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.