Roger Atkinson, a leading atmospheric chemist, has been elected Fellow of the American Geophysical Union. His pioneering research on atmospheric reactions and photochemical smog has received recognition from various quarters. He has contributed to the development of analytical and experimental methods for researchers.
Researchers at Georgia Tech and MUSC developed a novel mathematical model that accurately predicted the behavior of a key signaling pathway in yeast. The model was tested experimentally and showed promising results, with predictions validated in all qualitative scenarios.
Researchers at NIST developed a simple, chemical way to attach electrical contacts to molecular-scale electronic components. The technique, patented by the institute, uses copper ions to form strong, chemically bonded contacts that protect fragile molecules during further metallic vapor deposition steps.
Recent studies suggest that brain avalanches, triggered by neurochemicals, may be optimal for information storage. This discovery could lead to new treatments for memory disorders.
A study estimates that a person would need to eat at least 1.5kg of neural tissue from an infected animal to be at risk of developing vCJD. The investigation found the efficiency of infection from cow to primate could be 7-20 times lower than intraspecies infection for cattle.
Researchers found Celebrex significantly reduced adhesions after surgery, with 55% of mice completely adhesion-free. The study suggests COX-2 inhibitors could prevent adhesions in adult surgical patients, offering a new treatment option.
Physicists at NIST recreate key process for nuclear energy production in dense stars using ultracold crystals. The experiments may help study nuclear fusion as an energy source and demonstrate a new method for modeling dense stellar objects.
A team of experts from the University of Manchester and Imperial College London discovered a gene called melanopsin that causes nerve cells to become photoreceptive. Activating this gene in non-light-sensitive cells makes them sensitive to light, which may provide a new approach to treating visual loss.
Scientists at NIST have developed prototype pyroelectric detectors coated with carbon nanotubes, showing improved heat conduction and laser resistance. The coating absorbs light and converts it to heat, generating a current that measures the power of the laser.
Researchers found that periodic syphilis outbreaks are caused by a loss of immunity among those at risk of infection, not changes in sexual behavior. The study analyzed data from 68 US cities since the 1940s and found that rises and falls in disease cases followed a distinct 10-year cycle.
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial showed etanercept was ineffective in preventing disease flares for patients with Wegener's granulomatosis. The study found that most patients experienced disease remissions at a high cost due to treatment-associated adverse effects.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) advises organizations to carefully consider the security implications of Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) systems. Implementing common security measures, such as firewalls and encryption, can result in poor voice quality and blocked calls if not done properly.
The IBDchip is an open tool that includes polymorphisms associated with the disease, predisposition, and evolution. Progenika has developed similar products, including the Lipochip for hypercholesterolemia diagnosis and the Bloodchip for genotyping blood donors.
Richard Zare receives $100,000 Wolf Prize for his ingenious applications of laser techniques in analytical chemistry. He has developed novel methods for detecting single molecules and exploring chemical properties.
Researchers discovered that melanopsin, a protein in the eyes, absorbs light and triggers a biochemical cascade to signal the brain about brightness. This allows ipRGCs to synchronize the body's daily rhythms with the sun's rising and setting, controlling alertness, sleep, hormone production, and organ function.
Researchers found that genetic selection for low aerobic capacity in rats led to high cardiovascular risk factors, mirroring human data on fitness and survival. The study suggests a link between impaired oxygen metabolism and disease, supporting the importance of aerobic health.
Experiments on moss grown in space showed it formed striking clockwise spirals despite the absence of gravity. Common roof moss grew in a residual spacing mechanism intended to control colony growth and branch distribution.
A recent study suggests that better hospital resource management and staff training are crucial in responding effectively to disasters. The study emphasizes the need for improved communication, planning, and education among hospitals to ensure a more efficient exchange of resources during critical situations.
A case report reveals a traveller from a tsunami-affected region developed mucormycosis, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment. The study suggests that travellers repatriated from affected areas can serve as predictors of infections in survivors.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a new form of muscular dystrophy in adults, linked to specific gene mutations that can be targeted for treatment. The study combines laboratory and clinical data to provide a deeper understanding of the disease process and its genetic basis.
Scientists at Imperial College London and the University of Manchester have discovered a way to activate melanopsin, a gene that makes nerve cells responsive to light. This breakthrough could lead to new therapies for forms of blindness such as retinitis pigmentosa.
Researchers used quantum dots to visualize protein localization in plant cells for the first time, providing valuable understanding of pollen tube interaction. The study paves the way for using quantum dots in live imaging and improving plant breeding techniques.
Researchers studied the plant's leaves, discovering an 'active snap-buckling instability' that controls rapid closure. The study reveals key mechanisms for the plant's trap-like movement, with implications for biomimetic systems and tiny artificial devices.
The XCCDF specification document provides a flexible, vendor-neutral format for measuring conformance to security benchmarks and generating records of benchmark tests. NIST is developing computer security checklists for widely used government agencies with the help of organizations like NSA and DHS.