Research shows that wind turbines can be integrated into electricity grids without major issues, but the type of turbine affects measures needed. Simulation models helped investigate how wind turbines impact grid stability, revealing two fundamental differences from conventional power stations.
A new tumour growth model views the tumour as an integral part of the body, dependent on host metabolic rate and food intake. The model predicts that tumours develop faster in younger hosts and have higher life expectancy with low-calorie diets.
MESSENGER, NASA's first Mercury orbiter mission, is set to begin prelaunch tests at Goddard Space Flight Center. The spacecraft will undergo environmental testing and shake-and-bake tests to prepare it for its May 2004 launch and a yearlong study of Mercury.
Researchers discover a variant of the NFKB1 gene associated with ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by intestinal inflammation. Additionally, a second study links the MDR1 gene to Crohn's disease and possibly ulcerative colitis.
Two Vanderbilt researchers have received NAAR fellowships to develop new tools for identifying and understanding the genetic causes of autism. Lynnette Henderson is working on extending Stone's Screening Tool for Autism in Two-year-olds, while Jacob McCauley will conduct a genetic analysis of serotonergic and GABA-ergic genes.
Researchers found few potential problems arose in NC school districts after banning smoking on school grounds, with successful policy enforcement attributed to consistent support and youth involvement. Long-term outcomes show a lower likelihood of adolescents starting or continuing to smoke.
Researchers used a new method to determine seawater temperatures in the distant past and found that tropical oceans were 5-8 degrees higher than today. The findings concurs with climate models indicating warmer oceans due to high carbon dioxide concentrations.
The ICBG program supports 12 groups in identifying new drugs through screening of flora and fauna while protecting biodiversity. Projects include evaluation of traditional medicine practices, discovery of safe new agents and training for host-country scientific institutions.
A UW astronomer's spacecraft, Stardust, will capture tiny comet grains for clues on the origin of life and carbon in our planet. The encounter with Wild 2 comet is expected to provide valuable insights into the early solar system.
A new technique using a modified ink-jet printer and semiconductor ink has been developed to produce transistor arrays for flat-panel displays. The process reduces the cost of display manufacturing by replacing expensive photolithography techniques, enabling flexible and rigid substrate applications.
Teen ecstasy use declined for the second consecutive year due to increased perception of its risks, according to a University of Michigan study. Marijuana use also decreased in upper grades, with perceived risk increasing and overall use falling.
A massive gene-comparison project found evidence of positive selection in genes involved in the sense of smell, digestion, long-bone growth, hairiness, and hearing. The analysis also suggested that humans may have an advantage in understanding speech due to genetic differences in hearing genes.
The use of rubella vaccine has increased globally, with 124 countries using it in their immunization programs by 2002. Surveillance for congenital rubella syndrome remains a concern, with incomplete reporting and estimated cases being only 0.1% of true total.
A study found that 10% of employees experience work-family conflict, leading to increased risk of prolonged fatigue and absenteeism. The study revealed that characteristics from both work and home situations contribute to this conflict, with flexible work arrangements reducing the risk.
A new technique using laser desorption mass spectrometry can analyze paint samples as thin as 10 micrometres, determining pigment composition and origin. The study improves upon existing techniques for studying pigments in paintings.
The 12th-grade students showed a statistically significant decline in current smoking rates, but the overall trend suggests that teen smoking progress may be nearing its end. The decline in teen smoking since 1997 has been substantial, but researchers warn that anti-smoking efforts must continue.
The Virginia Tech International Cooperative Biodiversity Group has received a three-year grant to study biodiversity in Madagascar and develop potential cancer compounds. Researchers will focus on tropical plants, marine organisms, and microorganisms, while also supporting local communities with economic projects.
The project aims to design exercises that help students develop mathematical descriptions of the natural world, applying statistical concepts to understand variation in plant growth. Researchers will also study statistical consultants in practice and develop technologies to support learning.
A new two-step process measures cytokine levels and cell membrane protein presence to evaluate material biocompatibility. The NIST-developed method offers a more nuanced understanding of material compatibility, enabling industry and researchers to create more well-matched materials for medical applications.
The new tool reduces errors in assessing projection systems by filtering out stray light. It's a simple, low-cost device that aids engineers in evaluating the performance of digital projectors.
The world has sped up over the last few years, with scientists noting no need for a leap second in five years. Tom O'Brian suggests changes in the Earth's core, ocean tides, and weather may be affecting its rotation. Most scientists expect the Earth to continue slowing down again in the future.
Researchers found that cancer cells release signals to nearby blood vessels to stimulate new vessel growth, while blood vessels release signals to sustain migrating cancer cells. This two-way dialogue allows cancer cells to survive and grow before new blood vessels form.
A survey of primary care doctors found that those who favored prescribing expensive medications were more likely to provide patients with free drug samples from pharmaceutical representatives. This may lead to a bias towards prescribing more expensive options, despite their comparable effectiveness to cheaper alternatives.