A Simon Fraser University study of 46 Romanian orphans found that one-third have significant development, social, and behavioral problems. The researchers recommend better preparation programs for adoptive parents, thorough medical checkups, and infant development programs to mitigate the impact of orphanage life.
The Pacific Northwest's high-tech industry may be hindered by proposed federal funding cuts for research and development. The region's universities, which receive significant funding from the federal government, are particularly vulnerable to these reductions, as they rely heavily on this support to fuel their research and innovation.
A recent study conducted among Native Americans has found that periodontal disease significantly increases the risk of developing heart disease in the future. The research revealed a powerful association between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, with diabetes being the only factor showing a stronger association.
A new study reveals that a key signaling mechanism can turn healthy cells into tumors and lead to colon cancer. The researchers identified the role of beta-catenin in this process and found that it is involved in essentially all cases of colon cancer.
A six-month study found that elderly and young women who owned pets had lower blood pressure readings than those without pets. Pet owners experienced physiological benefits comparable to those derived from human companionship, suggesting that pets can play an important role in moderating age-related increases in blood pressure.
A study comparing day care and non-day care groups found that families with access to day care reported higher well-being and lower stress levels. The program provided cost-efficient support, enabling caregivers to continue employment while caring for loved ones.
High-volume logging in Central Africa threatens unique forests and wildlife like gorillas and elephants, WCS warns. The U.S. needs to increase funding and presence to protect the region's forests, according to Wildlife Conservation Society expert Michael Fay.
Researchers detected calcifications in the carotid arteries of 5% of new patients, with many having multiple risk factors for atherosclerosis. The findings suggest that routine dental X-rays could be a valuable tool in detecting patients at risk for stroke.
Scientists have identified a key genetic pathway responsible for 90 percent of colon cancers, which could lead to the development of targeted therapies. The mutation of the APC gene disrupts normal cell regulation, causing uncontrolled growth and cancer.
Neurotrophin-4 triggers abnormalities in early brain development in unborn rats, mimicking human conditions such as epilepsy and mental retardation. The study suggests that neurotrophin-4 can cause too many cells to migrate to a specific layer of the cerebral cortex.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that many patients undergoing gene testing for cancer susceptibility are not adequately informed about the test's benefits and limitations. The survey found that only 19% of patients received genetic counseling prior to testing, and 17% provided written informed consent.
Research shows music can decrease cardiovascular stress and improve coping abilities for patients undergoing ambulatory surgery. Music-listening patients reported lower stress levels and better coping mechanisms than those who did not listen to music.
A groundbreaking study has identified a gene responsible for primary congenital glaucoma, a condition affecting 1 in 2,000 to 1 in 10,000 births. The discovery holds promise for early diagnosis and treatment, potentially preventing blindness, with the potential to be applied to adult-onset primary open angle glaucoma.
Researchers have developed a prototype drug pump that can monitor its own flow rate, ensuring steady stream of medicine and enabling diabetics to manage their condition more effectively. The device is made on a single silicon wafer and uses a titanium-nickel alloy to flex and regulate fluid flow.
The pilot program, developed by Sandia, has reduced vandalism by over 75%, vehicle theft by more than 80% and truancy by 30%. A combination of ID cards, surveillance cameras, and security technologies have helped make the school safer for students and staff.
The FAA and NCAR are working together to develop a new turbulence detection and warning system for the Juneau Airport, which could potentially prevent crashes and injuries. The system uses real-time data from sensors and computer monitors in the control tower to display information on choppy winds and turbulence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a protein called GRIP that clusters neurotransmitter receptors together on brain cells, enabling faster and stronger communication between nerve cells. This discovery has the potential to play a role in learning and memory.
A new laser therapy, transmyocardial revascularization (TMR), has been found to be effective in reducing chest pain in patients with coronary artery disease. The procedure creates new blood-carrying channels in the heart muscle, improving oxygen supply and reducing symptoms.
A recent meteorite study has provided insights into Mars' formation by analyzing volatile elements in Martian meteorites. The findings indicate that the planet experienced at least two fractionation events, which allowed all elements to remain and record past events.
Scientists are simulating a small-scale environment with increased carbon dioxide levels to study the impact on forests and ecosystems. They will monitor tree growth, soil changes, and other biological interactions in the controlled area.
Researchers from Stanford University and IBM's Almaden Research Center successfully measured forces of infinitesimal magnitude for the first time using a new method called magnetic resonance force microscopy. The technique enables the detection of atto-newton forces, which are one billionth of a billionth of a newton.
Researchers at ORNL have developed ceramic valves that offer longer life and better durability for heavy-equipment engines. The valves were tested in a mine haul truck engine and accumulated over 2,000 hours without failing.
A recent Henry Ford study reveals that denial of anger is a stronger predictor for death and cardiac incidents than traditional risk factors. Patients tend to minimize their emotional well-being, making it difficult for physicians to accurately assess their risk factors.
Researchers have developed a theory to explain the sudden change of rare earth mirror materials into transparent windows when exposed to hydrogen. This phenomenon has potential applications in smart windows for energy savings.
Law enforcement teams can practice responding to hostage situations using a virtual reality simulation called VRaptor. The simulation allows participants to determine who are the hostages and save them, take prisoner those kidnappers who surrender, and shoot those who fire weapons.
Researchers found that bulimics exhibit a range of physiological and psychological problems, including abnormal blood pressure, poor response to stress, and low self-esteem. The study also revealed that bulimics are more likely to experience cardiovascular problems and major depression.
The study found a significant decline in chronic disability rates for people 65 and older, with the largest rate of decline occurring from 1989 to 1994. The researchers attribute this trend to medical advances and technological improvements.
Researchers at Indiana University launched a full-scale expedition to explore ancient Taino Indian sites in the Dominican Republic. The underwater site has yielded over two dozen artifacts, providing valuable information about the tribe's culture and interactions with Europeans.
Researchers can now customize surfaces to specific qualities, such as absorbency, adhesiveness, and bio-activity. This breakthrough has far-reaching implications for fields like medicine, microelectronics, and oil recovery.
Astronomers, led by Professor Patterson, use digital cameras and computers to record binary star variations. This allows for continuous monitoring of stars across the globe, providing valuable data to aid in understanding celestial mechanics.
Research by Indiana University kinesiologists suggests that encouraging leg movements on a miniature treadmill can lead to an eight-to-12 month improvement in the time Down syndrome babies take their first independent steps. This intervention is found to decrease family stress and facilitate cognitive, spatial, and social development.
A survey of UMass biology graduates found that those with research experience are significantly happier in their present job. Over 85% of these graduates report being satisfied, compared to just 46% of those without research experience.
A Duke University study found that patients who received magnesium during CPR were 69% less likely to experience brain damage and had better neurological outcomes. The researchers discovered that magnesium may have neuroprotective effects by preventing calcium flow into brain cells, but more trials are needed to confirm the results.
A study by UC Davis researchers found that protein-deprived diet reduces life expectancy in both male and female Medflies, but females are harder hit. This reversal of the natural lifespan advantage suggests a vulnerable window of time for females during reproduction.
The GovNews Project introduces a new category on Usenet, facilitating the delivery of official notices, news, announcements, reports, and publications from government agencies. Millions of people will now be able to participate in discussions on topics like privatization, procurements, and environmental issues.
The European Science Association aims to foster debate on the relationship between science and society in a pan-European spirit. It seeks to involve young scientists, media professionals, industrialists, teachers, and other stakeholders in its activities.
A study by Joel Milgram found that a small number of teenagers successfully completed high school while living alone, with most valuing the sense of freedom. Despite struggling with poverty and parental conflicts, these students maintained academic performance and even improved their lives through independent means.
US unemployment remains below 6%, with record employment rates globally. North Carolina's economy is robust, with a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $165.65 billion in the third quarter of 1996, exceeding national growth. Despite a concerning education system, Smith recommends policy changes to enhance economic prospects.
Dr. Bob Reinert recommends states adopt a single set of guidelines to minimize exposure to contaminants in fish. Effective guidelines can help anglers filter out unwanted chemicals from their catch.
Researchers at Duke University found a significant decrease in disability rates among older people in the US between 1982 and 1994, with a relative decline of 14.5%. The number of functional problems also decreased, particularly among those aged 65-74, 75-84, and 85 and older.
A novel mechanism has been initiated at UC Davis to pool university and industry resources, compensating nations for valuable genetic material. The Genetic Resources Recognition Fund will finance graduate fellowships for students from countries that originally provided the genetic material.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are investigating soybean component genistein's potential to prevent and treat cancer. The study aims to determine safe doses and treatment efficacy in humans, building on existing evidence from Japanese diets rich in soybeans.
A group of Duke University engineering students designed and built a custom-made goalie slider for Daniel Delimata, a cerebral palsy patient who was unable to participate in street hockey games. The slider allows him to move more efficiently and effectively, improving his coordination, balance, and overall playing experience.
Researchers propose optimality theory to explain how infants quickly learn complex languages. The idea suggests that a basic understanding of language is already present in the brain, requiring only fine-tuning mechanisms to acquire specific grammar rules.
Astronomers worldwide are gathering data from comet Hale-Bopp with a festival of observations, revealing secrets about comets' composition and behavior. The raw material will construct the most intricate portrait of a comet to date, providing insights into the early solar system.
Cancerous cells produce high amounts of free-radicals that promote uncontrolled cell growth; antioxidants and protein inhibitors can suppress this process, slowing down runaway cell division.
The new map reveals hot spots for genes and a large region where DNA remains intact across generations. It also identifies variations in chemical composition along the chromosome, shedding light on X's genetic code
A new study published in Science by a team led by University of Wisconsin-Madison geochemist John W. Valley reveals low-temperature origin for the carbonate globules found within the meteorite ALH84001, lending powerful support to the notion that features of the meteorite may have been formed by living organisms.
Researchers visualize calcium stored deep within intact muscle and brain cells, discovering tiny, discrete compartments that can be opened or closed by drugs or natural chemicals. This finding could lead to a better understanding of physiological mechanisms underlying high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, and aging.
A teleapprenticeship program is being tested in teacher education to connect students with experts, providing a learning model that benefits both on and off campus. The program has shown success in making teaching more sustainable by involving multiple people in the process.
Scientists at the University of Illinois are investigating how glucocorticoids help regulate the body's response to infection, including changes in behavior. Glucocorticoids appear to modulate cytokine production and reduce behavioral effects, providing a protective mechanism against immune overreaction.
A Johns Hopkins study found that physicians in psychiatry and surgery have a higher risk of divorce, with rates ranging from 51% for psychiatrists to 29% for other specialties. The study suggests that marital counseling during residency training may help strengthen marriages.
The Nutrition Analysis Tool (NAT) allows users to analyze the nutrients in over 5,200 common food items based on daily allowance data from the US Department of Agriculture. Researchers are working to add an energy calculator to help high school athletes at risk for anorexia and bulimia make better nutrition decisions.
A UNC-CH report evaluates the effectiveness of family planning programs in developing countries, identifying key components linked to success. The research emphasizes the importance of evaluation in allocating resources for maximum impact.
A revised ocean depth model developed by Northwestern University geologists significantly better fits observed data, correcting inconsistencies in existing models. By adjusting the assumed thickness of the lithosphere to 95 kilometers, the new model accurately predicts ocean depths surrounding the Hawaiian Islands.
A new software developed by UD researchers can generate a simulated version of reforming scenarios in just 100 CPU seconds, improving the accuracy and speed of modeling catalytic reforming processes. The NetGen reforming software allows researchers to build models in a day instead of months.
Researchers found that post-exercise meals containing amino acids and carbohydrates can enhance recovery and peak-performance levels. Eating oat-based cereal before exercise also helped fight fatigue and hunger.
Researchers support a low-temperature origin for carbonate globules in the Martian meteorite ALH84001, suggesting microscopic depositions may be fossilized bacteria. The study uses secondary ion mass spectrometry to analyze oxygen and carbon isotope ratios, indicating a potential formation temperature of less than 300 degrees C.
Scientists argue that computer models and satellites are useful tools, but only when their limitations are well understood. They found that most of the difference between MSU and surface trends could be explained by two significant drops in MSU data for 1981 and 1991.
The study, published in the EMBO Journal, shows that viral tails play a crucial role in controlling the shape and formation of new viral particles. The research demonstrates the importance of these protein parts in the development of the virus.