NASA will unveil its future space transportation goals and programs at Space Transportation Day '99, aiming to lower launch costs and make interplanetary exploration feasible. The conference will cover various projects, including X-33 and X-34 rocket planes, as well as technologies for safer and more reliable operations.
A new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology reveals that low to moderate lead levels during pregnancy can increase the risk of spontaneous abortion. The research, conducted in Mexico City from 1994 to 1996, found that the risk nearly doubles for every five micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood.
Researchers used supercomputer simulations to test two competing scenarios explaining high-redshift galaxies. The collisional starburst scenario, which suggests small galaxies trigger intense bursts of star formation, received strong support from the simulation results.
The National Science Foundation's high-tech national supercomputer grid will be used in education, outreach, and training. Hands-on demonstrations of cutting-edge research and educational learning environments will be showcased at the conference.
A team of international researchers has identified the gene responsible for congenital generalized lipodystrophy, a severe form of lipodystrophy characterized by selective loss of body fat from birth. The discovery is expected to provide insights into common obesity and metabolic disorders.
Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have discovered a naturally occurring protein, herstatin, that inhibits the functions of the HER-2 oncogene, a major factor in breast and other cancers. Herstatin blocks the HER-2 signaling activity that causes tumor cells to grow, ultimately killing those cells.
Research reveals US adolescents are physically inactive, with minorities facing greater health risks from being overweight. The study found girls, especially older ones, tend to be least active, while programs targeting minority adolescents could help mitigate these risks.
A new study reveals that genetic changes caused by atherosclerosis may be the reason why estrogen does not provide preventative effect against heart disease. Researchers found evidence of DNA methylation, which prevents the formation of estrogen receptors in cardiovascular tissue.
Researchers identified two gene variants that may govern the body's ability to regulate levels of an enzyme called renal kallikrein, which can affect salt and water balance. The study found that variations in the human tissue kallikrein gene are associated with higher blood pressure in African Americans.