Researchers at Harvard Medical School have found that a mysterious protein in a nematode worm plays a pivotal role in cell division and differentiation. The study validates earlier cell culture experiments on viral cancer-causing proteins.
A 65 million-year-old meteorite impact caused massive landslides and subsidence along the Yucatán Peninsula's continental margin. Giant submarine avalanches then swept across the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean, displacing billions of gallons of water.
Researchers have found that a cluster of 60 helium atoms is sufficient to create a superfluid, defying gravity and exhibiting macroscopic properties. This discovery was made possible by the development of new methods to explore superfluidity on a microscopic scale.
Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the effects of gender, age, hormones, and other factors on heart disease. A promising new diagnostic tool, dobutamine stress echocardiography, is being tested for its accuracy in detecting coronary artery dysfunction in women.
Researchers found that when H. pylori attaches to stomach cells with a specific molecule called Leb, it triggers an immune response that can lead to ulcers, inflammation, and increased risk of stomach cancer. The study provides a genetically well-defined model for studying bacterial attachment and its role in disease.
Researchers identify genetic factors contributing to smoking propensity, suggesting a cluster of characteristics linked to biological sensitivity. The study refutes parental wisdom that getting sick after sneaking a cigarette deters future smoking.
Pesticide residues on food raise concerns, but some pesticides can increase safety by reducing naturally occurring toxins. Carl Winter suggests fine-tuning regulations to reflect relative benefits and risks presented by a pesticide.
Researchers found that varying pulse patterns, rather than regular intervals, can increase muscle force and duration in people with paralysis. This breakthrough could lead to improved control and mobility for individuals with severe paralysis, such as those affected by Christopher Reeve's condition.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a unique molecular defect responsible for polycythemia vera, a blood disorder that can be difficult to diagnose. The finding may lead to the development of a definitive test for the condition, which could potentially increase patient lifespan.
University of Delaware professor John F. Rabolt's team created microblock copolymers by combining homopolymers, discovering unexpectedly improved tensile strength and temperature resistance. The technique offers vast possibilities for materials design.
The American Chemical Society presents a new paper linking science education with community service projects, aiming to improve student engagement and retention rates. Researchers found that hands-on scientific activities in the classroom increased students' interest in STEM fields.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found a significant link between GST gene variations and breast cancer risk. The study suggests that testing for these genetic mutations may help prevent breast cancer in women with the variants by advising them to avoid certain environmental cancer risk factors.
Scientists have discovered the oldest known astronomical alignment of megaliths in Egypt's Sahara Desert, dated to around 6,500-6,000 years ago. The Nabta site features a stone circle, tomb-like structures, and five lines of standing and toppled megaliths, which were likely used for ceremonial purposes.
New methods using video cameras, spectral sensing, and satellites enable precise chemical applications targeting individual plants. These strategies optimize pesticide use on smaller scales, reducing risks.
Researchers have developed a new test to measure corrosive free-radical activity in individuals, providing insight into antioxidant effectiveness. The test uses an isoprostane marker, IPF2alpha-I, which can be detected in urine, and has been validated through cross-validation with an older assay.
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.