The Virginia Tech researchers have identified 30 unique extracts with activity and isolated 20 chemical compounds with bioactivity. The ethnobotanical approach has shown a slight benefit, yielding 3.8% of plants that were bioactive in yeast assays compared to 2.8% of randomly collected plants.
A new theory suggests that small organic molecules may assemble into self-replicating biomolecules on the surfaces of silica-rich minerals, providing a potential mechanism for life's origin. Geophysicist Joseph V. Smith proposes that organophilic zeolites could have concentrated and protected these organic compounds from destruction.
Biomass burning emissions from Africa and Australia travel long distances to reach remote islands in the South Pacific, contaminating the air with harmful tropospheric ozone levels. This phenomenon poses a significant atmospheric problem for the 21st century, affecting breathing and plant growth.
Studies show a significant increase in PAHs in reservoirs and river sediments in suburban areas of major cities, contradicting efforts to reduce pollution. Urbanization is linked to the accumulation of these carcinogenic compounds, which are typically not detectable in water samples.
The UPMC Image Engine Project combines clinical images with medical records to improve patient care. The system allows clinicians to download and view full-size images for diagnosis and treatment, while maintaining patient confidentiality.
The American Society of Gene Therapy will hold its inaugural annual meeting from May 28 through May 31 in Seattle, featuring sessions on gene therapy vectors and various diseases. Over 1,500 scientists are expected to attend, with a focus on education and collaboration.
Researchers have designed a machine that can produce buckyballs at lower costs and higher rates, making them more accessible for commercial use. The technology could enable the development of fullerenes-based medical applications, such as antioxidants for treating diseases like ALS.
Researchers have made rapid progress on a new class of anti-cancer drugs that target the Ras protein activation pathway, which causes up to 90% of pancreatic cancers. Laboratory studies have shown effective inhibition of cancer cells using FTase inhibitors.
Researchers at Penn State aim to protect crops by targeting insect taste buds, which are a direct connection between the central nervous system and the outside. By identifying chemicals that stimulate or suppress feeding behavior, scientists hope to develop more effective control methods for corn rootworm pests.
USC chemists have discovered a new generation of superacids that can break down hydrocarbons into positively charged carbocations. The breakthrough, led by Professor Christopher A. Reed, has potential applications in fuel cell technology and the chemical industry.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are creating new metallic glasses with superior strength, elasticity, and magnetic properties. These materials can be molded into a final shape and exhibit distinct mechanical and magnetic properties due to their random atomic structure.
A team of researchers used radiotracer chemicals to study the dopamine system in older adults, finding that dopamine receptors decrease with age. The findings have implications for understanding Parkinson's disease and cognitive decline, suggesting that enhancing dopamine activity could help slow down these effects.
A new book on composite materials has been published by Virginia Tech professor Michael W. Hyer, focusing on the mechanics aspects of fiber-reinforced composite materials. The book provides a comprehensive approach to understanding the stresses due to applied deformations, loads, and temperature changes.
A new strategy to treat and prevent tumors has been developed by University of Pittsburgh researchers using dendritic cells. The approach effectively prevents tumor development in healthy mice and reduces tumors in 80% of mice with established tumors, significantly prolonging their survival.
A Dartmouth physicist has discovered that applying a small electric voltage across an ice-metal interface can break the bond between ice and metal surfaces, potentially preventing or reducing icing on airplane wings. The effect of the voltage can be reversed to increase ice adhesion, which could improve traction on icy roads.
Using PET scans to track glucose metabolism, researchers can identify malignant tumors and detect early metabolic changes in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's. Serial scans also assess disease progression and therapeutic interventions.
Human growth hormone increases bone size in mice but compromises bone quality, leading to increased brittleness and fracture risk with age. This study highlights the need for caution when prescribing human growth hormone, especially in individuals without specific medical needs.
Researchers have developed a fast new way to compute three-dimensional models of internal organs and anatomical features from noisy medical images. The method, based on partial-differential equations, allows doctors to build accurate models with just a single click inside the region of interest.
The American Chemical Society supports STEM education through various programs, including the Boy Scout Chemistry merit badge. Researchers will present posters showcasing innovative approaches to teaching chemistry to young learners.
Researchers find that competition for resources affects organ growth, leading to changes in traits like wings and horns. This phenomenon resolves a conundrum identified by Charles Darwin, suggesting that genes are not the sole determinant of development.
A new device approved by the US FDA uses ultrasound technology to estimate bone density of the heel, identifying women at risk of developing osteoporosis. The Sahara Clinical Bone Sonometer can be used in offices and could increase access to testing, especially in rural areas.
Researchers successfully delivered and expressed an E1A gene in both diseased and normal human cells using a proprietary non-viral liposomal delivery mechanism. The study showed decreased levels of surrogate tumor markers in three patients with breast and ovarian cancers, indicating potential as a treatment for various types of cancer.
University of Washington researchers successfully use a modified virus to perform novel gene replacement, targeting mutated genes with high accuracy. The new method achieves efficient gene correction, allowing for precise control over the expression of the corrected gene.
BioNumerik's novel chemoprotecting agent BNP7787 appears to completely protect against major toxicities associated with widely used platinum anticancer drugs. The company's Karenitecins demonstrate potent oral antitumor activity and bypass common drug resistance mechanisms.
A team of scientists uncovered how protons move and share in hydrogen bonds under extreme pressure, shedding light on biological processes like enzyme catalysis. This discovery could lead to advancements in materials science and chemistry.
A recent study by Patricia Kramer suggests that early human ancestors like Lucy walked at a slow speed, similar to a leisurely stroll, allowing them to conserve energy. This efficient walking style enabled them to gather food and reproduce without excessive energy expenditure, particularly important for primate females.
Researchers have developed new radiotracer chemicals that can predict how well antiestrogen therapies will treat cancer in individual patients. The technique uses positron emission tomography (PET) and shows promise for improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers found that the d-threo enantiomer, which is 10 times more potent than its chiral counterpart, binds precisely to dopamine targets in the brain. This suggests that using a single enantiomer form may be beneficial for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
A Penn State research team has found that small-scale fires play a crucial role in shaping forest structure. By analyzing aerial photographs from 1941 and 1993, the researchers determined that topography is key to understanding natural variability and restoring diverse fire regimes in Northern California.
John R. Mather, a renowned University of Delaware geographer, has been awarded the Association of American Geographers' Lifetime Career Honor for his exemplary service to the profession and association over his entire career. Mather's contributions in research, climatology, and instruction are highly regarded throughout the profession.
Researchers uncover evidence of complex behaviors, symbolic thinking, and problem-solving among early humans in southern China. Large mammal remains show signs of human intervention, such as burning and cutting marks, suggesting a deliberate process of collection and use.
Historically, colleges were established near trade centers, but today, more than half of four-year universities and two-year colleges are metropolitan institutions. This shift has significant implications for urban economies. The majority of institutions are now located near where people live, reflecting a change in the public's percep...
The article discusses psychiatric genetics research funded by Nazi Germany, raising concerns about the separation of science from the scientist. Dr. Miron Baron examines the history of this research and its implications for contemporary investigators.
A Brown University study found that a personalized approach can increase breast cancer screening rates among women. Women who received tailored information were 10% more likely to get a repeat mammogram than those who received generic advice or no intervention.
Elevated plasma leptin levels in obese individuals may indicate resistance to leptin's appetite-suppressing effects. Additionally, new evidence suggests a link between leptin concentrations and blood glucose changes, potentially connecting obesity and adult-onset diabetes.
A study of 40 newly diagnosed celiac disease patients found that those with total mucosal villous atrophy had lower erythrocyte folate and serum ferritin values, but no significant differences in nutritional status among other groups. After a gluten-free diet, most abnormal biochemical values normalized.
Researchers from UNC Highway Safety Research Center found that only 2.1% of boaters tested showed blood alcohol above 0.08%, with 18% reporting consumption and 14% having elevated levels. The study aims to determine alcohol's role in boating fatalities and injuries.
Children and adolescents with celiac disease have significantly lower lumbar spine and whole-body bone mineral density than healthy peers. A gluten-free diet rapidly increases BMD, leading to complete recovery of bone mineralization, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and treatment.
David V. Rosowsky, a Clemson civil engineering associate professor, has received the Dow Outstanding New Faculty Award for his groundbreaking work in wind engineering research and teaching. He is part of a team that developed methods to make homes better able to withstand high winds, utilizing Clemson's unique wind-load test facility.
Research found large differences in mean plasma leptin concentrations among Nigerian, Jamaican, and US black populations. Women showed higher leptin levels than men at every level of body fat. The study also suggests an exponential response of leptin to increases in body fat stores.
Researchers at Purdue University have identified a genetic link to the aggressive stinging behavior in Africanized honey bees. By mapping genes associated with aggression, they hope to develop markers for selective breeding of gentle bees, which could improve pollination and reduce threats to beekeepers.
A new study led by Duke psychiatrist Dr. Jonathan Davidson found that the anti-depressant drug venlafaxine XR is effective in reducing symptoms of GAD, including feelings of worry and tension. The drug was more effective than a placebo and a commonly used anti-anxiety medication, offering a new treatment option for this chronic disorder.
American children who watch four or more hours of television daily are more likely to be overweight and fatter than those watching fewer hours. Sedentary TV viewing is associated with high-calorie snack foods, fast food commercials, and reduced physical activity.
This year's award winners were recognized for their outstanding contributions to food science and technology, including research on fat replacers, lipid biotechnology, and flavor science. The awards honored IFT members who demonstrated exceptional ability, leadership, and service to the profession.
A 15-year study of 628 AML patients confirms that chromosomal abnormalities can predict treatment success and likelihood of cure. Patients with specific genetic markers tend to have better outcomes, while those without them face poorer survival rates.
A study by Washington University in St. Louis reveals that similar lizard communities have evolved independently on different islands in the Caribbean, converging on island habitats. The research found identical habitat specialists on each island, suggesting a unique response to environmental pressures.
Researchers at UC Davis have successfully assembled a novel calixarene-porphyrin molecule, which shows promise for use in biological and chemical applications. The discovery could enable the development of efficient sensors and filters, including one to detect spoiled seafood.
Researchers found that El Niño years averaged only 49.3% of maximum intensity compared to 48.6% in non-El Niño years. However, this current El Niño may be different and could help solve the mystery behind increasing North Pacific hurricane intensities.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed a novel vaccine that uses RNA and dendritic cells to target cancer cells. The vaccine stimulates an immediate and sustained assault on human cells in test tube experiments, showing promise as a universal cancer vaccine.
A new liquid crystal assay developed at the University of California, Davis, can detect target molecules in test samples using minimal supplies and no electricity. The assay uses a microscopic landscape of hills and valleys to bend light and create colorful patterns, allowing for quick and easy analysis.
A study by Duke University Medical Center found that hostile women experienced significant increases in blood pressure and heart rate when discussing an emotional event, while low-hostile women showed no such response. The research suggests that emotional stress may not be harmful for everyone, but rather poses a risk to those already ...
A recent study found that two out of every three female veterinarians have reported accidental needlestick wounds, with side effects reported in 16.4% of cases. Vaccines were the most commonly injected substances, followed by anesthetics and euthanasia drugs.
A study by Duke University Medical Center found that hostile relationships with family members can increase stress and depression in heart disease patients. Researchers suggest a new approach to managing heart disease, including conflict resolution training to reduce emotional stress.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a technique to help surgeons determine the extent of tumor spread in pancreatic cancer patients. This method uses an antibody labeled with radioactivity to detect cancer cells, potentially improving treatment outcomes and reducing harm from extensive surgery.
A new study reveals that Hispanics are increasingly settling in the heartland and Sun Belt regions of the US, attracted by job growth and economic opportunities. The fastest growth occurred in states such as Georgia, Maryland, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, and Nevada.
A University of Cincinnati computer model is being used to study the most cost-effective plans for species preservation. The model, developed by researchers Jeffrey Camm and Amy Ando, takes into account both species distributions and land values to provide a more flexible and economical approach.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that two simple tests can detect carpal tunnel syndrome with high accuracy. The square-shaped wrist and abductor pollicis brevis (thenar) weakness tests are recommended as part of the examination for CTS, which is often caused by repetitive motion like typing.
A new national study found that young men who switch jobs early in their careers don't suffer from lower wages, and may even earn more than those who stay in the same job. In contrast, women's wage gains are less clear, with some evidence suggesting they may face a 2% penalty for early job stability.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new psychoeducation program that helps families deal with children diagnosed with depression, dysthymic disorder, and bipolar disorder. The program has shown early signs of improvement in parents' understanding of their child's mood disorder and family interactions.
NASA's Global Hydrology and Climate Center provides real-time geostationary satellite data, enabling users to view weather formations, temperature, winds, and precipitation in various regions. The center offers an interactive viewer with low-resolution animations and on-demand image sequences.