The Sequella Global Tuberculosis Foundation has awarded $500,000 in grants to nine researchers working on innovative tuberculosis vaccines. The grants will fund projects using novel adjuvants, delivery mechanisms, and immunological approaches.
A new analysis found that population growth affects coastal ecosystems in a particularly damaging way, threatening endangered species. The study used data from the US Forest Service and climate data to identify areas most at risk.
Two new meta-analytic studies involving thousands of children and college students show that anxiety has increased substantially since the 1950s. Anxiety is associated with low social connectedness and high environmental threat, including media coverage and increasing individualism.
Researchers found that individuals with alcoholism exhibited prolonged reaction times and distraction in response to unexpected stimuli. Early onset of heavy drinking during adolescence was also linked to increased distractibility. The study suggests a determinable neurophysiological basis for distractibility in alcoholics.
Researchers can detect regional groundwater flow paths in the Eastern Snake River Plain aquifer using radiogenic isotope ratios. By analyzing variations in strontium-87 and strontium-86, they identified faster and slower flow zones aligned with sediment-filled valleys.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that unhappy marriages increase blood pressure in people with mild hypertension, while good marriages are protective. Participants who experienced marital discord had a statistically significant thickening of the heart's left ventricle after three years.
Richard S. Kornbluth, a UCSD professor, has received a grant to study a novel method for stimulating the immune system against TB microbes. His research aims to treat latent TB, preventing it from becoming deadly.
The NASA Earth Observing System (EOS) Global Change Media Directory 2001 features over 343 scientists from 50 disciplines, including climate change, natural hazards, ozone, water resources, and global warming. The directory contains a list of experts with complete contact information.
Researchers found that women hospitalized for heart disease can benefit from nurse-managed relapse prevention programs, which teach coping strategies and provide social support. The programs have been shown to be feasible and well-accepted by both patients and healthcare providers.
A new study found that people in unhappy relationships with mild high blood pressure experience sustained increases in blood pressure, while those in loving relationships show a decrease. The research suggests that marital distress may be a significant factor in raising blood pressure in vulnerable individuals.
The international Arabidopsis Genome Initiative has successfully completed the sequencing of the entire genome of Arabidopsis thaliana, a powerful tool in plant molecular biology. The study reveals vast chromosomal regions have been duplicated in the genome, and approximately 70% of genes can be functionally predicted.
Researchers aim to understand how sonar affects marine creatures by creating a sea sound simulator. The ESME project will analyze data from various organizations and develop mathematical models to predict environmental effects of different sonar types.
A team of scientists has successfully completed the sequencing of the Arabidopsis thaliana genome, paving the way for accelerated research in plant biology. The comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into gene annotation, functional categories, chromosomal architecture, and transposable elements.
Geologists propose that high-pressure ice could accumulate in planetary interiors during subduction, potentially influencing tectonic activity and volcanic eruptions on Earth and Mars. This process may also impact the planet's thermal balance, with changes in water state affecting dynamics and evolution.
Researchers analyzed data from over 500 cases of bladder cancer and found that smoking increases the risk. Coffee drinkers who also consumed tobacco were three times less likely to develop bladder cancer than non-coffee drinking smokers.
A recent study published by the Mayo Clinic has found that estrogen plays a crucial role in preventing bone resorption in elderly men. The research suggests that estrogen is essential for maintaining optimal bone metabolism in aging men, and highlights the importance of osteoporosis prevention for this demographic.
The targeted disruption of the PCI gene in mice leads to profound defects in sperm development and fertility. Human male infertility is also associated with a lack of PCI in seminal fluid, disrupting the balance of proteinases and proteinase inhibitors.
A study by Richard Weyers predicts that the US bridge transportation system alone will require a trillion dollar investment. The expert warns that epoxy-coated reinforcing steel is prone to corrosion, especially when used in saltwater environments.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that 78% of patients with IBS had excessive bacteria in the small intestine. Treatment with antibiotics reduced symptoms in most patients, suggesting a strong association between SIBO and IBS.
A study of British adults found that most men follow a beer and fast food diet, while women prefer the traditional British diet. The research also revealed significant regional and socioeconomic differences in dietary patterns, with those on low incomes and smokers consuming less healthy diets.
The Navy's BMP program has significantly reduced disparities in quality, cost, and reliability of acquired goods and services. More than 120 surveys have been conducted, 5,000 best practices documented, and an Internet site established to share knowledge and expertise with the business community.
In mice lacking b7 integrins, B cell-mediated secretion of antiviral IgA is lacking, and CD8+ T cells reach the intestinal epithelium in smaller numbers. Despite this, these cells are sufficient to clear rotavirus efficiently from the gut.
A large-scale epidemiology study found that patients with TIA are at high risk for stroke, cardiovascular events, and death within 90 days. The study identified five independent risk factors associated with increased stroke risk, suggesting that aggressive treatment and targeted therapies may reduce stroke incidence in TIA patients.
Researchers at Cornell University have successfully demonstrated hybrid nanodevices that can administer drugs and treatments using biomolecules and tiny nickel propellers. The devices are powered by ATP and can be assembled, maintained, and repaired using life's physiology.
Researchers analyze kinetics of amyloid b1-40 peptide clearance in mice brains, finding vascular transport is primary mechanism. They also suggest ApoE plays role in amyloid clearance pathway.
The team sequenced the genome of Arabidopsis thaliana, a flowering mustard, enabling scientists to study genes controlling basic plant functions. The knowledge gained will aid in improving crops like wheat, corn, and soybeans, as well as identifying genes in the human sequence.
Scientists have developed a unique way to study elephant seals using tiny sensing devices attached to their coats. These devices provide valuable information on sea temperatures and pressure, even at depths not normally reached by research ships or satellite sensing.
A study by Dr. William S. Breitbart found that clinical depression and hopelessness are key factors contributing to a patient's desire to die, even more important than physical pain. The study suggests that addressing psychological needs is crucial in minimizing the desire for death.
High-tech entrepreneur Michael J. Fitzpatrick and his wife, Patty, are donating $25 million each to establish new centers for advanced photonics at Stanford and Duke universities. The centers will attract top students and faculty, and facilitate industry partnerships to develop cutting-edge photonics technologies.
The completed Arabidopsis genome provides a roadmap for understanding plants to improve nutrition and health. Monsanto contributed to the effort through Cereon Genomics, releasing over 40,000 genetic markers that increased the resolution of genetic maps used by researchers.
A study found that pneumatic compression and extended anticoagulant drug therapy lower the risk of developing symptomatic blood clots after hip replacement surgery, with overweight patients most at risk. Pneumatic compression was effective in normal-weight patients, while warfarin therapy benefited all patients.
Researchers found a cellular signaling system that responds to THC and anandamide regulates sperm functions required for fertilization in humans. Heavy marijuana users may jeopardize fertility by overloading this natural signaling system.
Researchers found a way to prevent infectious malaria particles from bursting out of their protective sacs by blocking the activity of a protein-snipping enzyme called protease. This discovery suggests that protease inhibitors could be used to treat malaria infection and keep the infectious particles imprisoned until they deteriorate.
Researchers have discovered a new family of anti-viral compounds, guanidinoglycosides, that target the genetic structure of HIV essential to its replication. These compounds aim to prevent HIV from forming and spreading throughout the body by targeting the 'Rev' protein responsible for producing and spreading infected cells.
A University of Toronto professor's comprehensive review of research on media violence reveals no link between watching violent shows and aggressive behavior. The majority of studies found little to no evidence of a correlation between media violence exposure and increased violence in viewers.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found no rape charges involving drinks laced with club drugs on two Ontario campuses. The focus on date rape drugs distracts from real problems that lead to sexual assaults involving alcohol.
Perfectionists experience anxiety and depression when minor hassles pile up during the holidays. To mitigate this, Blankstein suggests planning ahead, involving others in tasks, and accepting help from loved ones. His study based on 443 university students provides valuable insights into perfectionism's impact on mental health.
A home-based primary care intervention program by the Department of Veterans Affairs significantly improved health-related quality of life and satisfaction for patients and their caregivers. The study found that Team-Managed Home-Based Primary Care (TM/HBPC) improved HR-QoL scales, caregiver outcomes, and reduced hospital readmissions.
Researchers compared whole genome activity in trisomy mice brains to normal mice detecting 25,000 genes active, with altered protein manufacturing found in trisomy mice. This study provides a preliminary look at how the whole genome operates in the brain and suggests protein manufacturing could be altered in Down syndrome patients.
A study published in Neurology found that long-term scuba diving has no effect on brain function or structure. The researchers tested 24 professional divers and 24 non-divers and found no significant differences in cognitive function or brain imaging.
Researchers have discovered evidence of agriculture dating back 1,400 years to the Princess Point people in southwestern Ontario. Well-preserved remnants of these ancient corn crops can still be found in the area, providing valuable insights into the transition from a hunting and gathering society to an agricultural one.
A large-scale study has found lamotrigine to be safe and effective in preventing episodes of mood swings in patients with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. The study, published in Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, showed that 41% of patients who received lamotrigine remained stable without relapse for six months, compared to 26% on placebo.
The complete genome sequence of Arabidopsis thaliana reveals clues to genetic behavior in plants and animals, with potential applications for agriculture and medicine. The public domain genome catalog provides a resource for scientists worldwide.
The study found that the VA home care model significantly improved health-related quality of life and caregiver satisfaction compared to private-sector home care. Terminally ill patients scored higher on several quality-of-life measures, while non-terminally ill patients showed significant increases in satisfaction with care.
A recent survey of high school athletes found that most users rely on friends for information, take unknown dosages, and experience minor side effects. The Mayo Clinic authors stress the need for larger studies to understand the long-term effects of creatine supplementation in this age group.
Researchers developed a new film that doubles its sensitivity to light without sacrificing picture quality. This technology enables higher-quality photos in low-light conditions and clearer enlargements.
Phosphorus is essential for life as a building block of nucleic acids and energy transfer molecules. New technologies help scientists study phosphorus cycling in soil, sea, and living organisms to better understand its role in the Earth system.
Researchers identified a two-step process by which malaria parasites break out of red blood cells, paving the way for developing clinically useful inhibitors. The discovery may lead to promising targets for drug development and improved understanding of the disease.
Marine scientists at UNC-CH and Duke University have launched a ferry-based water quality monitoring system in the Neuse River, generating valuable data for analysis. The system, called FerryMon, aims to evaluate and model how Pamlico Sound's ecosystem responds to human and natural impacts.
Researchers at UCLA and NASA are creating a robotic stepper device that uses precise measurements to help therapists monitor patients' progress in rehabilitation. The device could enable some wheelchair-bound individuals to learn to walk again or improve their walking ability, according to the researchers.
The UCSF Center aims to improve nursing care for older Americans by training more gerontological nurse scientists. The center will prepare nurses to educate future nurses and conduct research on aging health care policy.
A survey of black and white managers found that black managers report a slower rate of promotion and less psychosocial support than their white counterparts. The study suggests that organizations may be underutilizing qualified African-American employees, leading to resentment, boredom, stress, and turnover.
Researchers smash atomic nuclei together to observe phase transitions from solid to liquid to gas, using the NIMROD detector. The transition occurs for less than a billionth of a second and may be more gradual or sharp.
Researchers found that mouse allergen is a significant contributor to childhood asthma in urban areas, with 18% of children allergic to mice experiencing more severe asthma. Doctors recommend testing for mouse allergy and recommending aggressive extermination of mice.
A new type of cement developed by a Purdue doctoral student can cure in below-freezing temperatures, addressing a long-standing issue for the construction industry. The innovation has significant implications for reducing costs associated with heating construction sites.
A recent study found that newer anti-psychotic drugs like clozapine are more effective in treating first-time schizophrenia patients than traditional medications. The research also suggests a potential link between toxoplasmosis and poorer treatment outcomes.
Researchers developed a new MRI-guided catheter ablation technique to treat arrhythmia, reducing radiation exposure and improving procedure accuracy. The novel method uses MRI to guide radio frequency energy, creating precise lesions that block abnormal electrical pathways in heart muscle.
Researchers use geophysical surveys and underwater explorers to discover two long-lost cities off the Egyptian coast. The cities are believed to have sunk due to earthquakes, with some evidence suggesting land subsidence or tsunamis as contributing factors.
At least a third of the 1.6 million US nursing home residents may suffer from malnutrition or dehydration, according to UCSF researcher Kayser-Jones. Inadequate staffing and lack of individualized care contribute to this issue, with chronic conditions like depression exacerbating it.
A new clinical trial will compare the effectiveness of aspirin, clopidogrel, and warfarin in preventing heart attacks, strokes, and deaths in patients with chronic heart failure. The study, funded by the VA, will enroll 4,500 patients and provide insights into which medication is most effective, safe, and cost-efficient.