Researchers at Adelaide University are working to improve cotton fibre quality through genetic engineering, aiming to increase yield and reduce pesticide use. They are studying the genetic control of fibre development using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model organism.
A University of Colorado Boulder research team has confirmed a theory about charged dust in space, explaining how it affects spacecraft and astronauts. The study used an experiment to levitate particles with positive charge above the moon's surface.
Researchers at University of Toronto have identified a common principle underlying brain cell death in neurodegenerative disorders. They propose a 'one-hit' model, where cells die after a single catastrophic event, rather than gradual damage over time.
A recent study found that a short regimen of nevirapine continues to reduce HIV transmission in infants even when breastfed. The results showed a sustained 39% reduction in risk over 12 months, and preliminary data suggest an additional 2% reduction after 18 months.
Researchers found that wearing reverse-geometry gas permeable contact lenses for 7 nights improved the daytime eyesight of 7 out of 8 nearsighted subjects. By the end of a 60-day trial, all subjects could see clearly without contacts or glasses.
A study by Cornell University ecologists found that cadmium from abandoned mines is affecting white-tailed ptarmigan birds in Colorado, causing brittle bones and damaged kidneys. The metal is also concentrated in willow plants, which the birds eat, leading to reduced reproductive success.
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that 46% of adult white-tailed ptarmigan in a 10,000-square kilometer area of south-central Colorado have cadmium accumulations in their kidneys above the toxic threshold. Cadmium toxicity causes kidney and liver dysfunction, brittle bones, and affects reproduction and survival.
Scientists at UCSF have identified a molecule, S1P, that guides the union of two primordial heart tubes in zebrafish embryos. This discovery sheds light on the critical role of S1P in human heart development and may provide insights into other cellular processes such as wound healing.
UC Davis researchers have successfully restored vision in 10 of 14 patients suffering from severe corneal damage, using a new technique to grow replacement cornea tissue in a laboratory dish. The treatment showed significant improvement in visual acuity, enabling patients to regain their independence.
A new study finds that women with moderate iron deficiency struggle to increase aerobic endurance after exercise training, while iron supplements can compensate for this impairment. Iron-deficient women who boost their body iron through supplements can improve their exercise endurance twice as much as those without supplementation.
Researchers have found a previously unknown oxygen-isotope signature in sulfate minerals on Earth, altering the understanding of the anomaly's origin. The discovery provides a new window into the Earth's ancient atmosphere and its cycling processes.
A new model for neuronal cell death in inherited neurodegenerative diseases proposes that mutant genes increase the risk of sudden programmed cell death. Researchers aim to target factors leading to increased neuronal death risk by identifying critical reactions, which could lead to effective treatments.
A new electrode design using fuel cell technology could potentially cut aluminum smelting costs by one-fourth and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by half. The proposed design would replace carbon anodes with zirconia tubes carrying natural gas, eliminating fluorocarbon production and reducing power consumption by 40%.
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered a new mechanism of drug resistance in cancer cells, where growth factors protect tumors from anticancer drugs. They found that inhibiting these growth factors may improve chemotherapy effectiveness and reduce dosage needed.
Researchers at Boston University developed a computer model to analyze how molecules move through super-cooled water, providing insights into life's survival at sub-zero temperatures. By understanding the 'energy landscape' of super-cooled water, scientists can predict how molecules diffuse and carry nutrients to cells.
Researchers found that adding interleukin-2 to highly active antiretroviral therapy improves CD4 cell counts in recently infected patients. After 48 weeks of treatment, the average CD4 cell count increased significantly in the early IL-2 group compared to the deferred group.
The NTUA is installing 200 photovoltaic systems at private residences in remote areas, serving a single home each. The systems provide clean and quiet power for households with limited or no electricity, improving living standards.
A multi-institutional study found that adding interleukin-2 to antiretroviral therapy increases CD4 cell counts and decreases detectable virus levels in HIV-infected patients. The study showed significant improvements in immunologic function, with 67% of patients achieving low viral loads.
The NIH has established an international network to develop and test non-vaccine strategies for HIV prevention, focusing on microbicides, behavioral interventions, and antiretroviral therapy. The HPTN aims to identify promising measures to protect people, especially children and women, from HIV infection.
The study will track brain development in two age groups: infants up to four years old and children aged five to 18. By correlating anatomical measurements with cognitive skills, researchers aim to establish a normal growth curve for the brain. This will provide a basis for comparison to children with developmental or neurologic problems.
Two unique cases of West Nile virus infection reported in Neurology, showing deceptive symptoms initially misdiagnosed as Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Both patients eventually fully recovered, but highlight the need for greater awareness and testing for the mosquito-borne virus.
A study by the San Francisco Department of Public Health found that anonymous HIV screening of jail inmates offers an opportunity to track the epidemic in at-risk groups. The study detected a higher number of STDs than typically picked up in screening programs outside the jail setting.
A new study published at the CINP meeting found that treating patients with schizophrenia with Risperdal resulted in a daily savings of $2.80 US per patient, corresponding to an annual saving of $1,022 US. This cost-effectiveness analysis may translate into significant figures given the high prevalence of schizophrenia worldwide.
Scientists at the University of Illinois Chicago are exploring a novel approach to measuring sleepiness using pupil size, which could revolutionize the diagnosis of sleep disorders. The study aims to establish pupillometry as an objective measure of excessive daytime sleepiness and potentially improve treatment outcomes.
A University of Washington researcher found that climbers using supplemental oxygen on Mount Everest had a 3% death rate during descent, compared to an 8.3% death rate for those not using oxygen. A similar pattern emerged on K2, where none of the successful climbers who used supplemental oxygen died during descent.
Scientists have developed a new way to detect and quantify various types of radiation damage to DNA, including clusters of oxidized bases and abasic sites. The test could help assess radiation risks for astronauts, improve cancer therapy, and distinguish between normal living and low-level radiation-induced damage.
Researchers found that women carry lower levels of HIV in their blood than men, especially during early phases of infection, but have the same risk as men of developing AIDS. Current guidelines may lead to more men being eligible for treatment due to lower viral load thresholds.
A preliminary study found that combining Agenerase with low-dose ritonavir increases amprenavir plasma levels, potentially improving treatment goals. The study, conducted on PI-experienced patients, showed a significant increase in amprenavir concentrations when ritonavir was added.
Researchers at NIAID explore a new approach to HIV treatment involving cyclic therapy, which may reduce HAART duration and costs. Preliminary findings suggest that patients can maintain minimal viral loads and adequate CD4+ T cells during intermittent therapy.
A UT Southwestern study shows that vitamin E can help reduce inflammation caused by white blood cells, which is a significant factor in diabetic vascular disease. The study found that increasing vitamin E intake reduced monocyte activity and promoted less inflammation and free radicals in type II diabetics.
Scientists at Case Western Reserve University found a natural ceramic structure in the Queen conch shell that can be mimicked to create load-bearing, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant ceramics. The shell's unique microarchitecture allows it to distribute loads effectively, making it strong and fracture resistant.
A study of 286 patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease found that treatment response to Aricept was not predicted by ApoE4 genotype or gender. Patients treated with Aricept showed significant improvements in global function and cognition, while those on placebo experienced decline.
Researchers observed a bright X-ray flare from a brown dwarf, LP 944-20, which lasted nearly two hours and had an energy comparable to small solar flares. The flare's origin is believed to be in twisted magnetic fields beneath the surface of the brown dwarf, providing strong hints about the existence of turbulent magnetized hot material.
Researchers use MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy to detect Alzheimer's disease by measuring chemical markers in the brain. The study found that this technique can distinguish patients with Alzheimer's from those without the disease and identify patterns of damage consistent with the disease.
The International Rubber Conference will explore various aspects of rubber technology, including bonding to other materials, civil engineering, environmental impact, and product performance. Authors are invited to submit abstracts by September 29, 2000.
A study by Dr. David Bennett found that many people with mild cognitive impairment exhibit Alzheimer's disease pathology, indicating a larger public health problem than previously thought. The research suggests increased funding for clinical care and research is needed to combat the disease effectively.
Dr. Paul Janssen received the CINP-Pfizer Pioneers in Psychopharmacology Award for his work revolutionizing treatment of psychosis and introducing risperidone, a first-choice antipsychotic worldwide.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered that snapdragons release more scent during the day when bees are active, and that this relationship between the flower and bee is crucial for pollination. The study also found that a genetic regulatory mechanism controls the production of floral scents in different plant species.
Researchers aim to identify a faulty switch in the brain controlling pain, which may also contribute to high blood pressure. The study could provide doctors with an additional tool to prevent hypertension and potentially lead to a new drug treatment.
The World Alzheimer Congress will showcase recent discoveries on Alzheimer's disease, including the link between cell suicide and amyloid protein accumulation. Researchers also explored the role of apoE4 in driving brain damage and cognitive decline.
A nationwide study found that primary caregivers, especially women with young children and limited health insurance, frequently delay their own medical treatment for HIV. This delay can lead to lost opportunities for timely anti-retroviral therapy, highlighting the need for support services in medical settings.
The Bay Area Perinatal AIDS Center's coordinated care model significantly reduces HIV transmission from mother to child. Nurse clinicians focus on the challenges of caring for HIV-infected mothers, implementing interventions such as coordinated medication schedules.
A new study finds that providing female condoms to commercial sex workers in rural South Africa is a highly cost-effective means of preventing HIV transmission. The analysis found that 5.9 cases of HIV, 38 cases of syphilis, and 33 cases of gonorrhea would be averted per year in 1,000 female condom recipients.
A study of adoptive and biological families found that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to behavioral problems, drug use, and lower academic achievement in children after parental divorce. Environmental stress appears to be a stronger predictor of these outcomes.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that a combination of exercise and weight loss significantly reduces high blood pressure in overweight individuals. The researchers, led by James A. Blumenthal, Ph.D., randomly assigned 133 sedentary men and women to either aerobic exercise alone or a behavioral weight management...
A new study by the American Psychological Association found that a firm handshake is associated with a favorable first impression for both males and females. The study suggests that consistent handshaking is related to personality traits such as extraversion and openness.
A national study found that women aged 40+ are less active due to lack of social support, caregiving duties, and inconvenient environments. The majority prefer exercising alone with instruction over group sessions.
Despite new treatments extending lives of individuals with HIV, the overall shortfalls in AIDS treatments are becoming apparent. The US data shows a stabilization in AIDS cases and deaths diagnosed each quarter since July 1998, with roughly 4,000 AIDS deaths and 10,000 AIDS cases diagnosed annually.
Researchers found that adding IL-2 to antiretroviral therapy significantly increases CD4+ T-cell counts in HIV-infected patients. The study's results suggest that IL-2 may be used as a means of maintaining quality of life and decreasing AIDS-defining events.
A study published in the journal Stroke found that Chlamydia pneumoniae infection is associated with a higher risk of first ischemic stroke, particularly due to inflammation caused by the infection. The researchers also discovered that shorter-lived IgA antibodies were strongly linked to the risk of having a first stroke.
Two conferences will be held to present scientific findings on ocean issues, including fisheries, pollution, health, and gas hydrates. The events aim to develop a policy agenda for the US and internationally, with keynote speakers like Robert Ballard and Jean-Michel Cousteau.
Gwen Lloyd has received a $438,354 NSF CAREER award to develop an integrated program of research and education on teacher learning with innovative K-12 materials. The project aims to promote meaningful changes in prospective teachers' conceptions and classroom practices through the use of reform-oriented curriculum materials.
Scientists at NRC's Steacie Institute of Molecular Sciences have developed a method to grow organic wires on silicon crystals using a scanning tunneling microscope, overcoming obstacles in microchip technology. The technique enables the rapid growth of molecular lines, paving the way for hybrid devices with unique capabilities.
Researchers have discovered chemical cousins of an antimalarial drug that show promise in treating serious antibiotic-resistant infections. The compounds, originally developed to treat malaria and other parasitic infections, have been found to be as active as many currently used drugs against a range of bacteria, including staphylococc...
Jay Levy, a professor at UCSF, debates that the innate immune system helps prevent HIV infection and progression to disease. He cites cases of HIV patients with few CD4 cells who remain healthy without opportunistic infections or cancer.
A University of Iowa researcher and his colleague confirm the validity of scientific theories on ancient marine life by testing library-based databases. They found that up to 70% of entries are inaccurate but randomly distributed, not introducing bias into patterns.
Researchers discovered a mutation in the mineralocorticoid receptor gene, leading to dangerously high blood pressure in pregnant women. The mutation renders the receptor more sensitive to progesterone, causing excessive salt retention and skyrocketing blood pressure.
Researchers discovered a mutation in the mineralocorticoid receptor gene linked to severe hypertension in pregnant women. The findings suggest that progesterone may exacerbate hypertension in pregnancy and could lead to clinical trials of salt restriction.
Researchers have solved the crystal structure of the cytoplasmic-facing portion of voltage-dependent potassium channels, controlling potassium flow out of cells. The findings shed light on the attachment mechanism of a key protein subunit to the channel's complex structure.
Researchers discovered that three fruit fly genes Scribble, Lethal giant larvae, and Discs-large are crucial for orderly epithelial cell growth. Mutations in these genes cause cells to become overgrown and form solid, tumor-like masses, similar to human malignant tumors.