Scientists find that excessive nitrogen deposition in grasslands leads to loss of diversity, extinction of native species, and decreased carbon storage. The study, funded by the National Science Foundation, suggests that nitrogen pollution is a major threat to ecosystem functioning.
A national survey found that HMOs cover a range of laser technologies from 25% to 90%, with independent practice associations covering more advanced procedures. The study suggests that cost is becoming a factor in HMO decision-making, potentially limiting access to new medical technologies.
Researchers have identified two interacting genes linked to adult-onset diabetes, which regulate gene expression in the liver, kidney, and intestine. The discovery opens up new avenues for treating this complex disorder.
A Johns Hopkins study found that parathyroid gland surgery is more successful and less expensive at academic medical centers with specialized facilities and experienced surgeons. The results showed a cure rate of 97% at high-volume centers compared to 80% at lower-volume hospitals.
A new index developed by Jamie Coleman and David Styer uses bird counts to evaluate the condition of wetland habitats. The model identifies thriving wetlands with high water-loving bird populations and declining wetlands with fewer birds adapted to drier environments.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered a new gene called KiSS-1 that suppresses the metastasis of melanoma in laboratory mice. The gene, located on chromosome 1, reduces the spread of melanoma by at least 50 percent of the time and may be the most potent gene to block or suppress metastasis in human cancer.
A new study has identified a common functional problem in enlarged heart disease that causes sudden death in athletes, regardless of the genetic cause. This finding suggests that a single therapeutic approach may be effective for all victims of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a leading cause of sudden death in young adults.
Researchers analyzed data from 958 individuals and found equal rates of chlamydial infection in men and women. The study suggests that diagnostic tests using PCR or LCR may be effective in controlling the spread of Chlamydia.
A study by Dianne Tice found that procrastination's initial enjoyment can turn into a heavy toll as deadlines loom, causing unforeseen events and increased stress. Procrastinators who fail to complete tasks often experience severe health problems, lower grades, and reduced work quality.
A multidisciplinary team is building an experimental facility to test the effects of combined ozone and carbon dioxide on forest stands. The project aims to understand how trees will respond to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide in conjunction with other pollutants, such as tropospheric ozone.
Researchers at UNC-CH and Penn State University have identified a gene called KiSS-1 that controls the spread of malignant melanoma in laboratory mice. This finding may help doctors distinguish between tumors that will colonize other organs and those that will not.
Research by Cybele Raver found that children whose parents actively directed their visual attention spent more time distracting themselves away from a source of distress. These strategies are indicative of social competence and lead to better relationships with peers.
Researchers at ORNL have developed a technique that combines laser light with pharmaceutical agents to selectively kill breast cancer cells. The laser delivers photons to the target tissue, activating an ingested agent that disables DNA replication and halts tumor growth.
A twin study by Yale University psychologist J. Steven Reznick found that environment plays a greater role in how many words a child understands than genetic factors. The study also showed that language comprehension rather than spoken language at ages 14 and 20 months predicts intelligence test scores at 24 months.
The COMPS project aims to develop a unique networked cluster of largely off-the-shelf equipment, which will be put to work by scientists and then evaluated. The challenge is to overcome communication delays or latency that have been inherent when clusters of computers are linked together via a network.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered a novel group of compounds without nitrogen that recognize the same molecular targets as common drugs, including Prozac and Ritalin. These experimental compounds appear to be as powerful as their traditional counterparts.
Researchers have developed a new imaging technique to visualize brain cells releasing serotonin in humans, potentially resolving the safety debate over two popular diet drugs. The method could provide valuable information on the risks of fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine, and its applications extend beyond diet drug studies.
Scientists at Duke University have discovered that a bacterial protein structure plays a crucial role in preventing genetic flaws from translating into diseases. The research reveals that the protein interacts with helicases, which are involved in several genetic diseases, including Werner's syndrome and Cockayne's syndrome.
Researchers at the University of Chicago Medical Center have identified a mutation in a small flowering plant that disrupts male-female communication, leading to pollen tubes wandering aimlessly. This defect is similar to self-sterility observed in many plant species, which helps maintain genetic diversity.
Engineers have successfully integrated a porous silicon light-emitting diode into conventional microelectronic circuitry, creating an all-silicon system that can process both light and electricity. The breakthrough strengthens the material to withstand manufacturing processes, making it more suitable for mass production.
A recent analysis of ACTG 076 data found that the risk of perinatal transmission of HIV can occur even when a woman has little or no detectable virus in her blood. Offering AZT therapy to all pregnant HIV-infected women is crucial, regardless of their stage of disease.
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a plant-based bioremediation process that uses vegetation to clean up hazardous chemicals from contaminated sites. This method is cheaper than traditional methods, with estimated annual costs of $15,000 compared to $4 million, and can remove up to 10 pounds per acre daily.
Research suggests postmature infants exhibit increased tremors and difficulty calming down after consuming sugar solution, a potential indicator of altered opioid pathways. The study aims to understand the long-term effects of Clifford's syndrome on infant development and behavior.
Researchers tracked eight female leatherback turtles using satellite transmitters and found they prefer specific ocean corridors extending from Central America to the Galapagos Islands. The discovery highlights the importance of considering these corridors in conservation efforts, as international fishing fleets threaten turtle survival.
Valery Terwilliger's research on plant growth in Central America aims to inform reforestation efforts and capitalize on native species. The study reveals how well plants use carbon dioxide and water in tropical forests, which can aid in restoring lost ecosystems.
A new system, Home Health Monitor, developed by Dr. Boaz Avitall, closely monitors congestive heart failure patients in their homes, resulting in fewer readmissions and lower healthcare costs. The system detects complications early and makes patients feel secure, reducing hospitalization rates.
A new type of MRI scan called dynamic kinematic MRI imaging has been shown to accurately diagnose joint problems, including knee, ankle, and temporomandibular joint issues. This technology allows doctors to pinpoint the exact point in range of motion where the problem occurs, enabling more precise diagnoses and treatment options.
Researchers identified how smokeless tobacco causes blood vessels to leak in the mouth leading to inflammation. The study found that exposure produces bradykinin, a potent pro-inflammatory peptide.
Children drank ale at breakfast, lunch and dinner, with average daily consumption being a gallon for adults and less among children. Women brewed most of the ale consumed during the 14th and 15th centuries, challenging common assumptions about women's roles in medieval society.
The UW-Siemens image processor enables the creation of multiple diagnostic applications, increasing clinical efficiency. It allows for real-time panoramic imaging of internal organs and their surroundings, revolutionizing diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers at Ohio University found evidence that memory loss with aging may be connected to malfunctioning genes controlling spatial memory. The study identified unique DNA sequences in old mice brains, which could lead to the development of therapies targeting age-related cognitive decline.
Researchers found that people at high risk of developing hypertension have a decreased pain sensitivity, which may be due to an overactive brain center. This could lead to the suppression of pain signals and potentially affect blood pressure control.
Researchers at UT-Houston Institute of Molecular Medicine have discovered sentrin, a protein that protects cells from apoptosis by blocking Fas/APO-1 and TNFR receptors. This finding has significant implications for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and degenerative diseases such as arthritis and Alzheimer's.
Scientists have discovered a new gene that causes Rieger syndrome, a rare disorder affecting tooth development and leading to glaucoma in 50% of cases. The RGS gene is similar in structure to genes found in fruit flies and mice, suggesting its role in human development.
Researchers found that a low-fat diet had no impact on memory loss in old mice, contrary to earlier studies suggesting a correlation between healthy eating and cognitive preservation. The study's findings add weight to theories suggesting that certain genes or stress hormones may contribute to age-related memory decline.
A team of biologists has discovered a new species of tiny frog in Cuba's Monte Iberia rainforest. The frog, Eleutherodactylus iberia, measures just one centimeter long and is the smallest known tetrapod, a group that includes all animals with backbones except fishes.
A Cornell University scholar reexamines the Nuremberg Medical Trial, highlighting the use of a fictional report to justify medical research on US prisoners. The paper also critiques Andrew Ivy's testimony at the trial and its implications for the field of medical ethics.
Scientists have narrowed down the list of suspect peanut proteins from 30 to seven, a significant step towards developing effective treatments for peanut allergies. The identification of these specific proteins opens up new avenues for investigation, including gene injection therapy and vaccine development.
Johns Hopkins researchers have identified two genetic mutations that may cause or contribute to nearly half of all non-inherited cases of ALS. The mutations involve a glutamate transporter protein, EAAT2, which normally deactivates and recycles glutamate, leading to increased paralysis and death in two to five years.
The world's first Dynamic Voltage Restorer (DVR) has entered commercial service on Duke Power's system, correcting a severe voltage sag at Orian Rugs in South Carolina. The DVR uses advanced power electronics to rapidly inject energy onto the line and restore 100% voltage within 30 cycles.
Researchers found that naked mole-rats prefer to recruit family members to new food sources rather than eating them themselves. The rodents use a unique recruitment chirp and chemical trails to guide their kin to the food, even in pitch-black tunnels.
SRI International will operate a 150-foot parabolic reflector antenna to test UHF communication signals from the Mars Global Surveyor spacecraft. The team will analyze received signals in real-time and send simulated signals to check the UHF link for future Mars missions.
Researchers found two production-boosting genes, YLD1 and YLD2, in wild rice O. rufipogon that improved crop yields by 15-17% when combined with domesticated varieties. The study aims to reverse genetic erosion and selectively enrich the genetic base of crop plants.
The discovery of EUV emissions in the Coma cluster suggests a large cloud of cooler matter, totaling up to 10 trillion of our Suns, which could help clear up a major problem with these galactic groupings. The findings also hint at the presence of normal baryonic matter instead of dark matter or exotic particles.
Scientists at Yerkes Primate Research Center of Emory University found that cocaine significantly alters the activity of nearly 20 genes in the brain, many of which have never been identified. The changes occur during transcription and may have serious long-lasting consequences for addiction.
Scientists have identified a major gene, HPC-1, that predisposes men to prostate cancer, located on chromosome 1. The gene is believed to contribute to at least a third of familial prostate cancer cases.
A study in rats found that natural estrogen levels provide significant neuroprotection against stroke damage, sparing up to three times more brain tissue than male counterparts. Researchers are now investigating the optimal dose of estrogen for this effect and its potential as a brain-protective therapy.
Researchers have exposed the precise interactions between antibiotics and bacterial ribosomes, revealing a 'lock-and-key' system that sheds light on antibiotic effectiveness and resistance. The study highlights the importance of targeting RNA in cells and provides potential strategies for designing new, less toxic drugs.
A flaw detection system developed by the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory is helping textile plants in the U.S. improve fabric quality and reduce defects, which could lead to cost savings and job preservation.
Researchers found that nitric oxide synthase is activated within minutes after nerve cell damage in medicinal leeches, leading to regeneration. The study suggests NOS may aid in minimizing tissue damage and infection by flagging down microglia at the site of injury.
Researchers at the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center have developed a new brain mapping technology that can create realistic 3D images of brain activity in real-time. This breakthrough uses functional MRI data to produce high-resolution images, overcoming the previous bottleneck in processing time.
The U.S. Geological Survey detected MTBE in urban stormwater samples from 16 cities, with concentrations below the EPA's health advisory limit. In New England, MTBE was detected in 24% of ground-water samples, also at low levels.
The study reveals that more men than women were high-cost claimants, with the 50-59 age group accounting for the highest percentage of claims. The average charges per case were $80,000 for congenital disorders and perinatal conditions, highlighting areas where healthcare needs exist.
Scientists from UCLA and the University of Washington found that a combination of factors, including asteroid impacts and sea level changes, contributed to the extinction of 70 percent of species. The impact of meteorites accounts for 50-75% of extinctions, while sea level drop caused 0-25%.
Researchers at Resources for the Future found that biodiversity prospecting provides limited financial benefits for preserving habitats. The study suggests that funding sources other than commercial product research should be explored to support conservation efforts.
Scientists at the University of Georgia have discovered a three-dimensional structure of a fluorescent protein found in jellyfish that resembles a glowing green lantern. This discovery could help make it easier to use the protein as a biomarker for studying gene expression and cell lineage.
Duke University's OK-4 optical klystron FEL, developed in Russia, has begun operating at the institution, producing intense beams of gamma rays and ultraviolet laser light. The device is expected to be used for medical research and answering questions in nuclear physics.
Researchers at Resources for the Future (RFF) argue that tighter ozone standards won't resolve urban smog problems due to local conditions and economic competition. The authors suggest targeting individuals' driving habits and activities as an alternative to mandated regulation.
Duke researchers found that aging female rats treated with estrogen had more connections in a brain area associated with memory formation than did similar untreated rats. The study suggests that replacing estrogens may alleviate minor memory losses sometimes associated with aging.
Researchers have discovered that changing as few as six genes can rapidly change the pattern of spots on a butterfly's wings, leading to new species formation. This study provides insight into the genetic and molecular basis of animal evolution, seasonal variation, and geographical separation.