Researchers have found that tiny air pollutant particles can penetrate deeper into the lungs of healthy adults, potentially threatening their health. The study suggests that these particles can move up to two times faster through the airways than previously assumed, with implications for public health and environmental regulations.
Researchers successfully eliminated an invasive South African worm that was causing deformed shells and stunted growth in California's abalone. By removing susceptible snails and using the 'epidemic threshold of transmission theory,' they were able to break the parasite's cycle, offering a new glimmer of hope for conservation efforts.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a new propulsion system called M2P2 that could potentially increase spacecraft speeds by up to 10 times, surpassing Voyager I's distance from Earth. The system uses a plasma chamber and electromagnetic field to harness the solar wind for propulsion.
Researchers have constructed the first complete physical map of an M. grisea chromosome, providing a crucial step towards understanding and combating the devastating effects of the rice blast fungus on global food supplies.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a mathematical method that may speed the emergence of hard machining, which could make ultrahard metal parts like bearings and jet engine components more reliable and long-lasting. The new method promises to reduce waste, eliminate polluting oils, and minimize thermal damage.
Researchers found exposure to certain environmental factors that affect the immune system can decrease a person's risk of developing non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Factors associated with increased risk include a history of splenectomy, gonorrhea, and polio, while decreased risks were linked to allergies, bee stings, and certain medications.
A study by Northwestern University researchers finds that linezolid is highly effective against a range of gram-positive bacteria, including those resistant to vancomycin and oxacillin. The antibiotic showed potent activity against all isolates tested, making it a promising new treatment option for patients with drug-resistant infections.
UCSF researchers discovered that pain elicits analgesia via the brain's reward pathway, releasing opioids and dopamine. This finding provides a new understanding of pain relief and its connection to addiction.
Research highlights the importance of sleep in managing childhood chronic pain, including its effects on physical health and mental well-being. Behavioral treatments such as relaxation techniques and distraction methods can also help improve children's sleep and reduce pain symptoms.
A new study of over 300,000 people found that obesity significantly increases the risk of premature death by 5.9 and 6.4 years for men and women aged 40-50, respectively. Optimal weight remains the same across different age groups, with excess weight artificially adding years to real age.
Newborn infants who experience painful and stressful treatments exhibit long-term effects on their pain perception and stress response. These effects can be permanent, altering the infant's physiological and behavioral reactions to pain.
Researchers use ultrashort laser pulses to activate a critical surface reaction, allowing for the oxidation of CO molecules on transition metal surfaces. This novel approach enables the system to rapidly transfer energy into the oxygen-metal bond, outpacing desorption processes and unlocking new chemical pathways.
A study by UC Davis scientists reveals that two organisms - a fungus and a bacterium - cause blossom blight in strawberries. The fungus Cladosporium cladosporioides renders the fruit unattractive, while the bacterium Xanthomonas fragariae causes occasional fruit loss, mainly of minor economic importance.
A new study reveals that genetic mechanisms controlling the biological clock are also involved in cocaine sensitization in fruit flies. The research provides valuable insights into the development of treatments for cocaine addiction and may lead to discoveries about other physiological processes controlled by so-called 'clock' genes.
Breakthroughs in self-assembly and supermaterials could lead to extraordinary applications such as artificial body parts, ultraresistant coatings, and high-definition television screens. Five experts will share their discoveries that could jump-start new marvels in materials technology.
Researchers have discovered that quantum dots repel each other, which may govern their self-organization and be crucial for controlling dot characteristics. This effect can help form more uniform and orderly arrays of dots, leading to improved lasing frequency and intensity.
Dr. Jack Stocker discusses his new book, Chemistry and Science Fiction, at the American Chemical Society's national meeting. The presentation highlights the relationship between science and its depiction in science fiction, a common theme in works like Star Wars and Star Trek.
The symposium aims to examine the structure of vancomycin and its potential weaknesses. Researchers will discuss various strategies for preventing the spread of antibiotic-resistant strains.
The International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies will explore cutting-edge research in therapeutics, materials, and astrobiology. Over 179 symposia are planned to foster industrial development, improve environments, and enhance the well-being of people from Pacific Rim countries.
A special symposium discusses children's exposure to environmental hazards, including air and food pollution, insecticides, and pesticides. The event highlights the need for better regulation and science-based decision-making to protect children's health.
Researchers have obtained X-ray images of crucial steps in bacterial infection, revealing the structure of pili and adhesins that enable bacteria to cling to tissue. The findings provide new insights into the development of effective antimicrobial strategies and vaccine candidates.
Researchers create device that harnesses thermal fluctuations to separate membrane-associated molecules, providing a novel approach for studying cellular processes. The invention builds upon previous work on Brownian ratchets and utilizes microfabrication techniques to manufacture the device at an affordable cost.
Researchers discovered that neighboring RAG1 and RAG2 genes are controlled by a single genetic control signal, explaining their long-lived partnership in the immune system. This finding has implications for understanding gene evolution and regulation.
Researchers found that the Rpm1 resistance gene in Arabidopsis is approximately 9.8 million years old, with minimal changes over time, contradicting the 'arms race' theory. The study suggests an alternative 'trench warfare' model, where cycles of disease epidemics maintain stable forms of resistance and susceptibility genes.
The article explains that 'hard' NP-complete problems are difficult due to discontinuous phase transitions, making them impractical to solve even with moderate-sized inputs. The research suggests exploiting certain properties of these abrupt transitions to make the problems easier by nailing down critical variables.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine discovered that anti-diabetic agents can significantly reduce symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease in mice. The study suggests that these compounds may be an effective treatment for humans with ulcerative colitis, a debilitating disorder affecting millions worldwide.
Electronic theses and dissertations are gaining popularity worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of downloads from around 10,000 sites. The Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations aims to promote education and research through digital libraries and preservation programs.
Researchers will examine strategies for persuading people to adopt healthier lifestyles, including better diets, exercise, and regular screening. The project aims to reduce the risk of colon cancer and save lives.
The study found that African-American and white patients rated their same-race physician visits as more participatory, while patients of female physicians also reported higher levels of involvement. Better health outcomes can be achieved through increased minority physicians and cross-cultural communication training.
Research suggests that herbivores prefer northern salt marsh plants over tropical ones, with a striking trend of consuming greater quantities of northern plants regardless of species or time of year. The reasons for this preference are unclear but may be linked to physical and chemical defenses.
The NIH is evaluating seven widely used plasticizers for their potential reproductive and developmental effects. A panel of scientific experts will meet to assess the chemicals' impact on human health.
The Williams College research team observed a two-and-a-half-minute period of totality in a clear sky, collecting fabulous scientific data that will keep researchers busy for years. The experiments focused on understanding the corona's temperature and magnetic field, which can reach temperatures of up to four million degrees Celsius.
Bioterrorism poses a significant threat to US agriculture, with pathogens like soybean rust capable of devastating yields and contaminating the food supply. Experts are working to identify the most-threatening pathogens and develop strategies for prevention and response.
The biotrickling filter technology uses naturally occurring microorganisms to metabolize air pollutants into harmless byproducts. It has been successfully tested at the Naval Air Station-North Island in San Diego, reducing HAP emissions from aircraft painting operations by up to 95%.
Researchers found that resistant mice have higher levels of antioxidant enzymes, which help protect against pancreatic beta-cell destruction. The study suggests a single gene may be responsible for the genetic resistance, and identifying it could lead to therapies to boost natural defenses against diabetes.
Despite having only a dozen mammary glands, naked mole-rat mothers produce up to 28 pups per litter and share nursing duties among the young. The colony's cooperative society allows for sufficient milk supply, eliminating competition among females.
A University of Michigan study found that a low sense of belonging is a stronger predictor of major depression than other factors. The research analyzed data from 31 clients with depression and 379 community college students, concluding that feeling connected to others is crucial in overcoming depression.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new way to measure slippage deep within the Earth using tickers, groups of identically repeating tiny earthquakes. By analyzing the timing and intervals between these quakes, scientists can track changes in fault strain associated with larger earthquakes.
The Alliance Chautauqua at Boston University brings together researchers, artists, and visitors to explore virtual labs and interact in real-time. The event showcases emerging technologies that facilitate remote collaborative work environments.
Long-term societal changes, particularly the aging baby boomer generation, contributed to a significant decline in serious crimes during the Clinton presidency. The strong economy and increased community-based crime prevention initiatives also played a crucial role in reducing crime rates.
The Initiative for Design of Bio-Inspired Materials receives a $2-million grant to explore new physical materials based on biological templates. Researchers aim to develop functional materials and control biological processes using advanced techniques.
A new report from the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) states that cholesterol lowering in elderly Americans can significantly reduce heart disease and stroke risk. The NCEP recommends lowering cholesterol through a healthy diet, exercise, and weight management.
The Office of Naval Research is testing a new weather radar system that delivers potentially superior at-sea weather information. The system, which uses the Navy's SPY-1 phased array radar, will provide direct weather feedback and input to tactical weather forecasts.
Researchers will investigate whether azithromycin reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes in people with documented heart disease. A total of 4,000 volunteers will be recruited nationally to participate in the Azithromycin and Coronary Event Study.
A Cornell University study found that senior volunteers enjoy significantly higher levels of psychological and physical well-being than non-volunteers. The research suggests that volunteering provides retirees with social connections, routines, and a sense of purpose, leading to improved overall well-being.
A recent study found that U.S. math students in smaller classes (6-18 students) outperform those in larger classes, but the effect size is marginal and unclear. This contradicts findings in other countries where class size has no impact on math scores.
Scientists from NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center will launch a weather balloon equipped with a digital camera to broadcast web images of the Perseid Meteor Shower. The camera will provide a clearer view of the meteor shower and capture particles from the stratosphere during the event.
A small pilot study found that nine of 13 patients reported long-term decreased binge eating episodes, with four ending uncontrolled consumption completely. Topiramate, approved for epilepsy, shows promise in treating binge eating disorder with minimal side effects.
A decline in burglary rates since 1980 is attributed to a shift towards drug trafficking and various forms of non-index crimes. Researchers suggest that the abundance of stolen goods has reduced demand, making burglary less lucrative, while improvements in security measures have also deterred potential burglars.
The Interstitial Cystitis Clinical Trials Group is conducting a clinical trial using pentosan polysulfate sodium (ElmironR) and hydroxyzine hydrochloride (AtaraxR) to treat IC. The trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these oral drugs in relieving symptoms in patients with IC.
Temple University physicist Zameer Hasan is working to increase the storage capacity of compact discs by using lasers to distinguish between different colors, allowing for a billion-fold increase in data storage. His research focuses on creating materials that can withstand high temperatures and improve the speed of laser reading.
Researchers developed a new imaging technique to identify abnormal blood vessels in the brain, improving diagnosis and treatment of related conditions. The 'high resolution BOLD venography' method revealed detailed information on blood vessel malformations in nine out of ten patients.
Penn State researchers found that working outside school affects not only U.S. children but also children worldwide, leading to negative effects on math and science achievement. Light work such as babysitting also has detrimental effects on academic progress.
A Penn State study reveals that unmarried mothers, particularly young and African American women, predominantly live with their parents before and after childbirth. The data indicates that co-residence with parents remains the most important living arrangement for first-time, never-married mothers.
Research reveals psychological uncertainty about pregnancy is a major barrier, rather than immigrant status, for Puerto Rican women seeking adequate prenatal care. Despite being U.S. citizens, some women report inadequate care due to unwanted pregnancies or lack of awareness.
Sociologists analyzed daily rituals and activities to understand the mechanisms of biculturalism in Chinese Americans. They found that both older and newer generations retain their cultural heritage through practices like family gatherings, language classes, and cultural events.
Research by Dr. Daniel B. Lee finds that elite colleges transmit cultural advantages from one generation to the next, including social skills and valuable networks. These advantages can lead to increased chances of joining the highest social stratum after graduation.
Scientists at Rockefeller University have found that persistent activation of Stat3 protein can cause normal cells to behave like cancer cells. This discovery presents a promising new target in the fight against cancer and suggests that drugs inhibiting Stat3 activation may be effective.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center created mice with narcolepsy by removing the neuropeptide orexin. The mice exhibited rapid eye movement (REM) sleep at the beginning of a sleep period, unlike normal mice, indicating a potential link to treatments for the disorder.
Researchers found that children gave better information during video interviews than face-to-face interactions, with reduced incorrect responses and improved cooperation. The use of video links also led to longer smiles and more frequent smiling among the children, indicating higher levels of comfort and relaxation.