Researchers have found that alcohols, which are not typically considered good lubricants, can work effectively in tiny machines. The discovery could lead to the development of gas-delivered liquid thin films that regenerate sensors and allow recycling of air bag mechanisms, improving efficiency and reducing power dissipation.
Researchers at Ohio State University developed a bioreactor that increases propionic acid production by 50% and reduces unwanted byproducts. The device uses fibers to anchor cells in place, allowing them to grow and evolve in a harsh environment.
Researchers from the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have developed a novel approach to gene therapy that harnesses mesenchymal progenitor cells (MSC) to target cancer metastasis. The strategy has shown promising results in animal studies, with MSC gene therapy curing up to 70% of mice implanted with human ovarian cancer.
A study found that equol, a natural metabolite from soy isoflavones, blocks the effects of DHT without altering testosterone levels, reducing prostate size in rats. This molecule may offer a treatment for BPH and prostate cancer, as well as promoting healthy skin and hair growth.
A recent study published in The Journal of Pain found that women are more sensitive to pain than men, while African-Americans and Whites report similar levels of pain when using standardized rating scales. Researchers tested 135 participants aged 25-45 and used modified rating scales to account for cultural differences.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a potent way to shut down viruses by introducing harmless molecules that mimic the virus's growth machinery, outperforming traditional antiviral strategies in inhibiting viral growth and creating drug-resistant strains.
A Virginia Tech undergraduate, Cindy Schreiber, developed a PCR machine that rapidly identifies mismatched base pairings and mutations in DNA samples. The machine also automates the process, making it more efficient and cost-effective for high school and undergraduate labs.
Researchers have developed a new class of hyperbranched polymers with excellent mechanical properties and lower viscosities. These polymers can be easily processed and are suitable for various applications such as fuel cell materials, biocompatible elastomers and photo-curable adhesives.
Scientists have engineered a tobacco plant to produce a toxin derived from the defense system of the flesh fly, which has shown promise in repelling parasitic weeds. The toxin, sarcotoxin IA, is produced only where the parasite attacks the host and accumulates more on the parasite than on the host.
Researchers found a strong association between monkey virus DNA and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, suggesting the virus could play a role in its development. The study suggests that targeting the virus could help prevent its development and offers new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a new paclitaxel analog that is more effective than the natural compound in killing cancer cells. The analog has been shown to be up to 20 times more active in one assay and three times more deadly to cancer cells than current treatments.
A recent UMHS study found that black men with moderate-grade prostate cancer are 36% less likely to receive treatment than white men. Hispanic men also face disparities in treatment, with 16% fewer chances of receiving definitive therapy compared to white men.
A new progesterone receptor antagonist may reduce tumor mass in patients with breast cancer, while a plant virus-based vaccine shows promise in preventing cervical and breast cancers. The novel vaccines aim to block the initial infection of HPV viruses that cause these cancers.
The emergence of Brood X cicadas in May will result in some damage to fruit trees and prized yard trees and shrubs. Gardeners, vintners, and farmers are advised to cover vulnerable plants with netting to prevent damage.
Researchers have found that higher serum levels of vitamin E are associated with lower risks of prostate and bladder cancers. In contrast, a diet rich in antioxidants is linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer among women with specific genetic profiles.
Researchers found that COX-2 over-expression promotes loss of basement membrane in ovarian epithelium cells, leading to disorganization and cancer. The study suggests COX-2 inhibitors may prevent cancer development by reducing basement membrane loss.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new biomaterial that can promote cell growth and differentiation, potentially aiding in the repair of human tissue. The self-assembling protein gel is made from genetically engineered modular proteins that can be mixed to create different types of hydrogels for specific applications.
Researchers found a direct correlation between honey consumption and elevated polyphenolic antioxidants in human plasma. The study's findings support existing evidence that honey may provide protective antioxidant compounds, contributing to overall health.
Researchers developed a method to create well-defined carbon nanoparticles using polyacrylonitrile copolymers. The approach enables the production of discrete carbon nanostructures with applications in energy storage/conversion devices and display technologies.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a novel method using ultrasound from a household humidifier to create complex nanocomposite materials. The technique produces porous nanospheres and encapsulated nanoparticles with potential applications in catalytic reactions, drug delivery, and molecular sieves.
Researchers have discovered the role of cadherin 23 protein in the mechanotransduction process that converts sound waves into electrical signals. The study provides insights into Usher syndrome and age-related hearing loss, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for treating deafness.
New nanotech imaging techniques offer improved precision in detecting tumors, including lymphatic drainage imaging for breast cancer, and molecular fingerprints for prostate and ovarian cancer. These advancements aim to improve diagnosis and treatment options for cancer patients.
Researchers have developed composite fibers containing varying percentages of carbon nanotubes, which can double stiffness, reduce shrinkage by 50%, and improve solvent resistance. Breaking up nanotube bundles could make these materials more accessible for commercial products.
A new study by Southern Methodist University researchers has found that nanoparticles, specifically buckyballs, can cause significant brain damage in fish within 48 hours. The study's lead author suggests further testing and assessment of the risks and benefits of these nanoparticles before their widespread use.
A new imaging probe detects small tumors in the brain, providing crucial information to surgeons during operations. The technology uses near-infrared fluorescence optical imaging to identify tumor margins and improve surgical treatment.
A recent study has revealed a connection between FAP, a protein involved in tadpole tail resorption, and accelerated tumor growth in humans. Researchers found that producing high levels of FAP in the tumor microenvironment promotes cancer growth. The study also explores the potential use of antibodies to block FAP's action.
Nanoparticles are designed to detect specific molecules and transport them using an electric field, allowing for accurate sensing. The device uses microscopic needles to take up tissue fluid and mix it with nanoparticles, which then move the samples to a detection area.
By blocking the activity of enzyme Icmt, researchers can prevent mutant Ras from developing and causing uncontrolled cell growth. This breakthrough may lead to new therapies for various types of cancer, including pancreatic, ovarian, colon, and lung cancers.
A team of Virginia Tech researchers is assessing the reliability of measuring photos of fossils to compile body size data. They found that while the method has some bias, it can still be useful in answering important questions about the history of life.
A new method for studying pollution history using shell remains has been developed, allowing scientists to track environmental changes without harming endangered species. By analyzing geochemical and taphonomic signatures of dead mussel shells, researchers can determine the impact of pollution on ecosystems and track population decline.
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at increased risk of nonvertebral fractures from high-dose inhaled corticosteroid treatment. Researchers also found greater acetaminophen use linked to newly diagnosed asthma in women. Air pollution exposure worsens cystic fibrosis patients' pulmonary exacerbations.
Researchers at U of T's Molecular Design and Information Technology Centre have created the first small molecules that bind to the insulin receptor, paving the way for oral insulin development. The breakthrough could lead to a new treatment option for over two million Canadians with diabetes.
Cryptosporidium is missing two critical organelles commonly found in related protozoan parasites, including the apicoplast and mitochondrion. This discovery provides valuable opportunities to study the organism's biology and develop targeted treatments.
Rigoberto Advincula, a UH professor, receives the Doolittle Award for his presentation and development of scientific content in his paper on polymer adsorption phenomena. The award is significant to researching new materials with practical applications in adhesives, coatings, and lubricants.
A research team led by University of Maine scientists has documented that treating a watershed with additional acids accelerates the loss of critical nutrients calcium and magnesium. The experimentally induced nutrient depletion highlights the impact of acid rain on Maine's forests.
A study comparing French and British pension systems reveals that France's ARRCO organization provides secure pension guarantees through a national umbrella structure. In contrast, the UK's reliance on private sector pensions has led to inadequate protection for women and vulnerable workers.
A new method for determining protein structure uses a supercomputer chip to analyze forces between atoms, reducing computation time by a factor of 1000. This technique is particularly useful for studying proteins that are difficult to crystallize, allowing scientists to gain more insights into their functions.
Scientists study quasi-one-dimensional cuprates to understand how electrons respond to x-rays, revealing a unique separation of electric and magnetic fields.
Diabetic women carrying two copies of the haptoglobin-2 gene are at risk of accelerated artery narrowing when taking antioxidant vitamins C and E. In contrast, those carrying the haptoglobin-1 variant experience a decreased rate of atherosclerosis when taking these vitamins.
Research by Professor Christopher Martin and Dr George Bratsiotis finds that monetary policy significantly reduces unemployment rates. The studies suggest that wage rises have a greater detrimental impact on employment levels when monetary policies aim to stabilize inflation, contradicting union views.
Researchers used quantitative data to analyze the evolution of acritarchs, a group of ancient microfossils. They found that complexity increased over time but leveled off, with post-Ediacaran acritarchs reaching high levels of morphological complexity but not large sizes.
A human genome-wide RNAi library has been developed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, enabling companies to identify and validate target genes for new drugs. The library targets over 10,000 human genes with sequence-validated short hairpin RNA molecules.
Researchers found no signs of impending brain injury from fetal heart rate monitoring, highlighting the need for alternative diagnostic methods. White matter brain injury is a common cause of cerebral palsy, but current monitoring systems may not be effective in detecting it.
Researchers observed that atoms vibrate and emit phonons, which do not dissipate quickly like usual, leading to potential new applications for a phaser device. The discovery may contribute to the development of a laser-like device that emits sound waves instead of light.
Researchers discovered a new gene, GPR56, responsible for bilateral frontoparietal polymicrogyria, a genetic disorder affecting brain development. The study suggests GPR56 may have played a key role in the evolution of the frontal lobes and human cognitive function.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have successfully produced infrared light from carbon nanotubes by applying electrical voltages. The discovery paves the way for potential applications in lighting and flat-panel displays due to the exceptional mechanical strength of carbon nanotubes.
The study used high-resolution commercial imagery from the IKONOS satellite to simulate future development scenarios in the Washington-Baltimore metropolitan area. It found a 39% increase in developed land between 1986 and 2000, with significant changes around the Dulles Airport area.
Researchers use computer methods and electron microscopy to understand how molecular machines interact and work together in cells. By building assembly plans for individual machines, they can connect them to form a network, providing insights into cellular structures and functions.
A new study suggests that male circumcision may protect against HIV-1 infection by removing the foreskin's high density of specific cellular targets. The study found a highly significant and specific protective effect of male circumcision on HIV-1 acquisition rates, but no protective effect against other STIs.
The Charleston earthworks, built in 1862-1863, are gradually eroding at a rate of about five millimeters a year. Researchers have been documenting the pattern and rate of this degradation to better understand natural hillslope evolution.
Research shows quality of information and empathy from healthcare providers are crucial in receiving bad news about pregnancy complications. Women want clear facts, options, and follow-up care details, as well as privacy and emotional support.
A large-scale re-analysis of data from 53 studies suggests that pregnancies ending in miscarriage or induced abortion do not increase the risk of developing breast cancer. The findings contradict previous, less reliable studies that suggested a potential link between abortion and breast cancer.
Case researchers substantiated a bacterial link to preterm birth through mouse studies, finding that Fusobacterium nucleatum from the mouth can reach the sterile womb environment. Periodontal disease and pregnancy compromise the immune system, allowing bacteria to target the placenta.
Dr. David P. Siderovski, an assistant professor at UNC School of Medicine, has been awarded the John J. Abel Award for his groundbreaking research on RGS proteins that accelerates cell signaling pathway shutdown. The award honors his contributions to drug target discovery and development.
The UK pension system is under pressure as an aging population and changes in private provision impact state and individual savings. The current system appears sustainable due to reduced generosity and reliance on means-testing, but may face challenges if people reduce private savings.
Researchers created an effective domestic violence intervention program, increasing resource use among patients and referrals to social workers. Higher body mass index before pregnancy also increases the risk of preeclampsia, with a two-fold risk at a BMI of 26 compared to 21.
A recent report by the WHO and FAO recommends restricting free sugars to less than 10% of total energy, providing scientific justification for global strategies. Dr Jim Mann's research suggests that sucrose and other free sugars contribute significantly to the global obesity epidemic, highlighting the importance of reducing sugar intake.
The Lancet editorial highlights the need for a population-based approach to reducing drinking. Primary care is crucial in identifying and managing alcohol-related problems, but current strategies lack resources and training. A coordinated funded strategy involving primary-care providers is necessary to address this issue.
A study published in The Journal of Cognitive Rehabilitation found that computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation improved treatment response for individuals with substance abuse. Participants who received the rehabilitation program stayed longer in treatment and had higher graduation rates compared to those who did not receive it.
The completed genome sequence of Cryptosporidium parvum provides new insights into the parasite's genetic makeup and biochemical pathways. This information can be used to develop early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment strategies for humans and animals affected by the parasite.