Research reveals high levels of toxic contaminants in New England rivers, affecting aquatic life and human health. Streams draining even small amounts of urban land show signs of degradation, while fish from rural areas accumulate higher mercury levels.
A new triple-vaccine strategy has been shown to stimulate a strong HIV-specific immune response in monkeys, demonstrating its potential as an improved method of protection against the virus. The approach uses a series of three vaccines that build on each other to generate a stronger immune response than might otherwise be possible.
Geologist John Hooke estimates that humans move approximately 45 gigatons of soil and rock annually, surpassing the movement of rivers, glaciers, and oceans. This significant displacement has environmental implications, including acid mine drainage and river sedimentation, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.
A new study by Stanford Medicine found that children with obese parents are at the highest risk of becoming overweight. The researchers identified several key risk factors, including parental obesity, low sleep time, and sensitive temperament, which can be addressed through early intervention programs.
A nationwide survey found that approximately 11 million people in the US have food allergies, with shellfish being the most commonly reported severe allergy in adults. The study also revealed that seafood allergies often begin later in life, with a prevalence of at least 2.5% among adults and 0.8% among children.
The University of California - Irvine has launched the nation's first medical education program focused on Latino culture, providing a unique training experience for future physicians. The Program in Medical Education for the Latino Community (PRIME-LC) combines medical-school training with post-graduate work in environmental health, s...
Physicists from a global team at Boston University have discovered neutrino oscillation and mass, modifying the Standard Model. The findings show a prominent dip in atmospheric neutrino data consistent with the theory of neutrino mixing.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new technique called chromatin array, which provides a detailed picture of gene activation and expansion. This technology allows for the detection of genes that are not accessible using traditional RNA microarrays, enabling scientists to study previously inaccessible genes.
Researchers identified Mpdz gene as key player in physical dependence and withdrawal from sedative-hypnotic drugs. The study found that higher expression of Mpdz correlated with reduced susceptibility to drug withdrawal seizures.
A study found that patients who received bone marrow stem-cell transfer showed a 7% improvement in left-ventricular function, compared to a 0.7% increase for those given medical therapy. Larger trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness of this approach in treating cardiovascular disease.
Researchers discovered that Pre-Columbian mural paintings in Mesoamerica contain information about the pre-recorded past magnetic field. Coastal areas experience 'breathing' due to sea tides, affecting aquifer air flow. Drift waves in the Earth's ionosphere may cause breakdown of magnetic structures. A generalized law for aftershocks e...
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a way to channel and focus light beams on a chip using artificial materials with tiny grooves and holes. This breakthrough could revolutionize the design of the first optical computers, which struggle to overcome constraints due to the need for efficient wire replacement.
Researchers investigate auditory brainstem responses for early detection of ototoxic hearing loss, as well as sensory rehabilitation methods such as obstacle avoidance training, blind rehabilitation, and constraint-induced therapy. These studies aim to minimize or prevent debilitating hearing loss and improve mobility function in indiv...
A study found that genetically modified mice lacking SAP gene develop normal immune functions despite pristane exposure, which typically induces lupus-like symptoms. The researchers suggest targeting SAP for treatment may be an ideal approach to developing new drug treatments for autoimmune diseases.
A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that Asian bird flu viruses, such as H5N1, became highly pathogenic through continued circulation and gene swapping in domestic ducks in southern China. The researchers warn that control of poultry outbreaks is crucial to prevent the virus from evolving into a human pandemic.
A new study by UNC researchers reveals that primary-care doctors who received comprehensive smoking cessation intervention training during residency are more likely to continue using these methods in their medical practice years later. The long-term effects of such training on physician behavior have significant implications for public...
The nematode C. elegans prefers 6% oxygen, which helps it survive in environments with low oxygen. The worm's oxygen sensors are similar to those used by humans and other animals to detect nitric oxide.
Using guinea pigs, researchers increased production of G-protein Gem, which decreased calcium current densities by 30-90% and helped steady irregular heartbeats. Gene therapy shows promise as an alternative to calcium channel blockers with fewer side effects.
Nine UCSD students are conducting nine-week research projects in Japan, Taiwan, and Australia through the Pacific Rim Undergraduate Experiences (PRIME) program. They will work with local researchers to develop their skills in cyberinfrastructure and cultural understanding.
Two new books by the United Nations University provide a guide for developing countries to promote technology-based enterprises. The studies analyze factors that enabled select countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea to expand their high-tech exports. Key findings highlight the importance of science, technology, and industr...
Warren Pharmaceuticals has synthesized molecules exhibiting only tissue-protective effects of EPO, with no impact on the classical EPO receptor. These compounds show promise in treating various diseases including stroke, spinal cord compression, diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, and congestive heart failure.
Researchers at Michigan State University have devised new ways to understand the impact of AIDS on families in rural Africa. The study shows that the disease is not always devastating, but rather cripples some families while leaving others with a better chance of enduring.
Scientists successfully isolated human periodontal ligament stem cells, which have shown tremendous potential to regenerate the periodontal ligament and cementum. The stem cells were able to form dense tissue in rodent models, with eight out of 13 transplants producing a mixture of cementum and periodontal ligament.
Researchers have successfully generated nerve precursor cells from adult skin cells using a two-step process involving soluble agents called growth factors. This breakthrough raises the possibility of generating nerve cells from an individual's own skin cells, overcoming issues of rejection.
A Stanford study reveals that shared genetic data can be linked to individuals through common DNA sites, raising concerns over patient anonymity. The researchers propose firewalls and secure access controls to protect sensitive genetic information.
Researchers engineered mutations to 700 yeast genes and used computerized analysis to predict gene functions. The developed yeast strains are now commercially available for other researchers.
The field of stem-cell research faces challenges in winning public support due to limited clinical benefits. Scientists are urged to step forward and lead a debate about the potential benefits and costs of working with stem cells.
Researchers have identified a potential molecular target to halt the spread of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common cause of cervical cancer. By targeting specific RNA molecules that produce proteins driving cellular proliferation, HPV-infected cells may be eradicated, offering new treatment options.
International bodies have struggled to agree on separating stem-cell research from reproductive cloning laws. Dr. Carol A Tauer argues that each issue should be argued on its own merits. Scientists shy away from controversial areas due to unclear funding policies, and the EU needs to break its stalemate for progress.
Researchers have identified a naturally occurring genetic difference controlling brain serotonin production, which may explain psychiatric disorders and influence patient responses to SSRIs. The discovery sets the stage for new insights into the role of the serotonin enzyme and gene in animal behavior and human disorders.
Two projects aim to study angiogenesis and anti-angiogenic therapy, as well as the interaction between hormones and growth factors in prostate tumor growth. The ultimate goal is to develop new treatment strategies that suppress metastases by prolonging dormant states.