Anthony Auerbach, a University at Buffalo biophysicist, has been awarded a $2.7 million Jacob Javits Neuroscience Investigator Award to continue his distinguished research on cell communication and synapses. His focus will be on understanding acetylcholine receptors, proteins that facilitate chemical messages across brain synapses.
Lawanna Harris, a NASA engineering technician, is working on a rocket-based combined cycle engine to make space travel more affordable. Her research goal is to reduce the cost of payload from $10,000 to hundreds of dollars per pound within 25 years.
A new mathematical technique developed by Purdue University engineer James Longuski has significantly reduced the time required to plan space missions. By using a graphical representation of possible paths and automating calculations with software program STOUR, engineers can quickly identify optimal routes for spacecraft travel.
A University of Alberta researcher found that childhood trauma has risen markedly faster for girls than boys, leading to increased rates of depression and potentially unhealthy adulthood. The study's findings suggest a link between childhood trauma and later difficulties, including psychiatric symptoms and social problem behavior.
The Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center will develop a six-teraflop terascale system, making it the most powerful available for public research. The system, part of NSF's PACI program, aims to facilitate progress in various fields, including climate change and weather forecasting.
Researchers found that a specific orbital alignment in 2014 provides an ideal escape route back to Earth in case of an emergency on the way to Mars. This trajectory is only possible within a few days of January 14, 2014, making it a critical launch window for future human missions.
The American Chemical Society is hosting a master class on the chemistry of dietary supplements, shedding light on new findings about quality control and herbal treatments. The class will feature experts discussing conjugated linoleic acid, Ginkgo biloba products, and collaborations with native healers.
Researchers found a genetic signature that divides patients with advanced melanoma into subgroups, offering clues to the disease's biology. This discovery could lead to more accurate prognosis and tailored therapies.
A University of Florida study found that women who learn hypnosis before delivering babies suffer fewer complications, need less medication, and have healthier babies. Hypnotized patients with hypertension also made lifestyle improvements to lower blood pressure.
A UI-led study found that flavopiridol, a cancer treatment, blocks HIV-1 replication in cell culture experiments at very low concentrations. This suggests the drug may have anti-HIV properties and could be a potential treatment for AIDS.
Several mesocarnivore species, including marten, fisher, and red fox, have staged remarkable recoveries in the Northeast. However, wolves and cougars, two large predators native to the region, continue to face challenges due to persecution and habitat loss.