The University of Pennsylvania has launched TECH.21, a national technology lab focused on improving adult education and literacy. The initiative aims to provide near-term and long-range answers on the effectiveness of educational technologies, partnering with organizations across the US.
The NSF-funded Expresso project develops a computational system for microarray bioinformatics, enabling the automation of tedious methodological aspects. The project will be used for various experimental biology research projects, including Loblolly Pine tree drought resistance and human tissue analysis.
Researchers will study the health impact of chemicals in fish on refugees' children, as well as educate communities about safe fishing practices. The center aims to address the effects of combined PCB-methyl mercury exposure.
A University of Houston scientist has developed a DNA biochip that can screen for thousands of genetic mutations and diseases with one simple lab test. The device uses micromirrors to project light patterns onto the chip, triggering chemical reactions that build up individual DNA strands.
The three-year award aims to develop an integrated approach to reliable embedded systems, considering real-time issues and resource constraints. Embedded computers are critical in various industries, including medicine and transportation, and their failure can have widespread consequences.
The American Chemical Society recognizes Charles Martin Hall's groundbreaking work on producing aluminum metal from ore, revolutionizing modern life. The ceremony commemorates the commercialization of aluminum in North America, marking a significant milestone in the history of chemistry.
Scientists have discovered that a complex carbohydrate, RG-II, plays a crucial role in regulating plant growth by forming a network in the cell wall matrix through boron cross-links. The ability of RG-II to cross-link with boron enables normal plant expansion and prevents dwarfing in mutants without sufficient boron or fucose.
Preclinical studies demonstrated PT-141's ability to increase precopulatory sexual behaviors in female rodents. The peptide analog stimulated melanocortin receptors, which play a role in appetite and sexual arousal. Palatin expects PT-141 to offer a unique treatment for women with desire disorders.
Researchers found AAV DNA in 38% of men with abnormal semen analysis, but only 4.6% of those with normal semen. Further studies are needed to assess the link between AAV and infertility.
Scientists have identified a protein segment responsible for fibrous tissue growth leading to liver cirrhosis. They've developed a mutated version of the protein that blocks this process in mice, offering potential new hope for treating liver diseases.
Researchers found that exposure to short days triggers immune system enhancements in mice, which last for approximately 20 weeks. The immune system returns to its non-enhanced status after 32 weeks, even if short days remain. Melatonin levels are believed to play a key role in this process.
This study provides evidence for pathogen-specific gene responses in dendritic cells, offering insights into the tailored immune defense mechanism. The research uses DNA array technology to investigate how dendritic cells discriminate between pathogens and activates specific genes to initiate an immune response.
Prostate cancer screening is a contentious issue due to its potential impact on quality of life and the need for well-informed decision-making. The article highlights the limitations of current research, including the lack of data on risk-benefit analysis and the importance of avoiding unnecessary anxiety and treatment.
The 2002 OlympiYeda science competition brings together students from the US, Canada, England, and Australia to explore advanced police investigative techniques. Students will analyze forensics, DNA, and other disciplines to solve real-world cases.
Researchers found that an egg phospholipid interferes with cholesterol absorption in the intestine, lowering its uptake by the intestine. This may explain why some studies have found no association between egg intake and blood cholesterol levels.
Researchers found that the number of affected relatives is a stronger predictor of breast cancer risk than the age at diagnosis. Women with one or two affected relatives have significantly higher lifetime incidence rates (7.8% and 13.3%, respectively), while those with three affected relatives face the highest risk (21.1%).
A quadruplet pregnancy resulted from IVF and spontaneous conception, highlighting the risks associated with unprotected intercourse during ovarian stimulation. The woman gave birth to a boy and two girls with separate placentas and another girl with fused placenta after undergoing multiple pregnancies were deemed medically undesirable.
The Nenana Ice Classic provides a consistent and accurate dataset on river ice breakup timing, showing spring is coming earlier due to climate change. Researchers can use this historical record to analyze the effects of global warming on natural systems.
Researchers discovered that insulin sensitivity decreases by 32% among pubertal teens, while those who haven't started puberty experience increased sensitivity. The study suggests that changes during puberty contribute to lowered insulin sensitivity, with potential implications for preventing type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found that introducing charges for breast-cancer screening reduced attendance rates, particularly among younger women. In Turku, Finland, the introduction of a fee sent a message to the female population questioning regular mammography screening.
A new study from the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization and Mayo Clinic found that women in western Africa need more energy than men based on their work burden. The research determined that women worked two to three hours more per day than men, resulting in a 30% increase in energy needs.
Research finds HR practices enhance financial performance in British businesses, particularly in manufacturing sector. Companies with specialist personnel relations demonstrate strongest and most consistent association between profit and people management.
Researchers have found fossil skulls and partial skeletons of the giant Sarcosuchus imperator, which lived during the African Cretaceous period. The species is estimated to have reached its full size in around 50-60 years, suggesting a unique growth pattern that allowed it to attain massive proportions.
The HCRC combines faculty members, students, facilities, and expertise from several Virginia institutions to develop effective management strategies for horseshoe crabs. Researchers are conducting studies on population changes, biomedical industry impact, and shorebird interactions to inform conservation efforts.
The Fugu genome project has sequenced the entire genome of pufferfish using a whole-genome shotgun strategy, revealing approximately 365 million bases of genetic material. This will aid in identifying genes and regulatory sequences in the human genome, offering new insights into its structure.
The EU's database protection law could limit access to information, hindering scientific progress and innovation. The US Congress should consider the potential impact on trade and the economy before passing similar legislation.
Researchers have identified a new class of microRNAs in the roundworm C. elegans, which are tiny regulatory RNAs that can regulate gene expression without producing proteins. The study found dozens of these genes, including two that are also present in humans and could play a role in heart tissue development.
The Declaration of Helsinki 2000 has been criticized for its inadequate revision process, with only 2 weeks available for comment and critique. Key changes include guidance on monitoring and oversight, but also deficiencies in assessing risks and ambiguous wording that may affect application.
A study of severely obese children found abnormalities in their arteries, including stiffness and reduced elasticity, linked to heart disease and strokes. The authors warn that childhood obesity is a growing concern, translating to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality if left unchecked.
Researchers report a successful heroin-assisted treatment programme that reduces infections, mental disorders, and crime among chronically addicted heroin addicts. The six-year study found 86% of patients remained in the programme for three months, with improved social functioning and reduced illicit drug use.
Johns Hopkins faculty members Kay Redfield Jamison and Geraldine Seydoux have been awarded the MacArthur Foundation's 'genius' award for their innovative research in psychology and biology. Their work has significantly advanced understanding of mental health treatment, psychiatric disorders, and biological development.
Introgen's gene drug demonstrates tumor growth control by targeting the mda-7 gene, a key tumor suppressor. The study shows that replacing the mda-7 function in cancer cells can stop tumor growth and is promising for treating advanced melanoma.
Researcher David Tilman's study found that mixing multiple plant species leads to higher productivity, as each species brings unique traits for resource utilization. This principle can benefit various ecosystems, including forests and fisheries, by promoting a more diverse range of organisms.
Screening for colorectal cancer could lead to a 20% reduction in mortality rates, but its effectiveness depends on various factors. The UK government has set up pilot centres to evaluate the potential of faecal occult blood testing (FOBT) as a screening method.
Researchers developed a new algorithm called TwoDay, which uses vaginal dampness as a predictor of fertility. Women can reduce pregnancy risk by avoiding unprotected sex for 2 days after noticing vaginal dampness.
Physicists at Rice University have discovered a new class of critical point that marks a substantial advance in the study of phase transitions. They found that under suitable conditions, quantum critical metals contain 'critical local excitations' with very low energy, which could be applicable to a range of strongly correlated metals.
Researchers found that women taking oral contraceptives showed no change in their ability to detect odors, compared to the natural clime of the luteal phase. The study suggests that iatrogenic steroids may affect changes in smell sensitivity, and further research is needed to investigate this phenomenon.
Researchers aim to better understand cellular immunity in fighting Alzheimer's disease using a new mouse model jointly developed by USF and the University of Pennsylvania.
Researchers have identified 156 probable membrane proteins that could serve as new drug targets to combat antibiotic-resistant salmonella. The study also revealed two previously unknown gene clusters required for producing hair-like strands on the bacteria's surface.
The Mars Odyssey spacecraft has entered into orbit around Mars, providing a key communications link for the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) mission. The two Rovers will be able to upload data on mineral and element composition of rocks and soils to a state-of-the-art communications package.
Patients face increased risk of cancer progression due to inadequate staffing and technical support for advanced radiation therapies like IMRT and SRT. These high-tech treatments require specialized personnel and equipment, which can lead to longer waiting times and higher healthcare costs.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that adding a 'fuzz' of chemical chains to colloidal molecules can lead to the formation of predictable arrays of lattices. This entropy-driven phenomenon offers promise for designing new materials rationally rather than through trial and error.
A 42-month study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that sustained-release sodium fluoride safely reduces the risk for vertebral fractures and increases spinal bone mass in older women with osteoporosis. The treatment combination also reduced bone resorption when adequate calcium and vitamin D were provided.
A veteran chemistry teacher, Noel, has inspired students in Southern California with her hands-on approach to learning chemistry. Her curriculum is tailored to make science practical and fun, with a focus on real-world applications. She has also developed programs for teachers and led workshops on web-based instruction in chemistry.
Researchers believe that identifying specific genetic mutations could create more effective genotype profiles to determine individual risk of breast cancer. These profiles may be more accurate than current established clinical risk factors, which only predict but not identify high-risk individuals.
A study presented at the American College of Gastroenterology meeting found that Actonel 5mg daily significantly reduced vertebral fracture risk by 70% in patients on chronic glucocorticoid therapy. Patients who received calcium supplementation and vitamin D also experienced significant reductions in bone loss.
A recent survey found that patients with breast cancer in Europe have limited knowledge about innovative treatments like Herceptin and HER2 diagnostic testing. This lack of awareness can lead to women not making informed decisions about their treatment, highlighting the need for improved education and communication.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that anxious children with troubled families have poorer treatment outcomes. Children who felt their families were dysfunctional or their parents were stressed had poorer treatment outcomes. The study suggests including parents in the treatment process is crucial for effective therapy.
A recent meta-analysis shows a three to sixfold increased risk of non-cardia stomach cancer in H.pylori positive individuals. This suggests that at least half of all non-cardia cancer cases can be attributable to the infection, with potentially much more.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute and Max-Planck Research Units create crystals capturing individual complexes formed between bacterial ribosomes and antibiotics, revealing how these drugs shut off protein production. The findings may improve treatment strategies of existing drugs and lead to rational drug design.
Michael H. Dickinson, a UC Berkeley professor, has been awarded the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship for his groundbreaking research on insect flight. His work has led to breakthroughs in understanding how insects fly and maneuver, with potential applications in search and rescue, environmental monitoring, and remote sensing.
Research by Professor Anurag Agrawal reveals that plants can detect the difference between various insect species and respond accordingly, adjusting their growth, behavior, and chemical defenses. In turn, insects adapt their phenotype and physiology to better digest the plant, highlighting a flexible co-evolutionary strategy.
The HERA (HERceptin Adjuvant) Study aims to determine if earlier use of Herceptin increases disease-free survival for women with early breast cancer. The trial will recruit over 3000 patients across 600 trial sites globally.
Companies benefit from innovation and cost-savings in urban locations. Researchers found that 75% of innovations originate in cities and companies can share resources with related industries, leading to reduced shipping costs and improved product design.
A new randomized, controlled clinical trial found no significant difference in the incidence of stroke or death among postmenopausal women who received estrogen therapy. The study suggests that estrogen should not be prescribed for preventing a second stroke or death in these patients.
The TALENT trial assesses Tarceva's value in NSCLC treatment, showing promising anti-tumor activity. Additionally, a Phase Ib study evaluates Tarceva's feasibility in combination with chemotherapy for advanced breast cancer.
Norman Pace's innovative work on microbial diversity and biochemical reactions has revolutionized the field. He is one of 23 recipients of the prestigious 2001 MacArthur Fellowship, recognizing his significant contributions to science.
Researchers describe a new cause of respiratory failure in newborns and report a virulent Beijing strain causing a 'microepidemic' of TB on Gran Canaria Island. Exercise-induced oxidative stress may exacerbate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to studies published in the American Thoracic Society Journal.
Scientists develop 'smart' polymer drug carriers that target diseased cells, improving treatment outcomes for cancer, AIDS, and other diseases. The technology also enables controlled release of drugs over days, weeks, or years.
Researchers will study 12 astronaut crew members before, during and after space missions to assess cardiac mass, compliance and relaxation. Findings may help prevent cardiac atrophy and arrhythmias in individuals confined to long-term bed rest or with conditions associated with cardiac stiffness.