A UCSF study analyzed conflict of interest policies at top US medical schools, finding 'loopholes' in disclosure and conflict management. The researchers suggest prohibiting investigators from holding stock or decision-making positions in companies that may be affected by the trial.
The Max Planck Society awarded twelve scientists with the Research Award for International Cooperation in 2000, recognizing outstanding scientific achievements. The prize goes to four foreign award winners and eight German researchers across five disciplines, facilitating collaboration and new discoveries.
A team of researchers at NIH has developed a novel vaccine that prevents Ebola virus infection in monkeys, offering a promising new approach to protecting humans. The vaccine induces strong anti-Ebola immune responses and protects against lethal doses of the virus.
Steaming ginseng at higher temperatures can boost its potency by multiplying antioxidant qualities eight times and relaxing blood vessels up to 32 times. The hotter steam produces optimal biological activity from the same ginseng used in normal supplements, amplifying certain ginsenosides.
A group of scientists, lawyers, conservationists, economists, and policymakers came together at Stanford to discuss novel ways to market ecosystem services. The workshop aimed to protect the ecosystem by putting an economic value on its less tangible services, such as water purification and flood control.
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh have engineered a novel gene therapy to treat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a genetic disorder causing progressive muscle weakening and death. The mini-gene AAV vector effectively delivers functional dystrophin protein, correcting muscle dysfunction and degeneration.
A University of Maine team found that zeolite and sunlight can rapidly break down pesticides in contaminated water. The researchers used malathion, a toxic insecticide linked to lobster deaths, to test the method.
A recent study by Virginia Tech researchers reveals that despite corrosion, the lead in bullets and shot remains trapped in mineral coatings, reducing environmental risk at shooting ranges. High concentrations of lead have been found on ranges worldwide, raising concerns about toxicity and environmental impact.
Studies found that up to 70% of stream respiration and 10-50% of nitrate uptake occur in hyporheic zones, which retain more nitrogen. This process may be a crucial player in global nitrogen dynamics.
Researchers at Imperial College will examine the science behind stem cells and their potential for regenerative medicine, including treatments for various diseases. The symposium will feature world leaders in stem cell science, providing a comprehensive background to the field.
Researchers at UNC-CH have identified a small group of 30 genes that respond similarly to different conditions, providing a potential universal switch for the immune system among many plant species. This discovery could lead to engineered plants with improved disease resistance and increased crop yields.
A study found that people with late-onset dementia had lower intelligence scores as children compared to those without the disease. The researchers identified 59 patients with early-onset dementia and a comparison group, suggesting that lower childhood intelligence may be a risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease.
The Fogarty International Center has awarded $9 million to U.S. universities to support international training and research in population-related sciences, focusing on reproductive processes, contraceptive development, and demographic studies. This funding will help address global population growth trends and health disparities in deve...
Researchers at Dendreon Corporation have developed a method for generating enhanced immune responses with potentially important implications for therapeutic cancer vaccines. The approach involves modifying antigens to optimize uptake and processing by dendritic cells, resulting in significant cytotoxic T-cell activity.
The unprecedented fire season in southern Africa produced a thick haze layer that affected regional air quality and provided valuable data for climate change research. Scientists were able to track the movement of the haze layer, measure its impact on clouds, and investigate its effect on greenhouse gases.
A prolonged period of unusually cold water off Brazil is causing Argentine penguins to venture further north in search of food. This has led to a surge in nest failures at Punta Tombo reserve due to the long absence of adult males returning to provide for their chicks.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified perilipin as a crucial protein that protects fat cells from breakdown. By eliminating this protein, mice lost weight despite consuming more food and gained increased muscle mass. The findings hold promise for developing new anti-perilipin drugs to combat obesity.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that a commonly used HIV drug, AZT, does not prevent virus-related damage to the thymus in young cats infected with FIV. The study suggests that antiviral therapy may need to be combined with other treatments to restore thymic function and protect against immune system problems.
A long-term study of 62 white female participants aged 12-20 found that oral contraceptive pill (OCP) use did not impact their peak bone mass or hip bone mineral density, contrary to theoretical concerns. The findings are significant as they address the needs of young women who are concerned about body changes during adolescence.
Scientists have developed a new method to date marine animals beyond mollusks, using brachiopods to reconstruct the Earth's environment over thousands of years. This breakthrough provides a unique record of past environmental changes and human effects on the oceans.
Researchers create method to determine subatomic particle mass based on speed of material streaming from a supernova, which could improve nuclear reaction understanding and dark matter detection. The technique hinges on the formation of black holes in about half of observed supernovas, allowing for precise timing of neutrino arrival.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that exposed cats ate more and seemed more comfortable in a hospital than those not exposed to the pheromone. The study used synthetic FFP to signal comfort and amicability, showing an anxiety-reducing effect on some cats.
A study by UCLA researchers found that androstenedione supplements can contain a contaminant linked to banned steroid nandrolone. The study tested 37 healthy men, revealing that 20 of their urine samples contained enough 19-norandrosterone to test positive for steroid use.
A study published by Indiana University School of Medicine found that men and women process language in different ways, with men using only the left side of their brain. The research may have implications for understanding how men and women recover from stroke and brain tumors, as well as improving imaging technologies.
Women are twice as likely to experience migraine without aura during the first two days of their menstrual cycle. The study also found a higher risk of migraine in the two days before menstruation begins and a lower risk around ovulation.
A pilot study found that an implanted 'brain pacemaker' for epilepsy may cause mild increases in sleep apnea, a condition where breathing is disrupted during sleep. Researchers are investigating ways to fine-tune the device to reduce these effects and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Georgia are developing two prevention programs aimed at reducing alcohol and substance use among rural African-American children. The projects, led by Dr. Gene Brody and Dr. Velma McBride Murry, will focus on strengthening family and cognitive processes to foster competencies and deter substance abuse.
A new book series, interCONNECTIONS, aims to capture the attention of girls ages 8-11 and maintain their interest in math and science. The series features interactive, modular toys/boardgames that bring intangible concepts to life through metaphors and physical connections.
A new study found that physicians' lobbying efforts in Congress primarily focus on Medicare reimbursement, managed care reform, and biomedical research funding. Public health issues like access to care for the uninsured, tobacco control, abortion rights, and violence prevention are rarely discussed.
A study by researchers at NIH has identified the HOXA1 gene as a potential contributor to autism in a large number of cases. The gene plays a crucial role in early brain development, and variants of the gene were found to be present in nearly 40% of individuals with autism.
A new healthcare team model, called Virtual Integrated Practice (VIP), aims to improve the management of chronic diseases in geriatric patients. The study uses team principles from the business world and will link patients and doctors with a team of health professionals using technology such as cellular phones and the Internet.
Fluoroscopy-guided intervention procedures can cause tissue damage due to continuous x-ray exposure. Guidelines aim to prevent this by modifying equipment and educating practitioners on efficient use.
The number of obese Canadian children has surpassed double since 1981, according to a study. The poor dietary habits learned in childhood come home to roost later in life, and physical inactivity is a major contributor to healthcare costs, with reducing it by just 10% potentially saving $150 million annually.
A survey of 915 physicians found that over a third (34%) had no regular source of care, with pediatricians and psychiatrists more likely to have a provider. Those without a regular doctor were less likely to receive flu shots or cancer screenings.
The US Department of Energy has awarded Amalgamated Research, Inc. $1.9 million to improve biomass refinery efficiency and reduce capital equipment costs in Idaho. The project aims to develop a new biomass refining system for purifying and separating biomass subcomponents, enabling the production of fuels and chemicals.
A 70-year-old woman developed a glioblastoma multiforme, a highly aggressive brain cancer, 7 years after undergoing radiosurgery to treat a benign tumor. The case report highlights the rare but potential risk of radiation-induced malignancy following this procedure.
A study of over 17,150 male physicians found that taller men and those with higher waist-to-hip ratios were at increased risk of developing cataracts. The authors suggest a possible genetic link to height and abdominal adiposity as contributing factors.
A study by Dr. Adam Drewnowski suggests that using Mediterranean cuisine techniques can help overcome bitterness in vegetables, revealing potential health benefits.
Researchers found that interrupting therapy in rhesus macaques with HIV led to a vigorous immune response and controlled virus levels. The study's results suggest patients might be able to take fewer drugs, stimulating the immune system to better control the virus.
Vitamin D deficiency is common among elderly community-living women, associated with higher levels of disability. Elderly black women are at significant risk due to lower cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D3, while obesity is linked to deficiency in less-disabled women.
A pooled analysis of randomized controlled trials found that zinc supplementation reduced the duration of diarrheal episodes in infants in developing countries by 16% overall. The study also showed a significant reduction in treatment failure or death rates, particularly among malnourished male children.
A study found that household exposure to passive smoke is associated with lower serum concentrations of carotenoids and other micronutrients in non-smokers. This depletion may be due to cigarette smoke exposure, rather than shared inadequate diets, suggesting a possible causal link between passive smoking and nutrient deficiencies.
Eight-month-old babies demonstrate ability to bind attributes to form a whole object, as seen in the Kanizsa Square test. This skill, previously thought to develop later in childhood, reveals insights into early infant development and cognitive processing.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories discovered that dancing tin crystals can convert chemical energy into forward motion, overcoming friction between tin and the copper surface. This phenomenon could lead to surprisingly efficient nanomotors that can be controlled externally and refueled.
A comprehensive study found a high prevalence of pelvic floor disorders in the general population, affecting up to 50% of older women. The research highlights the need for increased medical attention and awareness about these often-stigmatized conditions.
Biomolecular motors powered by ATP and spinning nickel propellers have been successfully built and tested, enabling the creation of ultrasmall robotic devices. The technology holds promise for developing nanonurses and smart pharmacies that can detect chemical signals from body cells and precisely dispense drugs.
Researchers have identified a new fast serotonin receptor in the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans that can inhibit neuronal activity. This discovery raises hopes for developing new treatments for disorders caused by serotonin imbalance, such as mood disorders and obesity.
In a study on arctic ground squirrels, researchers found that females severely reduced reproduction and most died over winter when populations reached maximum capacity. This regulation helps control population growth and maintain survival rates.
Researchers have successfully cloned a female adult cell and reset its developmental clock, resetting X-inactivation. The study provides the first molecular evidence for the egg's ability to reprogram an adult cell back to its embryonic state.
Scientists at the University of Michigan have discovered that Yersinia pestis, the bacterium that causes bubonic plague, uses an ancient agent to sever vital cell signaling pathways. This mechanism is shared by both plant and animal bacteria, including those that cause black rot and other diseases.
A recent CSIRO Australia trial found genetically modified lupins increased wool growth by eight percent and live weight gain by seven percent in Merino sheep. The modified protein stimulates the production of sulfur amino acids, essential for growth, making it a valuable boost to Australian wool production.
Researchers have developed a method to directly observe three-dimensional nanostructured glass, which has the potential to solve macro-level problems in technology and the environment. The material can be used for various applications such as optical fibers, coatings for computer chips and sensors for detecting biotoxins.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered a link between a bladder gene and vesicoureteral reflux, a condition that causes urine to flow backward into the kidneys. The study suggests earlier detection and treatment of the condition could prevent kidney failure.
A team of Virginia Tech chemists and colleagues have created a family of fullerene molecules that break the sacrosanct isolated-pentagon rule. The new structure has only 68 carbon atoms, which are stabilized by three metal atoms, allowing for a molecular cluster of four atoms to be encapsulated.
Arthur Gossard, a professor at UCSB, has received the James C. McGroddy Prize for his contributions to molecular beam epitaxy, a key technology for compound semiconductors used in wireless and fiber-optic devices. The prize honors his work on device applications and physical understanding of low-dimensional structures.
Healthcare personnel working in poorly ventilated general hospital rooms were at risk for sero-conversion of tuberculosis. Improving ventilation to at least two air exchanges per hour can help prevent this risk. Additionally, a program using an educational videotape and brochure increased colon cancer screening rates among patients.
A group of scientists and policymakers are convening a conference to develop a federal science policy blueprint that addresses critical national issues. The conference aims to link basic science research with vital areas of public interest, such as education, energy, and global climate change.
The new guidelines recommend making both Zyban and nicotine replacement therapy available on NHS prescription to help smokers quit. The guidelines also suggest that hospitals should become totally smoke-free zones and provide training and resources for healthcare professionals to support patients in quitting smoking.
Neurons control connection strength by removing or inserting receptors for glutamate, a key neurotransmitter. The discovery reveals a 'shuttle' system that rapidly regulates receptor numbers, allowing neurons to adjust connection strength.
A study conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital found that over 90% of young women with anorexia nervosa suffered from significant bone loss. The research highlights the importance of regaining and maintaining a healthy weight in preventing or reducing bone loss.