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Science News Archive April 2024 - Page 40


Page 40 of 41

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

Physics-based predictive tool will speed up battery and superconductor research

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a physics-based predictive tool that quickly identifies stable intercalated materials for advanced electronics and energy storage devices. By analyzing over 9,000 compounds, the tool uses straightforward principles from undergraduate chemistry to predict host-guest stability.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalACS Physical Chemistry Au·DateApr 1, 2024

UIC engineers ‘symphonize’ cleaner ammonia production

University of Illinois Chicago engineers have developed a new ammonia production process that meets several green targets. The process combines nitrogen gas and ethanol with a charged lithium electrode, producing ammonia at low temperatures and regenerating materials with each cycle. If scaled up, the process could produce ammonia at 6...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 1, 2024

Health care utilization is increased in high-risk children who have a sleep disorder

A new study found that children with chronic medical conditions who also have a diagnosed sleep disorder are nearly two times more likely to have increased health care utilization. The most common sleep disorder diagnosis was sleep-disordered breathing, which was present in 1,796 children.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 1, 2024

Novel pre-clinical models help advance therapeutic development for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in Asian phenotypes

Researchers developed novel pre-clinical models to examine the behavior of Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp) strains, revealing differences in aggressiveness between hospital-acquired and community-acquired infections. These models provide a platform for assessing novel drugs and interventions to combat Kp-related diseases.

Ancient Adélie penguin DNA reveals that small repeats persist for hundreds of millions of years

A recent study has uncovered new insights into the evolution of microsatellites in ancient and modern Adélie penguin genomes. The research found that microsatellite length remained remarkably stable over thousands of years, with some loci persisting for over half a billion years.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateApr 1, 2024