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Science News for July 29, 2012


New discovery of how carbon is stored in the Southern Ocean

Researchers found that localized pathways created by winds, currents, and eddies draw waters down into the deep ocean, locking away carbon from the atmosphere. This improved understanding helps predict effects of climate change on ocean carbon absorption.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 29, 2012

When the world burned less

A new University of Utah-led study suggests that global cooling, rather than population collapse, was the primary driver of reduced wildfires globally. The research analyzed charcoal samples spanning 2,000 years and found a significant decline in fires post-1500 AD, which coincided with the onset of the Little Ice Age.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalThe Holocene·DateJul 29, 2012

Smell the potassium

Researchers found two new potassium channels, SK3 and GIRK, that activate the vomeronasal organ's pheromone detection, overriding previous theories on sensory neuron function. The discovery provides clues to innate behaviors in humans and challenges existing knowledge on the VNO's role.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 29, 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.

Gene discovery set to help with mysterious paralysis of childhood

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a gene mutation causing Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood (AHC), a rare disorder characterized by unpredictable paralysis and seizures. The study's findings suggest a potential treatment, with genetic testing to accurately diagnose patients and prevent misdiagnoses.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 29, 2012

Magnetic field, mantle convection and tectonics

A study published in Nature Geoscience suggests that rapid mantle convection may influence the Earth's magnetic field, which is produced by convection currents in the liquid core. The research team found that changes in heat flow and density distribution in the mantle could lead to more frequent or less frequent geomagnetic reversals.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 29, 2012

Chronic 2000-04 drought, worst in 800 years, may be the 'new normal'

Scientists warn that chronic droughts like the 2000-04 event could become more frequent and severe, leading to ecosystem damage and reduced carbon sequestration. The region's ability to absorb carbon dioxide may decline by the end of the century, exacerbating global warming.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 29, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cell receptor has proclivity for T helper 9 cells, airway inflammation

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers found that the cell surface molecule OX40 induces the production of IL-9, leading to airway inflammation. This discovery may impact the treatment of chronic inflammation, such as allergic reactions and organ transplant rejection.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 29, 2012

Cutting the graphene cake

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a side-view imaging technique to visualize individual graphene layers in devices, finding that structures are remarkably stable even with multiple layers. This achievement has significant implications for the engineering of graphene-based computer chips.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 29, 2012

How to avoid traps in plastic electronics

A study reveals that charge traps in plastic semiconductors are caused by a similar energy level, allowing for the estimation of expected electron current and design of trap-free materials. This breakthrough has important implications for both plastic LEDs and solar cells.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 29, 2012

New cause of child blindness identified

A team of international scientists has identified the new gene responsible for Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), a devastating genetic form of blindness in newborns. NMNAT1 is crucial for life and produces a vital coenzyme called NAD, involved in hundreds of reactions in the cell.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 29, 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.

Researchers analyze melting glaciers and water resources in Central Asia

The study reveals that glaciers in the Tien Shan Mountains have lost between 0.1% and 0.8% of their surface per year, with the largest retreat observed on the periphery near major cities. This affects the seasonal distribution of water, which will exacerbate droughts during summers.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 29, 2012

New discovery of how carbon is stored in the Southern Ocean

A team of scientists has discovered a method of how carbon is drawn down from the surface of the Southern Ocean to deep waters, utilizing winds, currents, and eddies. This understanding improves knowledge of climate change effects on ocean carbon absorption.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 29, 2012