Researchers found that senior citizens rated rock music much higher on a loudness scale than younger people. As people age, their tolerance for loudness decreases due to common hearing loss conditions like presbycusis, which distorts certain sounds and makes low frequencies more noticeable.
Scientists at UCSC discovered the origin of the Hawaiian plume, a massive hot rock rising through the Earth and building islands for 80 million years. The research uses seismic waves to analyze the structure beneath Hawaii, revealing a localized transition from horizontal to vertical flow at the core-mantle boundary layer.
A study found that smoking-related illnesses and deaths have risen sharply in the US and France, with increased female smoking causing a steady increase in disease and mortality. The proportion of deaths attributable to cigarette smoking rose from 16.7% to 47.4% among American women.
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists has recognized eight researchers with awards for their outstanding contributions to the field. Sung Wan Kim received the AAPS-Dale E. Wurster Research Award in Pharmaceutics for his work on controlled drug delivery systems, while Vincent H.L. Lee was honored with the Distinguished S...
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery of dinosaur embryos with fossilized skin, providing the first glimpse into the soft tissue covering baby dinosaurs. The ancient eggs were found to contain patches of delicate skin and tiny teeth, shedding light on the reproductive habits of giant plant-eating sauropods.
A new study by Emory researchers found that HIV patients treated with protease inhibitors are more likely to engage in risky sex, including inconsistent condom use. The study also reveals significant differences in condom use among men who had sex with men (MSM) and heterosexual men or women.
A team of researchers announces the discovery of thousands of eggs and dozens of unhatched dinosaur embryos containing fossilized skin, representing a number of scientific firsts. The embryos belong to giant plant-eating dinosaurs called sauropods and are found in the southern hemisphere.
A team of researchers has developed an electronic neural switch that mimics biological neural activity, paving the way for the creation of autonomous robots capable of thinking, learning, and seeking out new environments. The device uses nanoelectronic processors to transmit signals similar to those from nerve cells, enabling it to pro...
A new study by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency reveals that diesel cars emit significantly more nitrogen oxides, particulates, and carcinogenic substances than petrol-driven cars. This trend is counterproductive to achieving environmental goals for cleaner air and reduced acidification and eutrophication.
A recent study found that teenage girls who engaged in HIV-related sexual risk taking and were currently pregnant viewed more television programs depicting violence, women's abuse, or demeaning behavior. This suggests the need for TV networks to decrease violent content and promote healthy sexual behaviors.
A new study shows sertraline safely prevents depression recurrence in severe chronic sufferers. The drug extends remission time and protects against recurrence for patients with disabling psychological and social problems.
The study found that HIV prevalence rates declined by 60-70% from the mid-1980s to the present day, with the majority of participants identifying as gay. However, high-risk groups such as men of low socio-economic status, African-American, and injection drug users continue to have high levels of HIV infection.
Researchers found that rats born by Caesarean section showed marked differences in brain development compared to naturally born controls. They had altered dopamine systems and responses to stress tests. The findings hint at a potential link between Caesarean births and schizophrenia risk.
Researchers have developed a system to detect the formation of gallstones by monitoring the interactions between cholesterol and lecithin in artificial bile. The technique may help identify key enzymes that speed up or slow down gallstone growth, leading to new treatments for cardiovascular ailments and genetic disorders.
Maxygen's DNA shuffling technique has created ultra-efficient proteins and supergenes, including a potent interferon that is 285,000 times more effective than natural versions. The company has also developed superior enzymes with potential applications in industrial processes.
Researchers discovered that cells in the sensory cortex can sprout new axons and form connections with unimpaired areas of the brain, potentially allowing for recovery from stroke or injury. This newfound ability could lead to breakthroughs in treating brain disorders such as spinal cord injuries or stroke.
A comprehensive examination of 100 female statuettes carved in Europe between 30,000 and 20,000 years ago suggests they prioritized the health of mother and child during childbirth. The statuettes depict physical effects of pregnancy and show little evidence of long-term use.
Pat Shipman's book Taking Wing: Archaeopteryx and the Evolution of Bird Flight has received the 1998 Phi Beta Kappa Award in Science. The book explores the enigmatic fossil Archaeopteryx, whose anatomy combines birdlike and reptilian features, and its role in understanding how birds evolved flight.
The Azithromycin and Cardiac Events Study (ACES) investigates the role of Chlamydia pneumoniae in atherosclerosis. Researchers aim to determine if antibiotics can prevent complications of coronary artery disease, enrolling approximately 4,000 volunteers.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered specific compounds in garlic that lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting liver cell production. The study found three water-soluble sulfur-containing compounds that decreased cholesterol production in cultured rat liver cells by 40 to 60 percent, with potential implications for heart health.
A new UNC-CH study found that white children and those from low-income families take up smoking earlier, with 42% of third-graders experimenting with cigarettes by eighth grade. The research highlights the need for early smoking prevention classes and cessation programs in elementary and middle schools.
The Rosalind Russell New Arthritis Treatment Program at UCSF is testing innovative therapies targeting specific cells that promote inflammation and joint damage. Current clinical trials focus on rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, with promising results expected to lead to nationwide approval.
Scientists have uncovered a genetic cause for urinary tract disorders, linking GATA-2 protein to proper genitourinary tract development. The finding paves the way for diagnostic and treatment strategies for bladder and kidney disorders in newborns.
Researchers successfully revived bacteria extracted from ancient bees preserved in amber, opening up new possibilities for pharmaceuticals and industrial applications. Ancient plant specimens are also being studied to understand genetic evolution and identify potential biocontrol uses.
A study by Penn State researchers found that microwaving or roasting garlic can destroy its anti-cancer activity, unless the herb is chopped or crushed first. However, a 10-minute standing period allows an enzyme to react with chemicals, producing allyl sulfur compounds that retain anti-cancer properties.
A study found that IL-2 plus HAART treatment reduced the number of resting CD4+ T cells harboring HIV, making it harder for the virus to replicate. Researchers detected no replication-competent HIV in peripheral blood samples from patients treated with IL-2 plus HAART.
Despite long-standing guidelines recommending antibiotic prophylaxis for dental patients with cardiac valvular problems, a new study finds no association between dental procedures and the onset of endocarditis. The researchers suggest reconsidering current policies due to low incidence and potential risks associated with antibiotics.
A study found that inhaled zanamivir significantly reduces the time to recover from influenza symptoms by up to one-third and complications by 71% in high-risk patients. It also showed faster return to normal activities and better health status scores compared to placebo.
A five-year study aims to define long-term issues and positive growth in bone marrow transplant survivors, while evaluating factors that impact their survival and quality of life. Researchers will assess physical and psychological health, neuropsychological changes, and menopausal symptoms in over 200 participants.
A clinical trial testing Azithromycin's effectiveness in preventing recurrent heart attacks found a promising link between the antibiotic and reduced inflammation. Researchers aim to determine if treating patients with Azithromycin for five days after an initial heart attack can prevent future heart attacks.
Researchers found that polyunsaturated fat in vegetable oil may lead to less hardening of arteries than monounsaturated fat in olive oil. The grant renewal supports studies on the effects of dietary fat type on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels and coronary artery disease.
A new species of spinosaurid dinosaur, Suchomimus tenerensis, is discovered in the Ténéré Desert with a long, narrow, crocodile-like skull. The fossil remains suggest that this predator had curved claws like giant meathooks and was about 11 meters long.
A team of scientists has discovered a young and previously unknown supernova remnant located just 700 light years away from the Vela supernova remnant. The remnant is exceptionally close to Earth, with an age of at most 1500 years, making it the nearest supernova remnant to have occurred during recent human history.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study reveals foreign-trained doctors are crucial in addressing rural physician shortages. States like Florida, West Virginia, North Dakota, and Illinois have the highest rate of international medical graduates practicing in rural areas, often in exchange for staying in the US.
Researchers at Brandeis University have induced a form of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in mice, allowing them to study its molecular mechanisms and potential treatments. The breakthrough could lead to the development of new therapies for CML, which affects one-fifth of all leukemia patients.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill link severe premenstrual syndrome to childhood trauma, finding 50-60% of women with PMDD have histories of abuse. The study also reveals physiological abnormalities in the stress response system of women with PMDD.
Researchers have discovered plant glutamate receptors, which work similarly to human receptors in the brain. This finding suggests that plants possess a signaling system for neurotransmitters, enabling potential use as a model system to study neurological functions.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University and Bell Labs have found clues that subvert the natural law of thermal expansion, suggesting the possibility of creating composite materials that actually shrink under heat. This discovery could lead to significant advancements in various fields, including computing and telecommunications.
Purdue researchers successfully restored electrical nerve impulses in severed spinal cords by applying a non-toxic polymer, PEG. The technique, called fusion technology, repairs damaged nerve cells and enables some impulses to reach the other end of the cord in up to 58% of cases.
The Carnegie/Brookhaven team successfully directed interconversions of enzymes that modify plant fatty acids, revealing the chemical mechanisms responsible for their diversity. They achieved this through making as few as six amino acid changes, paving the way for the creation of novel synthetic enzymes.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory and Carnegie Institution successfully changed a plant enzyme's function by tweaking its structure, advancing prospects for 'designer' plants and novel oils. The breakthrough sheds light on how plant enzymes evolved to perform different functions.
Researchers found that invasive non-native plants compete with native species for regeneration opportunities, inhibiting native tree seedlings and juveniles. Invasive species exhibit similar ecological roles as natives, posing a threat to conservation efforts.
Researchers found a SEX-1 hormone receptor signal in C. elegans that helps determine sex by counting X chromosomes, similar to the human Dax1 gene.
Using nebulizers to deliver glucocorticoid medication is effective in treating asthma in children, but long-term use can suppress growth, recommends Dr. Stanley J. Szefler of National Jewish Health. A new study suggests caution when prescribing glucocorticoids for children under 5 years old.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered the three-dimensional structure of a protein that helps build new blood vessels, feeding cancerous tumors. This understanding may lead to more effective anti-cancer drugs with fewer side effects.
Bruce Marsh's groundbreaking discovery in Antarctica reveals a network of interconnected vertical columns with crystalline mush, overturning a long-held concept. This new understanding is being carefully laid out methodically and precisely, promising to reshape the discipline of magmatism.
Yale researchers develop a hypothesis linking rock metamorphism and earthquake generation. They show that rapid release of water from rocks within fault zones can lead to high internal fluid pressures, decreased rock strength, and induced rock failure, potentially triggering repeated earthquakes.
Protein folding research is undergoing explosive growth, revealing secrets of spontaneous self-assembly process, according to an editorial by Jay Winkler and Harry Gray. The study focuses on chemical kinetics and includes real-time observations, advancing efforts to design new drugs and decode genetic information.
A team of scientists found that a single gene with two vital functions can lead to missing roles, highlighting the complexity of mammalian fetal development. GATA-2 expression was previously thought to only control blood cell formation but is now known to have additional roles in the genitourinary system.
Researchers used virtual reality to visualize the Earth's electromagnetic tail, a challenging problem for astrophysicists. They discovered that charged particles follow a moebius strip path, which they confirmed using 3D imaging equipment.
Researchers have discovered a protein, gephyrin, crucial for central nervous system synapse development and molybdenum utilization. The absence of this protein leads to symptoms similar to human diseases, including stiff baby syndrome and molybdenum cofactor deficiency.
Researchers found that regular multi-vitamin use and long-term hormone replacement therapy can lower homocysteine levels in the blood, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study tracked 353 men and women with varying levels of homocysteine, revealing significant differences in levels among participants.
Emory University researchers suggest that high estradiol levels increase MPO, which oxidizes LDL and clears it via the liver. This mechanism may explain estradiol's protective effects on cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have developed a novel solid-state metal sensor that can accurately measure the acidity of chemical solutions, including body fluids. The electrode may help predict cardiac muscle ischemia and offer advance warning for potential heart attacks.
Researchers propose that an inactive enzyme may contribute to memory impairment in Alzheimer's patients. A transgenic mouse study found impaired memory in animals lacking the enzyme MMP-9, supporting the idea that its inactivity plays a role in the disease.
A study of 22,454 patients found that most deaths occurred in the first two hospital days, suggesting that extended stays may not provide additional benefits. Hospitals could optimize patient care by providing necessary procedures within three days without compromising quality.
Researchers found genes encoding for glutamate receptors in plants, indicating a common cell-to-cell communication system between plants and animals. This discovery may explain why certain plants produce neuroactive compounds that activate human brain receptors.
A recent study by the American Heart Association found that women with heart disease are more likely to experience chest pain during mental stress. The study tested the effects of psychological stress on ischemic heart disease and found that heart rates increased twice as much among participants who reported chest pain.
BioStratum's gene-attenuated virus vaccines protect macaque monkeys against HIV-1-based viruses. The study demonstrates the efficacy of two vaccines in preventing AIDS development in 11 out of 12 monkeys.
Researchers found that dissolved humic material can bind radionuclides, speeding contaminant migration. This process has significant implications for existing and future waste facilities, as low levels of humics in groundwater can facilitate transport.