The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) honors forensic anthropologist Fredy Peccerelli for his work with the Guatemalan Forensic Anthropology Foundation, investigating mass human rights abuses and exhuming thousands of victims' remains. Despite facing death threats and impunity, Peccerelli's work has promoted hu...
Global food safety experts gather to discuss new approaches to assessing risk of microbiological foodborne hazards. The symposium aims to create mathematical models that predict the number of illnesses that can occur and help managers control food safety strategies.
Scientists plan to deploy the Huygens probe to study Titan's lakes, seas, and climate. The moon's thick atmosphere and liquid hydrocarbons will provide a unique environment to understand oceanographic processes and predict climate changes.
The database provides survival rates of people who received cell grafts, helping doctors evaluate the potential risks and benefits of transplantation in treating disorders like leukemia. Researchers can generate hypotheses on the role of donor matching in blood and marrow stem cell transplants with this new resource.
The intelligent design movement argues that life's complexity demands a knowing designer, potentially altering the way science is taught in schools. While differing from scientific creationism, its agenda to weaken or eliminate evolution's teaching in public classrooms remains ambitious.
Researchers have created a computational tool to mine genomic data and identify biologically meaningful gene regulatory networks. The tool uses a probabilistic framework that integrates data from various sources, including microarrays, DNA sequences, and protein-protein interactions.
The AAAS panel on human-nature interactions examines six NSF-supported projects focusing on urban development, Polynesian culture, and shoreline development. Biocomplexity researchers discuss the linkages between human behaviors and natural systems, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and new technologies.
Researchers studying small farms in Kenya found that restoring natural resources can improve agricultural productivity, particularly in villages with high soil degradation. By adopting more fertilizers and other inputs, farmers in a second village showed better economic outcomes.
Researchers studied household land-use strategies in Brazil and the Midwest, finding that crop prices, conservation plans, and state/federal forest protection programs influence decisions. This complexity may make it difficult for policymakers to develop a single, uniform policy for entire regions.
HUPO scientists have created a master proteomics database from human blood plasma, which will help answer key questions about protein identification and analysis. The project's long-term goals include identifying all protein constituents of human blood plasma and determining variation across populations.
University of Minnesota professors Terry Roe, Ronald Phillips, and G. Edward Schuh will discuss topics such as trade disputes, GMO crop plantings, and biosafety protocols at the symposium. The event aims to shed light on the impact of international trade policies on economic growth and institutional reform in less developed countries.
John Staver, a K-State science education professor, argues that intelligent design cannot be considered a scientific theory due to the absence of empirical evidence and rigorous testing. He emphasizes the importance of scientific experimentation and peer review in establishing new scientific ideas.
Kansas State University professor James Stack presents a paper on the National Plant and Diagnostic Network, which uses diagnostic centers, regional labs, and expert databases to rapidly detect and diagnose potential bio threats in crops and livestock. The network has already been effective in detecting natural outbreaks like BSE and s...
Researchers found that lake classification systems can increase property value by protecting lakes from overdevelopment and preserving environmental quality. In Vilas County, Wisconsin, homeowners who adopted a lake classification system saw significant increases in property prices due to their commitment to environmental preservation.
Researchers found that even delayed responses to smallpox cases could still contain the outbreak through targeted vaccination and isolation. Surveillance and containment were more effective than mass vaccination in controlling the spread of smallpox.
Research by Ann Bostrom reveals that people's willingness to accept vaccine risks depends on what they do and don't know. Personal experiences with adverse reactions also impact risk perception. The study highlights the need for both technical analysis and deliberation in decision-making processes.
Research suggests that gas hydrates, formed in deep-sea sediments, contain massive amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. These hydrates can charge and discharge variable amounts of methane constantly, responding to factors not yet understood. This finding necessitates a revised view of the carbon cycle.
A two-year study found that quetiapine treatment resulted in statistically significant improvements in positive, negative and depressive symptoms. Patients also showed notable enhancements in quality of life, with minimal reported side effects.
New acoustic tracking technology provides detailed knowledge of fish movement and habitat use, enabling the design of effective conservation measures. Small reserves can effectively protect adult fish populations, while larger reserves may be more beneficial for overall marine biodiversity.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science recommends physicians consider risk factors and prevention options when prescribing hormone replacement therapy. Women with a high risk of chronic diseases may benefit from alternative treatments, while those with menopause-related symptoms may still be suitable candidates for HRT.
The Georgia Institute of Technology's NSF ADVANCE program is addressing subtle inequities that affect women's advancement in academia. The research-driven approach focuses on how environments shape positive or negative outcomes, with a emphasis on improving collaboration, equitable evaluations, and access to tacit knowledge.
A novel laser technique has been developed to identify and quantify toxic molecules, such as trichloroethylene, in the environment. The method enables quantitative studies of real-world surface processes without requiring ultrahigh vacuum conditions.
Researchers suggest that a person's sleep/wake cycle, also called the circadian rhythm, may be linked to their cancer prognosis. Disrupted circadian rhythms can lead to reduced melatonin production, which can spur cancer-causing mutations in cells.
The NHLBI's Specialized Centers of Clinically Oriented Research program aims to improve treatment and outcomes for children with congenital heart defects by fostering multidisciplinary collaborations. The $68 million grant will support five new centers, each addressing a critical public health need in pediatric cardiovascular research.
ATLAS reduces anabolic steroid use among male adolescent athletes in schools nationwide. ATHENA aims to reduce eating disorders and drug use among young female sport teams. Both programs have been designated national models and are easy to implement.
A new book by Sue V. Rosser identifies obstacles preventing women engineers and scientists from advancing in academia, including balancing work and family responsibilities. The study reveals that women faculty members are crucial for attracting and retaining female graduate students.
A team of scientists has tracked over 1,000 bluefin tunas and over 200 bluefin tuna in the Pacific Ocean using electronic tags. The data reveal extensive migrations of these fish across entire ocean basins.
Researchers at Immerge have identified that human-tropic PERV is acquired during life, rather than being present in the germ-line DNA of mini-swine. The study found no viruses in the germ-line DNA that could infect human cells, paving the way for safer xenotransplantation procedures.
The grant aims to develop novel strategies for improving pediatric heart transplant outcomes by linking basic science advances to clinical protocols. The three clinical projects focus on enhancing graft acceptance, preventing post-transplant tumors and identifying genetic markers predictive of individual transplant outcomes.
Researchers at National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offer guidelines for preserving CDs and DVDs. Handling discs with care and storing them in a cool, dark environment can help extend their lifespan. A quick reference guide to the research group's findings is available on NIST's website.
Researchers have developed a portable cooling system that weighs just several pounds and can detect chemical and biological toxins using miniature sensors. These devices use microchannels to enhance heat transfer or chemical reactions, enabling better process control and overall miniaturization of systems.
The Emory-AUC FIRST consortium is one of six US programs linking top-ranked minority-serving institutions with research institutions. The program provides training and mentorship for postdoctoral fellows, increasing diversity in academia and industry.
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), passed in 1970, has had a significant impact on US environmental policy and is now being revisited in its midlife. NEPA's strength lies in giving groups the power to oppose local projects that may threaten the environment, such as highway development.
A UCL study found that both maternal and romantic love activate specific brain regions involved in the reward system, while reducing activity in systems for negative judgments. The research also showed similar mechanisms of love in animals and humans, linking them to oxytocin and vasopressin.
Studies find that prenatal exposure to lead, alcohol, and anesthetic drugs can cause brain damage in young adults. Research suggests that these substances trigger apoptosis, a form of cell death, by interfering with neural connections.
The new standard provides detailed guidance on categorizing systems and assessing potential impact of security breaches. It will help agencies make informed decisions and implement cost-effective security measures, complemented by a companion standard specifying minimum federal system requirements.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found significant disparities in mammography screening rates among racial and ethnic minorities. The study revealed that women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and those without health insurance were less likely to receive screenings. Effective strategies include access-enhancing effort...
Dr. Latanya Sweeney's research focuses on de-identifying medical data to share for bio-terrorism surveillance while maintaining individual privacy protection. Her 'Privacert De-identification' software provides easy-to-use automated tools to render data sufficiently anonymous, preventing potential abuses.
The US will need to invest $450 billion in conventional electric infrastructure to meet growing demand by 20 years, but a smart energy approach can reduce this cost. By leveraging info tech, PNNL engineers aim to minimize new infrastructure, lower rates, and enhance grid security.
The CONSTANS protein plays a central role in triggering flowering in plants, accumulating in the nuclei of cells under long days but not in short days. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have discovered that specific photoreceptors detect blue and far-red light to stabilize CONSTANS protein, allowing it to activate flowering genes.
Scientists warn that coral reefs are facing a 'crisis' due to human-caused climate change, threatening biodiversity and economic benefits. Rising CO2 levels and warmer waters cause coral bleaching and ocean acidification, devastating reef ecosystems.
Research suggests that exposure to even small amounts of alcohol or anesthetics can trigger brain cell suicide, leading to permanent cognitive impairment. The findings support the idea that fetal alcohol syndrome is a result of toxic effects on the developing human brain.
Scientists investigate iron fertilization to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by boosting phytoplankton photosynthesis. However, the process is hindered by zooplankton consumption and limited sinking of plant material.
Infants begin to grasp intentional action in the first year, understanding actions as goal-directed and recognizing invisible connections between people and objects. This early knowledge lays the foundation for later developments in understanding intentions.
Researchers are developing functional nanoparticles that can be linked to biological molecules, enabling rapid analysis of biopsy tissue from cancer patients. These nanoprobes using quantum dots can monitor the effectiveness of drug therapy and deliver controlled amounts of drugs into genetically classified tumor cells.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute solved the structure of a regulatory protein that controls gene expression by recognizing specific RNA sequences. The discovery provides valuable insights into post-transcriptional gene regulation and its potential to target diseases such as inflammation.
A new generation of researchers will unravel the Earth's complexity using powerful cyberinfrastructure tools. This includes advanced data analysis, intelligent sensing systems and collaborative platforms.
A recent study found that stress affects men and women differently when it comes to nicotine addiction and relapse. Women experience greater emotional side effects, while men struggle with biological changes during abstinence. The study also revealed that cortisol levels play a crucial role in triggering cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Researchers at NIST collaborate with industry partners to devise rapid screening and measurement methods for new epoxies, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and other high-value products. A miniaturized test platform utilizing micro-lens technology is designed to screen hundreds of adhesive formulations in an automated process.
A study found that caffeine consumption can heighten feelings of stress in men, particularly when working on collaborative tasks. However, caffeine also reduced ratings of stress in women and improved performance in some individuals. The researchers suggest that coffee breaks may backfire in business situations, especially for men.
Researchers have developed heat-actuated lightweight and compact cooling technology capable of sustaining manageable temperatures for several hours. The system can weigh as little as three to four pounds, providing relief from extreme conditions, and is expected to benefit both military and commercial applications.
Researchers are testing a new flu vaccine that delivers the vaccine in the nose to observe differences in immune system reactions. The study aims to improve immunity in the respiratory tract for all pathogens, with implications for biodefense.
Agricultural ecologist David Pimentel warns of unimaginable malnutrition and human misery by 2054 if current trends continue. The world's growing population is putting pressure on resources like cropland, fresh water, and energy, threatening food production.
The effects of Asian pollution on US air quality can be dramatic, raising health issues for those with respiratory problems. Small particulates as small as 10 microns can pass through the nose and into the respiratory system, causing noticeable health effects.
Researchers have created a genetic map of purebred dogs, revealing how breeds evolved and inherited traits. The study also found that similar trade-offs in genetics are present in both dogs and modern foxes.
A team of astronomers has discovered 13 distant quasars, providing valuable insights into the early universe. The most ancient quasars are thought to have formed right along with supermassive black holes, suggesting a rapid transition from the cosmic dark ages to the cosmic renaissance.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is holding a single competition for Research and Development (R&D) projects, with approximately $30 million in funding available. Public meetings will be held across the country to provide information on the competition, project selection criteria, and eligibility requirements.
A new study finds aromatase inhibitors can significantly reduce endometriosis severity and pain, offering a more effective treatment with fewer side effects. The treatment involves taking letrozole along with progestin for six months, resulting in improved symptoms and reduced estrogen production.
Researchers placed modified radio transmitter modules within a high-rise before demolition and found that 10 of the 14 modules continued broadcasting after the structure was destroyed. The study aims to develop technology allowing emergency personnel to locate survivors by locking onto cell phone or radio signals in collapsed buildings.
Research shows that regional governments can effectively curb air pollution by working with neighboring countries to monitor and address the issue. Local involvement in solving global environmental problems is critical, as many of the same activities causing global climate change also produce local pollution. Experts believe that regio...