Science News for April 17, 2022

Can machine learning help predict disease spread?

A new KAUST study uses machine learning to predict disease spread with high accuracy, dynamically incorporating latest data without human bias. This approach offers a promising alternative to conventional models, providing a more accurate story of the underlying epidemic data.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 17, 2022

Assistant Professor Wang Yicheng's collaborative paper published in Review of Economic Dynamics

A collaborative paper by Wang Yicheng and colleagues finds that households reduce risky shares of assets when income risk doubles, with potential social welfare gains of 4% if policies stabilize income risk. The study also examines the effect of progressive income tax systems on financial portfolio choices.

SourcePeking University·JournalReview of Economic Dynamics·DateApr 17, 2022

NTU Singapore scientists uncover key cellular mechanism that shows saturated fat can worsen diabetes

Researchers at NTU Singapore's Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine found that saturated fatty acids degrade protein FIT2, leading to insulin-producing cells' loss of function and death. This impairs the body's ability to secrete enough insulin, resulting in diabetes.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 17, 2022