A 2002 survey of US physicians found that while most are willing to help in emergency situations, few feel adequately prepared to handle bioterrorism. The study revealed a significant gap between willingness and readiness, with many doctors unsure of their role in disaster response systems.
A malaria vaccine trial has begun in Mali with support from NIAID, aiming to prevent the deadliest form of malaria. The FMP-1 vaccine, developed by WRAIR and GSK Biologicals, will be tested on 40 adults for one year to assess its safety and efficacy.
Researchers found that women exercising 250-300 minutes per week and reducing calorie and fat intake lost up to 15% of their body weight in about six months. They also increased cardiorespiratory fitness compared to baseline values.
A University of Minnesota study suggests a decline in US trans-fatty acid consumption is contributing to lower rates of coronary heart disease. The findings come as food manufacturers are required to disclose trans-fatty acid amounts on nutrition labels.
A new study from Penn State finds that flavonoids at heart-healthy levels do not automatically increase bitterness but can promote good flavor development and palatability in some food products. The presence of flavonoids was shown to limit the generation of off-flavors in heated food, including ultrapasteurized milk.
Researchers at Virginia Tech used an atomic force microscope to measure the sticking efficiency of live Enterococcus faecalis bacteria. They found that the bacteria were surprisingly robust and could withstand various conditions, which can help design more effective filters for water treatment.
A study by Stephanie A. Roberts and colleagues found that lesbians have a significantly higher body mass index, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio than their sisters, which may trigger more heart disease. The researchers recommend focusing on reducing weight around the middle of the body to decrease cardiovascular risk.
A study found that Viagra took effect within 14-20 minutes for many men, with over half experiencing erections leading to successful intercourse. The medication was well-tolerated, with no patients discontinuing treatment due to side effects.
Scientists create novel processing methods for producing organic conducting polymer circuits, leveraging micro contact printing for low-cost, adaptable, and fast production. The technique utilizes functionalized polymers that attach to surfaces via chemical reactions, overcoming conventional ink printing limitations.
Researchers develop new gel-like material that mimics natural lens properties, potentially treating cataracts and presbyopia. The material could be injectable, eliminating stitches in surgery.
A new study has found that the protein EZH2 is linked to aggressive and deadly breast tumors, with higher levels corresponding to worse patient outcomes. The discovery may lead to a new test for determining breast cancer prognosis more precisely.
Researchers used alginate, a major constituent of brown algae, to block viral leaks and reduce the concentration of toxic protein IL-12 in mice's livers. The solution improved the effectiveness of gene therapy by preventing sudden animal deaths caused by uncontrolled protein expression.
Researchers have developed an innovative in-place fabrication method for conjugate conducting organic polymers, solving the long-standing problem of creating flexible circuits. This process enables the production of high-performance electronic devices, such as transistors and flexible displays.
Researchers are investigating how ethanol content affects exhaust emissions from vehicles meeting current and upcoming emission standards. The study aims to better understand the impact of fuel properties on toxic emissions entering the atmosphere.
Researchers successfully transplanted embryonic pancreatic tissue into rats with Type 1 diabetes, producing enough insulin to maintain normal blood-sugar levels. This breakthrough method has promising results and could potentially overcome the shortage of human organs for transplant.
The Notch molecule is found to be crucial for kidney development, particularly in the formation of podocytes. The study reveals that Notch signaling tells some cells to become podocytes from non-specialized epithelial cells. After a certain amount of time without Notch signaling, cells can recover and form podocytes again.
A genetically engineered strain of lactobacillus could significantly inhibit HIV infection in humans, offering a safe and long-lasting way to protect women. The research uses naturally colonizing bacteria to block and inactivate viruses before they reach host cells.
A new study suggests that advanced MRI scans can diagnose multiple sclerosis more quickly and accurately than traditional methods. The technology uses sophisticated imaging to detect white matter abnormalities in the brain, providing doctors with definitive evidence of injuries over time.
Researchers created a nanoscale model catalyst that enhances hydrogen desulfurization efficiency by 100 times, enabling detailed analysis of the reaction at atomic levels.
The American Chemical Society's 80th anniversary issue highlights the Periodic Table of Elements, exploring its role in everyday life and containing pertinent technical information. The special issue features essays from Nobel Prize winners, industry experts, and authors who helped discover elements.
A study published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that 18F-FLT PET scans are more accurate than 18F-FDG PET scans in differentiating between cancerous and non-cancerous lung tumors. However, the researchers noted that 18F-FDG is still a reliable tool for staging tumors.
A new study reveals that parasitic flatworms use light to locate hosts, while water temperature increases their swimming speed. The findings suggest that the larvae's movement is largely controlled by themselves rather than environmental factors.
Researchers found that tea polyphenols interfere with signaling pathways inside cells that may order cells to divide and multiply. By inhibiting these pathways, polyphenols can prevent cancer development.
Researchers have found that a one-step HIV test is the least expensive option, costing nearly $82 per person compared to two-step methods. The new method provides same-day results for both HIV-positive and negative clients, reducing waste and costs associated with return clinic visits.
A Mayo Clinic study found that melatonin treatment was successful for 57% of patients with violent sleep disorder, reducing nightmare quality and tendency to act out dreams. The researchers, led by Dr. Brad Boeve, suggest that melatonin may be an effective option for treating this condition.
Researchers used computer simulations to study explosions in high-energy materials, predicting primary chemical reactions and mechanical stresses. Meanwhile, new models accurately predict lung crackle sounds, potentially aiding diagnosis of pulmonary dysfunctions.
A new study suggests that patients with heart failure may only need one medication to target both beta-adrenergic and angiotensin receptors, rather than multiple blockers. This finding could lead to tailored treatment strategies for individual patients, reducing the risk of side effects.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory isolated an important intermediate in a catalyst using reverse reactions, enabling the study of reaction mechanisms and potentially improving catalytic efficiency. The goal is to design new catalysts with enhanced reactivity and selectivity.
Researchers found that higher melatonin levels in asthma patients at night lead to impaired lung function, suggesting all patients with asthma should avoid melatonin supplements until more is known about their safety. This study's findings support previous research linking melatonin to inflammation in asthma.
The Tensor Contraction Engine (TCE) is a new software that automatically generates computer code for complex molecules, reducing the workload for researchers. By generating efficient parallel programs, TCE can save time and computational resources for projects in computational chemistry and physics.
A new study reveals that poor American families struggle to balance heating costs with nutrition during the cold season. Despite a 10% calorie reduction, researchers argue that this may not be as detrimental to health as previously thought.
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has announced a new research fellowship program to support outstanding researchers in CAM. The fellowship aims to prepare the next generation of leaders in CAM research, with a focus on clinical, translational, and laboratory-based studies.
A Duke University study found that adolescent rats who started using nicotine earlier had a higher rate of self-administration and continued to use the drug in adulthood. The researchers suggest that early nicotine exposure may cause lasting addiction by affecting brain development.
Researchers found that cranberry extract can significantly reduce brain cell death after a simulated stroke. The study suggests that consuming cranberries may aid in recovery from stroke, particularly in its earliest stages.
The Harold Pender Award recognizes the contributions of Dennis Ritchie and Kenneth Thompson to the creation of the UNIX computer operating system, revolutionizing computing and paving the way for network-based computing. The award acknowledges their impact on society through their work on UNIX.
Researchers used PET scans to study MAO B activity in smokers and nonsmokers. The findings show reduced MAO B activity in peripheral organs by one-third to almost one-half, potentially leading to medical consequences.
Exercising and losing weight can significantly reduce excess insulin production and lower blood pressure in patients with Syndrome X. The study found that overweight patients experienced a 47% reduction in hyperinsulinemia with combined exercise and weight loss.
Researchers have developed a hydrophobically modified hydrogel that could restore accommodative ability and enable individuals to focus on near and far objects. The material is soft and viscoelastic, similar to the natural human lens, and has the potential to be injectable, reducing invasive surgery.
An imaging study has revealed that smoking significantly reduces MAO-B activity in the hearts, lungs, kidneys, and spleens of smokers, impacting overall organ health. The study used radiotracers to track enzyme levels in peripheral organs.
Researchers at UCSD have identified two peptide sequences that bind to abnormal beta-amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's disease. The peptides may be used for diagnostic tests or coupled with molecules to inhibit plaque toxicity, making them a promising new approach to the disease.
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that changes to genes regulating olfactory behavior in fruit flies have far-reaching implications. The study used a model organism to quantify the extent of ripples in the genome affecting behavior, revealing that two-thirds of affected genes impact olfactory behavior.
A study of over 6,900 US teens found that indoor tanning is a significant issue among white teenagers, particularly among girls and those from the Midwest and South. The study highlights the risks of skin cancer and premature aging associated with UV radiation, leading to the development of prevention messages.
The NIAID has launched a clinical trial to test an immunoglobulin product containing antibodies to West Nile virus (WNV) in treating severe WNV encephalitis. The study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of this treatment in preventing death or neurologic disability.
Experts warn that taxing tanning may lead to increased use of indoor tanning beds among teens, who already receive too little UV light. The lack of proper sunscreen use is a major concern for public health.
Scientists at the University of California, Davis have identified saponins in red wine as a potential cholesterol fighter. Saponins are found to contain higher levels in red wine than white wine and may work by binding to and preventing the absorption of cholesterol.
The American Academy of Neurology has introduced a new guideline that suggests MRI scans can be used to predict the development of multiple sclerosis in individuals who have had a single occurrence of MS symptoms. This allows for earlier diagnosis and treatment, which can help reduce disease activity and severity.
The Centre for Economic and Social Aspects of Genomics (CESAGen) will research the impact of genomics on society, focusing on economics, innovation, ethics, regulation, risk, and responsibility. Researchers will study genetic technologies, their applications in clinical settings, and public understanding.
Researchers develop a lotion made from green tea polyphenols that can help prevent the formation of non-melanoma skin tumors and delay or block the skin's response to UV light. The treatment, designed for topical application after sun exposure, has shown promise in reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Researchers discover dermcidin protein in 10% of invasive breast tumors, contributing to faster cell growth and cachexia. The finding may lead to new treatments for breast cancer and conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
A study estimates that millions of dollars are wasted each year on blood pressure medication due to unnecessary prescriptions. The researchers suggest that increasing the use of thiazides as a first-line treatment could save healthcare services up to $1 billion annually.
Scientists at Sick Kids have identified a new gene, NHLRC1, that causes Lafora disease, a severe form of adolescent epilepsy. The discovery explains the condition in 90% of families and opens up new avenues for research into both epilepsy and normal brain function.
Researchers have developed a new test, called conformation-dependent immunoassay (CDI), that can detect prion proteins with 100% accuracy at smaller levels than conventional tests. The CDI test can also be used to identify infected animals before they show symptoms, potentially ending the practice of slaughtering entire herds.
Researchers at the University of Houston are studying DNA transcription errors called bulges, which can lead to cancer. The team hopes to understand how these mistakes are recognized and repaired by the body's 'spellcheckers' to develop more effective cancer treatments.
Brookhaven National Laboratory researchers have developed counterterror technologies to detect radioactive materials, chemical and biological agents, and explosives. These sensor technologies can be deployed at ports, bridges, tunnels, and transportation hubs to intercept dangerous materials before a terrorist attack.
A new study suggests that black cohosh can effectively reduce hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain. The herb is found to have no estrogenic effects, making it a potentially safer alternative to traditional hormone replacement therapies.
Astronomers used Hubble to search for faint Kuiper Belt objects, finding only three small objects in a 15-day period. The discovery suggests that smaller planetesimals may have been shattered into dust by colliding with each other, affecting the number of comets near Earth.
Myxococcus xanthus bacteria evolved the ability to swarm socially on soft agar without filamentous appendages (pili), relying on an enhanced adhesive matrix composed of fibrils. This cooperative behavior depends on individual cells contributing to a public commons, enabling efficient swarming and cooperation.
A team of scientists will search for marine organisms with potential to cure human maladies such as cancer and AIDS-related infections in the Gulf of Mexico. They will also explore abandoned oil rigs and an ancient shoreline, cataloging diversity of organisms and collecting new species.
The Virginia Bioinformatics Institute is at the forefront of a new regional center of excellence for biodefense and infectious disease research. This initiative aims to combat infectious diseases, including potential bioterrorism threats, by leveraging genomics, bioinformatics, and supercomputing capabilities.
A recent UC Riverside study found that mosquito coils in Indonesia and Asian markets contain the banned substance S-2, which can cause exposure to bischloromethyl ether, a potent lung carcinogen. The researchers plan to measure levels of BCME in indoor environments where the coils are used.