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Science News Archive January 2010


Page 1 of 20

Novel studies of decomposition shed new light on our earliest fossil ancestry

Researchers from the University of Leicester used a new method to extract information from 500 million-year-old fossils, revealing that some early vertebrates may have been more complex than thought. The study found that decomposition altered characteristic anatomical features, providing clues for interpreting ancient fossils.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature·DateJan 31, 2010

New technology aims to repair the after-effects of gum disease

Researchers have developed a new technique to restore lost bone and gum tissue following periodontal disease, using layers of cells such as stem cells and gingival fibroblasts. The method has been shown to be successful in laboratory studies and has potential applications in other fields like skin grafts.

SourceResearch Australia·DateJan 31, 2010

Dog studies reveal strong risk factors for SLE

Researchers found five genome regions that increase the risk of developing an SLE-like autoimmune disorder in dogs. The study identified strong risk factors that may double the risk of human SLE, and could provide new avenues for studying the disease.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 31, 2010

No difference in survival between leukaemia patients 10 years after undergoing stem-cell or marrow transplant

Patients who underwent peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSC) had similar overall survival rates as those given bone marrow transplants, with no significant differences in mortality or late effects. However, subgroup analyses revealed improved leukaemia-free survival and overall survival for patients with acute leukaemias

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJan 31, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Seeing the brain hear reveals surprises about how sound is processed

Neurobiologists at the University of Maryland discovered that the brain's auditory cortex is more complex and chaotic than previously thought, with neighboring neurons creating different outputs. This disorder could indicate that the brain is far more adaptable than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 31, 2010

Dogs may provide an excellent model for understanding human complex diseases

Researchers identified five loci associated with a canine systemic lupus erythematosus-related disease complex in Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers. This study suggests that dogs can serve as an excellent model for identifying pathways involved in human complex diseases, particularly autoimmune disorders.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 31, 2010

Gene function discovery: Guilt by association

Researchers created AraNet, a network that connects over 19,600 plant genes based on physical neighborhood and co-expression patterns. The network accurately predicted the functions of three uncharacterized genes in Arabidopsis thaliana, demonstrating its potential to revolutionize fundamental plant biology and agricultural research.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 31, 2010

HIV researchers solve key puzzle after 20 years of trying

Researchers have grown a crystal that reveals the structure of integrase, an enzyme found in HIV, and how it interacts with antiretroviral drugs. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for HIV by understanding how existing drugs work and how to improve them.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateJan 31, 2010
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.

Cells send dirty laundry home to mom

Scientists have discovered a mechanism by which yeast cells transport damaged proteins to mother cells using conveyor-like structures called actin cables. This process ensures that newly formed daughter cells are born without age-related damage, paving the way for potential treatments of age-related diseases.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCell·DateJan 31, 2010

Biomarker could help doctors tailor treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers have identified a biomarker that can help predict which patients with rheumatoid arthritis are likely to benefit from therapy with TNF-antagonist drugs. The study found that patients with higher baseline levels of type I interferon and increased IFN-beta/alpha ratio were more likely to respond to therapy.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJan 29, 2010
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.

UC Davis researchers identify brain protein for synapse development

A new study from UC Davis Health System identifies a key protein called SynDIG1 that plays a crucial role in creating and sustaining synapses, essential for learning, memory, and perception. The research fills a major gap in understanding the molecular foundations of higher cognitive abilities and brain disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNeuron·DateJan 29, 2010

Study recommends better handling of milk in restaurants

One-third of analyzed milk samples exceed EU microbe contamination limits, according to a study by researchers from the University of Valencia. The experts advise against keeping milk in jugs and recommend better cleaning practices for utensils.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalFoodborne Pathogens and Disease·DateJan 29, 2010

AGU Journal highlights – Jan. 29, 2010

New research reveals heat from the Pacific Ocean is responsible for Arctic sea ice loss. Satellite radar can accurately measure hurricane wind speeds. Nitrogen dynamics may accelerate global warming by constraining carbon dioxide absorption.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 29, 2010

2 NASA satellites see TD11S going extra-tropical

NASA's TRMM and Aqua satellites observe TD11S's rainfall patterns and temperatures, indicating it is becoming extra-tropical. The storm's center is fully exposed from the west, making it susceptible to drier air or wind shear that can weaken it.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 29, 2010

ARS genetic analysis helps spot sugarcane rusts

Agricultural Research Service scientists analyzed over 160 sugarcane samples from 25 countries to identify genetic resistance to deadly orange and brown rusts. The study provides valuable resources for plant breeders and pathologists, supporting international food security.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJan 29, 2010
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.

CCNY biologists identify new spiny pocket mouse species

Biologists at City College of New York have identified a new spiny pocket mouse species, Heteromys catopterius, found in four wet mountainous forest regions along Venezuela's northern coast. The species differs from the Caribbean Spiny Pocket Mouse in darker fur and skull morphology.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalBulletin of the American Museum of Natural History·DateJan 29, 2010

Linheng Li proposes novel theory for mammalian stem cell regulation

Researchers propose a model of adult stem cell regulation that explains how coexistence of quiescent and active stem cell populations supports tissue renewal and regeneration. The new model suggests separate functional roles for both sub-populations, which may also contribute to cancer drug resistance.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2010
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.

Tropical Storm Olga: Three times a lady

NASA satellite imagery shows Tropical Storm Olga regaining strength in the Gulf of Carpentaria, with estimated sea level pressure near 989 millibars. Residents in Northern Territory and Queensland are under tropical cyclone warnings and watches due to expected landfall on January 30.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 29, 2010

Kentucky research looks at respiratory weakness in ICU morbidity

A University of Kentucky researcher is studying respiratory weakness as a factor in ICU morbidity, which can lead to prolonged stays and lengthy recovery times. The study aims to develop new treatments that could slow down muscle wasting and reduce reliance on mechanical ventilation.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateJan 29, 2010

Bees recognize human faces using feature configuration

Researchers found that bees can learn to recognize the arrangement of human facial features on a face, but not individual humans. The insects use this strategy to distinguish between face-like and non-face patterns.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 29, 2010
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.

New paper describes important advance in imaging of cell death

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame describe a significant advance in imaging cell death using synthetic probes. The new method can distinguish between healthy and dying cells in tumors, potentially aiding in tumor grading and treatment effectiveness measurement.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 29, 2010

Next generation weather/environmental satellite marks major milestone

The Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) has been delivered and will be integrated onto the NPP spacecraft, providing highly detailed imagery of clouds, vegetation, and environmental phenomena. The NPOESS Preparatory Project aims to extend the time series environmental data records initiated with NASA's Earth Observing Sys...

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 29, 2010

New computational tool for cancer treatment

Researchers have successfully designed new IDO inhibitors using a docking algorithm, with 50% of in silico designs showing activity against human tumors. The computational tool, EADock, has shown promise for future drug developments in cancer-immunotherapy.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJan 29, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Grandpa's broken hip may mean weaker bones for his grandsons

A Swedish study of over 3,700 grandparents and their grandsons found that men with a male relative who suffered a hip fracture had up to 5% less bone density and 4% smaller bones than those without. This reduction in bone size increases the risk of fractures threefold.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 29, 2010

Can blocking a frown keep bad feelings at bay?

Researchers found that blocking facial expressions can hinder our ability to understand emotions in written language. Tiny applications of Botox reduced reading times for angry and sad sentences.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 29, 2010

How many argon atoms can fit on the surface of a carbon nanotube?

Researchers used single-walled carbon nanotubes to study phase transition behavior of argon and krypton atoms. They found that the nanotube's electrical resistance changed when krypton atoms stuck to the surface, and demonstrated sensitivity to individual atom landings.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2010
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.

Virtual USA

The Virtual USA project aims to create a nationwide capability for sharing and standardizing life-saving emergency data in real-time. The platform, developed by the US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate, enables seamless integration of disparate data sources, reducing communication barriers between age...

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateJan 28, 2010

Scientists show how molecular switch helps pancreatic cancer beat drugs

Researchers at University of California, San Diego have identified a signaling protein called RON that helps pancreatic cancer cells survive and resist chemotherapy. The study provides new insights into pancreatic cancer development and suggests combining RON-targeted therapy with other treatments to combat tumor resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 28, 2010

USDA grant to create healthy urban food enterprise development center in Arkansas

The Healthy Urban Food Enterprise Development (HUFED) Center will provide training and technical assistance for small and mid-sized agricultural producers, aiming to increase access to healthy, affordable foods in low-income areas. The center is designed to promote positive economic activities generated from attracting healthy food ent...

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJan 28, 2010
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.

Secrets of immunologic memory

Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute have identified a new function of the CD44 receptor, which helps specific T helper cells develop immunologic memory. This discovery could lead to the development of therapies to control disease pathology in various infections and autoimmune conditions.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalImmunity·DateJan 28, 2010

Rheumatoid arthritis doesn't hinder computing skills

Researchers found that touch typing training significantly improved keyboarding speed in RA workers, regardless of impairment. However, impairments in hand function were associated with reduced mouse speeds, highlighting the need for effective strategies to maintain productivity in computer users with RA.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 28, 2010

Stem cell breakthrough: Bone marrow cells are the answer

Scientists discovered a new strategy for making embryonic stem cell transplants less likely to be rejected by a recipient's immune system. Bone marrow cells fuse with embryonic stem cells, creating hybrid cells that can evade immune rejection without drugs.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 28, 2010

Doctors cut back hours when risk of malpractice suit rises, study shows

A new study published in The Journal of Law and Economics found that physicians cut back their workload by almost two hours each week when the expected liability risk increases by 10 percent. This represents a significant impact, equivalent to one out of every 35 physicians retiring without a replacement.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalThe Journal of Law and Economics·DateJan 28, 2010
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.

Researchers find new way to study how enzymes repair DNA damage

Researchers have found a new way to study how enzymes repair DNA damage caused by UV light, which could lead to new therapies for sunburned skin. By using ultra-fast laser pulses, they were able to observe the motion of photolyases at the atomic scale, revealing unprecedented detail about the repair process.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2010

UCLA cancer researchers perform complete genomic sequencing of brain cancer cell line

Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have performed the first complete genomic sequencing of a brain cancer cell line, revealing a unique biological signature that may lead to new therapies. The study also holds promise for developing patient-specific diagnostics to monitor for cancer recurrence.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 28, 2010
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.

New 'suicide' molecule halts rheumatoid arthritis

A researcher from Northwestern University has invented a novel way to halt and reverse rheumatoid arthritis by developing an imitation of a suicide molecule that targets hyperactive immune cells. The approach, tested on mice, showed promising results with a 75% success rate and no reported toxicity.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJan 28, 2010

Most parents don't realize their 4- or 5-year-olds are overweight or obese

A study of over 800 parents and 439 children found that mothers and fathers of overweight and obese children were significantly heavier than those with normal-weight children. Parents also tended to underestimate their child's weight, with mothers of obese children being more concerned about their child's weight.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateJan 28, 2010

Virus-like particle vaccine protects monkeys from chikungunya virus

Scientists have developed an experimental VLP vaccine that protects macaques and mice against chikungunya virus, a debilitating disease with no current treatment. The vaccine, using non-infectious virus-like particles, elicits immune responses and provides complete protection from infection.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 28, 2010

'Squeaker' catfish communicate across generations

Researchers have found that young squeaker catfish can detect sounds made by their older relatives, challenging prior assumptions about auditory development. The study suggests that fish of all ages use the 'squeaking' sound to communicate, increasing in level and duration as they grow.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateJan 28, 2010
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.

Change in mammography guidelines questioned

A review of the US Preventive Services Task Force's statement on screening for breast cancer raises questions about the methodology and evidence behind widely publicized mammography guidelines. The study found low methodological scores in the report, potentially undermining the recommended changes for breast cancer screening.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography·DateJan 28, 2010

NASS releases new geospatial data products

The US Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service has released new geospatial data products, including satellite images of agricultural land cover across most of the nation. These cropland data layers can be used to monitor crop rotation patterns, land use changes, and water resources.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJan 28, 2010
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.

Smokers at risk from their own 'second-hand' smoke

Research found that smokers' health is compromised by breathing environmental tobacco smoke, with second-hand smoke equivalent to an additional 2.6 cigarettes per day. This highlights the need for both active and passive smoking contributions to be considered when studying smoker health.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJan 28, 2010

Don't privatize banks too soon

Research suggests that privatizing government-owned banks can result in a collapse of depositors' confidence, triggering bank runs and financial instability. Effective regulation is crucial to prevent this outcome, as it allows for the banking system to finance economic growth.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJan 28, 2010