Researchers are developing saliva testing technology to detect diseases like cancer, predict cavities, and identify drug use. Preliminary results show that analyzing protein sugars in saliva can determine an individual's vulnerability to cavities.
Scientists have detected over 50 gamma-ray flashes per day, with energies comparable to those emitted by black holes and neutron stars. The exact mechanism behind these bursts remains uncertain, but researchers suspect it involves lightning discharges and electric fields in the upper atmosphere.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh successfully trained a monkey to feed itself using a child-sized robotic arm controlled by its own brain signals. The breakthrough technology uses tiny electrodes and specialized algorithms to interpret brain activity and guide the arm's movements.
A recent study found that nicotine can eliminate the differences in brain activity between men and women during hostile or impulsive acts. Brain imaging research conducted by UCI showed that when participants were given nicotine, the brain-metabolism activity was virtually identical for both sexes.
A new mapping effort captures most common human genetic variation across European American, African American, and Han Chinese American ancestry. The research provides a tool for exploring the causal role of common DNA variation in complex human traits.
Researchers have developed two novel robotic devices inspired by the movement of worms and slugs, including an endoscopic device that can navigate complex spaces and a gripping device that can pick up soft objects without damaging them. The devices aim to reduce discomfort and increase compliance during medical procedures.
Researchers found that brain center's neurons encoded learning associated with taste stimuli, revealing different circuitry for processing rewarding and aversive stimuli. The study supports the idea that individual NAc neurons play a role in aversion and Pavlovian learning.
Researchers at the University of Iowa have discovered a link between Saturn's radio emissions and its bright auroras. The findings indicate that strong radio emissions from Saturn's aurora are similar to those on Earth, suggesting a connection between the two.
A new software developed for the U.S. Marine Corps helps organizations prioritize resources and allocate funds to protect critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks. The system considers factors such as protecting people, mission importance, and acceptable risks.
Dr. Michael J. Balick was honored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his tireless efforts to promote scientific collaboration in ethnobotany. He received the award for preserving traditional knowledge and supporting local scientists, as well as his research on plant domestication and conservation.
A study of 750 women in spontaneous labor found no significant difference in C-section rates between those receiving spinal and systemic opioids. Early epidural analgesia was also associated with shorter labors and lower pain scores.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have found changes in blood vessel chemistry that may explain how estrogen increases the risk of heart disease in older women. Estrogen targets nitric oxide synthase, producing a powerful age-promoting oxygen-free radical instead of making nitric oxide.
Researchers found that the Good Behavior Game reduced aggressive behavior and improved academic achievement, particularly among high-risk boys, with lower rates of criminal activity and delinquency.
Researchers developed T cells targeting Epstein Barr virus antigens to treat advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Six out of ten patients remained disease-free after treatment, with some experiencing partial remission.
Eric Lander, a prominent genomics researcher, has been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to the public. He is credited with helping to educate the public about the Human Genome Project and its implications for society.
A study led by Hopkins researchers found that providing packets of antibiotics or mailing medication directly to partners significantly reduced re-infections with gonorrhea and Chlamydia. The expedited approach resulted in a 68% decrease in re-infections with gonorrhea and an 18% decrease overall, when results for both diseases were co...
Researchers found that getting an epidural when the cervix is less than four centimeters dilated does not increase the cesarean delivery rate and provides significantly better pain relief. The study also showed shorter labors in the early epidural group compared to those who received standard narcotics.
Clemson University has received a $856,000 grant to develop more efficient methods for producing hydrogen. The team proposes thermochemical processes that require heat and complex chemical reactions to split water into its two elements, hydrogen and oxygen. These processes could potentially replace the classic electrolysis method, whic...
The report reveals that nearly 2.9 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in Europe in 2004, with lung cancer being the most common form. Breast cancer is also on the rise, while stomach cancer rates are falling. The study emphasizes the need for a joint European effort to combat these diseases.
Researchers found that when individual insects were removed from their groups, they suffered high mortality rates due to predation. In contrast, group-traveling insects remained relatively safe, suggesting that band formation provides a protective advantage.
Researchers identify mitochondria as key players in programmed cell death (apoptosis), a process essential for life and necessary for neural system development. The study reveals that mitochondrial fragmentation is required for cells to die, providing a unified understanding of cell death across species.
Researchers found that RF ablation was a safe and effective treatment option for early-stage liver cancer patients, with survival rates comparable to surgical resection. The procedure proved more successful with smaller tumors, offering a viable alternative for inoperable patients.
Researchers at ASU have identified a suite of five molecules called polyenal lipochromes that color parrot plumage red. These pigments are unique to parrots and provide their vibrant colors, challenging previous assumptions about bird coloration.
The biotech industry is thriving in terms of scientific breakthroughs, but struggling to translate these advances into marketable treatments. Industry experts suggest that investing in new business strategies and measures that support innovation would be more effective than solely focusing on research.
Researchers discovered a single genetic difference between rats susceptible and resistant to apomorphine, leading to reduced activity of the g-secretase enzyme. This imbalance was found to be associated with behavioral differences in the rats.
Rhonda Hughes, a mathematics professor at Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, has mentored 57 women and minority students to earn graduate degrees in mathematics. Jagannathan Sankar, Professor of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering at North Carolina A&T State University, facilitated the mentorship of 46 Ph.D. students, including 22 unde...
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center discovered a protein called Ngal that can protect mice from renal failure after injection, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic tool. The study also found Ngal to be an effective marker for early diagnosis of kidney failure.
A team of researchers from Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the University of Washington designed a novel protein with atomic-level accuracy using computer-aided design. The breakthrough allows for the exploration of previously unseen regions of the protein universe, opening up new possibilities for studying protein-folding energetics.
The oldest known fossils of Homo sapiens have been found in Ethiopia and date back to 195,000 years ago. This pushes the emergence of anatomically modern humans back by approximately 30,000 years, with implications for our understanding of human cultural development.
Researchers identified an inherited gene variant associated with a 50% increased risk of prostate cancer, revealing a new pathway for the disease's development. The study found that individuals carrying this variant face a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
Deep-sea tubeworms have adapted to thrive near hydrothermal vents by binding hydrogen sulfide molecules with zinc ions in their hemoglobin. This discovery could lead to the development of new oxygen carriers and medical applications.
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Dr. Maxine Singer has made significant contributions to advancing science, scientific achievements, and services to the scientific community. She was recognized with the 2004 AAAS Philip Hauge Abelson Prize for her tireless advocacy for biomedical research and public trust in the scientific enterprise.
NASA's Mars Exploration Rovers and the Cassini-Huygens Mission will be discussed, highlighting new discoveries and future exploration plans. The AAAS annual meeting also features presentations on climate change, urban decision-making, and revolutionary engine architectures.
The Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee has played a central role in developing responsible research practices and establishing criteria for the safe use of recombinant DNA technology. The committee's work has enhanced opportunities within modern genetics and influenced the conduct of science globally.
A study on young zebra finches reveals that dramatic degradation in song quality occurs after waking up from sleep, only to improve with morning rehearsal. Ultimately, better singers have poorer post-sleep deterioration of song development.
New research by UT Southwestern scientists reveals complexity in organization of synaptic vesicles within individual synapses, challenging long-held assumptions about neurotransmitter release. Two distinct types of synaptic vesicles are found to be responsible for spontaneous and activity-dependent release, which may aid in understandi...
A team of astronomers led by Clarke gathered data on Saturn's aurora using Cassini and Hubble spacecraft. Their observations revealed that Saturn's aurora differ in character from day to day, with varying lengths and behaviors compared to Earth's and Jupiter's.
Researchers examine the 75-year history of hormone therapy, including the Women's Health Initiative study that found increased risks of breast cancer, dementia, and heart attacks in women taking combination hormone therapy. The authors argue that conflicting interests between women, physicians, and drug companies have contributed to th...
A study by Stanford researchers found that the youthful blood of younger mice can revive the regenerative abilities of older mice's satellite cells, which dot muscle tissue. This phenomenon was also observed in livers of older mice connected to younger lab-mates, suggesting a possible role for blood-borne factors in rejuvenation.
A UCLA study found that green tea extract may help fight bladder cancer by interrupting the development of invasive cells. The extract affects actin remodeling, a process crucial for cell movement and invasion.
Researchers found a link between air pollution and chromosomal abnormalities in babies, with stable alterations increasing cancer risk. The study monitored exposure to PAHs among African-American and Dominican mothers in NYC, finding higher abnormalities in those exposed to high pollution levels.
Scientists have identified a way to detect gene expression changes in fetuses using cell-free mRNA from amniotic fluid, potentially leading to advancements in human developmental research and biomarker development. The study found that the mRNA originates from the fetus, not the placenta.
A study published in the American Thoracic Society Journal found that montelukast significantly reduced asthma exacerbations and corticosteroid use in young children with intermittent symptoms. The medication delayed the time between exacerbations by approximately 2 months.
A new, point-of-care urine-based test for the protein NMP22 proteomic marker shows promise in detecting bladder cancer, particularly in patients at elevated risk. The test identified several malignancies missed by initial cystoscopy and detected muscle invasive cancers with high sensitivity.
Researchers found that naturally occurring proteins tumstatin, endostatin, and thrombospondin-1 inhibit angiogenesis, slowing tumor growth. The study's results suggest these proteins play a crucial role in controlling cancer progression, with potential therapeutic applications.
A Texas A&M University professor has developed a detailed wave prediction system that provides forecasts for two days ahead. The system uses data from NOAA and complex mathematical models to predict wave conditions, including height and timing.
Researchers found that men and women who drank moderately but frequently had the lowest BMI scores, while infrequent heavy drinkers had the highest BMIs. The study suggests that drinking frequency and quantity can be important risk factors for obesity.
A new test, NMP22 tumor marker assay, has been shown to be three times more effective than a traditional laboratory test in detecting bladder cancer. The test can detect the disease in patients with blood in their urine and certain risk factors, such as smoking and exposure to chemicals.
Researchers developed a new technique to detect fetal single gene disorders using analysis of circulatory fetal DNA in maternal plasma. The approach has been shown to be accurate and cost-effective, making it suitable for screening at-risk pregnancies in developing countries.
A nested case-control study found that higher HBV viral loads were associated with increased liver cancer risk in Taiwanese men. Genotype C was also linked to a five-fold increased risk of HCC, with effects exacerbated by high viral load levels.
Austrian-German collaboration creates laser-like X-rays with a compact laboratory apparatus, breaking the nanometer barrier. The technology has the potential to improve X-ray imaging in biology and medicine, enabling early-stage cancer diagnosis at reduced risk and higher resolution.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that increases in managed care market share were not associated with improved quality of care for cancer patients, except for a specific blood test. The authors conclude that expansion of managed care may not improve quality of care for all patients.
Researchers confirm Vioxx increased cardiovascular risk by nearly doubling events, including heart attacks and strokes, in patients with recurrent colon polyps. The trial was stopped early due to safety concerns.
New studies suggest that blocking estrogen may be essential to slowing the spread of lung cancer. Researchers found that a combination therapy targeting both estrogen and epidermal growth factor receptors resulted in a 59% tumor volume decrease.
A new genetic test has been found to detect mutations that conventional DNA tests may miss, particularly large genomic deletions. This test, known as conversion analysis, increased the diagnostic yield of deleterious mutations by 56%. The study suggests this method could be a valuable addition to current genetic testing strategies.
Researchers have developed a new theory explaining the wetting morphologies of liquids in open surface channels. The study reveals that channel geometry and substrate-liquid interaction are key factors determining liquid behavior, enabling the creation of microcompartments for confinement of small amounts of liquids and chemical reagents.
Researchers investigated protein pattern reproducibility, DNA methylation for cervical cancer screening, and tissue zinc concentrations associated with reduced esophageal cancer risk. They found that some methods are not biologically plausible, while others may be useful diagnostic tools.
A cardiologist will testify at an FDA hearing on the implications of animal tests in approving COX-2 inhibitors like Vioxx. The report reveals that these drugs had a heart-protective effect in mice and other animals, contrary to their human performance.
Researchers genetically altered mice to resist obesity but still develop early signs of diabetes, revealing the complex network of factors leading from obesity to diabetes. By applying a drug treatment, they increased insulin sensitivity, a primary goal of diabetes treatment.