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Science News Archive 2024 - Page 206


Page 206 of 484

New model uses satellite imagery, machine learning to map flooding in urban environments

A new mapping tool from North Carolina State University uses machine learning and open-source satellite imagery to model flooding in urban environments. The model creates maps that predict urban area flooding, helping officials make informed choices about flood resiliency and prevention resources.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNatural Hazards·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 31, 2024

AI predicts male infertility risk with blood test, no semen needed

Researchers developed an AI prediction model that can identify male infertility risk without semen analysis, using hormone levels in a blood test. The model achieved an accuracy rate of approximately 74% and was particularly accurate in predicting non-obstructive azoospermia, the most severe form of male infertility.

SourceToho University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJul 31, 2024

With biodiversity under threat, scientists suggest the need for a new biorepository—on the moon

A team of researchers suggests creating a lunar biorepository to store cryopreserved samples of at-risk animal species, leveraging the Moon's natural cold temperatures for long-term storage. The facility aims to protect biodiversity from extinction threats and challenges such as climate change and geopolitical conflicts.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 31, 2024

New principle for treating tuberculosis

Researchers have identified a group of molecules called callyaerins that can act against tuberculosis by targeting a specific membrane protein of the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These substances inhibit bacterial growth without affecting human cells, offering a promising new approach to treating the disease.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJul 31, 2024

Use of carbon dioxide as fertilizer in tropical forests limited by phosphorus availability

A new model reveals that phosphorus limitation reduces tropical forest productivity responses to rising CO2 concentrations. The study found that combined nitrogen and phosphorus limitations diminish CO2 fertilization effect on gross primary production and net ecosystem production by significant margins.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalForest Ecosystems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 31, 2024

Green hydrogen: ‘Artificial leaf’ becomes better under pressure

Researchers at HZB have increased the efficiency of photoelectrochemical cells by operating them under elevated pressure. This reduces losses due to bubble formation and improves light illumination, resulting in a relative increase of 5-10 percent in overall efficiency. The optimal operating pressure range is between 6-8 bar.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 31, 2024

Strong El Nino makes European winters easier to forecast

A new study found that strong El Nino events make it easier to forecast European winters, allowing for more accurate predictions of temperature and precipitation patterns. The research team analyzed 30 years of winter forecasts from seven different prediction systems and identified common factors influencing predictability.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJul 31, 2024

The Lancet: Nearly half of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by tackling 14 risk factors starting in childhood, including two new risks—high cholesterol and vision loss

The Lancet Commission on dementia prevention recommends addressing 14 modifiable risk factors to prevent or delay nearly half of dementia cases. The report identifies two new risks: high LDL cholesterol and vision loss, which are associated with 9% of all dementia cases.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 31, 2024

More electricity from the sun

Researchers developed a coating technique that increases the efficiency of monolithic tandem cells made of silicon and perovskite, while maintaining long-term stability. The coating uses thiophenethylammonium compound to smooth out surface defects, resulting in a high efficiency rate of nearly 31%.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 31, 2024

Analysis of 24 different modern conversational Large Language Models reveals that most major open- and closed-source LLMs tend to lean left when asked politically charged questions

A study published in PLOS ONE analyzed 24 state-of-the-art Large Language Models (LLMs) and found that most produced responses rated as left-of-center when asked politically charged questions. The researchers used various tests, including the Political Compass Test and Eysenck’s Political Test, to evaluate the LLMs’ political orientation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 31, 2024

“Smarter” semiconductor technology for training “smarter” artificial intelligence

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a novel analog hardware using ECRAM devices that maximizes AI computational performance. Their technique, which uses a three-terminal structure with separate paths for reading and writing data, demonstrates excellent electrical and switching characteristics.

Size-inclusive model photos are win-win for online retailers, customers and environment – new study

A new study finds that size-inclusive model photos improve online retailers' sales and reduce product returns, increasing customer satisfaction and inclusivity. The research suggests that using diverse models to showcase clothing items can create a more welcoming environment for customers of various sizes.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of the Academy of Marketing Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 31, 2024

World first discoveries allow researchers to accurately diagnose prenatal exposure syndromes and birth disorders

Researchers at Lawson Health Research Institute have made a world-first discovery using advanced technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to accurately diagnose rare diseases and prenatal exposure-related birth abnormalities. They used EpiSign technology, which measures a patient's epigenome, to identify patients affected by recurre...

SourceLawson Health Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 31, 2024

When the last pit is closed

Researchers investigate four European regions experiencing demographic decline, exploring how relationships between generations and places change over time. The study uses participant observation and participatory action research methods to gather insights from families and local residents.

Stem cell harmony: How solanaceae plants maintain homeostasis through receptor compensation

A pivotal study reveals the genetic interplay that maintains stem cell balance in Solanaceae plants, uncovering receptor compensation mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for improving crop resilience and productivity, providing new perspectives for crop improvement and innovative approaches to agriculture.

Algorithm helps doctors identify more aggressive types of basal cell carcinoma

A new clinical algorithm developed at the University of Gothenburg can accurately identify highly aggressive forms of basal cell carcinoma. The algorithm uses a combination of clinical and dermoscopic images to distinguish between low-risk and high-risk tumors, allowing for more effective treatment and better patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalDermatology Practical & Conceptual·TypeObservational study·DateJul 30, 2024

Making sense of the data jungle

Researchers at HIRI and THWS develop a desktop application to visualize scRNA-seq data, enabling interactive 3D exploration of gene expression in single cells. The tool allows users to focus on specific cell populations or genes of interest, facilitating better understanding of bacterial defenses against antibiotics.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalNAR Genomics and Bioinformatics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 30, 2024

A brain fingerprint: Study uncovers unique brain plasticity in people born blind

A study by Georgetown University neuroscientists reveals that the primary visual cortex develops a unique connectivity pattern in people born blind, stable over time and distinct from individuals who can see. This finding has profound implications for understanding brain development and may help launch personalized rehabilitation and s...

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2024

Trailblazing research shows the spatial pattern of pathological changes in the brain can help identify dementia vulnerability decades before it occurs

A novel study finds that monitoring cortical microstructural change in the brain using diffusion weighted MRI scans may help identify individuals at risk for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Tracking these changes over time could provide precious time for disease-modifying treatments.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 30, 2024