Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have successfully transplanted discarded thymus tissue into two infants with DiGeorge Syndrome, restoring their immune systems and providing long-term treatment. The children's new gland has provided a normally functioning immune system that requires no long-term drug support.
A team of astronomers has discovered a new molecule, nitrogen sulfide, in comets, which may offer insights into the formation of the early solar system. The compound's presence in comets suggests that it could have originated from the material that formed the planets.
The American Geophysical Union's Fall Meeting features a press field trip on San Francisco Bay, where USGS scientists discuss water resources research. Media representatives can attend scientific sessions, visit the Press Room and Briefing Room, and participate in exclusive events.
Researchers have discovered that spraying milk on cucumbers can effectively kill powdery mildew, a major problem for organic farmers. The solution, which involves mixing one part cow's milk with nine parts water and spraying it on the plants twice a week, has been shown to be faster and more effective than chemical fungicides.
A study of 1050 men and 1098 women in Spain found that 26.2% of men and 28% of women experienced abnormal breathing during sleep, considered a threshold for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is linked to increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and daytime drowsiness.
Children raised by single parents perform just as well in school as those from two-parent families, according to a large study. The key factor determining success is the mother's level of education and coping skills, not the absence of a father.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has been awarded a $42.1 million federal contract to study the effectiveness and safety of new anti-psychotic drugs for treating schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. The five-year study will enroll 1,000 patients with schizophrenia and 400-500 Alzheimer's patients.
A new study by Resources For the Future finds that emissions trading has shifted sulfur dioxide emissions away from populated areas to the Midwest, improving public health and environmental conditions in the Northeast and East. Health-related benefits are estimated at $125 million annually.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that prolonged mental stress increases the levels of atherogenic lipoproteins and decreases the rate at which fats are cleared from the blood after a meal. This can lead to higher lipid levels and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison propose a new approach to understanding ecosystem health by focusing on an organism's ability to withstand environmental stress. The study suggests that competition among species is less important than biodiversity as an insurance policy against unknown environmental fluctuations.
Cornell researchers use the Palomar High Angular Resolution Observer (PHARO) camera to take near-infrared images of Neptune, revealing a massive cloud and numerous smaller clouds. The camera's high spatial resolution allows for detailed analysis of the planet's clouds and atmospheric circulation.
Researchers have developed a new membrane-based system that can separate proteins from impurities in a single step, potentially reducing production costs and increasing efficiency. The technology, known as the 'salt cloud' concept, exploits the natural charge on proteins to improve separation rates.
Researchers found that risedronate significantly reduced the incidence of new spinal fractures by 41% and non-vertebral fractures by 39% among postmenopausal women. After one year, risedronate also showed a 65% reduction in new spinal fractures compared to placebo.
Research reveals high symptoms of depression among mothers caring for inner-city children with chronic conditions. The study suggests therapists and educators can help these mothers cope by acknowledging limitations and modifying unrealistic expectations.
A nationwide study suggests that American adults generally experience fewer economic difficulties as they get older. The study found that 16% of adults under 40 reported frequent bill payments issues, compared to 6% of those 60 and over. Economic hardships peak in the 30s, then decline with age.
A recent report from UC San Francisco reveals a decline in tobacco industry influence in California, with decreasing campaign contributions and revenue. The report finds that Republicans received 81% of tobacco money in the 1997-1998 election cycle, despite Democrats controlling both houses of the Legislature.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered that dimethyl ether (DME) produced from coal-derived syngas has lower carbon monoxide emissions compared to propane or butane. DME also exhibits similar or lower nitric oxide emissions in most cases, making it a viable alternative fuel.
A preliminary study by University of Florida researchers suggests that magnetic stimulation may be a safe and revolutionary treatment for patients with clinical depression who do not respond to standard medications. After two weeks of daily magnetic treatment, the 10 patients evaluated in the study showed improvement in tests that rate...
A major study aimed at preventing cardiovascular disease in diabetes will involve 10,000 patients and last for at least nine years. The study aims to determine whether aggressive control of glycemia, high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can reduce cardiovascular complications in Type 2 diabetes.
A new study found that Americans overestimate their lifespan by about a year compared to official statistics. Blacks and men are the most optimistic about their lifespans, while white females predict they will live less than expected.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered the crystal structure of an enzyme that repairs DNA damage caused by sunlight and cigarettes, a key component in the nucleotide excision repair system. The discovery sheds light on how this system differentiates between healthy and damaged DNA and recognizes various lesions.
A Phase I/II trial of NUVANCE, an investigational once-a-week inhaled asthma treatment, suggests the drug helped stabilize lung function for up to 12 weeks following discontinuation of inhaled corticosteroids. The treatment was generally well tolerated, with minimal decline in forced expiratory volume.
Research found that babies who used newer-style walkers with large trays took longer to sit upright, crawl, and walk compared to those who didn't use walkers. These delays were attributed to the restricted visual feedback from seeing their moving legs.
Children with leukemia who received central nervous system chemotherapy are at risk of learning difficulties later in life, according to a new study. The treatment may cause cognitive decline and academic struggles, particularly in reading, spelling, and arithmetic.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse's Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment outline essential components of effective treatment based on 30 years of research. The guide highlights the importance of individualized approaches and treatment effectiveness.
Researchers at Ohio State University developed a more efficient cooling system for microelectronics by doubling the number of tiny tubes in a two-layered design. This new heat sink can cool devices like computers and lasers with reduced power consumption and bulkier packaging.
Researchers have discovered a genetic on-off switch in yeast that could be used to control insulin levels in diabetics. The switch, consisting of two main parts, can be turned on or off by adding a chemical inducer, allowing for tight control over gene expression.
A new study suggests that Hillary Clinton's popularity among the American public is driven mostly by media coverage, with less influence from partisanship and national issues. The research found that negative media coverage has a greater impact on public reaction than positive coverage.
The U-M research will systematically study the proteins made by tumor cells, genes that instruct them, and subtle differences among proteins from different types of tumors. The goal is to develop rapid-analysis technology to detect cancer early and predict treatment response.
Günter Blobel's work on protein signaling discovered the importance of signal sequences in targeting proteins to their proper intracellular destinations. His research has led to a deeper understanding of protein trafficking, with implications for drug delivery and cellular processes.
A study of 2283 children aged 8-10 found that those living on farms were 3 times less likely to develop hay fever and asthma. Regular exposure to microbial antigens in stables may play a role in developing immune tolerance.
World leaders discuss economic, ethical and human rights issues underlying healthcare resource allocation for HIV/AIDS. The meeting highlights the need for better balance of resources between prevention and treatment, as well as access to essential drugs and treatments.
A Penn State researcher found that nearly three-fourths of women addicted to crack cocaine engage in prostitution to support their habit, highlighting the need for comprehensive support services. The study suggests that programs should offer housing, education, and job training to help these women escape poverty and addiction
Researchers have developed a model to study viral evasion and co-option of cellular defense strategies, revealing that persistent infection is achieved by suppressing cell suicide. Physiological changes occur, including slower growth and reduced virus infectivity over time.
Researchers used angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy to study the electronic structure of Nd-LSCO, finding charge carriers segregated into one-dimensional lines and exhibiting quantum fluctuations that give rise to two-dimensional effects. This discovery may help resolve a paradox between different theories of superconductivity.
The new HIVWatch database, developed at UC San Francisco, tracks real-world treatment outcomes for patients with HIV disease. Preliminary data show an increase in CD4 cells among patients at their first clinic meeting, but a stable viral load, suggesting further analysis is needed.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University and Oxford University have found a promising drug against the hepatitis C virus (HCV), called N-nonyl-DNJ, which inhibits the activity of an important cellular enzyme, glucosidase. This drug may sidestep resistant viruses, a major problem with current treatments.
A recent survey by researchers at the University of Michigan Health System found that patients (70%) and physicians (83%) want to communicate via e-mail, but only 14% and 27% are currently using it. The study aims to facilitate electronic communication between patients and their doctors.
A study by Brown researchers has found that the brain releases a naturally produced cannabinoid called anandamide in response to pain. The substance produces analgesia and may provide a new approach to treating chronic pain, particularly in cases where opiates are ineffective.
Pacifichem 2000 will bring together leading researchers in the Pacific Rim countries to discuss topics such as food antioxidants, extremophiles and organic superconductors. The conference features over 179 symposia on various subjects including medical applications, nanomaterials and marine natural products.
Researchers have discovered a reversible lipid imbalance that may be responsible for the common symptoms of cystic fibrosis. Administration of DHA corrected the imbalance and reversed signs of cystic fibrosis in mice with the genetic defect.
Researchers have developed a statistical technique to determine how different positions in a protein interact with each other. This breakthrough will help scientists understand protein function more efficiently, leading to the development of more effective drugs for various diseases.
Researchers found that patients with high levels of depression and anxiety had poorer results in reducing blood sugar levels, even after practicing relaxation techniques. However, those without these conditions experienced significant improvements in blood sugar control.
A recent study suggests that the immune system protein CD2AP may play a critical role in kidney function. Researchers found that mice lacking CD2AP developed defective glomeruli and died of renal failure, highlighting the protein's importance in maintaining kidney health. The discovery also sheds light on other diseases, such as congen...
Research suggests that strong traditional values among Southern Black women may be a key factor in lower smoking rates among African-Americans. The study found that Black adults in the non-urban South had the lowest smoking prevalence rates, with 11% of those aged 18-24 living smoke-free. This trend holds true for Southern Black women ...
The three-dimensional structure reveals that invasin is a rod-like protein resembling five tandemly arranged beads. Researchers now have a more specific target for developing antibacterial agents, as blocking binding to crucial regions of the invasin receptors should prevent bacterial entry into cells.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill marine scientist has warned of potentially devastating effects of Hurricane Floyd on the nation's largest lagoonal estuary, Pamlico Sound. The storm could lead to catastrophic flooding, runoff, and low oxygen conditions, harming commercial and recreational fisheries.
Scientists will gather at the University of Michigan to discuss technical problems in measuring global carbon emissions, including identifying 'sinks' for locking up atmospheric carbon. The three-day symposium aims to advance our understanding and verification of carbon credits.
The introduction of non-native smallmouth and rock bass into Canadian lakes has profound effects on native fish populations, particularly lake trout. The study uses stable isotope techniques to quantify the food-web consequences of recent invasions, revealing a dramatic impact on ecosystem functioning.
A clinical trial is underway at UCSF to test the effectiveness of traditional Tibetan medicine as a sole therapy for advanced breast cancer. The trial, led by Yeshi Dhonden and Dr. Debu Tripathy, aims to evaluate the impact of individualized herbal therapies on tumor size in women with stage IV breast cancer.
A new MIT study analyzes the economic and atmospheric impacts of the Kyoto Protocol, showing that controlling multiple gases can greatly reduce costs. The research indicates flaws in the protocol's 'yardstick' for comparing greenhouse gases, highlighting the need for an integrated systems approach to mitigate climate change.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina have identified latent membrane protein 1 as a key contributor to Epstein-Barr virus-induced cancer. The study found that mice with this protein developed lymphoma, highlighting its role in cancer development and potential target for prevention.
Researchers found that extracts from Scutellaria baicalensis significantly reduce cellular damage due to free radicals. The extract helped cells regain their ability to contract rhythmically after simulating cardiac arrest, reducing cell death by 47% compared to untreated cells.
The award encourages young science writers by recognizing outstanding reporting and writing in any field of science. The winner will receive $1,000 and expenses to attend the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Research suggests that decreased perception of pain, or hypoalgesia, may precede the onset of hypertension in individuals at high risk. The study found that men and women with hypertension are more likely to suffer an unrecognized myocardial infarction due to suppressed chest pain during episodes of myocardial ischemia.
The CU National Snow and Ice Data Center has posted avalanche awareness information on its website to educate skiers and backcountry enthusiasts. The materials provide guidance on evaluating snowpack stability, recognizing danger signals, and surviving avalanches, with links to related sources.
Scientists have discovered that the myc gene is even more powerful than previously believed, controlling cell growth and division while disabling brakes on growth. The findings mark a significant step towards understanding how faulty cell signals lead to cancer.
A new study suggests the West Antarctic Ice Sheet's complete disintegration in 7,000 years could be inevitable due to its potential instability. The ice sheet's collapse would raise global sea levels, flooding low-lying coastal regions and posing a significant threat to global climate patterns.
A new model of HIV decline during treatment suggests that antiretroviral therapy drives HIV down to stable levels, varying with drug efficacy. The model proposes that significant numbers of CD4+ T cells become infected with HIV after treatment initiation, leading to a gradual decline in viral load.
Researchers have reported the highest and most stable electron emission densities observed to date, desirable for flat-panel displays and microwave amplifiers. The carbon nanotubes' sharp tip and chemical robustness contribute to their superior stability and uniform emission.