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Science News for December 9, 2016


Study reveals drug interactions that may reduce mortality in breast cancer patients

Researchers identified two drug combinations that could improve survival rates for breast cancer patients, including anti-inflammatory and lipid modifiers. The study analyzed data from nearly 10,000 women with breast cancer and found three pairs of drug interactions associated with better outcomes.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateDec 9, 2016

Monkey speak: Macaques have the anatomy, not the brain, for human speech

Research reveals that macaques possess the physical attributes necessary to produce intelligible human speech, yet their brains lack the neural circuitry required for this ability. This finding debunks the idea that vocal anatomy alone limits speech in nonhumans, highlighting the importance of brain evolution in human language.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 9, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Home-based rehabilitation improves daily life of people with low vision

A Cardiff University study found that home-based rehabilitation significantly improves visual function and daily life for people with low vision. Home visits by visual rehabilitation officers led to a greater improvement in visual function compared to standard hospital appointments.

SourceCardiff University·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateDec 9, 2016

Finger swipe-powered phone? We're 1 step closer

Michigan State University researchers have developed a low-cost nanogenerator that can harness energy from human motion, powering devices such as smartphones and headsets without batteries. The device, called FENG, is flexible, biocompatible, and scalable, with advantages including being lightweight and robust.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNano Energy·DateDec 9, 2016

Diet, the gut microbiome, and colorectal cancer: are they linked?

Recent evidence suggests a link between the gut microbiome and colorectal cancer development, with specific types of intestinal bacteria contributing to disease progression. Dietary-based therapeutic interventions, such as probiotics and prebiotics, may help modify the gut microbiome to reduce CRC risk.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBioResearch Open Access·DateDec 9, 2016
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.

Research offers clues about the timing of Jupiter's formation

Scientists have found that Jupiter's massive gravity may have formed rare, high-velocity meteorites called CB chondrites. These meteorites suggest Jupiter was near its current size and in the asteroid belt when they were formed, about 5 million years after the solar system solidified.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 9, 2016

A step to understanding polymorphs

Researchers study organizing principles behind high Z' crystal structures to understand material properties like solubility and bioavailability. By analyzing complex structures, they identify organization principles tied to chemical molecule details.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section B·DateDec 9, 2016
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.

UNIST receives Minister of Public Safety and Security commendation

A UNIST research team led by Professor Joonbum Bae received a commendation from the Minister of Public Safety and Security for their groundbreaking collaborative rescue robots. The award recognizes their work on humanoid avatar robots with a teleoperating system that can be deployed in disaster response.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateDec 9, 2016

Breast cancer mortality rates decline in many countries

Global breast cancer mortality rates declined between 1987-2013, with 39 countries showing a decrease, including the US and most developed European nations. However, South Korea experienced an 83% increase, while Latin America saw scattered increases in mortality, except for Argentina and Chile.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 9, 2016

New study highlights smoking intensity in coronary heart disease risk

A new study found that smoking intensity and duration are crucial factors in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. Researchers discovered that smokers with longer exposure to cigarettes face a higher relative risk of heart disease compared to those who smoke the same number of cigarettes over a shorter period.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateDec 9, 2016

Federal funds help Virginia increase wetland benefits

The EPA awards $1.1 million in grants to Virginia's VIMS and DEQ to protect and restore its wetlands, advancing the state's goal of preventing net loss and increasing ecological function. The funding will support efforts to identify vulnerable wetlands, develop management plans, and inform decision-making for development and preservation.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·DateDec 9, 2016

Neutrons identify key ingredients of the quantum spin liquid recipe

A team of researchers used neutron scattering to study the origins of unusual magnetic behavior in a rare earth metal oxide, revealing three key features: antiferromagnetic interactions, spin space anisotropy, and chemical disorder. These findings provide a better understanding of how quantum spin liquids exhibit exotic behaviors.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 9, 2016
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Sexual harassment common among middle school children, study finds

A recent study by University of Illinois researcher Dorothy L. Espelage found that nearly half of middle school students reported experiencing verbal sexual harassment, with 43% saying they were targeted in the past year. The study also revealed that students who dismissed their experiences with sexual harassment were more likely to pe...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateDec 9, 2016

Clarifying the behaviors of negative hydrogen ions

Scientists at NIFS successfully measure flow reversal of negative ions, revealing U-turn trajectory and beam extraction point. The study's findings improve performance of negative ion sources, essential for future fusion devices.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNuclear Fusion·DateDec 9, 2016
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

New evidence shows how bacterium in undercooked chicken causes GBS

A Michigan State University research team discovered that Campylobacter jejuni in undercooked chicken triggers Guillain-Barre Syndrome, an autoimmune disease causing paralysis. The study offers new information for a cure and suggests that treatment with some antibiotics could worsen the disease.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Autoimmunity·DateDec 9, 2016

Scientists reveal how fish adapt to toxic levels of pollution

Researchers found that Atlantic killifish populations can adapt to lethal levels of pollution due to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling pathway. The study suggests that desensitization of this pathway is a key factor in adaptation, but also highlights potential risks and compensatory adaptations.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2016

Researchers watch biomolecules at work

Scientists at the University of Bonn have successfully observed an important cell protein in action using a novel method that measures structural changes within complex molecules. This breakthrough allows researchers to elucidate cellular processes in their natural environment.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 9, 2016
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.

Siobhan Roberts to Receive 2017 JPBM Communications Award

Siobhan Roberts will receive the 2017 JPBM Communications Award for her outstanding work in communicating mathematics to non-mathematicians through her writing. Her award-winning books include 'King of Infinite Space' and 'Genius at Play', which showcase her ability to make complex mathematical concepts accessible to a wide audience.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·DateDec 9, 2016

Breast cancer patients could benefit from controversial hormone

A recent study published in Nature Reviews Cancer suggests that progesterone could be a game-changer in treating recurring breast cancers. The hormone, when used in combination with current treatments, may reprogram estrogen action in the breast to improve cancer outcomes. Two new clinical trials are underway to test this approach.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Reviews Cancer·DateDec 9, 2016
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.

Schiff bases of benzothiazol-2-ylamine and thiazolo[5,4-b] pyridin-2-ylamine

The synthesized compounds showed potent anticonvulsant activity in the MES test, with Schiff bases of benzothiazol-2-ylamine being more effective than thiazolo[5,4-b] pyridin-2-ylamine. The log P values revealed a positive correlation with activity, with the most potent compound being benzothiazol-2-yl-(1H-indol-2-ylmethylene)-amine.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCentral Nervous System Agents in Medicinal Chemistry·DateDec 9, 2016

Study provides new focus for developing drugs to fight cancer

A study led by UC Riverside's Maurizio Pellecchia advocates for focusing on Bfl-1 as a drug target to fight cancer. The research team found that Bfl-1 is more relevant than previously thought and can be targeted with innovative inhibitors.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateDec 9, 2016

Why can't monkeys speak?

A computer model revealed monkeys could easily produce many different sounds, implying a basic form of spoken language could have evolved without changes in vocal anatomy. Monkeys' ability to vocalize was found to be unrelated to their speech capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 9, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Martian mountains, manmade earthquake detection and more from the U at AGU

Researchers presented insights from the Curiosity rover's study of Mount Sharp on Mars, which helps reconstruct the geological history of the area. Additionally, they developed a method to distinguish between natural and manmade earthquakes using seismic wave characteristics. Furthermore, scientists observed gamma-ray bursts triggered ...

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateDec 9, 2016

Older women with breast cancer report better cosmetic satisfaction with less radiation, less surgery

A study published by University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found that older women with breast cancer who underwent less radiation therapy reported improved cosmetic satisfaction. However, reduced radiation was also associated with a slightly increased risk of disease recurrence. The researchers suggest that there may be an opti...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateDec 9, 2016
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.

NASA spots Tropical Cyclone Vardah's off-center strength

Tropical Cyclone Vardah showed strongest storms expanding west of its center, influenced by moderate vertical wind shear. The storm is expected to intensify and make landfall as a tropical storm south of Visakhapatnam, India, by December 12.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 9, 2016

Study finds new pathways to treat non-alcoholic fatty-liver disease

Researchers have found a new pathway in the liver that opens the door to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The pathway involves activating a protein called TRPV4, which releases nitric oxide and blocks an enzyme contributing to the disease.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateDec 9, 2016

Gene identified that drives deadly brain cancer

Scientists identified a gene NAMPT that fuels glioblastoma growth and resistance to radiation therapy. Inhibiting NAMPT may improve treatment outcomes for most aggressive forms of the disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2016

Study finds capuchin monkeys produce sharp stone flakes similar to tools

Researchers have discovered that capuchin monkeys in Brazil produce sharp-edged conchoidal flakes with smooth rounded facets, resembling the shape of scallop shells. These unintentionally produced flakes exhibit identical characteristics and morphology to intentionally produced hominin tools, dating back to 2.6 million years ago.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature·DateDec 9, 2016
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.

Exploring the evolutionary history of the immune system

The study found that human ALOX15 has a higher capacity for producing anti-inflammatory lipid mediators than its lower primate counterparts. This suggests an evolution to better control inflammation and speed up the healing process.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2016

Cloud formation: How feldspar acts as ice nucleus

Feldspar's unique surface defects enable ice crystals to grow, a discovery that sheds light on precipitation formation in clouds. The research found that microscopic edges and cracks on feldspar crystallites serve as active sites for ice nucleation.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2016

Study examines how CEO power affects companies in times of crisis

A new study from UT Dallas finds that bestowing considerable power in the CEO does not create value for the firm during industrywide downturns. Concentrated power among CEOs leads to worse decision-making and a decrease in firm value, especially in competitive industries and high-discretion industries.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalGroup & Organization Management·DateDec 9, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Do cannabis dispensary staff receive sufficient training?

A new study found that only 20% of cannabis dispensary staff have medical or scientific training, despite recommending treatments to patients. The lack of training is concerning, as some recommendations may be ineffective and worsen patient conditions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCannabis and Cannabinoid Research·DateDec 9, 2016

Ancient enzyme morphed shape to carry out new functions in humans

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discovered that a human enzyme has evolved to change its shape and function without major architectural changes. This unique ability allows the enzyme to carry out new roles in humans, shedding light on diseases linked to mutations in aminoacyl tRNA synthetases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2016
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.

Cow gene study shows why most clones fail

A new study by researchers from the U.S. and France finds that multiple anomalies in gene expression, including failure to implant and placenta development, contribute to the high rate of pregnancy failure for cloned embryos. The study reveals critical developmental genes and hormonal signaling issues that lead to these failures.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2016

NIH scientists develop new mouse model to study Salmonella meningitis

Researchers at NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases have established a new mouse model to study Salmonella meningitis. The model mimics the progression of the disease from the gastrointestinal tract to the brain, providing a new tool for investigating this potentially life-threatening illness.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateDec 9, 2016
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.

Hydrogen from sunlight -- but as a dark reaction

Scientists have developed a biomimetic photosynthesis approach using graphitic carbon nitride material to store and release light-generated electrons for catalytic hydrogen production. This technology enables the production of storable solar fuels independent of solar irradiation intermittency.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 9, 2016

Oxytocin improves synchronization in leader-follower interaction

A study from Center for Music in the Brain found that oxytocin enhances synchrony in finger-tapping pairs, indicating improved social bonding and prediction skills. The hormone's role in facilitating predictability explains its social effect without subjective affiliation.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 9, 2016