Researchers created a new strategy to remove arsenic from soil by inserting genes from the common bacterium Escherichia coli into a member of the mustard family, Arabidopsis. This enables the plant to tolerate arsenic and transport it to its leaves in a form that is less biologically available.
A study by University of California - Irvine researchers found that high manganese levels in soy milk formula may cause behavioral problems and lowered dopamine levels in infant rats, similar to those seen in ADHD. The study suggests a potential correlation between high manganese doses and attention deficit disorder.
Unemployment can start a vicious cycle of depression, loss of personal control, decreased emotional functioning, and poorer physical health. After re-employment, 71% of job seekers still reported negative effects, highlighting the need for mental health support to improve re-employment chances.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine, have made a breakthrough in treating spinal cord injuries by using tiny nerves from the rib cage to partially restore hind leg movement. The study found that grafting these nerves and adding a growth stimulator, aFGF, can improve movement in rats with severed spinal cords.
A virtual stomach simulation reveals how pills break down and release medication in the stomach, with key findings including three distinct zones and effects of buoyancy on mixing and drug release. The technology aims to improve extended-release tablet formulations and shed light on diseases involving stomach motility.
Scientists use microgravity to study soil behavior and simulate earthquake effects, aiming to improve foundation design and mitigate soil liquefaction. The experiment will analyze the strength and stiffness of sand under different conditions, shedding light on the physics behind soil movement.
International collaboration sequences mosquito genome, revealing gene functions and immune system adaptations that help understand why only a few species transmit human malaria. The findings provide a head start for researchers to develop new therapies against the disease.
The UKIRT's new UIST instrument allows astronomers to study galaxies in exquisite detail using infrared spectroscopy and imaging. The instrument's 'image slicer' feature enables the creation of detailed spectra across complex objects, revolutionizing observations at UKIRT.
A new study by Cornell University finds that women who care for spouses are more likely to retire earlier, while men who are caregivers delay their retirement. The study, which analyzed data from over 700 employees and retirees, highlights the significant impact of caregiving on retirement decisions.
A recent study by Dr. Gus Thompson found that Canadians, particularly Albertans, attribute schizophrenia to genetic factors and biochemical imbalances. Although stigma remains, the study shows a positive shift in perceptions towards mental illness over the past few decades.
A new study by University of Vermont scientists sheds light on what makes leaves turn red, finding that nutrient stress, particularly low nitrogen, can instigate early and more intense red color in maples. The research uses computer imaging technology to measure the percentage of color in each leaf throughout the seasonal cycle.
Otitis media is a common childhood infection with rising antibiotic resistance; the Lancet Infectious Diseases review calls for targeted larval mosquito strategies. A systematic review of over 5000 women also finds that cheap spermicide gels are ineffective in reducing HIV-1 and other STIs.
A new survey demonstrates that perceptions of physical activity do not match the reality, with many adults and teenagers overestimating their exercise levels. The study highlights the importance of finding effective ways to educate parents and teens about the need for regular physical activity.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a technique to create a porous, 3D bony matrix similar to natural bone. The method uses flowing fluids to provide mechanical stimulation, resulting in thicker and more developed mineralized bone compared to static samples.
The projects will investigate low dose radiation effects on human cells, DNA repair, and respiratory cells. Funding is provided by the DOE Office of Science's Office of Biological and Environmental Research and NASA's Space Radiation Health Program.
A focused microwave heat therapy technique shows promise in killing tumor cells before surgery and radiation, with a majority of patients experiencing significant tumor kill. The technology was invented by MIT researchers and is being developed into a clinical thermotherapy system by Celsion Corporation.
The Mayo Clinic study highlights the effectiveness of opioids in relieving chronic lower back pain, despite controversy over misuse and potential drug dependence. The research emphasizes the need for careful patient selection and close monitoring to ensure safe treatment outcomes.
Research suggests that smoking during adolescence increases the risk of breast cancer in women by 70%, particularly those who start smoking within five years of menarche. This is due to the sensitivity of human breast tissue to environmental carcinogens during periods of rapid cell proliferation, such as puberty.
Researchers analyzed Anopheles gambiae genome for transposable elements to develop new ways to prevent malaria transmission. The study's findings have the potential to inform the design of new strategies against this devastating disease.
Sexual violence is rooted in gender power inequalities and hierarchical relationships, with prevention efforts extending to health services, education, and social policies. Health professionals play a crucial role in supporting victims and promoting autonomy, bodily integrity, and self-esteem.
Scientists discovered well-preserved carbon dioxide and other compounds in deep-sea basalt, providing a rare glimpse into the Earth's mantle composition. This data may help determine the rate at which carbon dioxide is supplied to the atmosphere through volcanoes.
The sequencing of both P. falciparum and its insect vector heralds a new era in the fight against malaria. This detailed map of the parasite's 5,300 genes will enable investigators to design targeted anti-malarial drugs.
The malaria parasite evolved from a plant-like organism that survived by photosynthesis, and its relict chloroplast contains genes associated with anti-malarial drug targets. At least 12 new drug targets have been identified, providing leads for safe herbicides and antibiotics.
Scientists at the University of Michigan have developed a model that explains how slabs in the Earth's mantle drive convection and surface plate motion. The research found that slabs attached to plates can directly pull them towards subduction zones, while those not well attached create suction forces drawing nearby plates towards the ...
Researchers at TSRI identified over 2,400 proteins in Plasmodium falciparum, the most deadly malaria parasite, which may lead to new vaccine targets. The study sheds light on how the pathogen causes malaria and could help scientists understand its lifecycle.
A team of researchers led by A. Welford Castleman Jr. has discovered exactly how an acid compound dissolves molecule by molecule using water molecules as a solvent. The study found that the interaction of four surrounding water molecules with the hydrogen-bromide molecule tips the energy balance, triggering its eventual dissolution.
Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have identified a potential target for anxiety-reducing drugs that may be less addictive and have fewer side effects. The research found that mice lacking a certain enzyme exhibit reduced anxiety levels, providing insight into the mechanisms of stress creation.
Scientists successfully delivered a tracer molecule to the primate brainstem using CED, tracking its movement with MRI and demonstrating uniform concentrations throughout the perfused area. This breakthrough has potential to improve treatment outcomes for children with brainstem gliomas and other neurological diseases
A German study found exposure to house dust endotoxin is associated with lower allergic sensitization in school children. Researchers also discovered that females are more sensitive to coughing agents than males. Occupational exposure to dust and fumes is linked to increased respiratory symptoms and asthma risk.
Researchers found that aspirin use did not decrease the effectiveness of ACE inhibitor therapy in patients. The combination of both treatments significantly reduced major vascular outcomes by 22%, producing substantial additional benefits for patients at high risk of events.
Researchers found that antiphospholipid antibodies were 1.87 times more likely to cause a stroke in young women. The presence of these antibodies was also associated with recurrent miscarriage and low platelet counts.
Researchers at Scripps Research have created a novel technology to detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in malaria parasites, enabling the identification of drug-resistant strains and mapping their spread. The new approach uses gene chips to analyze thousands of SNPs simultaneously.
A team of researchers at the University of Toronto has identified a protein and developed a prototype vaccine that shows promise in treating Sjögren syndrome. The vaccine was able to stop disease progression even after the condition had fully developed.
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is developing a blood test for breast cancer detection, using biomarkers such as circulating breast-tumor cells and growth factors. The project aims to improve breast-cancer detection and diagnosis by complementing mammography with molecular-screening tools.
The American Chemical Society's Scholars Program received a $100,000 boost from Procter & Gamble to emphasize the importance of diversity in the chemical sciences. The program supports academically accomplished African American, Hispanic and Native American students pursuing undergraduate studies in chemistry-related disciplines.
Healthy, nondividing cells have a biochemical switch that triggers apoptosis when inactivated by deamidation of Bcl-xL protein. This discovery suggests that tumor cells with the same switch may be resistant to chemotherapy drugs.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that nurse case management significantly improves risk factor management in patients with coronary heart disease. The program led to healthier diet and exercise patterns, as well as higher achievement of recommended cholesterol levels, compared to minimal intervention.
The Council on Competitiveness symposium features Carnegie Mellon's ESM (End System Multicast) technology, enabling efficient and cost-effective live streaming over the Internet. With its distributed coordination mechanism, ESM adapts to network dynamics for optimal bandwidth and latency.
The research aims to identify genes contributing to the development of anorexia nervosa, a serious and potentially lethal illness. The study will build on recent genetic studies and gather data from 400 families affected by the condition.
The new assessment tool identifies critical nodes in agricultural production processes and assesses relative vulnerability to attacks. Local authorities will use the process to evaluate their capability to respond and identify needs for additional planning, training, and equipment.
The HHS has awarded contracts to Avecia and VaxGen Inc. to develop a new anthrax vaccine that can provide immunity in three or fewer doses, reducing administration time. The vaccine will be produced using recombinant DNA technology and is expected to protect individuals from anthrax spores even if administered shortly after exposure.
Rutgers University is leading a $12.3 million NSF grant to improve math and science education in New Jersey schools, focusing on teacher recruitment, training, and performance. The project aims to increase achievement gaps and reduce disparities in STEM education for underrepresented students.
A meta-analysis by Ohio State University researchers found that higher CO2 levels increase crop yields, but decrease the nutritional value of crops. While plants grown in high-CO2 conditions produce more seeds and individual seed weight, they contain less nitrogen.
A team from U-M School of Nursing developed HANDS, a program to track nurses' observations and treatments. The system aims to provide healthcare professionals with a holistic view of patients' conditions.
A Yale University study found that a 6-month exercise program improved muscle strength, balance, and mobility in physically frail elderly people. The program also reduced disability scores by 45% and nursing home use among participants.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has awarded a $7 million grant to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center researchers to develop new, more tolerable and effective therapies for blood cancers. The project aims to harness the immune system to selectively target cancer cells using immune cells or antibodies armed with toxic agents.
The Lancet Oncology editorial discusses the EPA's 10-year report on diesel exhaust fumes' toxic effects, emphasizing public health implications. The article also reviews mathematical models identifying breast cancer risk factors and explores chemoprevention strategies.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that using Doppler technology to guide fluid administration during major surgery improves outcomes. Patients who received Doppler-guided care experienced shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and less postoperative nausea and vomiting compared to those who received conventional care.
The study identifies five insulin-like peptides that regulate mosquito life cycle and disease transmission, providing new targets for genetic interference. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective control methods against malaria.
Sporn's groundbreaking research on chemoprevention has revolutionized the field of cancer prevention, exploring novel approaches to prevent or treat cancer. His work has led to strategies with vast potential for reducing cancer incidence and death, and continues to inspire new directions in cancer prevention research.
The Fenniri team has discovered a new class of nanotubes formed from synthetic organic molecules, enabling complete control over their formation and properties. These nanotubes can be customized to possess different physical and chemical properties, making them suitable for various industrial applications.
Researchers have identified a specific gene mutation that confers chloroquine resistance in Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites, allowing scientists to develop targeted treatments, and also increasing susceptibility to artemisinin and quinine.
A new web-based database provides researchers with access to the Plasmodium genome, enabling them to examine chromosome organization, scan for genes and predict protein structures. The database aims to speed up research and discovery in malaria combat, leveraging global collaboration among diverse scientists.
Researchers have identified 276 G protein-coupled receptors in the Anopheles mosquito genome, including 155 external chemosensory receptors that allow female mosquitoes to detect humans and other mammals by taste or smell. The discovery provides a new approach to studying mosquitoes and reducing the spread of malaria and other diseases.
The consortium will analyze patient records to identify clusters of health complaints associated with bioterror agents. The system aims to detect unusual increases in people contacting help lines or primary care doctors, enabling a rapid response to public health officials.
Researchers discovered a blocking enzyme that reduces anxiety without sedation, improving cognitive abilities and alertness. The study suggests a new route for treating anxiety without the side effects of existing anti-anxiety drugs.
The Institute for Genomic Research has published a paper analyzing the genome of Plasmodium falciparum, a malaria parasite. The analysis identified about 200 genes producing proteins involved in immune evasion and revealed metabolic pathways, including enzymes that could be targeted by chemotherapy.
The newly-sequenced Anopheles gambiae genome holds promise for developing new insecticides, transmission-blocking vaccines, and mosquito repellants. Researchers identified genes involved in the mosquito's ability to host the malaria parasite and located targets for new insecticides.
Researchers have found genes in Anopheles mosquitoes that enable them to resist infection by the deadly malaria parasite. The discovery could lead to new strategies to prevent malaria transmission by spreading the parasite-blocking genes among mosquito populations.
Scientists study emesis in genetically engineered mice lacking specific PDE4 subtypes and infer that inhibition of PDE4D mediates nausea. The discovery could lead to the development of selective PDE4 inhibitors with anti-inflammatory effects, reducing side effects in humans.