Science X Newsletter Mon, Mar 18

Dear ,

Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for March 18, 2024:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

A skating, tri-pedal robot capable of highly stable locomotion

Greenland Ice Sheet motion minimally impacted by late-season melting, study finds

Pour points: A novel method for woodland water resource management

JWST observations shed more light on the nature of a distant galaxy cluster

A new framework to collect training data and teach robots new manipulation policies

Two artificial intelligences talk to each other

Dune: What the climate of Arrakis can tell us about the hunt for habitable exoplanets

Brazilian single-dose dengue vaccine could help turn tide in the fight against fever

Investigating the many flavors of edible ants

Saturday Citations: The volcanoes of Mars; Starship launched; 'Try our new menu item,' say Australian researchers

Researchers take deep dive into how much water is stored in snow

Ebola: Scientists reveal a new way it replicates

Weight loss caused by common diabetes drug tied to 'anti-hunger' molecule in study

Study shows glucose levels affect cognitive performance in people with type 1 diabetes differently

New composite decking could reduce global warming effects of building materials

Nanotechnology news

	Backyard insect inspires invisibility devices, next gen tech Leafhoppers, a common backyard insect, secrete and coat themselves in tiny mysterious particles that could provide both the inspiration and the instructions for next-generation technology, according to a new study led by Penn State researchers.
	Researchers achieve low-energy synthesis of bulk van der Waals materials Researchers have synthesized bulk van der Waals (vdW) materials at near-room temperature (ranging from room temperature to 60°C), significantly reducing the energy consumption required for their fabrication by at least one order of magnitude.
	New nanoprobes developed to monitor programmed cell death–related bioprocesses A research team led by Prof. Huang Qing from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed DNA-aptamer-based surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) probes to study immune system biomarker-related bioprocesses in cancer cell metabolism.
	Researchers demonstrate breakthrough recyclability of carbon nanotube sheets Researchers at IMDEA Materials Institute have demonstrated for the first time the recyclability of high-performance carbon nanotube (CNT) sheets while maintaining their essential mechanical and electrical properties.
	Researchers discover tightest arrangement of bilayer alkali metals between graphene layers Researchers at AIST, in collaboration with Osaka University, Tokyo Polytechnic University, Kyushu University, and National Tsing Hua University, have developed a technique to insert alkali metals into the interlayers of graphene, which is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. They have succeeded in directly observing the atomic arrangement of the inserted alkali metal atoms which is a hexagonal close packed bilayer structure.
	Eyes on the impossible: First near-field, subwavelength thermal radiation measurement Nanodevices change the way we diagnose disease, process food and water, and store renewable energy. But to keep up with next-generation technology, researchers need to understand the fundamental principles that prompt their functionality.
	A simple, scalable method using light to 3D print helical nanostructures A new fabrication process for helical metal nanoparticles provides a simpler, cheaper way to rapidly produce a material essential for biomedical and optical devices, according to a study by University of Michigan researchers.
	Researchers develop novel 'super-tetragonal' sacrificial layer for freestanding oxide membranes Researchers have developed a new water-soluble sacrificial layer, "super-tectragonal" Sr4Al2O7 (SAOT), with broad tunability in lattice constants, which can be used to prepare high-quality freestanding oxide membrane. Their work is published in Science.
	Researchers achieve >99% photoluminescence quantum yield in metal nanoclusters A research team has achieved near-unity room-temperature photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) (>99%) in the near-infrared (NIR) emission of metal nanoclusters in solution. Their work is published in Science.

Physics news

	Holographic message encoded in simple plastic There are many ways to store data—digitally, on a hard disk, or using analog storage technology, for example as a hologram. In most cases, it is technically quite complicated to create a hologram: High-precision laser technology is normally used for this.
	Searching for the decay of nature's rarest isotope: Tantalum-180m Tantalum is one of the rarest elements and has multiple stable isotopes. The least abundant tantalum isotope, Ta-180 is found naturally in a long-lived excited state, a feature unique to this isotope. In excited states, a nuclei's protons or neutrons have higher than normal energy levels.
	Elegant use of noise for quantum computing Scientists around the world work hard to rinse quantum systems for noise, which may disturb the function of tomorrow's powerful quantum computers. Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute (NBI) have found a way to use noise to process quantum information. This raises the performance of the quantum computing unit, the qubit.
	Projection mapping leaves the darkness behind Images projected onto objects in the real world create impressive displays that educate and entertain. However, current projection mapping systems all have one common limitation: they only work well in the dark. In a study recently published in IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics, researchers from Osaka University suggest a way to bring projection mapping "into the light."
	Breakthrough in melting point prediction: 100-year-old physics problem solved A longstanding problem in physics has finally been cracked by Professor Kostya Trachenko of Queen Mary University of London's School of Physical and Chemical Sciences. His research, published in Physical Review E, unveils a general theory for predicting melting points, a fundamental property whose understanding has baffled scientists for over a century.
	Quantum computers can solve combinatorial optimization problems more easily than conventional methods, research shows The traveling salesman problem is considered a prime example of a combinatorial optimization problem. Now a Berlin team led by theoretical physicist Prof. Dr. Jens Eisert of Freie Universität Berlin and HZB has shown that a certain class of such problems can actually be solved better and much faster with quantum computers than with conventional methods.

Earth news

	Greenland Ice Sheet motion minimally impacted by late-season melting, study finds Ice melting has become an ever-pressing concern in recent decades as climate change has brought evocative images of lone polar bears floating on unsustainable small blocks of sea ice. Yet, the consequences are far-reaching in terms of freshening of seawater altering marine ecosystems, sea level rise exacerbating flooding and reduction of ice-albedo feedbacks that further modify Earth's temperature.
	Pour points: A novel method for woodland water resource management Vegetation plays a vital role in regulating the percentage of precipitation reaching the ground to nourish the root systems of plants both in the canopy and undergrowth, which consequently supports the survival of the entire forest ecosystem. Water arrives to the ground via multiple mechanisms, including throughfall (water falling directly through the canopy) or stemflow (water flowing down stems and trunks), while some is intercepted by the canopy leaves and does not reach ground level.
	Researchers take deep dive into how much water is stored in snow A heavy snowpack is fun for skiers and sledders, and it also acts like an open-air storage tank that melts away to provide water for drinking, irrigation and other purposes during dry months.
	Scientists find evidence of a wetter world, recorded in Australian coral colony When climate scientists look to the future to determine what the effects of climate change may be, they use computer models to simulate potential outcomes such as how precipitation will change in a warming world.
	Meteorologists say this year's warm winter provided key ingredient for Midwest killer tornadoes This winter's record warmth provided the key ingredient for a Midwest outbreak of deadly tornadoes and damaging gorilla hail that hit parts of the Midwest Wednesday and Thursday, tornado experts said.
	A volcano in Iceland is erupting for the fourth time in 3 months, sending plumes of lava skywards A volcano in Iceland erupted Saturday evening for the fourth time in three months, sending orange jets of lava into the night sky.
	Methane: a powerful gas heating the planet Climate talks often revolve around reducing the most dangerous greenhouse gas CO2.
	Scientists hack weather satellite data to quantify methane leaks Satellites sitting more than 22,200 miles above the Earth's surface have been capturing storms and weather data for decades. Now, scientists have essentially hacked the data coming back for another purpose: spotting methane emissions.
	Fort Lauderdale is looking at raising roads to battle rising seas It's a scary thought: Sea levels rising by as much as 2 feet, swallowing up land, homes and everything else not on high ground.
	Communities more likely to adopt conservation measures if their neighbors have, says study A new paper published in Global Environmental Change featuring Imperial College London researchers explores how Indigenous-led initiatives can be scaled to protect marine ecosystems.
	Alarm bells ring as scientists uncover major flaws in ability to track changes to global conservation areas In a significant stride towards safeguarding global biodiversity, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) has set a target for nations to preserve 30% of the Earth by 2030.
	Over half of global commutes are by car, says study What is the extent of car dependency around the world? Why should the best places to live be car-free? What are the best public transportation cities? A new study by Rafael Prieto-Curiel, from the Complexity Science Hub, and Juan Pablo Ospina, from EAFIT University, may provide some insights into these questions.
	Alternative tidal wetlands in plain sight have overlooked Blue Carbon superstars Blue Carbon projects are expanding globally; however, demand for credits outweighs the available credits for purchase.
	Study highlights achievements of the scientific drilling of Songliao Basin Since the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, the increase in carbon dioxide emissions has consistently warmed the Earth's climate. At the current warming rate, our planet might potentially be on track toward witnessing a greenhouse climate state with no ice on polar caps.
	Livestock farming is responsible for up to a quarter of air pollution in Lombardy region: Study Agricultural activities and livestock farming are key contributors to the concentrations of hazardous pollutants for health and the environment in the atmosphere, but the potential action in these sectors is often overlooked in public debate.
	How 'Dune' became a beacon for the fledgling environmental movement, and a rallying cry for the new science of ecology "Dune," widely considered one of the best sci-fi novels of all time, continues to influence how writers, artists and inventors envision the future.
	Powerful tornadoes roar through US Midwest, killing 3 Devastating storms pounded three central US states Thursday night, spawning massive tornadoes and claiming at least three lives, officials said Friday.
	The Panama Canal averts a crisis for now—but at a cost to drinking water The Panama Canal has avoided the worst of a shipping crunch that threatened to upend the global economy—but at a cost to marine life and the Latin American country's supplies of drinking water.
	Biden officials mull quicker death for US coal power plants U.S. coal-fired power plants could be forced to shut down two years sooner than envisioned under a Biden administration plan to stifle pollution from the electricity sector.
	Tampa's fall nights are getting hotter: Why researchers worry A new study from researchers at Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University found temperatures are rising during the fall months across the biggest cities in the state. And Tampa is getting the worst of it.
	The hands-on drive for sustainable living in Europe Urban dwellers across the EU are having a say in making their surroundings friendlier to people and the environment.
	California unlikely to meet landmark goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions California is poised to fail to meet its ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals by the end of the decade unless it can triple its efforts to reduce carbon emissions statewide, according to a critical new report.
	Banded iron formations: Oceans, algae and iron oxide Iron ore is a big deal in Australia.
	Domain knowledge drives data-driven artificial intelligence in well logging Data-driven artificial intelligence, such as deep learning and reinforcement learning, possesses powerful data analysis capabilities. These techniques enable the statistical and probabilistic analysis of data, facilitating the mapping of relationships between inputs and outputs without reliance on predetermined physical assumptions.

Astronomy and Space news

	JWST observations shed more light on the nature of a distant galaxy cluster Astronomers from the Nanjing University in China and elsewhere have performed high-resolution observations of a distant galaxy cluster known as CL J1001+0220 using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The observational campaign, described in a paper published March 8 on the preprint server arXiv, yields important information regarding the nature of this cluster.
	Dune: What the climate of Arrakis can tell us about the hunt for habitable exoplanets Frank Herbert's Dune is epic sci-fi storytelling with an environmental message at its heart. The novels and movies are set on the desert planet of Arrakis, which various characters dream of transforming into a greener world—much like some envision for Mars today.
	A holistic look at Earth's chemical cycling sheds light on how the planet stays habitable We all know Earth is special, but we may not fully appreciate how good we have it on this planet. Unlike its planetary neighbors, Earth has remained habitable for billions of years thanks to a complicated, ever-changing dance of elements.
	NASA volunteers find 15 rare 'active asteroids' Some extraordinary asteroids have "activity"—comet-like tails or envelopes of gas and dust. NASA's Active Asteroids project announced the discovery of activity on 15 asteroids, challenging conventional wisdom about the solar system.
	Largest-ever map of universe's active supermassive black holes released Astronomers have charted the largest-ever volume of the universe with a new map of active supermassive black holes living at the centers of galaxies. Called quasars, the gas-gobbling black holes are, ironically, some of the universe's brightest objects.
	Our survey of the sky is uncovering the secrets of how planets are born When we look out to the stars, it is typically not a yearning for the distant depths of outer space that drives us. When we are looking out there, we are truly looking back at ourselves. We try to understand our place in the unimaginable vastness of the universe.
	The spring equinox is here. What does that mean? Spring is almost here—officially, at least. The vernal equinox arrives on Tuesday, marking the start of the spring season for the Northern Hemisphere.
	The cosmic neutrino background would tell us plenty about the universe, says researcher Readers of Universe Today are probably already familiar with the concept of the cosmic microwave background (CMB). Its serendipitous discovery by a pair of radio astronomers at Bell Labs is the stuff of astronomical legend. Over the past decades, it has offered plenty of insights into the Big Bang and the origins of our universe. But there is another, less well-known background signal that could be just as revolutionary—or at least we think there is.
	Could Earth life survive on a red dwarf planet? Even though exoplanet science has advanced significantly in the last decade or two, we're still in an unfortunate situation. Scientists can only make educated guesses about which exoplanets may be habitable. Even the closest exoplanet is four light-years away, and though four is a small integer, the distance is enormous.
	Hubble views dwarf galaxy LEDA 4216 This NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope image shows LEDA 42160, a galaxy about 52 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Virgo. The dwarf galaxy is one of many forcing its way through the comparatively dense gas in the massive Virgo cluster of galaxies. The pressure exerted by this intergalactic gas, known as ram pressure, has dramatic effects on star formation in LEDA 42160.
	Astronaut Thomas Stafford, commander of Apollo 10, has died at age 93 Astronaut Thomas P. Stafford, who commanded a dress rehearsal flight for the 1969 moon landing and the first U.S.-Soviet space linkup, died Monday. He was 93.
	Unlocking clearer views of our world's water: A Landsat legacy Satellite remote sensing is vital for monitoring marine and freshwater ecosystems, leveraging missions like SeaWiFS, MODIS, MERIS, Landsat, and Sentinel to track water parameters such as chlorophyll, sediment, and temperature. The dynamic nature of water bodies demands high-frequency observations for accuracy, with limitations highlighted by factors like clouds and sunlight.
	SpaceX finally manages Kennedy Space Center launch with record-tying booster After two days of scrubs, SpaceX pulled out some Friday night lights sending up another batch of Starlink satellites from Florida's Space Coast using a first-stage booster for a record-tying 19th time.
	SpaceX is building a spy satellite network for US, news agency says Elon Musk's SpaceX is building a network of hundreds of spy satellites under a classified contract with a U.S. intelligence agency, Reuters reported, citing five people familiar with the program.
	As Voyager 1's mission draws to a close, one planetary scientist reflects on its legacy For nearly 50 years, NASA's Voyager 1 mission has competed for the title of deep space's little engine that could. Launched in 1977 along with its twin, Voyager 2, the spacecraft is now soaring more than 15 billion miles from Earth.

Technology news

	A skating, tri-pedal robot capable of highly stable locomotion Researchers at University of Michigan recently developed SKOOTR, a tri-pedal skating robot that can efficiently move around in its surroundings without repeatedly flipping over. This robot, introduced in a paper posted to the preprint server arXiv, was found to be more stable than other three-legged robots, which often exhibit poor stability due to the lack of a fourth leg to better balance their body.
	A new framework to collect training data and teach robots new manipulation policies In recent years, roboticists and computer scientists have been trying to develop increasingly efficient methods to teach robots new skills. Many of the methods developed so far, however, require a large amount of training data, such as annotated human demonstrations of how to perform a task.
	Two artificial intelligences talk to each other Performing a new task based solely on verbal or written instructions, and then describing it to others so that they can reproduce it, is a cornerstone of human communication that still resists artificial intelligence (AI).
	New composite decking could reduce global warming effects of building materials Buildings and production of the materials used in their construction emit a lot of carbon dioxide (CO2), a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change. But storing CO2 in building materials could help make them more environmentally friendly.
	Using wood waste products to produce ink for 3D printing of wood objects A combined team of materials scientists from Rice University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a way to convert wood waste into a type of ink that can be used for the 3D printing of wood-like objects. The paper is published in the journal Science Advances.
	Study explores how wind turbine visibility affects property values across the US Renewable energy sources are essential for transitioning towards a decarbonized energy system and making the electricity grid more environmentally sustainable. Clean energy alternatives like wind power can effectively replace fossil fuels, contributing to reduced air pollution and slowing down climate change.
	Two-faced solar panels can generate more power at up to 70% less cost Researchers have built a new kind of two-faced (bifacial) panel. They used single-walled carbon nanotubes as both front and back electrodes.
	Research could advance soft robotics manufacturing and design Soft robots use pliant materials such as elastomers to interact safely with the human body and other challenging, delicate objects and environments. A team of Rice University researchers has developed an analytical model that can predict the curing time of platinum-catalyzed silicone elastomers as a function of temperature. The model could help reduce energy waste and improve throughput for elastomer-based component manufacturing.
	Bridge in a box: Unlocking origami's power to produce load-bearing structures For the first time, load-bearing structures like bridges and shelters can be made with origami modules—versatile components that can fold compactly and adapt into different shapes—University of Michigan engineers have demonstrated.
	Novel design enhances thermal insulation and impact resistance in composite glass A research team led by Prof. Ni Yong and Prof. He Linghui from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) has developed a new composite glass combining the nacre-inspired structure and shear stiffening gel (SSG) material, maintaining transparency while exhibiting excellent thermal insulation and impact resistance. Their work was published in Advanced Materials.
	Machine learning model detects indoor or outdoor walks based only on movement data The wide availability of wearable sensors allows for rich data collection on a person's walking patterns, providing valuable health insights. But factors like location, terrain or the built environment alter walking behavior, making data difficult to interpret without context.
	Reimagining the future of solar energy Scientists are always on the lookout for ways to make our world a better place, and one area they're focusing on is solar energy. One idea in this area is to make solar cells more efficient by concentrating more solar light on them.
	Scientists develop bifunctional catalyst performance enhancement technology to lower the cost of hydrogen production Researchers have developed a methodology to improve the reversibility and durability of electrodes using bifunctional platinum-nickel alloy catalysts with an octahedral structure that exhibits both oxygen reduction and generation reactions. The study is published in the journal Advanced Energy Materials.
	An innovative mixed light field technique for immersive projection mapping A novel mixed light field technique that utilizes a mix of ray-controlled ambient lighting with projection mapping (PM) to obtain PM in bright surroundings has been developed by scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology. This innovative technology utilizes a novel kaleidoscope array to achieve ray-controlled lighting and a binary search algorithm for removing ambient lighting from PM targets. It provides an immersive augmented reality experience with applications in various fields.
	New algorithm unlocks high-resolution insights for computer vision Imagine yourself glancing at a busy street for a few moments, then trying to sketch the scene you saw from memory. Most people could draw the rough positions of the major objects like cars, people, and crosswalks, but almost no one can draw every detail with pixel-perfect accuracy. The same is true for most modern computer vision algorithms: They are fantastic at capturing high-level details of a scene, but they lose fine-grained details as they process information.
	Pixel perfect: Engineers' new approach brings images into focus Johns Hopkins researchers have developed an efficient new method to turn blurry images into clear, sharp ones. Called Progressively Deblurring Radiance Field (PDRF), this approach deblurs images 15 times faster than previous methods while also achieving better results on both synthetic and real scenes.
	Speaking without vocal cords, thanks to a new AI-assisted wearable device People with voice disorders, including those with pathological vocal cord conditions or who are recovering from laryngeal cancer surgeries, can often find it difficult or impossible to speak. That may soon change.
	Reddit reveals FTC inquiry into deals licensing its users' data for AI training Reddit said Friday that the Federal Trade Commission has opened an inquiry into the social media platform's sale, licensing or sharing of its users' posts and other content to outside organizations for use in training artificial intelligence models.
	Things to know about Uber and Lyft saying they will halt ride-hailing services in Minneapolis Lyft and Uber have said they will halt operations in Minneapolis because of a new city ordinance that increase wages for app-based drivers, the latest salvo in a longtime fight between gig economy workers and the tech giants.
	Boeing urges airlines to check switches after LATAM plane plunge Boeing on Friday warned airlines flying its 787 Dreamliner model to inspect certain switches in the cockpit, after a New Zealand-bound LATAM plane dropped violently mid-flight, injuring dozens of travelers.
	Gemini's flawed AI racial images seen as warning of tech titans' power For people at the trend-setting tech festival here, the scandal that erupted after Google's Gemini chatbot cranked out images of Black and Asian Nazi soldiers was seen as a warning about the power artificial intelligence can give tech titans.
	US to investigate Texas fatal crash that may have involved Ford partially automated driving system The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating a fatal crash in San Antonio, Texas, involving a Ford electric vehicle that may have been using a partially automated driving system.
	Meta investigated over illicit drug sales: Report US authorities are investigating Meta over its role in the illicit sale of medications, The Wall Street Journal reported Saturday.
	Australian taxi drivers win $178 million payout from Uber Australian taxi drivers impacted by the rise of ridesharing giant Uber have won US$178 million in compensation, their lawyers said Monday after settling a grueling legal battle.
	'Art and science:' How bracketologists are using artificial intelligence this March Madness College hoops fans might want to think again before pinning their hopes of a perfect March Madness bracket on artificial intelligence.
	Apple must face lawsuit claiming AirTags are weapon of stalkers Apple Inc. lost a bid to dismiss a lawsuit alleging that its AirTag devices help stalkers track their victims.
	Health insurers split with US over relief after cyberattack Health insurers and U.S. government officials are expected to meet next week to hash out differences over how to assist cash-strapped medical practices, as a cyberattack last month continues to hold up billions of dollars in payments.
	Emissions impossible? How the transport sector can help make the 2050 net-zero goal a reality Meeting Canada's ambitious net-zero emissions target by 2050 necessitates significant technological, behavioral and systemic changes in the transportation sector, a major contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Indeed, the transportation sector alone is responsible for a quarter of all GHG emissions worldwide, with road transport accounting for about 80 percent of this figure.
	Smart meters haven't delivered the promised benefits to electricity users. Here's a way to fix the problems Billions of dollars are being spent worldwide to modernize electricity grids with smart meters. These meters promise to save households money by making it easier for us to understand and manage our energy use. However, our new research suggests these promises might not be fully delivered due to a lack of access to high-resolution, real-time energy data.
	Even as the fusion era dawns, we're still in the Steam Age Steam locomotives clattering along railway tracks. Paddle steamers churning down the Murray. Dreadnought battleships powered by steam engines.
	Nvidia backs little-known upstart in India's biggest AI bet yet It's a sultry March evening in the suburbs of Mumbai and a group of men hovers anxiously at the back gate of a startup called Yotta Data Services. They pace, pause and fret. It's approaching midnight, 10 hours late, when a truck pulls up with the precious cargo they've been waiting for: semiconductors from Nvidia Corp.
	Is Reddit's IPO worth it? Social media site aims to go public 'out of necessity,' says finance expert Despite never having made a profit in its nearly 20-year history, Reddit, the site that bills itself as "the front page of the internet," is gearing up to go public, targeting a valuation of about $6.5 billion.
	Google is trying to reduce its food waste without irritating employees It's not just the headcount at Google that's getting smaller.
	Team develops blockchain-based method to protect and manage personal data on the internet Entering a website and accepting cookies is a very common and oft-repeated gesture when navigating the Internet. But this small action, which is often done automatically and without thought, entails security risks: By consenting to cookies, you lose control over your sensitive information, as you cannot review the conditions you have just accepted.
	Enhancing rechargeable batteries with carbon solutions In a new review published in Resources Chemicals and Materials, a team of researchers from China examined the potential of biomass-derived carbon materials for high-performance rechargeable battery electrodes.
	New technique helps AI tell when humans are lying Researchers have developed a new training tool to help artificial intelligence (AI) programs better account for the fact that humans don't always tell the truth when providing personal information. The new tool was developed for use in contexts when humans have an economic incentive to lie, such as applying for a mortgage or trying to lower their insurance premiums.
	New telerobotic system for hazardous waste clean-up successfully demonstrated Because they can go where humans can't, robots are especially uniquely suited for safely working with hazardous nuclear waste. But first, those robots need to become like the humans they are replacing, with arms and fingers that can closely mimic the movements of a person.
	Pan-sharpening methodology enhances remote sensing images Researchers led by Prof. Xie Chengjun and Assoc. Prof. Zhang Jie from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences have introduced an innovative pan-sharpening method to improve remote sensing images.
	Self-heating concrete is one step closer to putting snow shovels and salt out of business There's a patch of concrete on Drexel University's campus that could portend a frost-free future for sidewalks and highways in the Northeast.
	Apple in talks to bring Google's Gemini AI to iPhone: Report Apple is in advanced negotiations with Google to adopt its powerful Gemini AI models for the iPhone, Bloomberg reported on Monday.
	Sustainable biomass production capacity could triple US bioeconomy, report finds The United States could triple its current economy by producing more than 1 billion tons per year of plant-based biomass for renewable fuels while meeting projected demands for food, feed, fiber, conventional forest products, and exports, according to the Department of Energy's latest Billion-Ton Report led by Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
	Prosecutors urge 40-50 years for crypto fraudster Bankman-Fried US prosecutors have requested that a court sentence disgraced crypto mogul Sam Bankman-Fried to between 40 and 50 years imprisonment for massive fraud that cost customers $8 billion, court documents showed Friday.
	Monsters, asteroids, vampires: AI conspiracies flood TikTok From vampires and wendigos to killer asteroids, TikTok users are pumping out outlandish end-of-the-world conspiracy theories, researchers say, in yet another misinformation trend on a platform whose fate in the United States hangs in the balance.
	TikTok and its 'secret sauce' caught in US-China tussle As a US campaign to sever TikTok from its Chinese parent heads to the Senate, analysts say Beijing's response to a forced sale of the app—and its 'secret sauce' algorithm—will be clear: Hands off.
	Australia demands tech giants tackle 'extremist' content Australia's internet watchdog hit Google, X and Meta with legal notices on Tuesday, demanding the tech giants explain how they are clamping down on "violent extremist material".
	Amazon reports 'measurable progress' on worker safety: Critics object Amazon's safety data shows a decline in its warehouse injury rate in 2023, marking an improvement for the second consecutive year, but critics disagree with how the company measures its worker safety.
	Is TikTok's parent company an agent of the Chinese state? In China Inc., it's a little more complicated Does the Chinese government have officials inside TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, pulling the strings? And does the storing of data from the popular social media app outside of China protect Americans?
	Does TikTok pose a security threat to Canadians? Concerns about the threats TikTok poses to privacy and liberty were raised again, as a bill to divest TikTok of its Chinese ownership or ban it gathered steam in the United States Congress. And Canada's federal government revealed that it began investigating months ago whether foreign control of the app poses a threat to national security.
	US Supreme Court skeptical of curbing govt contact with social media firms A majority of justices on the US Supreme Court appeared skeptical on Monday of efforts to impose restrictions on federal government efforts to curb misinformation online.
	Apex Legends eSports event postponed by hacking claims Organizers of the Apex Legends Global Series eSports tournament have postponed an event after two competitors appeared to be hacked while playing separate games during the North American finals.
	Analysis of transient linear flow-oriented straight-line analysis technique to capture fracking data As an efficacious solution to conventional resource depletion, unconventional reservoirs have emerged in a dominant role in furnishing substantial oil and gas supplies worldwide.

Chemistry news

	Investigating the many flavors of edible ants Insects are typically unwelcome visitors to a picnic, but they could be a flavorful, nutritious and sustainable addition to the menu. Eating insects is common in some parts of the world, and some species are even considered delicacies.
	Innovative chemical strategy targets mosquito larvae gut to combat spread of deadly diseases Mosquito-borne illnesses remain a formidable challenge threatening millions of people each year with diseases such as malaria, dengue, zika and chikungunya.
	Using light to produce medication and plastics more efficiently Anyone who wants to produce medication, plastics or fertilizer using conventional methods needs heat for chemical reactions—but not so with photochemistry, where light provides the energy. The process to achieve the desired product also often takes fewer intermediate steps.
	Using AI to develop a new method for improving electrocatalytic converters Prof Dr. Johannes Margraf and a team of scientists have developed a promising method to improve the efficiency of electrocatalysts. Using simulations and artificial intelligence, the researchers have developed a computer program that can simultaneously optimize several properties of the catalyst. The results have now been published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.
	Supercomputer simulations of super-diamond suggest a path to its creation Diamond is the strongest material known. However, another form of carbon has been predicted to be even tougher than diamond. The challenge is how to create it on Earth.
	Transforming wood waste for sustainable manufacturing Lignin, a complex organic polymer, is one of the main components of wood, providing structural support and rigidity to make trees strong enough to withstand the elements. When transforming wood into paper, lignin is a key ingredient that must be removed, and it often becomes waste.
	Artificial mucus identifies link to tumor formation During cold and flu season, excess mucus is a common, unpleasant symptom of illness, but the slippery substance is essential to human health. To better understand its many roles, researchers synthesized the major component of mucus, the sugar-coated proteins called mucins, and discovered that changing the mucins of healthy cells to resemble those of cancer cells made healthy cells act more cancer-like.
	Better kombucha brewing through chemistry Kombucha is a fermented tea known for its health benefits and tangy kick. But brewers can find it challenging to keep kombucha's alcohol levels low because the bacteria and yeast used in the fermentation process vary from batch to batch.
	Research team designs new porous materials to advance environmental remediation research In a landmark achievement, the Functional Materials Group (FMG) led by Prof. Dr. Bassam Alameddine, has propelled porous materials research to new horizons. The latest endeavor was highlighted in a study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces showcasing the FMG's pioneering work in designing new materials that uptake carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and iodine gases, thus, igniting interest across scientific communities worldwide.
	Researchers unveil new digital twin for precise real-time analysis of composite materials production Researchers from IMDEA Materials Institute and the Technical University of Madrid (UPM) have developed an innovative digital twin that enables real-time analysis of composite materials manufacturing.
	What washing machine settings can I use to make my clothes last longer? Orbiting 400 kilometers above Earth's surface, the astronauts on the International Space Station live a pretty normal social life, if not for one thing: they happily wear their unwashed clothes for days and weeks at a time. They can't do their laundry just yet because water is scarce up there.
	Electronic perturbation-promoted interfacial pathway for facile C–H dissociation Pt-based catalysts have been extensively employed in catalytic propane dehydrogenation (PDH) processes, playing a crucial role in propylene production. However, monometallic Pt catalysts often exhibit inferior propylene selectivity due to the hydrogenolysis, rapid deactivation from coke deposits, and nanoparticle sintering. To address these challenges, various metals (Sn, Zn, Ga, Co, etc.) have been introduced to enhance the selectivity and stability of Pt-based catalysts.

Biology news

	Ebola: Scientists reveal a new way it replicates Scientists in Canada and the U.S. have discovered a new way in which Ebola—an often deadly virus affecting people mostly in sub-Saharan Africa—reproduces in the body.
	Using a non-destructive, light diffraction fingerprint technique to detect viral infections in cells A combined team of engineers from Jiangsu University and Harvard University used a non-destructive, light diffraction fingerprint technique to detect viral infections in cells. Their paper is published in the journal Science Advances.
	Smelling danger in the water: Schreckstoff mystery solved after 86 years Researchers led by Yoshihiro Yoshihara at the RIKEN Center for Brain Science in Japan have solved a fishy mystery dating back to 1938: What is the schreckstoff—or alarm substance—that fish smell when their shoal-mates are injured?
	Genes identified that allow bacteria to thrive despite toxic heavy metal in soil Some soil bacteria can acquire sets of genes that enable them to pump the heavy metal nickel out of their systems, a study has found. This enables the bacteria to not only thrive in otherwise toxic soils but help plants grow there as well.
	Researchers develop genomic method of monitoring for pesticide resistance Farmers rely on pesticides to control agricultural pests. But insects often develop resistance to the toxins in pesticides. University of Maryland researchers have developed and successfully tested a strategy for using genomics to monitor for and identify emerging resistance to specific toxins early, well before it becomes a widespread problem. The work will enable farmers to mitigate resistance and prolong the effectiveness of pest management tools.
	Artificial streams reveal how drought shapes California's alpine ecosystems A network of artificial streams is teaching scientists how California's mountain waterways—and the ecosystems that depend on them—may be impacted by a warmer, drier climate.
	How DHX9 stress granules protect daughter cells from UV-induced RNA damage During the process of cell division, new daughter cells inherit a mix of genetic material and other molecules from their mother cells. This inheritance includes both beneficial components, which can help them for a robust start in life, and potentially harmful mutations or damaged molecules, posing significant challenges for the newly born daughter cells.
	Global wildlife study during COVID-19 shows rural animals are more sensitive to human activity One of the largest studies on wildlife activity—involving more than 220 researchers, 163 mammal species and 5,000 camera traps worldwide—reveals that wild animals react differently to humans depending on where the animals live and what they eat. The study was published in Nature Ecology & Evolution.
	Newly identified yeast could prevent fungal infections by outcompeting rivals, study suggests Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel have identified a yeast that could be used to prevent invasive candidiasis, a major cause of death in hospitalized and immunocompromised patients. The study, published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine, shows that the novel yeast lives harmlessly in the intestines of mice and humans and can displace the yeast responsible for candidiasis, Candida albicans.
	Illuminating a critical step in initiating DNA replication in eukaryotes Brandt Eichman and Walter Chazin, professors of biochemistry, have worked together to provide a better understanding of how exactly DNA replication is initiated in eukaryotes. Using Vanderbilt's state-of-the-art instrumentation in the Center for Structural Biology's Cryo-Electron Microscopy Facility, Eichman, Chazin, and their colleagues provided detailed visualizations of a multi-functional protein in action, which sheds light on how DNA replication is initiated in humans.
	Scientists publish novel research on how individual cells respond to viral infection A team of scientists from Montana State University recently published unique research examining how individual cells respond to viral infection. The work used state-of-the-art technology to culture cells and track infection in real time; it is the first known project to use microfluidic technology to culture, infect and track infection on a single-cell level.
	New discovery highlights a potential stepping stone toward antibiotic resistance A new study shows how heteroresistance, a transient resistance common in many bacteria, can act as a precursor to the development of antibiotic resistance. According to researchers at Uppsala University, this is the first time this link has been demonstrated.
	Study shows how surface curvature drives cell migration The curvature of a surface determines the migration behavior of biological cells. They preferentially move along valleys or grooves while avoiding ridges. These findings, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences with contribution from the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization (MPI-DS) and the Weizmann Institute of Science, give rise to a model predicting cellular behavior. Such universal principles now allow a better understanding of the migration of immune and cancer cells, paving the way for new treatment options.
	Sequencing the blue whale and Etruscan shrew genomes The blue whale genome was published in the journal Molecular Biology and Evolution, and the Etruscan shrew genome was published in the journal Scientific Data.
	Tropical plants beat drought by interacting with specific microbes, study shows Plant-soil-microbe interactions play a crucial role in processes that take place in the soil directly around plant roots, or the rhizosphere, and these processes contribute to nutrient cycling and metabolite turnover in the environment. Amid the water scarcity that occurs with climate change, plants are forced to adapt through a range of processes that impact soil organic matter turnover in the rhizosphere.
	Engineers manage a first: Measuring pH in cell condensates Scientists trying to understand the physical and chemical properties that govern biomolecular condensates now have a crucial way to measure pH and other emergent properties of these enigmatic, albeit important, cellular compartments.
	New study uncovers how hydrogen provided energy at life's origin Hydrogen gas is a clean fuel. It burns with oxygen in the air to provide energy with no CO2. Hydrogen is a key to sustainable energy for the future. Though humans are just now coming to realize the benefits of hydrogen gas (H2 in chemical shorthand), microbes have known that H2 is a good fuel for as long as there has been life on Earth. Hydrogen is ancient energy.
	Genetic basis for the evolution of hair discovered in the clawed frog The development of hair was of central importance for the evolution of mammals and, thus, also of humans. However, the evolutionary origin of the genetic program of hair was previously unknown. An international research team led by Leopold Eckhart from MedUni Vienna has now been able to show that important hair components and their genetic control have already evolved in amphibians.
	Scientists discover how the Diadem butterfly mimics the African Queen Scientists have discovered how female Diadem butterflies have evolved to look like African Queen butterflies to repel predators.
	Eyes open and toes out of water: How a giant water bug reached the island of Cyprus The island of Cyprus, although considered a hotspot for biodiversity in the Mediterranean, is more famous for its beautiful sunny coasts than for its insect fauna. Nevertheless, some visitors of its highly populated beaches, with their observations and curiosity, have provided important information for a species never recorded before on the island: a giant water bug, also known as a toe biter.
	Tanks of the triassic: New crocodile ancestor identified Dinosaurs get all the glory. But aetosaurs, a heavily armored cousin of modern crocodiles, ruled the world before dinosaurs did. These tanks of the Triassic came in a variety of shapes and sizes before going extinct around 200 million years ago. Today, their fossils are found on every continent except Antarctica and Australia.
	Climate change alters the hidden microbial food web in peatlands, study shows The humble peat bog conjures images of a brown, soggy expanse. But it turns out to have a superpower in the fight against climate change.
	Adagio in sea: Coral larvae 'settle near sounds of healthy reefs' Audio recordings of healthy reefs—an underwater chorus of fish songs and crackles from snapping shrimp—may help efforts to restore coral ecosystems harmed by climate and human impacts, scientists said Wednesday.
	Whale menopause sheds light on human evolutionary mystery Why do humans experience menopause? It's a question that some women going through the symptoms might have asked themselves more than once.
	Animal hair structure changes from summer to winter to fend off freezing weather, researchers show Unique adaptations allow wild animals to survive temperature extremes that would quickly kill an unprotected human. For example, certain animals can withstand bitterly cold weather, thanks to the insulating properties of the hollow hairs that make up their coats.
	City mouse or country mouse? Biologist collects mice from homes to study how they got so good at urban living Dusty barns, gleaming stables and damp basements. These are all places where you might find a house mouse—or a member of my research team.
	Multiple processes shape plant ecological uniqueness in Northeast China's forests In a study published in Journal of Biogeography, scientists from the Institute of Applied Ecology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences have shed light on understanding the driving mechanisms of the uniqueness of plant species composition in different life forms.
	Darwin's Galapagos island species, protected yet still at risk Industrial fishing boats hover menacingly on the edges of Ecuador's Galapagos Marine Reserve, where schools of multicolored fish and hammerhead sharks frolic in the protected Pacific waters.
	Pesticide-free as a new pathway for agriculture A new approach is gaining momentum in European agriculture: a "third way" that lies between conventional production and organic farming systems. Here farmers must forego synthetic pesticides only—which is simpler to implement than a switch to organic farming.
	'Atypical' gathering of 'rare' deep-sea predators spotted for first time in Panama Deep underwater, a group of elusive predators gathered off the coast of Panama. The gathering was "atypical" and a first of its kind for the area.
	Illinois will soon be cicada central when two broods converge on state in historic emergence When his youngest daughter was born early in the summer of 2004 in Washington, D.C., John Lill and his wife could hear cicadas singing from inside the hospital.
	Good news for gray whales: 'Unusual mortality event' declared over It was a worrisome few years for North Pacific gray whales, with hundreds washing up dead on shorelines along the West Coast leading to an estimated 30% decline in their population.
	A new lexicon in the age of microbiome research Over the past 20 years, life science research has come to realize that all living beings—from the simplest animal and plant organisms to humans—live in close association with a large number of microorganisms. Together with the multicellular host organism, these symbiotic bacteria, viruses and fungi, which colonize on and in their tissues and form the so-called microbiome, constitute a primarily beneficial community in the form of a metaorganism.
	Elephant calves have been found buried. What does that mean? The myth of elephant graveyards has pervaded popular culture, and recent observations of buried Asian elephant calves may finally give that legend some credence.
	Snakebites: We thought we'd created a winning new antivenom but then it flopped. Why that turned out to be a good thing Snakebites kill over 100,000 people each year, and hundreds of thousands of survivors are left with long-term disabilities such as amputations.
	Despite protection urban hawks still face an array of threats Life can be hard for a raptor. If you're a teenager from the city, it's even harder. That's according to a new study published in the Journal of Raptor.
	Computer model helps grape growers adapt to shorter winters As the climate changes, winter is shortening, causing vines and trees to bud earlier in the year, thereby increasing the chances they will be exposed to spring cold snaps and frost that can be hazardous to yields.
	Harnessing AI and advanced imaging for precision plant stress management Plant phenotyping is key to improving crop production, especially as global food demands rise. Recent advances in AI and imaging sensor technologies offer promising methods for early and accurate plant stress detection, overcoming the limitations of traditional visual inspections.
	Harnessing hyperspectral imaging and machine learning for rubber tree nutrient management Rubber trees are essential for natural rubber, and require precise nutrient management. Traditional methods for assessing nutrient levels are expensive and destructive, but near-infrared (NIR) hyperspectral techniques offer a promising nondestructive alternative. Challenges arise with high-dimensional data, leading to biased results from small and imbalanced datasets. Current research focuses on overcoming these limitations using machine learning and radiative transfer models.
	Advancing precision agriculture: GANs for high-fidelity synthetic weed identification Meeting the growing food demand is a significant challenge, exacerbated by weed-induced crop production constraints. Conventional weed management methods, such as herbicides, have inadvertently fostered the emergence of resistant species, underscoring the imperative for precision agriculture approaches like site-specific weed management (SSWM). However, the success of SSWM, particularly when leveraging deep learning for weed identification, is hindered by limited, high-quality training data.
	Advancements in greenhouse spike detection with deep learning for enhanced phenotypic trait analysis Accurate extraction of phenotypic traits from image data is essential for cereal crop research, but spike detection in greenhouses is challenging due to the environmental and physical similarities between spikes and leaves. Recent efforts include increasing image resolution and feature dimensionality, and developing neural networks such as SpikeSegNet to improve spike detection. However, these methods struggle to accurately localize small spikes,and further advances in neural network tuning and novel detection models are needed to efficiently overcome these spike detection challenges.
	Rapid study of Kakhovka Dam breach impacts will support biodiversity's recovery UK scientists' unprecedented rapid assessment of the environmental impacts of the Kakhovka Dam's breach will support international action to restore a biodiversity hotspot.
	System detects microorganisms that mar the quality of beer With the aid of molecular biology, the quality of Brazilian beer—the country's most popular alcoholic beverage, especially during the summer—may soon be significantly enhanced.
	Magpies under siege from climate and man-made noise The combined impact of climate change and human-generated noise are proving double trouble for wild urban-dwelling bird species, changing their behavior in ways that could threaten their survival.
	Urban greening can lead to an increase of rodent-borne zoonotic pathogens Wild rodents can host a great diversity of zoonotic pathogens. Rodents that live close to humans increase the likelihood of the transfer of such pathogens. "Changes in the environment, such as urban greening, can increase the presence of rodents and result in a higher human disease risk in urban areas," states Marieke de Cock based on her research. She successfully defended her Ph.D. from Wageningen University & Research on March 15, 2024.
	Cacao plants' defense against toxic cadmium unveiled Researchers from the University Grenoble Alpes (UGA), France, together with the ESRF, the European Synchrotron located in Grenoble, France, used ESRF's bright X-rays to unveil how cacao trees protect themselves from toxic metal cadmium. This knowledge is relevant as new EU regulations restrict cadmium concentration in chocolate. Their results are published in Environmental and Experimental Botany.
	Acclaimed primatologist Frans de Waal dies at 75: Emory Primatologist Frans de Waal, whose study of chimpanzees and apes helped reveal the reconciliatory and empathic nature of primates—including humans—has died at age 75, said the university where he worked for decades.
	Vietnam faces $3bn annual crop losses from rising saltwater levels Vietnam faces nearly $3 billion a year in crop losses as more saltwater seeps into arable land, state media reported Sunday, citing new research.
	Enhancing rapeseed maturity classification with hyperspectral imaging and machine learning Rapeseed oil, a vital oilseed crop facing growing global demand, encounters a significant challenge in achieving uniform seed maturity, owing to asynchronous flowering. Traditional maturity assessment methods are limited by their destructive nature. Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) offers a non-destructive, efficient solution by using spatial and spectral data to accurately classify crop maturity. This advancement in HSI technology presents an opportunity to enhance rapeseed quality and breeding research, addressing the need for more effective maturity classification methods.
	Can used coffee grounds help clean up environmental toxins? Global coffee consumption generates millions of tons of spent coffee grounds each year, which can be damaging to wildlife and the environment.

Medicine and Health news

	Brazilian single-dose dengue vaccine could help turn tide in the fight against fever Dengue, caused by the virus transmitted by the bite of the female Aedes aegypti mosquito and, to a lesser extent, the Aedes albopictus mosquito, is an acute illness characterized mainly by high fever, body aches, and redness of the skin.
	Weight loss caused by common diabetes drug tied to 'anti-hunger' molecule in study An "anti-hunger" molecule produced after vigorous exercise is responsible for the moderate weight loss caused by the diabetes medication metformin, according to a new study in mice and humans. The molecule, lac-phe, was discovered by Stanford Medicine researchers in 2022.
	Study shows glucose levels affect cognitive performance in people with type 1 diabetes differently A new study led by researchers at McLean Hospital (a member of Mass General Brigham) and Washington State University used advances in digital testing to demonstrate that naturally occurring glucose fluctuations impact cognitive function in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D).
	Scientists' discovery could reduce dependence on animals for vital anticoagulant drug Heparin, the world's most widely used blood thinner, is used during procedures ranging from kidney dialysis to open heart surgery. Currently, heparin is derived from pig intestines, but scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) have discovered how to make it in the lab. They have also developed a path to a biomanufacturing process that could potentially revolutionize how the world gets its supply of this crucial medicine.
	Studies find severe symptoms of Havana Syndrome, but no evidence of brain injury or biological abnormalities Using advanced imaging techniques and in-depth clinical assessments, a research team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found no significant evidence of MRI-detectable brain injury, nor differences in most clinical measures compared to controls, among a group of federal employees who experienced anomalous health incidents (AHIs).
	Bacteria commonly found in the body contribute to stomach cancer, finds study A new study has discovered that a type of bacteria commonly found in the body, which usually does not pose problems for healthy people, plays a significant role in causing stomach cancer, the fifth most common cancer in the world. The findings are published in the journal Cell.
	Clinical trial shows subcutaneous infusion pump safe, effective for Parkinson's treatment An international, multisite Phase III trial, co-led by a University of Cincinnati researcher, has found that a Parkinson's disease medication delivered through an infusion pump is safe and effective at reducing symptoms for longer periods of time.
	Implantable sensor could lead to timelier Crohn's treatment A team of Northwestern University scientists has developed the first wireless, implantable temperature sensor to detect inflammatory flareups in patients with Crohn's disease. The approach offers long-term, real-time monitoring and could enable clinicians to act earlier to prevent or limit the permanent damage caused by inflammatory episodes.
	Black individuals with a genetic mutation found to have increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation, heart failure Physician–scientists from the University of Alabama at Birmingham Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine led a nationwide genetic study examining the role of genetic mutations in the Titin, TTN, gene in Black individuals. In their study, published in Nature Cardiovascular Research they found that Black individuals carrying these genetic variants were at a high risk of developing atrial fibrillation and heart failure.
	Intermittent food intake activates a 'GPS gene' in liver cells, thus completing the development of the liver after birth In mammals, the liver detects the body's energy demand at any given moment and mobilizes nutrient reserves to meet it. It is a vital function that is subdivided into multiple tasks: from releasing glucose into the blood when the hormone insulin alerts about a need for energy, to synthesizing essential fats or proteins. These tasks fall to the hepatic cells, the hepatocytes, which take care of one or the other depending on their spatial position in the liver.
	Efforts to limit fast food near homes need rethinking, researcher says Amid an obesity epidemic in the United States, you may have heard of efforts to eliminate "food deserts," or areas with few healthy food options, and limit fast-food chains near where people live.
	A new approach to treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are neurodegenerative diseases that commonly occur in middle-aged people. FTD is second only to Alzheimer's disease in terms of dementia prevalence. Both ALS and FTD arise from neuronal degeneration through mechanisms that remain unclear.
	Scientists reveal chemical structural analysis in neural computations that allow us to identify odors Scents, such as coffee, flowers, or freshly baked pumpkin pie, are created by odor molecules released by various substances and detected by our noses. In essence, we are smelling molecules, the basic unit of a substance that retains its physical and chemical properties.
	Eating, socializing or exploring: How the brain switches between different behaviors How does our brain switch between different behaviors? A new study has now provided the first answers to this key question in neuroscience. Using mice, the researchers investigated electrical activity in a certain area within the brain. Results were then analyzed with the help of an adaptive computer algorithm. This artificial intelligence identified a type of typical fingerprint in the signals.
	Do you have an ear for languages? It may be related to how you perceive the rhythms A test that shows how good or bad we are at perceiving the rhythm of language can predict the ability to acquire language. The test results may also help us understand individual differences in brain biology.
	AI recognizes clinically anxious youth based on their brain structure A unique multicenter study, including about 3,500 youth between 10 and 25 years old from across the globe, shows that artificial intelligence—specifically machine learning—is able to identify individuals with anxiety disorders based on their unique brain structure.
	Newly discovered link between FBXW7 mutations and EGFR signaling in colorectal cancer The Organoid group at the Hubrecht Institute has identified a new link between FBXW7 mutations and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling activity. The FBXW7 gene is commonly mutated in colorectal cancer and such mutations have been associated with worse treatment outcomes. The researchers used colon organoids and the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technique to investigate the consequences of multiple common FBXW7 mutations.
	Identification of molecule involved in fear extinction could lead to new therapies for anxiety Researchers have identified a new mediator responsible for altering fear memories. This discovery could contribute to the creation of new and more effective therapies for the treatment of anxiety disorders, one of the most prevalent health conditions worldwide.
	Scientists map the evolution of urinary tract cancer cells Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have performed the most comprehensive analysis to date of cancer of the ureters or the urine-collection cavities in the kidney, known as upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). The study, which compared the characteristics of primary and metastatic tumors, provides new insights into the biology of these aggressive cancers and potential ways to treat them.
	Study estimates nearly 70% of children under six in Chicago may be exposed to lead-contaminated tap water A new analysis led by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health estimates that 68 percent of Chicago children under age six live in households with tap water containing detectable levels of lead.
	Study shows that 'transcendent' thinking may grow teens' brains over time Scientists at the USC Rossier School of Education's Center for Affective Neuroscience, Development, Learning, and Education (CANDLE) have shown for the first time that a type of thinking that has been described for over a century as a developmental milestone of adolescence may grow teenagers' brains over time.
	Addressing both flu and COVID-19 through a single, multitasking injection In preparation for the winter season last year, the Korean Medical Association recommended that people with compromised immune systems receive both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines simultaneously. The prospect of receiving shots in both arms may have been a shock, especially for children. However, there is now exciting news about a multitasking substance capable of preventing and treating both flu and COVID-19 infections concurrently, and it is gaining momentum.
	Researchers use algorithm to provide innovative insights into the heterogeneity of type 2 diabetes A landmark study by the German Diabetes Center (DDZ), published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, sheds new light on the heterogeneity of type 2 diabetes. The researchers have employed an innovative algorithm to stratify people with type 2 diabetes using routine data and thus visualize the metabolic diversity of diabetes.
	Team develops fluid biomarker for early detection of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia Two progressively degenerative diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD, recently in the news with the diagnoses of actor Bruce Willis and talk show host Wendy Williams), are linked by more than the fact that they both damage nerve cells critical to normal functioning—the former affecting nerves in the brain and spinal cord leading to loss of movement, the latter eroding the brain regions controlling personality, behavior and language.
	Researchers pinpoint issue that could be hampering common chemotherapy drug Researchers at the University of Toronto's Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research have found two enzymes that work against the chemotherapy drug gemcitabine, preventing it from effectively treating pancreatic cancer.
	A new study shows how neurochemicals affect fMRI readings The brain is an incredibly complex and active organ that uses electricity and chemicals to transmit and receive signals between its sub-regions.
	Shortage of primary care doctors could bring crowded ERs: Study Americans living in areas where primary care doctors and nurse practitioners are in short supply face a greater risk for emergency surgeries and complications, new research shows.
	A blood test for colon cancer performed well in a study, expanding options for screening A blood test for colon cancer performed well in a study published Wednesday, offering a new kind of screening for a leading cause of cancer deaths.
	Very low calorie diets safe for teens with obesity when monitored by a dietitian, say researchers Short-term very low calorie diets are safe for teenagers living with moderate to severe obesity when closely monitored by an experienced dietitian, says new research to be presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO 2024).
	Less is more: Research finds not placing a drain improves distal pancreatectomy outcomes Research led by Amsterdam UMC across 10 Dutch hospitals and two Italian hospitals has found that not placing a drain during surgery improves outcomes in patients undergoing a left-sided pancreatic resection, also known as "distal pancreatectomy."
	CDC says people ages 65 and up should get a COVID shot this spring: A geriatrician explains In my mind, the spring season will always be associated with COVID-19.
	Ghostbots: AI versions of deceased loved ones could be a serious threat to mental health We all experience loss and grief. Imagine, though, that you don't need to say goodbye to your loved ones, that you can recreate them virtually so you can have conversations and find out how they're feeling.
	Proteins in milk and blood could one day let doctors detect breast cancer earlier, and save lives Doctors may someday be able to use bodily fluids to noninvasively detect breast cancer in patients earlier than is possible now.
	8-hour time-restricted eating linked to a 91% higher risk of cardiovascular death An analysis of over 20,000 U.S. adults found that people who limited their eating to less than 8 hours per day, a time-restricted eating plan, were more likely to die from cardiovascular disease compared to people who ate across 12-16 hours per day, according to preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology and Prevention│Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Scientific Sessions 2024, March 18- 21, in Chicago. The meeting offers the latest science on population-based health and wellness and implications for lifestyle.
	Pacemaker powered by light eliminates need for batteries and allows the heart to function more naturally—new research By harnessing light, my colleagues and I designed a wireless, ultrathin pacemaker that operates like a solar panel. This design not only eliminates the need for batteries but also minimizes disruptions to the heart's natural function by molding to its contours. Our research, recently published in the journal Nature, offers a new approach to treatments that require electrical stimulation, such as heart pacing.
	Q&A: How meth became an epidemic in America, and what's happening now that it's faded from the headlines Rural America has long suffered from an epidemic of methamphetamine use, which accounts for thousands of drug overdoses and deaths every year.
	Researchers call for greater investment in bereavement care The public health toll from bereavement is well-documented in the medical literature, with bereaved persons at greater risk for many adverse outcomes, including mental health challenges, decreased quality of life, health care neglect, cancer, heart disease, suicide, and death. Now, in a paper published in The Lancet Public Health, researchers sound a clarion call for greater investment, at both the community and institutional level, in establishing support for grief-related suffering.
	Some lymphomas become resistant to treatment. Gene discovery may offer path to overcome it. Patients with some types of lymphoma that become resistant to standard treatments may benefit from a therapy that University of Wisconsin–Madison researchers are evaluating after they discovered a key process that fuels the blood cancers' resistance to current drugs. Here are the details:
	How genetic therapies transformed the lives of sickle cell patients Their stories are divided into before and after. First, those long years of pain which flooded every moment—school, relationships, work.
	Mimicking exercise with a pill Doctors have long prescribed exercise to improve and protect health. In the future, a pill may offer some of the same benefits as exercise. Now, researchers report on new compounds that appear capable of mimicking the physical boost of working out—at least within rodent cells. This discovery could lead to a new way to treat muscle atrophy and other medical conditions in people, including heart failure and neurodegenerative disease.
	Study finds middle-aged Americans are lonelier than European counterparts Middle-aged adults in the U.S. tend to report significantly higher levels of loneliness than their European counterparts, possibly due in part to weaker family ties and greater income inequality, according to research published in the journal American Psychologist.
	How the anti-vaccine movement pits parental rights against public health Gayle Borne has fostered more than 300 children in Springfield, Tennessee. She's cared for kids who have rarely seen a doctor—kids so neglected that they cannot speak. Such children are now even more vulnerable because of a law Tennessee passed last year that requires the direct consent of birth parents or legal guardians for every routine childhood vaccination. Foster parents, social workers, and other caregivers cannot provide permission.
	COVID-19 took a mental health toll on mothers, young women and adolescent girls, researchers find Two recent studies show that the non-pharmaceutical public health measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with increased mental health visits for mothers with young children, young women and adolescent girls.
	Study eases concern at antipsychotics use in pregnancy Antipsychotics—a branch of medication designed to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder—are important tools for mental health care management. They work by blocking the effect of dopamine, which can help reduce psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions.
	Mutations do not predict the severity of current variants of SARS-CoV-2, finds study New research from UNC Charlotte's Center for Computational Intelligence to Predict Health and Environmental Risks (CIPHER) has found that the two most prevalent strains of the virus that cause COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 variants BA.2.86 and JN.1, are not significantly better than their predecessor omicron at evading immune responses and causing infections despite having a high number of mutations compared to previous variants.
	Antibiotic dosing technology speeds recovery of ICU patients, study finds University of Queensland researchers have used dosing software to accelerate the effects of antibiotics in patients being treated for sepsis in Intensive Care Units.
	Newborn piglets serve as a model for studying influenza Although prevention and treatment strategies are available for influenza, they are not sufficient for vulnerable populations such as young children and newborns. In a new study published in Virology, a multidisciplinary team of researchers has studied newborn piglets to understand the progression of influenza infections better.
	Optimizing tissue engineering in rotator cuff repair Retear and failure to heal are significant post-operative complications in rotator cuff repair surgery despite the use of commercially available rotator cuff repair grafts. Advances in tissue engineering have demonstrated that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and growth factors (GFs) enhance the regeneration of rotator cuff tendon-to-bone insertion in animal models, as described in an article published in the journal Tissue Engineering Part B: Reviews.
	Shift work may have impact on out of sync breast milk hormone The bond between a mother and infant may be stronger than first thought, a La Trobe University study has found. The research is published in the journal Breastfeeding Medicine.
	Online wellness content: Three ways to tell evidence-based health information from pseudoscience "I drink borax!" proclaims the smiling TikToker. Holding up a box of the laundry additive, she rhymes off a list of its supposed health benefits: "Balances testosterone and estrogen. It's a powerhouse anti-inflammatory…. It's amazing for arthritis, osteoporosis…. And obviously it's great for your gut health."
	Why is toddler milk so popular? Follow the money Toddler milk is popular and becoming more so. Just over a third of Australian toddlers drink it. Parents spend hundreds of millions of dollars on it globally. Around the world, toddler milk makes up nearly half of total formula milk sales, with a 200% growth since 2005. Growth is expected to continue.
	Gut microbiome: Meet Roseburia intestinalis—the energy-producing bacterium that helps us fight against disease The hundreds of species of microorganisms that comprise the microbiome all have different, unique roles.
	Tapeworm larvae found in man's brain—how did they get there? We have all found ourselves in a place we would rather not be, a school reunion, the never-ending work meeting or a distant relative's wedding reception. In such situations, it is often a good option to make the best of it. Well, this isn't just the case for people, it is also an occurrence in the world of parasites—those lifeforms that live in and on us. This was the case for Taenia solium, or pig tapeworm which found itself in an unlikely place.
	Researcher: Almost 50% of adult South Africans are overweight or obese. Poverty and poor nutrition are largely to blame Malnutrition, in all its forms, includes undernutrition (wasting, stunting, underweight), inadequate vitamins or minerals, overweight and obesity.
	Difficult teens can benefit from sport A new study has found that high levels of physical activity in early adolescence can reduce depressive symptoms in young people who have difficult temperaments, come from low-income families or are exposed to family dysfunction.
	Decoding sleep to reveal our state of health Sleep takes up almost one third of our life, yet many of its secrets remain unexplained. To penetrate the mystery, neuroscientists are trying to decipher some of the mechanisms of this basic biological function, so key to good health.
	Creating a remote sensor to detect health troubles A Cornell doctoral student is building a company based on a radio-based technology that could sense cardiac and respiratory troubles for patients without the need for them to wear a bulky monitor or skin electrodes. SensVita, developed by electrical engineer Thomas Conroy, uses near-field radio frequency sensing.
	Stem cell 'messages' fast-track healing of diabetic wounds The increasing prevalence of diabetes worldwide has led to a rise in diabetic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, which are challenging to treat and can result in amputation. Traditional treatments have limited effectiveness, underscoring the urgent need for innovative solutions.
	Can over-the-counter cold medicine treat COVID-19? Research by Cardiff University shows that over-the-counter cold and flu treatments are safe and effective for managing mild COVID-19 symptoms at home and could help alleviate the burden on hospitals during high incidence of the illness in the population.
	A blood test could help identify those at highest risk of dying from heart failure, study finds A blood test could help identify those at highest risk of dying from heart failure, new research has found. The study found that patients with highest levels of a protein called neuropeptide Y (NPY) were 50% more likely to die from a heart complication over the three years that the research was conducted, compared to those with lower levels.
	COVID-19 pandemic could have led to 20,000 prostate cancer diagnosis being missed Prostate cancer diagnoses in 20,000 men could have been missed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, finds a new study published in BJU International from the University of Surrey and the University of Oxford.
	Trials shows bimekizumab response durable at four years for moderate-to-severe psoriasis Patients with psoriasis treated with bimekizumab rapidly achieve high levels of clinical and health-related quality-of-life responses that are durable at four years, according to research presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, held from March 8 to 12 in San Diego.
	Study finds adult acne clinic visits increase with exposure to wildfire-related air pollution Short-term exposure to wildfire-related air pollution is associated with an increase in clinic visits for acne vulgaris among adults, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, held from March 8 to 12 in San Diego.
	Study finds coping behaviors improved mental well-being in adversity-exposed teens during pandemic In-person schooling and coping behaviors were associated with higher positive affect (PA) during the COVID-19 pandemic among adolescents with high adverse childhood experiences (ACEs; at least four), according to a study published online March 13 in JAMA Network Open.
	Single mindfulness and compassion session found to aid mental health A single-session mindfulness and compassion intervention may lead to meaningful reductions in perceived stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression, according to a study published online in PLOS ONE.
	Measles outbreaks have CDC tweaking travel guidelines As millions of Americans prepare to travel abroad this summer and measles outbreaks increase worldwide, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has tightened its guidance on how travelers should handle the potential health threat.
	Household foods get less healthy as babies age into toddlers Over the first few years of a child's life, foods found in a family's fridge and cupboards tends to get less healthy, new research shows.
	Fight health misinformation by influencing the influencers Public health institutions are facing the challenge of a lifetime as social media breeds misinformation and disinformation about everything from COVID vaccines to climate change. Now, a creative program at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is trying to flip the script by influencing the influencers on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. Given the monumental task, we need more experiments like this.
	Class of Alzheimer's drug presents unique challenge for patients with cardiovascular disease A new Viewpoint article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), titled " Use of Lecanemab for Patients with Cardiovascular Disease—The Challenge of Uncertainty," advocates for additional research to improve decision making prior to initiating lecanemab, commercially known as Leqembi, an FDA-approved Alzheimer's Disease drug.
	Attacking metastatic prostate cancer early with combination treatment approach improves outcomes in preliminary study A team of UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center investigators has shown the combination of a short course of powerful and intense hormonal therapy with targeted radiation is safe and effective in treating people with prostate cancer that has come back and has spread to other parts of the body.
	Elon Musk's brain implant company offers an intriguing glimpse of an internet connecting human minds Elon Musk's company called Neuralink, launched in 2016, aims to implant a piece of technology in people's brains that would allow them to control a computer or phone by thought alone. This is otherwise known as a brain-computer interface.
	Keeping score: Novel method might help differentiate two serious skin diseases Your skin becomes red and spots filled with pus appear, so you visit a dermatologist. When these symptoms spread to the skin throughout the body, it is difficult for the physician to distinguish whether it is generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) or acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), as both have similar symptoms. The two diseases run different courses and require different treatments. Without proper treatment, the symptoms can worsen severely and cause complications, so it is essential to distinguish between them.
	New strategy to facilitate muscle regeneration after injury Muscle injuries are common in the active population, and they cause the majority of player retirements in the world of sports. Depending on the severity, recovery of muscle function is quite slow and may require surgery, medication and rehabilitation. Now, a study led by the University of Barcelona reveals a strategy to improve and accelerate recovery from muscle injuries that has potential application in the sports and health sectors.
	Inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation points to new potential treatment for an intractable genetic disease A research team led by CiRA Professor Junya Toguchida in collaboration with Assistant Professor Yonghui Jin and graduated student Liping Sun at the Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, has identified a promising therapeutic target for an intractable genetic disease, fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP).
	Breathe, don't vent: Turning down the heat is key to managing anger, study suggests Venting about a source of anger might feel good in the moment, but it's not effective at reducing the rage, new research suggests.
	Researchers report rise in global fungal drug-resistant infections A global wave of infections caused by fungi growing drug-resistant has the medical community issuing precautions on how to protect yourself.
	Metformin during pregnancy impacts offspring brain development, finds study With the rise in gestational diabetes and metabolic disorders during pregnancy, metformin is also being prescribed more frequently. Although it is known that the oral antidiabetic agent can cross the placental barrier, the impacts on the brain development of the child are largely unknown.
	Laws that punish drug use during pregnancy likely lead to worse health outcomes for families: Study Contrary to some claims, laws that criminalize or otherwise punish drug use during pregnancy are more likely to worsen rather than improve health outcomes, according to a paper by researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. The study is the first to systematically review the literature on punitive prenatal drug laws—an increasingly common state policy strategy for addressing rising rates of prenatal drug use. The findings are published in the International Journal on Drug Policy.
	AI tools and parent support could be keys to unlock perfectionism The quest to find ideal therapy for perfectionism, a condition showing alarming growth among very young people, has moved online—with researchers believing that artificial intelligence (AI) tools could provide a better, more convenient solution, as well as harnessing parent delivery of interventions.
	Team reports progress in developing specific immunotherapies for type 1 diabetes Researchers from Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP) and Ahead Therapeutics SL have been exploring a treatment based on liposome-type nanoparticles to address the autoimmunity of type 1 diabetes for years. A study recently published in the Journal of Autoimmunity examines the response of macrophages to this immunotherapy, serving as a preliminary step before clinical trials.
	Peer-coaching helps socially marginalized individuals lower blood pressure, finds study According to a new study led by investigators at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, for younger Black patients living in rural parts of the Southeastern United States, peer coaching is more effective than traditional clinical care in controlling high blood pressure.
	One million adults smoke menthol-flavored cigarettes in Britain despite ban: Study One in seven adults who smoke in Great Britain report using menthol-flavored cigarettes despite UK legislation that aimed to curb their use, according to a new study by UCL (University College London) researchers.
	Overeating and starving both damage the liver: Cavefish provide new insight into fatty liver disease Fatty liver, which can lead to liver damage and disease, can occur from both overeating and starvation. Now, new research shows how naturally starvation-resistant cavefish, unlike other animals, are able to protect their liver and remain healthy. The findings have implications for understanding and potentially addressing liver conditions in humans.
	Transcriptomic analysis of rat brain response to alternating current electrical stimulation A new study appearing in MedComm has been led by Dr. Qian Liu and Dr. Yan Wang (Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences). The team presents the initial single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) profiles of rat cortex, hippocampus, and thalamus subjected to intracranial alternating current stimulation (iACS) at 40 Hz.
	Five factors to ensure an infant thrives There are basic resources every baby needs for the best possible chance to develop as healthy well-functioning human.
	Study examines prevalence of birth defects following direct potable reuse water system implementation Direct potable reuse (DPR) water systems add purified wastewater directly to a water distribution system, instead of first passing water through an environmental buffer such as a lake or reservoir. These systems are being considered in some water-stressed regions across the U.S. to address water shortages. However, little is known about the health outcomes of people who receive DPR drinking water.
	Shining a light on the genetic underpinnings of a rare disease impacting children A team from the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Medicine has completed a new study that reveals the inner workings of gene mutations that result in an ultra-rare syndrome with fewer than 100 reported cases since its first description in the early 1960s.
	New test shows promise for diagnosing and managing portal hypertension Portal hypertension (PHT) is a severe complication of chronic liver disease, like cirrhosis, where increased pressure builds up in the portal vein. This major blood vessel drains blood from the intestines, spleen, and stomach to the liver. This can lead to life-threatening complications such as internal bleeding and liver failure.
	Promoting diabetic wound healing using microneedles The global population of patients with diabetic wounds is expected to rise to between 9.1 million and 26.1 million by 2030. Diabetic wounds severely impact patients' quality of life, both physically and mentally, while also imposing a substantial economic burden on health care systems.
	Industrial societies losing healthy gut microbes, finds study Everyone knows that fiber is healthy and an important part of our daily diet. But what is fiber, and why is it healthy? Fiber is cellulose, the stringy stuff that plants are made of. Leaves, stems, roots, stalks, and tree trunks (wood) are made of cellulose. The purest form of cellulose is the long, white fibers of cotton. Dietary fiber comes from vegetables or whole grain products.
	Repurposed drug shows promise against endometriosis-related pain in animal model Fenoprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), successfully alleviated pain and inflammation in a rodent model of endometriosis, according to researchers. They chose the drug after using a computer algorithm to evaluate nearly 1,300 existing compounds for their ability to reverse gene expression related to endometriosis disease.
	New AI tool predicts COVID-19 vaccine uptake Findings of a new study led by researchers at Northwestern University and the University of Cincinnati could help public health officials lead more effective vaccination campaigns that overcome hesitancy.
	Deciphering the role of bitter and astringent polyphenols in promoting well-being Polyphenols are powerful plant metabolites known for their antioxidant properties, offering potential health benefits and protection against various diseases. With over 8,000 identified varieties, these substances are found in plentiful amounts in various fruits, vegetables, tea, and coffee. Besides adding color and flavor to foods, polyphenols play a crucial role in promoting health and overall well-being.
	New study reveals insights into COVID-19 antibody response durability Researchers at the Institute of Human Virology (IHV) at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have published a new study in the Journal of Infectious Diseases investigating the antibody response following SARS-CoV-2 infection.
	Role in mitochondrial metabolism paints more complete picture of MCL-1 function The life and death of cells are governed by processes that—when disrupted—can lead to cancer. Apoptosis, the process of programmed cell death, is tightly regulated by the B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) family of proteins. This includes myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1), an anti-apoptotic protein that helps cells stay alive.
	Researchers find branched chain amino acid supplementation may aid in concussion recovery In the first clinical trial of a targeted pharmacologic therapeutic for mild traumatic brain injury in pediatric patients, scientists from the Minds Matter Concussion Frontier Program at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) have found preliminary evidence that adolescents and young adults with concussion who take a specific formulation of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) supplements after injury experience faster symptom reduction and return to physical activity.
	Researchers find unanticipated complexity in aging brain's memory decline Researchers from The University of Texas at Dallas Center for Vital Longevity (CVL) have discovered that brain correlates of age-related memory decline are more complicated than previously believed, a finding that could affect efforts to preserve cognitive health in older people.
	Kallistatin found to contribute to the beneficial metabolic effects of weight loss After weight loss, people who are overweight and obese express more of the protein Kallistatin* in subcutaneous white adipose tissue. This was demonstrated by researchers from the DZD in a recent study. In addition, Kallistatin improves metabolism and could open up new therapeutic options for people with obesity and type 2 diabetes in the future. The results have now been published in Molecular Metabolism.
	Text nudges can increase uptake of COVID-19 boosters—if they play up a sense of ownership of the vaccine New research published in Nature Human Behavior suggests that text nudges encouraging people to get the COVID-19 vaccine, which had proven effective in prior real-world field tests, are also effective at prompting people to get a booster.
	The problem with seeing young sportspeople as athletes first, children second A recent report commissioned by Swim England, the national governing body for swimming in England, has found evidence of a "culture of fear" in swimming clubs. The report finds that children involved in competitive swimming can be treated like professional athletes, and the importance of sporting performance held above all else.
	S. Korean senior doctors to resign in support of junior medics' walkout A group of South Korean senior doctors said Saturday that they would resign starting March 25 in support of junior medics in a nearly month-long strike over government training reforms that has plunged hospitals into chaos.
	Smokes and votes: Could menthol cigarette ban sway US election? In a quintessentially American tale of race and politics, the lowly menthol cigarette is playing a curiously large role in the US presidential election this year.
	Pediatrician explains why co-viewing is important Most parents I meet these days worry about what their kids do online. After all, it can be hard to know what they're absorbing from their media interactions.
	How to check your home for bedbugs Nothing can spoil a vacation's sweet afterglow more than discovering that some unwelcome hitchhikers have accompanied you home.
	Montana, an island of abortion access, prepares for consequential elections and court decisions A years-long battle over abortion access in a sprawling and sparsely populated region of the U.S. may come to a head this year in the courts and at the ballot box.
	Child health is in crisis in the UK—here's what needs to change A new report from the Academy of Medical Sciences highlights the "appalling decline" in child health and a need for "urgent action". In recent years, child vaccination rates have fallen well below World Health Organization target levels, creating a resurgence of outbreaks of serious disease such as measles.
	Improving care for LGBTIQA+ individuals experiencing intimate partner violence New Curtin University research, in collaboration with WAAC (formerly the WA AIDS Council), is putting the spotlight on the significant challenges and barriers faced by LGBTIQA+ individuals experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) in accessing primary care in Western Australia, calling for greater improvements to ensure services are more inclusive and responsive.
	Could a probiotic for your house help to prevent asthma and keep illness at bay? Homes have become 'too clean' and could benefit from the introduction of 'healthy germs' which introduce friendly bacteria to potentially stave off a host of childhood illnesses, including asthma, experts suggest.
	Assessing breast cancer risk The genetic risk of breast cancer has been in the news lately. Researchers at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center are working toward pinpointing individuals' risk of developing breast cancer.
	Biden to sign order expanding health research in women President Joe Biden plans to sign an executive order on Monday that will broaden the scope of medical research in women.
	Social Security chief vows to fix 'cruel-hearted' overpayment clawbacks The Social Security Administration's new chief is promising to overhaul the agency's system of clawing back billions of dollars it claims was wrongly sent to beneficiaries, saying it "just doesn't seem right or fair."
	US finalizes ban on last form of asbestos in use President Joe Biden's administration on Monday finalized a rule banning the last remaining form of asbestos in the United States, half a century after the government first targeted the cancer-causing mineral.
	A new antibody capture method reveals G-quadruplex landscape and its regulation A new research paper was published in Oncotarget entitled, "G-quadruplex landscape and its regulation revealed by a new antibody capture method."
	Understanding what causes trastuzumab's cardiotoxicity A new meta-analysis published in OMICS: A Journal of Integrative Biology helps shed light on how changes in mitochondria-related gene expression may cause the cardiotoxicity associated with the cancer therapy trastuzumab.
	Five-minute test during routine GP appointments could prevent stroke People at risk should be tested for atrial fibrillation every time they attend a health appointment, according to results of the AFFECT-EU project, which is holding its final event today in Brussels, Belgium. Patients at high risk of the disorder, such as those with heart failure or prior stroke, should be invited for a screening test.
	Hypofractioned post-prostatectomy radiotherapy new acceptable practice standard based on NRG Oncology trial findings Results from the Phase III NRG Oncology NRG-GU003 clinical trial comparing hypofractioned post-prostatectomy radiotherapy (HYPORT) to conventionally fractioned post-prostatectomy radiotherapy (COPORT) determined that HYPORT was non-inferior to COPORT in terms of late gastrointestinal (GI) or genitourinary (GU) toxicity for patients primarily treated with prostatectomy for their prostate cancer.
	Potential novel biomarkers of coronary heart disease discovered Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common causes of death worldwide—especially in Europe: Here, it is responsible for nearly half of all deaths. Among middle-aged adults, individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have a two to four times higher risk of developing CHD than people without T2D. The research team investigated the predictive performance of protein biomarkers on incident CHD in individuals with and without T2D.

Other Sciences news

	Saturday Citations: The volcanoes of Mars; Starship launched; 'Try our new menu item,' say Australian researchers You never can tell when planetary scientists are going to discover a new giant volcano on Mars, but when it happens, I step out to the porch and raise my Lunar and Planetary Society Core-Mantle Boundary Rift Discovery flag so all the neighbors will know, and this week, that flag was flapping in the breeze.
	The majority of Americans do not support anti-democratic behavior, even when elected officials do: Study Recently, fundamental tenets of democracy have come under threat, from attempts to overturn the 2020 election to mass closures of polling places.
	Best of Last Week—giant trees in the UK, removing plastic from water, using gene therapy to treat brain cancer It was a good week for biological research, as a team of botanists found that giant sequoia trees are thriving in the U.K—the trees were imported to the U.K. starting approximately 160 years ago and now serve as an excellent carbon sink. Also, a team of entomologists and engineers at the Georgia Institute of Technology report that cicadas' unique urination process has unlocked a new understanding of fluid dynamics. And a team of climate and food researchers led by a group at Macquarie University studying snakes held in commercial python farms in Southeast Asia found that the snakes can offer a high-protein diet, potentially serving as a major food source for areas in need.
	An avatar will never lie, or will it? Scientists investigate how often we change our minds in virtual environments How confident are you in your judgments and how well can you defend your opinions? Chances are that they will change under the influence of a group of avatars in a virtual environment. Scientists from SWPS University have investigated the human tendency to be influenced by the opinions of others, including virtual characters.
	Is it ethical to watch AI pornography? If you're in your 20s and 30s, you probably watch pornography. Millennials and gen Z are watching more pornography than any other age group and are also more likely than any other demographic to experiment with AI pornography.
	In France, abortion rights and hijab bans highlight a double standard on women's rights The French parliament recently voted in favor of enshrining the right to abortion into the country's constitution. While crowds celebrated outside, the slogan "my body my choice" was projected onto the Eiffel Tower in giant letters.
	Opinion: Ultra-fast fashion is a disturbing trend undermining efforts to make the whole industry more sustainable Since the 1990s, fast fashion has enabled everyday people to buy the latest catwalk trends. But the sheer volume of garments being whipped up, sold and soon discarded is contributing to a global sustainability crisis.
	The sunken treasure of the San José shipwreck is contested—but its real riches go beyond coins and jewels The San José was a galleon ship owned by King Philip V of Spain (1683–1746) in the 18th century. It sailed from Portobelo in present-day Panama to Cartagena in Colombia in 1708.
	Researcher explores how the hostility Black women face in higher education carries dire consequences Isolated. Abused. Overworked. These are the themes that emerged when I invited nine Black women to chronicle their professional experiences and relationships with colleagues as they earned their Ph.D.s at a public university in the Midwest. I featured their writings in to get my Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction.
	How the Tudors dealt with food waste More than 10 million tons of food is wasted in the UK each year. Leftovers perish in their plastic Tupperware tombs, supermarket bins heave with damaged but perfectly edible produce, and fields are littered with spoiled harvests. Preventing good food from ending up in the bin is an important part of the global fight against climate change.
	What is the 'great replacement theory'? A scholar of race relations explains The "great replacement theory," whose origins date back to the late 19th century, argues that Jews and some Western elites are conspiring to replace white Americans and Europeans with people of non-European descent, particularly Asians and Africans.
	Leveling up is not working as promised—our research shows why The UK parliament has heard findings that leveling up—arguably the Conservatives' flagship policy agenda—is beset by critical delays. In a report published on March 15, the public accounts committee, parliament's expenditure watchdog, has said that, as of September 2023, local authorities had spent only £1.24 billion of the £10.47 billion the government promised to tackle regional inequality across the UK.
	This 18th-century shell collection, saved from a skip, tells a story of empire, explorers and women's equality In the 1980s, a shell collection that included specimens from Captain Cook's final voyage was accidentally thrown into a skip and believed lost forever. But much to the joy of scientists, last week it was rediscovered safe and sound and donated to English Heritage.
	The mystery of consciousness shows there may be a limit to what science alone can achieve The progress of science in the last 400 years is mind blowing. Who would have thought we'd be able to trace the history of our universe to its origins 14 billion years ago? Science has increased the length and the quality of our lives, and the technology that is commonplace in the modern world would have seemed like magic to our ancestors.
	Experts document progress under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act benefiting students with disabilities Ten years ago, the United States passed into federal law the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), broadening the mandate of state vocational rehabilitation agencies to facilitate successful school-to-work transitions for student populations. Among its many provisions, the measure provided an unparalleled opportunity to expand the scope of available experiences and training to help students with disabilities prepare for competitive integrated employment.
	Germ aversion found to have impacted 2020 election voting behavior Voters opted to pick candidates in 2020 by mail-in ballots, avoiding poll sites due to COVID-19 concerns rather than because of political party efforts to promote specific voting methods, according to a new University of Michigan study.
	Virtual reality better than video for evoking fear, spurring climate action: Study Depicting worst-case climate scenarios like expanding deserts and dying coral reefs may better motivate people to support environmental policies when delivered via virtual reality, according to a research team led by Penn State that studied how VR and message framing affect the impact of environmental advocacy communications.
	Keeping in touch: Why businesses are cultivating relationships with former employees For many people, leaving a job can be like leaving a family—and because of the personal and professional bonds they've forged, many naturally stay in touch with their former coworkers and keep apprised of what's happening in the organization.
	Resilience in architecture: The diaspora's response to the Second World War The Second World War had a profound impact not only on the fate of countries and people but also on the development of architecture. In occupied territories across the globe, architecture reflected the prevailing trends of the time.
	Bodycams in court get broad police approval, according to survey In the courtroom, Quebec provincial police officers seem to be broadly in favor of having images captured by body-worn cameras used as evidence, but are also concerned about some of the potential consequences for the pursuit of justice.
	The millions of people not looking for work in the UK may be prioritizing education, health and freedom Around one in five British people of working age (16-64) are now outside the labor market. Neither in work nor looking for work, they are officially labeled as "economically inactive."
	If polyamory is on the rise, there may be good economic reasons. But economist says arrangements are 'tricky' Social attitudes toward dating may be a factor driving interest in polyamory, but economic forces could also be playing a role, says Mindy Marks, associate professor of economics at Northeastern University.
	UK's Cambridge University halts fossil fuel funding Britain's Cambridge University confirmed on Monday that it has adopted a moratorium on new funding from fossil fuel companies after a campaign from students and academics.

---

This email is a free service of Science X Network
You received this email because you subscribed to our list.
If you do not wish to receive such emails in the future, please unsubscribe here.
You are subscribed as manojdole1.copa@blogger.com. You may manage your subscription options from your Science X profile