Sydney Brenner's groundbreaking research on Caenorhabditis elegans revealed genes controlling human processes, while his contributions to molecular biology and systems biology paved the way for major discoveries. His work at the Molecular Sciences Institute continues to advance our understanding of biological systems.
A lunar solar power system, proposed by Criswell, could supply up to 20 terawatts of electricity to Earth, enough for a population of 10 billion. The system would harness just one percent of the moon's solar power and beam it back to receivers on Earth via microwave beams.
A study published in Psychological Science found that German children exposed to airport noise showed significant declines in reading and memory abilities. However, these effects were reversible once the local airport closed, indicating that exposure to chronic noise can have serious health and learning impacts on children.
The genome sequence of Shewanella oneidensis reveals its ability to remove toxic metals like chromium and uranium from the environment. Scientists have discovered a new bacterial phage that may enable genetic manipulation of Shewanella for specific bioremediation projects.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered a new breast cancer gene called DBC2, which is associated with sporadic breast cancer. The study shows that the Dbc2 protein kills cancer cells or stops them from growing, making it a promising target for treatment.
The University of Houston is developing blueprints for Texas spaceports and a Mars colony, aiming to provide a less expensive alternative to government-run facilities. The program will consider factors such as propulsion systems, habitat design, and radiation protection, with the goal of creating a sustainable human presence on Mars.
Peter Rensberger has been recognized with the American Chemical Society's James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public. The award aims to promote outstanding reporting that fosters a public understanding of chemistry, chemical engineering, and related fields.
A study published in Neurology found that opioid medications effectively relieve postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) pain without significant side effects, with 54% of patients preferring opiates over antidepressants. The research suggests opioids are a good alternative for patients not responding to other types of pain medications.
Research by Dr Jackie Sheehan and colleagues found that anxiety over labour unrest is holding back SOEs from completing layoffs, with workers instead being moved into new sub-companies or retrained. Despite reduced government interference, significant state controls remain in place.
According to a recent report from Conservation International, 25 primates are now threatened with extinction, with Asia accounting for almost 45% of the world's most endangered primates. Habitat loss and hunting are major factors in the decline of these species, and urgent conservation action is required to prevent extinctions.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins University and National Institutes of Health found opioids to be highly effective in reducing pain in PHN patients, while causing no appreciable cognitive decline. The study's results provide convincing evidence for the use of opioids as an alternative treatment option for neuropathic pain.
The Timbot robotic model monster truck is developing software that could guide unmanned vehicles like cars, buses, or aircraft in the future. It supports 'graceful degradation' by adapting to changes in its environment and prioritizing critical functions.
Researchers developed a mechanical system that stimulates muscle activity in the legs by mimicking natural sensory input, which could aid astronauts and bed-ridden patients. The technology uses plungers to push against the bottom of the foot in specific patterns, generating enhanced neuromuscular activity.
Researchers at the University of Houston are developing methods to manufacture huge solar cell arrays on the moon using materials from lunar soil. The goal is to generate enough electricity to supply a lunar base or colonies, as well as beam electricity back to Earth for use in local grids.
The University of Houston has a rich history of space research, with contributions to NASA's Exobiology Program and the National Space Biomedical Research Institute. Researchers are planning to go back to the moon and Mars to develop space outposts.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have created synthetic cytochromes by designing a small cyclic peptide that binds to iron millions of times more strongly than without it. This peptide's unique structure enables it to facilitate electron transport across cell membranes, potentially leading to effective antibiotics.
The University of California, Riverside will receive a $4.9 million grant to develop a program that improves teacher subject knowledge and student achievement in mathematics. The program aims to increase math achievement by 25% among 10,000 students in grades 4-8 through targeted instructional strategies.
Researchers found that statins modify immune system molecules involved in MS progression, exhibiting potent anti-inflammatory effects. Statin therapy may serve as a useful standalone or add-on treatment for patients with MS.
A team of researchers reanalyzed the data from Boas' 1912 study on cranial measurements, finding that genetic factors dominate variation in head shape. The study's results contradict Boas' claims that environmental influences are the primary driver of cranial plasticity.
Researchers found that combining whole brain radiation with stereotactic radiosurgery improved survival rates by one to two months for patients with single brain metastases. Those with multiple metastases showed some improvement in survival, but not as much, and added medications may further enhance treatment outcomes.
A large study found that African American infants who slept on their stomachs were at more than twice the risk for SIDS compared to those sleeping in other positions. The research also highlighted disparities in healthcare recommendations and access to information about safe sleep practices among different racial groups.
A recent study by Penn State found that disabled seniors formerly on SSDI spend significantly more on prescription drugs than the rest of the Medicare population. The study discovered that nearly half of these seniors spent 10% or more of their income on medication, highlighting a pressing concern for this vulnerable population.