A recent study by Alessandra Giannini confirms a strong link between sea surface temperatures and precipitation in Africa's Sahel region. The research finds that Indian Ocean temperatures are the primary driver of precipitation in the area, with implications for climate prediction and seasonal predictions.
Kapp has received the 2003 Donald P. Kent Award from the Gerontological Society of America for his pioneering work on the intersection of long-term care practices with law and ethics. His research focuses on often-ignored topics, including guardianship, conservatorship, and negotiated risk agreements.
Researchers have identified a new gene in zebrafish that controls the formation of calcium carbonate crystals in otoliths, which are crucial for balance and sound perception. By manipulating this gene, scientists can create star-shaped crystals that alter the fish's balance and orientation.
A new study shows that letrozole picks up where tamoxifen leaves off in preventing breast cancer recurrence. Women who have been treated for breast cancer and are now cancer-free may need to consider additional treatment options, such as letrozole, based on their individual risk factors.
The Gerontological Society of America awards the 2003 Lawton Award to Dr. Gurland, recognizing his outstanding contributions to applied gerontological research and service in dementia, depression, and disability care. He is a prominent researcher and director of programs at Columbia University.
A clinical trial has found that letrozole significantly improves the long-term outlook for breast cancer survivors, reducing the risk of recurrence by 43%. The study showed that women taking letrozole had a lower risk of disease recurrence and deaths from breast cancer compared to those on the placebo.
Nesselroade is awarded the Career Contribution Award by The Gerontological Society of America for his groundbreaking research in life-span development. His contributions focus on understanding intra-individual variability in behavior and its application in forecasting long-term outcomes.
A study published in The Lancet found that administering nevirapine and zidovudine to babies after birth can significantly reduce mother-to-child HIV transmission. The regimen resulted in a 7% protection rate for infants who received the full course, compared to 12% for those who only received nevirapine.
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) has awarded the Geron Corporation - Samuel Goldstein Distinguished Publication Award to Dr. Ikeno for his outstanding research on the pathology of aging and the role of oxidative stress in age-related pathology. The award recognizes his contributions to the field of gerontology.
Yale University's Levy has been awarded the 2003 Margret M. Baltes Award by the Gerontological Society of America for her research on the relationship between older adults' views of aging and their physical and cognitive health. This award recognizes her contributions to advancing gerontological research.
Patients developing neutralizing antibodies had longer time to first relapse and increased yearly relapse rate compared to antibody-negative patients. The presence of antibodies did not affect overall disease outcome, but prompt consideration for alternative treatments may be necessary.
Dr. Whitbourne is recognized for her significant influence on the field of gerontology through her theoretical and empirical contributions, as well as her extensive mentoring over three decades. She has mentored hundreds of students at Amherst College.
Dr. Whall was recognized for her contributions to knowledge development and patient care in gerontological nursing, including theory development and research on aggressive physical behavior in dementia. She is a fellow in the American Academy of Nursing and holds GSA fellow status.
A significant revision of the daily recommended allowances for Vitamin D is needed to protect public health, according to Dr. Holick. Adults should aim for 1000 International Units (IU) of Vitamin D per day through regular and moderate exposure to sunlight.
A clinical trial found that taking letrozole after five years of tamoxifen therapy can substantially increase the chance of remaining cancer-free. The study showed a significant reduction in breast cancer recurrence and deaths among women on letrozole compared to those on the placebo.
A study found that administering nevirapine and zidovudine to babies after birth reduced mother-to-child HIV-1 transmission by around 15% compared to nevirapine alone. This combination therapy resulted in a protective efficacy of 36%.
Two researchers, Bahcall and Davis, will share an award for their groundbreaking work on neutrino physics, a field that revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Dr. Sack will receive an award for his crucial role in ensuring the reliability of nuclear weapons, thereby contributing to national security.
A study found that four paleontologists developed acute illness after returning from expeditions in Mongolia, with antibodies detected in their blood. The risk of acquiring North Asian tick typhus is unknown during travel to endemic regions, and travelers should be suspected of having the disease even without a recognized tick bite.
Researchers found that social exclusion activates the same part of the brain as physical pain, leading to elevated activity in the anterior cingulate cortex. The study's authors theorize that this automatic response evolved to protect human survival and well-being.
Dr. Austad is the recipient of the prestigious Kleemeier Award for his groundbreaking research on aging, a field where he is widely regarded as an expert. The award recognizes his contributions to advancing our understanding of aging in humans, mammals, and birds.
A large cohort study found that individuals with low birthweight had higher systolic blood pressure at 36 years of age, which was sustained by age 53. People from manual social classes also showed increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure over time. The findings highlight the importance of weight control throughout life to preven...
Researchers found that a mutated fruit fly gene controlling hearing produces similar consequences in humans, including hearing loss and limb deformities. The study suggests that hearing may have evolved earlier than previously thought, linking human genetics to those of fruit flies.
McConnell has worked on key aging issues, including employment, retirement, and healthcare. He will be recognized for his work in translating research into practical policy applications.
Dr. Pasupathi was awarded the 2003 Kalish Award by the Gerontological Society of America for her conceptual publication on adult development and its implications for aging. The award recognizes state-of-the-art thinking in this field, demonstrating Dr. Pasupathi's significant contributions to gerontological research.
Researchers developed vaccines based on human and chimpanzee adenoviruses to protect newborns against viral diseases. These oral vaccines have the potential to be effective even with waning maternal antibodies, offering a crucial solution for infants in developing countries.
Researchers have identified neural pathways connecting the prefrontal cortex to the spinal cord and hypothalamus, influencing autonomic responses in complex emotional situations. These findings have implications for conditions such as anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Researchers have developed a new hybrid material with superior insulating properties, which could help address the performance limitations of smaller chip components. The material, called three-ring periodic mesoporous organosilica (PMO), is a porous solid that combines organic and inorganic parts to create a stable molecular assembly.
The ENCODE project aims to build a comprehensive 'parts list' of the human genome by identifying and precisely locating all functional elements. Researchers will use high-throughput methods to analyze large-scale DNA target regions, leading to a deeper understanding of human biology and new strategies for preventing and treating disease.
A study found that physicians have distinct approaches to explaining clinical trials, which can impact patient enrollment. The research suggests that understanding these differences is crucial for improving doctor-patient interactions and overall care.
The Hotplate Total Precipitation Sensor uses a unique approach to measure precipitation rates, providing accurate readings for aviation and transportation applications. This breakthrough technology offers improved public safety and cost savings by reducing the need for manual snow gauges and deicing fluids.
The Rutgers-led MetroMath project aims to develop effective instructional strategies and leverage existing resources to improve math education in urban schools. The center will offer graduate-level seminars, mentored internships, and professional development programs for over 300 teachers.
A new study found that gene expression is robustly associated with behavior in adult honey bee brains, revealing a dynamic genome involved in modulating behavior.
Researchers at the University of Aberdeen and Glasgow aim to analyze biomolecules trapped in rocks dating back millions to billions of years, potentially revealing secrets about life's origin. The three-year initiative will also explore miniaturizing the technique for use on spacecraft traveling to other planets.
The project will model air quality in the US, factoring in climate-driven changes, wildfires, and land use shifts. Researchers aim to better understand how future climate may impact urban and regional air quality.
U. of Washington's Dr. Abrass receives 2003 Freeman Award from the Gerontological Society of America for his outstanding research in geriatric endocrinology and pharmacology. He is also recognized for his excellent clinical care and teaching, particularly at Harborview Medical Center.
Researchers at Cardiff University are exploring a new way to interact with computers using physical objects and acoustic waves. The project, TAI-CHI, aims to create giant 3D touch screens that can be used on any surface.
Carnegie Mellon University has received a grant to develop and implement effective science instruction methods for middle school students at four urban Pittsburgh schools. The project aims to address the significant achievement gap faced by low-income African American children, who historically underperform on science tests.
Researchers have found a new state of matter where bosons condense into a glass-like, metallic state. This discovery contradicts the conventional theory of metals and poses a serious theoretical question about the nature of this intermediate phase.
Purdue University biologists have determined the structure of the West Nile virus, a development that could greatly augment our understanding of the virus' life cycle. The research uses cryoelectron microscopy and advanced imaging techniques to understand how the major surface proteins interact with each other.
Dr. Hong's work has accelerated the pace of growth in cancer prevention research, opening doors to less toxic and more effective chemopreventive agents and regimens. His research has demonstrated the effectiveness of biochemoprevention in reducing both primary and recurrent cancers.
The CHEST Foundation and Eli Lilly and Company Foundation have expanded the Critical Care Family Assistance Program to five additional hospitals. The program provides critical support to families of critically ill patients, including computerized kiosks, staff services, and local accommodations.
A study by Temple University researchers identifies the molecular mechanisms that may assist the tumor-suppressing gene Rb2/p130 in blocking lung cancer cells. The study reveals nearly 70 genes regulated by Rb2, including previously known and unknown targets involved in lung cancer progression.
Research highlights the importance of exercise for older adults, dispelling stereotypes that age means poor health. Regular physical activity can benefit elderly individuals as much as younger people, enabling them to maintain independence and manage daily functions.
A new study conducted in the UK shows that forgiveness is a complex process in the brain, involving multiple cognitive components. The research found that different parts of the brain are activated when making moral judgments, empathizing with someone, and ultimately judging forgivability.
Researchers found that even low levels of ground-level ozone increase asthma symptoms in children with active asthma. A 50 ppb increase in ozone was associated with a 35% increase in wheezing and chest tightness among asthmatic children on maintenance medication.
The Reading Tutor, a Carnegie Mellon-developed AI-powered talking computer, aims to improve reading skills in children. The $6M grant from the NSF will enhance its speech and user modeling technologies to better assess and assist students.
Researchers at the University of Chicago found that sleep improves retention of word learning by consolidating memories and strengthening relevant associations. The study suggests that sleep plays a critical role in retaining what we learn, contradicting previous theories that focused solely on memory consolidation during wakefulness.
Researchers at McGill University Health Centre identify two key gene mutations in French-Canadian families with retinitis pigmentosa. The study reveals variable and severe symptoms, including hearing loss. The breakthrough promises new screening and diagnostic tests for affected families.
Researchers at Purdue University have precisely placed strands of DNA on a silicon chip and stretched them out to read the encoded information more clearly. This step is critical to harnessing the storage capacity of DNA for future computers that could offer advantages in speed, memory capacity, and energy efficiency.
Researchers identified three stages of memory processing: creating memories (6 hours), stabilizing them during sleep, and recalling and refining them. These findings have implications for the treatment of neurological disorders like PTSD.
Researchers found that Canadian forest fires can cause large pulses in atmospheric mercury levels, affecting regions like the northeastern US. The study estimated annual emissions from Canadian forests and worldwide boreal forest fires, suggesting a significant impact on mercury levels.
The PNNL proteomics resource center will utilize automated ultra-high resolution mass spectrometers to study proteins in even a single cell, shedding light on cellular function and disease progression. The center aims to develop new biomarkers for early cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A new method has been developed to study protein folding, allowing scientists to visualize the process at a single molecule level. The technique uses fluorescent dyes and FRET to measure the efficiency of energy transfer between amino acids, providing valuable insights into protein structure and function.
Researchers developed a molecular test that detects residual cancer cells with high accuracy, outperforming standard cytogenetic analysis. The test predicts disease progression and can be used to stratify patients according to their level of remission, potentially shortening clinical trial duration.
A study on forgiveness methodology found a 70% decrease in feelings of hurt, 27% reduction in physical symptoms, and 34% increase in forgiveness for those who participated in the six-week training program. The research, led by Dr. Frederic Luskin, validates the effectiveness of this specific forgiveness approach.
A study at the University of Illinois is investigating the effects of a high-quality animal-based diet versus a mainly plant-based diet on gene expression in dogs. The goal is to identify biomarkers that can predict diabetes and other medical issues in aging overweight dogs and cats.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that postoperative sepsis is the most common treatment-related injury in hospitals, associated with significant increases in length of stay, charges, and mortality. The unintended re-opening of surgically closed wounds was also a major concern, linked to increased hospital stays and costs.
A new Duke study finds that forgiveness, through loving-kindness meditation, reduces back pain and depression in patients with persistent low back pain. The study suggests a strong relationship between forgiveness and pain, including measures of adjustment.
Vanderbilt University is one of nine US sites participating in a phase I trial of the Merck HIV vaccine, designed to test its safety and ability to stimulate immune responses in healthy volunteers. The study aims to generate cellular immune responses that could prevent the virus from spreading in the body.
Researcher Dr. Mitra has developed an optical tomography method to locate lung tumors using short-pulse lasers. The technique yields physiological information with higher resolution and a safer system than traditional methods.