Cornell University researchers will create block copolymer electro-optical structures using low-cost materials and simple processing steps. The project aims to revolutionize routine lithographic nanopatterning and integrate soft materials onto silicon chips.
Researchers found that aggressive melanoma cells leave behind a molecular track in the extracellular matrix that contains information and cues. These cues can cause less aggressive tumor cells to become more aggressive when they interact with the same matrix.
Scientists have identified an important parallel between C. elegans and human NMD pathways, revealing a potential therapeutic strategy for masking genetic mutations. Inactivation of the human homolog of the C. elegans smg-1 gene inhibits NMD, allowing truncated proteins to accumulate and potentially compensate for genetic disorders.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute is awarding $1 million each to 20 researchers who plan to revolutionize undergraduate science education. The selected HHMI Professors will receive grants to apply their creativity and enthusiasm to teaching, with a focus on fostering interdisciplinary research teams and mentorship.
A Mayo Clinic study found that over one-third of adults aged 45+ had plaque buildup on their aortic valves, increasing the risk of hardening and narrowing of the aorta. Lifestyle changes can help prevent life-threatening complications. Risk factors include male gender, high blood pressure, obesity, and elevated homocysteine levels.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered a marine compound, pateamine A, with immunosuppressive properties. The study could lead to the development of new immunosuppressive drugs, and pharmaceutical companies are already inquiring about licensing the compound.
Scientists have produced new adult neurons from precursor cells using a growth factor, which could potentially treat neurological diseases. The technique, supported by the NIH, involves introducing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) into the adult rat brain.
Researchers identified BONZAI1 as a central player in Arabidopsis plant growth homeostasis. The gene influences plant size at different temperatures, with mutant cells failing to grow normally at cooler temps. A related protein, BAP1, was also found to interact with BONZAI1 and is more highly expressed at lower temps.
A recent study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that a lower dose of mifepristone is as effective as higher doses when used with misoprostol for early pregnancy termination. The study showed that 72 out of 80 women experienced complete abortions after using the lower dose regimen.
Researchers propose allowing everyone over 62 to purchase Medicare at a community-rated premium, with subsidies for low-income individuals and tax-free savings accounts. The plan aims to make pre-medicare insurance more affordable without increasing government spending.
A UCSF/Harvard study analyzed 13,693 government inspections of nursing homes and found that for-profit facilities were cited for deficient care 46.5% more frequently than non-profits. For-profit homes had significantly lower staff-to-patient ratios, leading to concerns about the impact on patient care.
Researchers confirm a high degree of asymmetry between matter and antimatter, consistent with the Standard Model Theory. The finding sheds light on why the universe is made mostly of matter.
Professor Terrill Cool's research uses flame-sampling photoionization mass spectrometry to detect key-reaction intermediates in laboratory flames. The new facility will produce average photon fluxes 100 times larger than current sources, enabling more accurate predictive models of combustion kinetics.
A new model predicts a mega-tsunami could devastate the US coastline, with wave heights reaching 100 meters on the West Saharan shore and 50 kilometers high in Florida. The energy released would be equivalent to the electricity consumption of the entire United States in half a year.
The University of Maine will receive DuPont's papermaking technology, which aims to increase efficiency and environmental performance in paper mills. The school will conduct research to implement the technology at an industrial scale.