The study characterizes lymphocyte microvilli, dynamic structures that alternate between assembly and disassembly. Disrupting these receptors could lead to a less toxic form of immune suppression and prevent metastasis in cancer cells.
Scientists have created a new technique to write nanometer-scale patterns onto surfaces, extending the capabilities of dip pen nanolithography. The thermal dip pen nanolithography (tDPN) method uses solid inks and special AFM probes with built-in heaters to control ink flow, allowing for precise patterning in vacuum environments.
Temple University professor Sergio Serrano has developed new mathematical procedures to solve complex, non-linear equations of water flow in soils. These techniques will help create more accurate models for flood forecasting and contaminant propagation predictions.
Matthew Bottomley, a researcher at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, has won the 2004 EMBO Science Writing Prize for his captivating article on bioluminescent squid. The prize of 1,500 Euro will be presented to him at the EMBO Members Meeting in October this year.
A recent study by Scott W. Allard found that the welfare-to-work system is struggling to meet the needs of growing areas of poverty, which are increasingly geographically dispersed. The mismatch between service providers and populations in need may worsen under work-first welfare policies.
A new study highlights the long-term efficacy and safety of the angina drug nifedipine GITS, showing it can be used safely for the treatment of patients with coronary disease. The trial found similar mortality rates among those receiving the medication and a placebo, but lower incidence of heart failure and coronary interventions.
A new computational method developed by Widom and colleagues allows scientists to virtually predict the formation of amorphous metals and identify potential mixtures for metallic glass production. This approach has shown promising results in generating metallic glasses with remarkable corrosion resistance, strength, and elasticity.
African-Americans and Asians are less likely to trust the public health system's response to a bioterrorist attack. The UCLA study found that only 63% of African Americans and 68% of Asians/Pacific Islanders believe the system would respond fairly.
A study by University of Washington researchers found that people are less certain about the value of their time compared to money. Consumers tend to rationalize negative experiences when paying with time, but not when using hard-earned cash.
A new Web-based template helps Internet buyers and sellers with clear privacy policies, leading to increased trust and online sales. The study found that shoppers who used the template bought products 33% more often than those presented with standard policy statements.
Researchers have developed a simulation tool to predict the microstructures that form as complex liquid mixtures cool and solidify. The model accurately predicts how impurities and process differences affect crystal formation, enabling manufacturers to design new products with improved strength and durability.
A recent study by Mayo Clinic researchers suggests that patients with minimal or no disability after 10 years of multiple sclerosis (MS) are unlikely to progress and may not need medication. However, those with higher disability scores may still experience worsening symptoms over time.
Researchers analyzed the fruit fly's circadian rhythm to understand its complex dynamic behavior and hierarchical control scheme. They found that the system's architecture determines robustness and fragility, shedding light on how disease can be a failure of a robust biological system.
Researchers at NIST have developed a new method for studying ultrathin polymers, enabling the visualization of defects and structure. The technique uses near-field scanning optical microscopy to analyze the crystal structure and strain in thin-film crystals of polystyrene.
A study found that about 21% of middle-aged Americans have both high blood pressure and high LDL-cholesterol, significantly increasing heart attack risk. The combined effect was 51 cases per 10,000 person-years, much higher than expected.
The ADONIS trial found that dronedarone significantly decreased the risk of a first recurrence of atrial fibrillation or flutter within the 12-month study period by 27.5% compared to placebo. The drug also displayed good cardiac tolerability with no cases of torsades de pointes.
A20, an enzyme that regulates the immune system's response to bacterial infections, prevents over-reactions of the immune system to blood infections known as sepsis. The research shows A20 also controls the immune reaction that can cause inflammatory bowel disease.
A worldwide survey of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation found varying methods, effectiveness, and complications. The study reported a significant increase in procedures, but also noted major complications such as early deaths, strokes, and tamponade.
The EURIDIS trial demonstrated that dronedarone significantly lowers the risk of first recurrence of AF/AFL within the 12-month study period by 21.6% compared to placebo. Dronedarone proved effective for all recurrences of atrial fibrillation or flutter, including those that were symptomatic.
Rimonabant has been shown to improve body weight, waist circumference, lipid profiles, and glycemic control. Patients taking rimonabant 20mg/day lost an average of 8.6kg, while those on placebo gained 4.8kg.
A global study found that nine easily measurable factors predict the majority of heart attack risk, regardless of region or ethnic group. These factors include cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which collectively predict over 90% of heart attack risk.
The final pooled analysis of SPORTIF III and V1,2 confirms ximelagatran's effectiveness in preventing strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation. Ximelagatran offers a safer alternative to warfarin without coagulation monitoring or dose titration, reducing the risk of stroke by 62%.
In a breakthrough study, researchers found that dendritic cells, a type of immune cell, can be co-opted by tumors to promote angiogenesis and tumor growth. The study suggests a new approach to fighting solid tumors by targeting the interaction between angiogenesis and the immune response.
The ACTION study found that adding nifedipine to existing treatments for stable angina reduces the need for hospital interventions by 13% and prevents heart attacks and strokes. Nifedipine also reduces hospitalizations for heart failure in patients with stable angina.
The ICTUS study found that early invasive and selective invasive strategies are equivalent treatment options for patients with nSTE-ACS and elevated cardiac troponin. The study showed higher myocardial infarction rates but fewer rehospitalizations in the early invasive group.
Patients with atrial fibrillation are at increased risk for stroke and clotting complications, yet a significant percentage do not receive recommended clot-preventing medications. Asymptomatic patients should instead receive simple rate controlling drugs like beta-blockers, digitalis or verapamil.
The European Society of Cardiology awarded Ireland's Minister for Health and Children the Gold Medal for his efforts to move cardiovascular disease up the political agenda. The Minister has led initiatives in public health and medical arenas, including heart health promotion and data registration standards.
A possible new Ebola outbreak could lead to the deaths of over 20,000 western lowland gorillas within months if confirmed. The park is home to an estimated 30,000 gorillas, and a study suggests that when Ebola affects an area, more than 80% of great apes die from the disease.
Physicists have demonstrated that their theories are correct in explaining how quarks interact in the beta decay of particles. The team's work marked the first time all relevant measurements were made together in one modern, statistically rigorous experiment.
A review found no reliable scientific evidence supports the use of C. aurantium for weight loss, and high doses may not be safe. The herb interacts with drugs in a manner similar to grapefruit juice, increasing blood levels and potential side effects.
Researchers suggest that hormone levels interact with stress and memory systems to affect cognitive performance. The study used a water maze task, dividing female rats into groups based on their hormone levels and exposure to warm or cold water temperatures.
The chip-scale atomic clock is the world's smallest, consuming less than 75 thousandths of a watt and stable to one part in 10 billion. It has potential uses in wireless communications, GPS receivers, and could replace quartz crystal oscillators in common products with improved time keeping.
A significant reduction of ADHD symptoms was observed among children participating in green outdoor activities, regardless of region or setting. Exposure to ordinary natural settings may offer a widely effective treatment for managing ADHD symptoms.
The Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES) has revealed unexpected patterns and processes in the city's ecosystem, including how plants influence air quality and forest cover affects water quality. Renewed funding will allow researchers to investigate urban ecology discoveries and share findings with educators and decision makers.
Scientists have developed a technique to visualize the electric field of visible light, measuring its variation with unprecedented resolution. This breakthrough enables direct and accurate measurement of ultrabroad-band light pulses, opening doors to new applications in molecular electronics and X-ray lasers.
A study by Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that East Harlem grocery stores were less likely to stock diabetes-friendly foods compared to Upper East Side stores. The research highlights the need for healthier food options in underserved communities.
Basic research on HIV is leading to new therapies that deny initial entry into cells. Fast-moving research on naturally occurring antiviral factors is opening the way for a new class of anti-HIV drugs.
Researchers discovered that Streptococcal bacteria use an enzyme called streptokinase to block the human blood clotting response and spread within the body. The study found that subtle variations in plasminogen genes may explain why some people are more susceptible to strep infections.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have discovered a new category of multi-potent cells called VENT cells, which play a critical role in development and contribute to the formation of various human tissues. The discovery challenges long-held notions about what type of cells form specific types of tissue.
A large-scale study validates the benefits of low-GI diets in rats, showing significant reductions in body fat, blood glucose and insulin levels. The study suggests that glycemic index is an independent factor contributing to major chronic diseases.
A new modeling approach predicts how long pollutants will stay in soil by using a method developed by medicinal chemists to understand chemical interactions with natural organic matter. This tool could help environmental regulators and cleanup consultants make informed decisions about hazardous contaminant persistence and migration.
Researchers discovered that streptokinase, an enzyme produced by Streptococcus, enables its infection in humans while showing minimal activity against other mammals. The study creates a transgenic mouse model for studying human-specific microbes.
A team of scientists at PNNL has observed real-time interactions between single proteins, supporting the 'fly-fishing mechanism' theory. The technique used, single-molecule photon stamping spectroscopy, allows for dynamic measurements of protein dynamics.
Researchers fitted six-week-old tiger cubs with radio collars to study mortality rates and potential improvements. The third generation of radio-collared tigers for the project will enable scientists to track the cubs until they die or their collars fall off.
A Nordic study found statins decrease mortality rate and incidence of cancer over 10-year follow-up. Statin therapy with simvastatin reduced cardiovascular and coronary mortality, with a 17% reduction in cardiovascular mortality.
A Japanese study found that neuraminidase inhibitor oseltamivir-resistant viruses emerged more frequently in children treated for influenza, posing a potential risk of transmission. The research also highlights the need for further investigation into the mechanisms of resistance to prevent and treat future pandemics.
The Clemson University program aims to help undergraduates develop team-building skills, adapt to the industry pace, and understand marketability of their research. With $85,000 grant from NSF, students will collaborate with industry leaders and faculty to gain insights into the school-to-work transition.
Emselex(R) has been proven to improve overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms without causing significant adverse events. The treatment has shown efficacy in reducing urinary urgency and urge incontinence, making it a promising new option for patients.
Researchers at OHSU-VAMC found that estrogen increases regulatory cells and FoxP3 protein, key for fighting autoimmune diseases like MS. The study provides a new mechanism for understanding how pregnancy reduces MS symptoms.
Paediatric research is crucial for disease prevention and treatment, yet data are lacking due to a lack of legislation requiring companies to conduct trials on children. The UK Government's new initiative aims to invest £100 million in research networks but falls short of centre stage for acquiring research-based evidence.
Researchers at McGill University have made a groundbreaking discovery that patients can be infected with more than one type of HIV, which poses significant challenges for treatment and management. The study's findings, published in the August issue of AIDS, suggest that existing drug cocktails may need to be tailored accordingly.
The study identifies special bonding states at silicon / silicon dioxide interfaces, which can be observed due to the structure of a (111)-terminated silicon crystal. Nonlinear-optical spectroscopy provides high interfacial sensitivity, allowing for detailed analysis of oxidation processes.
The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation has awarded UT Southwestern a $12 million grant to continue the Dallas Heart Study, which aims to develop new biotechnology and treatments for heart disease. The study has already made significant discoveries, including identifying key chemical signals that change stem cells into heart cells.
A study of Japanese children with influenza treated with oseltamivir found nearly 20% produced mutant drug-resistant viruses within four days. The study highlights the risk of rapid emergence of resistant flu viruses, threatening a line of defense against deadly diseases.
A new study by Dr Bridgette Sullivan-Taylor of the University of Warwick explores the strategic management implications of global terrorism on international service organizations. The research highlights the impact of terrorism on organizational learning, planning, and decision-making for both business and leisure travelers.
The University of Pittsburgh has received a $10 million federal grant to enhance the quality of life for head and neck cancer patients. Researchers will investigate genetic changes, intracellular signaling proteins, and new treatment strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality from head and neck cancer.
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a process to modify silica aerogels with silicon and transition metal compounds using chemical vapor techniques. This enhancement increases the aerogel's strength by four-fold while retaining its valuable porosity and density characteristics.
The fellowship program, supported by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, provides a unique opportunity for science writers to gain in-depth knowledge and network with top scientists. The program includes transportation, accommodation, and meal costs, as well as a personal mentor.
Researchers have explained puzzling behavior in a high-temperature superconductor by discovering an electronic crystal, where electrons arrange themselves into a neat pattern. This phenomenon occurs in a phase called pseudogap and was observed using a highly sensitive scanning tunneling microscope.
A 56-year-old man with a cancer-induced jawbone removal underwent a new bone grafting procedure, resulting in successful bone remodelling and mineralisation. He regained the ability to chew and enjoyed his first solid meal in 9 years after transplantation.