A consortium of researchers found that isocitrate lyase (ICL) enables the tuberculosis bacterium to use fatty acids as energy. Disabling ICL crippled the bacterium in its persistent phase, suggesting a potential target for TB therapies. Current treatments are often ineffective due to the bug's ability to persist in the body.
Researchers found that the northern Hayward fault slips at a rate of 5-7 millimeters per year, similar to the surface, indicating it is not locked and releasing built-up strain. This reduces the threat of a major quake on this segment, but other hazards remain high.
Scientists at Georgia Institute of Technology have successfully created nanojets, tiny devices that could revolutionize electronics and gene delivery. The jets achieved a high velocity of up to 400 meters per second and formed droplets with remarkably uniform size.
A new study found that parents who value autonomy are less likely to respond harshly to sibling conflicts, leading to reduced fighting between teens. The amount of time spent together with teen children is also crucial in maintaining a warm sibling relationship.
Canadian researchers developed a method to steer proteins to bone, where they can accumulate and help build bone mass. Additional research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these proteins in growing bone tissue.
Scientists have successfully cloned a piglet using microinjection, marking a significant step towards xenotransplantation and genetically modified organs. The breakthrough could lead to human-friendly pig organs, reducing rejection rates and increasing the success of organ transplants.
The Consortium of New York Geriatric Education Centers has received a $1.3 million grant to provide interdisciplinary training on geriatric care. The grant will support 40-50 hour certificate programs, continuing education conferences, and outreach to underserved areas.
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that the hair follicle and epidermis may originate from the same cache of cells. The finding suggests that daughter cells in the upper follicle migrate upward to form and maintain the new epidermis, and down to form the hair shaft.
Researchers have discovered a potent antioxidant in beer, specifically the compound xanthohumol found in hops, which has been shown to be six times more effective than antioxidants in citrus fruits and four times more effective than those in soy products. The study suggests that drinking beer may help prevent certain diseases such as h...
Hospital survival rates for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) patients have increased by 40% over the years 1992 to 1995, with a two-fold improvement in mechanical ventilation outcomes. New lung function data shows that Chinese children's lung capacity is lower than white youngsters', but also improved in certain tests.
A study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that excess glucose consumption stimulates the generation of free radicals, which can damage cells lining blood vessels. The researchers also observed a decrease in levels of a-tocopherol, a powerful antioxidant.
American bullfrogs are non-native to western Canada, but their population is expanding rapidly due to human activity. Purnima Govindarajulu, a UVic graduate student, is studying the impact of these invasive frogs on native species and ecosystems.
LSU will create a new engineering discipline to address design concepts behind buildings and infrastructure in hurricane-prone regions. The program will offer courses in civil engineering and disaster engineering for upper-level undergraduates and graduate students.
Researchers found that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) performed better on a 'false-memory' test due to their impaired ability to use context. This improvement enabled them to recognize words that had been on a word list, while non-autistic subjects struggled with false memories. The study suggests that high-functioning...
Researchers found two stages of age-related deterioration of sleep quality: the first between young adulthood (16-25) and mid-life (35-50), and the second after age 50. Changes in sleep quality were mirrored by changes in hormone secretion, particularly growth hormone, which declined significantly with age.
Researchers found that celecoxib reduced breast tumor incidence by 68% and average tumor size by 81% in rats. The anti-tumor effects of celecoxib are attributed to its ability to inhibit an enzyme that promotes cancer growth.
A new system of planting different varieties of rice plants can significantly reduce problems with the fungal disease 'blast', which causes lesions on rice plants, reduces yields and in severe cases can kill entire crops. This approach has been shown to eliminate losses to blast in some types of glutinous rice.
A study by Prof. Arnold Labrie explores how desire for purity emerged as a response to societal changes, masking a preoccupation with the impure. The concept of purity is closely tied to order and excludes those deemed 'impure', reflecting underlying tensions between traditional values and emerging modernities.
Electrons may undergo fission in liquid helium at temperatures near absolute zero, violating the long-held notion that elementary particles cannot be broken into two pieces. Experimental evidence supports this theory, which suggests that light can cause an electron's bubble to divide into smaller bubbles.
A recent survey in the Netherlands reveals that chronic pain affects approximately 18% of the population, with frequent problems including lower back pain and abdominal pain. The study highlights the need for more research into the effects of treatment methods, as current evidence is often inadequate or contradictory.
A new study reveals that over 100 countries have laws that can imprison journalists for 'insulting' government officials and institutions. The World Press Freedom Committee sponsored the research, led by Dr. Ruth Walden, which found that such laws undermine democracies and stifle free speech.
Researchers found that long-term memories become labile every time they are retrieved, making them susceptible to alteration or disruption. The process of reconsolidation, which involves the generation of new proteins, is necessary to store long-term memories without retrieval.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that cochlear implants improve quality of life and save $50,000+ over a child's lifetime. The study provides evidence that pediatric cochlear implantation is highly cost-effective from a societal perspective.
Research found that low dietary vitamin C intakes are associated with higher rates of periodontal disease, particularly in smokers. Vitamin C's antioxidant properties play a crucial role in maintaining healthy connective tissue and combating oxidative stress.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered that stress can increase the amount of hypericin in St. John's Wort, a popular herbal remedy for depression. The study found that plants under attack from insects produce more hypericin, which may contribute to its effectiveness.
UT Southwestern researchers identified a specific protein in sensory nerves that contribute to cyclosporine-induced hypertension. The study found that mice lacking this protein experienced no increase in blood pressure when administered cyclosporine.
An IBM-led team has demonstrated a 5-qubit quantum computer that can solve the order-finding problem, a complex mathematical problem that conventional computers struggle to solve. The new result confirms predictions made earlier this year and gives confidence in understanding how quantum computing can evolve into a future technology
Professor Al Hazari, a University of Tennessee educator, has been recognized by the American Chemical Society for his dedication to enhancing science appreciation. He implemented a successful K-12 outreach program, attracting major corporate and sponsorship support.
High levels of ground-level ozone have been found to severely impact the growth of ozone-sensitive crops on Long Island, including spinach, grapes, pumpkins, watermelons, and tomatoes. This research highlights the urgent need for attention to be paid to ambient ozone levels in agricultural areas.
Researchers have identified a new treatment approach that could reverse the dramatic blood pressure drop associated with septic shock by removing excess superoxide free radicals. The treatment, a MetaPhore SOD mimetic, restored norepinephrine's ability to constrict blood vessels and reversed hypotension in rat models of septic shock.
Ground-level ozone levels are high enough to reduce growth and yield of sensitive plants on Long Island, where important agriculture is located. White clover has been particularly affected, with a 24-27% reduction in growth rate.
A recent study published in JAMA found that babies born as little as one week prematurely are at increased risk of dying, especially from asphyxia and infection. Mild prematurity was defined as 34 through 36 completed weeks' gestation, while moderate prematurity was defined as 32 through 34 completed weeks' gestation.
Researchers warn that children born with persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) may be at risk for progressive hearing loss, even if standard auditory testing proves normal in the first weeks of life. Periodic hearing tests every six months until age 3 are recommended to avoid delayed diagnosis and its associated costs.
Chemist Ned A. Porter of Vanderbilt University has discovered how free radicals attack molecules in the body, a process that may be critical to the development of arterial plaque and heart attacks. His work also reveals that antioxidants like vitamins C and E can affect and stop this reaction.
Researchers at Cornell University and the USDA have found that stressed St. John's wort plants produce more of the active compound hypericin, which is a key ingredient in depression remedies. The finding suggests that the plant's chemical arsenal increases when it faces stress from predators like insects.
John Bercaw, a Pasadena chemist, has developed more precise catalysts to make plastics and other polymers. He will receive the 2000 Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award from the American Chemical Society.
Chemist Albert Padwa receives Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award for developing fundamental techniques to streamline drug synthesis. He aims to make potential drugs with elegance, high efficiency, and minimal steps.
Eric T. Kool, a Stanford University professor, has developed a new understanding of how enzymes make copies of DNA by surrounding the double-stranded molecule and using it as a template. He aims to apply this technique to genetic therapy to inhibit genes linked to inherited diseases.
A randomized trial found that zinc acetate lozenges reduced the duration and symptoms of colds, but caution is needed due to potential copper deficiency risks. Antiretroviral therapy also showed promising results in reducing HIV transmission in semen, but with concerns about drug resistance.
The American Heart Association has revised its cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines, eliminating the need for a pulse check by bystanders before starting chest compressions. The new guidelines instead recommend looking for signs of circulation such as breathing, movement, and response to stimulation.
Jonathan Ellman, a professor of chemistry at UC Berkeley, will receive the 2000 Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award for his groundbreaking work in combinatorial chemistry, which enables the rapid design and testing of large families of molecules with potential therapeutic applications.
A new Johns Hopkins study found that only 8% of adult cola drinkers could detect caffeine in cola at a concentration of 0.1 milligram per milliliter. The majority of group couldn't taste the difference until caffeine levels were raised to much higher levels.
Swager's innovative use of active plastics has led to the development of a highly sensitive plastic landmine detector, outperforming even trained dogs. His research also focuses on creating molecular wires with conductive molecules and insulation.
Chemist David L. Van Vranken receives Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award for his studies of protein reactivity patterns, which have led to the development of new drugs targeting cancer and other diseases. His research has also shed light on the effects of aging and environmental factors on proteins in the body.
Researchers found that even after six months of antiretroviral therapy, a substantial percentage of men with HIV remain infectious. The study suggests that men should continue to practice safe sex and follow medication instructions carefully.
David A. Evans, an organic chemist at Harvard University, will receive the 2000 Arthur C. Cope Award for his work on developing fundamental chemistry to assemble building blocks and control molecule three-dimensionality. He hopes to improve and modify vancomycin biosynthesis to build more potent or side-effect-free analogs.
A recent study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that binge-pattern exposure to alcohol during adolescence can disrupt working memory and make the brain more vulnerable to cell death. The study suggests that teenagers who drink heavily and often may be especially susceptible to the neurobehavioral effects ...
Layne T. Watson develops software like HOMPACK to automate problem-solving in industries like engineering and science, improving efficiency and reducing time to market.
A study of 75 countries reveals that social, economic and political factors are crucial for Internet development, including literacy, education, political freedom and service-based economies. Countries with the greatest Internet development have high rates of these factors, making them poised to cross the digital divide.
The Second Annual Louisiana Materials Science Conference will bring together academics and industry experts to discuss a range of materials science topics. The conference, held at the University of New Orleans, will feature over 30 presenters and explore the latest developments in materials science.
A Penn State researcher finds that curriculum tracking in US middle schools tends to work against poorer students, with factors such as attitude and course complexity contributing to this outcome. The system often discourages low-income families from questioning or contesting the placement offered by the school.
Researchers are studying zeolites, crystals that can produce more gasoline from a barrel of oil, reducing dependence on petroleum. In microgravity, larger crystals are grown, providing insights into their structure and potential for efficient fuel production.
Researchers have developed a new method to measure alcohol concentrations directly in the human brain using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). This technique allows scientists to study the physical interactions between alcohol and brain membranes, providing insights into the biological basis of alcohol abuse.
The UCSF School of Medicine has developed a radical new curriculum that integrates disciplines, introduces clinical concepts early, and expedites students' entry into patient care. The new model will replace the traditional structure and include courses taught in integrated blocks centered on clinical cases.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found six high school football players died from brain injuries in 1999. The deaths were attributed to improper tackling techniques and inadequate precautions, leading to a focus on coach education and player safety measures.
The new book, edited by Howard Libman and Harvey J. Makadon, offers high-quality primary medical care to HIV-infected patients. With contributions from 23 AIDS experts, the book covers pathogenesis, antiretroviral therapy, and infection control.
Columbia University researchers have identified a target molecule called RAGE that contributes to cellular damage in diseases like diabetes, cancer, and Alzheimer's. Blocking RAGE has shown promise in halting or reversing cellular damage in animal studies.
A Penn State researcher finds that churches in lower-income areas offer fewer opportunities for learning civic skills, despite their importance. Church members from upper-class congregations are more likely to develop these skills, but they are less common among lower-class individuals.
A new NIH-funded study will examine the likelihood and determinants of elder neglect by analyzing differences between neglect and non-neglect cases. The study aims to understand the complex dyadic relationship between older adults and their caregivers.
A study examines the drinking habits of American Indians and African Americans during pregnancy, revealing misconceptions and misunderstandings about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome risk. The research aims to improve health warnings and social norms to reduce alcohol consumption during pregnancy.