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Betelgeuse Betelgeuse? Bright star Betelgeuse likely has a ‘Betelbuddy’ stellar companion

A new study suggests that Betelgeuse's pulsing is due to an orbiting companion star known as the 'Betelbuddy'. The star acts like a snowplow, pushing light-blocking dust out of the way and making Betelgeuse appear brighter. Researchers used computer simulations to confirm this hypothesis, ruling out other possible causes.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 21, 2024

"islands" of regularity discovered in the famously chaotic three-body problem

Astronomers have discovered patterns of regularity within the chaotic three-body problem, which is a fundamental challenge in physics. The researcher's findings suggest that certain configurations of three massive objects can lead to predictable outcomes, offering new insights into astrophysics and the behavior of black holes.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateOct 10, 2024

HPV vaccination switch to 1-dose gender-neutral approach

A new Canadian study models a 1-dose HPV vaccination approach and finds it could prevent a similar number of cervical cancers as 2 doses if vaccine protection remains high. The switch is projected to be a more efficient use of vaccine doses, potentially eliminating cervical cancer in Canada by 2040.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 7, 2024

New addition to standard-of-care treatments for non-small-cell lung cancer patients has potential to increase progression-free survival

Researchers developed a mathematical model predicting enhanced survival outcomes for NSCLC patients with novel treatment combinations. The model neutralizes the negative effects of miR-155, boosting standard-of-care treatments like cisplatin and immune checkpoint inhibitors.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalMolecular Cancer·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 27, 2024

The Lancet Public Health: MMR vaccine remains the best protection against measles - modelling study in England suggests level of protection decreases slightly over time

A modelling study suggests that slow waning of MMR vaccine-induced immunity may contribute to rising measles cases in double-vaccinated people. However, the MMR vaccine remains the most effective measure to prevent measles infection, and community vaccination levels above 95% are essential to prevent outbreaks.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 26, 2024

A method of ‘look twice, forgive once’ can sustain social cooperation

Researchers from Penn and Princeton developed a method of judging behavior that sustains cooperation, called 'look twice, forgive once.' This approach looks at multiple actions and forgives some bad actions to maintain consensus, confirming the original hypothesis that public institutions are not necessary for reputation-based cooperat...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 26, 2024

Demand-side actions could help construction sector deliver on net-zero targets

A new study suggests that using state-of-the-art energy efficiency technologies can enable Europe's construction sector to almost eliminate its carbon emissions by 2060. Employing technologies like solar energy and heat pumps can reduce total energy used for heating and cooling buildings by up to 97%.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 20, 2024

Maynooth University study reveals impact of homework on student achievement in maths and science

The study found that daily homework assignments were most effective for improving mathematics achievement, while science performance benefitted from homework assigned three to four times a week. Short-duration homework tasks lasting up to 15 minutes were shown to be just as effective as longer assignments.

SourceMaynooth University·JournalLearning and Instruction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 19, 2024

Pusan National University researchers develop precise pricing formula for perpetual American strangle options

A team of researchers at Pusan National University developed a pricing formula for perpetual American strangle options (PASOs) using a stochastic volatility model. The formula is accurate and provides a better understanding of the risks and returns associated with PASOs, especially in low-volatility environments.

SourcePusan National University·JournalMathematics and Computers in Simulation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 2024

Breakthrough in solid oxide fuel cell technology with direct internal reforming of ethanol: new model offers insight for efficient power generation

Researchers introduce a new mathematical model tailored for SOFCs using direct internal reforming of ethanol, validated against experimental data. The study reveals how operating conditions influence the reactions inside the SOFC, improving hydrogen yield and performance at increased current densities.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalEmergency Management Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2024

Think simpler, flow faster

Researchers have developed a novel approach using deep learning to accelerate the solution of Navier-Stokes equations, a set of classical equations that describe fluid dynamics. The team's method achieved inference latencies of just 7 milliseconds per input, outperforming traditional finite difference methods.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateSep 3, 2024

UVA research cracks the autism code, making the neurodivergent brain visible

A multi-university research team led by University of Virginia engineering professor Gustavo K. Rohde has developed a system that can accurately spot genetic markers of autism in brain images. The system uses generative computer modeling technique called transport-based morphometry, which reveals brain structure patterns that predict v...

Illinois researchers develop near-infrared spectroscopy models to analyze corn kernels, biomass

The study utilizes near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and machine learning to provide quick, accurate, and cost-effective product analysis. The researchers created a global model for corn kernel analysis, which can predict moisture and protein content with high accuracy across different locations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalBiomass and Bioenergy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 27, 2024

Are birds flying atoms?

A new study by an international team, including MIT and CNRS, observed that similarities exist between the behavior of birds in flight and physical systems. The research suggests that the transition from disorder to coordination is not as different between particles and biological elements as previously thought.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Statistical Mechanics Theory and Experiment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

Balancing fairness and welfare in the face of uncertainty

A mathematical model developed by Chris Zobel and colleagues optimizes resource allocation in urban infrastructure while considering social vulnerabilities and projected sea level rise impacts. The approach prioritizes investments that enhance resilience and mitigate socio-economic disparities, enabling informed decision-making that ba...

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateAug 5, 2024

Analogies for modeling belief dynamics

Several common analogies used to model belief dynamics are examined for their conceptual mileage and baggage. The authors argue that while these analogies can provide useful concepts and methodologies, they have limitations and can lead to inaccurate inferences. To construct accurate models, researchers should consider multiple sources...

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJul 29, 2024

Balancing instability and robustness: new mathematical framework to understand dynamics of natural systems

Researchers introduce ghost channels and cycles to understand transient behaviors in complex systems like climate processes or neuronal networks. This new approach challenges traditional concepts based on stable or unstable equilibria, potentially helping predict tipping cascades and ecosystem degradation.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior - caesar·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 26, 2024

Method enables fast, accurate estimates of cardiovascular state to inform blood pressure management

A new mathematical method, validated with experimental animal data, provides fast, reliable, and minimally invasive way of determining how to treat critical blood pressure changes. The method accurately tracks cardiac output and systemic resistance, mirroring estimates from more invasive catheters in some cases.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2024

When to let Amazon sell for you

New research from Texas McCombs suggests that small sellers have more options than previously thought. The study modeled the interactions between companies and consumers, considering factors like other channels, number of players, and substitutability. Sellers can choose to retain control over their prices or sell to Amazon, weighing t...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateJul 15, 2024

Prosocial influencers can promote societal cooperation

A modeling study suggests that prosocial behaviors can arise and be maintained in large societies through various mechanisms, including influencers who recruit neighbors to cooperate. The strategy produced similar results as strong leadership that prevents detected defectors from defecting again.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 2, 2024

Simulating blood flow dynamics for improved nanoparticle drug delivery

A team of engineers has created a new mathematical model to accurately simulate the effects of blood flow on the adhesion and retention of nanoparticle drug carriers. The model, developed by University of Illinois professors Arif Masud and Hyunjoon Kong, was tested in vitro and demonstrated promising results.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 27, 2024

Heart failure in space: scientists calculate potential health threats facing future space tourists in microgravity

Researchers used a model of the heart and lung system to simulate how microgravity could affect space tourists with underlying health issues, such as heart conditions. The study found that entry into microgravity increases cardiac output in all individuals, but for heart failure patients, this increase is accompanied by a dangerous ris...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 21, 2024

Hidden mechanisms behind hermaphroditic plant self-incompatibility revealed

A new study presents an evolutionary-biophysical model that sheds light on the evolution of collaborative non-self recognition self-incompatibility in plants. The model introduces promiscuous molecular interactions, enhancing our understanding of genetic diversity and evolution in hermaphroditic plants.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 18, 2024

Researchers shed light on cause of 'happy hypoxia' in COVID-19 patients

A team of researchers has made a breakthrough discovery about the mysterious condition known as 'happy hypoxia,' which affects some COVID-19 patients despite critically low blood-oxygen saturation. Elevated hemoglobin levels in certain patients' blood may play a key role in enabling the respiratory system to sustain low oxygen levels w...

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalBiological Cybernetics·DateJun 17, 2024

Simplicity versus adaptability: Understanding the balance between habitual and goal-directed behaviors

A new study on learning has provided insights into the balance between habitual and goal-directed behaviors, with implications for AI development. The research suggests that a balance between these two types of behavior is necessary for efficient and adaptable decision-making in AI systems.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 16, 2024

Researchers developed a model that allows a computer to understand human emotions

A new AI model developed by researchers at the University of Jyvåskilö can predict and respond to human emotions, improving user experience. The model simulates cognitive evaluation processes to assess emotional responses to events, enabling computers to preemptively predict and mitigate negative emotions.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 4, 2024