Science X Newsletter Thu, Apr 18

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

Spotlight Stories Headlines

Researchers investigate three star-forming regions, identify hundreds young stellar objects
Scientists uncover 95 regions of the genome linked to PTSD
AI tool predicts responses to cancer therapy using information from each cell of the tumor
Discovery of new ancient giant snake in India
Data-driven music: Converting climate measurements into music
Siblings with unique genetic mutation help scientists progress drug search for type 1 diabetes
Researchers reduce bias in pathology AI algorithms and enhance accuracy using foundation models
A common pathway in the brain that enables addictive drugs to hijack natural reward processing identified
Skyrmions move at record speeds: A step towards the computing of the future
Engineers design spider-like robot that may be used to explore caves on Mars
Using sim-to-real reinforcement learning to train robots to do simple tasks in broad environments
Researchers train a bank of AI models to identify memory formation signals in the brain
Researchers crack mystery of swirling vortexes in egg cells
Proof-of-concept nanogenerator turns CO₂ into sustainable power
New device harnesses sweat power for fitness trackers

Nanotechnology news

	New device harnesses sweat power for fitness trackers A small amount of sweat could be all that's needed to power fitness trackers of the future, new research led by Deakin University's Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM) reveals.
	Novel material supercharges innovation in electrostatic energy storage Electrostatic capacitors play a crucial role in modern electronics. They enable ultrafast charging and discharging, providing energy storage and power for devices ranging from smartphones, laptops and routers to medical devices, automotive electronics and industrial equipment. However, the ferroelectric materials used in capacitors have significant energy loss due to their material properties, making it difficult to provide high energy storage capability.
	Researchers create nanomembrane to increase reaction rate in chemical production Flow-through reactors packed with enzymes can produce certain chemicals in a gentle and careful way. However, their performance has so far been limited. A research team from the Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon and RWTH Aachen University has now been able to increase the yield a thousandfold.
	Thermal properties of new 2D materials for microchips can now be measured well Making ever smaller and more powerful chips requires new ultrathin materials: 2D materials that are only 1 atom thick, or even just a couple of atoms. Think about graphene or ultra-thin silicon membrane for instance.
	Scientists grow human mini-lungs as animal alternative for nanomaterial safety testing Human mini-lungs grown by University of Manchester scientists can mimic the response of animals when exposed to certain nanomaterials. The study is published in Nano Today.
	Scientists explore the strategies of defects and nanostructure fabrication for promoting piezocatalytic activity As an important chemical raw material, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is widely applied in various aspects of industry and life. The industrial anthraquinone method for H2O2 production has the serious flaws, such as high pollution and energy consumption. By using ubiquitous mechanical energy, piezocatalytic H2O2 evolution has been proven as a promising strategy, but its progress is hindered by unsatisfied energy conversion efficiency.

Physics news

	Skyrmions move at record speeds: A step towards the computing of the future An international research team led by scientists from the CNRS has discovered that the magnetic nanobubbles known as skyrmions can be moved by electrical currents, attaining record speeds up to 900 m/s.
	Scientists experimentally observe current-driven antiskyrmion sliding Prof. Zhang Ying's group from the Institute of Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), in collaboration with domestic universities and the Los Alamos National Laboratory in the United States, has experimentally observed current-driven antiskyrmion sliding.
	Research reveals a surprising topological reversal in quantum systems In principle, one shouldn't compare apples to oranges. However, in topology, which is a branch of mathematics, one must do just that. Apples and oranges, it turns out, are said to be topologically the same since they both lack a hole—in contrast to doughnuts or coffee cups, for instance, which both have one (the handle in the case of the cup), and thus are topologically equal.
	Smoother surfaces make for better accelerators With every new particle accelerator built for research, scientists have an opportunity to push the limits of discovery. But this is only true if new particle accelerators deliver the desired performance—no small feat in a world where each new machine is a first of its particular kind. At each project opportunity, researchers try to refine the preparation methods of key components so as to get a "better bang for the buck."
	Research team resolves decades-long problem in microscopy When viewing biological samples with a microscope, the light beam is disturbed if the lens of the objective is in a different medium than the sample. For example, when looking at a watery sample with a lens surrounded by air, the light rays bend more sharply in the air around the lens than in the water.
	First curved data link side-steps key 6G wireless challenge Next-generation wireless signals will no longer emanate indiscriminately from a base station as is the case now but will likely take the form of targeted directional beams. However, any physical interference—an object or a person passing nearby, for example—could interrupt the signal, posing a literal obstacle toward the implementation of ultrafast millimeter-wave and sub-terahertz wireless networks.
	Estimating uncertainty in atomic spectroscopy If you repeat a measurement with the same or different instruments, you'll get slightly different numbers each time. Estimating the uncertainties associated with these numbers turns them into an informative result.
	Access to burgeoning quantum technology field could be widened by educational model Quantum technology is based on the engineering of devices that make use of the quantum properties of matter. One of the most prominent avenues of this technology is quantum computing, which may be able to leverage quantum bits (qubits) to perform calculations more efficiently than classical computers. Technology with this "quantum advantage" will also operate in the background of our lives, providing ultra-secure communications and high-precision sensors and clocks.

Earth news

	A third of China's urban population at risk of city sinking, new satellite data shows Land subsidence is overlooked as a hazard in cities, according to scientists from the University of East Anglia (UEA) and Virginia Tech. Writing in the journal Science, Prof Robert Nicholls of the Tyndall Center for Climate Change Research at UEA and Prof Manoochehr Shirzaei of Virginia Tech and United Nations University for Water, Environment and Health, Ontario, highlight the importance of a new research paper analyzing satellite data that accurately and consistently maps land movement across China.
	Amazonia's fire crises: Emergency fire bans insufficient, strategic action needed before next burning season In response to the escalating fire crises in the Amazon, a timely study has revealed alarming shortcomings in the emergency fire bans implemented by the Brazilian Government. Initially seen as a promising solution in 2019, these bans have consistently fallen short in subsequent years, revealing a pressing need for strategies that address the underlying causes of each type of fire.
	'Human-induced' climate change behind deadly Sahel heat wave: Study The deadly heat wave that hit Africa's Sahel region in early April would not have occurred without human-induced climate change, according to a study by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) group published Thursday.
	Dense network of seismometers reveals how the underground ruptures The idea that earthquakes release stress by a single strong quake along a single fault plane may need to be corrected. A recent study by researchers from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) with the participation of the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences and international partner institutions points out that it would be more accurate to speak of a zone with numerous fault planes, some of which are parallel.
	Drawing a line back to the origin of life: Graphitization could provide simplicity scientists are looking for Scientists in Cambridge University suggest molecules, vital to the development of life, could have formed from a process known as graphitization. Once verified in the laboratory, it could allow us to try and recreate plausible conditions for life's emergence.
	Toxic fireproof chemicals can be absorbed through touch, 3D-printed skin model shows Cancer-causing flame retardants found in everyday things like plastics, furniture, fabrics and electronics can be sucked up by the skin and absorbed into the bloodstream in 24 hours, scientists have found.
	Scientists reveal hydroclimatic changes on multiple timescales in Central Asia over the past 7,800 years A recent study published in the PNAS shows that western Central Asia has experienced a long-term drying trend over the past 7,800 years. This discovery, based on the analysis of a stalagmite from the Fergana Valley in Kyrgyzstan, adds a critical piece to the understanding of westerly-influenced hydroclimatic patterns in Central Asia.
	Unraveling the mysteries of consecutive atmospheric river events In California's 2022-2023 winter season, the state faced nine atmospheric rivers (ARs) that led to extreme flooding, landslides, and power outages—the longest duration of continuous AR conditions in the past 70 years. Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) recently conducted a study using machine learning to understand these complex weather systems better, finding that more intense atmospheric rivers are more likely to occur in succession within a short period of time.
	Here's why experts don't think cloud seeding played a role in Dubai's downpour With cloud seeding, it may rain, but it doesn't really pour or flood—at least nothing like what drenched the United Arab Emirates and paralyzed Dubai, meteorologists said.
	Indonesians leave homes near erupting volcano and airport closes due to ash danger Indonesian authorities closed an airport and residents left homes near an erupting volcano Thursday due to the dangers of spreading ash, falling rocks, hot volcanic clouds and the possibility of a tsunami.
	El Nino not climate change driving southern Africa drought: Study A drought that pushed millions of people into hunger across southern Africa has been driven mostly by the El Niño weather pattern—not climate change, scientists said on Thursday.
	International experts issue renewed call for Global Plastics Treaty to be grounded in robust science A letter from members of the Scientists' Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty has been published in the journal Science days before the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) begins in Ottawa, Canada. With some discussions to focus on the mandate for—and then the designation and development of—a science body that will set goals and assessment criteria, the scientists say such a body should incorporate "a robust conflict of interest policy" to ensure unbiased, evidence-based decisions about the future of plastics.
	Asbestos in playground mulch—how to avoid a repeat of this circular economy scandal Asbestos has been found in mulch used for playgrounds, schools, parks and gardens across Sydney and Melbourne. Local communities naturally fear for the health of their loved ones. Exposure to asbestos is a serious health risk—depending on its intensity, frequency and duration—as it may lead to chronic lung diseases.
	Researcher studies worst western US megadrought in 1,200 years Drylands in the western United States are currently in the grips of a 23-year "megadrought," and one West Virginia University researcher is working to gain a better understanding of this extreme climate event.
	Coal train pollution increases health risks and disparities, research warns Trains carrying loads of coal bring with them higher rates of asthma, heart disease, hospitalization and death for residents living nearest the rail lines, according to a new study from the University of California, Davis.
	Mapping plant functional diversity from space: Ecosystem monitoring with novel field-satellite integration An international team of researchers, led by Professor Jin Wu from the School of Biological Sciences at The University of Hong Kong (HKU), has made a promising advancement in mapping plant functional traits from space using time-series satellite data. The study, published in Remote Sensing of Environment, showcases the innovative combination of the Sentinel-2 satellite mission and its dynamic time-series capabilities.
	Reevaluation of Colorado's iconic summits is part of a national remapping project Derek van Westrum, a physicist with NOAA's National Ocean Service (NOS), didn't want to be responsible for taking one of Colorado's beloved "Fourteeners" off the books.
	New study shows how quickly surface water moves to groundwater reservoirs across Australia A new study from Charles Darwin University (CDU), Monash University and The University of Newcastle has presented almost 100,000 estimates of groundwater recharge rates across Australia, by far the largest known database of its kind.
	Using deep learning to image the Earth's planetary boundary layer Although the troposphere is often thought of as the closest layer of the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, the planetary boundary layer (PBL)—the lowest layer of the troposphere—is actually the part that most significantly influences weather near the surface. In the 2018 planetary science decadal survey, the PBL was raised as an important scientific issue that has the potential to enhance storm forecasting and improve climate projections.
	Research suggests ways to ensure more sustainability in global agricultural trade The EU wants to ensure greater sustainability in agricultural trade with the Global South—with the aim of minimizing the environmental and climate-damaging effects of importing crops such as soya, palm oil, coffee, and cocoa. However, this aspiration is often not fulfilled in practice.
	LA's water supplies are in good shape: But is the city ready for the next drought? California's second wet winter in a row has left L.A's water supplies in good shape for at least another year, but the inevitable return to dry conditions could once again put the city's residents in a precarious position.
	Slow recovery as Dubai airport, roads still plagued by floods Dubai's airport, one of the world's busiest, witnessed major disruption for the third day in a row on Thursday after the heaviest rains on record drenched the desert United Arab Emirates.
	Q&A: Why are we drowning in single-use plastics, and what can we do about it? Plastic is ubiquitous. It's in the clothes we wear, wrapped around the food we eat and in the toothpaste we use. It floats in the oceans and litters the snow on Mount Everest.

Astronomy and Space news

	Researchers investigate three star-forming regions, identify hundreds young stellar objects Using data from various space telescopes and astronomical surveys, Armenian researchers have investigated three star-forming regions. The study identified hundreds of young stellar objects and provided important information regarding the stellar content of these regions. The new findings were presented in a paper published April 5 in the Astrophysics and Space Science journal.
	Hubble goes hunting for small main belt asteroids Like boulders, rocks, and pebbles scattered across a landscape, asteroids come in a wide range of sizes. Cataloging asteroids in space is tricky because they are faint and they don't stop to be photographed as they zip along their orbits around the sun.
	NASA's Juno gives aerial views of mountain and lava lake on Io Scientists on NASA's Juno mission to Jupiter have transformed data collected during two recent flybys of Io into animations that highlight two of the Jovian moon's most dramatic features: a mountain and an almost glass-smooth lake of cooling lava. Other recent science results from the solar-powered spacecraft include updates on Jupiter's polar cyclones and water abundance.
	NASA chief warns of Chinese military presence in space China is bolstering its space capabilities and is using its civilian program to mask its military objectives, the head of the US space agency NASA said Wednesday, warning that Washington must remain vigilant.
	SpaceX tallies 1st of two launches over two days from Space Coast SpaceX launched Wednesday evening the first of a pair of Space Coast rockets in two days, both carrying batches of the company's Starlink satellites.
	The Lyrid meteor shower peaks this weekend, but it may be hard to see it The Lyrid meteor shower is underway. But with a nearly full moon in the sky during the peak, it might be tough to see clearly.
	Are Titan's dunes made of comet dust? A new theory suggests that Titan's majestic dune fields may have come from outer space. Researchers had always assumed that the sand making up Titan's dunes was locally made, through erosion or condensed from atmospheric hydrocarbons. But researchers from the University of Colorado want to know: Could it have come from comets?
	Researchers quantify the ideal in situ construction method for lunar habitats As the lunar exploration mission evolves from exploration to construction and utilization, in situ lunar construction becomes an imperative requirement. The key is regolith solidification and formation, aiming to maximize local resource utilization while minimizing transportation and maintenance costs.

Technology news

	Engineers design spider-like robot that may be used to explore caves on Mars A team of roboticists and mechanical and aeronautical engineers at Stanford University has developed a spider-like robot for possible use in exploring caves or lava tubes on Mars. In their paper published in the journal Science Robotics, the group describes their reasons for developing the new robot, their inspiration for the design, and how well it worked when tested in a real-world environment.
	Using sim-to-real reinforcement learning to train robots to do simple tasks in broad environments A team of roboticists at the University of California, Berkeley, reports that it is possible to train robots to do relatively simple tasks by using sim-to-real reinforcement learning to train them. In their study, published in the journal Science Robotics, the group trained a robot to walk in unfamiliar environments while it carried different loads, all without toppling over.
	Proof-of-concept nanogenerator turns CO₂ into sustainable power University of Queensland researchers have built a generator that absorbs carbon dioxide (CO2) to make electricity.
	Mess is best: Disordered structure of battery-like devices improves performance The energy density of supercapacitors—battery-like devices that can charge in seconds or a few minutes—can be improved by increasing the 'messiness' of their internal structure.
	Octopus inspires new suction mechanism for robots A new robotic suction cup that can grasp rough, curved and heavy stone, has been developed by scientists at the University of Bristol. The team, based at Bristol Robotics Laboratory, studied the structures of octopus biological suckers, which have superb adaptive suction abilities enabling them to anchor to rock.
	New understanding of energy losses in emerging light source The light-emitting electrochemical cell (LEC) can be fabricated in a sustainable and cost-effective way on both rigid and flexible surfaces making it suitable for a broad range of applications, like illumination, health care, and signage. Despite its potential, this technology faces a significant challenge: a decrease in emission efficiency at higher electrical currents, a phenomenon known as "efficiency roll-off."
	Harvesting vibrational energy from 'colored noise' The energy demands of today's ubiquitous small electronic devices—including sensors, data transmitters, medical implants and 'wearable' consumer products such as Fitbits—can no longer be met by chemical batteries alone. This gap can be filled by energy harvesters, which turn ordinary, ambient vibrational energy into electrical energy.
	Floating solar's potential to support sustainable development A study, published in Nature Energy, is among the first to explore the floating photovoltaics (FPV) at the continental scale, finding that FPV installed at existing major reservoirs could produce 20–100% of the electricity expected from Africa's planned hydropower dams. Using a state-of-the-art energy planning model covering the continent's entire energy system, the researchers found that FPV is cost-competitive with other renewables and thus a key part of Africa's future energy mix.
	An ink for 3D-printing flexible devices without mechanical joints EPFL researchers are targeting the next generation of soft actuators and robots with an elastomer-based ink for 3D printing objects with locally changing mechanical properties, eliminating the need for cumbersome mechanical joints.
	For more open and equitable public discussions on social media, try 'meronymity' Have you ever felt reluctant to share ideas during a meeting because you feared judgment from senior colleagues? You're not alone. Research has shown this pervasive issue can lead to a lack of diversity in public discourse, especially when junior members of a community don't speak up because they feel intimidated.
	Garbage could replace a quarter of petroleum-based jet fuel every year Every year, the nation's aviation industry uses around 22 billion gallons of jet fuel, which produces about 1 billion tons of carbon dioxide—or 3% of the world's carbon dioxide emissions. Because of this, researchers and policymakers alike are eyeing aviation as an industry ripe with opportunity to lower emissions.
	Team develops a way to teach a computer to type like a human An entirely new predictive typing model can simulate different kinds of users, helping reveal ways to optimize how we use our phones. Developed by researchers at Aalto University, the new model captures the difference between typing with one or two hands and between younger and older users.
	Colorado law protects brain data captured by gadgets Colorado on Wednesday expanded its privacy law to include brain data gathered by the booming array of gadgets people use for feedback about sleep, fitness, sports, and lifestyle.
	Russian 'cyber sabotage' a global threat: Security firm A cyber group with links to Russian military intelligence is set to become a significant global threat after playing an increasing critical role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a leading cybersecurity firm warned Wednesday.
	Media groups urge feds to investigate after Google limits California news in search results Two journalism trade organizations representing thousands of publishers this week called on California Attorney General Rob Bonta, the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission to investigate Google, after the tech giant announced that it was pulling California news articles from its search platforms for some users.
	UK police say they disrupted cyber fraud network that stole personal data from thousands A website that allowed international cyber fraudsters to trick up to 70,000 British victims into revealing personal information such as bank account details and passwords has been infiltrated and disrupted, London police said Thursday.
	A new wave of wearable devices will harvest a mountain of personal data Web and mobile services try to understand the desires and goals of users by analyzing how they interact with their platforms. Smartphones, for instance, capture online data from users at a large scale and low cost.
	Visualizing the 1800s or designing wedding invitations: Six ways you can use AI beyond generating text As more than half of Australian office workers report using generative artificial intelligence (AI) for work, we're starting to see this technology affect every part of society, from banking and finance through to weather forecasting, health and medicine.
	Green cement production is scaling up—and it could cut the carbon footprint of construction Aside from water, concrete is the most-used material in the world, with about 14 billion cubic meters being used every year. Of that, 40% of that is used to build places for people to live.
	Researchers develop technology to improve offshore wind safety Deepwater divers who monitor and maintain underwater transmission lines and cables for offshore wind turbines face hazards such as subfreezing temperatures, low visibility, jellyfish and sharks.
	Meta's newest AI model beats some peers. But its amped-up AI agents are confusing Facebook users Facebook parent Meta Platforms unveiled a new set of artificial intelligence systems Thursday that are powering what CEO Mark Zuckerberg calls "the most intelligent AI assistant that you can freely use."
	Advancing performance assessment of a spectral beam splitting hybrid PV/T system with water-based SiO₂ nanofluid As the globe grapples with the urgent need to shift from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources, solar power stands as a beacon of hope. However, a significant challenge has been to efficiently capture and utilize the full spectrum of sunlight. Traditional photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity but can't use the entire solar spectrum, especially the infrared part which is often wasted as heat.
	Researchers perform critical literature review on fairness and AI in the labor market Carlotta Rigotti and Eduard Fosch-Villaronga have published a new article that offers an insightful and critical literature review on fairness and AI in the labor market as part of the BIAS project.
	Recycling carbon fiber reinforced plastics waste is a challenge, but researchers find a way to make it work Carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) are lighter and stronger than metal and are used in a variety of industries, including aviation, aerospace, automotive, marine, and sporting goods. In recent years, it has also been applied to new industries such as air mobility, which has led to an increase in its use and a waste disposal problem. However, CFRP is not naturally degradable, and high-temperature incineration methods emit toxic substances and cause environmental pollution, so it is urgent to develop recycling technology.
	New report tackles electric vehicle charging payment challenges and offers key recommendations Payment issues can affect electric vehicle (EV) drivers' charging experiences. EV charging should be accessible, convenient, and reliable, and payment issues affect both accessibility and reliability.
	Can bismuth prevent oil leaks and save Norwegians billions? Over the next 25 years, as the world shifts away from fossil fuels, the oil and gas wells that have sustained the fossil fuel age will have to be plugged.
	What a seminal economics paper tells us about the future of creativity Full disclosure: ChatGPT didn't write this—but theoretically, it could have. Generative AI has progressed to the point where its output seems comparable in style and quality to that of human content creators. At first glance, at least. As a result, human creatives are feeling a bit defensive these days, their fears of obsolescence apparently confirmed by wave after wave of media layoffs and ominous suggestions from Hollywood studios.
	New research finds electric vehicles depreciate faster than gas cars, but the trend is changing Thinking of buying an electric vehicle but unsure about its resale value? New research finds that while older electric vehicle models depreciate in value faster than conventional gas cars, newer electric vehicle models with longer driving ranges are holding their value better and approaching the retention rates of many gas cars.
	Universal 'cocktail electrolyte' developed for 4.6 V ultra-stable fast charging of commercial lithium-ion batteries Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), mainly used as the power of computer, communication and consumer electronic products, require higher energy density, longer cycling life, faster-charging capability, and a broader operating temperature range to meet the growing consumer demands.
	Scientists urge action over life-threatening pollution from solar power waste in Africa Researchers from The University of Manchester investigating waste management practices for off-grid solar technologies in Malawi have discovered life-threatening quantities of lead pollution from improperly managed battery waste.
	Taiwan chip giant TSMC's profits surge on AI demand Taiwanese semiconductor giant TSMC announced Thursday a nearly 9 percent increase in net profits in the first quarter of 2024, buoyed by global demand for its microchips used to power everything from mobile phones to AI technology.
	Tesla, Starlink entry on agenda when Musk heads to India Tech billionaire Elon Musk is set to visit India as his businesses seek new markets in the world's most populous nation, with electric carmaker Tesla—suffering a sales downturn in the United States—reportedly scouting factory locations.
	Sealing homes' leaky HVAC systems: A sneaky good climate solution There's a hidden scourge making homes more harmful to the climate and less comfortable: leaky heating and cooling systems. Plugging those leaks may be the dull stepchild of the energy transition, but that doesn't make it any less important than installing dazzling solar arrays and getting millions of electric vehicles on the road.
	Nokia sees double-digit fall in January-March sales as weak market for 5G technology prevails Wireless and fixed-network equipment maker Nokia on Thursday reported a smaller-than-expected profit and a double-digit fall in sales in the first quarter due to a market weakened by a lack of clients investing in 5G technology.
	Google fires 28 workers in aftermath of protests over big tech deal with Israeli government Google has fired 28 employees in the aftermath of protests over technology that the internet company is supplying the Israeli government amid the Gaza war, further escalating tensions surrounding a hot-button deal.
	TikTok stops working in Kyrgyzstan after ban proposals Kyrgyzstan appears to have blocked TikTok after the Central Asian country's security services called to restrict the social media app to "protect children".
	US Congress to take on TikTok ban bill—again The US House of Representatives will again vote Saturday on a bill that would force TikTok to divest from Chinese parent company ByteDance or face a nationwide ban.
	Study demonstrates high CO₂ storage efficiency in shale reservoirs using fracturing technology A new study published in the journal Engineering unveils the remarkable carbon storage potential of shale reservoirs utilizing CO2 fracturing technology.
	Shares of Walmart-backed Ibotta soar 23% on public debut Shares of Ibotta, a Walmart-backed digital company that offers customers cash-back rewards and rebates on grocery brands ranging from Nestle to Coca-Cola, rose 23% in its Wall Street debut on the New York Stock Exchange.

Direct utilization of water as a source of hydrogen atoms and molecules is fundamental to the evolution of the ecosystem and industry. However, liquid water is an unfavorable electron donor for forming these hydrogen species due to its redox inertness.

Materials follow the 'Rule of Four,' but scientists don't know why yet

Scientists are normally happy to find regularities and correlations in their data—but only if they can explain them. Otherwise, they worry that those patterns might just be revealing some flaw in the data itself, so-called experimental artifacts.

Biology news

	Discovery of new ancient giant snake in India A new ancient species of snake dubbed Vasuki Indicus, which lived around 47 million years ago in the state of Gujarat in India, may have been one of the largest snakes to have ever lived, suggests new research published in Scientific Reports. The new species, which reached an estimated length of between 11 and 15 meters, was part of the now extinct madtsoiidae snake family, but represented a distinct lineage that originated in India.
	Researchers train a bank of AI models to identify memory formation signals in the brain An international research collaboration between Vanderbilt University and the Madrid-based de la Prida lab in the Cajal Institute led to the development of AI models that detect and analyze hippocampal ripples, which are considered biomarkers of memory.
	Researchers crack mystery of swirling vortexes in egg cells Egg cells are the largest single cells on the planet. Their size—often several to hundreds of times the size of a typical cell—allows them to grow into entire organisms, but it also makes it difficult to transport nutrients and other molecules around the cell. Scientists have long known that maturing egg cells, called oocytes, generate internal, twister-like fluid flows to transport nutrients, but how those flows arise in the first place has been a mystery.
	Capturing DNA origami folding with a new dynamic model Most people are familiar with the DNA double-helix. Its twisted ladder shape forms because the long pieces of DNA that make up our genome are exactly complementary—every adenine paired to a thymine, and every cytosine paired to a guanine. Sequences of these four nucleotides hold the information needed to build the proteins in our bodies, but they also encode their own double-helical structure.
	Instinct for 'fight or flight' may be much older than we thought Evidence in lampreys for the presence of a rudimentary sympathetic nervous system, previously thought to be unique to jawed vertebrates, has been presented in Nature. The finding may prompt a rethink of the origins of the sympathetic nervous system, which operates without conscious thought and controls the fight or flight reaction.
	Scientists construct organo-phosphatic shells of brachiopods Biomineralized columns, stacked in layers like a sandwich gave Cambrian brachiopod shells their strength and flexibility 520 million years ago.
	Researchers reveal a hidden trait in Mycobacterium genomes governing stress adaptation A new study, led by Qingyun Liu, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Genetics, has uncovered a genetic feature known as "transcriptional plasticity," which plays a pivotal role in governing the transcriptional response of Mycobacteria to stressful conditions.
	How insects control their wings: The mysterious mechanics of insect flight Many of us would love the superpower to fly, and for good reason: Flight offers a crucial evolutionary advantage. Flying enables an animal to travel large distances quickly, in search of food and new habitats, while expending far less energy than walking. Through flight, insects colonized the planet and fostered the massive diversification of flowering plants by acting as efficient pollinators. They also enabled the evolution of other creatures like reptiles, birds, and mammals by serving as ample food supply.
	Team finds direct evidence of 'itinerant breeding' in East Coast shorebird species Migration and reproduction are two of the most demanding events in a bird's annual cycle, so much so that the vast majority of migratory birds separate the two tasks into different times of the year.
	Invasive species sound off about impending ecosystem changes Anticipating changes to ecosystems is often at best an educated guess, but what if there was a way to better tune into possible changes occurring?
	Scientists discover forests that may resist climate change While it's common knowledge that mountaintops are colder than the valleys below, a new University of Vermont (UVM) study is flipping the script on what we know about forests and climate.
	RNA's hidden potential: New study unveils its role in early life and future bioengineering The beginning of life on Earth and its evolution over billions of years continue to intrigue researchers worldwide. The central dogma or the directional flow of genetic information from a deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA) template to a ribose nucleic acid (RNA) transcript, and finally into a functional protein, is fundamental to cellular structure and functions.
	Mobile genetic elements can inadvertently suppress bacterial immune systems, research reveals Bacterial restriction-modification systems are responsible for protecting cells from foreign genetic material, for example, bacteriophages and plasmids. Immune systems require strict regulation, as bacteria, like humans, can have autoimmune reactions—an attack on their own DNA.
	Why the kookaburra's iconic laugh is at risk of being silenced Once, while teaching a class of environmental science students in China's Hebei University of Science and Technology, I asked who knew what a laughing kookaburra was. There were many blank faces. Then I tilted my head, much like a kookaburra does, and opened my mouth: "kok-kak-KAK-KAK-KAK-KOK-KAK-KOK-kook-kook-kok, kok, kok." I became the "bushman's alarm clock".
	Bird flu in cattle: What are the concerns surrounding the newly emerging bovine H5N1 influenza virus? The confirmed presence of bird flu in American dairy cattle in a March 25 report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)—and a case in Texas where a human working with cattle was infected—has put Canadian public health experts on high alert.
	Africa is full of bats, but their fossils are scarce—why these rare records matter Africa is home to more than 20% of the world's bat population. There are more than 200 species to be found on the continent. South Africa is particularly diverse, with 72 bat species.
	Polystyrene microplastics shown to enhance invasion of exotic submerged macrophytes Submerged macrophyte invasions and microplastic pollution are major challenges in the context of global change and pose a serious threat to aquatic environments. The presence of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems alters plant function, sediment microbial community structure and ecosystem multifunctionality, but how microplastic pollution affects exotic submerged macrophyte invasions and the mechanisms by which environmental and biological factors play a role are not clear.
	Tagging project sheds light on the elusive white shark Researchers have discovered new white shark behaviors by attaching smart tags and cameras to their fins, revealing never-before-seen details of the lives of the elusive creatures.
	Describing growing tissues in the language of thermodynamics A key feature of biological tissues is their inhomogeneity and their ability to grow via cell reproduction. To study this behavior, it is important to describe it using equations, which account for factors including growth rates, chemical signaling, and tissue structure.
	Could fish ponds help with Hawaiʻi's food sustainability? Indigenous aquaculture systems in Hawaiʻi, known as loko iʻa or fish ponds, can increase the amount of fish and fisheries harvested both inside and outside of the pond. This is the focus of a study published by a team of researchers at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB). Today, aquaculture supplies less than 1% of Hawaiʻi's 70 million pounds of locally available seafood, but revitalization of loko iʻa has the potential to significantly increase locally available seafood.
	Fourteen years after the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, endemic fishes face an uncertain future The 2010 Gulf of Mexico Deepwater Horizon was the largest accidental oil spill in history. With almost 100 million gallons (379 million liters) of oil combined with dispersants suggested to remain in the Gulf, it is one of the worst pollution events ever. More than a decade later, its long-term effects are still not fully understood.
	Respiratory stress response that stunts temperate fish also affects coral reef fish Coral reef fish, like the fish in other marine and freshwater ecosystems, are likely to reach smaller maximum sizes and start reproducing earlier with smaller and fewer eggs as climate change continues to warm up the ocean.
	Marine microbial populations: Potential sensors of the global change in the ocean Animal and plant populations have been extensively studied, which has helped to elucidate ecosystem processes and evolutionary adaptations. However, this has not been the case with microbial populations, due to the impossibility of isolating, culturing and analyzing the genetic content of the different species and their individuals in the laboratory. Therefore, although it is known that populations of microorganisms include a great diversity, it remains largely uncharacterized.
	Rewild the soil: The largest urban rewilding project is going underground The largest urban rewilding project in the U.K. is happening on an old golf course.
	Effects of organic matter input and temperature change on soil aggregate-associated respiration and microbial carbon use The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is one of the most dramatically affected regions by global warming. For a long time, the region has been exposed by low temperature and soil moisture, which led to the severe inhibition of the soil biological activities and decomposition enzyme systems.

Medicine and Health news

	Scientists uncover 95 regions of the genome linked to PTSD In post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), intrusive thoughts, changes in mood, and other symptoms after exposure to trauma can greatly impact a person's quality of life. About 6% of people who experience trauma develop the disorder, but scientists don't yet understand the neurobiology underlying PTSD.
	AI tool predicts responses to cancer therapy using information from each cell of the tumor With more than 200 types of cancer and every cancer individually unique, ongoing efforts to develop precision oncology treatments remain daunting. Most of the focus has been on developing genetic sequencing assays or analyses to identify mutations in cancer driver genes, then trying to match treatments that may work against those mutations.
	Siblings with unique genetic mutation help scientists progress drug search for type 1 diabetes Two siblings who have the only known mutations in a key gene anywhere in the world have helped scientists gain new insights that could help progress the search for new treatments in type 1 diabetes.
	Researchers reduce bias in pathology AI algorithms and enhance accuracy using foundation models Advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems have shown promise in revolutionizing the field of pathology by transforming the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease; however, the underrepresentation of certain patient populations in pathology datasets used to develop AI models may limit the overall quality of their performance and widen health disparities.
	A common pathway in the brain that enables addictive drugs to hijack natural reward processing identified Mount Sinai researchers, in collaboration with scientists at The Rockefeller University, have uncovered a mechanism in the brain that allows cocaine and morphine to take over natural reward processing systems. Published online in Science on April 18, these findings shed new light on the neural underpinnings of drug addiction and could offer new mechanistic insights to inform basic research, clinical practice, and potential therapeutic solutions.
	Large genomic study finds tri-ancestral origins for Japanese population A multi-institutional team of geneticists and genomic and genotyping specialists in Japan has sequenced the genomes of thousands of Japanese people from across the country, looking to settle the debate surrounding the ancestry of the Japanese people.
	Researchers identify patterns that predict ovarian cancer relapse Using spatial analysis of tissue samples, Cedars-Sinai investigators have identified patterns that could predict whether patients with the most common type of ovarian cancer will experience early relapse after treatment. These patterns, detailed in a study published in Science Advances, could point to possible therapies.
	Molecular atlas shows how the growth factor erythropoietin affects neurons A new study that including participants from the Central Institute of Mental Health in Mannheim shows how the growth factor erythropoietin (EPO) protects and regenerates nerve cells in the brain. In particular, the important role of interneurons has now been clarified. The findings could potentially be of significance in neuropsychiatric disorders and enable new therapeutic approaches in the future.
	New urine-based test detects high-grade prostate cancer, helping men avoid unnecessary biopsies Researchers at the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center have developed a new urine-based test that addresses a major problem in prostate cancer: how to separate the slow-growing form of the disease unlikely to cause harm from more aggressive cancer that needs immediate treatment.
	Long COVID patients show immunological improvement two years after infection Biomarkers for long COVID that were present in patients at eight months have largely resolved by 24 months among a cohort of people who contracted COVID-19 during Australia's first wave.
	Potential new treatment strategy for aggressive leukemia Scientists have found a potential treatment strategy for an aggressive type of leukemia by targeting enzymes used by cells to sense and adapt to oxygen levels.
	Study finds promising biomarker for cellular rejection after organ transplant Today, patients who receive an organ transplant need repeated surgical biopsies to test for acute cellular rejection (ACR) throughout their lifetimes. But a blood test for ACR could be on the horizon following the discovery of a promising biomarker.
	New heart disease calculator could save lives by identifying high-risk patients missed by current tools Collaborative research, led from the University of Oxford and published today in Nature Medicine, has developed a new tool called QR4 that more accurately predicts an individual's 10-year risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, particularly identifying high-risk patients that current prediction tools miss.
	Study shows metabolic health before vaccination determines effectiveness of anti-flu response Metabolic health (normal blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, among other factors) influences the effectiveness of influenza vaccinations. Vaccination is known to be less effective in people with obesity compared to those with a healthier body mass index (BMI), but St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists have found it is not obesity itself, but instead metabolic dysfunction, which makes the difference.
	Responsiveness to ADHD treatment may be determined by neuroanatomy New research from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King's College London has found that the effectiveness of ADHD medication may be associated with an individual's neuroanatomy.
	Perfect balance: How the brain fine-tunes its sensitivity A sensitive perception of the environment is crucial for guiding our behavior. However, an overly sensitive response of the brain's neural circuits to stimuli can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders such as epilepsy. University of Basel researchers report in the journal Nature how neuronal networks in the mouse brain are fine-tuned.
	Scientists identify airway cells that sense aspirated water and acid reflux When a mouthful of water goes down the wrong pipe—heading toward a healthy person's lungs instead of their gut—they start coughing uncontrollably. That's because their upper airway senses the water and quickly signals the brain. The same coughing reflex is set off in people with acid reflux, when acid from the stomach reaches the throat.
	DNA vaccine against Zika performs well in tests on mice In Brazil, researchers at the University of São Paulo (USP) and the Pernambuco division of Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ) are developing a Zika vaccine. The formulation was tested on mice and found to be efficacious, inducing an immune response against the virus and protecting the animals appropriately. The results are reported in an article published in Frontiers in Immunology.
	Novel cell therapy treatments offer promise to immune-compromised children In a first-of-its-kind clinical trial, researchers found that intravenous therapies made from virus-specific T-cells (VST) can effectively treat immunocompromised pediatric patients, far surpassing the current standard of care, according to new research published in Nature Communications.
	Mutations in noncoding DNA become functional in some cancer-driving genes Some genes are known to drive cancer, and astonishing new research shows why: Mutations in the noncoding regions become functional, altering the abundance of messenger RNA, or mRNA, and potentially facilitating cell proliferation. Even more surprising, the number of mutations in these regions can predict patient survival time for certain types of cancer.
	Environment may influence metacognitive abilities more than genetics Twin studies have proven invaluable for teasing out the effects of both genetics and the environment on human biology. In a study published April 2 in Cell Reports, researchers studied pairs of twins to look at how the interplay of genetics and environment affect cognitive processing—the way that people think. They found that some cognitive abilities appear to be regulated more by environmental factors than by genetics.
	Study finds that human neuron signals flow in one direction Contrary to previous assumptions, nerve cells in the human neocortex are wired differently than in mice. Those are the findings of a new study conducted by Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin and published in the journal Science. The study found that human neurons communicate in one direction, while in mice, signals tend to flow in loops. This increases the efficiency and capacity of the human brain to process information. These discoveries could further the development of artificial neural networks.
	Immune cells carry a long-lasting 'memory' of early-life pain In recent years, a growing body of research has shown that the human body can "remember" the pain of newborn injuries—including life-saving surgeries—all the way into adolescence.
	Opioid dependence remains high but stable in Scotland, new surveillance report finds Opioid dependence in Scotland remains high but largely stable, according to a new University of Bristol-led analysis published in Addiction. The study is the first to estimate the number of people dependent on opioid drugs (such as heroin), and who are in or could benefit from drug treatment, among Scotland's population since 2015/2016 estimates were published.
	Smoking-related deaths could be reduced if people attending lung cancer screening are offered stop-smoking support A new study has found that by offering stop-smoking support as part of the national lung cancer screening program, there is potential to save lives, and dedicated funding must be considered by policymakers.
	Study finds ChatGPT shows promise as medication management tool, could help improve geriatric health care Polypharmacy, or the concurrent use of five or more medications, is common in older adults and increases the risk of adverse drug interactions. While deprescribing unnecessary drugs can combat this risk, the decision-making process can be complex and time-consuming. Increasingly, there is a need for effective polypharmacy management tools that can support short-staffed primary care practitioners.
	UK, EU face significant medicine shortages: Study Patients in the UK and European Union are facing shortages of vital medicines such as antibiotics and epilepsy medication, research published Thursday found.
	States want to make it harder for health insurers to deny care, but firms might evade enforcement For decades, Amina Tollin struggled with mysterious, debilitating pain that radiated throughout her body. A few years ago, when a doctor finally diagnosed her with polyneuropathy, a chronic nerve condition, she had begun to use a wheelchair.
	Study finds maltreated children are three times more likely to develop substance use disorders in adulthood A study published in the scientific journal Addiction has found that people who are maltreated as children may be three times more likely to be admitted to hospital for alcohol and substance use disorders by the age of 40, compared with those who are not maltreated.
	WHO clarifies terminology for air-transmitted pathogens The World Health Organization on Thursday announced a new, catch-all terminology for pathogens that transmit through the air, erasing a distinction that caused dangerous confusion during the COVID pandemic.
	Human cases of bird flu 'an enormous concern': WHO The World Health Organization voiced alarm Thursday at the growing spread of H5N1 bird flu to new species, including humans, who face an "extraordinarily high" mortality rate.
	Two-drug combo curbs drinking for people battling severe alcoholism A combo of an allergy drug and a blood pressure med appears to lower daily drinking in folks battling severe alcoholism, French researchers report.
	Big health care disparities persist across the US, new report finds Deep-seated racial and ethnic disparities persist in health care across the United States, even in states considered the most progressive, a new report shows.
	Report finds high levels of pesticides in 20% of fruits, veggies Nearly 20% of fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables that Americans eat contain concerning levels of pesticides, a new report finds.
	What are 'Ozempic babies?' Can the drug really increase your chance of pregnancy? Now we're seeing a rise in stories about "Ozempic babies," where women who use drugs like Ozempic (semaglutide) report unexpected pregnancies.
	Gym hygiene guide: The dangerous bacteria that lurk in dirty fitness equipment and clothes A friend of mine, on a recent trip to the gym, declined to use the machine for drying his trunks—that gym equivalent of a salad spinner which removes excess water from your swimming costume. His reason? The amount of "fecal excrement" it was likely to contain.
	London Marathon: How visually impaired people run In this weekend's London Marathon, nearly 50,000 runners will hit the capital's streets in one of the world's most iconic races. For the visually impaired (VI) runners on the start line, their approach to this famous route will differ from their sighted counterparts. Just as there are misconceptions about blindness itself, many people are confused about how VI people run.
	Families often have chief medical officers—and they're almost always women In every family, there's often one person who takes charge of everybody's health care needs. Who makes sure everyone gets an annual health exam. That they get their teeth cleaned and their prescriptions filled. And that all the insurance claims get filed.
	New therapy shows promise for a rare childhood dementia New RNA-targeted therapy can halt the progression of a specific type of childhood dementia in mice and holds potential to reverse some of the detrimental effects of this rare disease.
	UN approves an updated cholera vaccine that could help fight a surge in cases The World Health Organization has approved a version of a widely used cholera vaccine that could help address a surge in cases that has depleted the global vaccine stockpile and left poorer countries scrambling to contain epidemics.
	Climate change and chemical exposure can damage newborns' hearts, say experts The complex interplay of rising temperatures and exposure to polluting compounds and chemicals can damage children's hearts, experts have warned.
	Trial for immunotherapy drug shows promise for aggressive breast cancer University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center researchers have conducted a phase II clinical trial investigating the potential of pembrolizumab maintenance therapy, a type of immunotherapy, in aggressive forms of breast cancer. The trial was led by Naoto T. Ueno, UH Cancer Center director, and Toshiaki Iwase, assistant professor and medical director, and was conducted at their former institution, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
	Contracting RSV before age two can cause long-term lung changes and impairment Infants and children who have severe cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) before age 2 are likely to have changes to their lung structure and function that could affect respiratory health later in life.
	Telemedicine can change care for the better say health care experts Telemedicine has come to play an important role in patient care, but without prompt congressional action, it may no longer be an option for millions of Americans.
	Quick decisions in soccer enhanced by brain's ability to suppress actions, researchers find To pass or not to pass, that is the question faced by soccer players the world over in every match. It might be unsurprising that higher skilled players exhibit better execution of actions than lower skilled ones, but now an Osaka Metropolitan University-led research team has evidence that the neural process to suppress actions also plays an important role. The findings were published in Brain Sciences.
	Female experiences to manage pelvic pain: Study hopes to improve pain through education A new study published in Pain from the University of South Australia is putting people's experiences of pelvic pain at the front of pain education to develop better pain management strategies and improved outcomes.
	COVID-19 booster immunity lasts much longer than primary series alone, study shows Thinking about getting a spring-time booster shot? A new study coming out of York University's Centre for Disease Modelling in the Faculty of Science shows that immunity after a COVID-19 booster lasts much longer than the primary series alone. These findings are among other—sometimes "unintuitive"—revelations of how factors like age, sex and comorbidities do and don't affect immune response.
	Children who delay gratification more likely to do well academically, have fewer behavioral problems, study finds Suppose you were given a choice between having a smaller reward now and getting a larger reward 10 minutes later. For most adults, the choice is clear. Withstanding short-term temptation in pursuit of a greater long-term goal is crucial for the functioning and well-being of individuals and society.
	Key barriers and solutions identified to increase vaccine uptake in pregnancy Researchers from St George's, University of London have identified key barriers to vaccine uptake for whooping cough, flu and COVID-19 in pregnant women, and outline recommendations for addressing vaccine hesitancy. The results are from the first review of its kind and are published in the journal PLOS ONE.
	Rising number of Americans sent to ERs last year during heat waves As climate change threatens another long hot summer for Americans, new data shows last summer's record-breaking temperatures sent a rising number of people to emergency departments. The findings are published in the journal MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
	Check your fridge for Trader Joe's fresh basil, linked to salmonella Fresh organic basil tainted with salmonella and sold by Trader Joe's in 29 states has sickened at least 12 people, according to an alert issued Wednesday by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
	No negative impact from prolonged eye patching on child's development or family stress levels Parents of children with unilateral congenital cataracts (UCC) may wonder how long to patch, and whether extended periods of patching might affect their child's development or cause undue stress for the child or family, particularly among children with poor vision in the treated eye. A first-of-its-kind study has now found that families whose children have UCC can rest easier, knowing that continuing to patch throughout the preschool years does not negatively impact parenting stress or child development, motor functioning, and self-perception when compared to children for whom patching was abandoned.
	Divisive diagnosis raised in George Floyd case under scrutiny A movement to discredit a controversial medical diagnosis is being bolstered by a new study out of McGill University. Excited delirium describes a state of agitation, aggression, and distress and has become a common defense to counter charges of police brutality. In the case of George Floyd, the syndrome was initially used as a legal defense for the Minneapolis police officer charged in his death.
	Cannabis legalization and rising sales have not contributed to increase in substance abuse, study finds The results of a new study, utilizing the most recent data on adolescent substance use to evaluate the effect of recreational cannabis legalization and retail sales on youth's use of cannabis, tobacco, and alcohol, appear in JAMA Pediatrics.
	Study shows young people living in deprived coastal areas have worst health Young people living in deprived coastal areas are likely to become unhealthier young adults than those living in deprived inland communities, according to new research.
	Digital cognitive therapy can help treat obsessive taboo thoughts Are you tormented by an exaggerated fear of harming your child? Relax—it's common, and research shows that it's also treatable.
	Study finds potential new treatment path for lasting Lyme disease symptoms Tulane University researchers have identified a promising new approach to treating persistent neurological symptoms associated with Lyme disease, offering hope to patients who suffer from long-term effects of the bacterial infection, even after antibiotic treatment. Their results were published in Frontiers in Immunology.
	Increase in smoking among younger women in more advantaged social groups in England: Study Smoking among women under 45 from more advantaged social groups in England appears to have increased over the past decade, according to a new study by UCL researchers.
	As syphilis cases among US newborns soar, doctors group advises more screening during pregnancy With syphilis cases in U.S. newborns skyrocketing, a doctors group now recommends that all pregnant patients be screened three times for the sexually transmitted infection.
	Hemorrhagic complications rare after cranial epilepsy surgery Hemorrhagic complications are uncommon after cranial epilepsy surgery, according to a study published online April 12 in World Neurosurgery.
	Worrying conflict of interest: UK health care organizations receiving payments from medical device industry Joint replacements, pacemakers, surgical instruments, and sutures; medical devices are a staple of health care. New research published in the journal Health Policy and Technology reveals that UK hospitals, universities, and other health care organizations received over €37 million in 'education' payments from the medical device firms that supply them, sparking concerns by the report authors that a "worrying conflict of interest" is at play.
	Obesity-induced cognitive decline: Role of brain oxidation and tocotrienols Obesity has become a pressing worldwide health issue, with rates steadily rising over recent decades. Beyond its well-documented associations with physical health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, obesity has also been linked to cognitive decline, including conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Understanding the complex mechanisms underlying this cognitive impairment is crucial for developing effective interventions.
	Study explores how relationship with partner impacts breast cancer survivor's emotional and physical well-being Diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer place significant stress on survivors, their partners, and their relationships. A new study from researchers with Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University's Schools of Nursing, Science, and Medicine is one of the first to examine the impact of relationship satisfaction and agreement between breast cancer survivors and their partners on the survivor's emotional and physical health.
	Gay and bisexual men diagnosed with mpox face substantial stigma, finds study Gay and bisexual men who were diagnosed with mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) during the 2022 outbreak in England faced substantial issues related to stigma and potentially poor-quality care when accessing services, finds a new study led by UCL researchers.
	Researchers discover new therapeutic target for non-small cell lung cancer Non-small cell lung cancer accounts for nearly 85% of all lung cancer cases. Targeted immunotherapy is a common treatment, but it does not work for everyone. However, a new Moffitt Cancer Center study published in the journal Immunity offers insight into how lung cancer cells evade the protective immune system, potentially opening a door for novel antibody-based immunotherapies.
	Mitigating the risk of infection in combat-related injuries The severely invasive nature of combat trauma creates massive regions of injury, colonization and infection, requiring specialized diagnostic and aggressive therapeutic approaches. Previous reports indicate an estimated occurrence of wound infections in 18%–25% of combat-related injuries.
	Primary care program blending virtual with in-person options connects locals to family physicians An innovative health care program developed by researchers at the University of Ottawa has successfully paired residents with family physicians at a time when Canada is lagging behind comparable, high-income countries in providing access to primary care providers.
	When rogue brokers switch people's ACA policies, tax surprises can follow Tax season is never fun. But some tax filers this year face an added complication: Their returns are being rejected because they failed to provide information about Affordable Care Act coverage they didn't even know they had.
	Mental health workers called to emergencies to be eligible for the same benefits as other first responders Lawmakers are moving ahead with a measure that would make mental health professionals who get sent on emergency calls alongside law enforcement eligible for the same benefits as other first responders if they're also hurt in the line of duty.
	California health workers may face rude awakening with $25 minimum wage law Nearly a half-million health workers who stand to benefit from California's nation-leading $25 minimum wage law could be in for a rude awakening if hospitals and other health care providers follow through on potential cuts to hours and benefits.
	Doctor explains pink eye Pink eye is extremely common in kids. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, public schoolchildren in the U.S. miss 3 million school days each year because of pink eye.
	Dermatologist offers advice on how often you should wash your hair To shampoo or not to shampoo? That might be your question each time you head into the shower. Dr. Dawn Davis, a Mayo Clinic dermatologist, says, when it comes to the scalp and the hair, there's a new trend online where shampooing less is preferred. Here's what she would like you to consider when it comes time to washing your hair.
	Pilots, and airlines, are struggling with mental health. Here's what they're doing to help Captain Robert Graves sees strangers every day as a pilot for Southwest Airlines.
	Nearly 136 million people in Africa live with hearing difficulties: Tackling the crisis with a smartphone and an app In rural Kenya, 64-year-old John Kamau's world of silence is about to change. For decades, isolated by hearing loss from the community's vibrant life and his grandchildren's conversations, he sees hope when a community health worker visits with a smartphone in hand.
	Video: Busting plant-based diet myths Many people eat a plant-based diet for health benefits and cultural and religious beliefs, while others just enjoy the savory taste of fruits and vegetables.
	Injuries landing many Aussie kids and teens in hospital, says report Every year, thousands of children and adolescents aged 0–18 across Australia present to an emergency department (ED) or are hospitalized for an injury or poisoning incident. Injury hospitalizations are the third leading contributor to the burden of disease for children and adolescents aged 0–19 years. Injuries sustained during childhood can have profound and lifelong effects on health and development.
	Reticulon 3 deficiency ameliorates post-myocardial infarction heart failure by alleviating mitochondrial dysfunction Heart failure (HF) after myocardial infarction (MI) is a global health issue with a high mortality rate. Multiple molecular mechanisms are involved in the development of HF after MI. However, interventions targeting these pathological processes alone remain clinically ineffective.
	Elevated glutamine triggers stroke risk in moyamoya disease via endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition, finds study A study appearing in MedComm has been led by Dr. Jizong Zhao, Dr. Dong Zhang, and Dr. Peicong Ge (Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University and Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Hospital). The team presents a comprehensive investigation involving 360 adult MMD patients, finding that elevated serum glutamine levels were linked to increased stroke risk. Manipulation of integrin subunit beta 4 (ITGB4) and the use of atorvastatin was reported to alleviate the glutamine-induced EndMT, offering potential new therapeutic approaches for MMD.

Other Sciences news

	Data-driven music: Converting climate measurements into music A geo-environmental scientist from Japan has composed a string quartet using sonified climate data. The 6-minute-long composition—titled "String Quartet No. 1 "Polar Energy Budget"—is based on over 30 years of satellite-collected climate data from the Arctic and Antarctic and aims to garner attention on how climate is driven by the input and output of energy at the poles.
	Training of brain processes makes reading more efficient A team of researchers from the University of Cologne and the University of Würzburg have found in training studies that the distinction between known and unknown words can be trained and leads to more efficient reading. Recognizing words is necessary to understand the meaning of a text. When we read, we move our eyes very efficiently and quickly from word to word.
	Mind the gender gap: Study finds London police least trusted by women Across all England's regions, a study appearing in the journal Policing & Society spotlights London's Metropolitan Police as the area where women trust the least.
	First evidence of ancient human occupation found in giant lava tube cave in Saudi Arabia If you look from above, you can see thousands of stone structures dotting the landscape of the Arabian peninsula. On the ground, you can find a bounty of stone tools and ancient fireplaces scattered along the edges of ancient lakes, as well as rock art depicting hunting and herding scenes in the surrounding mountains.
	Why being humble can make you a better leader When we consider how leaders get to the top, we might think of somebody like Jordan Belfort, the millionaire stockbroker portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio in the Wolf of Wall Street. And humility is probably not the word that comes to mind.
	Analysis shows lone actors more likely to commit terrorist acts than US extremist groups Extremist groups like the Ku Klux Klan and the Proud Boys have long been an ugly undercurrent of American culture. But despite these groups' hateful rhetoric, their ranks have largely refrained from committing violent acts over the past three decades, according to research conducted by Andrew Vitek, associate teaching professor of political science and director of the Department of Political Science's counterterrorism option at Penn State.
	The effects of climate variability on children's migration and childcare practices in sub-Saharan Africa Shifting weather caused by climate change, especially drought and heat, is linked to a rise in the number of children being raised outside of their biological parents' households in sub-Saharan Africa, according to a study led by researchers at Penn State. The findings highlight the effects climate change may have on children and social support systems, researchers said, a question that has received relatively little attention from researchers and the policy community.
	CEOs' human concern translates into higher stock price, says study Compassionate leadership has tangible benefits: CEOs' expressions of empathy correlate with positive stock performance, a study led by the University of Zurich shows. The researchers analyzed data from conference calls between CEOs and financial analysts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper is published in the journal Academy of Management Discoveries.
	Study finds that providing housing and support benefits homeless Being supported to find a home and then receiving ongoing specialized support services are the key combination in significantly improving the well-being of people who have experienced homelessness, researchers say.
	Stars vs. numbers: How consumers perceive online rating formats Mathematically speaking, scoring 3.5 out of 5 is the same as receiving three and a half stars on a five-star scale. But visually speaking, the numbers don't add up.
	Study presents new perspective on morality based on nuances in values among different political ideologies While social psychology has long been interested in learning more about how one's moral values relate to one's political views, most of the research to date has used quite the same perspective.
	Bike Bus gains supporters as a way to promote sustainable and safe mobility The Bike Bus movement has emerged as a powerful tool to promote road safety, sustainability and community. According to a global survey carried out by the Institute of Environmental Science and Technology of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (ICTA-UAB), the phenomenon has gained momentum globally in recent years, with more than 470 Bike Bus routes worldwide, transporting 32,000 children to school every week.
	No, getting your boyfriend to peel an orange won't prove his loyalty—why TikTok relationship 'tests' are useless Have you ever wondered if your partner really loves you? Well apparently so have thousands of TikTok users, who are testing their theories for the world to see.
	Social media for sex education: South African teens explain how it would help them Most teenagers dread talking about sex with their parents. Their parents feel the same way. In some societies it's considered taboo to even broach the subject. And, even where sexuality education is taught at schools, research has shown that effective communication between young people and teachers is hindered because of age differences and, in some places, because of the societal taboos.
	'They don't have enough'—schools in England are running food banks for families The peak of the cost-of-living crisis may have passed, but millions of families are struggling to buy enough food to feed their children. Experiencing food insecurity can be deeply damaging for children and negatively affects their achievement at school.

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