ScienceDaily: All - April 01, 2025
Today's top research news
A study presents a striking example of cooperative organization among cells as a potential force in the evolution of multicellular life. The study is based on the fluid dynamics of cooperative feeding by Stentor, a relatively giant unicellular organism.
Clinical trial unearths hidden hypertension with automated searches of health records
A trial of 648 patients found that the new automated method and intervention strategy resulted in nearly four times as many diagnoses and treatment plans for high blood pressure compared with traditional office-based health care visits.
Discovery of Quina technology challenges view of ancient human development in East Asia
Researchers have uncovered a complete Quina technological system in the Longtan site in southwest China. The discovery challenges the widely held perception that the Middle Paleolithic period was mostly static in East Asia.
Study shows groundwater gains in Arizona yet climate risks still threaten water supply
A combination of water management practices has contributed to notable groundwater gains in Central Arizona despite the region dealing with long-term water stress, according to a new study.
My robot therapist: The ethics of AI mental health chatbots for kids
AI mental health apps may offer a cheap and accessible way to fill the gaps in the overstretched U.S. mental health care system, but ethics experts warn that we need to be thoughtful about how we use them, especially with children.
Scientists pioneer method to tackle 'forever chemicals'
Researchers have developed an innovative solution to a pressing environmental challenge: removing and destroying per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly called 'forever chemicals.' A new study unveils a method that not only eliminates PFAS from water systems but also transforms waste into high-value graphene, offering a cost-effective and sustainable approach to environmental remediation.
PTSD can undermine healthy couple communication when people fear their emotions
Fear of emotions among couples with PTSD is associated with unproductive communication, according to a new study.
The proportion of harmful substances in particulate matter is much higher than assumed
People breathing contaminated air over the course of years are at greater risk of developing numerous diseases. This is thought to be due to highly reactive components in particulate matter, which affect biological processes in the body. However, researchers have now shown that precisely these components disappear within hours and that previous measurements therefore completely underestimate the quantities in which they are present.
Scientists solve 'cocktail party' mystery of bat echolocation
Every night, bats emerge out of roosts in massive numbers, creating what scientists have called a 'cocktail party nightmare' of clashing echolocations. Nobody knew how bats managed this severe sensorial challenge. Now, scientists have tracked bats within a group of thousands to find out: when bats first emerge from the roost, they increase their distance from the center of the group and adjust their echolocation to maneuver safely in the areas of highest bat density.
Highly accurate blood test diagnoses Alzheimer's disease, measures extent of dementia
A newly developed blood test for Alzheimer's disease not only aids in the diagnosis of the neurodegenerative condition but also indicates how far it has progressed, according to a new study.
Bioelectronic devices, neural interfaces, biosensors and AI hardware are now easier to make thanks to a streamlined method for fabricating a key material.
New AI models possible game-changers within protein science and healthcare
Researchers have developed new AI models that can vastly improve accuracy and discovery within protein science. Potentially, the models will assist the medical sciences in overcoming present challenges within, e.g. personalised medicine, drug discovery, and diagnostics.
Delicate balancing act determines how many genome gateways form in cells
As warehouses go, nuclei are more like libraries than bank vaults. Too many cellular components need access to the genome to lock it down like Fort Knox. Instead, large groupings of more than 1,000 individual protein molecules called nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) pepper the dividing membrane, serving as gateways for materials and messages entering and exiting the nucleus. While the basic need for this shuttle service is constant, scientists have shown that cells dynamically adjust their amounts of NPCs like a retail store opening more or fewer checkout lines throughout the day. Scientists now reveal the results of screening the entire human genome to find factors influencing how many NPCs are assembled.
Change in oxygen standards for trauma patients?
A recent study finds most critically injured patients can recover with less supplemental oxygen than has previously been suggested.
New research reveals that lower proportions of specific sleep stages are associated with reduced brain volume in regions vulnerable to the development of Alzheimer's disease over time.
Machine learning model to predict virus reservoirs
A new artificial intelligence tool could aid in limiting or even prevent pandemics by identifying animal species that may harbor and spread viruses capable of infecting humans. The machine learning model analyzes host characteristics and virus genetics to identify potential animal reservoirs and geographic areas where new outbreaks are more likely to occur.
Common anticancer drugs may offer new hope to PTEN Hamartoma Tumour Syndrome patients
A new study on the genetic causes of the PTEN Hamartoma Tumour Syndrome (PHTS) has found that inhibitors of the PI3ka pathway, commonly used as anticancer drugs, are also effective against this disease, reducing the extent of vascular malformations and lesion-associated pain in animal models. The research suggests the repurposing of these drugs may offer a new hope for PHTS patients, especially at younger ages.
Martian dust could pose health risks to future astronauts
Inhaling dust particles from the Red Planet over long periods of time could put humans at risk of developing respiratory issues, thyroid disease and other health problems.
Thinner Arctic sea ice may affect global ocean circulation
One of the ocean currents in the Arctic Ocean is at risk of disappearing this century because of climate change, according to a new study. As a result, the North Atlantic could be flooded with freshwater which would weaken the global ocean circulation.
Efficient light control: Meta-optics replace conventional lenses
Be it sensors, cameras, or displays: Metasurfaces have the potential to fundamentally improve optical systems in our everyday lives. By controlling light more precisely, they drive compact, multi-functional solutions. Researchers have now developed an optical component that enables highly efficient light control at steep angles of incidence, overcoming previous limitations.
Preventable cardiac deaths during marathons are down
New findings indicate that while the rate of marathon runners who suffer cardiac arrests remained unchanged, their chance for survival is twice what it was in the past. Now, far fewer marathon runners who suffer cardiac arrest are dying of it.
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Always so much great information in Science Daily. 👍🏼