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Science News Archive July 2024 - Page 2


Page 2 of 41

Humans are born to run

Researchers found that humans were born to run due to their unique physiological traits and social benefits of endurance pursuits. Studies reveal that humans were engaging in endurance hunting tactics for thousands of years, with similar patterns observed across diverse environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 31, 2024

Vaping and smoking together increases lung cancer risk fourfold

A new study published by Ohio State University has found that vaping combined with cigarette smoking increases the risk of lung cancer four times higher than people who only smoke. Researchers analyzed data from over 4,975 patients with lung cancer and a control group of 27,294 people without cancer.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Oncology Research and Therapy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 31, 2024

Smell reports reveal the need to expand urban air quality monitoring, say UBC researchers

Researchers analyzed 549 reports from the Smell Vancouver app to discover that unpleasant smells like rotting and chemical odors dominate in Vancouver, linked to self-reported health issues. The study highlights the need for expanded urban air quality monitoring to address these issues.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEnvironmental Research Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 31, 2024

Risks of anxiety, suicide attempt may rise significantly after cardiovascular hospitalization

A new analysis found that people hospitalized for heart disease, stroke, or cardiovascular diseases are 83% more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or other psychiatric conditions within the first year after hospitalization. Early mental health screening and intervention are crucial for patients and their loved ones.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 31, 2024

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.