Researchers have identified three compounds that can stimulate new bone growth in animals, including synthetic chemicals and a natural product. These small molecule compounds are relatively inexpensive, stable, and can be easily modified or formulated, potentially leading to the first osteoporosis treatment to stimulate new bone growth.
A systematic bird survey of the Phoenix metropolitan area has been ongoing since 1998, with over 150 species sighted. The database is a valuable resource for scientists studying urban landscape structure and its impact on avian populations.
Researchers found that psychological stress increases levels of IL-6, a cytokine linked to immune system response, making the body more susceptible to developing infection and symptoms of respiratory illness.
The American Chemical Society (ACS) has introduced ASAP Alerts, a new online service that sends e-mail notifications of newly available Articles ASAP from each of its 27 Web editions of journals. Subscribers and non-subscribers can sign up for daily or weekly notifications, with access to full-text articles within minutes.
A study found that breast cancer patients' top concerns after surgery are mortality, pain, and financial burdens, not previously thought to be the primary worries. The survey involved 223 women from diverse ethnic backgrounds and highlighted the importance of addressing these issues in counseling.
A recent study found that excessively frequent breast self-examinations may reduce detection efficacy and increase false-positive findings. Women with a family history of breast cancer who examine themselves daily or weekly showed the highest levels of general anxiety.
Researchers at Stanford University have invented a quantum electron pump, a device that operates according to the laws of quantum physics. The pump uses slight changes in shape created by electrostatic forces to push electrons through it, allowing for the movement of electrons without relying on voltage differences.
A recent study published in Addictive Behaviors found that women smoking menthol cigarettes inhale more deeply, resulting in higher nicotine exposure. The study also showed that these smokers tend to take their first cigarette earlier in the day, increasing their nicotine dependence.
Research at Ohio State University found that a low-calorie diet slowed tumor growth in rats and mice with prostate cancer. The study suggested that maintaining proper energy balance may inhibit prostate cancer progression.
Researchers identified preferential transmission of alleles at the Dopamine transporter gene (DAT1), Dopamine-b-hydroxylase (DBH), and Dopamine D5 receptor (DRD5) in affected children. The findings suggest a possible genetic contribution to the disorder, with stronger transmission of associated alleles in familial cases.
Researchers at UC Davis and MIT propose a new model of Earth's mantle as two layers, reconciling conflicting evidence from seismologists and geochemists. The new model suggests that tectonic plates encounter a geological barrier in the lower mantle, preventing them from mixing with deep-mantle material.
Researchers at NIST have demonstrated that three atom waves can be mixed together to produce a fourth matter wave, similar to combining optical laser beams. This breakthrough opens a new field of non-linear atom optics, which may lead to applications in amplifying matter waves and exploring quantum behavior.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new way to study the chemistry of life using tiny, cell-sized containers called vesicles. These vesicles allow for the creation of minuscule chemical reactions that can mimic the conditions found inside living cells.
A team of scientists has determined that Acoela flatworms, previously thought to be part of a younger group, are actually the oldest living ancestors to all 'bilateral' animals. This finding implies that bilateral organisms began making their debut on Earth earlier than previously thought.
The MIT researchers' new model explains minute differences in magma composition by shifting densities due to iron and silicon, offset by soaring temperatures. This resolves the long-standing debate on convection in the Earth's mantle, providing a new framework for further investigations.
Scientists have discovered the molecular structure of ZAG, a protein linked to severe weight loss in cancer patients. The discovery provides crucial insights into how ZAG promotes fat breakdown, paving the way for potential treatments for clinical obesity and related conditions.
A new type of molecular cue, Slit, has been discovered that repels growing neurons and triggers them to sprout new connections in the developing nervous system. The discovery opens a promising new pathway to understanding how the brain and nervous system wires itself.
Two studies presented at the American Academy of Dermatology meeting suggest that primary care doctors often refer patients with skin problems to dermatologists, wasting time and resources. Dermatologists diagnose skin diseases more quickly than other doctors, saving money for both patients and healthcare systems.
Scientists at DuPont and the University of Delaware have created inexpensive biosensors that rapidly detect key toxins in poultry feed and environmental contaminants. The researchers used genetically engineered bacteria to create a pre-screening method for identifying potential contaminants, including aflatoxin B1.
Researchers found that patients with severe asthma who use intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in conjunction with steroids have fewer hospitalizations for asthma attacks than those using only steroids. IVIG also reduces lung inflammation and increases steroid sensitivity, making it an effective treatment option for people with asthma.
Patients with atrial septal defects can benefit from surgical closure earlier in life to prevent future symptoms, according to researchers. The study found that surgery between ages 16 and 80 can restore normal blood circulation and prevent arrhythmia.
Dr. Jeanne Sauber will present a lecture on the earthquake hazard in Alaska, studying subduction from space, at the National Science Teachers Association convention in Boston. She will discuss direct measurements of subduction using space-based data and its implications for Alaskan plate movement.
Dr. Alex Sherriffs, a UCSF-Fresno Medical Education Program faculty member, has been recognized with the 1999 Award for Educational Excellence from the California Academy of Family Physicians Foundation. He is praised for his commitment to education and his ability to provide excellent mentorship to medical students.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that intensive hog operations are disproportionately located in poor and non-white communities across North Carolina. The research, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences' Environmental Justice Program, analyzed data from 1998 and 1990 to show that...
A study by Dr. Jane Leserman found that women with a history of sexual and physical abuse are more likely to have poor health during pregnancy and after childbirth, including higher levels of pain and depressive symptoms. The study suggests that trauma can have a long-lasting effect on a person's physiology and health.
A new study by Purdue University researchers reveals that snowpacks not only absorb chemicals but also produce them in the Arctic atmosphere. The findings challenge previous assumptions about how atmospheric gases are processed and may require a re-evaluation of data from ice core studies.
A new ventilator treatment has been shown to significantly reduce mortality among victims of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) by 25%. The treatment involves providing smaller breaths of oxygen-rich air, which may protect the lung from injury. This life-saving breakthrough could save thousands of lives annually.
Researchers have created self-assembling nanospheres that can control the release of drugs and have superior characteristics to traditional fillers. These durable silica spheres range in size from 2-50 nanometers and can absorb organic and inorganic substances, making them useful for various applications.
The Home Energy Saver Internet site computes residential energy savings possibilities for consumers by analyzing a home's energy use and identifying tailored improvements. The site provides personalized recommendations, linking users to hundreds of practical resources for energy-efficient products, service providers, and online materials.
A Johns Hopkins University engineer has developed a microchip-based robotic vision system that enables toy cars to follow lines while avoiding obstacles. The technology could also be used in medical systems, manufacturing plants, and surveillance systems.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory are exploring quantum-based phenomena to enhance computer microchips and other electronic devices. They aim to develop tiny, efficient semiconductors using quantum dots, which could lead to quantum computing and improved light-emitting applications.
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the need for concerted action to reduce tobacco use among children. Tobacco control is a cultural struggle against tobacco companies targeting adolescents. Governments must take decisive actions to cut tobacco consumption, while supporting farmers and workers in the tobacco industry.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that more than two-thirds of animated feature films produced for children over the past 60 years display tobacco or alcohol use. The study examined nearly all G-rated animated films released between 1937 and 1997, including popular titles such as Disney and Warner Brothers films.
The MIT Touch Lab researches the hand's intricate mechanisms, aiming to enhance hand impairments diagnosis and virtual reality experiences. Advanced technologies, such as ultrasound microscopes and haptic interfaces, are being developed to study human perception and touch.
A Northwestern University study found that many older women have undiagnosed and untreated hearing loss, which can lead to depression and emotional problems. The researchers suggest that public policy should include hearing care as part of all health maintenance plans.
At the 95th annual meeting of the Association of American Geographers, researchers will present papers on declassified satellite data revealing secret technological breakthroughs during the Cold War. Additionally, sound maps for visually-impaired individuals and fire risk mapping techniques using satellite images to predict forest fire...
A new study by Peter D. Jacobson examines the role of nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) in primary care, finding that their scope of practice and autonomy increase with larger managed care populations. While most physicians view NPs and PAs as peers, some express concerns about quality of care and referrals.
Researchers found that estrogen activates neurotransmitter receptors, increasing neuronal activity and long-term potentiation, a process linked to memory and cognitive function. The study suggests estrogen may play a key role in delaying the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found that high-dose methadone (80-100mg) resulted in a sharper reduction in illicit opioid use compared to moderate doses (40-50mg), with some patients requiring even higher doses for optimal benefit. The study, conducted at Johns Hopkins Medicine, underscores the need for more consistent treatment dosages nationwide.
The Center for Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS Center) brings together top researchers to develop new applications and advance fundamental research in ion mobility spectrometry. The center aims to expand the technology's utility into new areas, improving detection of hard-to-detect molecules like pesticides and environmental contaminants.
A new study at the University of North Carolina links increased levels of oxytocin to lower blood pressure among mothers who nurse their babies. Mothers with higher oxytocin levels had lower blood pressure before and after discussing recent life problems, suggesting that breastfeeding may help reduce stress.
The Geographic Information System Interactive Map Server allows users to view maps of major geographic features, including location of earthquake faults and technical data. The site draws on databases created at Cornell over the past six years, making geological data accessible to researchers and educators worldwide.
A new technique using self-organizing maps can quickly analyze the activities of thousands of genes, grouping similar genes together. This allows researchers to identify patterns in gene expression and potentially discover unknown genes, leading to new insights into human health and disease.
A new study finds that proposed solutions to out-of-field teaching may cause more harm than good, and the problem persists due to a lack of prestige and pay for teachers. The study suggests that a fundamental shift in how the teaching profession is perceived in the US is needed to address the issue.
Rocky Kolb will discuss the first second in the life of the universe, describing a hot primordial soup of 'elementary' particles. He explores how this soup has cooled and condensed into the cosmic structure we see today. Kolb's work is praised for its clarity and insight.
Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds exhibit greater cardiovascular responses to stress, leading to larger left ventricles and increased heart disease risk. The study found differing pathways for African American and white children and adolescents, highlighting the need for tailored interventions.
Researchers have successfully tested a new gene therapy approach to block certain pain responses in mice. The treatment uses a herpes virus containing a gene that triggers production of a pain-blocking protein, providing long-term potential for pain relief.
German scientists have developed a laser that emits a continuous beam of matter waves, allowing for unprecedented control over atomic motion. The Munich atom laser opens new prospects in science and technology, including the precise deposition of atoms on surfaces and the creation of tiny nanostructures.
Researchers discovered that lysozyme, a protein abundant in tears, is also present in the urine of pregnant women and acts as a potent anti-HIV agent. Additionally, ribonucleases were identified in the urine, breaking apart viral RNA and potentially inhibiting HIV replication.
Duke University researchers found that angiostatin works by depleting the chemical energy needed for blood vessel cells to grow. This discovery offers a novel insight into the body's use of ATPsynthase as a power pack and suggests a new route to developing drugs to block tumor growth.
Researchers at UCSF discovered a molecular trigger that initiates uncontrolled mucus production, affecting millions worldwide. They suggest targeting this messenger to develop strategies to control mucus production and prevent airway blockage.
More than 25 topics requested by Bay Area women will be discussed at the symposium, including women's sexual health, herbal remedies, and menopause. Teen Health 2000 will cover topics such as body image, advocacy, race, contraception, and STDs.
A recent study found that women who use oral contraceptives and smoke have significantly greater cardiovascular reactivity to stress, as well as increased lipid and fibrinogen levels. This can lead to a higher risk of heart disease.
A University of Colorado at Boulder study reveals that Ectatomma ruidum ants employ chemical camouflage to infiltrate neighboring nests and steal food, relying on vigilance of guard ants to eject intruders. The unique strategy allows the peaceful species to prosper despite its inability to kill individual members.
The six-month study demonstrated significant improvement in symptoms and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, establishing a foundation for FDA approval of ENBREL. The results support the use of etanercept as an additional treatment option for these patients.
Researchers discovered a deep-sea octopus that produces light in its suckers, challenging the understanding of bioluminescence among cephalopods. The study sheds new light on evolutionary transition and the potential role of light organs in attracting prey.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will launch a management academy to boost training for public health professionals in four states. The academy aims to improve how health departments nationwide serve citizens, addressing concerns discussed for decades.
The NIA-funded Memory Impairment Study aims to test two drugs to slow or stop the conversion from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Participants will be randomly assigned to receive placebo, vitamin E, or donepezil, and the study will be conducted at 65-80 medical research institutions in the US and Canada.
Researchers found that employed husbands and wives should each do less than half of the household chores to keep their personal distress levels at a minimum. A more equitable division of household work could reduce women's distress without increasing men's distress levels.
Weizmann Institute scientists develop a heat-shock protein-based vaccine that triggers high-performance antibodies against bacterial infections, providing nearly complete protection against lethal doses. The new approach may lead to improved vaccines for various diseases and potentially cancer therapy.