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Science News for April 2, 2024


New study finds triple-negative breast cancer tumors with an increase in immune cells have lower risk of recurrence after surgery

A new study suggests that early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients with high levels of immune cells in their tumors may have a lower risk of recurrence and better survival rates even without chemotherapy. Higher TILs in breast cancer tissue were associated with lower recurrence rates among participants.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJAMA·DateApr 2, 2024

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

A new study suggests that most essential care for cardiovascular health happens in general primary care clinics, but many at high risk don't receive it. The study found that large percentages of people with major cardiovascular risk factors didn't see a primary care provider or cardiologist in the past year.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2024

Why don't we stick to home physiotherapy exercises?

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev identified six barriers to consistent home physiotherapy exercises in vestibular rehabilitation, including motivation, increased symptoms, and psychosocial factors. The study offers actionable recommendations for clinicians to overcome these barriers and improve treatment outcomes.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Neurologic Physical Therapy·TypeSurvey·DateApr 2, 2024

A molecular route to decoding synaptic specificity and nerve cell communication

A team of researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology identified the molecular mechanisms involved in synaptic communication using Drosophila. They found that Side-IV/Beat-IIb immunoglobulin superfamily protein molecules play a crucial role in inducing synapse formation and regulating preferential signaling among neuron pairs.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2024

A new estimate of U.S. soil organic carbon to improve Earth system models

Scientists have developed a new method to estimate soil organic carbon in the US, providing a more accurate benchmark for policymakers. The study reveals how environmental variables affect soil organic carbon and offers insights into mitigating climate change through sustainable land management practices.

SourceEmory University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Biogeosciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 2, 2024

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

A new study shows that far-UVC light can virtually eliminate airborne viruses in occupied work environments, reducing infectious airborne virus levels by 99.8%. The technology has the potential to provide more protection against airborne-disease transmission than ventilation systems, making it a promising solution for indoor spaces.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2024

A new 'Deep Learning' model predicts with great accuracy water and energy demands in Agriculture

A new Deep Learning model based on the Transformer architecture has been developed to predict water and energy demands in agriculture. The model forecasts daily demand for irrigation water seven days in advance with an error margin of less than 2%, enabling effective resource management without autonomy loss.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalComputers and Electronics in Agriculture·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 2, 2024

Methods sections often lack critical details needed to reproduce an experiment, and the practice of citing previous papers instead of describing the methods in detail may contribute to this problem

A recent analysis of over 750 papers found that more than 90% rely on shortcut citations in their methods sections, significantly impeding the ability to reconstruct original experiments. This practice is prevalent across journals, with less than a quarter adhering to policies governing previously described methods.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 2, 2024

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

A recent study published in Annals of Neurology suggests that midlife stressful events may be a risk factor for developing Alzheimer's disease in older ages. Researchers found associations between stress and higher levels of beta-amyloid protein, neuroinflammation, and brain atrophy, particularly in men.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalAnnals of Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 2, 2024

Older trees help to protect an endangered species

A study by University of Barcelona researchers reveals older trees are crucial for conserving the wolf lichen, a threatened species found in European high mountain forests. The oldest trees provide unique shelter and conditions that support the survival of this endangered species.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 2, 2024

Corn reduces arsenic toxicity in soil

A study by the University of Basel found that corn plants release benzoxazinoids, which reduce arsenic uptake and mitigate toxicity. This mechanism could be used to cultivate hyper-emitting plant varieties for arsenic-contaminated locations, reducing food chain contamination.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2024

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

A recent study from the University of Florida found that companies ignoring climate risks tend to face market penalties, whereas those proactively managing risks fare better. The research analyzed textual data from nearly 5,000 US public companies and discovered a costly divide between proactive and non-proactive firms.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalReview of Financial Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2024

Lung cancer does not decrease in line with reduced smoking

A new study from Umeå University found that lung cancer rates haven't decreased as expected with reduced smoking. Despite declining smoking rates, the number of cases of lung cancer has increased, especially among women. The study suggests that previous assumptions about the quick decrease in risk after quitting may have been exaggerated.

SourceUmea University·JournalEuropean Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2024

Mental health emergencies in kids were more severe during the pandemic

A new study found that pediatric emergency departments saw more severe mental health presentations among children and adolescents during the pandemic, with a significant increase in prolonged stays in EDs. The findings highlight the strain on the system and difficulties finding appropriate psychiatric care for children.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateApr 2, 2024

Hope for treating autoimmune diseases

A routine blood test that measures inflammation levels could improve diagnosis and management of debilitating autoimmune diseases. The Systemic Inflammation Index (SII) has shown high accuracy in diagnosing immunological diseases.

SourceFlinders University·JournalClinical and Experimental Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 2, 2024

Investigating the surface extraction of platinum catalysts in alkaline media

The study elucidates the role of interfacial cations in oxide formation on Pt surfaces, suggesting that selecting optimal cations can control surface oxidation and improve electrode durability. This finding is crucial for developing high-performance and stable Pt electrocatalysts for next-generation electrochemical devices.

SourceChiba University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2024

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

Researchers have sequenced the first draft genome of Osmia lignaria, a key pollinator for almond trees, shedding light on its physiological and molecular processes. This analysis led to a better understanding of the bee's lifecycle and dormancy periods, enabling potential developments in managed populations for pollination services.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalInsect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 2, 2024

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

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health reveals that nearly half of Las Vegas concertgoers who survived the 2017 mass shooting experienced major depressive episodes within the past year. The study also found that over 63% of survivors reported post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms during the same time period.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 2, 2024

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

A new study using spatial transcriptomics has generated a unique spatial atlas of intestinal cells in both healthy and inflamed states. The research reveals the evolution of cell populations during inflammation, particularly highlighting the significance of fibroblasts in response to gut inflammation.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2024

Scientists’ urgent call: end destruction and forge a just, sustainable future

The study emphasizes the urgent need for a just and sustainable future, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, climate change, and socio-economic inequality. The authors advocate for a global cultural shift that prioritizes kinship with nature and communal well-being to avoid devastating consequences.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 2, 2024

100 kilometers of quantum-encrypted transfer

Scientists have made significant breakthroughs in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology, enabling secure data transfer over long distances. The new method uses Continuous Variable Quantum Key Distribution to distribute quantum-encrypted keys via fibre optic cables, paving the way for a quantum-secure internet infrastructure.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 2, 2024

Precise localization of miniature robots and surgical instruments inside the body

A team at the German Cancer Research Center has developed a new method for precise localization of miniature robots and surgical instruments, enabling real-time tracking and control. This breakthrough could advance many medical procedures, including nanorobots for drug transport, tissue measurements, and surgical procedures.

Researchers use smartphone screen to create 3D layered holographic images

A new approach uses a smartphone screen to create full-color 3D holographic images by leveraging computer-generated holography (CGH) and an optical component called a spatial light modulator. The method has the potential to enhance near-eye displays in virtual reality headsets, creating more realistic and interactive user experiences.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateApr 2, 2024

Even moderate alcohol usage during pregnancy linked to birth abnormalities, UNM researchers find

UNM researchers found that even low to moderate alcohol use during pregnancy can contribute to subtle changes in prenatal development, including lower birth length and shorter gestation duration. Sex-specific differences were also observed, with male infants affected more by the effects of drinking during pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalAlcohol Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeObservational study·DateApr 2, 2024

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

A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT-4 and Google Bard can generate incorrect or incomplete medical advice, highlighting the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for accurate information. The study assessed 56 questions posed to LLMs and found that ...

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 2, 2024

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

A new study from Aarhus University reveals that only 67% of Danes registered with an ectodermal dysplasia diagnosis actually have congenital ectodermal dysplasia. The study identifies key characteristics, including abnormal teeth, skin issues, and nail problems, highlighting the need for collaboration across healthcare disciplines.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJAMA Dermatology·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 2, 2024

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

This study examines tourism planning practices in Ecuador using social practice theory, revealing traditional and emerging approaches. The findings highlight the importance of considering the knowledge, experience, and context of consultants in shaping tourism planning processes.

SourceEscuela Superior Politecnica del Litoral·JournalCurrent Issues in Tourism·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 2, 2024