Over 1,500 scientists, including most Nobel laureates in science, call on governments to act immediately to prevent devastating consequences of human-induced global warming. A strong climate treaty would address the planet's most serious threats and protect future generations.
A new coating developed by Sandia National Laboratories has increased sensor sensitivity by a factor of about 500, making it ideal for detecting dangerous molecules in the air or water. This technology could aid in combatting terrorism and also benefit industries such as oil and pharmaceuticals.
Infants born to mothers imprisoned during pregnancy have healthier birthweights, on average heavier than infants born to mothers jailed at other times. Research suggests that prenatal care, food, and shelter may contribute to this phenomenon, possibly due to reduced domestic and sexual abuse.
Researchers discovered identical DNA fingerprints in bacterial cultures from two TB patients who were bronchoscoped at the same hospital. The study emphasizes the importance of maintaining TB DNA fingerprint registries to identify unsuspected transmission modes.
Researchers created a topical hand cream that prevents two common latex allergy reactions, sensitization and contact dermatitis. The cream's zinc gel composition forms a protective matrix on the skin's surface, binding soluble latex proteins and other irritants to prevent allergic responses.
Researchers develop novel approach to block HIV virus from invading white blood cells, potentially treating AIDS patients with genetic modification and reinfusion of immune-boosting lymphocytes. This strategy may provide a new paradigm for HIV treatment, protecting cells from infection rather than inhibiting replication.
New research from Cornell University suggests that African women working outside the home may face
Researchers have created an efficient method to study Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) using transposon mutagenesis, allowing them to examine the effect of individual gene mutations on the bacteria's ability to grow or cause disease. This breakthrough enables the development of new drug targets and potential vaccine candidates.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a modified filtration system that effectively traps heavy metals and improves water quality. The partial exfiltration trench (PET) system shows trapping efficiencies ranging from 82 to 97 percent, even in heavy rainstorms.
Researchers found that growing strands of DNA can accurately incorporate a nucleotide that closely resembles thymine but lacks hydrogen bonding ability. This finding suggests that the distinctive shapes and sizes of DNA bases may underpin the impressive 99.99-percent accuracy of DNA replication.
A new study suggests that inhibiting poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) enzyme may protect nerve cells from energy loss and prevent irreversible damage after a stroke. The research, published in Nature Medicine, found that genetically modified mice without the PARP gene experienced reduced brain damage compared to unaltered mice.
University of Notre Dame paleontologist J. Keith Rigby discovered the largest Tyrannosaur skeleton on record, but it was found to be seriously damaged by poachers on a northeastern Montana cattle ranch. The damage includes two-thirds of the left side of the skull missing and both lower jaws also destroyed.
A new book reviews the evolution of home economics, examining its influence on women's options and careers. The book brings together perspectives from historians, educators, and economists to provide a comprehensive understanding of home economics' development.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified a novel death-receptor gene called KILLER/DR5 that responds to chemotherapy and radiation by killing cancer cells. The discovery provides new insights into how cancer cells are killed after treatment, with potential implications for improving cancer therapy.
The study uses fMRI to map brain activity in response to cocaine, revealing a broader range of brain structures involved than previously thought. The nucleus accumbens and amygdala play key roles in the reward system, with the former associated with reinforcement and the latter with incentive.
A new electronic device can detect even small holes in high-pressure gas pipelines, issuing an immediate warning if a pipeline or tank is struck by a hard object. The system relies on listening devices that analyze signal changes from within the vessel to identify leaks.
Scientists have discovered a crucial region on nerve cells that may be essential for the actions of inhaled anesthetics, potentially leading to safer, more potent pain medications. The finding also provides insight into the genetics of alcohol addiction and may help develop new treatments.
The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements is expanding its research support for dietary supplements, with new grants focused on the role of antioxidants in preventing cataract development and intestinal supplementation of amino acids in infants. The ODS will also continue to fund five existing studies in various areas of health and disease.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a novel biochemical mechanism for carbon monoxide poisoning that may lead to new clinical approaches. The study reveals that CO binds to heme proteins, usurping nitric oxide and leading to tissue-damaging oxidants and free radicals.
The American Association of Cereal Chemists' (AACC) 82nd Annual Meeting will take place in San Diego from October 12-16, featuring a technical program with topics such as blood glucose control, cereal carbohydrates, and sensory evaluation. Over 230 exhibitors will showcase the latest equipment and services.
Studies show that nurse home visit programs have enduring positive effects on mothers' and children's lives years later. The programs resulted in fewer cases of child abuse, less childhood injury, and lower welfare use among participating women.
Scientists are using NASA's Michelson interferometer to study protein crystal growth in space, a method that may lead to new treatments for diseases. The device, which was originally used to test the existence of the luminiferous ether, is being repurposed to analyze how molecules assemble into crystals.
Researchers have discovered a way to harness valuable proteins from nearly dead insect pests, producing high-quality pharmaceuticals in a more cost-effective manner. The HeRD system enables the mass production of these proteins, paving the way for the development of novel vaccine treatments and alternative pesticides.
A Stanford doctoral student has developed a dynamic control system that uses Global Positioning System signals to actively control errant oscillations in large space structures. The system can detect centimeter-level precision and automatically fire thrusters to compensate for wayward motions, allowing for stable structure operation.
A team of researchers estimated that the moon formed in a year or less after a massive collision between Earth and a rogue 'protoplanet'. The study, published in Nature, suggests that only about half of the debris from the collision coalesced into the moon, with the rest falling back to Earth.
Researchers at UNC-CH have invented a process using carbon dioxide to separate liquids, promising a more environmentally friendly alternative to toxic solvents. The new method, described in Nature, has shown success in removing dye from water and could be applied in industries releasing vast amounts of waste water into the environment.
Weiss's research focuses on controlling Il-4 gene expression to develop therapeutic strategies against detrimental effects. Published in top journals, her work aims to improve understanding of Il-4 production regulatory mechanisms.
Researchers at Rockefeller University are conducting a study to examine the potential of three plant-derived compounds - curcumin, rutin, and quercetin - to prevent colorectal cancer. The study aims to determine whether these compounds can safely inhibit the development of colon polyps and reduce cancer risk.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have confirmed the existence of fractional electric charges, one-third that of an electron, in a groundbreaking experiment. The team measured the charge using sophisticated equipment to eliminate noise and detected ripples proportional to the unit of electric charge.
A new study found that adolescents are more likely to disclose sensitive information about smoking, drinking, drug use, sexual behavior, and mental health when doctors assure them of confidentiality. This increases the chances of teens seeking future health care and being honest in their responses.
A recent study found that children whose parents are obese have a significantly higher chance of becoming obese adults. The research examined over 800 young adults and showed that having an obese parent more than doubles the risk of obesity, while having normal-weight parents reduces the risk.
A Georgia State University study found that higher testosterone levels are related to violent crimes and aggressive behavior in women's prisons. The study also discovered that low testosterone was associated with manipulative and sneaky behavior, suggesting a link between hormone levels and dominance.
A study found that 81% of women at risk for breast cancer planned to undergo genetic testing, driven by perceived benefits such as increased breast self-examination and better treatment options. Counseling is crucial to help them make informed decisions and manage potential psychological reactions.
A multicenter study found that antidepressant sertraline highly successful in treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD), with significant benefits seen in mood symptoms and relationship problems. The study showed 62% of women treated with sertraline experienced marked improvement, compared to 34% on placebo.
The study aims to measure how effectively combination drug therapy works during the early stages of HIV infection, with a focus on reducing damage caused by the virus. Researchers hope to determine the optimal duration of treatment for maximum benefit and assess the impact of early treatment on immune system chemicals.
Researchers find preferred shapes and sizes of lead inclusions in aluminum, which affect melting behavior and material properties. The discovery has implications for understanding and engineering the behavior of nanoparticles in various alloys.
Researchers at Purdue University found that a single injection of vitamin A has no impact on the health and fertility of hogs. The study, which tested over 977 sows, showed no difference in total litter size or weight, regardless of when the shot was administered.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed an oral vaccine that may prevent rejection of corneal transplants. The vaccine involves feeding processed corneal cells from donor corneas to recipients over time, training their immune system to accept donated corneas without the need for powerful immunosuppressive drugs.
Scientists found that mice lacking the macrophage elastase enzyme showed no signs of emphysema after heavy smoking. This discovery challenges previous theories and offers new hope for emphysema treatment. Researchers are now exploring metalloproteinase inhibitors to prevent the disease.
Astronomers calculate that a gamma ray burst has expanded to 85 times the size of our solar system and is still growing. The detection uses the 'twinkling' effect in radio astronomy, where the point where twinkling stops allows for diameter measurement.
Researchers found that infants who heard stories with complex words recognized and remembered the words even when spoken differently in a list, indicating they store sound patterns from frequent speech. This study sheds light on how young children learn language and master word meanings.
The University at Buffalo Center for Biosurfaces has received a $900,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to investigate the effects of airborne contaminants on human cardiovascular and respiratory health. Researchers aim to develop new materials that are non-toxic and do not cause adverse reactions in humans.
Researchers have identified a gene responsible for late infantile Batten disease, a devastating genetic disorder that affects about 300 children in the US. The CLN2 gene codes for an enzyme that degrades proteins and its discovery may lead to effective treatment and new insights into the aging process.
The University at Buffalo's School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences is developing a model program to teach medical students and resident physicians empathy and communication skills. The project will use standardized cases and patients to present typical situations they may face in their practices.
The Stanford team perfected a system to control tractors at all speeds with centimeter-level precision, exceeding the best human drivers' accuracy. This technology has potential applications in autonomous tractors and smart roads, improving farm productivity while reducing environmental impact.
The Sandia-developed explosives-detection portal uses chemical preconcentrator technology to identify passengers with recent exposure to explosive chemicals. The portal has been tested on over 2,000 passengers to gauge acceptance and performance.
The paper presents an interactive introduction to SORTIE, a computer model of forest dynamics based on individual-trees. The digital output includes scores of still images and a dozen color animations, allowing readers to visualize the complexity of the model.
A team of archaeologists has discovered a previously unknown mound complex in Louisiana built between 5,000 and 5,400 years ago. The site, Watson Break, consists of 11 mounds that predate other known complexes by 1,900 years and provide clues about the planned engineering behind their construction.
A consortium of scientists has released a new genome sequencing project for the bacterium P. aeruginosa, which causes chronic lung infections in CF patients. The project aims to increase practical knowledge about the pathogen and develop new drugs for treatment.
The Family Solutions Project, which combines first-time juvenile offenders with their parents and siblings, has shown a 21 percent decrease in recidivism rates. The program emphasizes problem-solving skills, decision making, and communication to help young people develop new peer groups.
Researchers are focusing on mediators in Georgia with a four-year project aiming to identify common practices that distinguish skillful from less effective mediation. The study includes 25-page surveys of 1,000-plus mediators and analysis of 40 videotaped mediation sessions.
Researchers discover byssal threads in marine mussels, which feature a mix of collagenous and elastin-like properties. The unique structure of these threads may inspire the development of biomimetic materials with improved stretchiness and toughness.
Gale and doctoral student Steve Kogan used discourse analysis to examine a therapy session conducted by Michael White, a renowned therapist influenced by postmodern thinking. The study found that the therapist successfully managed the talk to make each participant central and accountable, promoting more transparent interactions.
Despite intensive searches, only a few gamma ray burst counterparts have been found, leaving scientists with more questions than answers. The lack of consistent patterns hampers the search, but continued observations with powerful instruments may help clarify the issue.
Researchers design all-carbon backbone that spontaneously folds into compact helical structure without hydrogen bonds. The resulting molecule has a tubular cavity with potential applications in selective chemistry and catalysis.
Scientists described the three-dimensional structure and inner workings of a terpene synthase, a type of protein that synthesizes complex compounds including cholesterol. The findings provide groundwork for understanding how to regulate cholesterol creation in the body.
Researchers at OHSU found that mice without the D4 dopamine receptor exhibit increased locomotor activity when exposed to these substances. The study suggests that the D4 receptor may play a role in modulating drug effects and could be a new target for treating drug abuse.
A new study found that many North Carolina third- and fourth-graders have higher-than-healthy blood pressure and total cholesterol levels, putting them at a higher risk of heart disease or strokes later in life. Additionally, a small but significant number of elementary school children are already smoking.
The report highlights the resurgence of infectious and parasitic diseases, including exotic ones like Ebola and dengue hemorrhagic fever. The authors call for strengthened infection control precautions, rapid diagnostic tests, and improved public education to combat these diseases.
Scientists from over 20 nations will gather to discuss the processes and interactions that determine fish population production. The symposium explores topics such as overfishing, environmental factors, and recruitment dynamics to better understand the global fisheries crisis.