A new study by Colorado State University researchers found no link between moderate red wine consumption and weight gain. Moderate levels of alcohol consumption were shown to not affect blood glucose and insulin levels, which often increase with weight gain.
The ORNL pellet blaster uses frozen pellets to strip contaminants from surfaces, leaving no residue. This method is safer and more efficient than traditional paint stripping methods, making it suitable for various industries including defense, aerospace, and manufacturing.
Researchers described the crystal structure of aldehyde dehydrogenase, a vital enzyme involved in animal and plant health. The study provides insights into how the enzyme metabolizes aldehydes, which are highly reactive compounds that can poison cells and trigger cancers.
The Weizmann Institute is launching an international bioinformatics network to bridge the gap in technology and training between Western countries and developing regions. The network, coordinated by the institute, will provide access to comprehensive bioinformatics data banks and facilitate collaboration among scientists.
Astronomers have detected a flash of light from a distant galaxy, potentially solving a 30-year mystery in astrophysics. The discovery suggests gamma-ray bursts originate from the distant reaches of the universe.
A team of geophysicists has found a partially molten granite pool beneath southwestern Tibet, which could have absorbed India's impact and lifted the plateau. The discovery uses seismic profiling techniques to detect deep earth structures and suggests that the Indian subcontinent's thrust into Asia may have created this zone.
Research shows that older adults have a decreased ability to oxidize fat during exercise, with only one-third the fat oxidation of younger counterparts. However, an intensive 16-week exercise program can help restore normal fat oxidation patterns in elderly individuals.
A new avian DNA 'marker' technique has been successfully adapted to determine the sex of marbled murrelets from blood samples collected in the field. Results show a ratio of almost two males to one female, raising concerns about declining populations and logging practices.
Research on nematodes led to the discovery of potential anti-cancer drugs and antibiotics. The substances, called xenorxides, have proven more effective than traditional anti-cancer drugs in some test settings.
Astronomers studied comet Hale-Bopp with the Hubble Space Telescope, finding that its nucleus may be more complex than previously thought. The findings suggest that components like carbon disulfide ice are not contained within water, but rather in separate regions of the nucleus.
Researchers found cyanogen gas in Comet Hale-Bopp, suggesting the same process controls its evolution regardless of distance from the sun. The discovery supports a key theory explaining how comets release this gas.
The study identifies mutations of P-TEN in advanced brain, breast, and prostate cancers, suggesting a new potential target for cancer treatment. The discovery represents one of the first genes implicated in aggressive brain tumors.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a protein called Homer that strengthens the link between drug addiction and long-term memory. The study found that Homer binds to nerve cells' message-receiving structures, potentially leading to new treatments for addiction.
Researchers use infrared spectrometer to study Comet Hale-Bopp, revealing an abundance of silicate grains with crystalline and amorphous structures. The findings provide valuable clues about the comet's makeup and potential origins of the solar system.
Researchers at Cornell University have achieved a breakthrough in materials science by growing single crystals of any material on a semiconductor substrate. This technique opens doors for manufacturing new classes of devices in optoelectronics and microelectronics, including lasers, detectors, sensors, and computer chips.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered a novel method for delivering drugs orally using tiny, biocompatible beads that stick to intestinal tissues and slowly erode to release drugs. The technique has shown promise in treating inflammatory bowel disorders such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
A study of wild guppies in Trinidad found they can evolve between 10,000 to 10 million times faster than the fossil record. This suggests short-term experiments can provide insight into evolutionary changes over millions of years.
Brown University researchers have developed a novel oral drug delivery system using erodible plastic microspheres that can improve the efficacy of drugs like insulin. The microspheres, engineered with bioadhesive polymers, increase absorption rates and enhance therapeutic effects.
Chemists at the University of Warwick's Computational Chemistry Group have made significant discoveries about the biological reaction that causes gout. They found that a hydroxide ion is involved in the catalysis process, rather than an oxygen atom, which could lead to the development of inhibitors for the illness.
A Simon Fraser University study of 409 expatriates found that overseas assignments often lead to uncertain advancement prospects, decreased responsibilities, and family adjustment challenges. Executives report feeling unsupported during post-assignment reintegration, leading to a loss of value for their international experience.
The RFF briefing papers provide topical, timely, and non-technical information and analysis on climate change policies. Key policy lessons and economic implications are outlined, including the role of economics in addressing climate change risks and costs.
The new technique allows doctors to find the sentinel lymph node, reducing swelling and side effects. In over 90% of cases, the sentinel lymph node is found, offering women more effective treatment with fewer complications.
The Pediatric ACTG Protocol 185 clinical trial was stopped early due to an unexpectedly low rate of infant HIV infection, making it impossible to compare treatment outcomes. The study confirmed the effectiveness of AZT in reducing mother-to-child HIV transmission, extending its benefits to women with more advanced disease and previous ...
A study of 100 PSAs found that narratives showing consequences of violence are more appealing to adolescents and effective in reducing violence, unlike PSAs with celebrities simply telling kids not to be violent.
A new object recognition technique developed at Johns Hopkins University could help robots sort and pack chocolates with accuracy. By comparing distinctive series of numbers, called electronic signatures, a computer can tell how closely two objects resemble one another.
Forensic entomologist Gail Anderson's work helps secure conviction for two Canadian bear poachers. Insect egg samples from the victims' bodies were analyzed to determine the time of death, tying the suspects to the crime scene.
A Colorado State University researcher has developed a real-time radar system that can identify airborne objects even in dense air traffic, improving air safety and efficiency. The technology was tested successfully and is set to be installed in military aircraft, with commercial applications also being pursued.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a reinforced polymer composite material with embedded Nitinol fibers, which can dissipate energy to withstand great impacts. The material's most effective use is seen in toughening airplane composite structures and improving protection against mine fragments and vehicular impact.
A study published in Neurology has identified long-term exposure to copper and manganese as a significant risk factor for developing Parkinson's disease. The study found that occupational exposure to these metals, either alone or in combination with other metals like lead and iron, increased the risk of acquiring the disease.
The collaboration aims to develop methodologies and models for managing ecosystems sustainably. The consortium will utilize the MAB biosphere network, research facilities at Biosphere 2 Center, and existing projects in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina.
Researchers at Georgia Tech are using the university's rooftop solar system to study the performance and reliability of solar power systems. The system has operated close to expectations, producing 162.2 megawatt hours of electricity in its first seven-month period, but factors such as weather conditions have affected energy output.
The President's R&D budget for FY 1998 will cut federal R&D spending by an additional 14 percent (in inflation-adjusted dollars) by 2002. Funding for basic research would barely stay ahead of inflation at $15.3 billion, representing a 3.0 percent increase over FY 1997.
The International Research Institute (IRI) will distribute climate predictions several months in advance to a global network of agencies and policymakers. The institute combines the scientists and resources of two leading climate research centers, aiming to improve longer-range predictions and mitigate extreme weather.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study finds that pregnant workers with demanding jobs are more likely to give birth prematurely. Black women appear to be at a greater risk from job strain than white women, with high-strain jobs increasing the risk by about 40%.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science reports that New England universities rely heavily on federal R&D funding, which could be cut by up to 33% by 2002. The region's economy and workforce will suffer if these programs are reduced.
A new laparoscopic technique has made kidney donation easier, with reduced recovery time and complications. The procedure involves a small incision and minimizes blood loss, allowing donors to recover in one-third less time compared to traditional surgery.
Researchers found that self-administered IL-2 injections can produce significant increases in CD4+ T cells in HIV-infected patients. Those with higher initial CD4+ T cell counts had the best responses, with almost half sustaining increases of at least 200 cells/mm³ after one year.
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.