Researchers found that echo-like sounds made by the inner ears of homosexual and bisexual women are weaker than those of heterosexual women, suggesting masculinization of brain structures responsible for sexual preference. The study indicates the potential value of non-invasive windows into brain development and sexual differentiation.
A USC/Norris study reveals how genistein suppresses the mammalian stress response, preventing cancer growth in cell cultures and animal models. This mechanism may provide insight into soy's anti-cancer effects and its potential as an effective agent.
A computer program developed at Ohio State University has enabled the U.S. Navy to design a new system of antennas that reduces radio interference and makes its destroyers less visible to enemy radar. The NEC-BSC program traces the path of electromagnetic waves and allows for the design of lighter materials and improved radar performance.
Scientists have mapped a defective gene responsible for hereditary amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to chromosome 9, bringing closer the isolation of the gene and potential treatment options. The gene is suspected to be linked to similar neurodegenerative disorders, with symptoms appearing in childhood but never being fatal.
Researchers at Columbia University are adapting industrial materials based on sugar to create novel, eco-friendly surfactants for household, medical, and industrial uses. These sugar-based polymers offer better cleansing properties than traditional detergents and can be used in personal care products.
Researchers at the University of Florida successfully prevented high blood pressure and its damaging effects on the heart and kidneys in laboratory animals. The study used gene therapy to decrease the effectiveness of angiotensin II, a hormone that regulates blood pressure, and showed promising results.
The proteasome is a crucial macromolecular machine responsible for eliminating abnormal proteins. It plays a vital role in various biological processes, including the regulation of cell cycle, apoptosis, and immune response. The molecular architecture of the 20S proteasome is conserved from archaea to eukaryotes.
University of Michigan researchers have created the smallest biosensors ever developed, which can detect subtle changes in living cells' biochemistry. These probes, called PEBBLEs, contain dye that glows when exposed to specific ions or molecules, allowing real-time monitoring of cell processes.
A study using fMRI technology reveals impaired brain function in individuals with dyslexia when performing phonetic reading tasks. Dyslexic readers showed reduced activity in the angular gyrus and superior temporal gyrus brain regions.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a fast new method to analyze part designs and locate potential defects that may form in die-cast metal parts. The binary voxel model uses geometry to simulate die casting, producing an image with color-coded areas of concern. This method can identify weak spots in seconds, unlike more...
Recent data from NASA's Galileo spacecraft suggests that Jupiter's moon Europa may have a slushy ocean beneath its icy surface, with evidence including shallow impact craters and gaps in the ice. The findings support the idea that warmth from tidal forces could be keeping parts of the ocean liquid.
Vanderbilt University biologist Carl Johnson's research finds that internal clocks in humans and lower organisms are entrained by both artificial and natural light. The human biological clock speeds up with age, leading to early wake-up times and sleep disruptions, while napping is an innate function.
A new measurement technique developed by researchers at the University of Illinois can identify and measure up to 30 compounds found in a single cell. The method uses nanoliter sampling, capillary electrophoresis, and fluorescence spectroscopy to provide a detailed snapshot of the cell's physiology.
A new study at Ohio State University reveals that three out of four mothers feel their partner's opinion greatly influences their decision to breast-feed. Fathers' negative attitudes about breast-feeding often stem from misconceptions or feelings of being left out, but education can change these attitudes.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a genetic algorithm that optimizes low-thrust trajectories for interplanetary missions, increasing payload capability and flexibility.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found a significant surge in trampoline-related injuries among children, with almost 250,000 treated between 1990 and 1995. The annual number of injuries grew from 29,600 to 58,400 per year during this period, with younger children most often suffering fractures or dislocations.
A recent study by National Jewish Health found that no significant side effects or differences were found between beclomethasone and theophylline in children with asthma. The research suggests that these medications can be used without concern for behavioral problems, but may cause changes in pre-school age children.
The study, led by Ming-Daw Tsai, used nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to determine the 3D structure of the p16 protein. The researchers aim to develop a drug that mimics p16 to treat cancer, which is expected to target more than 70 different types of cancer.
GrantsNet provides an extensive database of fellowships, grants, and funding opportunities for young biomedical scientists. The site offers insights from previous recipients, tips for improving chances of receiving support, and information on various programs.
The 1997 Illinois Statistical Abstract offers detailed information on various aspects of the state, including corn production, women-owned firms, cancer deaths, and per-capita personal income. The book provides a comprehensive overview of Illinois in all its diversity.
A study of 514 Ohio residents found that 54% would support assisted suicide if doctors took an active role, such as giving a lethal injection. This result contradicts the leaders of the assisted suicide movement who advocate for less physician involvement and more patient control.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology have rediscovered brain sections of Auguste D., a 51-year-old woman with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The analysis confirmed the presence of neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques, consistent with today's understanding of the disease.
A National Research Council panel recommends more automation in air-traffic control to enhance safety and efficiency. The panel advises against fully automating tasks that require human judgment, instead focusing on tools that assist controllers with understanding and predicting situations.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine discovered that a virus related to mononucleosis and Kaposi's sarcoma can injure arteries in mice, suggesting a possible link between viruses and vascular diseases. The study found lesions resembling early stages of human vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis.
Researchers discovered a new tumor suppressor gene, BAP1, which regulates BRCA1 activity and is associated with breast and lung cancer. The study reveals that BAP1 mutations can lead to the development of non-small-cell lung cancers.
A twin study found that genetic factors play a significant role in determining alcohol dependence risk in women, contradicting the long-held assumption that environment influences alcoholism more in women. Women with an alcoholic identical twin sister are six times more likely to be alcohol dependent.
Researchers found that a widely used anti-depressant can alter personality traits in healthy individuals, making them more easy-going and cooperative. The study, led by UCSF researchers, suggests that psychopharmaceuticals may affect different aspects of normal personality through distinct neural pathways.
Researchers found that high concentrations of nitric oxide in osteoclasts prevent excessive bone resorption, a process linked to diseases like osteoporosis. This discovery may lead to new strategies for preventing bone loss and potentially treating inflammatory conditions.