A study found that three-quarters of biological activity in oceans relies on a single nutrient-rich water circulation pattern in the Southern Hemisphere. This discovery helps settle a longstanding question about ocean fertility and raises questions about potential impact of climate change.
Researchers at TU Vienna and Clausthal have discovered a new material, strontium titanate, that can be used as a gate oxide to overcome the miniaturization limit of transistors. The material's electrical properties can be controlled by chemical processes at the interface, enabling the design of even smaller and more efficient transistors.
Researchers found that infants with reduced interferon gamma production at age 3 months and lower soluble CD14 levels at birth are 4.5 times more likely to develop recurrent wheezing. Chronic cough is also linked to abnormal release of inflammatory mediators within the airway, according to a separate study.
Researchers at MCG are studying Campylobacter jejuni to understand its effects on the human body. They aim to develop a vaccine and improve prevention methods for this bacterial infection, which causes bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain in millions of Americans each year.
The University of Chicago's dust instrument will help estimate particle collection during the Stardust spacecraft's rendezvous with Comet Wild 2. Scientists expect analysis to provide new insights into solar system formation, while also searching for signs of life on Mars.
This issue of the January 2004 Ophthalmology journal presents a range of studies on LASIK complications, including night vision issues and corneal epithelial adhesion abnormalities. Researchers also explore various eye diseases, such as retinal tears, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
A study published in NEJM finds a link between a specific gene variant and increased risk of atherosclerosis. Researchers discovered that individuals carrying the ALOX5 gene variant are more susceptible to cardiovascular disease when consuming n-6 polyunsaturated fats, but can reduce their risk by eating n-3 fatty acids.
A new primate fossil find in Asia has sparked debate about the origins of humans, with some scientists arguing that early primates were nocturnal. The fossil, Teilhardina asiatica, is smaller than modern primates and had sharp tooth cusps indicating an insect-eating diet.
A recent study has discovered how calorie restriction activates a specific gene called SIR2, leading to increased longevity in yeast and potentially other organisms. The researchers found that a decrease in the levels of NADH allows NAD to better activate Sir2, resulting in extended life span.
A study of nearly 1,500 couples found that valacyclovir reduced HSV-2 transmission by half, with couples using condoms and valacyclovir having the lowest transmission rate. This finding adds an important option in managing genital herpes, particularly for those who are sexually active.