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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 74


Page 74 of 486

Researchers lift the curtain behind the 'black box' of data broker records

A study by INFORMS journal Marketing Science found that data records used in targeted advertising are not as reliable as assumed, with accuracy rates varying between demographics and interests. The researchers conducted field tests to assess the effectiveness of third-party consumer profiling and found mixed results.

Protein Data Bank at Rutgers Awarded $34.5 million grant

The Protein Data Bank at Rutgers has received a $34.5 million grant over five years to enhance services and improve the quality of its vast repository of 3D biomolecular structures. With more than 150,000 structures available, the data bank plays a crucial role in discovering lifesaving drugs and supporting various fields of research.

Tethered chem combos could revolutionize artificial photosynthesis

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a new approach to artificial photosynthesis that improves the efficiency of capturing light and splitting water molecules to produce hydrogen fuel. The system uses molecular tethers to attach chromophores to catalysts, allowing for stable and efficient electron transfer and ge...

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateNov 4, 2019

Peering into a more 'human' petri dish

Cell culture media has remained relatively unchanged for over 70 years, but Jason Cantor is developing 'physiologic media' that closely mimics real biological conditions. This allows researchers to study cell behavior in a more accurate and relevant way, potentially revealing fundamental insights into human diseases such as blood cancer.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalTrends in Cell Biology·DateNov 4, 2019

Health care provider deserts may leave patients in the cold

Researchers found that people with ACA health insurance are more likely to find themselves in 'artificial provider deserts,' areas with limited coverage, and must travel further to access care. The study highlights the need for consumers to carefully consider their insurance options to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

SourcePenn State·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 4, 2019

Fighting the HIV epidemic

A new study found that stigma about HIV preventive medication (PrEP) use is significantly associated with lower intention to start PrEP among women. The study recommends expanding public messaging, addressing stereotype beliefs, and designing interventions that integrate stigma reduction at the individual and community levels.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalStigma and Health·DateNov 4, 2019

Post-lithium technology

Researchers have developed a high-performance cathode made of an organic polymer for sodium-ion batteries, achieving excellent electrochemical performances. The new material outperforms current polymeric and inorganic cathodes in capacity delivery and retention.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 4, 2019

Complex society discovered in birds

Researchers have discovered a multilevel society in vulturine guineafowl, a small-brained bird species. The study found that the birds form stable groups with hundreds of individuals and associate preferentially with specific other groups, similar to primates.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 4, 2019

Synthetic phages with programmable specificity

Researchers at ETH Zurich have created synthetic phages that can recognize and attack a broader range of bacterial strains, providing a potential solution for treating antibiotic-resistant infections. The synthesized phages share the same genome but have different receptor binding proteins, allowing them to target specific hosts.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 4, 2019

The truth about misinformation

A new study by Anne Hamby and colleagues found that people are more willing to update their memories if something bad has happened to a character, such as a death or serious illness. The researchers discovered that explaining alternative causes of events can help change beliefs and promote tolerance.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateNov 4, 2019

USC stem cell scientists reveal key differences in how kidneys form in men and women

Researchers have discovered significant differences in gene expression between male and female mouse kidneys, shedding light on the organ's complex physiology and potential impact on human kidney disease. The study's findings may help clinicians better understand genetic programs linked to disease and improve treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 4, 2019