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Science News for January 26, 2012


Following genetic footprints out of Africa

Researchers analyzed genetic data to find clues about human migration over 60,000 years ago. They found evidence for an ancient ancestry within Arabia, suggesting it was the first staging-post in the spread of modern humans around the world.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 26, 2012

Catalyzing new uses for diesel by-products

A new catalytic process at Cardiff University converts hydrocarbons from diesel production into oxygenated aromatics, including phthalic anhydride and coumarin. This breakthrough could lead to less waste and the creation of more useful chemicals for various industries.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 26, 2012

Notre Dame researchers publish new findings on aging pediatric bruises

The study advances understanding of bruise composition and age through spectroscopic measurement and Monte Carlo modeling. Researchers developed a multilayered model simulating seven skin layers, providing clearer spectroscopic pictures of bruise composition and age.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalPhysiological Measurement·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Viruses con bacteria into working for them

Researchers discovered that certain ocean bacteria are tricked into using their own machinery to activate genes carried by viruses. The viruses inject DNA into stressed bacteria, which then support the virus' replication cycle. This co-evolutionary relationship reveals a sophisticated mechanism of gene regulation and exploitation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 26, 2012

LED lights point shoppers in the right direction

Researchers from Penn State and Hallym University developed a system that uses LED lights to provide locational information, enabling shoppers to quickly find items in large stores. The hybrid system combines radio frequency transmitters with overhead LED lights to provide accurate location data.

SourcePenn State·DateJan 26, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Supermaterial goes superpermeable

Researchers at the University of Manchester discovered graphene oxide membranes that can selectively remove water while blocking other substances, potentially leading to new applications in filtration and separation

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2012

Scripps research scientists illuminate cancer cells' survival strategy

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute found that a cell surface protein called CDCP1 protects tumor cells from apoptosis and promotes metastasis. The team identified plasmin as the key enzyme responsible for cleaving CDCP1, which triggers a signaling cascade blocking apoptosis and enabling cancer cells to colonize distant organs.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalOncogene·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Sharper imaging in glaucoma focus of $1.85 million NIH grant

A University of Houston vision scientist is developing new imaging techniques using the AOSLO device to better understand early changes in glaucoma. The research aims to enhance clinicians' understanding of glaucoma development and progression, leading to earlier recognition of structural damage and improved diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJan 26, 2012

Rap music powers rhythmic action of medical sensor

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new type of miniature medical sensor that uses acoustic waves from rap music to recharge and monitor pressure. The sensor can be used to diagnose incontinence and treat conditions such as aneurisms and paralysis, offering potential benefits over conventional implantable devices.

SourcePurdue University·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

New therapeutic target to combat liver cancer discovered

A novel molecular process linked to neddylation has been found to be involved in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer with poor prognosis. The study suggests that targeting this process could lead to potential therapeutic applications for patients with HCC.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalHepatology·DateJan 26, 2012

UK researchers shed light on magnetic mystery of graphite

Researchers from the University of Manchester have discovered that commercially available graphite crystals contain micron-sized clusters of predominantly iron, which explain their weak signs of magnetism. This finding could be a breakthrough for utilising graphite as a bio-compatible magnet for medicine and biology.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEPL (Europhysics Letters)·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Changing people's behavior: From reducing bullying to training scientists

Researchers have developed new interventions targeting influential students to reduce bullying, while increasing teens' interest in STEM courses through parental involvement. Additionally, interventions improving women's perceptions in engineering have shown promising results, highlighting the power of social-psychological approaches.

SourceSAGE·DateJan 26, 2012

Physician's weight may influence obesity diagnosis and care

A new study led by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that physicians' body mass index (BMI) influences obesity diagnosis and care. Physicians with normal BMI were more likely to engage obese patients in weight loss discussions and diagnose obesity if they perceived the patient's BMI met or exceeded their own.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalObesity·DateJan 26, 2012

URMC finds leukemia cells are 'bad to the bone'

Researchers at URMC discovered a link between leukemia cells and bone formation, finding that leukemia alters the balance of osteoblast and osteoclast activity. The study suggests that targeting osteoclasts could be a potential treatment strategy for leukemia.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalBlood·DateJan 26, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Oral HPV infection, HPV-related cancers more common in men

A recent study found that 7% of the US population between ages 14 and 69 has an oral HPV infection, with men being three times more likely to have it than women. The study also revealed that patients infected with oral HPV type 16 have a 14 times greater risk of developing head and neck cancer.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateJan 26, 2012

Stop taking steroids: Kidney transplant recipients may not need long-term prednisone

A new study found that patients who quickly stop taking immunosuppressive prednisone after receiving a kidney transplant avoid experiencing serious prednisone-related side effects. The study also showed that rapid discontinuation of prednisone does not jeopardize the long-term survival of patients and their new organs.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 26, 2012

How seawater could corrode nuclear fuel

A team of researchers has found a new method by which seawater can corrode nuclear fuel, creating uranium compounds that could potentially travel long distances in solution or as tiny particles. The discovery highlights the need to consider this phenomenon in future nuclear operations.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Prevalence of oral HPV infection higher among men than women

The study found that oral HPV infection was predominantly sexually transmitted and had peaks in different age ranges, with men having a significantly higher prevalence than women. Oral HPV prevalence was associated with several measures of sexual behavior, including the number of partners and current smoking habits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 26, 2012

Following the first steps out of Africa

A new study sheds light on the earliest stages of human migration, suggesting that modern humans first settled in Arabia on their way out of Africa. Genetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA genomes provides evidence for an ancient ancestry within Arabia.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 26, 2012

Berkeley Lab researchers discover critical rotational motion in cells

Scientists at Berkeley Lab have discovered a rotational motion called CAMo that plays a critical role in the formation of spherical acini structures in breast cells. Without CAMo, cells lose their structure and become randomly motile, leading to malignancy.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Rice, UCSD scientists probe form, function of mysterious protein

Researchers from Rice University and UCSD decipher part of mitoNEET's movements using laboratory experiments and computer modeling. They found that the protein can switch between conformations without unfolding, altering the shape of its critical pocket.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2012

Diagnostic brain tumor test could revolutionize care of patients

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new imaging technique to diagnose brain tumors, providing a definitive diagnosis based on protein levels associated with a genetic mutation. The test shows promise for precluding the need for surgery in patients whose tumors are too dangerous to biopsy.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 26, 2012

Gatekeeper signal controls skin inflammation

Researchers identify 'gatekeeper' ADAM17 involved in regulating immune response and preventing inflammatory skin disease. Reactivation of Notch signaling rescues local skin inflammation and abnormal immune cell proliferation.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Study: Diabetes affects hearing loss, especially in women

A new study from Henry Ford Hospital found that diabetes affects hearing loss in women, with poorly controlled diabetes leading to significantly worse hearing. The study also showed that men have worse hearing loss across the board, regardless of age or diabetes control.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateJan 26, 2012

Believing the impossible and conspiracy theories

A study found that conspiracy theorists endorse contradictory beliefs, such as believing Princess Diana faked her own death and also thought she was assassinated. People who distrust authorities are more likely to hold these inconsistent views due to their perception of deception.

SourceSAGE·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJan 26, 2012

CT scans for dizziness in the ER: Worth the cost?

A new study from Henry Ford Hospital found that less than 1% of CT scans performed in emergency departments revealed a serious underlying cause for dizziness. The study suggests that stricter guidelines could be implemented to reduce unnecessary CT scans and save costs.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateJan 26, 2012

Penn anthropologists clarify link between Asians and early Native-Americans

Researchers found a genetic connection between Native Americans and southern Altaians, suggesting the Altai region as the potential source of the earliest Native Americans. The study analyzed mitochondrial DNA and Y chromosome DNA markers to define the founding lineages of Native American populations.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

For the birds

Researchers found that birds prioritize specific tree species over others when searching for caterpillars, with the healthiest trees harboring the most caterpillars. This preference puts caterpillars at a higher risk of predation.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalThe American Naturalist·DateJan 26, 2012

Are you a happy shopper? Research website helps you find out

A study by San Francisco State University found that people who prefer experiences over possessions tend to be extraverted and open to new experiences. These 'experiential shoppers' reported greater life satisfaction due to their spending habits.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateJan 26, 2012

New seismology research on Haiti, slow earthquakes and the southern San Andreas Fault

Researchers explore scaling relationships of slow slip events and compare them to similar laws for earthquakes, highlighting the need for further study to understand fault mechanics. A newly defined propeller-like geometry of southern San Andreas Fault may require re-thinking ground motion assessments.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

NIH study shows caffeine consumption linked to estrogen changes

A new NIH study found that moderate caffeine intake is associated with higher estrogen levels in Asian women and lower estrogen levels in white women. Caffeine consumption from caffeinated soda or green tea also linked to elevated estrogen levels in all ethnic groups, but without affecting ovulation.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 26, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

IRCM researchers fuel an important debate in the field of molecular biology

A team of IRCM researchers confirmed the universality of essential cellular process phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II, contradicting recent genome-wide analyses. The study provides critical insights into genetic regulation and may lead to new treatments for genetic diseases and cancer.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 26, 2012

New lung cancer test predicts survival

A new molecular test can predict the likelihood of death from early-stage lung cancer with greater accuracy than traditional methods. The test, which measures gene activity in cancerous tissue, has been shown to improve prognosis and guide treatment decisions for patients with non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 26, 2012

Making sense of sensory connections

Researchers at Caltech explored the brains of insects to understand how sensory connections form new and specific memories. They identified a mechanism involving transient synchronization between pairs of connected neurons, known as spike-timing dependent plasticity, which makes connections sensitive to internal rewards.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Newly engineered highly transmissible H5N1 strain ignites controversy about balancing scientific discovery and public safety

Scientists have engineered a highly transmissible H5N1 strain, sparking debate about its safety and appropriateness. Dr. Inglesby argues that the risks outweigh the benefits, while Dr. Pavia suggests that proper safeguards can mitigate concerns and promote critical scientific understanding.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 2012

Cosmology in a Petri dish

Scientists studying micron-size particles trapped at fluid interfaces found a collective dynamic governed by seemingly unrelated laws. The study uses numerical simulations to model long-range gravitational attraction, which transitions to short-range attractive and repulsive forces at certain length scales.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJan 26, 2012

In the brain, an earlier sign of autism

Researchers have identified differences in brain function that may predict future autism symptoms in infants as young as six months old. The study found that these early brain responses associate with a later diagnosis of autism, suggesting direct measures of brain functioning could aid in predicting the development of autism symptoms.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Study pinpoints genetic variation that raises a risk linked to bisphosphonates

Researchers identified a genetic variation in the RBMS3 gene that increases the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) in patients taking bisphosphonates. A genetic screening test could help determine safe treatment options, reducing the need for medication discontinuation or invasive dental procedures.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalThe Oncologist·DateJan 26, 2012

System to deliver organ transplant drug -- without harmful side effects

A new system for delivering cyclosporine has been developed by scientists at the University of Strathclyde, enabling safe and effective treatment with minimal harm to kidneys. The system uses nanoparticles to deliver the drug orally, maintaining a strong dose while sparing organs from damage.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalJournal of Biomedical Nanotechnology·DateJan 26, 2012

Huge potential of NHS junior doctors being ignored

A regional survey of 1500 NHS junior doctors found that they are willing and able to contribute to improving health services, but lack support and recognition. The survey results highlight the need for the government and NHS organisations to value and engage junior doctors to optimise organisational performance.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateJan 26, 2012

What are friends for? Negating negativity

A Concordia University study found that friends can immediately reduce cortisol levels and improve feelings of self-worth in children undergoing negative experiences. The presence of a best friend has far-reaching implications, potentially impacting adult identity formation and overall development.

SourceConcordia University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Scientist: Temperate freshwater wetlands are 'forgotten' carbon sinks

A new study suggests that temperate freshwater wetlands are more valuable as carbon sinks than currently thought, with an average carbon storage rate of almost twice that of flow-through wetlands. The stagnant wetland stored 317 grams of carbon per square meter per year, exceeding previous measurements in other types of wetlands.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 26, 2012

Commentary in Nature: Can economy bear what oil prices have in store?

A commentary in Nature suggests that the economic pain of a flattening oil supply will trump environmental concerns, with production hitting a wall around 2005. Stagnant oil supplies and volatile prices take a toll on the world economy, with oil production decline expected to continue.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2012

Cell Press launches a new open-access journal, Cell Reports

Cell Press introduces Cell Reports, a new open-access journal publishing cutting-edge science on topics from evolutionary biology to immunology. The journal offers concise, provocative stories and rapid publication to facilitate access to research.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 26, 2012
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 GEOLOGY articles online Jan. 23

Researchers examine the link between climate warming and mass extinctions, revealing a direct consequence of Siberian trap volcanism. They also document land-based magnetic lineations similar to those found in sea-floor spreading centers and provide evidence for river drainage system rearrangement linked to ancient civilizations.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateJan 26, 2012

Cyberknife radiation relieves stabbing pain of facial nerve condition

Researchers treated 17 patients with trigeminal neuralgia using Cyberknife radiosurgery, resulting in partial or complete relief from symptoms for 14 patients. The procedure offered a viable alternative to invasive approaches, with no major complications reported.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of NeuroInterventional Surgery·DateJan 26, 2012

Scientists create new atomic X-ray laser

Researchers created an atomic X-ray laser by removing electrons from neon gas atoms, creating a 'domino effect' that amplified the laser light. The new technology fulfills a 45-year-old prediction and could lead to breakthroughs in medicine, devices, and materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Scientists link evolved, mutated gene module to syndromic autism

Scientists discovered a new link between mutations in an evolved gene module and syndromic autism, specifically Joubert syndrome. The study found that alterations in cellular primary cilia led to malformation or underdevelopment of the cerebellum and brainstem.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2012

LITHOSPHERE Highlights: February 2012

New studies reveal mantle-driven uplift in the Rocky Mountains and Colorado Plateau, while also documenting extensional fault systems in the Aegean Sea. Additionally, researchers examine the impact of fault-enhanced irregularities on groundwater flow paths, with implications for nuclear waste repositories.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalLithosphere·DateJan 26, 2012

Detecting detrimental change in coral reefs

A NASA expert has developed a method to detect detrimental changes in coral reefs using Landsat data, allowing for targeted conservation efforts. The 'temporal texture' approach analyzes reflectance information over time to identify areas of significant change, enabling scientists to pinpoint 'hotspots' for intervention.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Does antimatter weigh more than matter?

Physicists at the University of California, Riverside, have launched a lab experiment to determine if antimatter behaves differently in gravity than matter. The researchers created positronium, a bound state between a positron and an electron, and measured its deflection due to gravity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJan 26, 2012

Researchers show how viruses evolve, and in some cases, become deadly

Researchers at Michigan State University show that a virus called Lambda evolves complex and potentially deadly new traits through four mutations. The study suggests that natural selection played a key role in the virus' evolution, promoting adaptation by survival of the fittest.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2012

Mutation drives viral sensors to initiate autoimmune disease

Abnormal regulation of viral sensors can lead to autoimmune pathology, according to a new study using a mouse model of human autoimmune disease. The research identifies key pathways linking DNA detection with IFN production and drives different aspects of the immune response.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Jostling for position

A recent study analyzed data from tree species censuses and fossil evidence to chart diversity in rainforests. The results show that variation in species richness among families is very similar across tropical forests, suggesting that community structure in rainforests cannot be attributed to stochastic factors.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2012

2 in 5 adults with rheumatoid arthritis are physically inactive

A new study found that 2 in 5 adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were inactive, with motivation and beliefs about exercise being key risk factors. Researchers suggest that promoting physical activity can improve RA management and overall public health.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 26, 2012

Mass. Eye and Ear awarded $150,000 grant from Research to Prevent Blindness

Corneal specialist Dr. James Chodosh has received a $150,000 grant from Research to Prevent Blindness to study viral infections of the eye and identify characteristics that cause inflammation in the cornea. The goal of his research is to develop predictive models for Adenovirus-infected corneas and improve treatment options.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·DateJan 26, 2012
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.

Scientists map 1 of life's molecular mysteries

Researchers at University of Bristol have successfully mapped the molecular gateway across cellular membranes, revealing the mechanism responsible for protein secretion. The study, published in Cell Reports, provides a major breakthrough in cell biology, shedding light on how proteins are transported across membranes.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 26, 2012

Mutated Kras spins a molecular loop that launches pancreatic cancer

Researchers identified a molecular loop between mutated Kras, NF-κB, and IL-1α, which perpetuates inflammation, tumor growth, and poor survival in pancreatic cancer. This discovery suggests targeting IL-1α as a potential treatment avenue to block the elusive target of mutated Kras.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 26, 2012

Visual nudge improves accuracy of mammogram readings

A new technique using subtle gaze direction guides novice radiologists to follow expert scanpaths, improving accuracy in reading mammograms. This high-tech approach shows promise for training medical image interpretation and could be applied to various visual search tasks.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateJan 26, 2012