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Science News Archive September 2018


Page 12 of 37

New way to target advanced breast cancers

Researchers have identified a link between inflammation and cancer growth in HER2-negative breast cancers, revealing anakinra as a potential treatment target. Anakinra, an existing anti-inflammatory drug, reduces gene expression of IL1b and other cytokines, improving symptoms and quality of life for some patients.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Surprise finding uncovers balancing act between birth defects and cancer

Subtle changes in protein regulation can cause severe face and brain developmental abnormalities, highlighting the importance of striking a healthy balance between too little and too much cell death. The study suggests that excessive or inadequate cell death during embryonic development can lead to devastating birth defects or cancer.

Simulations enable 'choose-your-own-adventure' stereochemistry

Researchers use computer models to predict how molecules will behave in certain reactions, controlling the emergence of specific products with desired stereochemical structures. This breakthrough enables chemists to design additives that can select the right product outcomes, revealing new insights into chemical processes.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

NASA created rainfall analysis for super Typhoon Mangkhut

NASA used data from Super Typhoon Mangkhut to create a detailed map of the typhoon's rainfall. The analysis revealed heavy precipitation totals, including areas with over 700 mm of rain, and showed the storm's path through the western Pacific Ocean.

Test could detect patients at risk from lethal fungal spores

Scientists have discovered a genetic mutation that increases the amount of dangerous fungal spores in the lungs, making people more susceptible to Aspergillus infections. A new test could detect this mutation and screen patients at risk from lethal fungal spores.

Fish-rich diets may boost babies' brain development

Research suggests that consuming fatty fish during pregnancy can enhance babies' brain function and visual development. The study analyzed 56 mothers and their children, finding that those who ate fish three or more times a week had better test results for visual functioning and maturational changes.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Quick and not-so-dirty: A rapid nano-filter for clean water

Researchers at RMIT University and UNSW have developed a rapid nano-filter that can clean dirty water up to 100 times faster than current technology. The filter harnesses naturally occurring nano-structures on liquid metals, making it sustainable, environmentally-friendly, scalable, and low-cost.

Cancer immunotherapy might benefit from previously overlooked immune players

A recent study found that CD4+ T cell's binding partner, MHC-II, plays a significant role in emerging tumors, suggesting new avenues for improving cancer immunotherapies. The researchers also discovered no correlation between MHC-II's ability to recognize antigens and the age at which patients were diagnosed with cancer.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Few hatchery brook trout genes present in Pennsylvania watershed wild fish

Researchers genotyped 2,000 brook trout in Pennsylvania's Loyalsock Creek watershed and found that over 93% were of genetically wild origin. The study suggests that hatchery-raised brook trout have low fitness and survival rates due to high mortality, making it difficult for them to introduce their genes into the wild population.

Intestines modify their cellular structure in response to diet

The study found that dietary cholesterol alters cellular programming, promoting hormone-producing cells and nutrient-handling cells. Low nutrient availability triggers changes in intestinal structure and metabolism with long-term effects on metabolic health.

MDMA (a.k.a. ecstasy) makes octopuses more social too

Researchers found that octopuses, which are typically solitary and asocial, become more interested in interacting with each other when under the influence of MDMA. The study suggests that common molecular pathways enable serotonin to encode social behaviors in both humans and octopuses.

What's eating these endangered orchids?

A species of seed-feeding fly is critically damaging orchid seeds, threatening their reproduction. The fly reduces seed production by over 95% in five species, putting already-endangered orchids at risk.

In depression the brain region for stress control is larger

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute discovered that individuals with depression have a larger left hypothalamus than those without the disorder. The study found a correlation between the severity of depression and the size of the brain region, but no effect from medication.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Mediterranean-style diet may lower women's stroke risk

A new study led by the University of East Anglia found that following a Mediterranean-style diet high in fish, fruits, and nuts, and low in meat and dairy, may reduce stroke risk in women over 40, with a 22% reduction in risk compared to men who showed no significant reduction.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Gut fungus exacerbates asthma in antibiotic-treated mice

A non-pathogenic fungus can expand in the intestines of antibiotic-treated mice and enhance the severity of allergic airways disease. The study suggests that alterations in gut microbiota induced by intestinal fungi might be a previously unrecognized but potentially important risk factor for patients with asthma.

Basking sharks can jump as high and as fast as great whites

A new study reveals that basking sharks can accelerate to over 90 degrees in just nine seconds, clearing the water at nearly 5.1m/s and reaching a height of 1.2m above the surface. The finding showcases the surprising speed of these gentle giants, dispelling their reputation as slow swimmers.

Putting underused smart devices to work

Researchers at IMDEA Networks Institute are exploring a novel 'DisCoEdge' system to optimize device usage and create new services. The system aims to spread heavy computational tasks and large storage over simple devices, enabling novel applications like cooperative data sharing and corporate storage systems.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Analysis of global fossils informs evolution of mammalian spine

Researchers analyzed fossilized backbones and reconstructions to better understand the evolution of mammals' distinct spinal regions. The study found that forelimb reorganization played a crucial role in driving regionalization across the spine, leading to the varied forms of modern mammals.

Preventing a dengue outbreak at the 2020 Summer Olympics

Researchers identified 20 critical points for disease detection, assessment, and patient communication to strengthen Japan's preparedness plans. Gaps in current controls, including missed cases at accommodations and communication failures, were highlighted.

Climate change modifies the composition of reefs

A recent study found that climate change is causing a shift in reef composition, with gorgonians taking the place of declining coral species in some regions. The research suggests that gorgonians are better adapted to changing conditions due to their flexible trophic structure.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Plug-and-play technology automates chemical synthesis

MIT researchers have developed a plug-and-play technology that automates chemical synthesis, allowing chemists to focus on analytical and creative aspects of their research. The system can optimize reactions in a single day, cutting weeks or months of optimization time.

Even the best healthcare facilities can do more to prevent infections

A recent review of 144 studies found that multifaceted infection control strategies can reduce healthcare-associated infections by 35-55%. Despite advancements in medical innovations, improvements are still possible, especially in high-income countries and institutions with standard-of-care measures.

New research finds annual well visit increases likelihood of preventive services

A new study published in Preventive Medicine found that annual wellness visits significantly increase the delivery of preventive services among the elderly population. The research revealed that participants with an AWV were more likely to undergo screenings for prostate cancer, influenza vaccine, and other recommended services.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Smart pills dumb down medical care, experts warn

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago caution against adopting smart pill technology due to concerns over patient privacy and consent. The technology, which tracks drug regimen compliance, may not improve patients' lives as promised.

Manganese plays a key role in bacterial infection

Enterococcus faecalis relies on manganese acquisition systems for virulence, which are essential for growth in manganese-restricted environments. Inactivating these transporters led to a loss of virulence in animal models, making them promising targets for new antimicrobial therapies.

Fatty acids can slow down an overheated immune system

Researchers from Aarhus University have discovered a new type of fatty acid that can slow down the overactive STING protein, which is normally an important part of our immune system. This breakthrough has opened a new path to developing effective treatments for autoimmune diseases such as Lupus and SAVI.

When mammal ancestors evolved flexible shoulders, their backbones changed too

Scientists discovered that mammals' flexible shoulders played a crucial role in the evolution of their complex backbones. The study found that changes in shoulder structure occurred around 270 million years ago, leading to the development of different spine regions and ultimately contributing to mammal diversification.

Study: Widely used nonprofit efficiency tool doesn't work

A recent study from North Carolina State University found that the overhead ratio, a widely used metric for assessing nonprofit efficiency, is actually negatively correlated with efficiency. The researchers used data from Habitat for Humanity affiliates and two established efficiency analysis tools to demonstrate this problem.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

What can salad dressing tell us about cancer? Think oil and vinegar

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered a connection between the process that causes oil and vinegar to separate in salad dressing and solid tumors like prostate and breast cancer. The study found mutations in the tumor suppressor gene SPOP contribute to cancer by disrupting liquid-liquid phase separation, l...

Boosting emotional intelligence in physicians can protect against burnout

A Loyola Medicine study shows that an educational curriculum for physicians improves their emotional intelligence, stress management, and overall wellness. The study suggests that teaching emotional intelligence skills may improve stress management, promote wellness, and prevent burnout in resident physicians.

Fat from 558 million years ago reveals earliest known animal

Scientists have discovered molecules of fat in an ancient fossil, confirming that animals existed on Earth 558 million years ago. The discovery of the strange creature Dickinsonia, which grew up to 1.4 meters in length, reveals a long-standing mystery about its true identity.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Coastal wetlands will survive rising seas, but only if we let them

A global study predicts that coastal wetlands will increase in area as sea levels rise, but only if humans preserve room for them to migrate inland. The researchers found a key threshold of 20 people per square kilometer, and suggest using 'natural and nature-based features' to expand accommodation space.

TINY cancer detection device proves effective in Uganda testing

Researchers developed a handheld, portable device that can detect Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) with 94% accuracy in resource-limited settings. The Tiny Isothermal Nucleic acid quantification sYstem (TINY) generates results in under 2.5 hours, enabling early detection and better outcomes.

Mathematics meets biology to uncover unexpected biorhythms

A novel mathematical approach has uncovered 12-hour cycles of genetic activity in animal cells, independent of 24-hour circadian rhythms. Laboratory experiments confirm the existence and independence of these cycles, which have significant implications for understanding gene functions over time and their influence on health and disease.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

In cardiac injury, the NSAID carprofen causes dysfunction of the immune system

Researchers found that carprofen pretreatment before experimental heart attack in mice impairs the resolution of acute inflammation after cardiac injury. This leads to a non-resolving inflammation characterized by an amplified CD47 marker on neutrophils, which resists clearance and triggers more inflammatory responses.

Scientists solve the golden puzzle of calaverite

Researchers from Russia and Germany uncover a new gold compound, AuTe2, with incommensurate modulation in its crystal lattice. This discovery solves the long-standing mystery of calaverite's crystal structure, providing insights into its electronic spectra and superconducting capability.