The FDA has approved fexofenadine, a new antihistamine that effectively relieves seasonal allergy symptoms without the risk of fatal heart conditions. Developed by Georgetown pharmacologist Raymond Woosley, fexofenadine was discovered through research on Seldane's cardiac side effects.
Professors Fraser Stoddart and David Williams successfully link complex synthetic molecules, enabling the creation of molecular chains with various applications in information storage systems and molecular computing. The achievement represents a significant step towards storing data within molecules smaller than a grain of salt.
A new study by the National Science Foundation reveals that basic college science courses primarily serve as a filter for promising students, leaving the majority without a deep understanding of science. This has significant implications for the quality of teacher education and the nation's pursuit of world-class research.
A new set of curriculum guides, developed with NSF support, helps teachers stimulate students' curiosity about life in the universe. The guides provide tools for elementary school teachers to explore topics like planetary systems and extraterrestrial life.
The ACE spacecraft, a NASA mission to study the nature and origin of energetic particles from the sun and beyond our solar system, is nearing completion at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. The spacecraft will provide advance warning of powerful geomagnetic storms that can disrupt power grids and communications o...
Researchers at NIAID have determined the entire genetic sequence of molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), which causes persistent and sometimes disfiguring skin lesions in HIV-infected individuals. The complete DNA sequence will enable testing of drugs against MCV genes and studying how the virus evades immune responses.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have made a surprising discovery about the movement of proteins within the Golgi apparatus. The enzymes, which are crucial for various cellular processes, were found to be mysteriously retained in the organelle despite their rapid movement, contradicting long-held assumptions about their function.
Researchers found a mutant gene in C. elegans that doubles adult lifespan when mutated, suggesting its role in regulating aging. The gene encodes a PI(3)K enzyme, which may trigger a biochemical program leading to decreased aging and senescence.
A new study by the NHLBI shows that bone marrow transplantation can provide a cure for young patients with sickle cell disease who have a matched sibling. The procedure has an overall survival rate of 90% and successfully transplanted 73% of participants, free from sickle cell disease.
Researchers have discovered complex organic molecules and mineralogical evidence of past life in the Martian meteorite ALH84001. The study suggests that these findings could be indicative of primitive life on early Mars.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a protein glitch as an early problem in inherited Alzheimer's disease. Presenilin normally cleaves in two, but a disease-causing mutation can prevent this crucial change. This study may lead to new treatments by targeting the point of cleavage with drugs or other interventions.
Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new method called photometric-redshift astronomy, which allows for rapid distance measurements to distant galaxies. This technique resolves a long-standing dilemma in cosmology research by enabling the study of galaxy evolution and dark matter.
A new vehicle has been found to carry therapeutic proteins into living cells, overcoming a major hurdle in the delivery of protein-based drugs. The discovery uses small peptides to substitute for bulky components of bacterial toxins and deliver therapeutic proteins into cells.
Researchers challenge conventional wisdom that scraping off bee stings is more effective than pinching them out. Immediate removal of the sting, rather than its method of removal, reduces the amount of venom injected. Delaying removal increases welt size and envenomization.
NeXstar Pharmaceuticals has created an aptamer-based diagnostic assay for its VEGF inhibitor, enhancing cancer treatment possibilities. The ELONA system uses an aptamer to detect small amounts of clinically important substances, overcoming limitations of traditional antibodies in diagnostic assays.
A study found that aerobic exercise programs improve cardiovascular function in sedentary older people, even those with less reserve mechanisms to augment their heart function. The results suggest that it's never too late to benefit from exercise and improve cardiac fitness, regardless of age or prior physical conditioning.
Duke University researchers identify a new target for stopping drug resistance in cancer cells by targeting the cellular pump that expels chemotherapy drugs. The study found that certain immunosuppressive drugs can block this pump by removing a vital activator, FKBP12, allowing chemotherapy drugs to be effective.
Researchers are finding ways to repurpose old tires by using them in the construction of roads and retaining walls. Tire chips have been used successfully in three major new bridges in southern Maine and sections of three Maine roads, showing significantly less frost heave than conventionally built sections.
Researchers have developed a new technique to predict earthquake magnitude based on rock structure, providing more accurate assessments of seismic risk. By analyzing data from 37,000 earthquakes in southern California, the team created 3D images of subsurface rock formations that reveal varying maximum depths along and across faults.
The study recommends that foldaway powered wheelchairs have a maximum weight of 14.19kg to ensure safe handling and portability. This is below the current average weight of commercially available wheelchairs, allowing for more accessible designs that cater to users with limited exercise endurance.
A European research project will develop high-tech sensors for cars to detect air pollution and enforce EU regulations. The sensors will be capable of detecting a range of gases, including CO, in real-time, allowing drivers to take action to reduce their impact on the environment.
Researchers developed CLOTSIM, a computer model simulating blood clot dissolution, to provide critical information on thrombolytic agents. The program helps predict clinical outcomes and tailor therapies to reduce patient risks.
A rare lung disease thought to affect only people from Japan, China, and Korea has been diagnosed in five US patients with no Asian ancestry. Long-term antibiotic use can effectively treat the condition, but mortality rates remain high if left untreated.
A study demonstrates that the common cat flea is a competent vector for Bartonella henselae, the cause of cat scratch disease. Flea infestation control may reduce transmission between cats, and thus humans via scratches. Direct transmission from cat to cat cannot be demonstrated without fleas.