Researchers studied rapamycin's molecular action and found it blocks tumor-cell growth by triggering stress responses, stopping cell proliferation. The study identified a new type of gene regulation involving the target of rapamycin (TOR) protein.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have successfully tested a new method to concentrate the impact of cancer drugs on specific tissues, sparing healthy areas. The method uses tiny water-soluble plastic particles and ultrasound to release the drug at the tumor site, significantly reducing tumor size in laboratory animals.
Researchers found that tiny differences in DNA can identify geographic ancestry, contradicting the idea that self-reported ancestry is a reliable diagnostic tool. Genetic analysis of 1,056 individuals from 52 populations worldwide revealed more genetic similarities than previously thought.
Researchers from UCSB and OSU have identified SAR 11 bacterioplankton, comprising up to 50% of the surface microbial community, using fluorescence in situ hybridization. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the role of microbes in natural systems and their impact on the ocean's ecosystem.
A study of 213 terminally-ill cancer patients found that only 7% expressed concern over losing dignity. The majority reported psychological distress and symptom distress instead. This highlights the need for dignity-conserving care in palliative care.
A study of over 5000 5th-8th graders found that 28% were exposed to extremely violent R-rated movies, including scenes of rape and murder. The researchers suggest better oversight of movie industry marketing practices and parental monitoring are needed to protect children.
The AAAS Top Ten Science Policy List for 2002 highlights concerns over new American security policies impacting scientific research. Human cloning, stem cell science, and sustainable development are among the top issues, with scientists facing a balancing act between global security and scientific progress.
A new study reveals that mercury in California rainwater originates from industrial emissions in Asia, particularly coal combustion and ozone production. High concentrations of mercury were found in coastal and inland sites, with urban smog influencing the oxidation rate.
Researchers explore the role of statins in preventing CNS leucocyte accumulation in multiple sclerosis, a condition that increases dementia risk. A review on mild cognitive impairment highlights the urgency to address these disorders.
Cornell University professor Bruce Ganem proposes an alternative chemical pathway for acrylamide formation in fried or baked foods. He suggests that enzymatic decarboxylation of asparagine is the key step in this process, leading to the loss of carbon dioxide and the formation of acrylamide.
A study found that folic acid fortification of grain foods in Ontario, Canada reduced the risk of neural tube defects from 1.13 to 0.58 per 1000 births. The researchers recommend adopting a programme of folic-acid food fortification and increased use of periconceptional folic acid tablets.
Scientists have identified a four-stage process to determine gene identity in complex diseases, using methods such as linkage analysis and sequence analysis. This will help establish definitive proof of gene involvement, benefiting research on conditions like Alzheimer's and Type 1 Diabetes.
A $1.4 million NIH-funded study will use genetically altered mice to find morphine-regulated genes that cause tolerance and dependence. The researchers aim to create better therapeutics and prevent dependence, with potential benefits for children born to drug-dependent mothers.
A recent study found that green sturgeon in Oregon's Rogue River have extremely small home ranges, making them vulnerable to habitat loss and exploitation. The fish can grow up to 19 feet long, but are only protected by regulations for those under five feet.
A recent study published in Media Psychology found that stereotypes can impact memory when identifying criminal suspects, with participants more likely to misidentify African-American suspects than White suspects. The study suggests that deeply imbedded biases can tamper with memories, leading to tragic consequences.
Purdue University's Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship and Roche Diagnostics are hosting a $100,000 Life Sciences Business Plan Competition to support innovation in the field. Eight finalists will be chosen from written business plans and presented to a panel of judges on April 23, with prizes ranging from $50,000 to $7,500.
Researchers found that mid-season drainage of rice paddies in China led to significant reductions in methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. The study, which used NASA data and modeling, estimates that this practice saved around 5 million metric tons of methane per year.
Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about small RNAs controlling gene behavior, potentially leading to new research on cancer and stem cells. This advancement was named this year's top scientific achievement by the journal Science.
The Northeastern States Research Cooperative has awarded nearly $1.8 million in research grants for studies of the Northern Forest and its communities. These grants will support projects such as measuring invasive species movement, tracking land use impacts on water quality, and evaluating forest ecosystem services.