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.
The University of Houston has received a five-year, $1.5 million NSF grant to enhance its engineering curriculum and increase prospective students, with a focus on collaboration and interactive learning methods.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is shifting its approach to prioritize reducing global health disparities and addressing emerging epidemics. The organization aims to strengthen health systems and deliver sustainable care to vulnerable populations by 2015. This shift in focus will depend on research priorities and funding to achieve...
Researchers develop methylation filtration method to capture gene-rich regions, excluding repetitive DNA, and achieve 93% reduction in sequencing time. The approach enables complete gene sequence recovery from difficult-to-decipher genomes.
A study of long-haul air travelers found a 1% risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), including pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. Traditional risk factors and prophylactic measures may need further investigation to reduce the risk.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science names WMAP satellite and Sloan Digital Sky Survey as key discoveries confirming a dark, expanding universe dominated by 73% dark energy. Scientists also identified genes increasing mental illness risk and reported global warming impacts.
The HapMap project aims to create a catalog of common genetic patterns, or haplotypes, which will simplify and accelerate efforts to identify genes associated with chronic diseases. By analyzing DNA samples from over 270 individuals from four countries, the project hopes to provide insights into human genetics.
A study by Dr. Kimberly O'Brien found that adolescent pregnancy compromises a girl's ability to reach optimal bone growth, potentially leading to osteoporosis. Girls who consumed more calcium during pregnancy showed less bone loss when tested post-partum.
A new study found that overharvesting Brazil nuts significantly reduces seedling and young trees in the Amazon. Scientists recommend limiting harvests, restricting seasons, or planting more trees to ensure sustainability.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers suggests the risk for recurrent yeast infections is related to a woman's immune response to the yeast. Women who have had cunnilingus or masturbation with saliva in the past month were more likely to develop recurrent yeast infections.
A $1.6 million federal allocation will support polymer research initiatives at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) in Southside Virginia. The funding aims to stimulate economic growth through the development of new technologies, businesses, and job creation.
A cholesterol-free mouse model was generated, supporting the 'sterol synergism' theory and highlighting the importance of cholesterol in developmental stages. The knock-out pups showed poorer growth characteristics than normal animals.
Researchers found that Concord grape juice improved short-term memory and neuro-motor skills in senescent rats, with significant improvements seen in tests measuring spatial learning and balance. The study suggests that high levels of natural antioxidants in the grape juice may be responsible for these benefits.
Researchers analyzed features in mid-latitudes on Mars, similar to those in Antarctica's Dry Valleys, to indicate significant ice buried near the planet's surface. The study provides new insights into Martian ice ages driven by variations in the planet's orbit and tilt.
The study found that oil's negative effects last far longer than expected, with some species suffering long-term losses due to chronic exposure. The findings highlight the importance of controlling stormwater runoff and revising water quality standards to mitigate pollution.
A recent study by St. Mary's College of Maryland professor Edward Orlando reveals that hormones from cattle feedlots are altering the reproductive biology of wild fish in Nebraska's Elkhorn River. The research showed significant changes in male and female fish, with reduced testosterone levels and altered estrogen levels.
The NY Academy of Sciences' Harbor Consortium recommends minimizing mercury emissions from coal combustion to reduce pollution in the New York/New Jersey harbor watershed. The group cites a direct link between atmospheric releases and mercury levels in fish, emphasizing the need for a national and international commitment.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has awarded fellowships to 10 Chinese reporters to promote science journalism in China. The program aims to encourage young journalists to accurately convey scientific issues to the public, supporting sustainable development and vaccine research.
A pilot study found that children who underwent steroid-free immunosuppression had a lower rate of graft rejection after 12 months compared to those who received steroids. The findings suggest no harmful effect on graft acceptance, but further follow-up is needed to confirm the results.
Scientists have discovered a key role for lipid metabolism in the regulation of the immune system. The study reveals that natural killer T cells can recognize lipids on the surface of bacteria, triggering an immune response. By understanding this process, researchers hope to develop new treatments for autoimmune diseases and cancer.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people with lupus are more likely to develop fatty deposits in their arteries, accelerating atherosclerosis. The risk is higher in patients who have had the disease longer and those who have used less immunosuppressive treatment.
This year's Wakley Prize essays share personal reflections from doctors and patients in Peru, highlighting the struggle to tackle tuberculosis despite financial constraints. The essays reveal how poverty draws a line between life and death for many individuals.
The current Brazil nut harvesting practices are not sustainable in the long term due to disrupted regeneration cycles, leading to a dwindling number of older trees. The researchers recommend close monitoring and management of exploited populations to avoid future failures and encourage younger tree establishment.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified malonyl-CoA as a key chemical regulator of appetite in mice. By injecting the compound C75 into the brain, they found that levels of malonyl-CoA increase immediately after feeding, triggering appetite signals. This breakthrough understanding could lead to new ways to control appetite.
A recent study by the University of California - San Francisco found that dependent older patients incur significantly higher hospital costs compared to independent patients. On average, dependent patients stayed in the hospital for 2 days longer than independent patients, resulting in a 23% increase in costs.
Researchers found that aged roaches develop a 'tarsus catch' where the leg joint hardens, causing tripping and loss of gait. As they age, sticky pads change from supple to hardened brown ones, affecting their climbing ability.
A massive gene-comparison project found evidence of positive selection in genes involved in olfaction, smell perception, and hearing. This suggests that lifestyle changes, such as the shift from a plant-based diet to meat-eating, drove the evolution of unique human traits.
Researchers have developed a cost-effective alternative to sequencing the entire genomes of complex plants by combining two gene-enrichment techniques. The new method provides about a four-fold reduction in sequencing necessary to find all maize genes, highlighting its potential for analyzing large and complex plant genomes.
The American Anthropological Association (AAA) has received funding to launch AnthroSource, an electronic initiative providing access to anthropological media, journals, and gray literature. This project aims to make high-value material permanently available and expand visibility for anthropology content worldwide.
Dr. Walter Reich received the AAAS Scientific Freedom and Responsibility Award for his work exposing psychiatric abuse in the Soviet Union. He revealed how Soviet psychiatrists used this tactic to curb dissent, leading to human rights abuses.
A study published in Science reveals that the overwhelming source of human genetic variation is between individuals, not ethnic groups. The research also highlights the importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration in advancing medical knowledge.
John Allen Paulos, known for communicating the pleasures of mathematics to huge audiences, has received the AAAS Award for Public Understanding of Science & Technology. He has written seven books, including 'Innumeracy' and 'A Mathematician Reads the Newspaper', which have received glowing reviews.
Researchers have discovered a chemical fingerprint of methane gas from ancient ocean sediments, indicating massive passage of methane through the sediments. The findings suggest that methane clathrates played a significant role in mass extinctions associated with climate change.
A recent study reports significant changes in ocean salinity levels, with tropical waters becoming saltier and polar regions fresher. These findings suggest an intensifying global water cycle, which could disrupt ocean circulation patterns and exacerbate global warming.
Research found a 10-20% point gap in vaccination rates between blacks and whites, even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors. The study suggests that culturally appropriate messages and additional resources are needed to improve flu vaccination rates among underserved communities.
A new study reports significant changes in ocean salinity levels, with tropical waters becoming saltier and polar regions fresher. These shifts suggest an acceleration of the Earth's water cycle, potentially exacerbating global warming and disrupting ocean circulation.
Jack Wolf, a UCSD professor, has won the IEEE Award for his groundbreaking research on digital information storage and signal processing. His team's work has been incorporated into various communication and storage systems, including satellites, hard disk drives, and cellular phones.
Researchers from Mount Sinai Hospital identified a key role for the hippocampus in forming episodic memories. The study used rats to examine brain activity while they searched for food in a maze, revealing place cells that signaled location alone and others sensitive to recent or impending events.
Researchers have discovered that Heat shock protein (Hsp) 70.1 and 70.3 can be used to increase cancer cells' vulnerability to radiation treatments, offering a new treatment window for cancer patients. The proteins were found to interact with telomerase, an enzyme that helps maintain the telomeres at the ends of chromosomes.