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Science X Newsletter Tue, Apr 2

Dear ,

Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for April 2, 2024:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

Spain's giant hail event worsened by marine heat waves, study finds

Astronomers find 10 new millisecond pulsars in globular cluster Terzan 5

Study unveils a new family of quantum anomalous Hall insulators

Exploring the factors that influence people's ability to detect lies online

100 kilometers of quantum-encrypted transfer

'Zombie neurons' shed light on how the brain learns

New research reveals that chickens were widely raised across southern Central Asia from 400 BCE

Scientists link certain gut bacteria to lower heart disease risk

Gene analysis generates spatial map of intestinal cells and traces their trajectories during gut inflammation

Infant gut microbes have their own circadian rhythm: Study finds diet has little impact on how the microbiome assembles

Wound treatment hydrogel infused with amino acid kills bacteria naturally and promotes cell growth

World's most powerful MRI scans first images of human brain

Study finds triple-negative breast cancer tumors with increased immune cells have lower risk of recurrence after surgery

Study finds AI empowers patients before and after seeing physicians for radiation oncology treatment

New insights into how tumors on adrenal glands develop

Physics news

Study unveils a new family of quantum anomalous Hall insulators

In recent years, physicists and material scientists have identified various new materials marked by interesting properties and quantum effects. These materials could prove highly valuable both as platforms to study quantum effects and for the development of new quantum computing devices.

100 kilometers of quantum-encrypted transfer

Researchers at DTU have successfully distributed a quantum-secure key using a method called continuous variable quantum key distribution (CV QKD). The researchers have managed to make the method work over a record 100 km distance—the longest distance ever achieved using the CV QKD method. The advantage of the method is that it can be applied to the existing Internet infrastructure.

Physicist create new method to systematically determine efficient search strategies

Researchers at TU Darmstadt have now presented an approach in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) that can be used to systematically determine efficient search strategies. It could help to intelligently design tasks such as the search for cancer cells or environmental rehabilitations in the future.

Physicists create new method to systematically determine efficient search strategies

Researchers at TU Darmstadt have now presented an approach in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) that can be used to systematically determine efficient search strategies. It could help to intelligently design tasks such as the search for cancer cells or environmental rehabilitations in the future.

Researchers discover dual topological phases in an intrinsic monolayer crystal

Dual topological phases have been discovered in an intrinsic monolayer crystal, a finding that reveals new and unique rule-bending properties in a quantum material, an international team of scientists led by Boston College physicists reported recently in the online version of the journal Nature.

Researchers use smartphone screen to create 3D layered holographic images

Researchers have developed a 3D full-color display method that uses a smartphone screen rather than a laser to create holographic images. With further development, the new approach could be useful for augmented or virtual reality displays.

Classical optical neural network exhibits 'quantum speedup'

In recent years, artificial intelligence technologies, especially machine learning algorithms, have made great strides. These technologies have enabled unprecedented efficiency in tasks such as image recognition, natural language generation and processing, and object detection, but such outstanding functionality requires substantial computational power as a foundation.

Focusing ultra-intense lasers to a single wavelength

Ultra-intense ultrashort lasers are powerful tools used in various fields like physics, national security, industry, and health care. They help researchers delve into strong-field laser physics, laser-driven radiation sources, particle acceleration, and more.

Transmitting entanglement between light and matter in the metropolitan network of Barcelona

As the efforts towards the realization of powerful quantum computers and quantum simulators continue, there is a parallel program aimed at attaining the quantum analog to the classical internet.

A return to roots: Lab builds its first stellarator in 50 years and opens the door for research into new plasma physics

For the first time, scientists have built a fusion experiment using permanent magnets, a technique that could show a simple way to build future devices for less cost and allow researchers to test new concepts for future fusion power plants.

A single photon emitter deterministically coupled to a topological corner state

Exploring cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED) is pivotal for advancing quantum technology and unraveling the fundamental intricacies of light-matter interactions. A prevalent strategy involves integrating a single quantum emitter into photonic microcavities boasting high-quality (Q) factors or small mode volumes. The strength of the coupling in cQED is often assessed using the Purcell factor, a vital parameter.

Using one single image to realize on-orbit calibration of space camera lens distortion

In various space tasks such as space rendezvous-docking and on-orbit maintenance, the measurement of the relative posture and position of non-cooperative spacecraft is a key component. However, the commonly used global positioning system, radar detection systems and laser scanners are not suitable for certain special space tasks as they are large, heavy, complex and expensive.

Understanding flow and sound through large-scale computations

In a research collaboration between the group of Professor Hiroshi Yokoyama of the Department of Mechanical Engineering and KOBE STEEL, LTD., flow, and acoustic fields in an expanding pipe with orifice plates were studied using a computational methodology developed by Prof. Yokoyama's group. The flow fields, including the various vortical structures and generated acoustic fields, were explained for the first time.

Earth news

Spain's giant hail event worsened by marine heat waves, study finds

Hail is a semi-frequent visitor to winter, and occasionally summer, seasons across the globe and tends to pass by in a short but sharp downpour that can often be overlooked. However, sometimes these meteorological phenomena are hard to ignore. This was the case on 30 August 2022, when Gerona, north-eastern Spain, experienced a severe event in which individual hailstones reached a massive 12cm—the largest ever documented in the country. This led to serious damage to buildings, cars and agricultural areas, as well as 67 injuries and one fatality.

A new estimate of US soil organic carbon to improve Earth system models

Soil contains about twice as much carbon as the atmosphere and plants combined. It is a major carbon sink, capable of absorbing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it releases. Management of soil carbon is key in efforts to mitigate climate change, in addition to being vital to soil health and agricultural productivity.

Sediment discovery unlocks Australia's hidden net-zero resource potential

A new method of measuring sediment thickness across Australia's interior offers a cost-effective and straightforward solution for estimating seismic hazard and resource potential while reducing carbon footprint, according to the largest study of its kind from The Australian National University (ANU), published in the Geophysical Journal International.

Australia on track for unprecedented decades-long megadroughts, finds modeling study

Australia could soon see megadroughts that last for more than 20 years, according to new modeling from The Australian National University (ANU) and the ARC Center of Excellence for Climate Extremes.

Why we need to rethink what we know about dust

You may think of dust as an annoyance to be vacuumed and disposed of, but actually, on a grander scale, it is far more important than most people realize. Globally, dust plays a critical role in regulating our climate, radiation balance, nutrient cycles, soil formation, air quality and even human health.

Ocean forests: How 'floating' mangroves could provide a broad range of ecological and social benefits

The 2022 report "The State of the World's Mangroves" estimates that since 1996, 5,245 square kilometers of mangroves have been lost due to human activities such as agriculture, logging, tourism development, coastal aquaculture and climate change, and that only 147,000 km2 remain. It is a well-known fact that mangrove forests are among the most productive marine ecosystems in the world, located at the very start of the marine food web (the productivity of biomass by plants is called primary productivity). They serve as a natural nursery for fish and also provide protection against coastal erosion.

South Australian coastal dunes are on the march

Coastal transgressive dunefields are on the march in South Australia—retreating inland from an angry ocean at an alarming rate. Yet while this occurs in plain sight, communities are largely oblivious to long-term coastal changes, and Flinders University's Professor Patrick Hesp, strategic professor of coastal studies at Flinders University's College of Science and Engineering, is concerned this is all happening in a geological blink of the eye.

From data to decisions: AI and IoT for earthquake prediction

The study of earthquakes remains a main interest worldwide as it is one of the least predictable natural disasters. In a new review published in Artificial Intelligence in Geosciences, a team of researchers from France and Turkey explored the role of conventional tools like seismometers and GPS in understanding earthquakes and their aftermath.

Scientists' urgent call: End destruction and forge a just, sustainable future

An international team of scientists has published a study in PNAS Nexus, emphasizing the urgent need to align political will, economic resources, and societal values to ensure a more sustainable and equitable world. Led by University of Hawai'i at Mānoa researchers, the 18 authors combine their expertise in Earth and ocean sciences, politics, law, public health, renewable energy, geography, communications, and ethnic studies to assess causes, impacts, and solutions to a multitude of worldwide crises.

Hundreds of Philippine schools suspend classes over heat danger

Hundreds of schools in the Philippines, including dozens in the capital Manila, suspended in-person classes on Tuesday due to dangerous levels of heat, education officials said.

Astronomy and Space news

Astronomers find 10 new millisecond pulsars in globular cluster Terzan 5

Using the MeerKAT radio telescope, an international team of astronomers has detected 10 new millisecond pulsars in a Galactic globular cluster known as Terzan 5. The finding, which makes Terzan 5 the most pulsar-rich globular cluster, was reported in a research paper published March 26 on the pre-print server arXiv.

New research uses coaxial 'dish' antenna to scan for dark matter

One of the great mysteries of modern science is dark matter. We know dark matter exists thanks to its effects on other objects in the cosmos, but we have never been able to directly see it. And it's no minor thing—currently, scientists think it makes up about 85% of all the mass in the universe.

What to know about next week's total solar eclipse in the US, Mexico and Canada

North America is on the verge of another masking of the sun.

Totality ready: US braces for April 8 solar eclipse frenzy

US communities along the path of the April 8 total solar eclipse are preparing for the year's biggest astronomic event, with millions of visitors expected to brighten local economies—and snarl up logistics.

Where are all these rogue planets coming from?

There's a population of planets that drifts through space untethered to any stars. They're called rogue planets or free-floating planets (FFPs.) Some FFPs form as loners, never having enjoyed the company of a star. But most are ejected from solar systems somehow, and there are different ways that can happen.

Looking to photograph a solar eclipse with your smartphone? Try these features and think about creative angles

As the moon casts its shadow across the Earth during the upcoming solar eclipse, cameras of all kinds will turn skyward. While professional photographers with specialized equipment will aim to capture the perfect shot, others will reach for their smartphones to immortalize this moment.

Not in the path of totality? You can still watch Monday's total solar eclipse online

If you're nowhere near the path of totality or if clouds spoil your view, you can still catch the total solar eclipse online.

A total eclipse, with a partial failure: Scientific expeditions don't always go as planned

For centuries, astronomers have realized that total solar eclipses offer a valuable scientific opportunity. During what's called totality, the opaque moon completely hides the bright photosphere of the sun—its thin surface layer that emits most of the sun's light. An eclipse allows astronomers to study the sun's colorful outer atmosphere and its delicate extended corona, ordinarily invisible in the dazzling light of the photosphere.

Scientists use NASA data to predict solar corona before eclipse

Our sun, like many stars, is adorned with a crown. It's called a corona (Latin for "crown" or "wreath") and consists of long, thread-like strands of plasma billowing out from the sun's surface. The powerful magnetic field of the sun defines these strands, causing them to ripple and evolve their structures constantly. The strands are faint, however, so the only way to observe the corona with the naked eye is during a total solar eclipse.

Citizen scientists invited to collect data for NASA during eclipse

On April 8, 2024, as the moon passes between the sun and Earth, thousands of amateur citizen scientists will measure air temperatures and snap pictures of clouds. The data they collect will aid researchers who are investigating how the sun influences climates in different environments.

Solar Orbiter prepared for 'worst-case scenario'

The ESA/NASA Solar Orbiter is approaching the closest point to the sun in its current orbit. It is an important time for the mission's science activities, and the mission control team at ESA is constantly preparing for any possible problems the spacecraft might face as it swoops past our active and unpredictable star.

Surprising facts and beliefs about eclipses from the medieval and Renaissance eras

In medieval and Renaissance society and culture, celestial events were not mere spectacles in the sky. Rather, they were omens, predictors of the future, and windows into the workings of the universe.

That starry night sky? It's full of eclipses

Our star, the sun, on occasion joins forces with the moon to offer us Earthlings a spectacular solar eclipse—like the one that will be visible to parts of the United States, Mexico, and Canada on April 8.

Technology news

Butterfly-inspired AI technology takes flight

When it comes to mating, two things matter for Heliconius butterflies: the look and the smell of their potential partner. The black and orange butterflies have incredibly small brains, yet they must process both sensory inputs at the same time—which is more than current artificial intelligence (AI) technologies can achieve without significant energy consumption.

Semi-transparent camera allows for eye tracking without obstructing the view

A team of engineers at The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology's ICFO–Institut de Ciències Fotòniques has developed a nearly transparent camera that can be used for eye tracking without obstructing the view. The team has published a paper describing their camera and its performance as an eye tracker on the arXiv preprint server.

Researchers build selenium–silicon tandem solar cell that could improve efficiency to 40%

A team of physicists and engineers at Technical University of Denmark reports that it is possible to build a working selenium–silicon tandem solar cell, a combination that could theoretically improve the efficiency of solar cells to 40%. The study is published in the journal PRX Energy.

New robot swims and jumps like a Chinese rice grasshopper

Biologist, materials scientist and bionics specialist Professor Stanislav N. Gorb and his team at Kiel University's Institute of Zoology are known for analyzing the spectacular abilities of animals and translating them into innovative technical applications. For example, they created robot grab arms based on the model of insects and a detachable adhesive film that works in a similar manner to the adhesive organs of insects, spiders and geckos.

New materials discovered for safe, high-performance solid-state lithium-ion batteries

Scientists have discovered a stable and highly conductive lithium-ion conductor for use as solid electrolytes for solid-state lithium-ion batteries.

Chemistry researchers modify solar technology to produce a less harmful greenhouse gas

Researchers in the UNC-Chapel Hill Chemistry Department are using semiconductors to harvest and convert the sun's energy into high-energy compounds that have the potential to produce environmentally friendly fuels.

Study: AI writing, illustration emits hundreds of times less carbon than humans

With the evolution of artificial intelligence comes a discussion of the technology's environmental impact. A study has found that for the tasks of writing and illustrating, AI emits hundreds of times less carbon than humans performing the same tasks. That does not mean, however, that AI can or should replace human writers and illustrators, the study's authors argue.

Building blocks for greener energy: Reconfigurable elastic metasurface components akin to LEGO

Energy harvesting, an eco-friendly technology, extends beyond solar and wind power in generating electricity from unused or discarded energy in daily life, including vibrations generated by passing car engines or trains. Recent intriguing research aims to enhance the efficiency of energy harvesting using a new type of metasurface that can be reconfigured, resembling the assembly of LEGO bricks.

Sunrise to sunset, a new window coating blocks heat, not view

Windows welcome light into interior spaces, but they also bring in unwanted heat. A new window coating blocks heat-generating ultraviolet and infrared light and lets through visible light, regardless of the sun's angle. The coating can be incorporated onto existing windows or automobiles and can reduce air-conditioning cooling costs by more than one-third in hot climates.

Wristband uses echoes and AI to track hand positions for VR and more

Cornell researchers have developed a wristband device that continuously detects hand positioning—as well as objects the hand interacts with—using AI-powered, inaudible soundwaves.

A photonic feature extractor for broadband radio-frequency signals

In intelligent sensing fields such as radar, machine vision and medical imaging, the critical information used for decision-making is often sparse. For example, a monosyllabic waveform requires thousands of sampling points, but contains only a few bits of information.

Tesla sales tumble nearly 9%, most in 4 years, as competition heats up and demand for EVs slows

Tesla sales fell sharply last quarter as competition increased worldwide, electric vehicle sales growth slowed, and price cuts failed to lure more buyers.

Engineers and OpenAI recommend ways to evaluate large language models for cybersecurity applications

Carnegie Mellon University's Software Engineering Institute (SEI) and OpenAI published a white paper that found that large language models (LLMs) could be an asset for cybersecurity professionals, but should be evaluated using real and complex scenarios to better understand the technology's capabilities and risks. LLMs underlie today's generative artificial intelligence (AI) platforms, such as Google's Gemini, Microsoft's Bing AI, and ChatGPT, released in November 2022 by OpenAI.

Undersea cables are the unseen backbone of the global internet

Have you ever wondered how an email sent from New York arrives in Sydney in mere seconds, or how you can video chat with someone on the other side of the globe with barely a hint of delay? Behind these everyday miracles lies an unseen, sprawling web of undersea cables, quietly powering the instant global communications that people have come to rely on.

Browsing in incognito mode doesn't protect you as much as you might think

Although a private browsing mode known as "Incognito" in Google's widely used Chrome browser has been available for nearly a decade, a legal settlement involving the way it works has casting new attention on this commonly available setting.

Amazon is removing Just Walk Out technology from its Fresh grocery stores in the US

Amazon is removing Just Walk Out technology from its Amazon Fresh stores as part of an effort to revamp the grocery chain.

AI can take over key management roles in scientific research, shows study

New research from ESMT Berlin shows how AI can manage human participants in large-scale research projects, taking over functions such as task allocation, coordination, and motivation.

A coastal community provides valuable insights about home heating, energy use, and the future power grid

There may be few better real-life laboratories in the United States than Cordova, Alaska, to evaluate the challenges and benefits of transitioning to new, cleaner methods of home heating in a colder climate.

Roll embossing: New system improves production of bipolar plates

Climate-friendly fuel cell systems, which are set to power vehicles in the future, are still rare and expensive these days. There are several reasons for this, including the complex and costly process used to produce bipolar plates—a key component in electrolyzers and fuel cells, which are needed for many hydrogen systems.

Health data storage has a climate cost. In the future, data may be stored in DNA

A lot of energy is required to analyze and store large amounts of data. We may therefore have to take a different approach to data storage in the future, so says Professor Søren Brunak at the University of Copenhagen.

A helmet with a vibration sensor for excavator drivers

Fraunhofer researchers have developed a helmet with an integrated acceleration sensor for drivers of construction vehicles. The helmet sensor measures harmful vibrations that affect the body. The software analyzes the sensor signals and shows the stress on the affected person. This allows corresponding relief measures to be taken. A flexible piezo-electret film serves as the sensor. A demonstration model for the Flexeras project will be presented at the joint Fraunhofer booth at the Hannover Messe (April 22–26, 2024, Hall 2, Booth B24).

Research team creates biofilm-resistant glass for marine environments

A group of researchers led by University of Massachusetts Amherst engineers have created ultraviolet (UV) rays-emitting glass that can reduce 98% of biofilm from growing on surfaces in underwater environments, as reported in the journal Biofilm.

In the elastocaloric cooling process, a refrigerator cools by flexing artificial muscles

There is room for just one small bottle in the world's first refrigerator that is cooled with artificial muscles made of nitinol, a nickel-titanium alloy. But the mini-prototype that the team led by professors Stefan Seelecke and Paul Motzki will be presenting at the Hannover Messe from 22 to 26 April is groundbreaking: It shows that elastocalorics is becoming a viable solution for practical applications. This climate-friendly cooling and heating technology is far more energy-efficient and sustainable than current methods.

An eco-friendly process for removing odorous VOCs in industries

A research team has developed a green technology for eliminating odorous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and their by-products, such as residual ozone and formaldehyde.

Swan song for General Electric as it completes demerger

The US conglomerate General Electric, co-founded more than 130 years ago by Thomas Edison, is opening a new chapter in its history on Tuesday: its break-up into three independent entities which will then concentrate on their disparate core businesses.

AI in workplace settings: A hands-on experience

Allaying anxieties, emphasizing potential—with their KI-Studios (AI Studios), experts from the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO are bringing workplace artificial intelligence to life. Their KI-Infomobil (AI Infomobile) will be appearing at the Hannover Messe from April 22 to 26. Guests are welcome to visit Fraunhofer at Booth B24 in Hall 2 to learn how AI technologies work, where they can be used, and how they can make people's work easier.

Miranda Lambert, Billie Eilish, Nicki Minaj submit letter to AI developers to honor artists' rights

Stevie Wonder, Miranda Lambert, Billie Eilish, Nicki Minaj, Peter Frampton, Katy Perry, Smokey Robinson and J Balvin are just some of the over 200 names featured on a new open letter submitted by the Artist Rights Alliance non-profit, calling on artificial intelligence tech companies, developers, platforms, digital music services and platforms to stop using AI "to infringe upon and devalue the rights of human artists," according to the letter.

A hybrid data-driven framework considering feature extraction for battery state of health estimation and life prediction

A paper proposing a hybrid data-driven framework considering feature extraction for battery state of health estimation and remaining useful life prediction was published in Green Energy and Intelligent Transportation.

Chemistry news

Wound treatment hydrogel infused with amino acid kills bacteria naturally and promotes cell growth

Hydrogels are popular for use in skin ailments and tissue engineering. These polymer-based biocompatible materials are useful for their abilities to retain water, deliver drugs into wounds, and biodegrade. However, they are complicated to manufacture and not very resilient to external forces like rubbing against clothing, sheets, or wound dressings. They are also not inherently able to battle bacterial infections, so they are often infused with antimicrobial drugs or metal ions, which can cause antibiotic resistance and negative effects on cell growth.

Researchers investigate the surface extraction of platinum catalysts in alkaline media

Platinum (Pt) electrodes are crucial for clean power technologies like hydrogen fuel cells and electrolysis. However, the surface oxidation that occurs during such processes degrades catalyst performance and stability.

Researchers publish first-of-its-kind database for uranium minerals

Nuclear nonproliferation scientists at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory have published the Compendium of Uranium Raman and Infrared Experimental Spectra, or CURIES, a public database and analysis of structure-spectral relationships for uranium minerals. This first-of-its-kind dataset and corresponding analysis fill a key gap in the existing body of knowledge for mineralogists and actinide scientists.

Researchers synthesize new compounds within living cells using light

Plants harness chlorophyll to capture sunlight and kickstart photosynthesis, a crucial process on our planet that converts luminous energy into chemical fuel while producing oxygen. This pivotal chemical energy is subsequently utilized by plants, algae, and select bacteria to metabolize carbon dioxide and water into sugars.

Unlocking membrane-based He/H₂ separation with AI

Technological advancement and data proliferation have deemed artificial intelligence (AI)-driven innovation as a growth opportunity for the development of breakthrough materials for special applications, especially in the field of gas separation. One of the main challenges associated with this process is the extremely close kinetic diameters of the two gas molecules, resulting in low membrane selectivity.

Biology news

Hair from tiger thought to be extinct found by conservationist on Java

A team of environmentalists and zoologists affiliated with several institutions in Indonesia has confirmed that a tiger species once thought extinct is still living on the island of Java. In their study, published in the journal Oryx, the group conducted a DNA analysis of a hair found by a conservationist on a plantation on the island.

Novel method uses nanomechanics and machine learning for rapid bacterial viability detection

Prof. Guo Shifeng's team at the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has proposed a novel method that fills the gap between physical measurement and artificial intelligence in bacterial viability detection. The study was published in Cell Reports Physical Science.

Researchers find unusual heat resilience in tree swallows

Tree swallows use behavioral and physiological mechanisms to handle rising temperatures, and their story is an optimistic example of how some species successfully respond to climate change, at least for now.

Ancient trees help to protect an endangered species

The oldest trees in the forest help to prevent the disappearance of endangered species in the natural environment, according to a study led by the University of Barcelona. This is the case of the wolf lichen—threatened throughout Europe—which now finds refuge in the oldest trees in the high mountains of the Pyrenees.

Temple bones in the skulls of dinosaurs and humans alike were formed by feeding habits, study suggests

Whether human or reptile, in the skull of most terrestrial vertebrates there is a gaping hole in the temple; in the case of most reptiles, there are two. Scientists have been looking for explanations for this for 150 years.

NOAA researchers discover new fish species

Dr. Katherine Bemis of NOAA Fisheries' National Systematics Laboratory and her collaborators recently described a new fish species: Emmelichthys papillatus, or the papillated redbait. Its discovery was published in the journal ZooKeys.

Botanists analyze the role of pollinators in the evolution of flowers with various sexual forms

Researchers Violeta Simón, Marcial Escudero and Juan Arroyo, from the Department of Botany at the Faculty of Biology of the University of Seville, in collaboration with researchers from four other countries, led a study in which they demonstrate Darwin's hypothesis of precise pollination across all angiosperms (flowering plants). The research is published in the journal Nature Communications.

Researchers explain how green algae and bacteria together contribute to climate protection

A research team at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany has now found a bacterium that forms a team with a green alga. Both microorganisms support each other in their growth. Additionally, the bacterium helps the microalga to neutralize the toxin of another, harmful bacterium. The fundamental understanding of algal-bacterial interactions also plays an important role in climate protection, as it can help to understand and thus protect this ecologically important partnership.

Researchers discover corn reduces arsenic toxicity in soil

When crops grow in arsenic-contaminated soil, this toxic element accumulates in the food chain. A study involving the University of Basel has now discovered a mechanism used by corn plants to reduce arsenic uptake: the key factor is a special substance released into the soil by the roots.

Research shows animals can live alongside humans by being experts at judging risk

New research suggests animals can thrive in human-dominated environments by being expert judges of risk. Alexis Breen from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, and Dominik Deffner from the Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin, examined the behavior of great-tailed grackles, a bird species that has successfully invaded much of urban North America.

Molecular biology technique allows for discovery of novel targets for candidate vaccines against schistosomiasis

Researchers in Brazil have used an innovative technique in molecular biology to identify targets for candidate vaccines against Schistosoma mansoni, the parasite that causes schistosomiasis.

How AI and deeper roots can help soil store more carbon

In 2020, global agricultural emissions were 16 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (an increase of 9% since the year 2000) and globally, the 2020 farm gate emission represented nearly half of total agricultural emissions, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

These plants evolved in Florida millions of years ago. They may be gone in decades.

Scrub mints are among the most endangered plants you've probably never heard of. More than half of the 24 species currently known to exist are considered threatened or endangered at the state or federal level, and nearly all scrub mints grow in areas that are being rapidly developed or converted to agricultural pastures.

'Unheard of in structural biology': New enzyme models reveal disease insights

When nucleic acids like DNA or RNA build up in a cell's cytoplasm, it sets off an alarm call for the immune system. Enzymes usually clear these nucleic acids before they cause an issue, but when these enzymes don't work and the immune system gets called in, it can lead to autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

Brown bear numbers grow in Pyrenees: France

The population of brown bears in the Pyrenees mountains, which had been threatened with extinction, keeps growing, French authorities said Tuesday.

Rattlesnakes on California's Santa Catalina Island have learned that it pays to be unusually aggressive

Discerning what makes rattlesnakes tick is a life's work for researchers like William Hayes. So if he wants to introduce you to the biological complexity that makes them worthy of study, be prepared to follow a deliberately cautious route climbing over boulders and stepping over logs.

Landscape corridors can aid in fire ant spread, but the effects are transient

As habitat loss and fragmentation continues, many in the scientific community view landscape corridors as important for connecting habitat fragments to maintain biodiversity.

Variable rates of flatback turtles hatching on Western Australia's Pilbara beaches

Climate change will impact the emergence success and sex ratio of flatback turtle hatchlings in the Pilbara region of Western Australia within the next two decades, according to a new study.

Hundreds of animals were rescued after the Black Summer bushfires, but how many actually survived?

The horrific Black Summer bushfires of 2019–20 burned more than 8 million hectares of vegetation across southeastern Australia. An estimated 3 billion animals were caught in the fire zone.

Scientist explores sufficiency as an overlooked strategy for protecting biodiversity

A study from the Technical University in Berlin suggests "sufficiency" should be a more prominent strategy for protecting biodiversity.

After 10 years of work, landmark study reveals new 'tree of life' for all birds living today

The largest-ever study of bird genomes has produced a remarkably clear picture of the bird family tree. Published in the journal Nature today, our study shows that most of the modern groups of birds first appeared within 5 million years after the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Tracking the virus behind India's lumpy skin cattle crisis

In May 2022, cattle across India began dying of a mysterious illness. Since then, about 1,00,000 cows have lost their lives to a devastating outbreak of what scientists have identified as lumpy skin disease. The outbreak has severely affected India's agricultural sector, leading to staggering economic losses.

Myrtle rust is lethal to Australian plants. Could citizen scientists help track its spread?

Every weekend, thousands of citizen scientists head into the great outdoors. If they see an unusual animal, plant or fungi, they take a photo and upload it.

Catkins are flowering at different times, threatening their pollination and the wildlife that feed on them

As the days grow longer and the air warms up, nature is bursting back to life. Even before their leaves return, trees produce delicate, fuzzy structures known as catkins. These tiny, downy threads, often described as kitten tails (thanks to a fun translation from Dutch to English back in 1578), herald the arrival of spring.

AI makes smarter use of seaweed and kelp

Seaweed and kelp are eaten by both humans and domestic animals all over the world. Several species are used in everything from cosmetics and food additives to fertilizers and medicines.

Scientists gain insight into a buzzing spring pollinator that plays a significant role in the almond industry

The USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS), in collaboration with the Ecological Forestry Applications Research Centre in Spain and North Dakota State University, have conducted a comparison of the physiological and molecular processes involved in the summer and winter dormancy of Osmia lignaria, also known as blue orchard bee or orchard mason bee.

New deep learning model predicts water and energy demands in agriculture with great accuracy

Water scarcity and the high cost of energy represent the main problems for irrigation communities, which manage water for this end, making it available to agriculture.

Researchers develop early horse osteoarthritis detection tool

Researchers introduced a straightforward questionnaire to help horse owners identify and monitor signs of osteoarthritis pain in their equine companions. This initiative aims to facilitate earlier and more effective treatment, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for horses.

It's snake bite season in Georgia. What you need to know

With spring in full swing and everyone spending more time outdoors, one thing we should all be looking out for is snakes. More specifically, the venomous variety.

Medicine and Health news

Exploring the factors that influence people's ability to detect lies online

The internet has given rise to new forms of deceit and misinformation, including phishing attacks, romance scams and fake news. While many psychological studies have investigated the factors that influence people's ability to tell if others are lying in person, lie detection online has seldomly been explored.

'Zombie neurons' shed light on how the brain learns

Nestled at the back of your head, the cerebellum is a brain structure that plays a pivotal role in how we learn, adapting our actions based on past experiences. Yet the precise ways in which this learning happens are still being defined.

Scientists link certain gut bacteria to lower heart disease risk

Changes in the gut microbiome have been implicated in a range of diseases including type 2 diabetes, obesity, and inflammatory bowel disease. Now, a team of researchers at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard along with Massachusetts General Hospital has found that microbes in the gut may affect cardiovascular disease as well.

Gene analysis generates spatial map of intestinal cells and traces their trajectories during gut inflammation

Cells within the intestines perform various roles including nutrient absorption, sensing, and maintaining homeostasis. Certain chronic disorders are distinctly characterized by gut inflammation, which disrupts intestinal cells and can lead to a remodeling of the gut and the introduction of new immune cells.

Infant gut microbes have their own circadian rhythm: Study finds diet has little impact on how the microbiome assembles

Infant gut microbiomes oscillate with a circadian rhythm, even when they are cultivated outside of the body. Researchers report in the journal Cell Host & Microbe that the rhythm is detectable as early as two weeks after birth but becomes more pronounced with age. The finding comes from a randomized controlled trial that also showed that diet has less impact on the development and composition of the infant microbiome than previously thought.

World's most powerful MRI scans first images of human brain

The world's most powerful MRI scanner has delivered its first images of human brains, reaching a new level of precision that is hoped will shed more light on our mysterious minds—and the illnesses that haunt them.

Study finds triple-negative breast cancer tumors with increased immune cells have lower risk of recurrence after surgery

A new multicenter, international study suggests that people who have early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and high levels of immune cells within their tumors may have a lower risk of recurrence and better survival rates even when not treated with chemotherapy. The study was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).

Study finds AI empowers patients before and after seeing physicians for radiation oncology treatment

Cancer patients about to undergo radiation oncology treatment have lots of questions. Could ChatGPT be the best way to get answers?

New insights into how tumors on adrenal glands develop

Researchers from Kyushu University's Faculty of Medical Sciences report on new insights into the mechanisms of how adrenal gland tumors are formed. The team identified a new type of tumor cell population that they termed "steroids-producing nodules" or SPNs, which exhibits the unique characteristic of producing two different hormones. Specific structures in SPNs were found to lead to cortisol-producing adenomas, or CPAs, noncancerous tumors that produce excessive cortisol.

Researchers discover new links between cellular-waste removal and the development of Parkinson's

Although Parkinson's disease has been recognized for more than 100 years, no treatments can slow or halt the disease's progress, let alone cure it. One of the major factors underlying this lack of progress is our relatively poor understanding of how the disease develops.

Ultrasound therapy shows promise as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease

University of Queensland researchers have found targeting amyloid plaque in the brain is not essential for ultrasound to deliver cognitive improvement in neurodegenerative disorders.

YKT6 gene variants cause a new neurological disorder, finds study

A recent collaborative study has discovered rare variants in the YKT6 gene as the cause of a new neurological disorder characterized by developmental delays along with severe progressive liver disease and a potential risk for liver cancer.

Researchers discover protective 'acid wall' formed by cancer cells

Cancer cells release a significantly more concentrated level of acid than previously known, forming an "acid wall" that could deter immune cells from attacking tumors, UT Southwestern Medical Center scientists show in a new study.

Scientists reveal adipocytes' metabolic role and identify treatment targets

Recent research underscores the critical role of adipocytes in storing fat, vital for organismal survival. Dysfunctional adipocytes can lead to metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease, highlighting the importance of understanding lipid storage mechanisms.

New study seeks hereditary causes of childhood cancer

Follow-up and treatment of children with cancer is significantly improved when inherited genetic causes are also investigated, according to a new Swedish study. The results of the research involving some 50 researchers and clinicians from across Sweden have been published in The Lancet Regional Health - Europe.

Novel compound AC102 restores hearing in preclinical models of sudden hearing loss

A single application of the novel compound AC102 almost completely restores noise-induced hearing loss in preclinical models. This is the key finding of a recent publication in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences by the Berlin-based start-up AudioCure Pharma.

Early cortical remyelination has a neuroprotective effect in multiple sclerosis, study shows

Multiple sclerosis is a heterogeneous disease whose manifestations vary considerably from patient to patient and whose course appears, on the surface, unpredictable. Hence, it is crucial to identify the factors that drive disability progression.

New study maps a group of rare genetic diseases for the first time

Behind the term ectodermal dysplasia lies a wide range of genetic disorders that can have a major impact on patients' lives and quality of life. Some cannot sweat, others are born with missing or cone-shaped teeth, while others have very little hair, skeletal deformities, or abnormal nails. A total of 49 diagnoses fall under the term, but until now, we have not had an overview of how many Danes actually suffer from an ectodermal dysplasia disorder.

Investigators develop novel treatment for T-cell leukemias and lymphomas

A novel treatment for leukemias and lymphomas that arise from immune system T cells, developed by investigators at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center and its Ludwig Center and Lustgarten Laboratory, was found to be effective at killing these cancers in mice bearing human T-cell tumors.

New method allows miniature robots and surgical instruments to achieve precise localization inside the body

In the medicine of the future, tiny robots will navigate independently through tissue and medical instruments will indicate their position inside the body during surgery. Both require doctors to be able to localize and control the devices precisely and in real time.

New insights into aggressive breast cancer and potential treatment options

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is difficult to treat due to its aggressive nature and resistance to chemotherapy. Exciting research published by the University of Southern Denmark sheds light on the mechanisms that drive this resistance and gives hope for better treatment for patients in the future.

Simulations reveal mechanism behind protein buildup in Parkinson's disease

Researchers have used computational models to understand what drives the accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein, a key culprit in the development of Parkinson's disease.

New report presents a global plan to combat prostate cancer

Annual prostate cancer cases worldwide are projected to double by the year 2040, and annual deaths are projected to increase by 85% to almost 700,000 over the same timeframe—mainly among men in low- and middle-income countries. A commissioned report published in The Lancet highlights the future landscape of prostate cancer and seeks to guide cancer experts worldwide on how to manage the massive influx of prostate cancer patients projected over the next two decades.

Far-UVC light can virtually eliminate airborne virus in an occupied room, study shows

Far-UVC light is a promising new technology for reducing airborne virus levels in occupied indoor spaces, but its effectiveness has not been evaluated in real-life scenarios.

AI's ability to detect tumor cells could be key to more accurate bone cancer prognoses

Researchers at Kyushu University have developed and validated a machine-learning model that can accurately evaluate the density of surviving tumor cells after treatment in pathological images of osteosarcoma—the most prevalent malignant bone tumor. The model can assess how individual tumor cells respond to treatment and can predict overall patient prognosis more reliably than conventional methods.

Majority of people with heart disease consume too much sodium, research finds

Individuals with heart disease stand to gain the most from a low-sodium diet but, on average, consume over twice the recommended daily sodium intake, according to a study being presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session.

Study shows heart health declines rapidly after menopause

A woman's cardiovascular risk can rise sharply after she goes through menopause, quickly catching up to men of a similar age and health profile, according to new findings presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session. Researchers said the study underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing early warning signs of heart disease risk in women as they lose the protective effects of estrogen after menopause.

Mapping heart health: AI illuminates neighborhood impact on well-being

Is the view from your doorstep mostly trees and sky or buildings and grass? The answer could influence your cardiovascular health, according to a study presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session. Using an analysis of Google Street View images powered by machine learning, researchers found people living in surroundings rich in sidewalks, trees and clear sky saw a significantly lower risk of major adverse cardiac events.

Study links e-cigarette use with higher risk of heart failure

People who use e-cigarettes are significantly more likely to develop heart failure compared with those who have never used them, according to one of the largest prospective studies to date investigating possible links between vaping and heart failure. The findings are being presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session.

Increasing positive affect in adolescence could lead to improved health and well-being in adulthood

Adolescents with high positive affect may have improved physical and mental health as adults, according to a study published April 2nd in the open-access journal PLOS Medicine by Eric Kim and Renae Wilkinson from Harvard University, US, and colleagues.

Minimally invasive procedure may spare patients from thyroid surgery

In a 10-center study, microwave ablation offered progression-free survival rates and fewer complications than surgery in the treatment of a form of thyroid cancer known as papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), according to research published in Radiology.

One in five people with cancer participate in medical research studies

Researchers from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and peer institutions released new findings in the Journal of Clinical Oncology showing that when all types of cancer research studies are considered, at least one in five people with cancer, or 21.9%, participate in some form of clinical research.

Gut bacteria that strongly influence obesity are different in men and women, study finds

New research being presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in Venice, Italy (12–15 May) identifies changes in the composition of gut bacteria that may play a key role in the onset and development of obesity, with differences in men and women, which might affect the metabolism of different nutrients and therefore the presence of bioactive molecules in the gut that influence the development of metabolic disease.

Model predicts need for bone marrow sampling in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance

A recently developed multivariable model can accurately predict smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) or worse in persons with presumed monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), according to a study published online April 2 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Playtime, being social helps a dog's aging brain, study finds

As their aging brains shrink, older dogs can suffer the same memory and thinking problems as many older humans do.

One-third of Americans don't know vision risks from solar eclipse, survey finds

A total eclipse of the sun is coming up next week, and many folks don't know that watching it unprotected can cause permanent eye damage, a new survey finds.

More women are drinking themselves sick: The Biden administration is concerned

When Karla Adkins looked in the rear-view mirror of her car one morning nearly 10 years ago, she noticed the whites of her eyes had turned yellow.

Researchers recommend update of dental antibiotic guidelines to protect high-risk heart patients

Research led by the University of Sheffield found that dental patients at high risk of infective endocarditis, a life-threatening infection, should be given antibiotics before undergoing invasive dental treatment.

The rise of Ozempic: How surprise discoveries and lizard venom led to a new class of weight-loss drugs

Every now and then, scientists develop treatments that end up being even more popular for another condition entirely. Think of Viagra, originally for high blood pressure, now used for erectile dysfunction. Or thalidomide, a dangerous morning sickness treatment that is now a valuable cancer treatment.

Opinion: Person-centered health care means ensuring that affected communities are leaders and partners in research

Studies show that people often do not have opportunities to engage in health-related decision-making with their health-care providers.

Pancreas cells in people who have died show significant signs of stress

People with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin shots to regulate their blood sugar levels. This is because their immune system kills beta cells found in islets in the pancreas. Beta cells release and disburse insulin to cells throughout the body. Insulin is needed to break down sugar.

Non-invasive screening tools may miss heart failure for certain patients and should be used with caution, warns study

Existing non-invasive screening tools may miss heart failure among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and should be used with caution, according to recent research.

New study finds mental health emergencies in kids were more severe during the pandemic

A new study has found that during the pandemic pediatric emergency departments (EDs) saw more children and adolescents who needed a psychiatric admission, as well as an increase in severe conditions, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorders.

Soluble immune checkpoint factors in blood as potential biomarkers of therapeutic efficacy for ICI cancer immunotherapy

Cancer is a prevalent disorder where cells divide and grow uncontrollably and eventually spread to other regions or organs in the body. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a highly prevalent form of lung cancer. Current therapeutic strategies against NSCLC involve the administration of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as they provide significant clinical benefits for patients with NSCLC.

Heart rate zones aren't a perfect measure of exercise intensity, but getting your heart pumping is still important

Aerobic exercise like jogging, biking, swimming or hiking is a fundamental way to maintain cardiovascular and overall health. The intensity of aerobic exercise is important to determine how much time you should spend training in order to reap its benefits.

Considering taking a weight-loss drug like Ozempic? Here are some potential risks and benefits

After weight-loss drugs like Ozempic exploded onto the market, celebrities and social media influencers were quick to spruik their benefits, leading to their rapid rise in use. In the last three months of 2022, clinicians in the United States alone wrote more than nine million prescriptions for these drugs.

Teen behavior, as explained by a neuroscientist

Teenagers are known for their sometimes-unpredictable behavior. One moment they're mature and clear-thinking, and the next they're irrational or engaging in risky behavior. Neurologically speaking, they can't help it, though that's probably of little comfort to parents' frayed nerves. Still, it might help to understand that scientists theorize that three interconnected processes of adolescent brain development are the culprit.

Study suggests lung cancer does not decrease in line with reduced smoking

Despite the fact that the number of people who smoke has decreased very sharply in Sweden, the number of cases of lung cancer in the population is not decreasing as much as expected. Among women, lung cancer has, in fact, increased. This is shown in a new study published in European Journal of Public Health from Umeå University, Sweden. The study means that the view of how long smoking affects health may change.

Hospice care for those with dementia falls far short of meeting people's needs at the end of life, says physician

Jimmy Carter, who chose to forgo aggressive medical care for complications of cancer and frailty in February 2023, recently reached his one-year anniversary since enrolling in hospice care. During this time, he celebrated his 99th birthday, received tributes far and wide and stood by the side of his beloved wife, Rosalynn, who died in November 2023.

Silent cancers: Here's what you need to know when there are no obvious symptoms

The recent revelations about the Princess of Wales's cancer diagnosis highlight a crucial aspect of cancer detection—the disease's sometimes silent nature.

New study could reduce risk of social isolation for older people with hearing loss

The stages of descent into social isolation experienced by older people with hearing loss have been set out for the first time in a new study led by a researcher at the University of Stirling.

From lab to legislation: How research shapes health policies in Latin America

Health literacy and education are pivotal for shaping effective health policies, yet the integration of research findings into policy-making processes remains a challenge. Prior studies indicate a disconnect between academic research and its practical policy implications, underscoring the need for enhanced communication and collaboration between researchers and policy-makers.

Bariatric arterial embolization safe, effective in patients with severe obesity

Bariatric arterial embolization (BAE) is feasible, effective, and well tolerated among patients with severe obesity, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the Society of Interventional Radiology, held from March 23 to 28 in Salt Lake City.

Anxiety, depression associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease

Anxiety and depression are associated with an increased incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), according to a study published online March 19 in Scientific Reports.

Biosimilar biologics do not always reduce out-of-pocket costs

Biosimilar competition is not consistently associated with lower out-of-pocket (OOP) costs for commercially insured outpatients, according to a study published online March 29 in JAMA Health Forum.

Study underlines role of past injustices in medical mistrust

Black Americans living in Tuskegee, Alabama, closer to the location of the infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study, were much slower to get their COVID-19 vaccines compared to white neighbors, according to a new study by University of Georgia researchers.

New insights into muscle health: How innervation influences the recovery process

Researchers from Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) in Jena and BTU (Cottbus) have identified the cause of changes in the behavior of muscle stem cells. The insights are the basis for more effective treatment of injuries and muscle diseases in the future, especially in the elderly.

Will your old measles shot protect you from new outbreaks?

Public health officials are warning people about the danger of remaining unvaccinated against measles as the number of cases so far this year has surpassed the caseload for 2023.

Early detection of language disorders helps children obtain right interventions, researchers find

New screening tools in child health care are effective in identifying early language and communication difficulties in children. This is shown by two studies based on more than 6,000 children carried out by researchers at Uppsala University in cooperation with Region Gotland.

Study examines perceptions of benefits and risks of data sharing in dementia research

Expectations for data sharing among scientists and returning research results to study subjects have evolved in recent years. A new study led by a Georgia State University researcher underscores potential barriers to sharing data related to a relatively rare form of dementia known as frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD).

Blended antioxidant supplement found to improve cognition and memory in aged mice

Age-related decline in cognitive and muscle function continues to be a significant challenge for the field of health care. Health care costs associated with treating age-related cognitive decline and muscle weakness are expected to increase substantially in the future. One of the primary underlying mechanisms responsible for age-related health decline is oxidative stress, which refers to the progressive damage inflicted by oxygen-free radicals on cells.

Combining food taxes and subsidies can lead to healthier grocery purchases for low-income households

A new study that models the combined effects of a sugar-based tax on beverages and targeted subsidies for minimally processed foods and drinks has found that under these policies, low-income consumers would purchase fewer sugar-sweetened beverages and more fruits, vegetables, and healthier drinks, particularly in households without children.

Las Vegas mass shooting survivors continue to struggle with major depression, PTSD

Four years after a gunman killed 60 people and physically injured 867 more during the Oct. 1, 2017 Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas, witnesses and survivors of the tragic incident still struggled with their mental health, according to a new study led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC).

Irregular sleep and late bedtimes associated with worse grades for high school students

Irregular sleep and late bedtimes are linked to worse grades and more school-related behavioral problems among teens, suggests a recent study. The authors stated that interventions to promote regular sleep schedules may boost adolescents' academic performance.

Lightweight, head-mounted microscope unveils brain oxygenation in freely moving mice

The brain consumes approximately 25% of the body's oxygen to fuel its neural activities, underscoring the importance of sufficient oxygen supply for maintaining normal cognitive operations. Consequently, monitoring cerebral oxygen levels is pivotal in assessing neurological health, identifying potential brain injuries, and enhancing patient outcomes in critical care settings.

Trust your doctor: Study shows human medical professionals are more reliable than artificial intelligence tools

When looking for medical information, people can use web search engines or large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT-4 or Google Bard. However, these artificial intelligence (AI) tools have their limitations and can sometimes generate incorrect advice or instructions. A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine assesses the accuracy and reliability of AI-generated advice against established medical standards and finds that LLMs are not trustworthy enough to replace human medical professionals just yet.

Want to cut US heart risks? Get more people into primary care, study suggests

When someone has a heart attack or a stroke, specialized care can give them the best chance of surviving.

Q&A: How do you know when you're done with therapy?

Therapy can be a critical tool for taking care of your mental health. Finding the right therapist can take time, but patients can go to therapy for years and still see benefits, which raises the question: When is the right time to stop therapy?

Novel pre-clinical models help advance therapeutic development for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections

The A*STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A*STAR ID Labs) and the Hackensack Meridian Health Center for Discovery and Innovation have teamed up to shed light on a concerning health issue—infections caused by a type of bacteria known as Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp).

Stressful events in midlife might be a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease in older ages

Stressful experiences in midlife or during childhood may be associated with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and neuroinflammation, respectively. This is one of the conclusions of a study published in Annals of Neurology and led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), a center supported by the "la Caixa" Foundation, in collaboration with the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), research center of the Pasqual Maragall Foundation.

Why don't we stick to home physiotherapy exercises?

The lack of persistence in home physiotherapy exercises is a well-known problem hindering the effectiveness of treatment. It is especially evident in vestibular rehabilitation (exercises to treat dizziness and balance problems).

Mechanical constraints guide spatial pattern of glioblastoma cancer stem cells

A recent study has discovered the function of mechanical constraints in glioblastoma. This study led by Prof. Chen from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at New York University explored the underlying mechanotransductive machinery involved in the mechanical constraints-mediated emergence and spatial patterning of CSCs in GBM.

Existing drugs may hinder the development of bone metastasis in breast cancer patients

Researchers at Tel Aviv University developed a new therapeutic strategy based on existing medications to inhibit bone metastasis in breast cancer patients. Using both an animal model and tissue samples from patients in Israel and the US, they demonstrated that a combination of drugs already available on the market can hinder bone metastasis and improve survival.

Dogs may provide new insights into human aging and cognition

The quest to understand intelligence and unravel the workings of the mind has always been considered the holy grail of natural sciences. While we're still uncovering many mysteries, animals can provide valuable insights into the origins and organization of both mind and intellect.

Double trouble: The risks of mixing alcohol and sports wagering

It turns out that money isn't the only thing sports gamblers are risking. According to a new study, bettors who wager on sporting events, esports, and daily fantasy sports are much more likely than other individuals to binge drink.

Abortions are legal in much of Africa. But few women may be aware, and providers don't advertise it

When Efua, a 25-year-old fashion designer and single mother in Ghana, became pregnant last year, she sought an abortion at a health clinic but worried the procedure might be illegal. Health workers assured her abortions were lawful under certain conditions in the West African country, but Efua said she was still nervous.

Japan health supplements tied to 157 hospitalizations

Japanese dietary supplements at the center of an expanding health scare have now been linked to at least 157 hospitalizations, a health ministry official said Tuesday.

Abortion rights amendment can be on the ballot: Florida Supreme Court

Florida's Supreme Court on Monday paved the way for a ban on abortion after just six weeks of pregnancy, even as it allowed an abortion rights amendment to be on the ballot in November.

Walk this way—it's quite good for you

Walking is sometimes equated with simplicity itself. If your task is a "walk in the park," it might require little more than baby steps to get things moving.

Women's health researchers explore pregnancy and postpartum muscle strength

A decade-long partnership between the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) has yielded significant advancements in global research and scholarship, particularly in women's health.

Enhancing newborn genetic screening via prenatal carrier screening

Newborn genetic screening (NBGS) seeks to assist in the early identification of newborns at risk for severe genetic disorders. The integration of genomics into newborn screening represents a significant advancement, enhancing disease detection while reducing false positive rates. However, sharing results about genetic carriers is a delicate balance between sharing important information and not causing unnecessary worry for families.

Other Sciences news

New research reveals that chickens were widely raised across southern Central Asia from 400 BCE

Chickens are one of the most economically important animals in the world today. However, the story of their origins and dispersal across the ancient world is still poorly understood. In fact, new archaeological techniques have recently led to the recognition that many finds of bones previously thought to represent early chickens in fact belonged to wild birds.

Characterizing social networks by the company they keep

People tend to connect with others who are like them. Alumni from the same alma mater are more likely to collaborate on a research project together, or individuals with the same political beliefs are more likely to join the same political parties, attend rallies, and engage in online discussions.

All-cash home buyers pay 10% less than mortgage buyers, study finds

Owning a home has long been considered a crucial way to build wealth, but making such a purchase has become increasingly difficult for many residents. In addition to steep housing prices and high interest rates, there have been a growing number of all-cash buyers who can close a deal quickly, beating out competing offers from buyers who need to finance their home with a mortgage.

Researchers: The legal system must show more compassion to survivors of sexual abuse

In May 2018, several men drugged, kidnapped and assaulted a woman named Carrie Low in a trailer outside Halifax. Low reported the incident to police and a specialized nurse completed a sexual assault exam. The police only collected her clothes as evidence 10 days after the assault. They never went to the crime scene and were not responsive when Low pressed for updates. She has been fighting for justice ever since.

Age as an overlooked factor in higher education DEI initiatives

As universities around the world strive to cultivate diverse and equitable communities, a recent study from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis highlights the necessity of recognizing age as a fundamental dimension of diversity.

Report provides up-close look at pro-democracy conservatives

Pro-democracy conservatives appreciate diverse political ideas, value journalism, and trust institutions including elections, according to a new report that defines this quiet but potentially powerful movement.

Raising the minimum wage? Study using US tax data finds more gain than pain

Most independent businesses can shoulder the added costs of higher minimum wages with new revenues, making only minor employment adjustments, according to new research from the University of Michigan and Carnegie Mellon University.

Witchcraft trials in Norway ended in the 18th century, according to research

In the 16th and 17th centuries, there was a widespread witch hunt against people accused of witchcraft. In Norway, approximately 750 people were accused of witchcraft and around 300 of them sentenced to death, many of them burned at the stake, and many of them Sámi.

Companies ignoring climate risks get punished by markets, new study reveals

A pioneering study from the University of Florida has quantified corporations' exposure to climate change risks like hurricanes, wildfires, and climate-related regulations and the extent to which climate risks are priced into their market valuations. The research also exposes a costly divide—companies that proactively manage climate risks fare much better than those that ignore the threats.

Can life at sea teach us to live in a more meaningful way?

Life on board a tall ship can be cramped, cold and demanding, but according to one researcher, it also sheds light on what gives life purpose and meaning.

Forensic Scientometrics—an emerging discipline to protect the scholarly record

A new field of forensics is being proposed by research integrity experts to recognize their investigations into unscrupulous research behavior and misuse of scholarship: Forensic Scientometrics.

School board social media lawsuits: For too long, we've sought individual solutions to a collective problem

Four of the largest school boards in Canada are suing the companies behind popular social media apps Instagram and Facebook, Snapchat and TikTok. According to the Ontario boards, students are "experiencing an attention, learning and mental health crisis because of prolific and compulsive use of social media products."

Viewpoint: Fossil fuel subsidies cost Canadians a lot more money than the carbon tax

The federal carbon tax increase is now in effect, and will raise gas prices by three cents per liter in most Canadian provinces.

How can Australia solve the math teacher shortage? It can start by training more existing teachers to teach math

Imagine if you enrolled your child in swimming lessons but instead of a qualified swimming instructor, they were taught freestyle technique by a soccer coach.

Why kretek—'no ordinary cigarette'—thrives in Indonesia

During their 10-minute walk to school in Malang, a city in East Java, Indonesia, where Marina Welker was conducting research in 2015–16, her children passed dozens of cigarette advertisements attached to small shops and food stalls—nearly 120 round trip.

Landmark advances in employment reframe the outlook for people with disabilities in post-pandemic era

A recent commentary published in The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine highlights the unprecedented upward trend in employment for people with disabilities, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic's economic recovery phase.

Tourism planning as a social practice in times of change and uncertainty: Views from a troubled Latin American country

Given the limited capabilities within the public sector, tourism planning consultants play a crucial role in public policy efforts in Ecuador.


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