Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 27, 2003


Scientists use DNA fragments to trace the migration of modern humans

A new study reveals that modern humans originated from a small ancestral population in sub-Saharan Africa, with genetic splits occurring between hunter-gatherer populations and African farming people around 70,000-140,000 years ago. This finding supports the 'out-of-Africa' theory and provides insights into human migration patterns.

SourceStanford University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 27, 2003

Coastal cities turn up the heat on rainfall

A NASA study found that urban heat islands in coastal cities like Houston cause warmer air to rise, interact with sea breezes, and create heavier rainfall. The study also suggests that this effect may be more pronounced near coasts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalEarth Interactions·DateMay 27, 2003

Slow moving vehicle sign not recognized by drivers

A Penn State researcher found that less than 30% of drivers recognize the Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) sign. The sign's inconsistent day/night appearance and potential confusion with other symbols contribute to the low comprehension rate. Improving motorist education and enforcement could help increase recognition.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Agricultural Safety and Health·DateMay 27, 2003
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.

Residents say 'no' to mammography

A survey of US radiology residents found that most were hesitant to pursue breast imaging training or interpret mammograms due to negative attitudes and perceived drawbacks. The shortage of qualified radiologists is expected to worsen as demand for screening mammography services increases with an aging population.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 27, 2003

Drugs that treat back pain also improve productivity

A study by the University of Alberta has found that giving people drugs to treat back pain can improve performance. The research team led by Dr. Saifee Rashiq ran a randomized controlled trial where participants were injected with a strong narcotic painkiller and completed the Sorensen test, showing a significant increase in functional...

SourceUniversity of Alberta·DateMay 27, 2003

Novel flu vaccine shows promise in mice

A novel flu vaccine developed by The Wistar Institute has generated a strong antibody response in mice, offering hope for a more stable and effective vaccine. The vaccine targets a stable region of the virus, potentially providing long-term protection against flu strains.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalVaccine·DateMay 27, 2003

Combination hormone replacement therapy doubles dementia risk

A recent study by Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center found that combination hormone therapy increases the risk of probable dementia in women aged 65 and older, with approximately 23 additional cases per year. The study's results highlight the importance of considering alternative approaches to preventing cognitive decline.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA·DateMay 27, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Bahamas serve as test case for marine protected areas

Researchers in the Bahamas are creating one of the world's first marine reserve networks to preserve fish abundance and variety while maintaining fishing harvests. The study aims to design a sustainable fishing system through a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating economic, ecotourism, and political factors.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMay 27, 2003

PSA test for prostate cancer shown to have normal fluctuation

Researchers found that nearly half of men with elevated PSA levels had returned to normal levels after a year or more, making unnecessary biopsies possible. Repeating the PSA test after waiting at least six weeks may reduce unnecessary procedures and small incidental tumors.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalJAMA·DateMay 27, 2003
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.

Scientists find genetic link between blood flow patterns and cardiovascular disease

Researchers found a genetic connection between blood flow patterns and cardiovascular disease, with oscillatory shear stress leading to increased expression of the protein BMP4. This finding may help explain why physical inactivity promotes heart disease and could lead to new diagnostic tests or gene-based therapies.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 27, 2003
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.

When it comes to jealousy, men and women may come from the same planet after all

A recent study published in Personality and Social Psychology Review by Christine Harris questions the evolutionary theory of sex differences in jealousy. She finds that men and women view sexual and emotional jealousy in a similar light, with many studies failing to account for individual variability and cultural influences. Harris su...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMay 27, 2003

Researchers selectively silence disease-causing gene

Scientists have successfully silenced mutant genes without affecting normal gene copies using RNA interference, a promising approach for treating diseases like Machado-Joseph disease, Huntington's, and Alzheimer's. This breakthrough technique has the potential to selectively turn off disease-causing genes, preserving essential normal g...

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2003

Hot gas around cold dust cloud surprises astronomers

Scientists have found evidence of hot gases on the perimeter of the Coalsack, a cold dust cloud nearby the Milky Way. This discovery may help resolve debates about oxygen VI generation and provide new insights into star formation and galaxy energy production.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateMay 27, 2003

The seashell's inner beauty

Scientists create a nanoscale, layered material that replicates the properties of mother-of-pearl, including its iridescence. The artificial nacre consists of alternating layers of clay and a polymer, providing strong, yet flexible, materials for various applications.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 27, 2003
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.