A new study found that treating entire communities with oral antibiotic azithromycin effectively controls an infection causing widespread eye disease. The treatment reduces the number of infections by up to 90% compared to topical therapy, offering a promising solution for controlling trachoma in endemic areas.
Researchers found a dual-purpose protein, FucR, that allows Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron to control its nutrient intake by silencing or activating genes involved in fucose metabolism. This communication mechanism may be crucial for maintaining intestinal ecosystem stability and preventing the overgrowth of harmful microbes.
A new study by psychologist Harold D. Fishbein, Ph.D., and sociologist Neal Ritchey, Ph.D., found no significant effects from the attitudes of friends on an adolescent's prejudices or stereotypes. The researchers administered questionnaires to 426 ninth and eleventh graders at two nearly exclusively white Catholic schools.
Four experts will discuss their findings on the chemistry of addictions involving cocaine, alcohol, and PCP at a news briefing. The experts will provide insights into the underlying mechanisms and potential treatments for these addictions.
The partnership will focus on materials science, biotechnology, Earth sciences, propulsion, optics, and other areas that support NASA's mission. The center aims to reduce expenses and maximize scientific return by sharing facilities and ideas.
Researchers found that a single night of disrupted sleep increases levels of interleukin-6, leading to daytime fatigue and decreased well-being. Healthy young men with normal sleep patterns experienced increased IL-6 secretion during the day after missing a night of sleep.
Researchers found that larger sprocket sizes and higher chain tension can significantly increase bicycle drive train efficiency, while lubrication has a minimal impact. The study's results could have implications for other chain-driven devices, including conveyor belts and factory production lines.
The AAAS study recommends using federal funding for research on human stem cells, including embryonic stem cells already isolated in laboratories. However, the derivation of human stem cells should not receive federal funding due to public anxiety surrounding its process.
Thomas Holme, a chemistry professor and TV personality, receives the Helen M. Free Award for Public Outreach from the American Chemical Society for his efforts to increase public awareness of chemistry through TV appearances and local activities. His segments air on WTMJ-TV, reaching an audience of over 200,000 viewers since 1995.
A new study by researchers at the University of Georgia suggests that condom use can lead to closer and more intimate relationships. The study found that insisting on condom use sends a positive message to a partner, leading to greater respect, safety, and less regret after sex. However, the issue is often never discussed due to embarr...
A study found that over 80% of wild rats in the US have HEV antibodies, suggesting they are a natural reservoir for the virus. This raises concerns about the possibility of infected rats transmitting the virus to humans, although experts emphasize there is no evidence of human risk.
Research reveals highest species diversity of planktonic foraminifera in middle latitudes, contrary to traditional model. Sea-surface temperature can accurately estimate zooplankton diversity.
Jeff Wheelwright, a renowned environmental writer, has won the American Chemical Society's James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public. His work aims to ease public fears about chemicals in the environment and promote understanding of chemistry.
A landmark study published in Science found no evidence of Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus (PERV) infection in 160 patients who received living pig tissue transplants. The study, which tested the safety of xenotransplantation, showed that pig tissue can survive in the human body for long periods with no ill effects.
Research finds that ship sulfur emissions contribute to acid rain, damage vegetation, and form clouds over the ocean. The study highlights the importance of addressing this issue for solving part of the global climate change puzzle.
Researchers developed a system that enables users to interact with a computer-controlled map using natural speech and hand gestures. The system recognizes spoken words and gestures, allowing users to locate buildings and parking lots on the Penn State campus.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals that centenarians who undergo surgery have a comparable survival rate to the general population, contrary to popular opinions. The researchers found that older individuals can recover quickly and do well after surgery with advancements in drugs and surgical techniques.
Researchers found that genetic variation significantly impacts an individual's sensitivity to estrogen, challenging traditional laboratory-animal-based safety tests. The study suggests that genetic makeup should be considered when prescribing estrogen and related hormones for medical purposes.
A study found that untreated hypothyroidism in pregnant women is associated with lower IQ scores in their children. Children of mothers treated for the condition showed similar intelligence levels to those born to healthy mothers. Early detection and treatment may mitigate the negative effects.
Scientists have developed a genetically engineered animal model of schizophrenia, displaying behaviors consistent with the disease. The new model targets NMDA receptors, which may lead to improved treatment options and better understanding of the illness.
Scientists at Emory University create transgenic mice with a prairie vole vasopressin receptor gene, showing increased social behavior and adopting gregarious behaviors. The study provides an explanation for the species difference in receptor distribution and its impact on social behavior.
A new species of rabbit with distinctive brown stripes has been identified in the Annamite Mountains of Laos. Genetic analysis reveals a close connection to a critically endangered Sumatran species, suggesting divergence around 8 million years ago.
Researchers have correctly predicted dyslexia in 8-year-olds from brain waves just hours after birth, suggesting earlier detection could reduce reading problems. The study suggests selective damage to nerves in the fetal brain may cause dyslexia and that early intervention could be beneficial.
Researchers at UNC-CH have developed a gene therapy method that targets specific types of cells, avoiding the less effective 'shotgun' approach. The technique successfully corrects genetic defects in primitive stem cells, which can be used to treat inherited blood disorders like hemophilia and non-inherited illnesses such as cancer.
Researchers found an immune molecule that kills damaged cells indirectly by closing receptors to a life-saving protein, shedding new insight on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and stroke. The findings could lead to targeted treatments for brain injuries and diseases involving neurodegeneration.
Researchers are using naturally occurring microbes to clean radioactively contaminated walls and ceilings at a shut down reactor in the UK. The technology removes surface contamination through a microbial decontamination process, significantly reducing waste treatment costs and improving personnel safety.
Researchers at the University of Iowa have identified a complex domino effect that causes cardiomyopathy in limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD). The study suggests that drug therapy targeting vascular smooth muscle could prevent or stabilize cardiomyopathy in some cases of LGMD.
A Harvard Medical School study reveals that physician guidelines for estrogen replacement therapy fail to address women's concerns and needs. Researchers found that patients value healthcare provider opinions, media influences, and friend opinions when making decisions about hormone replacement therapy.
Researchers have identified a structural anomaly in the Taq DNA polymerase enzyme that hampers its performance in DNA sequencing. By modifying this anomaly, scientists created an improved version of the enzyme, which increases sequencing speed and reduces errors.
A recent study found that the majority of nurses in hospitals and nursing homes are ill-prepared to care for the elderly, with many having no formal training in gerontology. The study calls for increased geriatric education in nursing programs to ensure optimal care for older adults, who account for a growing share of healthcare needs.
Andrew Hamilton, an organic chemist at Yale University, is being honored with the American Chemical Society's Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award for his work on designing molecules that can control cell growth in cancer treatment. His research focuses on targeting a protein called Ras, which accounts for over 30% of all cancers.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have identified a potential new approach to treating glaucoma by inhibiting an enzyme that produces excessive nitric oxide, leading to cell damage. The study found that rats with elevated eye pressure lost less than 10% of their retinal ganglion cells when treated with the inhibitor.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is hosting a public forum to gather public comment on stem cell research recommendations. The event will feature a panel discussion with experts from various fields, including science, ethics, and policy.
Researchers from around the world are measuring fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in Atlanta's air to understand its health effects and sources. The study aims to develop better instruments for measuring PM2.5 and its composition, with potential implications for controlling ozone and PM-related pollution.
The American Chemical Society's national meeting will feature discussions on topics such as environmental health risks, antibiotic resistance, and the origin of elements in the solar system. More than 5,600 papers are scheduled for presentation to an expected 12,000 scientists.
Researchers at the University of Washington developed a scale to measure air travel stress, finding that men and women experience it differently. The study suggests that anxiety and anger can trigger stress, but also highlights the importance of coping mechanisms such as relaxation skills and adaptive behavior.
Researchers find limited flow of male genes between subpopulations in India due to historically prevalent marriage system. However, they observe certain trends of haplotype sharing between upper and lower castes, suggesting rare conduits for male genes across social ranks.
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.