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Science News for January 30, 2013


Toward a better cyanide antidote for terrorist attacks and other mass casualty events

Researchers have developed a potential antidote for cyanide poisoning that can be administered by intra-muscular injection, reducing the need for trained personnel and increasing efficiency in mass casualty events. The discovery of sulfanegen TEA offers a promising alternative to existing intravenous infusion-based treatments.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJan 30, 2013

Pathway for membrane building blocks

The lipid molecules of membranes, also known as phospholipids, form a bilayer with heads pointing outwards and fatty acid chains hanging inwards. Scientists have discovered enzymes that transport phospholipids across membranes, allowing for the alignment of biomembranes during cell division.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateJan 30, 2013

Why some immigrants get citizenship

A study by MIT and LSE found that migrants from certain countries may be up to 40% less likely to gain citizenship due to biases in the voting process. Despite this, interactions with immigrant groups can help reduce prejudice over time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Disappearing homing pigeon mystery solved

Researchers discovered that homing pigeons rely on 'loft-specific infrasonic map cues' to navigate, which are disrupted when release sites are shielded from these low-frequency signals. This finding resolves a long-standing puzzle and sheds new light on the birds' impressive navigation abilities.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 30, 2013

Forsyth scientists gain new understanding of latent tuberculosis

Scientists at Forsyth Institute have made a groundbreaking discovery about latent tuberculosis, finding that the bacteria can lay dormant in bone marrow stem cells. This understanding has significant clinical implications, explaining why patients with TB remain sensitive to tests and treatment is so challenging.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013

More sex for married couples with traditional divisions of housework

A new study published in the American Sociological Review found that sex frequency is linked to the types of household chores each spouse completes, rather than just the division of labor. Married couples who follow traditional gender roles around the house reported greater sexual frequency.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJan 30, 2013

Study: Husbands who do more traditionally female housework have less sex

A new study by the American Sociological Association found that married men who spend more time on traditionally female household tasks report having less sex. The research also suggests that couples with more egalitarian divisions of labor have higher sexual frequency, highlighting the importance of socialized gender roles in marriage.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Peer pressure trumps 'thin' ideals in the media

A study published in Journal of Youth and Adolescence reveals that peer competition, rather than exposure to thin media ideals or social media use, is a significant predictor of body dissatisfaction and eating disorder symptoms among adolescent girls. Peer competition was found to predict lower life satisfaction as well.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateJan 30, 2013

NREL acquires fuel cell hybrid vehicles to support hydrogen studies

NREL has received four fuel cell hybrid vehicles on loan from Toyota to enhance its research on hydrogen fueling infrastructure, renewable hydrogen production, and vehicle performance. The vehicles will be used to observe extended durability and reliability, critical for commercial success.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJan 30, 2013

NTU research embraces laser and sparks cool affair

Scientists from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) have developed a revolutionary laser cooling system that can cool semiconductors to extremely low temperatures, potentially replacing harmful refrigerants in air-conditioning and refrigerators. This technology has far-reaching implications for various industries, including healthca...

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

Penn research shows mechanism behind wear at the atomic scale

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new microscopy method to study wear at the atomic scale. They successfully demonstrated the transfer of material from one surface to another, revealing the mechanisms behind this process. The findings provide crucial insights into improving nanoscale devices and machines.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

How our cells cope with toxic small molecules

Scientists review 'metabolite damage-control' to understand how cells repair damaged metabolites and prevent fatal diseases. The field is in its infancy, with many unidentified reactions waiting discovery.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 30, 2013

UCI team finds new target for treating wide spectrum of cancers

A team of researchers at UC Irvine has discovered a rare and promising binding site on the mutant p53 protein that can be targeted by cancer-fighting drugs. This finding may lead to the development of a universal treatment approach for multiple types of cancers, including those of the lung and breast.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2013

Conflicting cultural identities may foster political radicalism

Dual-identity immigrants who perceive their cultural identities as incompatible are more likely to sympathize with radical political action, according to new research published in Psychological Science. This finding holds true for both Turkish and Russian immigrant groups.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 30, 2013

Snails signal a humid Mediterranean

A team of researchers from the University of York analyzed snail shells from Mediterranean caves to study past humidity levels. The findings show that the western Mediterranean was warmer and stickier when first farmers arrived in Italy and Spain thousands of years ago.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalQuaternary International·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Gut microbes at root of severe malnutrition in kids

A study of young twins in Malawi reveals that dysfunctional gut microbes contribute to severe acute childhood malnutrition. The researchers found that feeding malnourished children a high-calorie, nutrient-rich food temporarily improved their gut microbiomes, but the benefits were short-lived. The findings suggest that repairing gut mi...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateJan 30, 2013

Checking out open access

A Concordia librarian advocates for open source technology to make academic journals freely available, reducing subscription fees. The initiative aims to ensure institutional support for long-term sustainability and promotes the mission of libraries to support scholarly research.

SourceConcordia University·JournalThe Journal of Academic Librarianship·DateJan 30, 2013

Researchers harness nature to produce the fuel of the future

Researchers have made significant progress in producing hydrogen fuel from water using enzymes inspired by bacteria. Their artificial catalyst is stable and efficient, making it a cost-effective way to produce hydrogen.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2013

Aztec conquest altered genetics among early Mexico inhabitants, new DNA study shows

A new DNA study from the University of Texas at Austin provides genetic evidence for the impact of Aztec imperialism on Mesoamerican populations. Researchers found that the pre-conquest maternal aDNA did not match those of the post-conquest era in Xaltocan, suggesting significant genetic changes

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Bonobos predisposed to show sensitivity to others

Researchers found juvenile bonobos (ages 3-7) displayed more consolation behavior than adults, suggesting sensitivity to emotions emerges early without advanced thought processes. Bonobos raised by their biological mothers showed higher comfort levels towards others.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Lakewood High School wins Colorado Science Bowl

Lakewood High School Team 1 won the Colorado High School Science Bowl, defeating Cheyenne Mountain High School Team 1 with a score of 38-16. The team will compete against over 400 students from 70 high schools in Washington D.C. for the national title.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJan 30, 2013

Satellite image shows eastern US severe weather system

A powerful cold front is sweeping across the eastern United States, replacing spring-like temperatures with winter-time weather and producing powerful storms. The NOAA GOES-13 satellite captured a stunning image of the storm system on January 30, showing a line of clouds stretching from Canada to the US Gulf Coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 30, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biofuels blend right in

A collaborative study by researchers with the U.S. Department of Energy has shown that an ionic liquid proven to be effective for pre-treating individual biofuel feedstocks is also effective at pre-treating multiple different feedstocks that have been mixed and densified into a blend. The study found that blending and densifying a wide...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalBiofuels·DateJan 30, 2013

Vegetarianism can reduce risk of heart disease by up to a third

A new study from the University of Oxford found that vegetarians have a 32% lower risk of hospitalisation or death from heart disease compared to meat-eaters. The study analyzed data from almost 45,000 volunteers and found that vegetarian diets were associated with lower blood pressures and cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Research study: Whistle away the need for diapers

Researchers at Sahlgrenska Academy found that potty training from birth can improve bladder control and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections in Vietnamese babies. This technique involves a special whistling sound to remind the baby when it's time to urinate, allowing for early elimination of diapers.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Pediatric Urology·DateJan 30, 2013

BRI researchers identify biomarker and potential therapy target in multiple sclerosis

Researchers at Benaroya Research Institute found that IL-6 signaling pathway proteins may serve as novel biomarkers for MS disease activity and a potential therapeutic target. The study discovered that T cells in patients with active MS were more sensitive to IL-6, which could lead to new therapies targeting the IL-6 pathway.

SourceBenaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Sorting out stroking sensations

Researchers at California Institute of Technology have identified a specific class of skin sensory neurons that react to massage-like stroking, paving the way for further study of pleasurable sensations. The discovery uses genetically modified mice and novel recording techniques to pinpoint individual neurons activated by touch.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

Disease not a factor in Tassie Tiger extinction

A new population modelling approach contradicts the widespread belief that disease must have been a factor in the thylacine's extinction. The study found that European settlement, including hunting and habitat loss, was powerful enough to drive the species to extinction without invoking a mystery disease.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

GEOLOGY starts 2013 with 25 new articles posted online ahead of print

The article discusses various geological topics, including the flatness of Earth, chemical weathering, and the distribution of radiogenic lead in zircons. The findings show that mountains do not play a significant role in 'carbon drawdown' effect and challenge previous studies.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateJan 30, 2013

Brain activity study lends insight into schizophrenia

Researchers used MEG to identify two distinct spectral features in schizophrenia patients, which were significantly different from healthy control subjects. The study also found four features that changed with age, suggesting the disease affects brain activity over time.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysiological Measurement·DateJan 30, 2013

Setting the stage for a new paradigm in treatment of heart failure

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found striking similarities between heart cells and brain cells in patients with Alzheimer's disease, suggesting a new treatment paradigm for heart failure. Misfolded proteins in heart cells are a key factor in the process of heart failure.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Scientists learn more about how inhibitory brain cells get excited

Researchers found that protein erbin is critical to excitement in inhibitory brain cells, enabling them to suppress activity. The discovery sheds new light on schizophrenia and seizures, highlighting the importance of balance between excitation and inhibition.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013

Outdoor fast food ads could promote obesity, study finds

A new study from UCLA has identified a possible link between outdoor food ads and a tendency to pack on pounds. The researchers found that the more outdoor advertisements promoting fast food and soft drinks there are in an area, the higher the likelihood that residents are overweight.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJan 30, 2013

Mindfulness meditation heightens a listener's musical engagement

Researchers found that mindfulness meditation increased focused engagement and aesthetic responses among music students, even with familiar passages. The technique helped renew attention and drive participants into a state of 'flow,' leading to improved listening experiences.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalPsychology of Music·DateJan 30, 2013

Study reveals significance of second trimester markers for Down's syndrome

Researchers analyzed 48 studies on second trimester markers and found that most single markers have only a small effect on modifying the odds for Down's syndrome. However, some markers such as dilated brain ventricles, increased neck thickness, and absent nose bone significantly increase the risk by three- to four-fold.

SourceWiley·JournalUltrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 30, 2013

Binge drinking increases risk of Type 2 diabetes by causing insulin resistance

A new study published in Science Translational Medicine has found a strong link between binge drinking and the development of insulin resistance, which can lead to Type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that alcohol disrupts insulin-receptor signaling, causing inflammation in the brain and increasing the risk of metabolic disorders.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Antibiotics cut death rate for malnourished children

Researchers found a 44% drop in mortality with cefdinir and a 36% drop with amoxicillin when antibiotics were added to therapeutic food treatment. This study has changed how children are treated worldwide, providing a lifesaving impact on hundreds of thousands of children annually.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013

NSF selects OSU to lead project rejuvenating US research fleet

Oregon State University will lead a $290 million project to design and build three new coastal research vessels, bolstering the US marine science research capabilities. The vessels will be designed for flexibility and environmental sustainability, addressing critical ocean issues such as climate change and marine ecosystems.

SourceOregon State University·DateJan 30, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Stanford experiment shows that virtual superpowers encourage real-world empathy

Researchers at Stanford University found that playing Superman-like flight in a virtual reality simulation increased altruistic behavior in individuals. In contrast, helicopter-riding participants took longer to offer help. The study suggests designing games that promote empathy and altruism could have real-world benefits.

SourceStanford University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

'Petri dish lens' gives hope for new eye treatments

Researchers at Monash University successfully derived and purified lens epithelium, paving the way for testing new drugs on human tissue. The breakthrough could lead to cures for congenital sight impairment caused by lens damage, particularly in developing countries.

SourceMonash University·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013
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 research shows complexity of global warming

A new study reveals that global warming from greenhouse gases has a weaker impact on global precipitation compared to solar heating. The researchers found that the global rainfall rate increased by about 40% less during the present-day warming period than during past warming phases, despite higher temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

How does fibrosis occur in Crohn's disease?

Research reveals that a protein called IL-13 plays a crucial role in the development of fibrosis in Crohn's disease. The study found that increased levels of IL-13 lead to excessive collagen synthesis and tissue hardening, causing bowel narrowing and loss of mobility.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Researchers develop model for identifying habitable zones around star

A Penn State research team has developed a new model to determine whether discovered planets can support liquid water and life. The updated model suggests that habitable zones are farther away from stars than previously thought, potentially reclassifying some previously believed habitable planets as non-habitable.

SourcePenn State·DateJan 30, 2013

Understanding the historical probability of drought

Researchers from Oklahoma State University created a reliable 'calendar' of seasonal drought patterns that can help farmers avoid costly losses to drought conditions. By considering soil properties and water deficits, the study found that traditional atmospheric measurements underestimated drought probabilities.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJan 30, 2013

Chronic kidney disease increases risk of death for both women and men

A new study from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found chronic kidney disease is associated with a higher risk of death and end-stage renal disease for both women and men. The study analyzed data from over 2 million participants worldwide, including a diverse population of women making up 54% of the cohort.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Arunachal contributes in detecting stem cells where dormant TB bacteria hide

Researchers from Arunachal Pradesh and the Research Institute of World's Ancient Traditions Cultures and Heritage successfully isolated dormant TB bacteria from CD271+ stem cells in bone marrow. The study provides evidence that TB bacteria hide in these stem cells to escape drug treatment, making it difficult to eradicate the disease.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013

Confirmed: How plant communities endure stress

A global meta-analysis supports the Stress Gradient Hypothesis, showing that plant interactions become more influential in positive ways when ecosystems face threats like drought. The study found that as stress increases, negative interactions weaken, while mutual support strengthens across various plant types and conditions.

SourceBrown University·JournalEcology Letters·DateJan 30, 2013

Risk of unwarranted pregnancies with morning after pill conscience clauses

Pharmacists warn that morning after pill conscience clauses can lead to unwanted pregnancies and undermine the principle of universal healthcare in the NHS. The current 'fudge' approach, allowing pharmacists to opt out on moral or religious grounds, is not morally defensible or legally feasible.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateJan 30, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Female deer take control during the mating season

A new study reveals that female fallow deer actively select their mates, choosing up to 12% to mate with multiple males each year. The research suggests that polyandry may ensure successful pregnancy by favoring older or more experienced males.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJan 30, 2013

Research unlocks mystery surrounding the harnessing of fusion energy

A multi-institutional team has discovered how ultra-thin lithium films on graphite walls control plasma behavior in nuclear fusion devices. The study reveals that oxygen plays a key role in bonding deuterium atoms, while lithium brings it to the surface.

SourceNational Institute for Computational Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 30, 2013

Obesity may increase risk of MS in children and teens

A new study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that obesity may increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) in children and teenage girls. The research, which analyzed data from over 913,000 children, found a significant association between obesity and MS in girls, but not in boys.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Hit by 2 hammers

Researchers identify new gene associated with Hirschprung Disease and demonstrate how deficiencies in two candidate genes synergize to halt gut nervous system formation. Understanding this genetic basis may lead to better diagnostics and treatment for the condition.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 30, 2013

Study finds little progress in participation of early-career RNs in hospital QI

A study published in the Journal of Nursing Care Quality found that early-career registered nurses (RNs) are underutilized in hospital quality improvement efforts. The research team recommends strategies such as self-directed online modules, mentoring, and better data systems to optimize RN engagement.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Nursing Care Quality·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

A new genre of 'intelligent' micro- and nanomotors

Researchers have successfully created single-molecule 'intelligent' motors powered by common enzymes, catalase and urease. These motors can generate force and move in specific directions, even at the nanoscale, with implications for applications in medicine, engineering, and more.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 30, 2013

Scientists may have received millions in duplicate funding

Researchers analyzed over 858,717 grant and contract summaries to identify potential instances of duplicate funding. They found strong evidence that tens of millions of dollars may have been spent on grants where at least a portion was already being funded.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

The pros and cons of 'ecolabels' in cleaning products

The use of ecolabels in cleaning products is a topic of debate, with supporters arguing they inform consumers about product sustainability, while opponents claim they can be confusing. The American Chemical Society explores the pros and cons of these environmental certification seals in its latest cover story.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

In beef production, cow-calf phase contributes most greenhouse gases

A new study estimates that the cow-calf phase produces the greatest greenhouse gas emissions during beef production, with methane emissions from a roughage diet. This finding highlights the importance of managing cattle feed and nutrition to reduce carbon footprint.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJan 30, 2013

Tuberculosis may lurk in bone marrow stem cells of infected patients, Stanford researchers say

Scientists at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered that tuberculosis bacteria can infiltrate and settle in mesenchymal stem cells in the bone marrow. This finding raises the possibility that other infectious agents may employ similar tactics, providing a new potential target for treatment. The research suggests that u...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Rejuvenation of the Southern Appalachians

New research reveals that topographic relief in the southern Appalachians increased by over 150% since the Miocene era, suggesting a link to post-orogenic regional uplift. The findings contradict previous theories attributing landscape rejuvenation to climate change or erosion, instead supporting an epeirogenic uplift-driven explanation.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateJan 30, 2013

Aging cells lose their grip on DNA rogues

Brown University researchers discovered that as cells age, their ability to defend against parasitic strands of genetic material called transposable elements deteriorates. This breakdown allows the newly freed transposons to take full advantage, potentially leading to a decline in cell function and health.

SourceBrown University·JournalAging Cell·DateJan 30, 2013

3D microchip created

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new type of microchip that allows information to travel in three dimensions. The innovation uses spintronic technology and enables additional storage capacity on chips by spreading data across multiple layers.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

Researchers improve medical units to reduce nursing fatigue, cut costs

A new study by Cornell University researchers offers a spatial solution to boost nurses' efficiency through better design. The research analyzed floor plans and work patterns in five medical-surgical units at US hospitals and found opportunities to improve caregiver workflow.

SourceCornell University·JournalHERD Health Environments Research & Design Journal·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Pioneering study shows that local volunteers increase early breast cancer detection rates in a low-income rural area

A pioneering study published in The Lancet Oncology found that local volunteers increased early breast cancer detection rates in a low-income rural area. The study showed that 70% of women screened were diagnosed with benign lesions or successfully treated for breast cancer, significantly improving long-term survival chances.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJan 30, 2013

How to be a social climber

Researchers discovered that all individuals are social climbers, as they seek to enhance their social importance through connections with central nodes. In hierarchical societies, this inclination leads to a clear identification of central nodes, resulting in an increasing number of social climbers.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalJournal of Statistical Physics·DateJan 30, 2013

Vultures foraging far and wide face a poisonous future

A study of white-backed vulture movements across southern Africa reveals they prefer to forage on private farmland, risking exposure to poisonous veterinary drugs. The birds travel long distances to find food, with some individuals crossing multiple country borders in search of sustenance.

SourceDurham University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Are gender and ethnicity risk factors for metabolic syndrome in children?

A systematic review of medical literature on metabolic syndrome in children found that obesity, male sex, and increasing age are significant risk factors. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome increased substantially when comparing groups of overweight or obese children to whole populations of youths.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMetabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders·DateJan 30, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Empathy and age

A study of over 75,000 adults found that late middle-aged adults, particularly women, report higher levels of emotional reactivity and perspective-taking. This inverted U-shaped pattern suggests a potential link between age-related cognitive changes and empathy.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJan 30, 2013

Virtual superheroes more helpful in real world too

A study published in PLOS ONE found that playing virtual reality games with superpowers increases helpful behavior in the real world. Participants who played as superheroes were more likely to help others after the game compared to those who passedively completed tasks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Light yet safe contender for city streets

The Visio.M project aims to develop a safe and efficient electric vehicle with a lightweight carbon fiber body structure. The design incorporates innovative materials and technologies, such as a monocoque chassis and ultra-lightweight gears, while maintaining the highest level of safety protection.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateJan 30, 2013

UNC scientists unveil a superbug's secret to antibiotic resistance

Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill identified a bacterial enzyme that enables vancomycin resistance to spread among Staphylococcus aureus strains. They also discovered a potential solution by designing a synthetic molecule that blocks the transfer of resistance genes, offering hope for developing effective therapies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Sam Houston State tests prison education programs

The study found that offenders who participated in Windham educational programs generally had lower re-incarceration rates and higher earnings. Participants achieved significantly higher reading, math, and language scores than non-program participants.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Mixed forest provides beneficial effects

A new study by researchers from the University of Gothenburg and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences found that mixed forests provide positive relationships to six different ecosystem services. The study suggests that promoting more varieties of trees may increase these services, including tree growth, carbon sequestration, and...

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2013

Patient satisfaction leads to better HIV care

A study by Baylor College of Medicine found that patient satisfaction with care is associated with higher adherence to antiretroviral therapy and retention in HIV care. Patients who were more satisfied had better clinical outcomes, including improved survival rates.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Rutgers physics professors find new order in quantum electronic material

Rutgers physics professors have discovered a new type of order in an exotic uranium-based material, which may lead to enhanced computer displays and data storage systems. The 'hastatic' order could also enable the creation of more powerful superconducting magnets for medical imaging and high-speed transportation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

Doubt cast on Sir Bernard Lovell's brainwashing

A recent article casts doubt on Sir Bernard Lovell's alleged brainwashing by the Soviets during a Cold War visit. According to Lovell's son Bryan, the reason for his father's illness may have been exhaustion rather than Soviet mind control.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateJan 30, 2013

Researchers see more West Nile virus in orchards and vineyards

Researchers have discovered a link between West Nile virus in mosquitoes and birds, as well as the insects' ability to spread the virus to horses and people. Habitats with high disease prevalence in horses and birds also have more mosquitoes and certain bird species, which contribute to the transmission of the virus.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013
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.