Science X Newsletter Thu, Feb 1

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Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for February 1, 2024:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

A fully autonomous drone system for cinematography and wildlife monitoring

Observations shed more light on the properties of the nearest tidal disruption event

Physicists develop highly robust time crystal

Device could jumpstart work toward quantum internet

ALMA spots the shadow of a molecular outflow from a quasar when the universe was less than 1 billion years old

Plant receptors that control immunity and development share a common origin, study finds

Lunar night puts Japan's lander back to sleep

Study unveils key dynamics of 2D nanomaterials with view to larger-scale production

Researchers develop gold nanowire spectroscopy system to reveal how trions are generated

Hexagonal copper disk lattice unleashes spin wave control

Experiments suggest ancient four-holed ivory baton was used to make rope

Differences in heart rate variability in pregnant women could be marker for premature delivery

Microfluidic chip reveals that bacteria swim toward large, complex polymers

Researchers develop novel 'bone bandage' material for cracked bones

New research shows how child-like language learning is possible using AI tools

Nanotechnology news

	Study unveils key dynamics of 2D nanomaterials with view to larger-scale production A team of Rice University researchers mapped out how flecks of 2D materials move in liquid ⎯ knowledge that could help scientists assemble macroscopic-scale materials with the same useful properties as their 2D counterparts.
	Researchers develop gold nanowire spectroscopy system to reveal how trions are generated In a significant advancement for next-generation semiconductors, a collaborative research team has made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors.
	Solving mysteries of metallic glass at the nanoscale The matter of how metals deform or respond to external stresses has been extensively studied among metallurgists for centuries. When it comes to conventional metals—the crystalline kind with atoms that line up in neat patterns—the process is fairly well understood. But for the deformation of metallic glasses and other amorphous metals, easy answers have been elusive, particularly when it comes to how things work at the nanoscale.
	Wafer-scale patterning of gold nanoparticle arrays enables enhanced biosensing A research team led by Prof. Li Yue from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has introduced a self-confined solid-state dewetting mechanism. This innovation significantly reduces the reliance on complex nanofabrication techniques, paving the way for efficient wafer-scale patterning of non-closely packed (NCP) gold nanoparticle arrays.
	Aerosol jet printing could revolutionize microfluidic device fabrication Surface acoustic wave (SAW) technologies, known for their high precision and rapid actuation, are essential to microfluidics and affect a broad spectrum of research areas. However, traditional fabrication methods are time-consuming, intricate, and necessitate costly cleanroom facilities.
	A positive spin: Electrospinning and electrospraying synergism for the nanomaterials industry Combining two twins-tech—electrospinning and electrospraying—to fabricate novel nanomaterials is an urgent area of research for materials scientists and biomedical engineers, according to a new paper by Professor Hu Jinlian of City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) published in Matter.
	A nanotechnology‐based CRISPR/Cas9 delivery system for genome editing in cancer treatment In a study published in MedComm—Biomaterials and Applications Professor Changyang Gong and his Ph.D. student Shiyao Zhou elaborate on the mechanism of CRISPR/Cas9 system. The CRISPR/Cas9 system consists of Cas9 protein and single stranded directing RNA (sgRNA).

Physics news

	Physicists develop highly robust time crystal A team from TU Dortmund University recently succeeded in producing a highly durable time crystal that lived millions of times longer than could be shown in previous experiments. By doing so, they have corroborated an extremely interesting phenomenon that Nobel Prize laureate Frank Wilczek postulated around ten years ago and which had already found its way into science fiction movies.
	Device could jumpstart work toward quantum internet In research that could jumpstart work toward the quantum internet, researchers at MIT and the University of Cambridge have built and tested an exquisitely small device that could allow the quick, efficient flow of quantum information over large distances.
	Hexagonal copper disk lattice unleashes spin wave control A collaborative group of researchers has potentially developed a means of controlling spin waves by creating a hexagonal pattern of copper disks on a magnetic insulator. The breakthrough is expected to lead to greater efficiency and miniaturization of communication devices in fields such as artificial intelligence and automation technology.
	Single proton illuminates perovskite nanocrystal-based transmissive thin scintillators National University of Singapore (NUS) researchers have developed a transmissive thin scintillator using perovskite nanocrystals, designed for real-time tracking and counting of single protons. The exceptional sensitivity is attributed to biexcitonic radiative emission generated through proton-induced upconversion and impact ionization.
	Short X-ray pulses reveal source of light-induced ferroelectricity in SrTiO₃ Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter (MPSD) in Hamburg, Germany and the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in the United States have gained new insights into the development of the light-induced ferroelectric state in SrTiO3.
	'Flawed' material resolves superconductor conundrum Christopher Parzyck had done everything right. Parzyck, a postdoctoral researcher, had brought his nickelate samples—a newly discovered family of superconductors—to a synchrotron beamline for X-ray scattering experiments. He was measuring his samples, which he'd synthesized with a new method, in the hope of detecting the suspected presence of "charge ordering"—a phenomenon in which electrons self-organize into periodic patterns. The phenomenon has been linked to high-temperature superconductivity.
	Experimentation explores defects and fluctuations in quantum devices Experimental research conducted by a joint team from Los Alamos National Laboratory and D-Wave Quantum Systems examines the paradoxical role of fluctuations in inducing magnetic ordering on a network of qubits.
	Team develops a laser printer for photonic chips Photonic integrated circuits are an important next-wave technology. These sophisticated microchips hold the potential to substantially decrease costs and increase speed and efficiency for electronic devices across a wide range of application areas, including automotive technology, communications, health care, data storage, and computing for artificial intelligence.
	Excavation of colossal caverns for Fermilab's DUNE experiment completed Excavation workers have finished carving out the future home of the gigantic particle detectors for the international Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment. Located a mile below the surface, the three colossal caverns are at the core of a new research facility that spans an underground area about the size of eight soccer fields.
	Generating powerful optical vortices directly from a thin-disk laser oscillator In recent years, optical vortices have attracted extensive attention in laser advanced manufacturing because of their annual intensity distribution and orbital angular momentum.
	Milestone reached for superconducting undulator for European XFEL A European XFEL team at the Karlsruhe Institute for Technology has tested a mock-up coil of the superconducting undulator pre-series module (S-PRESSO) designed for an upgrade of the European XFEL. It achieved a record-breaking magnetic field. This milestone is reported in Frontiers in Physics.

Earth news

	Tidal landscapes: A greater carbon sink than previously thought Mangroves and saltmarshes sequester large amounts of carbon, mitigating the greenhouse effect. New research from the University of Gothenburg shows that these environments are perhaps twice as effective as previously thought.
	Research highlights a dangerous overreliance on future CO₂ removal Governments and businesses are relying on dangerous amounts of future removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, instead of more rapidly reducing emissions and phasing out fossil fuels. This problem is partly due to an incomplete picture of the damaging consequences of carbon dioxide removal for people, food security and natural ecosystems, according to new research published in Science.
	Engineers unmask nanoplastics in oceans, revealing their true shapes and chemistry Millions of tons of plastic waste enter the oceans each year. The sun's ultraviolet light and ocean turbulence break down these plastics into invisible nanoparticles that threaten marine ecosystems.
	Increased temperature difference between day and night could affect all life on Earth, say scientists Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology, in Sweden, have discovered a change in what scientists already knew about global warming dynamics. It had been widely accepted since the 1950s that global temperature rises were not consistent throughout the day and night, with greater nighttime warming being observed.
	Study shows that Rio Grande Rise was once a giant mineral-rich tropical island near Brazil A study led by scientists at the University of São Paulo (USP) in Brazil has shown that the Rio Grande Rise (RGR), a possibly continental basaltic plateau and chain of seamounts now submerged in the South Atlantic Ocean some 1,200 km from the coast of Brazil, was once a giant tropical island, rich in minerals and covered with vegetation. Geologists have dated sediments from the formation to between 45 million and 40 million years ago.
	Rapid climate change may be causing Greenland's bedrock to rise, forming small islands While much of the world is grappling with rising sea levels due to the melting of Greenland's ice sheet, the situation on the Greenlandic mainland is almost the opposite. The land is rising faster than the current sea level.
	Permafrost alone holds back Arctic rivers—and a lot of carbon New research from Dartmouth College provides the first evidence that the Arctic's frozen soil is the dominant force shaping Earth's northernmost rivers. Permafrost, the thick layer of soil that stays frozen for two or more years at a time, is the reason that Arctic rivers are uniformly confined to smaller areas and shallower valleys than rivers to the south, according to a study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
	Norway's deep-sea exploitation could put it in environmental and legal murky waters Norway has a reputation for environmental leadership, from championing international biodiversity policies to its wilderness protection and ambitious biodiversity regulations.
	Agriculture built these High Plains towns. Now, it might run them dry Brownie Wilson pulls off a remote dirt road right through a steep ditch and onto a farmer's field.
	New energy justice index casts spotlight on energy transition in the Global South Can the transition to a zero-carbon society in the Global South propel sustainable development? A team led by scientists from the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) has developed the first quantitative approach to measure the extent to which energy transitions in the Global South incorporate elements of energy justice.
	Pandemic lockdowns and water quality: A revealing study on building usage In a recent study published in the journal Environmental Science and Ecotechnology, reveals crucial insights into the impact of reduced building occupancy on water quality.
	Comparing carbon-trapping capacities of anoxic basins Humans will need to both drastically reduce emissions and remove at least 10 gigatons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere per year to avoid the worst effects of climate change, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 2023 synthesis report.
	US center's tropical storm forecasts are going inland, where damage can outstrip coasts The "cone of uncertainty" produced by the National Hurricane Center to forecast the location and ferocity of a tropical storm is getting an update this year to include predictions for inland areas, where wind and flooding are sometimes more treacherous than damage to the coasts.
	Improving Arctic greenhouse gas sink and source estimates with field measurements, remote sensing A new study investigates the sinks and sources of key greenhouse gases of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide in the Arctic landscape with a spatial resolution of only a few square meters. Vegetation and soil conditions explain the differences in greenhouse gas emissions.
	Barcelona faces water restrictions as drought emergency declared Spain's second city Barcelona and much of the surrounding region of Catalonia entered a drought emergency on Thursday, clearing the way for tighter water restrictions following three years without significant rainfall.

Astronomy and Space news

	Observations shed more light on the properties of the nearest tidal disruption event An international team of astronomers has conducted multiwavelength observations of AT 2023clx—the closest to Earth tidal disruption event (TDE). Results of the observational campaign, published Jan. 22 on the pre-print server arXiv, deliver important insights into the properties of this TDE.
	ALMA spots the shadow of a molecular outflow from a quasar when the universe was less than 1 billion years old Theoretical predictions have been confirmed with the discovery of an outflow of molecular gas from a quasar when the universe was less than a billion years old.
	Lunar night puts Japan's lander back to sleep After a brief awakening, Japan's moon lander is out of action again but will resume its mission if it survives the two-week lunar night, the space agency said Thursday.
	Magnetic launch of black hole jets in Perseus A The Event Horizon Telescope collaboration, including scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy in Bonn, Germany, has recently resolved the jet base of an evolving jet of plasma at ultra-high angular resolution.
	Skyscraper-size asteroid will buzz Earth on Friday, safely passing within 1.7 million miles An asteroid as big as a skyscraper will pass within 1.7 million miles of Earth on Friday.
	Shake, rattle and launch: Dream Chaser spaceplane passes vibration test Sierra Space's shuttle-like Dream Chaser has been put through its paces at a powerful NASA vibration facility that mimics conditions during launch and atmospheric reentry, officials said Thursday ahead of its planned first flight to the ISS this year.
	Space Coast's new general spearheads more cooperation with private space companies Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen wants commercial companies to solve Space Force problems, but if the U.S. Space Force can help them, that's OK with her, too.
	Even early galaxies grew hand-in-hand with their supermassive black holes Within almost every galaxy there is a supermassive black hole. This by itself implies some kind of formative connection between the two. We have also observed how gas and dust within a galaxy can drive the growth of galactic black holes, and how the dynamics of black holes can both drive star formation or hinder it depending on how active a black hole is.
	Betelgeuse before, during and after the Great Dimming When a prominent star in the night sky suddenly dims, it generates a lot of interest. That's what happened with the red supergiant star Betelgeuse between November 2019 and May 2020. Betelgeuse will eventually explode as a supernova. Was the dimming a signal that the explosion was imminent?
	How did life get started on Earth? Atmospheric haze might have been the key A recent study accepted to The Planetary Science Journal and currently posted to the arXiv preprint server investigates how the organic hazes that existed on Earth between the planet's initial formation and 500 million years afterwards, also known as Hadean geologic eon, could have contained the necessary building blocks for life, including nucleobases and amino acids. This study holds the potential to not only help scientists better understand the conditions on an early Earth, but also if these same conditions on Saturn's largest moon, Titan, could produce the building blocks of life, as well.
	NASA to study effects of radio noise on lunar science In February 2024, Intuitive Machines' IM-1 mission will launch to the moon's South Polar region, as part of NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. This mission is part of the CLPS ongoing effort to bring down the cost for science investigations and technology demonstrations going to the moon and to make them more routine in the lead-up to the Artemis landings later this decade.
	Hubble captures a suspected galaxy encounter UGC 3912 is classified as a spiral galaxy, but you wouldn't know it from this detailed NASA Hubble Space Telescope image. UGC 3912's distorted shape is typically indicative of a gravitational encounter with another galaxy. When galaxies interact—either brush up against each other's gravitational fields or even collide—their stars, dust, and gas can be pulled into new paths. UGC 3912 might have once been an organized-looking spiral, but it looks like it's been smudged out of shape by a giant thumb.
	Image: Cygnus flies to the International Space Station In this image from Jan. 30, 2024, an uncrewed Cygnus cargo spacecraft launches atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, starting its journey to the International Space Station.

Technology news

	A fully autonomous drone system for cinematography and wildlife monitoring Recent technological advances, such as increasingly sophisticated drones and cameras, have opened exciting new possibilities for cinematography. Most notably, film directors can now shoot scenes from a wide range of angles that were previously inaccessible and in far higher resolution.
	New research shows how child-like language learning is possible using AI tools AI systems, such as GPT-4, can now learn and use human language, but they learn from astronomical amounts of language input—much more than children receive when learning how to understand and speak a language. The best AI systems train on text with a word count in the trillions, whereas children receive just millions per year.
	Researchers develop highly efficient heat-driven thermoacoustic refrigerator Researchers have developed an innovative heat-driven thermoacoustic refrigerator (HDTR) with a novel bypass configuration that significantly improves the efficiency of this technology.
	Photonics-based wireless link breaks speed records for data transmission From coffee shop customers who connect their laptops to the local Wi-Fi network to remote weather monitoring stations in the Antarctic, wireless communication is an essential part of modern life. Researchers worldwide are currently working on the next evolution of communication networks, called "beyond 5G" or 6G networks.
	Engineers fashion strands of conductive fiber that can be woven into clothes A team of engineers affiliated with a host of institutions in China and two in Singapore has developed a type of conductive fiber that can be woven into clothes to give them smart device capabilities. The study is published in Nature. Xiaoting Jia and Alex Parrott from Virginia Tech have published a News & Views piece in the same journal issue, outlining the work by the team on this new effort.
	Scientists develop 3D-printed pneumatic modules that control the movements of soft robots using air pressure In the future, soft robots will be able to perform tasks that cannot be done by conventional robots. These soft robots could be used in terrain that is difficult to access and in environments where they are exposed to chemicals or radiation that would harm electronically controlled robots made of metal. This requires such soft robots to be controllable without any electronics, which is still a challenge in development.
	How wood is making a comeback in construction We've been using wood to build things for a very long time. According to the recently discovered remains of a half-a-million-year-old wooden structure in Africa, we've been building with wood before we were even fully human. From those early beginnings to the stave churches of Scandinavia to Lincoln's log cabin, wood as a construction material has been favored for its abundance, its workability and its beauty.
	Team designs robots to help with human habitation in space In the coming decades, NASA plans to send human crews back to the moon, build a space station in lunar orbit, establish a permanent base on the lunar surface, and—hopefully—send astronauts to Mars.
	Researchers take new 'mixed reality' headsets for a spin Among the buzziest consumer technologies right now are "mixed reality" or "spatial computing" headsets that convincingly blend views of the real world with digital content.
	Researchers develop algorithm that crunches eye-movement data of screen users Window to the soul? Maybe, but the eyes are also a flashing neon sign for a new artificial intelligence-based system that can read them to predict what you'll do next.
	Facebook, the social network old-timer, turns 20 Founded 20 years ago as a simple hangout spot for young people, Facebook has since become a battle-hardened behemoth that—despite perceptions of being for boomers and parents—continues growing and growing.
	Is a device tracking you without your consent? Florida bill would make that a felony Stalking victims would be armed with stronger protections if proposed changes to a Florida law outlawing unauthorized use of wireless tracking devices are enacted.
	Seattle bans throwing away batteries in garbage, citing fire risk Seattle Public Utilities has banned all batteries and some electronics from being disposed of in the garbage due to fire risk.
	2D single-crystalline LiCoO₂ nanosheets developed for high-performance battery-supercapacitor hybrid devices A team led by Prof. Wu Zhongshuai has developed novel 2D atomically thin (001)-oriented single-crystalline LiCoO2 nanosheets with longer Li+ intercalation distance and (001) planes dominated surface for high-performance battery-supercapacitor hybrid devices. This study was published in ACS Energy Letters.
	New approach helps to improve classification accuracy of remote sensing image Land use/land cover (LULC) is a major shaper of the ecological environment. Using remote sensing technology to dynamically monitor LULC and quantitatively extract LULC change information is an important study for coping with global climate change and maintaining the energy balance of the Earth system.
	Trading between households in smart energy communities Our energy systems are undergoing rapid change. Many households are generating electricity with solar panels, and there are new sources of demand and storage, such as charging electric vehicles and home batteries. Local prosumers (energy consumers who also generate and store energy) are taking control of their own energy supply. This development is prompting the creation of energy communities and micro-grids, such as the SchoonSchip community in the north of Amsterdam.
	New material developed for better supercapacitor applications Supercapacitors, also known as ultracapacitors or electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs), are advanced energy storage devices with unique characteristics. Unlike traditional batteries, supercapacitors store energy through the electrostatic separation of charges at the interface between an electrolyte and a high-surface-area electrode. This mechanism allows for rapid energy storage and release, enabling supercapacitors to deliver high power bursts and exhibit exceptional cycle life.
	Survey finds the farther away wind turbines are, the better they are accepted A recent study based on a public participation survey shows that a long distance to wind farms increases positive attitudes towards them and wind power. Existing wind turbines are considered more acceptable than those under planning. Wind turbines are more acceptable close to a regular home than a vacation home which may present challenges in siting wind turbines especially in areas with more vacation homes.
	How will the global market for graphene develop in the coming years and what are possible applications? Since 2004, graphene has sparked enormous expectations in terms of technological application opportunity and potential economic value. In this context, a new publication in the journal 2D Materials by researchers of Fraunhofer ISI provides insights into the projected development of the emerging graphene market, specific segments and possible applications.
	A theoretical model for reliability assessment of machine learning systems For a machine learning system comprising multiple machine learning models and input data, researchers at University of Tsukuba developed a theoretical model for evaluating the effect of diversity in machine learning models and input data used in a machine learning system on the reliability of its output.
	Computer scientists run a password update campaign efficiently and with minimal IT costs Updating passwords for all users of a company or institution's internal computer systems is stressful and disruptive to both users and IT professionals. Many studies have looked at user struggles and password best practices. But very little research has been done to determine how a password update campaign can be conducted most efficiently and with minimal IT costs. Until now.
	Developing a radar network for safe flight operations at vertiports For the first time, visitors at the 2024 Olympic Games will be able to fly to venues using air taxis. Vertical takeoff aircraft such as drones, multirotors and air taxis will take off from and land on pads known as vertiports.
	Researchers test human vs AI-human hybrid teams in dynamic design challenge With 70% of U.S. companies expected to adopt AI by 2030, organizations need to understand and address the key challenges of employee-AI interaction. To shine light on the future of AI in the workplace, Chris McComb and Jon Cagan put human and AI-human "hybrid" teams to the test. In a head-to-head matchup, researchers studied which team could better design a fleet of delivery drones under dynamic design constraints.
	Using pulp and paper waste to scrub carbon from emissions Researchers at McGill University have come up with an innovative approach to improve the energy efficiency of carbon conversion, using waste material from pulp and paper production. The technique they've pioneered using the Canadian Light Source at the University of Saskatchewan not only reduces the energy required to convert carbon into useful products, but also reduces overall waste in the environment.
	Meta posts sharp profit, revenue increase in Q4 thanks to cost cuts and advertising rebound Meta Platforms Inc. tripled its profit and posted sharply higher revenue in the final quarter of 2023, boosted by a rebound in digital advertising as well cost cutting and layoffs in what CEO Mark Zuckerberg called the "year of efficiency."
	Amazon reports better-than-expected revenue, profits for the holiday shopping season Amazon on Thursday reported better-than-expected revenue and profits for the fourth quarter, driven by strong consumer spending during the holiday shopping season.
	Autopen shows perils of automation in communications Long before people worried about the effects of ChatGPT on personal communication and social norms, there was the autopen and its precursors—automatic signature machines—that some feared would be misused to forge signatures and sign war declarations and other bills.
	Digital watermarks combined with AI will speed up copyright infringement cases, study says Digital watermarks combined with AI will speed up the resolution of legal cases about copyright infringements, a new study says.
	FIA-commissioned report takes aim at social media companies for not curbing online abuse in sports An FIA-commissioned report on online abuse in sports released Thursday suggests social media companies should do more to curb targeted attacks toward athletes, officials and even fans.
	Songs by Taylor Swift, Drake and more are starting to disappear from TikTok. Here's why TikTok may look (or sound) a little different when you scroll through the app going forward.
	Albania's Institute of Statistics suffers cyberattack, some systems affected Albania's Institute of Statistics reported Thursday it has suffered a cyberattack which affected some of its systems.
	Taylor Swift deepfakes: New technologies have long been weaponized against women. The solution involves everyone Sexually graphic "deepfake" images of Taylor Swift went viral on social media last week, fueling widespread condemnation from Swifties, the general public and even the White House.
	The Facebook users redefining the 20-year-old social network From California to Southeast Asia, Facebook is capturing a new generation of users who see it as a commercial tool rather than a fun networking platform.

Chemistry news

	Researchers develop novel 'bone bandage' material for cracked bones Bone regeneration is a complex process, and existing methods to aid regeneration including transplants and growth factor transmissions face limitations such as the high cost. But recently, a piezoelectric material that can promote the growth of bone tissue has been developed.
	Intensifying the production of high-value compounds from industrial waste A study by the Center for Integrated Technology and Organic Synthesis (CiTOS) demonstrates how glycerol carbonate, a biosourced industrial additive, can be produced in record time using CO2 and a by-product of the cooking oil recycling industry.
	Mussel-inspired antimicrobial coating protects sanitary fabrics from contamination Researchers from the UAB and the ICN2 have developed an innovative material to fight against the spread of pathogens, infections and antimicrobial resistance. Inspired by the substances secreted by mussels to adhere to rocks, it can be used as a coating to protect health care fabrics and provides an effective alternative to commonly used materials such as paper, cotton, surgical masks and commercial plasters.
	Method to make synthetic derivative of natural indigo may inspire future electronic devices Chemists at RIKEN have developed a method for making synthetic derivatives of the natural dye indigo that doesn't require harsh conditions. This discovery could inspire advances in electronic devices, including light-responsive gadgets and stretchy biomedical sensors.
	A lead isotopic standard for instrument calibration Stable isotope analysis is an important interdisciplinary tool used by numerous fields such as nuclear and homeland security, forensics, medicine and pharmaceuticals, human health and nutrition, and climate science. Achieving reliable metrology and traceability in isotope analysis is critical as improved isotope measurements allows for advances leading to, for instance, faster conclusive analysis of forensic evidence and confidence in legal proceedings; more rigorous drug, food, and flavor authentication and identification of counterfeits; and improved understanding of mass flux in natural systems to more rigorously guide models used for remediation/mitigation and policy‑making for improved health.
	Researchers employ artificial intelligence to unlock the secrets of magnesium alloy anisotropy Magnesium (Mg) alloys have been popularly used for designing aerospace and automotive parts owing to their high strength-to-weight ratio. Their biocompatibility and low density also make these alloys ideal for use in biomedical and electronic equipment. However, Mg alloys are known to exhibit plastic anisotropic behavior. In other words, their mechanical properties vary depending on the direction of the applied load.
	Innovative portable sensors for hydrogen peroxide detection In a study published in the journal Microsystems & Nanoengineering, researchers from Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) have unveiled a breakthrough in the detection of hydrogen peroxide H2O2, a vital biomarker in biological processes, with the development of dual-functional portable sensors based on Pt-Ni hydrogels.
	Dallas' Celanese and Under Armour team up for an Earth-friendly spandex alternative Dallas-based chemical and material manufacturing company Celanese is teaming up with athletic apparel brand Under Armour to create a new, recycling-friendly, spandex-like fiber.

Biology news

	Plant receptors that control immunity and development share a common origin, study finds Plants are continuously evolving new immune receptors to ever-changing pathogens. Researchers at the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science (CSRS) have traced the origin and evolutionary trajectory of plant immune receptors. Their discovery will make it easier to identify immune receptor genes from genomic information and could help in the development of pathogen-resistant crops. This study is published in Nature Communications.
	Microfluidic chip reveals that bacteria swim toward large, complex polymers Using a novel microfluidic chip, ETH researchers led by Professor Roman Stocker and Estelle Clerc have shown that bacteria not only recognize small food molecules, but also swim towards large, complex polymers. A startup is now using these findings and applying the technology to find microbes in the environment that can break down pollutants.
	Scientists discover that clownfish count stripes to distinguish friend from foe Anemonefish (also known as clownfish) are feisty little creatures, enthusiastically defending their anemone homes from intruders. And while it is sometimes fine to share with anemonefish of other species, it is never cool to cohabit with intruders of their own species: they always receive the frostiest reception. So how do anemonefish tell members of their own species apart from other stripy fish?
	First atomic-scale 'movie' of microtubules under construction, a key process for cell division Cells in the human body are constantly dividing. With each division, the genetic information contained in the chromosomes is duplicated, and each daughter cell receives a complete copy of the genetic material. It is a sophisticated process, a clockwork mechanism that involves refined and fast changes within the cell. To make this possible, the cell relies on microtubules, tiny structures that are indeed tube-shaped. Understanding how they start forming is a long-standing question.
	New research shows that the arrangement of bacteria in biofilms affects their sensitivity to antibiotics Bacteria are traditionally imagined as single-cell organisms, spread out sparsely over surfaces or suspended in liquids, but in many environments the true bacterial mode of growth is in sticky clusters called biofilms.
	Study finds small, long-nosed dogs live the longest Small, long-nosed (or dolichocephalic) dog breeds such as Whippets have the highest life expectancies in the UK, while male dogs from medium-sized flat-faced (or brachycephalic) breeds such as English Bulldogs have the lowest. The results, published in Scientific Reports, have been calculated from data on over 580,000 individual dogs from over 150 different breeds, and could help to identify those dogs most at risk of an early death.
	Study finds relocated songbirds can successfully learn the diversity of songs they need to survive Nestling songbirds relocated as part of conservation programs successfully learn the song repertoires they need to communicate—and ultimately survive—in the wild, a new study has found.
	Highly targeted CRISPR delivery system advances gene editing in living animals Most approved gene therapies today, including those involving CRISPR-Cas9, work their magic on cells removed from the body, after which the edited cells are returned to the patient.
	A neural 'satnav': How zebrafish navigate to find their comfortable temperature Zebrafish are smaller than your little finger, with a brain no more than half the size of a pinhead. Yet these animals possess an efficient navigation system that enables them to find their way back to spots in the water where the temperature suits them.
	Fungal disease driven by climate change endangers wheat production Climate change poses a threat to yields and food security worldwide, with plant diseases as one of the main risks. An international team of researchers led by Prof. Senthold Asseng from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has now shown that further spread of the fungal disease wheat blast could reduce global wheat production by 13% through 2050. The is a dramatic result for global food security.
	Study suggests resistant bacteria can remain in the body for years Fighting disease-causing bacteria becomes more difficult when antibiotics stop working. People with pre-existing conditions in particular can carry resistant germs and suffer from repeated infections for years, according to a study by the University of Basel and University Hospital Basel.
	Researchers develop AI-enabled model to help mitigate global ammonia emissions from cropland by 38% An international research team led by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has achieved a significant breakthrough by developing an artificial intelligence (AI) model that can help mitigate global ammonia (NH3) emission from agriculture.
	LSH genes associated with defining the shapes of stems, flowers and leaves required for N-fixing root nodules Cambridge scientists have identified two crucial genetic factors needed to produce specialized root organs that can accommodate nitrogen-fixing bacteria in legumes such as peas and beans.
	Microbial research unravels a global nitrogen mystery Novel research led by Wei Qin, an assistant professor of microbiology at the University of Oklahoma, that significantly changes the understanding of ammonia oxidation, a critical component of the global nitrogen cycle, has been published in the journal Nature Microbiology.
	Researchers develop method to map interactions of specific RNA regions in live cells The interplay between ribonucleic acid (RNA) and proteins is not only important for maintaining cellular homeostasis but is also at the center of the tug-of-war between virus and host. Until now, there has been no method to globally map direct interactions of individual RNA regions in an unbiased fashion without the need for genetic modification of the target RNA or cell.
	Edge habitats along roads and power lines may be key to conserving rare plants Managing forest edge habitats to maintain a gradient of canopy cover and plant density could be key to conserving some threatened native plant species such as wild lupine, according to Penn State researchers.
	New study suggests culling animals who 'don't belong' can be a flawed nature conservation practice New research published today in the journal Science has concluded that eradicating animals on the basis that they are not native in order to protect plant species can be a flawed practice costing millions of dollars, and resulting in the slaughter of millions of healthy wild animals.
	French bulldog puppy spontaneously regrows jaw A puppy's jaw spontaneously regrew after Cornell veterinarians removed a majority of his lower left mandible due to cancer. Although this phenomenon has been documented in children, this is the first reported case of its kind for dogs of any age or breed.
	New genus of 'alien-faced' multi-legged forest dwellers discovered University of the Sunshine Coast researchers have uncovered a new genus and five new species of millipedes in remote African jungles—and say the many-legged creatures could hold important clues to whether woody vines are choking or protecting the world's forests.
	How leafcutter ants cultivate a fungal garden to degrade plants could provide insights into future biofuels Scientists have spent decades finding ways to efficiently and affordably degrade plant materials so that they can be converted into useful bioproducts that benefit everyday life.
	An algae bloom devastated sea mammals last year: LA wants to improve its rescue efforts A nightmarish scene unfolded in the summer of 2023 across Los Angeles County beaches as hundreds of sick marine mammals washed ashore and became stranded in the sand. Beachgoers witnessed animals seizing, foaming at the mouth and dying due to a toxic algae bloom.
	How the microbes in wastewater can make our cities more sustainable COVID-19 showed us how useful monitoring wastewater can be. But the genetic material in our wastewater, namely DNA and RNA, is a treasure trove of other useful information. It reveals the presence of thousands of different types of weird and wonderful wastewater microbes.
	The secrets of tea plant immunity: Research identifies key phenolamides in battle against anthracnose Tea anthracnose significantly impacts China's tea production, with no effective control methods currently available. Research has shifted towards phenolamides, secondary metabolites with potential disease resistance properties. Although these compounds are effective in various plants, their role in tea plants remains under-researched.
	Field weed control: Synthetic microbial communities slash herbicide use Synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) are emerging as powerful allies in the battle against weeds. These carefully crafted assemblies of microorganisms, such as compatible Pseudomonas strains, are designed to target specific weeds while promoting crop growth.
	Why don't people care about Australia's native rodents? The problem could be their ugly names The common names of Australian animals often originate in Aboriginal languages, and beneficially so. Continuing use of names such as kangaroo and kookaburra helps to honor the wealth of knowledge possessed by First Nations peoples, to appreciate the natural heritage of a place more deeply, and to naturalize English to this continent.
	Back-to-back cyclones and flood plume impacts on the Great Barrier Reef Back-to-back cyclones have exposed the Great Barrier Reef to extensive and persistent flood plumes from Ingham up to Cape York Peninsula, with terrestrial runoff lathering coral reef and seagrass ecosystems for weeks.
	Exploring the unseen: Microbial wonders in Earth's saltiest waters A recent study published in the journal Environmental Science and Ecotechnology explores the largely unknown metabolic capabilities of unclassified microbial species in extreme environments, particularly hypersaline lakes, and their potential applications in biotechnology, medicine, and environmental remediation.
	Lab-grown canine skin provides canvas for testing medical treatments Reproducible in-vitro canine skin has been grown in a laboratory setting for the first time by researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB.
	Transcription factor's key role in grafted cucumbers reveals salt tolerance in crops Soil salinity, impacting about 1 billion square hectometers worldwide, significantly hinders crop growth. Plants counteract this through signaling pathways involving molecules such as H2O2 and ABA. NAC transcription factors, which are unique to plants, play a central role in the regulation of these stress responses.
	Critical insights into bacterial fruit blotch and its impact on melon and watermelon crop health A new study at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem unveils critical insights into bacterial fruit blotch, a severe disease affecting melon and watermelon crops. The research focuses on the role of the effector AopW1, shedding light on its significance in host adaptation and providing new perspectives on the HopW1 family of bacterial effectors.
	New study reveals transformative power of aquaculture in Zambia A new study led by the University of Stirling has revealed for the first time substantial benefits from adopting smallholder aquaculture for Zambian farmers. The research provides compelling evidence of how fish farming diversifies livelihoods and improves food and nutrition security in rural areas.
	Uganda pesticide risk rises after AGOA expulsion Ugandans are at increased risk of diabetes and cancer in the wake of the country's expulsion from a trade pact with the U.S., nutritionists say.
	Using agricultural residues for fuel and chemicals A Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) scientist is part of a research team shedding new light on how to access the sugars locked up in plant materials in order to convert byproducts into new feedstocks for production of fuels, materials and chemicals.
	NZ has the energy resources to adopt alternative food technologies—it just needs a plan The potential for alternative foods to displace and disrupt conventional agricultural production has been discussed and debated for some time. While it may still be too early to make firm predictions, the trends are clear.
	Warm weather forces park officials to suspend Isle Royale wolf count for first time in decades A stretch of unusually warm weather has forced federal officials to suspend researchers' annual wolf-moose count in Isle Royale National Park for the first time in more than six decades.
	Cost analysis of using cover crops in citrus production The citrus industry in Florida, a historic hub for citrus (Citrus sp.) production, has been grappling with the devastating effects of Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease (Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus). In the face of this challenge, a recent study delves into the potential economic viability of incorporating cover crops in citrus groves to enhance soil health and overall tree well-being.

Medicine and Health news

	Differences in heart rate variability in pregnant women could be marker for premature delivery A team of obstetricians, gynecologists and data analysts from West Virginia University School of Medicine and the West Virginia University School of Public Health, working with colleagues from WHOOP Inc., has found evidence that wrist-based heart rate monitors could predict a premature birth.
	Whole-brain projection patterns of single neurons in mouse hippocampus unveiled A study published in Science reports a comprehensive database of single-neuron projectomes consisting of over 10,000 mouse hippocampal neurons, thus revealing the spatial connectivity patterns of mouse hippocampal neurons at the mesoscopic level.
	Targeting treatment resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia with a compound that goes beyond current BTK inhibitors New research from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and collaborating organizations has identified a next-generation BTK degrader that could help overcome treatment resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and related blood cancers.
	Study shows why women are at greater risk of autoimmune disease Somewhere between 24 and 50 million Americans have an autoimmune disease, a condition in which the immune system attacks our own tissues. As many as four out of five of those people are women.
	Researchers find new techniques to repair lung tissue after damage from flu and COVID-19 In the human body, the lungs and their vasculature can be likened to a building with an intricate plumbing system. The lungs' blood vessels are the pipes essential for transporting blood and nutrients for oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide removal. Much like how pipes can get rusty or clogged, disrupting normal water flow, damage from respiratory viruses, like SARS-CoV-2 or influenza, can interfere with this "plumbing system."
	DNA vaccination induces sustained virus-specific CD8+ T cell immunity in AIDS monkey model Researchers have found that PD-1-enhanced DNA vaccination can induce sustained virus-specific CD8+ T cell immunity in an AIDS monkey model. The vaccinated monkeys remained free of AIDS for six years and achieved virologic control without the need for combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), a treatment used to suppress viral replication in individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
	New potential immunotherapies for pancreatic cancer Pancreatic cancer can be a devastating diagnosis due to its extremely aggressive nature and low survival rate. But there may be hope on the horizon thanks to scientists at RUSH who have discovered two new targets for decreasing the progression of pancreatic cancer.
	Promising heart drugs identified by cutting-edge combo of machine learning, human learning University of Virginia scientists have developed a new approach to machine learning—a form of artificial intelligence—to identify drugs that help minimize harmful scarring after a heart attack or other injuries. The findings are published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
	Investigating methods for preventing pancreatitis after endoscopy Anti-inflammatory drugs alone are not sufficient to prevent inflammation of the pancreas following a common endoscopic procedure, according to a study recently published in The Lancet.
	New 4D imaging may detect poor pumping in deadly heart disease In a new study published in iScience, Mayo Clinic researchers found that a novel 4D echo imaging method that measures cardiac strain may detect subtle changes in the heart's dysfunction during acute myocarditis, a deadly heart disease.
	Researchers use the eye as a window to study liver health Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a method to study liver function and disease without requiring invasive procedures. After transplanting liver cells into the eye of mice, the cornea can be used as a window into the body to monitor liver health over time. The study is published in the journal Nature Communications.
	Study discovers neurons in the human brain that can predict what we are going to say before we say it By using advanced brain recording techniques, a new study led by researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) demonstrates how neurons in the human brain work together to allow people to think about what words they want to say and then produce them aloud through speech.
	Light, labor inducer could treat skin condition vitiligo Patients with an appearance-altering skin condition may have relief thanks to an unlikely cocktail of a molecule that induces labor, an immunosuppressant medication and controlled UVB irradiation.
	Single-dose dengue vaccine protects 79.6% of those vaccinated, study shows A single-dose dengue vaccine produced by Butantan Institute in São Paulo state (Brazil) prevents development of the disease in 79.6% of those vaccinated, according to an article published in The New England Journal of Medicine.
	Scientists discover a potential way to repair synapses damaged in Alzheimer's disease While newly approved drugs for Alzheimer's show some promise for slowing the memory-robbing disease, the current treatments fall far short of being effective at regaining memory. What is needed are more treatment options targeted to restore memory, said Buck Institute for Research on Aging Assistant Professor Tara Tracy, Ph.D., the senior author of a study that proposes an alternate strategy for reversing the memory problems that accompany Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
	'Rare positive result' in trial of new support intervention for people with dementia and their family caregivers   Research led by Claudia Cooper, Professor of Psychological Medicine at Queen Mary University of London, shows that a new therapy, NIDUS-Family, helps people with dementia and their family caregivers attain their personal goals.
	Researchers produce the first 3D-printed functional human brain tissue A team of University of Wisconsin–Madison scientists has developed the first 3D-printed brain tissue that can grow and function like typical brain tissue.
	For diabetes and liver cancer, study suggests new screening guidelines For centuries, doctors have used their hands as essential diagnostic tools—exploring joints and palpating abdomens to assess a patient's health. Often a cancer will reveal itself as a lump or unusual stiffness in a normally bouncy tissue or organ.
	New clot-busting medication simplified stroke treatment in specialized ambulance Compared with the standard clot-busting medication alteplase, the newer clot-buster known as tenecteplase may offer a safe, effective and simpler way to treat ischemic (clot-caused) stroke in mobile stroke units, according to real-world experiences detailed in a preliminary study to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9, and is a world premier meeting for researchers and clinicians dedicated to the science of stroke and brain health.
	More neighborhood fitness spaces linked to higher physical activity levels after stroke Stroke survivors were more likely to remain physically active or even exercise more after their stroke if they lived in neighborhoods with easy access to recreational centers and gyms, according to a preliminary study to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9.
	Transgender, non-binary, gender-diverse people more likely to have a long-term mental health condition, says study The risk of having a long-term mental health condition in England is roughly one in six for transgender men and women (16.4% and 15.9% respectively) and one in ten for cisgender men and women (8.8% and 12.0%), suggests the first nationally representative analysis published in The Lancet Public Health journal. The risk of reporting a mental health condition was even higher for some gender minority groups, reaching almost one in two (47.2%) for non-binary transgender individuals.
	Stroke or stroke plus neck artery tear almost doubles risk of heart attack within a year, finds research Heart attack risk almost doubles in the first year after a stroke or when combined with a tear in a neck artery wall; however, a tear without a stroke does not seem to raise heart attack risk, according to preliminary research to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9.
	Two common types of antidepressants found to be safe for most stroke survivors Most stroke survivors were able to safely take two types of common antidepressants, according to a preliminary study to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9.
	Active components of ginkgo biloba may improve early cognitive recovery after stroke People with ischemic (clot-caused) stroke had better early recovery of cognitive function if treated with intravenous injections of a combination of biologically active components of ginkgo biloba during the first two weeks after the stroke, according to a preliminary study to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9.
	Experiencing stroke-like symptoms may be more traumatic than an actual stroke People with so-called stroke mimics may be even more likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than those with a confirmed stroke, according to preliminary research to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9.
	Black women with high blood pressure before age 35 may have triple the risk of a stroke Black women who develop high blood pressure before age 35 and are on medication for hypertension may have triple the odds of having a stroke, and those who develop high blood pressure before age 45 may have twice the risk of suffering a stroke, according to a preliminary study to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9.
	Nerve stimulation plus intense rehab may improve arm and hand function after stroke Combining brain stimulation with intense physical rehabilitation helped stroke survivors recover movement in their arms and hands and maintain these improvements for one year, according to a study to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9.
	Where you live may be associated with more successful stroke recovery Stroke survivors living in areas with poor economic conditions were twice as likely to have a poor recovery compared to survivors living in areas with better conditions, according to a preliminary study to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024. The meeting will be held in Phoenix, Feb. 7-9.
	New cancer cases to soar 77% by 2050: WHO The number of new cancer cases will rise to more than 35 million in 2050—77 percent higher than the figure in 2022, the World Health Organization's cancer agency warned Thursday.
	Social inequity linked to lower use of epidural in childbirth In a study of women in labor in the U. S., social inequity was associated with lower use of neuraxial analgesia—an epidural or spinal pain reliever— among non-Hispanic white women and, to a greater extent, among African American women, according to research at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons (P&S). The results are published online in Obstetrics & Gynecology.
	Human cells building 'molecular highways' captured for first time Researchers at the Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona and the Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO) in Madrid have captured the world's first high-resolution images of the earliest moments of microtubule formation inside human cells.
	Pembrolizumab shows survival benefit for patients with renal cancer For patients with clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), overall survival (OS) is improved for those receiving pembrolizumab versus placebo at a median follow-up of about 57 months, according to a study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology annual Genitourinary Cancers Symposium, held from Jan. 25 to 27 in San Francisco.
	Study finds GERD can induce occurrence of rheumatoid arthritis, but not vice versa Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causally and positively influences rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but RA has no significant influence on GERD, according to a study published online Dec. 13 in Frontiers in Genetics.
	Study finds risk for benign prostatic hyperplasia increases for patients with gout Patients with gout, especially those younger than 60 years, have an increased risk for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), according to a study published online Dec. 26 in Diagnostics.
	Shift toward shorter gestational age seen from 2014 to 2022 From 2014 to 2022, there was a shift toward shorter gestational age, according to the Jan. 31 National Vital Statistics Reports, a publication from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
	Study examines prevalence of mental health disorders in childhood The prevalence of mental health disorders exceeds 11 percent for children and youth aged five to 24 years, according to a study published online Jan. 31 in JAMA Psychiatry.
	Lawmaker wants California workplaces to put naloxone in first-aid kits A new bill would require California workplaces to stock their first-aid kids with a nasal spray that can prevent opioid overdoses, greatly expanding the range of locations that have the lifesaving medication on hand.
	Where are the nation's primary care providers? It's not an easy answer Clinicians at Valley-Wide Health Systems never know who will appear at their clinic in San Luis, a town of about 600 people in southern Colorado.
	Records show Publix opioid sales grew even as addiction crisis prompted other chains' pullback An executive at Teva Pharmaceuticals flagged Publix Super Markets in October 2015 after detecting what he called in an email "serious red flags" with the grocery chain's orders of powerful opioids.
	New approach to the design of therapies that enhance the effect of cholesterol-lowering drugs A research team based at the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC) in Madrid and Aarhus University in Denmark has identified an important mechanism that can result in the regression, or shrinkage, of atherosclerotic plaques. The study identifies cells derived from the smooth muscle cells in the arterial wall as a new target for future therapies.
	Virtual reality grooming is an increasing danger: How can parents keep children safe? Virtual reality (VR) headsets are increasingly popular among adults and children. They are part of extended reality environments, which "enable ever more realistic and immersive experiences."
	Fear of aging is really a fear of the unknown and modern society is making things worse, say researchers For the first time in human history, we have entered an era in which reaching old age is taken for granted. Unlike in ages past, when living to an older age was a luxury afforded mainly to the privileged, globally around 79% of women and 70% of men can expect to reach the age of 65 and beyond.
	Expert explains how new pediatric heart surgery guidelines will impact care Every year, more than 40,000 patients in the U.S. undergo congenital heart surgery. But across centers, studies have shown that there can be significant variations in outcomes for these patients.
	Analysis shows Black Americans have highest cancer mortality rates in the US Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and for Black and African Americans, the numbers are even worse. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health found Black/African Americans have the highest mortality rate of any racial and ethnic group for all cancers combined and for most major cancers.
	It's called 'cozy cardio.' In a world seeking comfort, some see a happier mode of exercise Political polarization. Economic struggles. Inequity. Climate change. War. In an often-bruising world, you can hardly blame people for seeking out ways to cushion themselves. From weighted blankets to "cozy" murder mystery novels to entire restaurants and cookbooks based on childhood comfort foods, the appetite for comfortable things just keeps growing.
	Lifetime exposure to sexual assault and other traumatic stress may harm stroke recovery Stressors and traumatic events experienced over the course of a lifetime may negatively impact subsequent stroke recovery; specifically, stroke survivors exposed to sexual assault at any point in their life had poorer physical functioning and cognitive outcomes one year after a stroke, according to a preliminary study presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024, held in Phoenix, Feb. 7–9.
	CT scan is most effective to assess people with chest pain, research finds Previous studies have found less than 40% of patients with stable chest pain undergoing invasive coronary angiography are found to have obstructive coronary artery disease. Recent randomized clinical trials have demonstrated a benefit to using computed tomography angiography (CTA) first in evaluation of these patients.
	Understanding rapid weight loss in older women Unexplained rapid weight loss in older people could be a sign of underlying disease and can be linked with increased risk of falls and fractures, as well as a poorer long-term prognosis.
	Small RNAs take on the big task of helping skin wounds heal better and faster with minimal scarring Recent findings published in The American Journal of Pathology report that a class of small RNAs (microRNAs) known as microRNA-29 can restore normal skin structure rather than producing a wound closure by a connective tissue (scar). Any improvement of normal skin repair would benefit many patients affected by large-area or deep wounds prone to dysfunctional scarring.
	How does cancer spread to other parts of the body? All cancers begin in a single organ or tissue, such as the lungs or skin. When these cancers are confined in their original organ or tissue, they are generally more treatable.
	Disturbed skin microbiome increases the risk of radiodermatitis in radiotherapy patients, finds study Many cancer patients develop severe dermatitis during radiotherapy. Which factors increase the risk of such radiodermatitis has only been partially understood up until now. A pilot study at the University of Augsburg, the Technical University of Munich (TUM), and Helmholtz Munich now points to the important role played by skin bacteria.
	Tiny particles offer big clues toward predicting Alzheimer's decades in advance In a study published in the journal, Cells, a team of scientists describe using machine learning models to identify changes in RNA molecules of plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) that may hold potential for identifying Alzheimer's disease (AD) at its earliest stages.
	Five things women should ask their OB-GYN about their heart From the time they reach reproductive age, women are encouraged to visit an OB-GYN at least once a year for a wellness exam that may include screening for breast or cervical cancer, sexually transmitted diseases or other issues involving their reproductive organs.
	Treatment with N-acetyl-L-leucine beneficial for Niemann-Pick disease Treatment with N-acetyl-L-leucine (NALL) for 12 weeks yields better neurological status than placebo among patients with genetically confirmed Niemann-Pick disease type C, according to a study published in the Feb. 1 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
	More cancers linked to contaminated water at camp Lejeune A much anticipated government study finds that military personnel stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina between 1975 and 1985 face at least a 20% higher risk for certain cancers than those stationed elsewhere.
	In utero stimulant exposure not tied to later neurodevelopmental issues Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate exposure in utero does not appear to increase the risk for childhood neurodevelopmental disorders, according to a study published online Jan. 24 in JAMA Psychiatry.
	Loneliness is plaguing Americans in 2024: poll Americans are terribly lonely, a new poll reveals.
	Despite US suicide epidemic, medical students still don't receive adequate training to treat suicidal patients Suicide in the U.S. is a societal epidemic and a staggering public health crisis that demands attention from medical experts.
	Halo effect: Do attractive people really look less guilty? How the evidence is changing You might think attractive people get preferential treatment in life—and research suggests you'd be right. Some psychologists have shown this can even help people get a lighter prison sentence. More recently, however, our own study suggests that this "halo effect" is, in fact, more complicated.
	Suffering in silence: Men's and boys' mental health are still overlooked in sport For men and boys, caring about sport typically conjures images of passionate competition and fighting for the win. This understanding of care leaves little room for self-care, health and safety, and emotional vulnerability—topics that are fraught with risks for boys and men in a sport culture of hypermasculinity.
	Study finds neuromodulation of the brain with ultrasound waves leads to braver behavior in situations of mental conflict Psychologists at the University of Würzburg have investigated the extent to which neuromodulation of the brain with ultrasound waves influences people's behavior. The results can also be used as a basis for therapeutic purposes.
	FDA warns of dangerous counterfeit eyedrops Certain copycat eyedrops may be contaminated and could give users an antibiotic-resistant eye infection, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Wednesday.
	Research finds risk of dementia nearly three times higher the first year after a stroke Having a stroke may significantly increase the risk of developing dementia. The risk of dementia was the highest in the first year after a stroke and remained elevated over a period of 20 years, according to preliminary research presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2024, held in Phoenix, Feb. 7–9.
	Altered cortisol cycle in pregnant women with depressive symptoms may affect gestation process Women with depressive symptoms during pregnancy may experience an alteration in the circadian rhythm of cortisol—a hormone that is necessary for fetal development—which could affect the course of pregnancy. Cortisol increases naturally in pregnant women during pregnancy, but excessive cortisol levels in early pregnancy can negatively impact fetal development, especially if cortisol increases over prolonged periods and especially when cortisol levels are usually lower (e.g., at night).
	Immunologists advance research into long COVID, chronic fatigue syndrome A study led by UMass Chan Medical School viral immunologists Liisa Selin, MD, Ph.D., and Anna Gil, Ph.D., discovered similarities in immune system dysfunction as a potential biomarker among people living with long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The research also introduced a novel treatment and a method to track effective treatment interventions. The research was published online in Brain, Behavior & Immunity.
	Gut bacteria can process dietary fiber into an anti-allergy weapon, finds new study The intricate relationship that exists between humans and the gut microbiome has become a hot research topic, and scientists are constantly uncovering new reasons why a healthy diet can lead to a healthier life.
	Improving outcomes for patients with a deadly form of brain bleed A new study reveals that drainage of cerebrospinal fluid through the spine could help improve outcomes for patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH).
	Can telemedicine be an alternative to on-site physiotherapy care? Back, knee and hip pain as well as osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia are among the most common reasons for incapacity to work and restrictions in everyday life. More than 100 million people in Europe suffer from it. Usually, this pain is treated in local doctor's and physiotherapy practices.
	Can we treat cellular aging like a disease for higher impact care? Expected life span for human beings has been extended significantly over the last century, thanks to medical advancements that have resulted in vaccines to prevent common infectious diseases, improved sanitation practices and better nutrition. However, this longevity revolution comes with a steep price. The exponential rise in rates of Alzheimer's and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, dementia and physical frailty across the globe are by-products of a longer life span. Humankind simply had to start living long enough to experience them.
	Proteins in milk, not just fat, may help reduce oral burn from spicy food Spicy food lovers know that milk can ease the oral burn, but why? Some believe that fat is the soother, with whole cow's milk reducing the bite more than low-fat cow's milk or plant milks. A new study conducted by Penn State food scientists, however, suggests that protein plays a role in cooling the heat sensation, too.
	Improving cancer prevention among people experiencing homelessness While people experiencing homelessness are more exposed to cancer-associated risk factors, there is a lack of awareness and structures for targeted cancer prevention. Yet people experiencing homelessness are twice as likely to be affected by cancer as the housed population.
	Researchers discover early, promising glioblastoma treatment A team of Michigan State University scientists has unveiled a potential game-changer in the fight against glioblastoma, the most common and currently incurable form of brain cancer.
	As cancer therapies improve, more patients with rectal cancer forego surgery While surgery to remove rectal cancer can be necessary and lifesaving, it can sometimes come with significant drawbacks, like loss of bowel control. According to a study led by Wilmot Cancer Institute researchers, patients with rectal cancer who respond well to radiation and chemotherapy are increasingly foregoing surgery and opting for a watch-and-wait approach.
	Findings indicate favorable safety profile for CL2020 Muse cell-based therapeutic for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of motor functions, which eventually leads to death within five years of its onset. This disease causes weakness and atrophy of limbs and other muscles, which affect mobility speech, eating, and even breathing in patients.
	Veterans with housing insecurity benefit from making music, finds study A study by U.S. Department of Veterans Health Administration and Regenstrief Institute research scientists Dawn Bravata, M.D., and Nicholas Rattray, Ph.D., evaluates a participatory music program's effect on veterans struggling with housing insecurity.
	cfDNA sequencing enhances non-invasive early detection of gestational diabetes Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent pregnancy complication posing significant health risks to both mothers and their newborns. Early detection and treatment of GDM are crucial to prevent adverse outcomes. Current screening methods, like glucose tolerance tests, are performed after 24 weeks of pregnancy and have limitations in patient compliance and accuracy.
	Unlocking the mysteries of a heart disease trigger As the body ages, it is normal for changes in cells to occur.
	Newest COVID shots are 54% effective in preventing symptoms, CDC finds The latest versions of COVID-19 vaccines were 54% effective at preventing symptomatic infection in adults, according to the first U.S. study to assess how well the shots work.
	Less invasive for patients: Using blood tests to diagnose lung cancer Currently, when lung cancer is suspected, a "morsel" of tissue is removed and examined under the microscope. This may change in the future. During her Ph.D. research, Sylvia Roovers-Genet examined proteins in the blood of people with, without, and with possible lung cancer, and thereby developed a method to demonstrate the presence of lung cancer through blood tests. This method can be developed in the future, with the goal of making it suitable for predicting lung cancer.
	Study of alcohol treatment completion reveals greater disparities for women of color An intersectional study of alcohol treatment completion rates reveals striking disparities for racial and ethnic minoritized women when compared to white men. Overall, women complete treatment at slightly lower rates than men, but the completion rates for Black, Latina, American Indian, and Native Alaskan women compared to white men are significantly lower. In some cases, these intersectional disparities are more than double those found by assessing only gender or race and ethnicity alone.
	Is high-intensity training advantageous in individuals with chronic traumatic brain injury? A new study suggests that high-intensity training (HIT), compared to conventional training, may improve walking ability in patients with chronic traumatic brain injury (TBI). Possible secondary benefits may include improved aerobic capacity/efficiency and cognition.
	Researchers identify critical pathway responsible for melanoma drug resistance One of the major challenges in cancer research and clinical care is understanding the molecular basis for therapeutic resistance as a major cause of long-term treatment failures. In cases of melanoma, the main targeted therapeutic strategy is directed against the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Unfortunately, in the vast majority of these patients, resistance to MAPK inhibitor therapies develops within one year of treatment.
	Three things every woman should know about stroke risk Dr. Tracy Madsen has been studying the topic of women and stroke since beginning her residency in emergency medicine at Brown's Warren Alpert Medical School in 2008. She originally focused on the disparities in the treatment of women in the emergency department.
	New recommendations to enhance dental radiography safety say lead aprons, thyroid collars not necessary The use of lead abdominal aprons or thyroid collars on patients when conducting dental X-rays is no longer recommended, according to an expert panel established by the American Dental Association (ADA) Council on Scientific Affairs. Additionally, dentists should take into consideration the diagnostic information needed from X-rays to benefit patient care or substantially improve clinical outcomes.
	Report: US prescription drug prices are 2.78 times those in other wealthy nations Prescription drug prices in the U.S. are significantly higher than in other nations, with prices in the U.S. averaging 2.78 times those seen in 33 other nations, according to a new RAND report.
	Insulin prices in US are nine times higher than in other wealthy nations, report finds The gross price of insulin in the U.S. is more than nine times higher than in 33 high-income comparison nations, according to a new RAND report.
	New prescription drugs typically sold first in US: Report Most new prescription drugs are sold first in the U.S. before they reach other nations, but ultimately important medications are sold across most wealthy nations within about a year of first sale, according to a new RAND report.
	Don't lower the price: Three effective ways to reduce the costs of smoking in New Zealand Associate Health Minister Casey Costello recently said she was concerned about the financial burden on people who smoke. She has requested advice on freezing the Consumers Price Index (CPI) adjustment applied annually to tobacco products, according to a leaked Ministry of Health document.
	A new Australian government inquiry will examine women's pain and treatment: How and why it's different The Victorian government has announced an inquiry into women's pain. Given women are disproportionately affected by pain, such a thorough investigation is long overdue.
	Five key facts about cancer With nearly 10 million deaths and nearly 20 million new cases in 2022, cancer remains one of the world's biggest killers, according to a report on Thursday by the World Health Organization.
	US govt to send drugmakers initial offers in price talks The US government said Thursday it was making initial offers to drugmakers as part of Medicare negotiations meant to lower the prices many older Americans would pay for 10 medicines.
	Is social media affecting your child's health? A Miami children's hospital takes action Depression. Addiction. Eating disorders. A "mental health tsunami" is affecting kids and teens. And research shows a correlation between the internet, social media and an increase among children for suicidal thoughts and other health-related concerns, experts say.
	CDC issues alert as measles cases pop up in Georgia and other states The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging clinicians to be alert for measles cases after 23 cases of the extremely contagious disease were recently confirmed in the U.S., including two in Georgia.
	Video: Expert discusses screen time tips for your toddler's brain The average American toddler spends up to two hours per day in front of a screen, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which has been studying the effect of screen time and media on children for decades. And it's not just TV anymore, with smartphones and tablets becoming increasingly ever-present.
	Validated classification criteria for calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) disease Calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) disease is a common, symptomatic arthritis, but until now there have been there are no validated classification criteria. This has hampered research in this common disease that becomes more frequent with increasing age.
	Reproductive grief screening tool could reshape mental health treatment, open conversations about loss Researchers with the Indiana University School of Liberal Arts at IUPUI are bringing attention to grief felt by patients after a reproductive loss by helping to create a tool that can reshape clinical practice and aid patients facing complicated grief.
	Publicis settles opioid case with US states for $350 mn Publicis Health will pay $350 million to settle charges from US states that its "predatory and deceptive marketing strategies" worsened the opioid epidemic, New York's top prosecutor said Thursday.
	Study lays out options for Scotland's first drug checking services An extensive study led by the University of Stirling has laid out options and key considerations for Scotland's first drug checking services (DCS).
	Rural placements for medical students in Canada feed 'pipeline' for new family docs New research shows an innovative education program is helping to address Alberta's rural doctor shortage by making it more likely medical students will set up a rural family practice after graduation.
	Points to consider in hyperinflammation Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) are life-threatening systemic hyperinflammatory syndromes. Systemic hyperinflammation and HLH/MAS can occur in nearly any inflammatory state, but there are certain predisposing conditions and inflammatory triggers. This includes rheumatic diseases, malignancies, metabolic diseases, and genetic immune problems.

Other Sciences news

	Experiments suggest ancient four-holed ivory baton was used to make rope A pair of historians at the University of Tübingen have found evidence that an ancient baton, thought to be a work of art created by early humans thousands of years ago, is actually a device to assist with making rope. In their study, published in the journal Science Advances, Nicholas Conard and Veerle Rots created a replica of the baton and found that it could easily be used to make rope.
	Swarming cicadas, stock traders, and the wisdom of the crowd The springtime emergence of vast swarms of cicadas can be explained by a mathematical model of collective decision-making that has similarities to models describing stock market crashes.
	'Mom talk:' Study finds immigrant bilingual Latina mothers have dual-language personalities Children who hear a language other than English at home currently make up more than 25% of the school-aged population in the United States. A large majority of those children hear Spanish because that is the native language of their parents. When their parents came to the U.S., they brought not only their language, but also their culture with them.
	Most prisoners never receive visitors, and this may put them at a higher risk of re-offending "It was like walking through the gates of hell." That's what one visitor to a prison told us about their experience. It can be a traumatic and stressful event. Family members of first-time prisoners are most often left in a state of uncertainty about what happens next. This is coupled with the feelings of loss, devastation, and disbelief, as explained by one participant in our research:
	Boosting teacher well-being at the start of term helps combat attrition and burnout, research suggests Supporting teacher well-being at the start of term is integral to sustaining their well-being long-term, according to UNSW research. Understanding how we can better support teacher well-being and how it changes over time will help reduce the current high burnout and attrition rates, says Scientia Associate Professor Rebecca Collie from UNSW's School of Education.
	When hiring a candidate, knowing about socioeconomic disparities impacts fairness perceptions, study finds Both liberals and conservatives are more likely to believe that merit-based hiring is unfair after learning about the impacts of socioeconomic disparities, according to a study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General.
	Are social media apps dangerous? Scholars explain how companies rely on young users but fail to protect them "You have blood on your hands."
	Jealousy: Study finds we understand our own sex best We may not always fully understand why our partners get jealous, and women and men often get jealous for completely different reasons.
	Study highlights key social forces shaping worldwide academic freedom trends Recent crackdowns on academic freedom span the globe, from cases of university closures in Turkey, the dismissal of professors in China, and attacks on scholars in India to legislative restrictions on race and gender curriculum in Hungary and the U.S.
	AI can help, and hurt, student creativity Teachers across the country are grappling with whether to view AI tools like ChatGPT as friend or foe in the classroom. My research shows that the answer isn't always simple. It can be both.
	Research finds higher customer support for companies that cut CEO pay, not jobs, during COVID Hospitality businesses that treat employees with care and empathy during times of crisis can activate considerable brand loyalty and generate future business among customers with high ethical idealism, according to a new study co-authored by a researcher in the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The study appears in Cornell Hospitality Quarterly.
	New literature review on 'crisis of confidence' due to lack of reproducibility in academic research In light of recent cases of plagiarism and academic fraud at institutions across the country, a Virginia Commonwealth University professor's new study provides a timely review of the current state of research findings in academia, especially fields related to psychology and management.
	Regulation makes crypto markets more efficient, says research First-of-its-kind research on cryptocurrency finds that the most regulated coins create the most efficient markets.
	Under the skin: Bullying's hidden health effects Intimidation at school is a widespread and worrying phenomenon being examined through psychology and genomics.
	Mass layoffs, social media bias and AI lawsuits: Experts discuss the state of the Fourth Estate A wave of layoffs at high-profile legacy media outlets such as the Los Angeles Times and Time magazine has rippled across the news industry just as journalists at other major outlets are engaged in union negotiations with their employers. The industry seems to have reached a pivotal point amid a confluence of financial, political, social and technological challenges.
	Give peace a chance: The way conflict can be eased, according to social psychology How to reduce aggression when two parties are at odds? Ph.D. research by psychologist Lennart Reddmann shows that it can help to offer them a peaceful alternative. However, the attacking party benefits the most from such a solution.
	Understanding music-performance anxiety in children Do music pupils in primary school suffer from performance anxiety?
	TV network was slammed for 'AI editing' a Victorian MP's dress. How can news media use AI responsibly? Earlier this week, Channel Nine published an altered image of Victorian MP Georgie Purcell that showed her in a midriff-exposing tank top. The outfit was actually a dress.
	Local geographic variations found in children's school readiness in England Research by Dr. K. Purdam and colleagues from Social Statistics has highlighted the substantial differences in school readiness at the individual, school and local area levels in England. The work is published in the journal Child Indicators Research.
	Republicans and Democrats consider each other immoral. Even when treated fairly and kindly by the opposition Both Republicans and Democrats regarded people with opposing political views as less moral than people in their own party, even when their political opposites acted fairly or kindly toward them, according to experiments my colleagues and I recently conducted. Even participants who self-identified as only moderately conservative or liberal made the same harsh moral judgments about those on the other side of the political divide.
	How the social structures of Nazi Germany created a bystander society In the initial post-war judicial proceedings to establish what had happened under Nazism, and to punish the perpetrators of crimes, victims' accounts were often discredited. Only in 1961, with the high-profile trial of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann in Jerusalem, did the focus shift.
	Masculinity and women's equality: UK report finds emerging gender divide in young people's attitudes Young people's attitudes to masculinity and women's equality show signs of an emerging gender divide, with the views of men and women often differing more within younger, rather than older, generations, according to a new report.
	How preferences for Indigenous policies differ between the Indigenous and majority populations in Norway and Sweden On the international level, there is broad consensus that it is essential to recognize and implement Indigenous rights as well as to correct inequalities and historical injustices. Yet many nation-states struggle with effective implementation.

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