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Science News for September 8, 2016


Gladstone investigator receives $5.8M career grant

Katerina Akassoglou, a Gladstone Senior Investigator, has been awarded a $5.8M NINDS grant to advance her research on the role of brain's vascular and immune systems in neurological diseases. The grant will enable her lab to pursue innovative solutions for devastating conditions like multiple sclerosis.

SourceGladstone Institutes·DateSep 8, 2016

Male chemistry primes females for reproduction -- but at a cost

A research team has discovered that male animals trigger female reproduction through their chemical signals, which also hasten females' aging process. The study found two distinct signals produced by males that affect female physiology, with one causing earlier puberty and the other slowing down aging.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2016

Measuring forces in the DNA molecule

Scientists at Technical University of Munich successfully measured base-pair bonding strength for the first time on single base pairs. The results may help understand mechanical aspects of biological processes and aid in constructing precise molecular machines out of DNA.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 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.

Prisons could unlock hep C-free future

A new study found that prisons can drive down hepatitis C prevalence and help reach global WHO elimination goals by providing a unique environment for treatment and addressing risk behaviors. Introducing prevention programs in prisons and amongst individuals transitioning back to the community could significantly reduce infections.

SourceInternational Network for Hepatitis C in Substance Users·DateSep 8, 2016

Giraffes more speciose than expected

Scientists have reclassified giraffes into four distinct species based on genetic analysis, revealing new insights into their biology and conservation needs. The study highlights the urgent need for protection efforts to safeguard these endangered animals in Africa.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2016

Sharing stories synchronizes group memories

Researchers found that synchronizing collective memories through conversation leads to similar recall and forgetting patterns within groups. This phenomenon, known as mnemonic convergence, is influenced by both individual recall and group interactions.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

Increasing stocking rate may not lead to greater nitrogen leaching on dairy farms

A new study in New Zealand found that higher stocking rates per grazing area led to less nitrogen leached to groundwater, contradicting the notion that more cows result in increased leaching. The experiment showed a decline in NO3-N leached per hectare with increasing stocking rate and decreasing nitrogen intake and output per cow.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateSep 8, 2016

Containing our 'electromagnetic pollution'

Researchers at Drexel University discovered that a few-atoms-thin titanium carbide material called MXene can effectively block electromagnetic radiation. The material's high electrical conductivity and two-dimensional structure make it ideal for shielding devices without adding significant weight.

SourceDrexel University·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016
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.

Chemists devise revolutionary 3-D bone-scanning technique

A new scanning technique produces extremely high-res 3D images of bones without exposing patients to X-ray radiation. The technique uses biologically safe nanoagents that target calcium-rich surfaces in damaged bones, providing detailed blueprints of weakness or injury.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalChem·DateSep 8, 2016
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.

Can some types of fat protect us from brain disease?

Researchers discovered a newly discovered stress response pathway that relies on fat molecules to mediate cellular health, reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. The study found that certain types of fat may protect against brain disease by preventing protein aggregates.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

Researchers uncover new potential genetic links to common brain disorder

A five-year study has identified 30 inherited genes linked to intellectual disability, a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 213 million worldwide. The discovery could lead to DNA screenings and personalized therapeutic protocols to improve intellectual function.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 8, 2016

Feed a virus, starve a bacterial infection?

A new study published in Cell found that providing nutrients to mice with viral infections can help them survive, while those with bacterial infections die when fed. The researchers discovered that the brain's metabolic needs differ depending on the type of infection, which may have implications for designing clinical trials.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

Steroid treatment for IVF problems may do more harm than good

Research suggests corticosteroids may impair healthy pregnancy, increasing risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and birth defects. Women taking these drugs during pregnancy have a 64% increase in miscarriage and a 3-4 times greater risk of cleft palate.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateSep 8, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

More underrepresented students obtain science degrees & pursue STEM, due to research mentoring

A new study by John Jay College's PRISM program reveals that undergraduate research experiences lead to nearly tripled graduation rates among science majors and a significant increase in students pursuing graduate degrees and STEM careers. The program has also improved student pipeline to post-graduate professional careers in STEM fields.

SourceThe City University of New York·JournalJournal of Research in Science Teaching·DateSep 8, 2016

Seeing energized light-active molecules proves quick work for Argonne scientists

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory capture atomic and electronic arrangements within a metalloporphyrin molecule using ultrafast X-rays. The study reveals an extremely short-lived transient state that lasts only a few hundred femtoseconds, which is crucial for the development of solar fuels.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 8, 2016
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.

Teens are less likely to select sugary beverages that contain health warning labels

A new study found that teens are 15% less likely to select sugary beverages with health warning labels. The study, led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, suggests that warning labels can educate adolescents about the dangers of sugar-sweetened drinks and contribute to healthier choices.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

Human hookworm infection exerts high health and economic burden

A new study estimates that human hookworm infection results in over 4 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) globally, with China facing up to $6.7 billion in productivity losses annually. The infection is estimated to cost between $7.5 billion and $138.9 billion in productivity losses worldwide.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 8, 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.

A tenth of the world's wilderness lost since the 1990s

Catastrophic declines in wilderness areas have occurred globally over the last two decades, with almost 10% of the world's land area lost. The Amazon and Central Africa have been severely impacted, highlighting the need for international policies to protect remaining wilderness.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2016

Down regulation of microRNA-155 may underlie age-related hypertension

A study published in JCI Insight found that age-related reductions of microRNA-155 may underlie age-associated hypertension. Mice lacking mineralocorticoid receptors in smooth muscle cells were protected from developing high blood pressure as they aged, and restoration of miR-155 improved blood pressure parameters.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateSep 8, 2016

European region most skeptical in the world on vaccine safety

The European region is the most skeptical about vaccine safety, with seven countries ranking low in confidence. A global survey of nearly 66,000 people across 67 countries found that public trust in vaccines is precarious and influenced by concerns over side effects and scientific debates.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalEBioMedicine·DateSep 8, 2016
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.

Healthy Eating standards still not fully adopted among YMCA after-school programs

A recent study found that none of the 20 YMCA-operated after-school programs in South Carolina met all five Healthy Eating standards. The programs served fruits and vegetables on a greater number of days, but were deficient in serving whole grains, water, and limiting sugar-sweetened beverages.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateSep 8, 2016

Borderline personality disorder -- as scientific understanding increases, improved clinical management needed

A new special issue in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry presents updated research on borderline personality disorder (BPD), emphasizing improved diagnosis and management. The article highlights key findings, including neurobiological models, early intervention strategies, and evidence-based treatments for BPD.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateSep 8, 2016

Initiating DNA Repair

Researchers discovered that c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activates SIRT6 to repair broken DNA strands. The study found that JNK modifies a specific amino acid residue on SIRT6, allowing it to recruit the enzyme PARP1 to damaged sites.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 8, 2016

With MRI technique, brain scientists induce feelings about faces

Researchers used the DecNef technique to associate neutral faces with positive or negative feelings in volunteers, resulting in changes in facial preferences. The study suggests that the cingulate cortex is involved in handling both sides of emotion, leading to significant changes in ratings for faces rated as positive or negative.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 8, 2016
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.

Cancer cells metastasize by hitching a ride on platelets

Researchers found that platelet α6β1 integrin promotes interactions between tumor cells and platelets, leading to decreased lung metastasis in mice. Antibody-mediated blockade of α6β1 integrin inhibited tumor metastasis in murine models of breast cancer and melanoma.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateSep 8, 2016

Study shows how Chinese medicine kills cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have shown how a complex mix of plant compounds derived from ancient clinical practice in China kills cancer cells. The study characterised the molecular action of a Traditional Chinese Medicine, finding that it alters cell cycle regulation to push cancer cells down the death pathway.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 8, 2016

Ants have dual navigation systems

A new study reveals that certain ants can rely solely on optic flow to find their way back to their nest when lost. This unique system allows them to calculate distance independently of their internal odometer mechanism, giving them two navigation systems.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

IU and Regenstrief's OPTIMISTIC named one of 20 top geriatric studies of 21st century

The OPTIMISTIC study aims to improve care and communication within nursing facilities and between them and acute-care institutions. The program focuses on early detection and prevention of problems such as medication errors and delayed recognition of changes in medical status, resulting in reduced health decline and hospitalization.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 8, 2016
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Kymouse success in steps to developing HIV vaccine

Researchers have developed a new approach to creating human vaccines against HIV using Kymouse, a genetically modified mouse that mimics human antibody responses. The study found that Kymouse can produce antibodies of the type needed for protection, suggesting ways to improve immunization regimes.

SourceDon Powell Associates Ltd·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

Tracing the path of pygmies' shared knowledge of medicinal plants

A team of researchers found that marital bonds and cooperative activities play a crucial role in passing down plant knowledge among the BaYaka Pygmies. They discovered that certain plants were used to detect and punish cheaters, highlighting the social significance of plant use.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2016
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Life after Fitbit: Appealing to those who feel guilty vs. free

Researchers found that people who abandoned personal informatics tracking experienced no real difference in their lives, but had varied emotional responses. They also discovered that lapsed users responded differently to seeing their old Fitbit data presented in new ways, depending on their personal tracking history.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateSep 8, 2016

The history of beer yeast

Researchers sequenced genomes of 157 yeast strains used in brewing and found that industrial yeast came from just a few ancestral strains. Genetic patterns revealed clues on when yeast was first domesticated and how humans shaped its development.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

How do shark teeth bite? Reciprocating saw, glue provide answers

A University of Washington study found that shark teeth shape influences biting performance, with some species' teeth cutting better and dulling faster than others. The research used a reciprocating saw and glue to test tooth performance under realistic conditions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateSep 8, 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.

Academies announce winners of 2016 Communication Awards

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recognized outstanding science communicators with the 2016 Communication Awards. Deborah Cramer won for her book 'The Narrow Edge,' while NPR's Christopher Joyce and Alison Richards took home the award for their film/TV series 'Close Listening: Decoding Nature Through Sound.'

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

10 new projects to be supported under Joint DOE user facility initiative

The U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute has accepted 10 new research projects to harness the combined power of genomics and molecular characterization, exploring pressing questions in energy, environment, and basic research. The selected proposals focus on topics such as plant-microbe interactions, biofuels, and biogeochem...

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·DateSep 8, 2016

'Deeply unsettling' weight discrimination in the workplace highlighted

Research reveals that even marginal increases in weight negatively impact female job prospects in service sector jobs. Workplace discrimination against those of 'normal' weight is not new, but women face greater bias, highlighting unrealistic societal expectations and practical implications for employers.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 8, 2016
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.

Curious travelers: Your pictures can help preserve world heritage

Researchers from UK universities are launching a project to digitally reconstruct archaeological sites destroyed or damaged due to conflict, cultural vandalism, and natural disasters. The 'Curious Travellers' initiative aims to collect publicly donated content to recreate 3D models of monuments and ancient sites.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·DateSep 8, 2016

Bacteria supply their allies with munitions

Bacteria can share molecular spear guns and toxic molecules with closely related strains, allowing them to reuse proteins and produce new weapons. This cooperation enables bacteria to form a survival advantage against competitors, recycling harpooned proteins and toxins to assemble their own T6SSs.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 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.

COPD exacerbations lead to lung function decline, particularly among those with mild COPD

Research published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are associated with significant long-term lung function loss. Those with mild COPD experienced the greatest FEV1 decline, with each exacerbation linked to an additional 23 m...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

Study reveals how new experiences boost memory formation

A study by the University of Edinburgh has found that attention-grabbing experiences activate a specific area of the brain, releasing memory-boosting chemicals. Researchers discovered that mice who had new experiences just before or after learning a new location remembered it better the next day.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateSep 8, 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.

Paying do-gooders makes them less persuasive

Research suggests that financial incentives for fundraisers can compromise their ability to convey sincerity, leading to lower donation rates. Despite this, incentives may still engage unmotivated individuals and recruit top talent.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 8, 2016

Teenage weight gain down to dramatic drop in calories they burn

A 12-year-long study found that teenage calorie expenditure drops by up to 500 fewer calories while at rest during puberty, contributing to excess weight gain and obesity. The research also revealed a significant decline in physical activity among teenagers during this period.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateSep 8, 2016

Linking RNA structure and function

Researchers at MIT deciphered the structure of a long noncoding RNA and found that it interacts with a protein to control heart muscle cell development. The study reveals the importance of RNA structure in understanding its function, which could lead to new therapeutic approaches for cardiovascular disease.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 8, 2016

New electrical stimulation therapy may improve hand function after stroke

A new electrical stimulation therapy helped stroke survivors with hand weakness improve hand dexterity more than an existing technique. The therapy, which allows patients to control the stimulation through a wearable glove, showed greater improvement in hand function for those less than two years post-stroke.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 8, 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.

A microRNA signature for infantile hemangioma

A set of microRNAs, known as C19MC, was found to be specific to infantile hemangiomas and detectable in patient plasma. These microRNAs may serve as biomarkers for IH diagnosis and treatment monitoring, with levels decreasing before tumor regression but rebounding upon re-growth.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateSep 8, 2016

How effective is a smartphone app in teaching sexual health to teen girls?

A new smartphone application was found to be an effective tool for teaching comprehensive sexual health to adolescent girls. The study, published in the Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, shows a significant increase in participants' knowledge and practical use of contraception after using the app.

SourceCare New England·JournalJournal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology·DateSep 8, 2016
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 estimates numbers of people with Down syndrome in the US since 1950

A new study estimated the number of people with Down syndrome in the US from 1950 to 2010, revealing a significant underestimation. The study found that the total number of individuals with Down syndrome was approximately 206,366 in 2010, with significant differences among ethnic and racial groups.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

A cinematic approach to drug resistance

Researchers created a device called MEGA plate to observe bacteria adapting to increasing antibiotic doses, revealing key insights into the spread of resistance. The study provides a powerful visualization of bacterial movement and evolution.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

New suicide prevention strategies for homosexual and transgender youth

A new study highlights the importance of strengthening family support as a key intervention in preventing suicide among homosexual, bisexual, and transgender (SGM) youth. The research emphasizes the need for an intersectional approach to address SGM-specific challenges, including health needs and stigma.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateSep 8, 2016
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.

Study looks at how parents use newborn screening results

A study found that parents want to know if they're carriers of genetic diseases, despite international guidelines against identifying infant carriers through newborn screening. Many parents don't use the information or use it inappropriately, sharing news with extended family members without consent.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

Study: A tenth of the world's wilderness lost since the 1990s

Researchers report catastrophic declines in global wilderness areas over the last 20 years, with an estimated 3.3 million km2 of wilderness lost, primarily in South America and Africa. The study emphasizes the urgent need for proactive global interventions to protect remaining wilderness areas.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 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.

Reactive oxygen species switch immune cells from migratory to murderous

Neutrophils, the body's immune superheroes, switch from migrating to murdering invaders when exposed to reactive oxygen species. A receptor called TRPM2 senses ROS levels and triggers a shutdown of migration, allowing neutrophils to focus on killing bacteria and other pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 8, 2016

The evolution of antibiotic resistance, on a plate

A new study reveals that bacteria can evolve resistance to antibiotics by adapting to intermediate concentrations, and that spatial location plays a role in their success. Mutations that increased resistance often came at the cost of reduced growth, which was subsequently restored by additional compensatory mutations.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

Hip fractures: Most elderly unlikely to fully recover

A new study published in Journal of General Internal Medicine found that most elderly individuals who suffer a hip fracture will not regain their pre-injury level of physical activity or independence. The likelihood of recovery was particularly low for those over 85, with dementia, or multiple comorbid conditions.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 8, 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.

NASA takes parting look at Hermine

Post-Tropical Cyclone Hermine was still producing light to moderate showers with maximum sustained winds of about 58 mph as it rotated in the Atlantic Ocean. NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission detected heavy rainfall rates exceeding 1.1 inches per hour in various areas of the storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 8, 2016

Training human antibodies to protect against HIV

Scientists describe a multi-step method to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies in genetically engineered mice, which can recognize multiple HIV mutations. This approach offers a starting point for developing an HIV vaccine that could prevent infection or cure the systemic illness.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

Is Internet service reaching marginalized groups?

A new study by Nils B. Weidmann and colleagues found that politically excluded groups in countries with strong government control have lower internet access rates compared to more powerful groups. The researchers used the Ethnic Power Relations database to analyze internet availability among marginalized groups and found significant di...

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

Brain connections are more sophisticated than thought

Duke University scientists have identified 140 previously unknown proteins at inhibitory synapses, crucial for preventing overexcitement in the brain. The discovery opens new avenues to understanding and treating autism, intellectual disability, and epilepsy.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

Tamoxifen resistance linked to high estrogen levels in utero

An animal study suggests that resistance to tamoxifen therapy in some estrogen receptor positive breast cancers may originate from in utero exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals. Researchers identified four genes linked to tamoxifen resistance and poor prognosis of breast cancer.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 8, 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.

How the brain builds panoramic memory

Researchers found two brain regions, RSC and OPA, involved in creating panoramic memories. Participants performed better identifying linked images through immersive virtual reality headsets.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2016

After long-term follow-up, study looks at prognostic factors for breast cancer

A new long-term analysis of prognostic factors among patients with breast cancer reveals that young age and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) adjacent to invasive tumors are associated with increased ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence. High-grade invasive tumors also relapsed more frequently during the first five years.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateSep 8, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

A more accurate sensor for lead paint

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new molecular gel recipe that enables accurate detection of lead in paint chips. The test uses heat and chemical reactions to distinguish between safe and hazardous levels of lead, making it easier for homeowners to assess their risk.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 8, 2016

New vaccination strategies coach immune system to make HIV-neutralizing antibodies

Researchers have successfully developed new approaches to induce HIV-blocking antibodies in mice with human-like immune systems. The studies showed that a prime shot combined with booster shots of immunogens can activate precursor cells to produce neutralizing antibodies, paving the way for future clinical studies.

SourceInternational AIDS Vaccine Initiative·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Genetic analysis uncovers 4 species of giraffe, not just 1

A new study has identified four highly distinct groups of giraffe, each with its own genetic profile, indicating they should be recognized as four separate species. The researchers hope this discovery will lead to targeted conservation efforts for the endangered species.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2016

Avoiding 'traffic jam' creates impossibly bright 'lighthouse'

A team of researchers found a way for neutron stars to avoid the 'traffic jam' that limits their brightness, enabling them to become hundreds of times brighter than expected. This discovery challenges current understanding and provides new insights into the nature of these mysterious objects.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Japan·DateSep 8, 2016

Diabetes: Risk factor air pollution

Exposure to air pollution at home increases the risk of developing insulin resistance, a pre-diabetic state of type 2 diabetes. The study analyzed data from nearly 3,000 participants and found that people with impaired glucose metabolism are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalDiabetes·DateSep 8, 2016

Newly deciphered structure suggests how infectious prions replicate

A team of researchers has discovered the three-dimensional structure of infectious prions, revealing a four-rung β-solenoid architecture that allows for replication. This finding rules out existing theories and proposes a novel templating mechanism involving protein-protein interactions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 8, 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.

Beer yeasts are dogs, wine yeasts are cats

Researchers found that beer yeasts have been domesticated in the 16th century, leading to stronger signs of adaptation. In contrast, wine yeasts show fewer signs of domestication due to their limited interaction with humans.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

New strategy may help prevent kidney failure in patients with diabetes

A newly developed compound inhibits high blood sugar's deleterious effects on kidney cells and slows kidney disease progression in diabetic mice. It protects kidneys in early and advanced phases of diabetes, improves function, and reduces inflammation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 8, 2016

Fool me twice... A novel 'Trojan horse' antibody circumvents ebolavirus infections

Scientists have developed a two-pronged antibody that can counteract the unique immune-evasion mechanism of filoviruses like Ebola. The antibody, called a 'Trojan horse' antibody, targets the glycoprotein on the outside of the virus and prevents it from associating with a specific host-cell receptor in the endosome.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

X-rays: The first & best screening tool in diagnosing knee pain among middle-aged patients

A study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that X-rays are the most effective diagnostic tool for knee pain in middle-aged patients. The study suggests that weight-bearing X-rays should be obtained before an MRI to screen for knee pain, as they can often provide enough information for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateSep 8, 2016

UBC research could help local governments plan together

A new approach to modelling land use change developed at UBC enhances existing computer planning models, enabling planners to consider neighboring land-use patterns. The CLUE-S modeling system was adapted to facilitate regional planning and collaboration among bordering jurisdictions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateSep 8, 2016

Nijmegen breakage syndrome: Molecular pathways that lead to microcephaly

Researchers generated induced pluripotent stem cells from Nijmegen breakage syndrome patients and found that the P53 gene plays a crucial role in neural development, leading to cancer and neurological impairments. The study provides a powerful tool for understanding the disease and may lead to new treatments.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 8, 2016

Can an integrative medicine approach help prevent medical errors?

A new integrative approach to healthcare aims to reduce medical errors, which are the third leading cause of death in the US. By focusing on whole-person, whole-system care, this model seeks to deliver individualized health-focused care that promotes fewer and shorter hospital stays.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

New insights into tumor-infiltrating T cells

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital identified a distinct gene module for T cell dysfunction, contributing to chronic disease states like cancer and chronic viral infections. A transcription factor, Gata-3, was found to play a crucial role in T cell dysfunction, offering new avenues for targeted therapy.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

Newly discovered infectious prion structure shines light on mad cow disease

Scientists at the University of Alberta have identified the structure of the infectious prion protein, a misfolded protein causing BSE, Chronic Wasting Disease, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease. The breakthrough study uses electron cryomicroscopy technology to reveal how infectious prions replicate and propagate.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 8, 2016

Critical information needed in fight to save wildlife

A global campaign is proposed to gather essential biological information to improve climate change predictions for biodiversity. Current predictions fail to account for critical factors like species competition and movement, leading to inaccurate outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016