Researchers successfully differentiated human placental cells by adjusting gap size in a fibrous-bed bioreactor, mimicking the body's natural process. The breakthrough may aid organ production for transplantation and has implications for tissue engineering and cancer research.
Researchers found that combretastatin A-4 prodrug significantly enhances the effectiveness of standard chemotherapy agents in laboratory animals. Combining the drug with chemotherapy resulted in a 10 to 500 times increase in tumor cell death, compared to using chemotherapy alone.
New polymers enable polymeric electro-optic modulators to translate electrical signals into optical signals at rates of up to 100 gigabytes per second, increasing information-processing speeds by 10 times those of current electronic devices.
A Harvard study challenges conventional wisdom, suggesting that online retailers can charge higher prices due to reduced price competition. The study reveals that consumer loyalty and convenience of the internet enable firms to increase prices, leading to higher profits.
BioNumerik reports success with its engineered cancer agents, demonstrating reduced toxicity while preserving antitumor activity. The company plans to initiate Phase 3 trials for BNP7787 and expand clinical trials for Karenitecin BNP1350.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has launched a new traveling science laboratory that brings state-of-the-art equipment and teaching tools to North Carolina schools lacking resources. The bus features equipment for wet lab experiments, Internet exploration, and curriculum materials.
Adding acetone to composting method dissolves chunks of carcinogenic substance, allowing microbes to break it down. Microbial populations thrive under modified conditions, degrading explosive in just one day.
Scientists have identified a family of candidate genes in humans and mice that code for receptors detecting bitter and sweet tastes. The discovery provides new tools to trace the wiring of the taste perception pathways into the brain, shedding light on how we perceive different tastes.
Researchers have created a device that converts electric signals into optical transmissions at 100 gigabytes per second, eliminating download time and increasing efficiency. The breakthrough technology has the potential to transform fiber optic telecommunications and enable applications such as aircraft navigation and smart cars.
Capuchin monkeys have been found to cooperate in obtaining food by working together and sharing the rewards. This study by Frans de Waal and Michelle Berger suggests that reciprocity is a fundamental feature of human society and has implications for understanding evolutionary cooperation.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have designed a new type of molecule that exhibits wide-spectrum antimicrobial activity, including effectiveness against resistant bacteria. The synthetic beta-peptides mimic naturally-occurring peptides found in nature and have shown promise in laboratory tests.
A University of California, Berkeley scientist challenges the central tenet of cancer research that genetic mutations drive cancer. Instead, he proposes that aneuploidy, chromosomal duplication, is the primary cause of cancer. Experimental evidence supports this theory, showing cancer cells exhibit massive protein expression changes.
The Ulysses spacecraft detected a dramatic change in solar wind and magnetic field lines, revealing comet tails that are likely billions of miles long. This finding opens up new ways to study comets and gain insights into the solar system's birth.
Researchers studied Atlanta, Salt Lake City, and other cities using Landsat data, finding that adding trees and light-colored roofs can cool city temperatures. Computer models also simulated land use changes to predict stormwater runoff patterns and urban growth in abandoned strip mines.
A new study found that soy foods can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease without stimulating harmful hormone activity. The research involved two groups of people on low-fat diets with or without soy, revealing no evidence to support claims of estrogenic effects.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins University and George Washington University found 40 cases of tumors in sharks and related fishes, including chondromas. The study casts doubt on the effectiveness of shark cartilage as a cancer cure, highlighting potential risks to patients and marine ecosystems.
Damage to nerves caused by injury can lead to slow and poor recovery. However, a new study suggests that electrical stimulation can enhance nerve regeneration, allowing for faster healing in just two to three weeks. Researchers hope to test this method on people with nerve damage.
A study found that women are three times more likely to have severe arthritis but less likely to discuss joint replacement surgery with their doctors. Women experience worse symptoms and greater disability due to arthritis, yet they receive fewer replacements.
Researchers found that bypass surgery significantly reduces mortality rates for diabetic patients undergoing revascularization procedures. The study, BARI, compared coronary artery bypass graft surgery with percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in patients with multivessel coronary artery disease.
A new study has found that beta radiation treatment can prevent repeat blockages in heart vessels following angioplasty. The treatment was tested on patients who underwent balloon angioplasty for coronary artery disease and showed a significant reduction in recurrent blockage rates.
A study of 74 healthy African-American men found that hard-driving personalities can be beneficial when accompanied by job control and a fair amount of advancement opportunities. In contrast, those with little control over their workload and futures experienced increased cortisol levels, a stress hormone linked to health risks.
A new study reveals that the LDL receptor plays a key role in reducing the production of LDL cholesterol and removing it from the blood, providing insights into familial hypercholesterolemia. The research also explains how statins lower blood cholesterol levels by increasing LDL receptor activity.
Researchers at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver developed a care plan to address patients who frequently visit emergency departments with conditions treatable in community settings. The program involved social workers, physicians, and nurses, reducing hospital visits by 71%.
Researchers at UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center identified genetic regions that confer susceptibility and resistance to a human-like skin cancer in mice. The findings suggest that mouse studies may reveal genetic markers of susceptibility and resistance to cancer in humans, which could impact patient-specific treatment modalities.
A $11-million grant will support a research team in understanding how genetic variation affects the response to anti-cancer drugs. The team aims to develop personalized dosing strategies to increase treatment efficacy while reducing side effects.
Researchers found that Losartan reduced fatty streak development in monkeys fed a high-fat diet by 50%, suggesting the drug's potential in preventing atherosclerosis. The study suggests treating hypertension and cholesterol together may improve heart attack prevention statistics.
A study by Cornell University researchers found that managed honey bees pollinate over 50 crops worth $14.6 billion per year, a 36.3% increase from 1989. The contribution of honey bees to US agriculture is crucial for food production and security.
A team of scientists at UC San Francisco is launching a four-year research project to identify genetic variations that affect how people respond to drugs. The study aims to revolutionize drug design and testing, boost treatment effectiveness, and reduce side effects.
A recent study found that nearly half of undergraduate students (18-19 years old) had fantasized about committing homicide recently. The study suggests that homicidal fantasies may be a relatively normal phenomenon with roots in the evolutionary history of the species, rather than psychopathology.
A new study found that smokers carrying the gene GSTT1 face almost twice the risk of heart problems as non-smokers. The study analyzed data from over 14,000 participants and found that individuals without the gene had a 60% greater risk of heart problems if they smoked.
A new prototype vaccine activates cytotoxic T-lymphocytes to destroy cancer cells using telomerase as a target. The vaccine has shown promise in both human and transgenic mice, indicating potential effectiveness against various types of cancer.
Scientists have discovered a new mechanism for coronal mass ejections, which are large-scale eruptions on the Sun that can cause geomagnetic storms and disrupt power generation. Shock waves generated by solar flares in other regions of the sun can cause these eruptions, contrary to previous thought.
The NIH has awarded nine grants totaling $12.8 million to investigate the role of genetics in determining how medicines work in the human body and what side effects people may experience. These studies aim to develop more personalized medicine approaches through pharmacogenetics research.
A series on rheumatology highlights key steps for diagnosing arthritis and managing related conditions. The series aims to address the growing need for accurate diagnoses and treatment plans in an aging population.
A team of Australian National University scientists has developed a type of semiconductor laser with world-leading performance, which can speed up information transport through optical fibers and improve real-time communication. The technology has attracted international commercial interest, including a Taiwanese company investing $50 ...
Two CIIT researchers were honored for their scholarship by the Society of Toxicology. Dr. Li You was recognized for his work on the effect of DDE, while Dr. Thomas Gelzleichter received an award for his study on inhaled ceramic fibers. Additionally, CIIT Predoctoral Fellow Amy Collins Licata won a student award for her presentation on ...
Researchers found calcified plaque in 7.5% of participants, doubling risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to those without plaque. This discovery moves towards using panoramic dental radiographs as a screening tool for all cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center have successfully conducted a Phase I clinical trial on combretastatin A4 phosphate, a vascular targeting agent. The study found that patients with solid tumors were able to safely tolerate the treatment and showed evidence of decreased blood flow to the tumor.
Researchers discovered that adding carbonate to cow manure can effectively kill dangerous microbes, such as E. coli O157:H7. The treatment is estimated to cost less than $10 per year per cow and could help prevent water contamination.
The Montreal Prostate Cancer Model estimates high disease-specific survival rates following prostatectomy, with comparable results to SEER data. The model also forecasts significant economic burdens of prostate cancer in Canada, totaling $9.76 billion over a lifetime.
A study of 840 men found 32.3% suffered from urinary incontinence, affecting social relationships and physical activity. Whole walnuts were shown to further reduce bad cholesterol in a dietary study. Medical ethicists recommend including spiritual care in treatment plans.
A University of Illinois study found that over 50% of severely mentally ill Asian Americans sought help at culturally competent clinics within six months. Early treatment can improve outcomes, but educating community members about available services is crucial.
The Johan Skytte Prize recognizes Professor Scharpf's work on multilevel governance, European Union legitimacy, and the use of game theory. He proposes limiting federal authority to market and currency questions to increase the union's effectiveness and legitimacy.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a mathematical model that predicts when steel-making nozzle clogs will occur, enabling manufacturers to take action before production is halted. The model uses principles of fluid dynamics and heat transfer to simulate the steel-making process and provides accurate predictions compare...
The National Emphysema Treatment Trial (NETT) is enrolling patients with severe emphysema to compare the outcomes of those receiving maximum medical therapy versus those undergoing lung volume reduction surgery. The study aims to assess factors such as exercise ability, longevity, and related issues in both groups.
Researchers have developed a method to modify an allergen, like ragweed, into a vaccine that induces protective molecules, type 1 helper T cells (Th1), inhibiting the allergic inflammatory reaction. The new vaccine, named AIC, was found to be 180 times less allergenic than a licensed product in human studies.
Oregon Health & Science University researchers will study why patients choose to die at home, exploring factors like decision-making process and patient pain concerns. The study aims to enhance understanding of the factors affecting end-of-life care delivery.
A survey of nearly 600 primary care physicians found that most rely mostly on referral and counseling for depressed kids, but some use new antidepressants like Prozac. The study highlights the need for more research and training on recognizing and treating childhood depression.
The UK is in danger of missing out on fuel cells, solar energy, and the next generation of cleaner cars due to lack of innovation, experts warn. Government needs to set tough strategic goals and regulation to guide and enable businesses to adopt greener management.
Researchers found a key cell gene that aids viruses in multiplying by commandeering host cell machinery. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches and antiviral drugs effective against various RNA viruses.
A National Jewish Medical and Research Center study, funded by the EPA, investigates the effectiveness of HEPA filters and electrostatic air filtration systems in removing allergens and irritants from homes of children with asthma. The study aims to determine if these interventions can help lower asthma severity in some children.
A new study by Wake Forest researchers found that women under 50 with severe psoriasis are often prescribed less effective treatments due to the risk of birth defects, while men receive more powerful drugs. The study also noted that women over 50 tend to receive stronger treatments, highlighting a gender gap in treatment options.
A recent study by Dr. Andreas Constantinou suggests that soy protein mixes without isoflavones may be more effective in reducing mammary gland tumors in rats than previously thought. The study also found that the anti-tumor ingredient in soy works by increasing detoxification enzymes that eliminate free radicals.
The SPHERES project aims to test formation flying technologies and measure key parameters in microgravity. The mini satellites, the size of volleyballs, are being tested aboard NASA's KC-135 airplane, allowing researchers to validate control algorithms, metrology, and autonomy.
Researchers have observed RNAP molecules possessing intrinsic transcription rates and propensities to pause and stop. The study provides new insights into how genetic expression in cells may be regulated, suggesting a kinetic competition between transcription and pausing.
University of Illinois researchers have developed a theory that explains how glassy materials behave and predict the speed of molecular motion changes with temperature. The theory, based on thermodynamic measurements of heat capacity, provides a universal form for expressing glass transition phenomena.
Researchers found greater numbers of estrogen receptors on lung cancer cells, suggesting a role for this hormone in enhancing tumor growth. Estrogen was shown to increase cell division and tumor growth in both cultured lung cancer cells and animal models.