A new NIST-developed instrument uses infrared laser light to accurately measure silicon wafer thickness, enabling precise nanoscale dimension measurements. The Improved Infrared Interferometer can produce detailed spatial maps of differences in thickness with high repeatability.
Scientists have sequenced the genomes of three parasites responsible for sleeping sickness, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis, providing critical information for drug and vaccine development. The research identified core genes that could serve as targets for effective drugs against all three parasites.
A recent study by George Y. Bizer found that individuals who report 'opposition' to a candidate show less attitude change than those who state 'support'. The study suggests that opposition can strengthen one's opinion, making it more difficult to change.
A new study reveals that predatory dinosaurs, such as T. rex, had a more complex air sac system similar to that in modern birds. The findings suggest that these ancient beasts may have been warm-blooded creatures, with a pulmonary machinery for enhanced gas exchange.
Researchers at Purdue University have confirmed findings by Rusi Taleyarkhan, using a tabletop device to produce nuclear fusion reactions through the use of ultrasound. The experiment produced neutrons in the range of 2.5 MeV and tritium, providing evidence for thermonuclear fusion.
A new study reveals that emergency physicians' fear of lawsuits fuels defensive medicine, resulting in unnecessary hospital admissions and increased healthcare costs. The research found that high-fear physicians are more likely to admit low-risk patients and order excessive tests.
Researchers have developed a new gene identification method using the Sleeping Beauty transposon technology, which inserts itself into or between genes and can activate or inactivate their function. This method allows for more efficient and accurate identification of cancer-causing genes compared to traditional methods.
A new study published in Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions found that drug-eluting stents are a safe treatment for heart attack patients, provoking no increase in complications. The stents prevented arterial renarrowing by 90% and reduced the need for repeat procedures.
Researchers at European Molecular Biology Laboratory discovered that actin fibres are necessary to help microtubules transport chromosomes during cell division. In a study using starfish oocytes, the team found that actin networks gather chromosomes together before they can be pulled by microtubules.
Researchers identified a key protein, coracle (4.1), that links receptors to cytoskeleton in nerve cells, enabling efficient neurotransmission. This discovery could help understand neurological diseases and develop drugs to manipulate problematic proteins.
A trial involving 731 patients found that treatment with erlotinib resulted in longer survival compared to a placebo, with patients on erlotinib surviving an average of 6.7 months versus 4.7 months. Erlotinib was also well-tolerated and improved physical function, quality of life, and symptoms.
The Massachusetts legislature is considering mandatory minimum nurse staffing ratios, with recent research highlighting the importance of nursing staff in improving patient outcomes. The proposed legislation aims to increase the supply of nurses and track patient outcomes, amidst a growing nursing shortage in the state.
Researchers found that preschool children's reaction to unwanted gifts predicts their ability to control reactive behavior and develop socially appropriate expressive behavior. This skill is crucial for future social success.
Research by Prado shows that Viagra affects plant pollen tube behavior, blocking re-orientation in response to NO. NO may serve as a safeguard mechanism to prevent dual fertilization in plants.
Researchers discover Aspergillus fumigatus has genes required for sexual reproduction, affecting disease control and potential antifungal drug resistance. The fungus's common presence in compost heaps may be a hotbed of fungal sex.
A study published by Yale researchers found that 17 members of a family carried a specific mutation in the sodium channel Nav1.7 gene, which is associated with intense burning pain in the hands and feet triggered by heat and exercise. The discovery suggests the possibility of rational therapies targeting this affected channel.
Researchers at OHSU developed a portable device that uses audio cues to assist individuals with balance disorders, such as those caused by vestibular loss or Parkinson's disease. The device has shown significant improvement in reducing sway area and increasing time spent within the safe zone during early testing.
A recent study published in The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that use of over-the-counter (OTC) topical progesterone results in significant drug exposure through skin absorption, comparable to prescribed oral progesterone products. The study revealed similar rates of adverse effects among women taking both types of progesterone.
A study of over 2,200 US girls found that decreased physical activity was the main reason for weight gain and obesity. Increasing physical activity by 2.5 hours of brisk walking per week could potentially prevent weight gain and reduce obesity risk during adolescence.
The mosquito fish's reproductive habits rely on male coercion, which is affected by environmental temperatures. Females select for strong male genes and adapt their behavior to optimal temperatures.
Researchers found that sensory deprivation prevented substantial synapse loss in growing mice, contradicting the widely-held notion that brain neurons naturally lose connections as they form new ones. The study's findings suggest a potential link between childhood experiences and long-lasting impacts on brain function.
Researchers explore bacterial cooperation as a therapeutic target to combat antibiotic-resistant infections. By understanding how bacteria collaborate, scientists hope to develop novel treatments that can effectively target these complex interactions.
Researchers have discovered a mechanism by which bean plants can prevent fluid loss when injured, using contractile protein bodies that change shape in response to calcium concentrations. Vetch aphids overcome this blockage by injecting saliva into the plant.
The Albert Szent-Györgyi Prize is awarded to researchers making notable contributions to cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The $25,000 cash award promotes public awareness of basic science cancer research and encourages increased investment in cancer research.
Researchers found that participants who reduced their drinking had better outcomes and were more likely to remain in treatment, suggesting that psychosocial therapies' effectiveness is linked to patient characteristics rather than attendance. The study's findings challenge the current assumption that therapy is key to treating alcoholism.
Researchers discovered that neural stem cells can migrate to damaged brain areas and turn off activated immune cells, reducing inflammation. In a breakthrough, mice with MS-like disease showed significant recovery after transplanting, with reduced relapses and myelin damage.
A recent study found that nearly half of patients admitted for heart-related symptoms do not have acute coronary syndromes. Emergency physicians with a fear of malpractice are more likely to order unnecessary tests and admit low-risk patients, increasing healthcare costs.
Researchers found that non-cancerous cells surrounding young breast cancers undergo epigenetic modifications, altering gene function and signaling to tumor cells. This discovery may lead to early cancer diagnosis or predicting cancer risk through detection of epigenetic alterations.
A study by Cornell University professor David Pimentel found that organic farming systems produce the same crop yields as conventional farming, while using less energy and conserving more water. Organic farming also improves soil quality and reduces pollution.
Researchers discovered six genes linked to chronic lung rejection, potentially leading to an early genetic test and targeted treatments. The study's findings could improve lung transplant patient survival by detecting scarring earlier.
A study has found that a primate virus, simian foamy virus, has jumped the species barrier to humans in Asia, primarily through contact with temple macaques. Researchers warn that limiting human-primate interaction can reduce transmission risks and protect both humans and monkeys from disease.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine have made significant discoveries on the formation of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), a leading cause of death worldwide. Two new studies suggest that neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, play a crucial role in AAA formation, particularly in the early stages of the condition.
PediPump, a small rotary dynamic VAD, demonstrates excellent hemodynamic performance in children. Researchers plan to further reduce its size to enable implantation as a totally implantable pediatric VAD.
The coelacanth genome provides insights into its evolutionary relationships with other animals, particularly in embryonic development and immunity. The study sheds light on how the species' genes differ from those of other fishes and tetrapods.
Despite progress, most US babies are not fully covered under newborn screening programs. Currently, 23 states screen for over 20 disorders, while others have limited or no testing.
A new guide from the Better Hearing Institute provides parents with tools to recognize and address hearing loss in children, which can impact academic performance and development. The guide offers treatment options and resources for parents to overcome stigma associated with hearing aids.
A study by University of Illinois-Chicago researchers found that a plasminogen system component called PAI-1 actually enhances muscle regeneration when deficient. This suggests the plasminogen system may have multiple roles in muscle repair and offers potential therapeutic targets for aging and degenerative diseases.
A new report by the European Society for Medical Oncology reveals that female lung cancer death rates in Europe are still rising, despite a 16% increase between 1990-2001. However, trends in some countries and among younger women show a decline, suggesting future hope for reducing this epidemic.
Researchers found a unique salt-tolerant enzyme in algae that shares structural similarities with human kidney enzymes. This discovery may lead to the development of new drugs targeting enzyme-based treatments.
Researchers investigate estrogen and estrogen-like drugs' ability to protect brain cells after a stroke. Preliminary data suggest that these substances can help traumatized cells survive and encourage stem cell maturation into new brain cells.
Drosophila melanogaster flies respond to dropping black discs with jumping, using both legs and wings to move away from the object. The 'giant fibre pathway' initiates a take-off sequence, involving leg stretching and wing depression.
The American Academy of Neurology has supported a bill that would expand funding scope for National Institutes of Health support of embryonic stem-cell research. This move is expected to significantly advance the field while ensuring strong ethical safeguards.
A team of astrophysicists discovered X-ray oscillations in a neutron star that provide critical information about its internal structure. The oscillations, generated by massive quakes, contain frequency vibrations that can help scientists understand the nature of neutron stars.
Researchers found a consistent relationship between ideal body mass for running performance and ground forces required at different speeds. Sprinters require more muscle and bulk, while endurance specialists need less due to lower ground forces.
A randomized trial found that promoting communication about hospice increased enrollment in 20-25% of patients within 30 days, while also providing more comprehensive end-of-life care. Intervention residents had higher rated family satisfaction and lower acute care admissions.
Researchers have developed a new process that can efficiently break down paper into soluble sugars, potentially providing a solution to the global wastepaper glut. The method uses designer cellulosomes with unique enzymes that work together effectively to degrade cellulose chains.
The new program predicts both protein sequences and untranslated regions, revealing novel insights into gene regulation. By identifying correct transcription start sites and spliced untranslated regions, scientists can better understand gene function and regulation.
RIT's new gravitySimulator supercomputer can simulate galaxy evolution with unprecedented precision, handling up to 4 million stars at once. The machine, one of only two in the world, achieves a top speed of 4 Teraflops, enabling researchers to study complex astrophysical phenomena.
Researchers found that G-protein-coupled receptors involved in detecting odors do not amplify signals like those in the eye, contradicting previous claims. Instead, cells can bind to multiple receptors or express the same receptor to enhance sensitivity.
A study of 8,405 women found that moderate or severe vasomotor symptoms were reported by 21.2% of former hormone therapy users, compared to 4.8% of placebo group respondents. Lifestyle and medical strategies may help manage symptoms after discontinuing hormone therapy.
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that the US spends more on healthcare than any other country due to higher prices for health care goods and services. Defensivemedicine contributes more to higher health spending than malpractice premiums.
A microbial fuel cell has been created by Washington University researchers that generates electricity and treats wastewater, a process with potential to power 900 American homes. The device uses a carbon-based foam and bacteria to produce electricity from organic matter in wastewater.
Research suggests people with poor inhibitory ability are more likely to behave inappropriately, even when trying to follow social norms. Inhibitory ability is disrupted under demanding conditions, affecting individuals' ability to suppress true feelings.
Researchers found a clear link between mesothelioma and residential proximity to ultramafic rock, the source of naturally occurring asbestos. The odds of developing mesothelioma fell by 6.3 percent for every 10 kilometers from an asbestos source.
Researchers discovered that hawkmoth caterpillars infected with non-pathogenic bacteria produce antibacterial peptides that confer resistance against lethal insect pathogens. This finding suggests that field-immunized insects may exhibit different immune responses than laboratory models, challenging the validity of current studies.
Researchers found that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is as effective as electro-shock therapy in alleviating severe depression. However, TMS has fewer side effects, particularly memory impairment. Patients treated with TMS showed significant improvement in mood without affecting the hippocampus.
Researchers use stable isotopes in epiphytes to measure changes in photosynthesis and water evaporation, providing indicators of climate change. The findings suggest that these plants could be used as bioindicators of climate change in tropical regions.
Scientists at Max Planck Institute discovered that activity patterns on scale-free networks have unusual dynamic properties, robust against random perturbations but sensitive to selective ones. These networks can store and retrieve fixed patterns, making them suitable for associative memories and pattern recognition.
The incidence of hepatitis A in the US has dropped substantially since 1990, with a 76% decline to 2.6 per 100,000 people. Children under 18 years old have been disproportionately affected, with a 87% decrease in cases.
Virginia Bioinformatics Institute researcher receives USDA functional genomics grant to develop control of major soybean pathogen, with a focus on early stages of infection and whole genome approach. The project aims to understand the complex web of interactions between pathogens and plant genes.