Chinese researchers at Beijing Normal University developed multifunctional composite phase change materials (PCMs) to enhance electronic devices' temperature regulation, solar-thermal conversion, and microwave absorption. The neural network-inspired aerogel-based composite PCMs improve thermal management and microwave absorption efficiency. Solar-thermal conversion efficiency exceeds 95%, with a thermal storage capacity of 122.19 J/g. The study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Federal Reserve Chair Powell's recent testimony suggests no rate cuts in the near future due to sticky inflation. Wall Street and Main Street are concerned about the impact of higher rates. Historically, high rates can be positive for growth. Economists debate the Fed's influence on the economy, with calls for gradual rate normalization. Public debt has surged, with interest payments set to exceed $800 billion. GDP growth remains strong.

NASA's Electrodynamic Dust Shield (EDS) technology aims to combat lunar dust's threat to spacecraft and astronauts. EDS, developed since 2004, uses electrodes and electric fields to remove dust from various surfaces. Tested successfully in space in 2019, EDS will be part of Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost Mission 1 in 2024, aiding future Artemis missions. EDS is crucial for space applications due to the unique challenges posed by lunar dust.

Scientists have developed realistic colon organoids in the lab, mimicking full-size organs, to study colorectal cancer. These minicolons, grown from mouse stem cells, offer a more accurate model for disease research. By activating cancer-driving genes, tumors were successfully induced in the organoids, providing a detailed view of tumor development and potential drug testing. Future plans include creating human-derived organoids for more relevant cancer research.

A New Jersey woman received a pig kidney and a heart pump in groundbreaking surgeries at NYU Langone Health. Lisa Pisano is the second person to get a pig kidney, showing promising results. The procedure aims to address the organ shortage crisis. The FDA granted emergency permission for the surgeries, which could pave the way for future xenotransplant trials. The success of Pisano and another patient will influence FDA decisions on such procedures.

Eric Daigle, a student, discovered vulnerabilities in the iSharing app, exposing 35 million users' precise locations, names, and contact details. The bugs allowed unauthorized access to location data. Daigle notified iSharing, prompting a fix. The company plans to enhance security measures. Daigle confirmed the fix before TechCrunch published the story. iSharing attributed the issue to a feature oversight. Daigle intends to continue researching location-tracking and stalkerware.

Neoplants launched Neo Px, a bioengineered house plant that can clean 30 times more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than a typical plant. The plant, paired with a custom bacterium, costs $139 and requires monthly Power Drops. Neoplants conducted independent testing to prove effectiveness. The company aims to expand its eco-friendly products beyond indoor air purification. VOCs pose health risks, and Neoplants' innovation offers a sustainable solution.

EUMETSAT's Meteosat satellites monitor Europe, Africa, and the Indian Ocean. Earth Day, celebrated on April 22 since 1970, promotes environmental protection. The 2024 theme is "Planet vs. Plastics," aiming for a 60% reduction in global plastic production by 2040.

Immunization has saved 154 million lives in 50 years, with 146 million being children under five. The measles vaccine alone saved 94 million lives. Global infant deaths decreased by 40%, more than halving in Africa. Despite successes, 67 million children missed vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO stresses the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks. Gavi has helped protect over a billion children.

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is increasing globally. By 2050, half the population may need corrective lenses, up from 23% in 2000. In the U.S., annual spending on myopia-related expenses could reach US$7.2 billion. Factors contributing to this epidemic include increased near work activities and reduced time spent outdoors. Spending time outside and limiting near work can help prevent myopia progression.

FT Editor Roula Khalaf highlights SEC's push for over $5bn in fines from Terraform Labs and co-founder Do Kwon for fraud. Terraform Labs collapsed in 2022, causing a crisis in the digital assets market. Kwon faces extradition battles and criminal charges. Former Binance CEO Zhao faces three years in prison and a $50mn fine for money laundering charges. Binance agreed to pay over $4.3bn in penalties.

The European Parliament approved the "due diligence" directive with 374 votes, requiring firms to prevent adverse impacts on human rights and the environment. It applies to EU companies with over 1000 employees and a worldwide turnover higher than 450 million euro. Firms failing to comply face fines up to 5% of their net worldwide turnover. The directive aims to make businesses more sustainable and accountable.

The Global Report on Food Crises 2024 reveals that over one in five people in 59 countries faced acute food insecurity in 2023, up from one in 10 in 2016. COVID-19 worsened the situation, with one in five people facing food insecurity in 55 countries in 2023. Concerns are raised for Gaza and Sudan, with fears of famine and high levels of acute malnutrition. Sudan had 20.3 million people facing emergency food insecurity in 2023.

Japan's moon lander, SLIM, survived a third lunar night, with temperatures dropping to -170°C (-274°F). It landed on Jan. 20, making Japan the fifth country to land a probe on the moon. Despite challenges, SLIM's key functions are operational. JAXA plans to monitor its condition closely. The probe aims to test landing technology and gather geological data. NASA also restored contact with Voyager 1 recently.

Indus Appstore, owned by PhonePe, introduced voice search in 10 Indian languages to reach 75% of local language speakers online. They plan to cover 95% with 2 more languages. The feature uses AI and ML for accuracy. It aims to boost app installs and improve user experience. The appstore competes with Google Play Store in India and aims to be inclusive and accessible.

Sheikh Umer Farooq from Karachi developed Boltay Huroof software to provide affordable Braille books for the visually impaired in Pakistan, where over two million are blind. The software includes science and technology books and aims to improve education accessibility. Farooq's company also collaborates with banks to provide banking documents in Braille. The software's future plans include creating property documents in Braille to promote inclusive education.

Researchers developed a cost-effective cancer detection method using DSS and NPELDI-MS, aiming to reduce missed diagnoses in impoverished countries. The technique can lower undetected cases by 20-55%, with a detection limit of 0.1 μM. Ferric nanoparticles enhance metabolite adsorption, improving desorption efficiency. The method is rapid, environmentally friendly, and precise, showing promise for large-scale cancer screening.

Millions saw income boosts in April with benefits and state pension increases. Inflation dropped to 3.2% in April. Absolute poverty rose for two consecutive years, with nearly a million more in poverty in 2022/23. The Household Support Fund was extended for 6 months. Benefits like Universal Credit and state pension are paid as usual, with some payment date adjustments for May bank holidays. Energy price cap dropped to £1,690 in April.

Vaccines are crucial for protecting children from diseases. Key vaccines include MMR for measles, mumps, rubella; polio to prevent paralysis; DTaP for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis; Hib for severe infections; and Hepatitis B to prevent liver diseases. Timely vaccination is vital for community health. Global efforts have nearly eradicated polio. Administering these vaccines saves lives and builds healthier communities.

The Senate passed a bill requiring the sale of TikTok by ByteDance due to national security concerns over Chinese ties. The law gives 270 days for the sale, extendable to a year. Legal challenges and resistance from Beijing are expected, with uncertainty over potential buyers due to the high price tag. President Biden is likely to sign the bill into law soon.

The United States and Russia are at odds over nuclear weapons in space at the UN Security Council. The US-drafted resolution aims to prevent an arms race in outer space. Russia is expected to block it. The 1967 Outer Space Treaty prohibits placing nuclear weapons in Earth's orbit. Russia and China plan to propose an amendment banning all weapons in outer space. The resolution needs nine votes and no vetoes to pass.

Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a new chemical tool to study how signals like dopamine and epinephrine interact with neurons via G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). This tool enables detailed visualization of GPCR-related signals across the entire brain with high spatial resolution, offering insights into neuronal signaling and drug targeting. The tool marks cells with a permanent fluorescent signal, facilitating the study of signal pathways at a cellular level.

In 2001, Chinese-Australian scientist Shi Zhengrong kickstarted China's solar panel industry, leading to global dominance. Now, Australia aims to revive its solar manufacturing with Chinese collaboration. The $1 billion Solar Sunshot program seeks to boost local production. SunDrive, a Sydney-based start-up, plans to revolutionize solar cells. However, without government support, Australia risks losing out to countries like the US in the solar manufacturing race.

Tesla previewed its ridehailing app in its latest earnings report, with CEO Elon Musk announcing the unveiling of a robotaxi in August. The app features a Summon button, climate control settings, and music selection. Musk has long discussed the concept of a Tesla robotaxi, part of the "Tesla Network" allowing owners to earn income. The robotaxi will be "purpose built" for autonomous driving.

The Federal Trade Commission issued a final rule banning noncompetes nationwide to promote competition and protect workers' freedom. The rule is expected to increase new business formation by 2.7% annually, create over 8,500 new businesses yearly, raise average worker earnings by $524 per year, reduce healthcare costs by up to $194 billion over a decade, and lead to 17,000 to 29,000 more patents annually.

The U.S. Justice Department settled with over 100 people for $138.7 million over mishandling sexual assault allegations against Larry Nassar. Combined with other settlements, $1 billion has been allocated to compensate hundreds of women. FBI's inaction allowed Nassar to continue abusing victims. Michigan State University, USA Gymnastics, and the U.S. Olympic Committee settled for $880 million. Survivors, including Olympians, received apologies for the failures. Accountability was long overdue.

Summary: Beta rhythms (14-30 Hz) play a crucial role in cognitive control by regulating gamma waves in the brain. Understanding beta bursts is key to diagnosing and treating cognitive disorders like ADHD, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s. Research shows beta bursts are quick, powerful, and can propagate across long distances in the brain, aiding in cognitive therapies. Further exploration of beta rhythms is essential for advancing brain function models and treatments.

NASA's Artemis 3 aims to land on the moon's south pole in 2026. Fortnite introduces "Lunar Horizons," a simulation in partnership with ESA and Hassell, where players gather resources for the ESA Lunar Habitat. The game offers an immersive experience of a future lunar mission. ESA astronauts tested the game. Players can access "Lunar Horizons" using a specific code or by searching in-game.

Columbia University's president, Nemat Shafik, faced intense scrutiny over antisemitism on campus. Pro-Palestinian student demonstrators occupied the lawn, adding to the crisis. Shafik set up a command center near the White House to address the situation. The ensuing 24 hours of deliberations led to a campus crisis over free speech and safety, reminiscent of 1968, impacting campuses nationwide during a challenging academic year.

Amazon introduces a $9.99/month grocery delivery subscription for Prime members, offering one-hour delivery and 30-minute pickups in 3,500 US cities. It includes Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh items, as well as products from local grocers. A $4.99 fee applies, with a discounted option for low-income non-Prime members. The service aims to assist SNAP participants who face challenges accessing groceries.

On April 23, the sun emitted four solar flares simultaneously, captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory. These "super-sympathetic" eruptions involved three sunspots and one magnetic filament, potentially leading to Earth-directed coronal mass ejections. If these impact Earth, they could disrupt power grids, communication networks, satellites, and pose radiation risks to astronauts. The event hints at nearing solar maximum or entering the decay phase of the solar cycle.

Global electric vehicle sales are projected to reach 17 million in 2024, with half of all cars sold globally expected to be electric by 2035. The International Energy Agency emphasizes the importance of affordability and charging infrastructure for continued growth. Despite recent price cuts by manufacturers like Tesla and Li Auto, the EV market is on an upward trajectory, particularly in China and Europe.

Microsoft introduced Phi-3-mini, a small language AI model for tasks like content creation, using less data. It outperforms larger models in language, coding, and math benchmarks. Phi-3 is ideal for businesses with limited resources, offering capabilities like summarizing documents and extracting insights. Available on Azure, Hugging Face, and Ollama, Phi-3-mini aims to simplify AI usage. Microsoft recently invested $1.5 billion in G42 and partners with Mistral AI.

Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine developed tARC-seq, a new technology, to calculate SARS-CoV-2's mutation rate. The study in Nature Microbiology revealed mutation hotspots in the spike protein RNA, aiding in understanding the virus's evolution. tARC-seq detected rare mutations in low-abundance samples, showing higher-than-expected mutation rates. This technology helps monitor viral evolution, crucial for pandemic surveillance and vaccine development.

Federal, transportation, and union leaders initiated the construction of a $12 billion high-speed rail line connecting Las Vegas and Los Angeles. The project, led by Brightline West, will span 218 miles and reach speeds of 180 mph, cutting travel time to slightly over two hours. The initiative aims to create thousands of union jobs, reduce emissions, and alleviate traffic congestion for the estimated 16 million annual travelers between the two cities.

NASA's Advanced Composite Solar Sail System, led by Ames Research Center, will launch a CubeSat from New Zealand on April 23. The sail, measuring over 800 square feet, will use sunlight for propulsion in space. Successful deployment will pave the way for missions to the Moon and Mars. The spacecraft will demonstrate orbit maneuvers visible from Earth. Media can contact NASA Ames for interviews. Launch updates available on NASA's platforms.

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic are using AI to study how gut microbiome metabolites interact with cellular receptors, potentially influencing Alzheimer’s disease. Their study analyzed over 1.09 million metabolite-receptor interactions, identifying protective effects of agmatine on Alzheimer’s-affected neurons. This research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer’s and other diseases influenced by gut microbiome interactions. The study was supported by NIH grants.

A Yale-led study found that neomycin, an over-the-counter antibiotic, delivered nasally, can prevent/treat respiratory viral infections in animals and trigger an immune response in humans. Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the research led by Akiko Iwasaki and Charles Dela Cruz showed promising results against COVID-19 and influenza. Neomycin treatment in mice and humans demonstrated effectiveness in combating viruses.

Meta announced that third-party device makers can now use the Meta Horizon OS, offering technologies like tracking and passthrough. Asus, Lenovo, and Xbox are the first to develop devices running the system. Microsoft and Meta are collaborating on a limited-edition Meta Quest inspired by Xbox. Asus focuses on gaming, Lenovo on productivity. The Meta Horizon Store is open to third-party developers for creating mixed-reality experiences amid the VR/AR headset competition.

Antarctic sea ice extent has been shrinking in summer, with record lows in recent years. In February 2023, it hit a minimum of 737,000 sq mi. By 2024, it reached another near-record low of 766,400 sq mi. Scientists are alarmed by this "regime shift" and its global impacts. Declining sea ice affects ecosystems, ocean circulation, and could trigger irreversible tipping points. Urgent CO2 emission cuts are crucial.

Malaria cases rose to 249 million in 2022, with Africa bearing 94% of cases and 95% of deaths. The RTS,S vaccine, targeting children under 5, prevented 30% from severe malaria. Rollout began in Cameroon in 2024. The R21/Matrix M vaccine, with 75% efficacy, is cost-effective and easier to produce. WHO approved it in 2023, and it's set to roll out in Africa from May 2024.

Israeli military intelligence chief Maj. Gen. Aharon Haliva resigned over the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, the deadliest in Israel's history, killing 1,200 and taking 250 hostages. The attack led to a seven-month war. Haliva cited intelligence failures in his resignation letter. The war has claimed over 34,000 Palestinian lives, with 80% of Gaza's population displaced. The attack has also caused a humanitarian crisis and unrest in the region.

Apple is set to introduce AI features in iOS 18, accessible offline and on-device, showcased at the June developer conference. The company has heavily invested in AI technologies, including on-device large language models (LLMs) like Ajax in iOS 17.4. While not as powerful as server-based models, Apple aims to leverage its platform's vertical integration for optimal performance. Reports suggest potential collaboration with Google's Gemini for generative AI tasks.

Turkish scientists discovered microplastics in brain cells, raising concerns about their potential link to diseases like Alzheimer's, MS, stroke, and cerebral hemorrhage. The study by Emrah Celtikci and Sedat Gundogdu was featured in a Canadian documentary and published in The New York Times, highlighting the urgent need for further research.

Guangdong province in China faces severe flooding, with rivers at dangerous levels affecting over 127 million people. Emergency plans are in place as rare water spikes occur. Heavy rain and winds have caused evacuations, power outages, and damage to infrastructure. Hydrological stations show alarming data, with 27 on alert. Neighboring Guangxi also experiences extreme weather, with landslides and rescues underway.

The 2020s are proving to be challenging for the global economy, resembling the difficulties of the 1930s. The IMF slightly raised its global growth forecast, noting less severe scarring from the pandemic. Concerns over potential conflicts in the Middle East loom. Inflation pressures are causing central banks like the US and UK to reconsider interest rate cuts. The IMF also revised up Russia's growth forecast. Globalization is shifting towards protectionism.

Scientists warn that the next pandemic might be caused by Disease X or a strain of influenza virus. An international survey reveals that 57% of senior disease experts believe influenza is the most likely cause. The World Health Organization emphasizes the seriousness of influenza, affecting 1 billion people annually and claiming hundreds of thousands of lives. Concerns are raised about the H5N1 strain's rapid spread and high fatality rate.

The WHO confirms H5N1 bird flu in raw milk in the US for the first time, urging people to drink pasteurized milk. H5N1, a deadly virus affecting birds and humans, has caused millions of bird and poultry deaths globally. The virus has also infected mammals, including humans. Health officials emphasize the safety of pasteurized milk. India is on alert due to bird flu in ducks. Properly pasteurized milk is safe to drink.

The House approved $95 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, overcoming opposition to support the Ukrainian military against Russia. The aid package includes $60 billion for Kyiv, $26 billion for Israel, and $8 billion for the Indo-Pacific region. The bill also includes provisions for repayment and potential forgiveness of loans to Ukraine. Speaker Mike Johnson took a political risk to secure bipartisan support.

Dubai International Airport faced unprecedented flooding due to heavy rainfall in the UAE. The CEO expects services to return to normal within 24 hours. The airport is providing emergency aid to stranded passengers. Flights have resumed, but inbound flights are temporarily limited. Passengers are advised to check flight statuses before traveling and arrive at the airport no more than two hours before departure.

India's general election, the world's largest democratic exercise, began with over 969 million voters. Narendra Modi's BJP aims for a third term amid accusations of undermining democracy. Modi's popularity remains high, with critics alleging state tools used against opponents. BJP's campaign focuses on economic growth, infrastructure, and nationalism. Opposition faces challenges, with BJP aiming for a significant majority. Concerns include potential constitutional changes and economic issues.

Oil prices surged over 3% in Asia after Israel's strikes on Iran raised fears of a Middle East conflict. Brent hit $90.27/barrel, WTI reached $85.76/barrel. Gold peaked at $2,411.09/ounce, and the yen strengthened to 153.93 against the U.S. dollar. Explosions near Isfahan airport were reported, leading to flight diversions over Iranian airspace.

Meta Platforms released Llama 3, a large language model, and an image generator to compete with OpenAI. Llama 3 has 400bn parameters, scoring 85 MMLU, with smaller versions having 8bn and 70bn parameters. Meta AI will integrate these models, expanding to markets like Australia and Canada. Meta aims to enhance user experience and compete with Microsoft-backed OpenAI. The company addressed safety concerns and emphasized the use of high-quality data for Llama 3.

NASA's Juno spacecraft captured close-up images of Jupiter's moon Io, revealing a lava lake named Loki Patera with islands and molten lava. Recent findings also include a mountain and polar cyclones on Io, as well as Jupiter's water abundance. Juno's extended mission aims to study Jupiter's core and compare water abundance in different regions. The spacecraft will conduct its 61st flyby on May 12.

Philippine and US forces will conduct their first military exercises outside the country's territorial waters, involving 16,700 soldiers simulating retaking enemy-occupied islands in areas facing Taiwan and the South China Sea. China warned against external forces in the region. The drills will include a French contingent and observers from 14 nations. The exercises aim to enhance communication amid tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.

The EU's Green Deal, crucial for biodiversity, climate change, and environmental laws, faces a high risk of being dismantled by far-right gains in upcoming elections. MEP Philippe Lamberts warns of watering down laws and scrapping plans. Despite Ursula von der Leyen's commitment, criticism is aimed at French President Macron for adopting far-right policies. The Nature Restoration Law is in jeopardy due to Hungary's opposition. Lamberts supports von der Leyen for a second term.

Eliot Bohr, descendant of physicist Niels Bohr, introduces a new time measurement technique using "superradiant atoms" for precise second measurement. This innovation aims to surpass limitations of existing atomic clocks, crucial for maintaining global time accuracy. With over 400 atomic clocks globally, oscillations are key for precise timekeeping.

A new study in Scientific Advances introduces a liver-targeted polymeric prodrug of tafenoquine (TQ) that could enhance malaria treatment. With nearly 250 million malaria cases and over 600,000 deaths in 2021, the need for radical cure drugs is critical. The prodrug, administered subcutaneously, shows promise in reducing hemolytic anemia risk and improving parasite elimination. This development could advance mass eradication efforts and address the urgent need for effective malaria therapies.

Moderna has patented a nucleic acid vaccine for varicella zoster virus, utilizing mRNA encoding VZV glycoproteins and a lipid nanoparticle. GlobalData reports Moderna's grant share at 27% in February 2024. The patent details lipid nanoparticle variations and chemically modified mRNA for enhanced efficacy. This innovative vaccine technology could revolutionize immunization strategies. For more insights, GlobalData offers a comprehensive report on Moderna's patenting strategy.

Genetics has evolved with the emergence of epigenetics, showing how environmental factors influence gene expression. Nutritional epigenetics studies how diet affects genes across generations. The Dutch Hunger Winter highlighted how famine led to epigenetic changes affecting health outcomes in subsequent generations. Research on animals and humans demonstrates the impact of parental diet on offspring. Making healthy dietary choices can positively influence future generations' health.

Central and Eastern Europe rely on decentralized renewable energy to reduce Russian energy imports and enhance grid resilience. Ukraine serves as a model. More renewables can drive re-industrialization, benefiting industries and tech sectors. Timely planning is crucial due to supply chain bottlenecks. Big energy consumers play a vital role. Countries must align energy strategies with grid development to meet 2030 targets efficiently.

UN talks aim to establish the first global treaty to combat plastic waste. Chair Luis Vayas Valdivieso is optimistic about securing an agreement despite challenges. Previous negotiations stalled due to differing views on plastic production. Only 10% of plastic is recycled. Talks in Ottawa this week will pave the way for a legally binding treaty next year. Ecuador is vying to host the treaty signing in the Galápagos Islands.

Researchers introduced a new cardiovascular risk prediction algorithm, QR4, in a Nature Medicine study. QR4 incorporates nine novel predictors and outperforms existing tools like SCORE2 and ASCVD. The study included over 9.97 million individuals in QResearch cohorts and 3.54 million in the CPRD cohort. QR4 accurately predicts 10-year CVD risk for both genders and accounts for competing risks, potentially improving health outcomes.

Antarctica's melting ice sheets could displace millions by 2100. West Antarctica's Siple Coast, crucial for sea level rise predictions, shows past instability. Research suggests ice retreat linked to Earth's crust and ocean changes. Computer simulations indicate warmer oceans accelerate ice retreat. Mitigation through low emissions can prevent irreversible ice sheet collapse, emphasizing the importance of climate policy. Ocean warming must be avoided to safeguard West Antarctica's future.

A film about Spain's 2018 #MeToo movement, focusing on the San Fermín festival assault case, was made in secret for three and a half years. The documentary led to legal changes and increased awareness of sexual violence. The film, "You Are Not Alone: Fighting the Wolf Pack," premiered in Spanish cinemas and globally on Netflix, reaching millions. The case sparked societal change in Spain and worldwide.

Researchers from SMART, MIT, and TLL developed a nanosensor for real-time monitoring of plant stress hormone salicylic acid. They also pioneered a method to multiplex sensors for simultaneous tracking of multiple plant hormones. This breakthrough allows for earlier stress detection, improving plant stress tolerance. The technology, based on corona phase molecular recognition, aims to enhance crop resilience and secure global food supply amidst climate change challenges.

WPP's Ogilvy is launching a division for online "health influencers" to combat medical misinformation on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. About 75% of dermatology videos on TikTok are not by certified professionals. One in four people turn to social media for healthcare info. Influencers must disclose pharma partnerships. Ogilvy emphasizes the importance of credibility in health marketing. Regulations vary globally on advertising prescription medicines. Social media plays a significant role in health advice dissemination.

The Supreme Court emphasized equal women participation in the workforce, stating it as a Constitutional duty. The court ruled in favor of a woman denied child-care leave for her disabled child, directing the state to revise its policies in line with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act. The case highlighted the importance of supporting mothers of children with special needs in the workforce.

The Biden administration introduced a minimum staffing rule for nursing homes, requiring a registered nurse on-site 24/7 and 3.48 hours of care per resident daily. This will necessitate hiring over 100,000 additional workers. The $4.4 billion yearly cost is disputed by industry groups, estimating it closer to $7 billion. Rural facilities may struggle to comply, risking closure. The rule aims to improve care standards.

Global food prices are expected to decline in 2024, offering relief for shoppers. Oxford Economics predicts a decrease in food commodity prices due to abundant supply of staple crops like wheat and maize. Wheat futures fell by almost 10% and maize futures by about 6% year-to-date. Record maize harvests are expected, while wheat harvests are forecast slightly lower than the previous year.

UnitedHealth Group confirms a ransomware attack on Change Healthcare led to a massive theft of Americans' health data. The attack affected a significant portion of the U.S. population as Change Healthcare handles health data for about half of all Americans. The cyberattack cost UnitedHealth over $870 million in losses, but the company still reported $99.8 billion in revenue for the first quarter of the year. CEO Andrew Witty is set to testify before House lawmakers on May 1.

India faces a crisis with antimicrobial drug resistance, causing 4.9 million deaths globally in 2019. Researchers at CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology in Hyderabad identified potential drug targets in E. coli and Plasmodium falciparum. The drug discovery process involves finding inhibitors, assessing enzyme structures, and utilizing AI for molecule prediction. Collaboration across disciplines and industries is crucial for successful drug development. The road from target identification to drug approval is challenging but necessary.

Three Australians are joining an unauthorized mission to deliver 5,500 tonnes of aid to Gaza, aiming to breach Israel's naval blockade. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition states 1.1 million people in Gaza are at risk of famine. Despite warnings from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs, the activists are determined to provide aid. The mission is funded through crowdsourcing and donations. The UNHRC has criticized Israel's use of force in previous incidents.

A study in Cell links early gut flora disturbances to autism and ADHD development. Researchers identified biomarkers at birth indicating future diagnoses. Autism affects 1-2% globally, ADHD 5-7% in children. Gut-brain axis plays a crucial role. Specific bacteria like Citrobacter were linked to disorders, while Coprococcus showed protective effects. Children with autism had lower linolenic acid and higher PFAS levels. Antibiotics in infancy increased disorder risks. Study suggests early interventions based on gut microbiota.

Victoria's infrastructure faces $1 trillion in disaster recovery costs by 2100 due to climate change. Infrastructure Victoria suggests cost-effective solutions to protect against extreme weather, estimating $5.10 return for every dollar spent on preventative maintenance. Simple actions like drainage clearing and vegetation management could yield $11.52 in benefits under future conditions. Adapting infrastructure is crucial to reduce harm and disaster recovery costs.

The 2024 Anglicare Australia Rental Affordability Snapshot reveals the lowest ever number of affordable rentals nationwide. Average rents are $200 higher than pre-pandemic levels. Only three properties are affordable for JobSeeker recipients, and none for youth allowance recipients. Anglicare calls the situation "horrifying," with just 13.4% of rentals affordable for a family of four on minimum wage. Tax reform and federal involvement in social housing are suggested solutions.

Magic Eden's coders gathered in a San Jose Airbnb to prepare for the bitcoin halving, launching the Runes Platform. Bitcoin hit an all-time high of $73,000 in March. The event coincided with major blockchain launches. Runes, an efficient asset issuance system, aims to boost DeFi on bitcoin. VC interest in layer two bitcoin projects is growing, with $1.9 billion invested in Q4 2023. Bitcoin's ecosystem is poised for growth.

President Biden announced $7 billion in solar power grants on Earth Day in Triangle, Virginia. The American Climate Corps received new support, aiming to train youth for clean energy jobs. The Solar for All program will benefit nearly one million households, saving $350 million annually. Biden emphasized the urgency of climate action, highlighting the need for progress and denying climate crisis deniers. The administration also partnered with TradesFutures for apprenticeship programs.

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a synthetic compound that boosts antibody production against cancer cells by targeting a protein in the blood and traveling to the lymph nodes. This innovative approach opens new possibilities for cancer vaccine development. The compound, utilizing a truncated carbohydrate and serum albumin, showed promising results in mice models, indicating potential for future clinical trials targeting various cancers.

Scientists in Shanghai have developed an affordable blood test to detect cancer in low- and middle-income countries. The test can identify multiple cancers within minutes, potentially reducing undiagnosed cases significantly. This method, using dried serum spots, aims to improve diagnostic capabilities in regions lacking resources. The focus on older age-related cancers is crucial as global demographics shift. Further real-world testing is needed for broader impact.

New research from Michigan State University reveals nanoparticles can deliver medicine to brain tissue through the digestive system, benefiting patients with neurodegenerative disorders like MS, ALS, and PD. Published in Nature Communications, the study emphasizes the importance of standardized protein corona analysis for clinical applications. CNM-Au8, developed by Clene Nanomedicine, Inc., utilizes gold nanocrystals to treat neurodegenerative diseases effectively. This innovative method enhances the nanocrystals' ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.

Honda Motor Co. Ltd. is set to announce a multibillion-dollar deal with the federal government and Ontario to establish an electric vehicle chain in the province. The deal includes a battery manufacturing plant and a retooled car assembly plant in Alliston, Ont. Ontario's Premier Doug Ford mentioned the investment will be the largest in Canadian history, double the size of Volkswagen's $7-billion EV plant. Honda's investment could reach up to $18.5 billion.

BTS and UNICEF launch #OnMyMind initiative, part of Love Myself campaign, to support global youth mental health. Participants can send e-postcards sharing their stories and challenges. BTS previously collaborated with UNICEF in 2017 for the Love Myself anti-violence campaign. BTS and ARMY have raised over $6.6 million for the Love Myself campaign as of March 2024.