Researchers have created artificial hemoglobin using genetic engineering techniques, showing great potential as an oxygen carrier for synthetic blood. The breakthrough could alleviate perennial blood bank shortages and provide a safe alternative for surgeries, transplants, and treating blood disorders.
Astronomers use a flickering quasar image to estimate the expansion rate of the Universe and measure distances to extragalactic objects. The Chandra X-ray Observatory's mirage technique provides a promising method to avoid uncertainties in classic distance-ladder techniques.
Researchers at the University of Idaho and INEEL are using a unique laser-based method to study airflow around turbine blades, which can lead to improved performance and reduced maintenance costs. The Matched Index of Refraction Flow System will enable detailed measurements of flow patterns and surface roughness.
Researchers Beau Lotto and Dale Purves suggest that the visual system perceives color based on reflectances and illuminances of past stimuli. In experiments, subjects adjusted colors to match perceived color differences, showing an increased difference when contexts suggested different objects or illumination.
UCLA researchers found that nicotine causes selective degeneration in the fasciculus retroflexus pathway, a region linked to drug addiction and relapse. High doses of nicotine led to almost complete degeneration in this pathway, highlighting its vulnerability to stimulant drugs.
Researchers at UNC-CH have found a strong correlation between men's preference for sweet tastes and whether their twin brothers liked sweets too. The study suggests that genes may be linked to the urge to drink alcohol.
A CU-Boulder study found that Denver-area drivers are largely unaware of the impact of air-quality advisories on their transportation habits, despite being aware of the advisories themselves. The study suggests possible alternatives to mitigate the problem, such as subsidizing public transit passes and improving cycling infrastructure.
A new study found that Staphylococcus aureus produces a toxin that breaks down the protein Desmoglein 1, causing blistering and skin cell adhesion loss. The findings provide insight into the bacterial mechanism of impetigo infection and spread.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins have identified a specific enzyme, beta-secretase, as crucial for forming the hallmark amyloid plaques of Alzheimer's disease. The study, which used mice models, suggests that targeting this enzyme could offer new therapeutic options for treating the condition.
Researchers used fMRI scans to identify whether participants were imagining faces or places, achieving an accuracy rate of 85% in some trials. The study has implications for understanding the minds of individuals unable to communicate due to injuries or disorders.
Researchers have discovered a new method for measuring the molecular properties of materials, allowing them to study nanostructures in unprecedented detail. The Gradient-Field-Raman (GFR) spectroscopy technique reveals unique vibration patterns that couldn't be explained by previous methods.
A study has identified four factors that contribute to decreased school connectedness, including declining health status, cigarette use, and lack of extracurricular involvement. School nurses may play a key role in identifying disconnected youth, who are at higher risk for adverse outcomes.
Research by Imperial College scientists shows that previous infection history greatly affects the duration and severity of subsequent lung infections. This highlights the importance of considering past infections in vaccine design, particularly for individuals with varying ages and immune systems.
New analysis of astronomical data suggests that galaxies with rapid rates of star formation are linked to active supermassive black holes. The study found evidence that starbursts, regions of frequent and rapid star formation, may be obscuring the central black holes' emissions in some Seyfert galaxies.
Researchers identified LRP-1 as a key molecule in removing beta amyloid protein from the brain through blood circulation. In healthy mice, blood vessels efficiently clear amyloid peptide, whereas impaired LRP-1 function can lead to plaque accumulation and neurodegeneration.
Studies at the University of Illinois have identified a brain pathway in which neurons activate during low oxygen, triggering increased breathing. Newborns may not have enough neurons to respond sufficiently, possibly contributing to sudden infant death syndrome.
A team of scientists has discovered a group of enzymes capable of duplicating damaged genetic material, allowing cells to 'compromise' and replicate with a certain 'sloppiness'. This mechanism increases genetic diversity and enables natural selection, driving the evolutionary process.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine used stem cells to treat paralysis in rodents infected with an animal virus that damages motor neurons. Fifty percent of treated rodents regained hind leg function, suggesting potential for improved treatments for ALS and spinal motor atrophy.
A new study by UNC Chapel Hill researchers found that pregnant women with low calcium intake have higher levels of lead in their bloodstream due to rapid bone turnover. Calcium consumption can minimize this effect, but the study also suggests that even low-level exposure may pose health risks.
The Geological Society of America is hosting press briefings during its annual meeting in November 2000. The events will feature presentations from experts on topics such as landslides and slope-stability problems related to gas hydrates, the Walker Lane transform plate boundary, and planetary science research. The meetings are open to...
Researchers found evidence that supernovae explosions can leave behind iron-rich gas clouds that feed gamma-ray bursts. The 'supranova' model suggests that the gamma-ray burst arises from the delayed collapse of a neutron star formed by the supernova explosion.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a DNA-based sensor that can detect lead ions in real-time. The sensor uses catalytic DNA with high metal ion selectivity and sensitivity to fluorescence detection, making it an ideal candidate for environmental monitoring and clinical toxicology applications.
A new technology called Partial Rootzone Drying (PRD) has emerged as a solution to reduce river water irrigation without exacerbating saline soils. By alternating irrigation patterns, half of the roots can be kept moist while the other half are kept dry, conserving water and maintaining fruit production.
Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine identified new genes involved in RNA processing, transcriptional regulation, and detoxification that contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. The discovery provides new insight into the disease process and may lead to the development of drugs to slow or halt degeneration.
Frank S. Quinn, a professor of mathematics at Virginia Tech, has been recognized as an AAAS fellow for his contributions to low-dimensional topology. He is the first person to prove the 4-dimensional annulus conjecture, a theoretical work that aims to understand mathematical structures and potentially connect with high-energy physics.
A 290-million-year-old, upright-lizard-like reptile has been found, predating the age of dinosaurs by at least 60 million years. The discovery provides strong evidence for the early evolution of herbivorous reptiles on land, suggesting that bipedalism evolved independently in different animal groups.
Researchers at UT Southwestern will advance genomic research on heart disorders to identify genes contributing to the condition and develop individualized drug therapies. The project will also provide free access to genome information and training for other scientists, complementing existing studies on heart disease prevention.
A recent study by University of Illinois professor Tim Wentling found that businesses are devoting only a small portion of their training budgets to e-learning efforts. Despite the benefits of online education, many companies are using relatively basic and limited methods for employee training.
Kriton Hatzios, a renowned plant scientist at Virginia Tech, has been awarded the prestigious AAAS Fellow Award. He is recognized for his outstanding contributions to understanding the mechanisms of herbicide action and selectivity in crops.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that target cells, such as muscle membranes, have long and dynamic process-like structures called myopodia. These myopodia cluster with axon filopodia, forming a connection between neurons and muscles, enabling synapse formation.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that men tend to prefer economic-based goals, while women prioritize socially satisfying pursuits. The study used the Big Five personality taxonomy to analyze responses from college-aged students.
NIDA will sponsor a series of satellite symposia at the Society for Neuroscience annual meeting, focusing on NIDA neuroscience directions, synaptic vesicle trafficking, and minority scholars research opportunities. The symposia will bring together top researchers to discuss cutting-edge neurological research.
A 290 million-year-old reptile's nearly complete skeleton reveals it was a bipedal runner that probably used its speed to escape predators. Its unique posture, with long legs and short arms, indicates an upright locomotion similar to humans'.
Soft lithography enables fabrication of silicon thin-film transistors on curved substrates with conformable patterning. The technique overcomes photolithography limitations for large-format and unconventional materials applications.
Researchers at ANU have developed a new high-resolution map of the energy surface of molecules using quantum dynamics to analyze hydrogen reacting with heavy water. This new methodology allows for faster and more accurate analysis of chemical reactions, enabling scientists to study other reactions more effectively.
A seven-university team led by Brown University aims to add light waves to microchips, creating a superchip that could replace electronic microchips and enable faster personal computers and Internet connections.
Researchers at ZymoGenetics have identified a novel Interleukin, IL-21, and its receptor, which play a crucial role in regulating the immune system. The discovery was made using an integrated genomics approach and has shown promising results in promoting the activation of immune cells.
A study has shown that two new medications, LAAM and buprenorphine, are effective in treating heroin addiction, with all three medications dramatically reducing heroin use. The research found that patients on these medications had a 90% drop in heroin use and were more likely to stay in treatment.
A Cornell University research team studied the fundamental step in hydrogen combustion, finding that energy is released when newly formed water molecules are produced in excited vibrational and rotational levels. The study's results support new theoretical predictions, providing a breakthrough in understanding chemical reactions.
Researchers at MGH/Harvard discovered a tiny RNA gene controlling developmental timing in animals, including fish, sea urchins, and humans. The gene is conserved across bilaterally symmetric animals but not in more primitive or plant species.
A new UK research study found that creatine supplementation reduces brain damage in mice and rats with traumatic brain injury. Brain damage was reduced by 21%, 36% and 50% respectively when creatine was administered before or after the injury.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a low-calorie diet can slow down metabolism, but when stopped, the metabolic rate returns to normal. Variations in resting metabolic rate do not predict weight regain, suggesting other factors are at play.
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has awarded $20,000 doctoral research grants to five Canadian students. The winners will study various aspects of international development, including civil war's impact on Burundi's populations and the effects of State decentralization in Senegal.
A 373-year-old white oak in Ohio's Dysart Woods provides a clear picture of a forest without human intervention. The tree's rings reveal information on droughts, weather patterns, and the impact of human activity on the environment.
A new study reveals that bullfrogs employ a rule-driven strategy in their calling behavior, which is both competitive and cooperative. By homing in on calls from distant neighbors or inhibiting close-by calls, male bullfrogs conserve energy while attracting females and maintaining territories.
The Purdue University engineers' modified office chair uses software algorithms to interpret pressure sensor data and determine the user's seating posture. The system demonstrated an overall accuracy of 96% in distinguishing between different postures, with a special dynamic system being worked on for real-time tracking.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that African Americans who undergo carotid endarterectomy (CEA) have worse outcomes than whites due to the operation being performed in less experienced hands. The study suggests that socioeconomic factors are influential in determining surgical outcome, rather than genetic differences.
The Joint Genome Institute (JGI) has produced high-quality draft sequences of 15 bacterial genomes in under a month, representing diverse organisms and a new approach to sequencing microbes. This data will be publicly available, providing scientists with immediate access to essential information for research.
Researchers found that alpha-synuclein, a key component of Parkinson's lesions, is targeted by oxidative stress, specifically nitration. This discovery provides conclusive evidence for the role of oxidative damage in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Researchers will study blood samples from sepsis patients to confirm the link between free radicals and falling blood pressure. The goal is to understand why blood pressure continues to plummet despite using pharmacological agents that should increase and maintain vascular pressure.
A UC Irvine study found that rice paddies emit significant amounts of methyl halide gases, contributing to stratospheric ozone depletion. The study suggests that agricultural sources play a role in this atmospheric phenomenon, and highlights the importance of understanding natural sources of ozone-depleting gases.
Listeria monocytogenes has discovered a mechanism for managing infection by living comfortably inside cells until ready to break out and spread the infection. The bacteria use a pore-forming toxin, listeriolysin O, that is modified with a PEST sequence tag, allowing it to evade the host's immune system.
Researchers found high concentrations of discharged microbes in ballast water from ships arriving at Chesapeake Bay ports. The study highlights the need for greater concern about biological invasions and emergent diseases, as non-indigenous microorganisms can cause significant ecological and disease processes.
Experts warn of a high risk of 700-800 deaths in US airport runway collisions over the next two decades. The study, which analyzed data from 1983 to 2022, found that most fatal accidents involved large jet planes and occurred during reduced visibility conditions.
Women who repeatedly gain and lose weight, especially if obese, have lower HDL or
A one-year study found that moderate vitamin E supplementation can slow the oxidation of LDL cholesterol in diabetics, reducing their risk of cardiovascular disease. The authors suggest that uninterrupted long-term supplementation may be preferable over short-term 'cures' using high-doses or intravenous administration.
Adults exposed to Dutch famine in utero exhibit abnormal lipid profiles, with significantly higher total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. Maternal malnutrition in the first trimester permanently alters offspring lipid profiles later in life.
An interactive computer game can save lives by teaching potential heart attack victims to react swiftly at the first sign of a heart attack. The HEART-SENSE Game, developed by Barry G. Silverman and John Holmes, uses virtual personas and quizzes to educate users about early warning signs and the importance of calling 911.
The University of California, San Francisco strongly rejected claims made by a company that attempted to block publication of an important AIDS research study. The study found no evidence of clinical benefit for the drug HIV-1 Immunogen in boosting the immune system of patients with HIV-1.
Experts at UNC-CH School of Social Work are developing a social development program called Making Choices to strengthen children's social skills and reduce peer rejection, alienation, and aggression. The program aims to teach children conflict resolution skills and foster enduring friendships in multicultural peer groups.