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American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)


Uncovering “Blockbuster T cells” in the gut wins NOSTER & Science Microbiome Prize

Researchers have identified a novel type of T cell that can recognize and respond to multiple bacterial strains in the gut. This breakthrough finding has significant implications for treating diseases such as cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. The discovery was made by Kazuki Nagashima, winner of the NOSTER & Science Microbiome Prize.

In two separate clinical studies, combined immunotherapy approach enhances cancer patient response

Researchers found that adding JAK inhibitors to cancer checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapies improves patients' responses in two separate clinical studies. The combination therapy resulted in better clinical responses in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and those with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma.

Antimalarial compounds show promise to relieve polycystic ovary syndrome

A study found that plant-derived artemisinins suppress ovarian androgen production in multiple rodent models and human patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The compounds, such as artemether, induce CYP11A1 degradation by targeting the protease LONP1, leading to reduced PCOS biomarkers and improved menstrual cycles.

JWST uncovers features of very-low-mass star’s protoplanetary disk that influence planet composition

The James Webb Space Telescope has found a carbon-rich chemistry with 13 carbon-bearing molecules in the protoplanetary disk surrounding ISO-ChaI 147, a young 0.11-solar-mass star. This high carbon/oxygen ratio suggests radial transport of material within the disk, potentially affecting planet composition.

Widespread use of high-assay low-enriched uranium raises significant nuclear security concerns

The widespread adoption of high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) threatens the international system of controls preventing nuclear weapons proliferation for over 30 years. HALEU's high enrichment levels pose significant security risks, making it possible for a single reactor to contain enough material for a nuclear weapon.

Studied on social media: The real-world impacts of factual but misleading content & the characteristics of “supersharers”

A new study reveals that unflagged, factual but misleading vaccine content is 46 times more effective at driving vaccine hesitancy on Facebook. Meanwhile, a second study identifies supersharers on Twitter as responsible for spreading 80% of fake news during the 2020 US presidential election.

Military physicians give high-ranking military patients preferential treatment over lower-ranking patients

A new study found that military physicians provide better treatment to high-ranking patients than lower-ranking ones, with more effort and resources allocated to those above their rank. This highlights the existing power dynamic between doctors and patients in the US Military Health System, favoring the physician's discretion.

Presenting a safer, low-cost, and low-energy whole-body magnetic resonance imaging device

A new study presents a safer, low-cost, and low-energy whole-body magnetic resonance imaging device that operates on standard wall power outlets without RF shielding. The device produces clear and detailed imaging comparable to high-power MRI devices, addressing unmet clinical needs in diverse healthcare settings worldwide.

Circadian clocks in the brain and muscles coordinate to support daily muscle function

A new study reveals that coordinated brain-muscle communication is crucial for maintaining healthy daily physiology and preventing age-related muscle dysfunction. By restoring clock function in both brain and skeletal muscle tissue, researchers found that this brain-muscle interaction plays a key role in supporting daily muscle function.

*FREE* Friendship-nomination approach identifies key villagers to diffuse health messages

Researchers developed a new approach to identify influential individuals in social networks, enabling targeted information spreading. This method leverages the 'friendship paradox' and was shown to be more effective than random targeting, with potential far-reaching policy implications for public health interventions.

*FREE* The effectiveness of early childhood education programs is scientifically uncertain

Recent studies suggest early childhood education programs may not produce long-term positive outcomes for disadvantaged children, contrary to previous assumptions. The American Association for the Advancement of Science review highlights critical gaps in understanding that must be addressed to develop effective ECE programs.