Scientists have discovered a wealth of green minerals, including olivine, on the Martian surface, indicating low levels of chemical weathering by water. This suggests that Mars has remained cold and dry for most of its geologic history, contradicting previous theories about a warm, wet past.
Researchers argue that current HIV prevention resource allocations are not consistent with trends in the spread of HIV disease. They propose a shift in focus from AIDS case-based reporting to sentinel surveillance systems, citing data showing declining HIV prevalence and incidence among heterosexuals and stable rates among MSMs.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories create a hopping robot that can leap up to 20 feet in the air and travel five miles on a single tank of gas. The robot's unique combustion-driven piston allows it to make corrections after each jump, making it suitable for challenging environments.
Researchers found that sleeping songbirds' neurons fire patterns identical to song production, rehearsing the neuronal activity patterns of song generation. This suggests that sleep helps birds learn songs by replaying and strengthening the pattern during undisturbed sleep.
A large study of 381 postmenopausal women found no association between high fat intake and increased estrogen levels, contrary to long-held assumptions. The researchers concluded that reducing fat intake to lower hormone levels is unlikely to be a useful strategy in preventing breast cancer.
A 300-year record of oceanic nitrogen in Alaskan lake bottoms suggests a need for flexible management policies that account for climate and lake nutrient levels. The study found population swings related to known climate changes, with the biggest decline occurring in the 20th century.
A team of Stanford geophysicists used satellite radar images to detect rising volcanoes in the Galápagos Islands, a sign that they may erupt soon. The study found four out of six volcanoes on Isabela Island had risen in size over a seven-year period.
Researchers aim to develop new techniques to selectively stimulate thalamic neurons and improve therapeutic efficacy of deep brain stimulation. The team will use computer-based neural models to describe stimulation phenomena and validate them in the clinic.
Scientists analyzed the magnetic field of the ALH84001 Martian meteorite using a new microscope, revealing that its interior remained cool enough to support life. The findings suggest that microbial life may have traveled from Mars to Earth via the meteorite, but do not prove it.
Researchers at UCSF have identified a fundamental decision-making unit in cells that integrates multiple signals to initiate cell movement. This protein, N-WASP, relies on cooperative action between two signal molecules to trigger actin polymerization and drive cell movement.
Researchers identified a protein in vertebrates that detects cell salt concentration and regulates its balance. The discovery may lead to improved treatment of kidney disorders and high blood pressure.
Researchers used gene therapy to deliver GDNF directly to the brain cells of monkeys, resulting in a dramatic increase in dopamine production and prevention of disease progression. The treatment also reversed functional deficits and symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease.
Robert C. Gallo and Luc Montagnier receive Spain's top science award for their groundbreaking work on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of HIV/AIDS. The Prince of Asturias Award recognizes their originality and relevance to the scientific community.
Researchers at University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics successfully completed the first full-scale test of polarization smoothing on the world's most powerful laser, Omega. The technique generated 70% more fusion neutrons than without and moves closer to self-sustaining fusion.
A new molecular diagnostics laboratory at Virginia Tech aims to investigate the genetic foundations of disease in horses and its implications for humans. The lab will focus on four major projects, including studying environmental toxins, COPD, osteoarthritis, and diabetes-related complications.
NASA's 2nd Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle Program aims to develop a privately owned, commercially competitive reusable launch vehicle. Proposals are due November 27, with cost proposals due December 4, and are expected to award multiple contracts totaling $900 million next spring.