Not all parents are on board Derry Oliver was in fifth grade when she first talked to her mom about seeing a therapist.
	Is housing health care? State Medicaid programs increasingly say 'yes' States are plowing billions of dollars into a high-stakes health care experiment that's exploding around the country: using scarce public health insurance money to provide housing for the poorest and sickest Americans.
	Tuberculosis cases rise, but public health agencies say they lack the resources to keep up Until COVID-19, tuberculosis was the world's deadliest infectious disease, killing about 1.5 million people annually.
	Halfway through 'unwinding,' Medicaid enrollment is down about 10 million Halfway through what will be the biggest purge of Medicaid beneficiaries in a one-year span, enrollment in the government-run health insurance program is on track to return to roughly pre-pandemic levels.
	Study shows how AI can predict prognosis after lumbar disk herniation surgery Machine learning models can inform patients and clinicians about prognosis after lumbar disk herniation surgery, according to a study published online Feb. 7 in JAMA Network Open.
	Home lighting tied to activity levels in adults with visual impairment The home environment, particularly lighting, may influence home activity metrics in older adults with visual impairment, according to a study published online Feb. 8 in JAMA Ophthalmology.
	Online physical, mental rehab aids quality of life with long COVID An online, home-based group physical and mental health rehabilitation program improves health-related quality of life in adults with long COVID, according to a study published online Feb. 7 in The BMJ.
	Obesity medicine's foggy future is getting clearer The biggest quandary in the obesity drug market is that nobody knows just how big it will be. Everyone agrees it'll be huge—currently, Eli Lilly & Co. is worth more than Tesla Inc., and Novo Nordisk A/S is at times the most valuable company in Europe. But just how many people will eventually take drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound, better known by the names of their diabetes counterparts Ozempic and Mounjaro? How long do patients need to stay on the drugs? Will the market be merely massive, or truly gargantuan?
	Massachusetts doctors push for measles vaccination after cases reported in several states Local doctors are urging families to get vaccinated against measles following a troubling rise in measles cases across several U.S. states and Europe.
	Study shows salt substitutes help to maintain healthy blood pressure in older adults The replacement of regular salt with a salt substitute can reduce incidences of hypertension, or high blood pressure, in older adults without increasing their risk of low blood pressure episodes, according to a recent study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. People who used a salt substitute had a 40% lower incidence and likelihood of experiencing hypertension compared to those who used regular salt.
	Risk of death found to be higher for non-white children in England Twelve percent of infant deaths in England could be avoided if all infants in England had the same risk of death as white infants, a new University of Bristol-led study shows. Such a change, which equates to more than 200 deaths per year, would bring England—which currently has one of the highest infant mortality rates in Europe—in line with other EU nations.
	Exposing hiding lymphoma cells to the immune system A study led by the group of Didier Trono at EPFL has revealed a crucial survival tactic employed by cancer cells. The scientists have identified a group of proteins, known as "KRAB zinc finger proteins" (KZFPs), that help cancer cells maintain genetic stability and avoid immune system detection. The study is published in Cancer Research.
	Programmable hydrogels could herald a new era in wound care Hydrogels are engineered materials that absorb and retain water and are currently used in various medical treatments, including dressing wounds. The problem with current hydrogels is that they adhere indiscriminately to all surfaces, which means that wound dressing can potentially damage delicate tissue as it is healing.
	Monkey see, monkey do: How sideline sports behaviors affect kids For children's sports, there's no doubt that parents are essential—they're the free ferry service, the half-time orange supplier, and the local cheer squad. But when it comes to sideline behavior, some parents can behave badly, and when this happens it's often a case of "monkey see, monkey do."
	Dancing may be better than other exercise for improving mental health New research finds that undertaking structured dance of any genre is generally equal and occasionally more effective than other types of physical activity interventions for improving a range of psychological and cognitive outcomes.
	'Self-love' might seem selfish. But done right, it's the opposite of narcissism "To love what you are, the thing that is yourself, is just as if you were embracing a glowing red-hot iron" said psychonalyst Carl Jung.
	A new emergency procedure for cardiac arrests aims to save more lives—here's how it works As of January this year, Aotearoa New Zealand became just the second country (after Canada) to adopt a groundbreaking new procedure for patients experiencing cardiac arrest.
	This is how tobacco damages our cells My father smoked a pipe for some time, and I vividly remember that sticky black substance—tar—which stuck to the device's filter. Now imagine this stuff going into your lungs, and coating their walls. The picture is unpleasant, to say the least.
	Why it's a bad idea to mix alcohol with some medications Anyone who has drunk alcohol will be familiar with how easily it can lower your social inhibitions and let you do things you wouldn't normally do.
	Lack of access to health care is partly to blame for skyrocketing HIV rates among gay Black men Over the past 20 years, people living with HIV in the United States have seen a drastic improvement in their overall quality of life. But the medical achievements that have made those lives better and created longer life expectancies have not benefited all communities.
	Scientists develop model to distinguish between two strikingly similar diseases blamed for skin lesions Scientists have developed a deep learning (DL) model capable of quickly and accurately distinguishing between monkeypox and chickenpox skin lesions, which often exhibit striking similarities.
	What are the best products to prevent, relieve chapped lips? When the cold temperatures hit your lips and dry them out this winter, you might turn to some sort of lip product for a solution. But with a plethora of options to choose from, which will work best?
	Researchers identify new mechanism that could improve the efficiency of diabetes treatments A study led by the University of Barcelona and the Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM) reveals how a new mechanism could improve the efficiency of currently available treatments for diabetes. The study, carried out on mice and cell cultures, may open up new ways of approaching metabolic diseases that are a global health problem.
	The slowly evolving truth about heart disease and women A century ago, so little was known about heart disease that people who had it resigned themselves to years of bed rest or, worse, an early death. Even less was known about how heart disease affected women—because nobody thought it did.
	An augmentation to standard treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using five repurposed drugs In a new paper, researcher Richard E. Kast from IIAIGC Study Center presents the data and rationale for adding five generic non-oncology drugs from general medical practice to gemcitabine, nab-paclitaxel, a current standard cytotoxic chemotherapy of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
	Mechanistically-based blood proteomic markers may be able to stratify risk for hepatocellular carcinoma Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of death from cancer worldwide but is often diagnosed at an advanced incurable stage. Yet, despite the urgent need for blood-based biomarkers for early detection, few studies capture ongoing biology to identify risk-stratifying biomarkers.
	Study paves way for solutions to boost pediatric clinical trial enrollment Every year in the U.S., about 15,000 children and teens under 20 are diagnosed with cancer. Yet, most don't get a chance to participate in clinical trials, which offer the newest, most promising treatments and improve patient outcomes.
	Disparities in mpox vaccine uptake could leave many vulnerable to resurgence A study by CUNY SPH researchers found that, even as availability of the mpox vaccine increased toward the end of the 2022 outbreak in the U.S., uptake remained low.
	Stronger international laws needed to prevent 'parallel pandemic of human rights,' say experts You could say we got off easy this time around. While COVID-19 has killed almost 7 million people globally and caused widespread economic distress, it wasn't the worst pandemic the world could face.
	High-dose inhaled nitric oxide decreases risk of death among critically ill Black patients with COVID-19: Study In a first-of-its-kind study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, physician-scientists from the University of Alabama at Birmingham Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine discovered that high-dose inhaled nitric oxide therapy may improve oxygenation and reduce the risk of mortality among critically ill Black patients with COVID-19.
	Quality initiative improves thrombolysis frequency, timeliness The U.S. nationwide quality initiative Target: Stroke (TS) is associated with improvement in thrombolysis frequency, timeliness, and outcome, according to a study published online Feb. 7 in JAMA Network Open.
	Neighborhood deprivation tied to gestational diabetes risk Neighborhood deprivation is associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), with body mass index explaining a considerable proportion of the relationship, according to a study published online Feb. 1 in Obstetrics & Gynecology.
	Smoking linked to melanoma-associated death in early-stage melanoma For patients with clinical stage I and II melanoma, smoking is associated with an increased risk for melanoma-associated death, according to a study published online Feb. 6 in JAMA Network Open.
	Cambodia reports a new bird flu case, the brother of a 9-year-old who died of the virus The brother of a boy who died last week from bird flu has tested positive for the virus, Cambodia's Health Ministry said Monday.
	Vasectomies still rare but on the rise in France: Study Fifteen times more French men are choosing sterilization to avoid getting their partner pregnant than a decade ago, a study said Monday, even if those undergoing the operation are still a tiny minority.
	Sleep aid models sleep patterns, plays soothing music at appropriate times Insomnia is a pervasive sleep disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. It has long been considered a significant health concern characterized by difficulty falling asleep or remaining asleep for a sufficiently long period. While almost everyone suffers sleeplessness on occasion, it can often be alleviated by changing one's bedtime routine, avoiding late food and drink, relaxation and breathing exercises, switching off one's gadgets earlier in the evening, reducing stress overall, and with short-term medication.
	Mental health among LGBTQ individuals during pandemic varied by region, study finds Symptoms of anxiety and depression among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals increased only in certain regions of the U.S. during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new study published in JMIR Public Health and Surveillance and led by CUNY SPH researchers.
	Researchers publish comprehensive report on long COVID symptoms in children Up to 5.8 million children and youth in the U.S. have experienced symptoms of COVID-19 that persisted long after initial infection. But diagnosing pediatric post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC)—known as long COVID—in children remains challenging, as it can affect any organ system in the body, symptoms vary widely by individual, and little is known about its trajectory in patients over time.
	Study could pave the way to non-invasive techniques to detect skin cancer A study conducted by Aston University researchers has demonstrated that the appearance of aging skin looks noticeably different compared to younger skin, when examined under polarized laser light.
	Common antibiotic is a cost-saving treatment for reducing maternal sepsis, death or infection in developing countries Sepsis, a severe infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death, is one of the top three causes of maternal deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. The life-threatening emergency is largely preventable with early diagnosis and treatment and disproportionately affects pregnant people in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
	New study finds that pregnancy complications can also affect child's health later in life Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and gestational diabetes (GDM) are two of the most common pregnancy complications and put pregnant people at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease later in life.
	New study finds roughly 1 in 10 pregnant people will develop long COVID While there is a growing body of research about the long-term effects of COVID in the general adult population, little research has been done on the long-term impacts on those who get COVID while pregnant.
	Newly discovered mechanism explains heightened risk for suicidal behavior among some contraceptive users The use of oral contraception containing a synthetic form of progesterone (progestogen) may lead to an increased risk of suicidal behavior for women with depression and suicidal ideations. Researchers at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience have now discovered the mechanism underlying this process.
	Study: Adding socioeconomic status to calculations of Medicare penalties would reduce stress on hospitals The Affordable Care Act requires Medicare to issue penalties that reduce payment to hospitals if post-operative readmission rates within 30 days exceed the national average. A new study led by Regenstrief Institute Research Scientist Andrew Gonzalez, M.D., J.D., MPH, reports that including socioeconomic status in the penalty calculation would reduce the amount of readmission penalties for safety-net hospitals, which typically care for the sickest patients. Other factors, including age and sex, are already embedded in the formula.
	Study links small pancreas size to faster progression to stage 3 type 1 diabetes A multicenter, longitudinal study, co-led by investigators at the Vanderbilt Diabetes Research and Training Center (DRTC), has discovered that a small pancreas size predicts a faster progression to stage 3 type 1 diabetes (T1D), the point at which clinical diagnosis occurs.
	Number of at-risk youth with intellectual disability and autism in the US foster care system is growing: Study Youth with foster care involvement have an increased risk for mental health diagnoses, trauma and worse outcomes in adulthood than their peers. Research about how youth with disabilities, including autism and intellectual disability, interact with this system is lacking. Evidence for how youth with autism or intellectual disability in the foster care system access and use services is needed to advance ways to improve their outcomes.
	Examining how 'micro-breaks' could break workplace cycle of fatigue and injury It may seem like common sense, but there is now hard evidence that short rest breaks prevent muscle fatigue and possible injury—without sacrificing productivity—for people engaged in repetitive manual labor.
	Differential expression of Mad2 gene in human esophageal cancer A new research paper titled "Differential expression of Mad2 gene is consequential to the patterns of histone H3 post-translational modifications in its promoter region in human esophageal cancer samples" has been published in Oncotarget.
	Long COVID-19 is linked to chronic pain conditions, says study Many patients continue to struggle in the wake of the pandemic as they grapple with ongoing symptoms triggered by COVID-19 infection, a condition commonly known as long COVID. However, the onset of symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, headache, and other types of pain is not unique to COVID infection, according to a new U-M study.
	Sugar-reduced chocolate with oat flour just as tasty as original, study finds The secret to making delicious chocolate with less added sugar is oat flour, according to a new study by Penn State researchers. In a blind taste test recently published in the Journal of Food Science, 25% reduced-sugar chocolates made with oat flour were rated equally, and in some cases preferred, to regular chocolate. The findings provide a new option for decreasing chocolate's sugar content while maintaining its texture and flavor.
	Q&A: Researcher unveils the health risks associated with synthetic fabric dyes For millennia, humans have used natural materials—such as plants, animals and minerals—to imbue fabrics with vibrant colors. But synthetic dyes, first developed in the mid-19th century, have since displaced this age-old tradition.
	Workers in key government public health occupations earn salaries well below the private sector, reveals study A majority of public health occupations in health departments around the country pay workers substantially less compared to pay for workers in the same occupations in the private sector, according to new research at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. While earlier studies have compared salaries between different occupations within health departments or asked respondents if they are satisfied with their salary, until now, few contrasted salaries for the same occupations within government versus the private sector or asked directly about wage competition.
	Genomic study sheds light on immune microenvironment in transplanted pediatric hearts Pediatric heart transplantation has long been hailed as a life-saving intervention for children suffering from end-stage heart failure. While the procedure offers hope, the long-term outcomes for these young patients remain suboptimal due to allograft rejection and graft failure.
	Global taskforce of scientists develop a unifying framework for the 'Human Affectome' To improve upon current scientific understanding of how our feelings, emotions, and moods relate to and impact human behavior—known in the field as "affective science"—an interdisciplinary task force of 173 scientists from 23 countries, has created an integrative framework that encompasses the enormous array of affective phenomena that exist within the Human Affectome.
	Interferon-gamma drives brain pathology in a mouse model of multiple system atrophy Multiple system atrophy is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disease, where insoluble inclusions of the protein alpha-synuclein appear in oligodendrocyte cells of the brain. The resulting pathogenesis features neuroinflammation, demyelination and neurodegeneration. Oligodendrocytes produce myelin, an insulating sheath on the axons of nerves.
	Prolonged cough? In most cases, patience is the treatment Coughing after a respiratory infection is common and, in most cases, will resolve with time, according to an article in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).
	For Black patients, 'representation matters' in evaluating prostate cancer websites For Black men with prostate cancer, racial representation is a key factor affecting trust in websites offering information on prostate cancer, reports a study in the March issue of The Journal of Urology, an official journal of the American Urological Association (AUA).
	Score big with a healthy, tasty Super Bowl feast Super Bowl party spreads famously include nachos, wings, burgers, hot dogs and other unhealthy fare, but one expert offers some advice on how to make watching the game a healthy affair.
	King Charles, the prostate, and your health King Charles III does not have prostate cancer. That is about the only thing we know about the royal cancer patient's condition right now.
	Environmental protection agency finalizes stronger air quality standards The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has introduced a tougher air quality standard that takes aim at fine particulate matter by lowering the allowable annual concentration of the deadly pollutant that each state can have.
	Ask the Pediatrician: How to keep the fun in sports to keep kids active Does your child dream of becoming the next Olympic star or pro athlete? While you might share those goals, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages all parents and families to take a commonsense approach when it comes to sports training.
	Can a $6.4 billion mental health ballot measure solve California homelessness? For decades, thousands of Californians struggling with mental health and addiction have languished on the street. Now, voters will decide whether a March 5 ballot measure is the solution to get them the care they desperately need.
	Heart disease risk factors in women highlight need for increased awareness, prevention Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, and women who have complications during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure or gestational diabetes, have a significantly higher risk of heart disease and stroke later in life, according to a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association, published in Circulation.
	Children failing to get adequate nutrition in early education centers, finds Australian study Researchers at The University of Queensland have found meals provided in early education and childcare centers in some low socio-economic communities are not meeting national dietary recommendations.
	HILDA survey at a glance: 7 charts reveal Australians are smoking less, taking more drugs and still binge drinking Australians' vices, including drinking, smoking and illicit drugs, have been revealed in the latest HILDA survey.
	Medicinal plants help keep children healthy in South Africa: 61 species recorded In 2021, almost 33 of every 1,000 South African children under five years old died.
	Century of progress sets stage for future scientific advances in cardiovascular health Dramatic advances in the understanding and treatment of cardiovascular diseases have saved millions of lives in the 100 years since the founding in 1924 of the American Heart Association (AHA). As heart disease and stroke remain the top causes of death worldwide, the solutions to challenges of the next century must combine lessons of the past with innovations of the future, according to "The American Heart Association at 100: A Century of Scientific Progress and the Future of Cardiovascular Science—A Presidential Advisory," published in Circulation.
	Post-Roe v. Wade, more patients rely on early prenatal testing as states toughen abortion laws In Utah, more of Dr. Cara Heuser's maternal-fetal medicine patients are requesting early ultrasounds, hoping to detect serious problems in time to choose whether to continue the pregnancy or have an abortion.
	HILDA data show psychological distress rising, loneliness highest among young Australians Younger Australians are experiencing higher psychological distress and more loneliness compared to older age groups, according to the latest HILDA data.
	New sun safety advice tailored for Australia's diverse population A new study led by researchers from QIMR Berghofer paves the way for more specific public health information to provide a better balance between the harms and benefits of sun exposure in Australia.

Other Sciences news

	Saturday Citations: Dark matter, a bug, and the marriageability of baritones "Oh, hello. I didn't see you there. I was just editing a weekly roundup of science news stories for Saturday morning." This is the first line from my autobiographical one-man play about having multiple Firefox tabs open.
	Best of Last Week—new clues about moon's history, AI hardware improvements, COVID death toll reanalyzed It was a good week for space science as a multi-institutional team of astronomers and astrophysicists found telescopic evidence that the black hole at the center of the Milky Way is spinning itself (and warping spacetime) into the shape of an American football. Also, a small international team of astronomers reports that one of Saturn's smallest moons, Mimas, has a young ocean beneath its icy shell. And a team of geographers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences report that analyses of minerals in lunar samples returned by China's Chang'e-5 lunar mission provide clues about the moon's history.
	Scandinavia's first farmers slaughtered the hunter-gatherer population, DNA analysis suggests Following the arrival of the first farmers in Scandinavia 5,900 years ago, the hunter-gatherer population was wiped out within a few generations, according to a new study from Lund University in Sweden, among others. The results, which are contrary to prevailing opinion, are based on DNA analysis of skeletons and teeth found in what is now Denmark.
	Traces of Stone Age hunter-gatherers discovered in the Baltic Sea In autumn 2021, geologists discovered an unusual row of stones, almost 1 km long, at the bottom of Mecklenburg Bight. The site is located around 10 kilometers off Rerik at a 21-meter water depth. The approximately 1,500 stones are aligned so regularly that a natural origin seems unlikely.
	Archaeologists discover oldest known bead in the Americas University of Wyoming archaeology Professor Todd Surovell and his team of collaborators have discovered a tube-shaped bead made of bone that is about 12,940 years old. The bead, found at the La Prele Mammoth site in Converse County, is the oldest known bead in the Americas.
	Digital technologies have made ancient manuscripts more accessible than ever, but there are risks and losses, too Near the end of the 18th century, a Greek monk named Nikodemos was putting together a massive anthology of Byzantine texts on prayer and spirituality, which he would call The Philokalia.
	Why you might start to hate the influencers you once loved Tattle Life, an anonymous gossip forum, has been described as "the most toxic place on the internet." "Fake boobs, fake teeth, fake nose, fake life," "Career is down the drain; she's still so vain!" and "Always the wedding guest but never the bride" are just a selection of the thread titles on the site.
	The myth of men's full-time employment Men's employment in the U.S. reached a 20-year high in 2023, with nearly 90% of men ages 25 to 54 in the workforce, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This supports the broad expectation—some might say stereotype—that full-time employment is the norm for American men.
	It may be too late to stop the great election disinformation campaigns of 2024 but we at least have to try Global liberal democracy faces a near-unprecedented list of digital threats in 2024 as the increasing exploitation of AI and the rampant spread of disinformation threaten the integrity of elections in more than 60 countries. And we are woefully unprepared.
	New research debunks the 'unhappy worker' narrative, but finds most still believe it As a sociologist who studies how people think and feel about work, I've been struck by the unflattering cultural narrative that has intensified around work in recent years.
	Love may be timeless, but the way we talk about it isn't Every year as Valentine's Day approaches, people remind themselves that not all expressions of love fit the stereotypes of modern romance. V-Day cynics might plan a "Galentines" night for female friends or toast their platonic "Palentines" instead.
	EU, UK urge scientists to join research program after Brexit concerns EU and UK science chiefs on Monday launched a push to attract scientists to Europe's £80 billion Horizon research program after warnings of high costs and red tape in Britain.
	Customers prefer text over video to provide service feedback, research finds At a time when one viral video can damage a business, some companies are turning to their own commenting platforms rather than letting social media be the main outlet for customer feedback. Only one wrinkle: in this context, customers appear to prefer writing a message rather than leaving a video.
	Anti-LGBT bills led to more suicides in Poland, research finds Analysis led by Chad Meyerhoefer shows harmful effects regardless of whether laws passed, with potential parallels to current U.S. "bathroom bills."
	Community-level language resources do not benefit immigrant men and women equally, study finds Assistance provided by bilingual adults in a community increases the chances of employment for immigrant men who struggle with English proficiency, but does not play a similar role for women with that same language barrier, according to a new study by a University at Buffalo social work researcher.
	Examining the extended reach of tax laws For big multinationals that love tax havens, the start of 2024 was not a cause for celebration. On Jan. 1, the European Union, Japan, Canada, and Australia joined other jurisdictions in requiring their largest companies to pay a tax rate of at least 15% on their worldwide profits.
	Children's positive attitude toward mathematics fades during the early school years, finds study Children's interest in, and competence perceptions of, mathematics are generally quite positive as they begin school, but turn less positive during the first three years. Changes in interest and self-concept are also associated with each other. In other words, if a child's interest fades, so does their competence perception, and vice versa.
	Inclusive leadership could be a game-changer for business Employee retention is a key focus for corporations globally, and new research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) has found that leadership style could have a noticeable impact on an employee's working experience.
	Disadvantaged communities in Massachusetts twice as likely to have poor roads—and pay the cost in gas A new study led by University of Massachusetts Amherst engineers paints a clear picture that people in disadvantaged communities in Massachusetts have poorer road quality and are more likely to need to use more fuel for their vehicles as a result.
	Sports deflation: Study shows NBA 3-point shot has lost its value When the NBA celebrated the start of its 75th season in fall 2021, it was clear that the 3-point shot adopted by the league in 1979-80 had transformed the sport.
	Black girls' identity development and the protective role of parental socialization in educational settings Several years ago, when Marketa Burnett asked the young Black girls who were part of her research study to talk about what it meant first to be a girl and second a Black girl, they told her the two were indistinguishable.
	New research finds women and minorities likely to pay higher auto loan premiums New research has found that women and minorities are more likely to pay higher premiums when they take out auto loans. A new study conducted by researchers at three leading universities found that women and minorities pay a statistically significant and greater dealer interest rate markup than men and non-minorities.
	White people found to be more likely to confront authors of racist online posts to set discussion rules White people surveyed in a recent study indicated they would be more likely to confront those who post racist content on social media if their objective were to defend the norms for political discussions rather than to change the person's prejudiced beliefs.
	How to create safe spaces with and for Black girls In 2018, as a graduate student, Assistant Professor Misha Inniss-Thompson worked alongside four Black girls and colleagues at Vanderbilt University to co-found the Black Girl Magic Crew, an afterschool program for Black adolescent girls aimed at supporting and celebrating their talents, identity development, and wellness. As the community coalesced, Inniss-Thompson and her collaborators documented the program's impacts.
	Have Conservative UK councils started placing more children in care each year than Labour councils? New analysis In England, over 80,000 children are now in care, an increase of nearly one third since 2010. We've discovered that local party politics is a factor in this. Our analysis shows that, between 2015 and 2021, six or seven more children each year were taken into care in an average sized Conservative council than in an equivalent Labour council.
	Love is more complex than '5 love languages,' says expert The "5 Love Languages" popularized by Gary Chapman are often mentioned when discussing relationships, but this Valentine's Day one Virginia Tech psychologist suggests taking a different approach to fostering and nurturing high-quality, loving relationships.

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