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Science News Archive September 2018 - Page 12


Page 12 of 37

ACA health insurance ads targeted younger, healthier consumers from 2013 to 2016

A study analyzed TV ads for ACA health insurance plans, finding a shift towards targeting younger, healthier individuals and emphasizing financial assistance, as well as a decline in mentions of 'ObamaCare' or 'Affordable Care Act'. The researchers suggest this trend may be related to low public understanding of the law.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateSep 20, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Matter falling into a black hole at 30 percent of the speed of light

Researchers have detected matter falling directly into a black hole for the first time, with gas spiraling in at 30% of the speed of light. The discovery sheds light on chaotic accretion and its implications for supermassive black holes.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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.

SourceSpringer·JournalPediatric Research·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 20, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourcePenn State·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateSep 20, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

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.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceKobe University·JournalEcology·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalActa Psychiatrica Scandinavica·DateSep 20, 2018
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.

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.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalStroke·DateSep 20, 2018

Like our sun, other stars spin faster at the equator than at the poles

Researchers used Kepler spacecraft to monitor stellar oscillations of 40 Sun-like stars, finding signs of differential rotation in some. The equators spin nearly twice as fast as mid-latitudes in the strongest signals, posing a challenge to existing theories.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 20, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

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.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceIMDEA Networks Institute·DateSep 20, 2018
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.

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 20, 2018
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.

Study documents poor mental and physical health in rural borderland community members

A study on inequalities and health among foreign-born Latinos in rural borderland communities found that population is vulnerable to high stress negatively impacting mental and physical health. Historical factors such as oppression of farm labor and current practices like racial profiling contribute to low social status, employment ins...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateSep 20, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

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.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalThe American Journal of Bioethics·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 20, 2018
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.

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.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNonprofit Management and Leadership·DateSep 20, 2018

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...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 20, 2018

Molecular fossils confirm Dickinsonia as one of Earth's earliest animals

Researchers have identified biomarkers in Dickinsonia fossils, confirming it as an early animal and challenging previous interpretations. The findings suggest complex organisms emerged over 542 million years ago, paving the way for the Cambrian explosion of life.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

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.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalAdvances in Medical Education and Practice·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalNature·DateSep 20, 2018
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.

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.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 20, 2018

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.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateSep 20, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

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.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 20, 2018