Researchers have developed a miniaturized lab that can detect HIV and bacteria in saliva using a portable oral swab kit. The device analyzes samples quickly and accurately, making it useful for rapid response situations such as bioterrorism incidents or emergency room emergencies.
Researchers found that marital strain can increase a woman's risk of death from any cause, with self-silencing during conflict being a significant factor. Married men also had a lower risk of developing heart disease compared to unmarried men.
Three independent teams, including MIT, have developed walking robots that mimic human gait and control. The MIT robot, called Toddler, uses a learning program to adapt to terrain in under 20 minutes. The robots' efficiency and potential applications for robotic prostheses and understanding the human motor system are significant.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a gene, oct-4, expressed in normal adult stem cells, which could lead to the development of cancer prevention and diagnosis tools. The study found that adult stem cells with the oct-4 gene are more prone to becoming cancerous than those without it.
Researchers uncover how alpha-defensin-1 inhibits HIV infection in CD4+ T cells and how lubricin protects cartilage surfaces. These findings provide insights into innate immunity against HIV and may lead to the development of defensin-like drugs for prevention and treatment.
Research by Ingber and colleagues found that manipulating mechanical force in developing mouse lungs can slow down or speed up growth, which could lead to novel treatments for lung conditions. This study sheds light on the importance of mechanobiology in understanding normal lung development and potential intervention pathways.
Hochella's research focuses on the behavior of Earth materials at the atomic scale, revealing interactions with living things, water and air control many Earth processes. He has brought $7 million in research to Virginia and introduced nanoscience into high schools.
Scientists have discovered how climate change causes simultaneous increases or decreases in abundance of multiple species within a large geographical area. A study found that severe weather conditions directly affect the transmission of parasites, which drives populations into synchrony.
Researchers identified a 76-gene signature that can predict disease relapse in patients with lymph-node negative breast cancer. The signature showed high sensitivity (93%) but lower specificity (48%) in predicting distant recurrence within five years.
Researchers found that alpha-defensin-1 directly inactivates HIV when serum levels are low, while also acting on vulnerable cells to block infection. The study provides a basis for developing defensin-like drugs to prevent and treat HIV.
Researchers at WiCell Research Institute and University of Wisconsin-Madison develop method to eliminate need for feeder cells, simplifying culture of human ES cells. The new approach uses protein FGF2 to preserve undifferentiated state and reduce differentiation.
The USGS showcased its expertise in geospatial data sharing and the intersection of earth sciences with national security. The symposium brought together officials from various government agencies and state governments to discuss future coordination across the homeland security enterprise.
A retrospective study of over 500 patients found that obese kidney donors experienced similar short-term outcomes to non-obese donors, despite prior cardiovascular disease risks. The study highlights the need for longer follow-up periods to assess potential long-term differences in obese donors.
A new study suggests that the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) functions as an early warning system to help recognize and avoid high-risk situations. The ACC learns to warn us of potential mistakes before difficult decisions must be made, allowing for more careful behavior.
Computer simulations have revealed that gold is an effective catalyst when it's in clusters of eight to two dozen atoms, and electrical charging plays a crucial role. This breakthrough has opened up new avenues for exploring environmental effects on catalysis.
The Merck/AAAS Undergraduate Science Research Program supports research stipends and fosters interactions between biology and chemistry departments at participating institutions. The program aims to enhance undergraduate education through research experiences emphasizing the interrelationship between chemistry and biology.
Researchers unveiled a new breed of energy-efficient bipedal robots with a human-like gait. The robots use passive-dynamic walking devices to reduce power consumption, enabling applications in prosthetic devices and robotic control.
A review of North American studies found consistent evidence that media violence is associated with increased aggressive play and behavior in younger children. The effect is small but significant, particularly in boys, and persists even when socioeconomic factors are considered.
Nayfeh has made significant contributions to the field of nonlinear dynamics, including developing a new methodology for controlling ship motions and analyzing acoustic waves in aircraft engine-duct systems. His work has improved the understanding of complex phenomena such as subharmonic and superharmonic resonances in ships and boats.
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.