Researchers have found a new technique to reduce organic and halogenated solvents used in industries, replacing them with environmentally benign carbon dioxide. This breakthrough could decrease waste by up to 100-fold and has implications for society.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School Medicine discovered that mature B cells can re-activate V(D)J recombination, allowing them to produce different antibodies and adapt to new antigens. This finding may help scientists better understand and control the immune system's response to infections.
Scientists at Purdue University have uncovered the mechanism by which disease-resistant plants recognize disease-causing microbes. The discovery reveals that a protein-protein interaction between an enzyme called Pto kinase and a protein produced by the bacterium alerts the plant's defense mechanisms, leading to effective resistance.
Researchers examine obstacles to international technology diffusion, including funding limitations, investment distortions, and intellectual property issues. They also investigate strengthening economic incentives for mutually-beneficial technology adoption.
The Piping Plover population has shown a significant increase of 7% since the last census in 1991, primarily attributed to conservation efforts along the Atlantic coast. However, midcontinent bird populations have declined due to massive nest flooding on the Missouri River and lack of habitat improvement in prairie potholes.
The primary visual cortex, V1, is found to process optical illusions and complex images, contrary to previous beliefs. This discovery provides insights into how the brain cooperates to process different aspects of vision.
Scientists have discovered a basic gene-for-gene resistance mechanism in plants, triggered by the interaction of proteins produced by both a resistance gene and an avirulence gene in the disease-causing microorganism. This finding has wide application for understanding how plants identify and resist diverse pathogens.
Researchers studied genetic mutations in patients with congenital lipoid adrenal hyperplasia, a devastating disorder affecting steroid hormone production. The study revealed that StAR protein plays a central role in steroid hormone synthesis, with mutant proteins blocking cholesterol conversion and causing cellular damage.
Researchers investigated urbanized watersheds in four US regions over 50 years, comparing stream flow data with population growth. They found that higher population densities led to increased stream flow despite lower precipitation levels.
The NHLBI and HCFA have announced a clinical trial to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) for patients with emphysema. The study aims to determine whether LVRS is a viable treatment option for this population, which currently has limited treatment options.
A new company, Xanthon Inc., will develop and market a genetic detection diagnostic kit using advanced electrochemistry. The kit aims to improve the efficiency, speed, and accuracy of cancer and infectious disease diagnoses.