Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for July 16, 2024


AI tool successfully responds to patient questions in electronic health record

A new study by NYU Langone Health shows that an AI tool can draft responses to patients' EHR queries as accurately as human healthcare professionals, with greater perceived empathy. The tool has the potential to dramatically reduce physicians' In Basket burden while improving their communication with patients.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Nature-based solutions to disaster risk from climate change are cost effective, UMmass Amherst study confirms

A global assessment of scientific literature finds that nature-based solutions (NbS) are an economically effective method to mitigate risks from disasters such as floods, hurricanes, heatwaves, and landslides. NbS have been proven consistently cost-effective in mitigating hazards in 71% of the studied articles.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 16, 2024

Automated appointment scheduling and reminder messages may improve post-partum health and well-being for those with chronic health conditions

A new study found that an intervention involving automated appointment scheduling and reminder messages can increase primary care visits by 19 percentage points and improve screening tests and services. This low-cost intervention may help bridge the gap in postpartum care for individuals with chronic health conditions.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

A new addition to the CRISPR toolbox: Teaching the gene scissors to detect RNA

Researchers have developed a new method called PUMA that uses CRISPR-Cas12 nucleases to detect RNA biomarkers. This technology overcomes limitations of existing methods by reprogramming tracrRNAs to recognize specific RNA targets, enabling precise detection without requiring a specific recognition sequence.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Female Australian football players are taking more hits

Sub-elite female Australian football players experience different injury patterns compared to males, highlighting the need for targeted training and injury prevention strategies. Ankle sprains, concussions, and anterior cruciate ligament injuries are the most common and burdensome, resulting in the most missed matches.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Science and Medicine in Sport·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2024

A new study finds that early detection of miRNAs in maternal blood may offer the potential for predicting preeclampsia

A new study identifies the potential of specific microRNAs within extracellular vesicles as a noninvasive biomarker for predicting preeclampsia. Researchers found that women with pre-eclampsia had distinct miRNA patterns in their blood, which could help detect the condition early on.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 16, 2024

Playing Dungeons and Dragons can support mental health

A new study finds that playing Dungeons and Dragons can positively impact players' mental health by providing a space for creative expression, social support, and escapism. The game's immersive nature allows players to feel a sense of control and autonomy, leading to increased personal growth and skills development.

SourceUniversity College Cork·JournalInternational Journal of Role-Playing·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, July 16, 2024 Contact: Gina DiGravio, 617-358-7838, ginad@bu.edu New Study Validates Diagnostic Tool for Identifying Amyloid Beta Plaques, Key Hallmark of Alzheimer’s Disease Results could impact the clinical care of patients wi

Researchers at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine have found that electroencephalograms (ERPs) can be used to diagnose Amyotid Beta Plaques in patients with Alzheimer's disease. ERPs may provide a low-cost and non-invasive method for detecting AD pathology in-vivo.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 16, 2024

Recycled micro-sized silicon anodes from photovoltaic waste improve lithium-ion battery performance

Researchers have developed low-cost micro-sized silicon anodes from recycled photovoltaic waste using a novel electrolyte design. The new anodes exhibit remarkable electrochemical stability, maintaining an average coulombic efficiency of 99.94% after 200 cycles. This breakthrough addresses the major challenges facing micro-sized silico...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Etiologies of splenic venous hypertension

Splenic venous hypertension is a rare condition characterized by upper GI bleeding without liver disease. It arises due to increased pressure in the splenic vein, leading to gastric varices. Diagnosis involves clinical suspicion, imaging studies, and endoscopic methods.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJul 16, 2024

Resistance exercise ‘activity breaks’ at night may improve sleep length

A small comparative study found that regular 3-minute resistance exercises every half hour for 4 hours can increase sleep duration by an average of 27 minutes compared to prolonged sitting. The study suggests that evening exercise may not adversely impact sleep quality, but further research is needed.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 16, 2024

Ground surface conditions impact speed and distance of leaking natural gas

A new study by SMU-led researchers found that ground surface conditions significantly impact the speed and distance of leaking natural gas, with saturated surfaces allowing gas to migrate farthest. The study also highlights the importance of considering soil surface structures when evaluating pipeline leak safety risks.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Research spotlight: Patterns and prognostications in immune-related adverse events from immunotherapy treatment

A study comprehensively evaluated occurrence patterns of immune-related adverse events, including those affecting single organs and multiple organs. Researchers found that most events tend to co-occur and identified seven patient clusters with different development patterns, which were associated with improved or worsened survival outc...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 16, 2024

Should AI be used in psychological research?

Researchers caution against relying solely on LLMs for human participants due to cross-cultural variation and limited variability in responses. While LLMs can analyze text, they struggle with implicit, emotional, or context-dependent tasks, and their black-box nature hinders reproducibility.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 16, 2024

Active commuting linked to lower risks of mental and physical ill health

A large-scale study published in the BMJ Group found that commuters who cycle or walk to work have lower risks of mental and physical ill health compared to those who don't. Cyclists were associated with a 47% lower risk of death from any cause, while pedestrian commuters had an 11% lower risk of hospital admission for any cause.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2024

Ultrahigh energy density in dielectric nanocomposites by modulating nanofiller orientation and polymer crystallization behavior

A team of researchers from Central South University proposes a novel strategy to enhance breakdown strength and electric polarization in dielectric materials. By modulating filler orientation and polymer crystallization, they achieve ultrahigh energy density and improved voltage endurance.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Multiple concussions in rugby players change proteins linked to neurodegenerative diseases

A study by Durham University found that retired rugby players with multiple concussions have higher levels of proteins linked to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and motor neurone disease. The research suggests monitoring athletes' blood for these biomarkers may help diagnose early disease and prevent future development.

SourceDurham University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2024

Lancet Oncology publication establishes imaging guidelines for head and neck cancers, a step toward practice change

The study establishes criteria for identifying extranodal extension on imaging, allowing radiologists to make accurate calls and provide patients with less invasive treatments. This shift towards practice change has the potential to reduce side effects and improve outcomes for patients with HPV-associated head and neck cancers.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeSurvey·DateJul 16, 2024

USGS: Local dragonflies expose mercury pollution patterns

A new study reveals surprising findings about mercury pollution patterns in ecosystems, where it comes from and how it moves vary significantly. Dragonfly larvae are found to be a cost-effective indicator of mercury contamination in nearly every aquatic habitat, providing valuable insights for resource management decisions.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 16, 2024

Understanding others: By age three, we can do this with mirror neurons

Researchers discovered that children's understanding of others' motor intentions develops with age, but is already present at three years old. They measured the activation of a muscle involved in opening the mouth while performing tasks, finding that it activated earlier in older children.

SourceUniversita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Roles of PEDF in exercise-induced suppression of senescence and its impact on lung pathology in mice

The study found that exercise increased PEDF levels in skeletal muscles and suppressed senescence markers in the lungs. PEDF also reduced senescence markers in multiple tissues and attenuated decline in respiratory function in pulmonary emphysema mouse model, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for age-related diseases.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2024

Breakthrough in quantum microscopy: Stuttgart researchers are making electrons visible in slow motion

Researchers at the University of Stuttgart have developed a breakthrough in quantum microscopy that allows them to observe the collective motion of electrons in materials. By studying the effect of impurities on these movements, they hope to develop materials with desired properties and create ultra-fast switching materials.

SourceUniversitaet Stuttgart·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Unique characteristics of previously unexplored protein discovered

A research collaboration has uncovered a unique mechanism of crosstalk between microtubules and actin cytoskeleton during cell division, revealing characteristics of the previously unexplored protein FAM110A. This breakthrough finding enhances understanding of critical process relevant in developmental disorders and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeNews article·DateJul 16, 2024

New research reveals link between Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and liver damage

A recent study has discovered a significant connection between Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and liver dysfunction, with fatty liver disease appearing in mild and severe forms of the condition. The research, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, suggests that SMA patients may face additional health problems over time.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 16, 2024

Partisan politics and perceptions of immorality

A study found that Americans tend to believe their opponents approve of widely agreed-upon moral wrongs, fueling partisan divides. This bias, known as the basic morality bias, can lead to dehumanization and decreased willingness to work with opposing parties.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 16, 2024

Decline in global adolescent fertility rates is counteracted by increasing teen births in Sub-Saharan Africa

A new report highlights a troubling trend: while global adolescent fertility rates have significantly declined, sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing an increase in teen births. The region's share of global adolescent births surged from 12% in 1950 to 47% in 2020 and is projected to reach a majority by 2035.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalStudies in Family Planning·DateJul 16, 2024

Oil and natural gas development in Permian is a key source of ozone pollution in Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Research shows that oil and natural gas development in the Permian Basin contributes to high eight-hour ozone concentrations frequently exceeding EPA health standards during summer months. The study uses data from a 2019 field survey to confirm the impact of drilling, flaring, and other activities on ozone levels.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateJul 16, 2024

Supplements slow disease progression during late stage of “dry” age-related macular degeneration

Researchers found that taking AREDS2 supplements slows the expansion of geographic atrophy regions towards the central foveal region of the retina. The study suggests that antioxidant supplementation may slow central vision loss in people with late-stage dry AMD, supporting continued use of AREDS2 supplements.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalOphthalmology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 16, 2024

Improv: A new tool for boosting empathy in healthcare

A new study reveals that improv performance can increase healthcare students' empathy for one another, leading to improved patient care and reduced practitioner burnout. Regular improv sessions may be a useful tool to complement traditional empathy-building methods.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

From floats to fixes: Unifying ambiguity resolution in satellite navigation

A pioneering study introduces a unified approach to ambiguity resolution in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) precise positioning. The Multiple Integer Candidates Ambiguity Resolution (MICAR) algorithm enhances precision and speed of GNSS positioning by exploiting multiple integer candidates.

Social media polls deliberately skew political realities of 2016, 2020 US presidential elections, finds research team led by UMass Amherst

Research by the University of Massachusetts Amherst team found that social media polls consistently predicted a landslide election win for Trump in both 2016 and 2020 presidential contests. The polls were predominantly crafted by males with a bias for Trump, and purchasing votes from troll farms was common.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Quantitative Description Digital Media·DateJul 16, 2024

Scientists use machine learning to predict diversity of tree species in forests

Researchers used machine learning to create highly detailed maps of individual trees, providing valuable information for conservation efforts and ecological projects. The algorithm achieved high accuracy in classifying common tree species, with strengths shown in areas with open space and lower species diversity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 16, 2024

Children with conduct disorder show widespread brain structural differences – new international study

Children with conduct disorder show significant reductions in brain surface area and volume of subcortical regions compared to typically developing children. These findings suggest that the development of the brain is different in individuals with CD, highlighting the need for further research into this under-recognized condition.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2024

Timing is everything: Study finds link between bowel movement frequency and overall health

Researchers found that bowel movement frequency is linked to long-term health, with younger people, women, and those with lower BMI tending to have less frequent bowel movements. The study also showed associations between bowel movement frequency and chronic disease risk, mental health history, and gut microbiome composition.

SourceInstitute for Systems Biology·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJul 16, 2024

Ultrasonography of hepatocellular carcinoma: From diagnosis to prognosis

This paper reviews various ultrasound techniques for HCC surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment, highlighting their clinical applications and benefits. Regular monitoring with gray-scale ultrasound is recommended for high-risk patients, while Doppler ultrasound techniques provide critical information for therapeutic decisions.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJul 16, 2024

Farming under the influence?

A new University of Georgia study reveals that one in five US farmers report binge drinking when they experience high levels of stress. The survey also found that farmers consume alcohol at similar rates as the general public, but those who reported feeling supported by community resources were less likely to drink excessively.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Agromedicine·DateJul 16, 2024

Correcting mutations that cause stroke

LMU researchers have developed strategies to repair mutated proteins that cause an inherited stroke disorder called CARASIL. The team used a combination of in-vitro and in-vivo methods to restore the function of the protease HTRA1, which plays a crucial role in maintaining equilibrium in the extracellular matrix.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Food aroma study may help explain why meals taste bad in space

Researchers discovered that a particular sweet chemical in vanilla and almond aromas could explain the change in perceptions, along with individual sensitivity. The study also found that spatial perception played a significant role in how people smell aromas in isolated settings.

SourceRMIT University·JournalInternational Journal of Food Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Many breast cancer survivors do not receive genetic testing, despite being eligible

A new study from the University of Michigan Health Rogel Cancer Center found that nearly three-quarters of patients who were eligible for genetic testing at diagnosis received it over the study period. Those who got testing and found they had a genetic variant were most likely to talk with their family about the results.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeSurvey·DateJul 16, 2024

Time-of-flight resolved stimulated Raman scattering microscopy using counter-propagating ultraslow Bessel light bullets generation

Researchers have developed a novel time-of-flight resolved stimulated Raman scattering microscopy that uses counter-propagating ultraslow Bessel light bullets for deeper tissue imaging. The technique offers high spatial resolution and improved penetration depth without the need for mechanical z-scanning.

Evening activity for better sleep – Otago study

Researchers found that participants who completed activity breaks during prolonged sitting sessions slept for 30 minutes longer than those who sat continuously. Short bursts of light-intensity exercise, such as chair squats and calf raises, were used in the intervention.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·DateJul 16, 2024

Breaking through silicon

The team achieves nanofabrication of nanostructures buried deep inside silicon wafers, enabling sub-wavelength and multi-dimensional control directly inside the material. The breakthrough opens up new possibilities for developing nano-scale systems with unique architectures.

SourceBilkent University Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Metamaterials for the data highway

Scientists from HZDR, TU Chemnitz, TU Dresden, and Forschungszentrum Jülich have demonstrated the storage of entire bit sequences in cylindrical domains. The team's findings could lead to novel types of data storage and sensors, including magnetic variants of neural networks.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

AI makes human-like reasoning mistakes

Large language models (LMs) exhibit human-like reasoning flaws, particularly in tasks requiring semantic content and believability. LMs struggle to distinguish between valid and invalid arguments, mirroring human errors, especially when semantic content is sensical and believable.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 16, 2024

Weight gain in young and middle-aged adults is linked to poor heart health in older age

A major study found that people who gained excess weight from their 20s onwards had less healthy hearts by the time they were in their 60s. The researchers linked weight gain in young and middle-aged adults to enlarged hearts that pump blood less well, over and above the effect of being overweight in later years.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2024

Immune system in the spotlight

A German team has developed a photostimulated antigen release system that can be used to precisely study antigen flux in living cells. This method allows for the analysis of complex antigen processing and transport processes in real-time, providing new insights into immune surveillance.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Researchers create new template of the human brain

Researchers created a new cortical surface template called 'OpenNeuro Average' that provides greater accuracy and efficiency in analyzing neuroimaging data. The template is based on the geometric shape of the brain and can be used for studies on cognition, clinical neuroscience, autism, and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 16, 2024