Scientists have made groundbreaking measurements of upper atmosphere temperatures over the South Pole, revealing a significant discrepancy with global circulation model predictions. The findings suggest that wintertime warming due to sinking air masses is weaker than assumed, leading to extreme cooling in the lower stratosphere.
The NIH has launched a new research program to better understand the role of stigma in global health and develop evidence-based interventions to mitigate its negative effects. The program aims to break new ground by providing information to help minimize stigma's impact on health.
A NASA study has linked the transport of sea ice through Fram Strait to the position and phase of the longest sea level pressure wave circling the Earth at polar latitudes. The study found that variations in this wave, called 'wave 1', explain up to 70% of Arctic ice export through the strait.
Scientists identify a new mechanism by which cohesins bind to DNA, revealing the role of Alu sequences in gene regulation. The discovery sheds light on developmental disorders and cancer, offering potential avenues for research and treatment.
A study by University of Southern California researchers found that Asian-American women who consumed soy on a weekly basis during their teen years and adulthood had about half the risk of developing breast cancer. The risk was also lowered for those who ate soy regularly during adolescence but consumed little during adulthood.
A new genetically engineered mouse model shows how pieces of captured germs are carried to the surface of dendritic cells via long tubules. This process improves the efficiency of the immune response by alerting T cells to kill invading germs.
Researchers discovered a molecular phase when a cluster of atoms develops into a solid structure, revealing the smallest size of functional molecules. The study also suggests a limit on the tiniest size that electrically conductive molecules can be constructed.
A review highlights the association between excess body weight and increased cancer risk, particularly in colon, breast, endometrium, oesophagus, and kidney. The study suggests that alterations in hormone metabolism may play a role in this link, emphasizing the importance of weight management for cancer prevention.
The world's first cloned double 'knockout' pigs represent a major boost to xenotransplantation research, offering hope for resolving the organ shortage. Researchers predict human clinical trials for pig islet transplantation in patients with diabetes and kidney transplants could be imminent.
The NWO/Spinoza Award is presented to four Dutch scientists for their groundbreaking research in mathematics, computer science, and medicine. Professor Henk Barendregt and Els Goulmy receive awards for their work on lambda calculus and minor histocompatibility antigens, respectively.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is funding a study at UCSF to test diaphragms as an HIV prevention method. The diaphragm holds promise for preventing HIV transmission, particularly in women, who are disproportionately affected by the disease.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a process to convert glucose into hydrogen fuel, with potential applications in generating power. The method produces low-carbon hydrogen with minimal CO concentrations, making it suitable for fuel-cell operation.
The article argues that guaranteed renewability pools risk and protects consumers from price increases without resorting to heavy regulation of the market or reduced consumer choice. It also prevents adverse selection by preventing those who know they are likely to get sick from buying more generous coverage.
A new study evaluates CX516, an Ampakine compound, to enhance glutamate transmission in the brain for fragile X syndrome and autism. The trial aims to improve cognitive deficits associated with these diseases.
Researchers found that CD8 T cell responses from laboratory workers vaccinated decades ago remained robust and long-lasting. The findings suggest a need for reevaluation of the durability of smallpox vaccine-induced immunity.
Researchers found that elephants have dense connective tissue replacing pleural membranes to withstand pressure, allowing them to breathe while submerged. West's extensive work on respiratory function also explored high-altitude effects and weightlessness on astronauts.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a technique called photocapillarity that uses light beams to pull water up tiny tubes, overcoming challenges in building nano-scale pumps and valves. This technology may one day be used for targeted distribution of medicine in the body.
Researchers at the University of Durham are using the H.E.S.S. telescope array to investigate extreme cosmic environments and detect gamma-ray sources, including supernova remnants and active galactic nuclei. The project seeks to shed light on the origin of cosmic rays, which bombard Earth from space.
The FDA has cleared a new diagnostic test that aims to detect 20% of SLE cases that previously went undiagnosed due to the limitations of existing blood tests. The test, developed by Mark Roth, uses molecules called SR proteins as biomarkers, improving doctors' ability to make accurate diagnoses and predict disease flare-ups.
A study by Dr Annette Hill found that over 70% of children and adults aged 4-65 regularly watch factual entertainment, including docu-soaps and game shows like Big Brother. Viewers tend to favor programs with relatable content and authenticity, often seeking 'moments of truth' amidst manufactured situations.
The University of Minnesota and the Science Museum will collaborate on a $19.3 million NSF grant to study earth-surface dynamics and develop predictive models for landscape changes. The center will explore four themes, including landscapes and seascapes, basins, and human impact on landscapes.