University of Houston professor Arnold Eskin's research suggests the biological clock regulates long-term memory formation, with neural circuits shutting down at night. His studies on Aplysia reveal that circadian rhythms influence memory formation, but not short-term memory.
A new gene therapy technique converts dead bone grafts into fully functional, living tissue by triggering the body's natural bone remodeling response. This method uses genetically modified viruses to activate key proteins in healthy bones, effectively turning a dead bone splint into the patient's own, whole bone.
Scientists at Purdue University have made a breakthrough in understanding the molecular mechanism of Group I introns, which could lead to new treatments for human diseases. By crystallizing an intron at mid-point in its work cycle, researchers gained insights into how it binds with molecules and carries out biochemical reactions.
A new study challenges the traditional understanding of sex assignment, suggesting that genetics and brain development may influence gender identity. Researchers highlight the need for more nuanced laws and policies to protect individuals with ambiguous genitalia.
New brain imaging technologies have the potential to treat and diagnose depression, as well as detect fetal abnormalities. However, questions remain about their clinical implications and how they should be used in research studies.
Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the causes of recent climate change, attributing warming to human influences. By analyzing climate models and observational records, scientists have identified key drivers of temperature changes, including greenhouse gases and solar irradiance.
Research by University of Pittsburgh researcher Herbert L. Needleman suggests a strong correlation between lead exposure and aggressive behavior, with even low levels affecting brain development in children. The study highlights the need for further action to eliminate lead from the environment.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have developed a new compound, AMN107, which targets Bcr-Abl kinase protein responsible for CML growth. In laboratory cell cultures and mice with the disease, AMN107 demonstrated effectiveness in killing CML cells and inducing longer remissions compared to Gleevec.
The Einstein@Home project searches data from US and European gravitational wave detectors for signals from rapidly rotating compact quark and neutron stars. The project utilizes an army of home computer users to analyze the data, requiring enormous computational power.
A new model of sound change shows that evolutionary principles can account for striking phonetic similarities across unrelated languages, as well as the rarity of certain sounds. Human perception and articulation make certain kinds of sound change more frequent than others, resulting in emergent properties of language.
Researchers studied mountain gorillas' diets to understand early human food adaptations, finding increased meat consumption led to genetic changes allowing for fatty foods without heart disease. The study suggests that humans have evolved to eat a 'mushy' diet and are not equipped to cope with substantial foods.
Researchers have developed genetically modified plants that produce biological detergents to combat hydrophobic pollutants, including PCBs and dioxins. These 'green Mr. Clean' plants use enzymes to secrete detergents into the soil, making them effective in phytoremediation, a cost-effective alternative to traditional remediation methods.
A panel discussion at the American Association for the Advancement of Science annual meeting explores issues of public confidence in genetic technologies. Stanford University School of Medicine associate professor Barbara Koenig addresses concerns about regulating new genetic technologies and ensuring their effectiveness.
Researchers infer that Titan has acquired significant amounts of ammonia and water, which could be responsible for resurfacing parts of the moon. The Cassini-Huygens mission suggests that liquid ammonia-and-water layers may exist beneath Titan's surface.
A new urinary marker, thymosin ß15, has been identified as a potential more accurate screening test for prostate cancer. When combined with PSA testing, it detects prostate cancer more often with fewer false-positives.
Researchers found that women with diabetes had over two and a half times the risk of heart disease compared to women without diabetes. Men with diabetes had about a 90% higher risk of dying from CHD as men without diabetes.
A team of experts at Cardiff University will use sophisticated computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and field tests to improve understanding of faults and power surges. They aim to develop computer models that can predict voltages and currents following major faults, helping the National Grid network to become safer and more r...
Research suggests that people with a history of depression are at a higher risk of developing epilepsy, while those with epilepsy may be more likely to experience depression. Studies have found common biological mechanisms underlying both conditions, including abnormal neurotransmitter secretion patterns.
Researchers discovered that certain marine red seaweeds can efficiently neutralize organic pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The process, known as phycoremediation, shows promise for developing new bioremediation technologies to remove contaminants from the marine environment.
The study found no benefit for women's health-related quality of life from post-menopausal hormone therapy, but increased risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular events, and stroke. This has led to a dilemma among stakeholders, including physicians and pharmaceutical companies.
The study confirms the existence of an Edomite state before the 8th century B.C. and demonstrates two major phases of copper production in the region. The discovery of massive fortifications, over 100 building complexes, and Egyptian scarabs provide strong evidence for metal-working activities.
Researchers found that adding serum sodium to the MELD score significantly increases its accuracy in predicting short-term mortality among liver transplant patients with advanced cirrhosis. The study showed that hyponatremia was a more accurate marker of poor outcome than serum creatinine.
Elizabeth Kessler's research examines how aesthetics influences the presentation of Hubble Space Telescope images, balancing art and science to evoke awe and wonder. Her study reveals how subjective choices in image processing create complex representations of the cosmos that fit within a Romantic landscape tradition.
A massive gamma-ray flare from a magnetar was detected by the RHESSI satellite, emitting as much energy in two-tenths of a second as the sun gives off in 250,000 years. The event's immense power suggests a solution to the origins of short-duration gamma ray bursts.
Women with acute coronary syndrome are being prescribed aspirin, beta-blockers, and statins as frequently as men, according to a recent study. However, significant disparities remain in the use of lipid-lowering medications, with women living significantly longer after their hospitalization.
A new strand of research applies the principle of self-organization to linguistics, suggesting that languages follow a pattern of tendencies rather than universal grammar. The study involves computer simulations where computers develop a common vocabulary and recognize sounds, eventually creating homophones in context.
Researchers are exploring alternative explanations for dark energy, including the possibility of modified gravity laws and a multiverse. String theory suggests that the value of the cosmological constant may be very small, while another speaker proposes using
Research suggests that adding meat, milk, or energy-rich vegetable oils to cereal-based diets can improve iron, zinc, and vitamin B-12 intake in poor children. Biofortification of crops is also a possibility, but more research is needed to determine its impact.
The partnership aims to utilize NASA satellite data to help manage forest resources in Acadia National Park. NPS and NASA will share information and collaborate on training, technical support, and education to benefit each other's goals.
The Internet has led to a renaissance in informal writing, with online diaries and blogs increasing expressive range. Professor Crystal argues that concerns about language deterioration are misplaced, as new technology has increased informality in writing.
A study by Eliesh O'Neil Lane explores the roles of IRB members and how to improve the decision-making process. The composition of IRBs affects the types of issues discussed during reviews, with defined roles needed for scientists, non-scientists, and nonaffiliated members.
University of Pennsylvania astrophysicist Licia Verde outlines a multi-disciplinary approach to studying dark energy. The investigation draws on data from galaxy surveys, supernovae, and the Cosmic Microwave Background, providing clues about this enigmatic component.
Dark energy drives universe expansion, but its effects are complex and not fully understood. String theory offers a potential explanation, suggesting the existence of 'pocket universes' with distinct physical laws.
Research reveals that female sex hormones, particularly estradiol, play a crucial role in defense against sexually transmitted diseases. Estradiol-treated mice showed 100% protection from herpes virus infection, while those with progesterone or no hormone showed extensive infection and increased inflammation.
Research suggests Arctic sea ice is shrinking, contradicting current climate models. Mountain glaciers are also losing mass due to temperature changes, raising concerns about sea level rise.
Researchers warn that economic models of climate change often neglect potential threshold responses, leading to biased policies. The development of observation systems that can detect early warning signals about these events could improve climate policies and have significant economic benefits.
Researchers at Perlegen and Calit2 have developed a method to analyze whole-genome data, making it possible for genome-wide association studies to be performed on a reduced budget. The study reveals that most functional human genetic variation is not population-specific, with only 18% of SNPs segregating in one population sample.
Dvali suggests extra dimensions allow gravitons to escape, altering space-time continuum and accelerating cosmic expansion. This theory predicts observable deviations at shorter distances than predicted by modified gravity hypothesis.
A 12-week Tai Chi exercise program showed high completion rates and health benefits among 27 Chinese women with cardiovascular risk factors. The program's success was attributed to cultural relevance, accessibility, and the Yang Style of Tai Chi.
Neurobiologist William H. Calvin argues that bigger brain size didn't lead to general intelligence improvements in human evolution. However, after a significant burst of creativity around 75,000 years ago, humans made rapid advancements in complex tasks like art and language.
The US Constitution offers a set of shared values that can help frame the debate on genetic engineering of humans, including promotion of welfare, science, and equal protection. Policymakers will likely debate the benefits and potential harm to future children and the public.
Researchers developed an automated, personalized assistance system that monitors users' query patterns and provides help in finding needed information. The system achieved a 54% implementation rate among college students, outperforming passive help systems.
A recent survey of UK scientists suggests a link between success and encouragement, with women performing better than men in some areas. The UK is working to improve these numbers through initiatives like the Athena Project, which aims to promote women's careers in science, engineering, and technology.
A recent meta-analysis of 200 surveys found little cross-cultural variation in public perception of science, highlighting the need for coherent theories to explain public attitudes. The study also explored differences in how diverse cultures regard science, with Americans showing a lack of understanding and acceptance of new technologies.
Researchers suggest introducing a new species to balance ecosystem health and mitigate the risk of farmed fish escapes. Dr. Ian Fleming argues that this could be a solution to limit ecological impact.
The Caries Assessment and Risk Evaluation (CARE) test measures saliva's oligosaccharides to predict future cavity history with 98% confidence. The test identifies children at risk, allowing for preventive measures to be taken.
The study found that EGCG protected fatty livers from cell damage after I/R injury, reducing necrosis and increasing viable tissue. It also reduced liver fat content by approximately 55 percent and increased hepatic energy stores.