Researchers at NIST are working on 'intelligent' building systems that provide real-time data to firefighters and police, enhancing their response to emergencies. These systems will send information such as floor plans and sensor data directly to dispatchers, enabling more accurate assessments and mitigation of emergencies.
A Lancet study found that Pfizer's Vfend is an effective alternative to a two-drug candidemia regimen, with comparable efficacy but fewer serious side effects. The treatment was found to be more tolerable, particularly in reducing renal toxicity and visual disturbances.
African-American adolescents face unique challenges in developing a sense of self amid racial, gender, and socio-economic complexities. A new study led by Professor Jerome Morris will explore the role of class status and context in improving educational outcomes for African-American students.
Researchers at UCLA found that reflecting on personal values can significantly lower cortisol levels after stressful events, providing a potential new method to combat stress. The study involved 80 undergraduates who underwent stressful tasks, with those reflecting on meaningful values showing reduced cortisol responses.
A genetic analysis by Francisco Salzano and colleagues supports Rodrigues' suggestion of a close connection between Carib and Tupi, while Je and Maipure show more distant relationships. The study provides new insights into the complex history of South American Native languages.
A new NIST device, called a goniospectrometer, automatically measures the color of light reflected from a surface as well as its dependence on the directions of illumination and observation. This comprehensive tool provides more complete data on reflection of light from a color surface.
A recent study found that obesity measured by waist-to-hip ratio is three times stronger than BMI in predicting the risk of heart attack. The researchers analyzed data from over 27,000 people across 52 countries and discovered a striking correlation between waist size and cardiovascular risk.
A Phase III trial demonstrated a significant increase in average time to progression with sunitinib treatment compared to placebo, leading to improved overall survival. Treatment with sunitinib was well-tolerated, with common side effects including fatigue and diarrhoea.
A German-Swedish team has identified a single gene, DCDC2, as an important factor in the emergence of dyslexia. The gene appears to affect the migration of nerve cells in the developing brain, with frequent changes found among dyslexics.
A new drug, clopidogrel, has been shown to significantly reduce deaths from heart attacks, with a 9% decrease in mortality rates compared to placebo. The treatment also resulted in a 14% reduction in repeat heart attacks during the study period, highlighting its potential to save thousands of lives each year.
A new study by Conservation International and WWF reveals significant discrepancies between CITES and US Customs data on international wildlife trade, with figures varying wildly from 5,200 percent. The study identifies widespread errors and inefficiencies in recordkeeping, hindering effective conservation efforts.
Researchers at Oregon State University have cultured SAR11 bacteria in a lab to study its unique 'proteorhodopsin' gene. The findings suggest that this gene may serve as an auxiliary energy system for the cells when faced with starvation, benefiting ocean life.
A Stanford study finds that certain tryptophan metabolites can alleviate symptoms of multiple sclerosis, a condition affecting over 2.5 million people worldwide. The research suggests that diet and immunity are linked, with tryptophan playing a pivotal role in immune system regulation.
Researchers found that alum and polyacrylamide were highly effective in removing dissolved phosphorus and suspended sediment in river waters entering the lake. This treatment could help meet California's growing population needs, support commercial growth, and develop the region as a water-sports recreational area.
Scientists have captured high-resolution snapshots of the bacterial ribosome, allowing them to build more detailed models and gain insights into how specific antibiotics work. The new data reveals the ribosome's structure and function during protein manufacturing, including its ability to withstand stress and neutralize negative charge.
Researchers aim to mass produce technologies for consumer market, focusing on fundamental research and nanofabrication techniques to improve hydrogen storage and generation from solar cells. The grants are part of a $64 million DOE initiative aiming to make vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel cells available and affordable by 2020.
Researchers discovered divergent neuronal pathways at the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R), controlling food intake and energy expenditure. The study provides new insights into the intricate process of maintaining stable body weight, with potential implications for obesity treatment.
Three finalists, Pingxi Xu, Justin Blau, Paul Frankland, and Johanna Montgomery, have made significant contributions to understanding insect behavior through pheromone signaling. Their research has the potential to develop sustainable methods of pest control and improve human health by preventing disease.
Researchers mapped Hox protein expression patterns to understand motor neuron wiring and diversification. The code governs columnar, divisional, and pool identities, enabling precise connections between neurons and muscles.
Researchers have discovered that inflammation in the brain can cause toxic nerve impulses that inflict injury on neurons and disrupt function. Chemical preconditioning, induced by small amounts of stress, may be able to prevent this damage and preserve neurologic function, offering a new path for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Anke Meyer-Baese is developing computer software to mimic the way a radiologist analyzes all of that information -- and to do it better and faster. The goal is to provide doctors with a new tool to better diagnose breast cancer using MRI technology, which holds promise in detecting hard-to-find cases.
Researchers have developed a new sensor based on a human organ that can detect specific frequencies of sound waves. The device, which is a microelectromechanical system, has three main benefits over existing artificial cochlea designs: mass production potential, comparable size, and efficiency.
A recent study found that waist-to-hip ratio is a stronger predictor of heart attack than BMI in diverse ethnic populations. The researchers discovered that larger waist size was harmful, while larger hip size was protective, leading to substantial reassessment of obesity's importance for cardiovascular disease worldwide.
The Geneva summit aims to address critical issues in preventing the spread of H5N1 influenza, including early detection of new clusters, effective surveillance systems, and strategies to avoid resistance to antivirals. The event seeks to promote global cooperation and coordination in addressing this pandemic threat.
E-MAP technique enables researchers to analyze epistatic interactions between genes in a systematic way, revealing new insights into protein functions and evolutionary processes. By quantifying the effects of interacting mutant genes, E-MAPs help optimize drug treatments and improve our understanding of biological systems.
A recent Gallup survey found that 53% of adults with sleep problems are not receiving treatment, while 77% express concerns about long-term effects of prescription sleep aids. Worry is a common factor interfering with nearly 40% of older adults' ability to fall asleep, especially among primary caregivers.
A new theoretical model helps explore the fate of CO2 injected into oceans under various temperature and pressure conditions. Liquid CO2 would need to be injected to a depth of at least 800 meters to keep it from escaping, according to Zhang's model.
Researchers discovered that alpha-synuclein, a disease-causing protein, has a protective effect against nerve damage in Parkinson's disease. This finding was made by studying mutant mice that were bred to have different levels of alpha-synuclein and cysteine-string-protein-alpha, a co-chaperone.
Researchers at Yale University have devised a way to predict the microstructure of crystals as they form in materials. This new method enables the estimation of grain size and subsequent material properties dependent on microstructure, opening up possibilities for tailoring material characteristics.
A study found that HIV-positive patients with end-stage liver disease have a high risk of early death, likely due to weakened immune systems. The authors recommend closer monitoring and earlier transplant evaluation for these patients to minimize the risk.
A new study published in Cell identifies RISC as a three-protein complex responsible for microRNA production and specificity in gene silencing. The complex, consisting of Dicer, Argonaute 2, and TRBP enzymes, oversees the creation of microRNAs and guides them to target specific messenger RNAs.
Dr. Harold F. Dvorak, M.D.'s groundbreaking work on vascular permeability factor/vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) has led to significant clinical benefits in cancer patients. His discovery has enabled the development of anti-VEGF therapies with outstanding clinical antitumor activity.
ECCO 13 study investigates post-treatment parenthood success rates in Hodgkin's lymphoma patients, with radiotherapy and chemotherapy linked to higher pregnancy success. The research highlights the importance of preserving fertility in young cancer survivors.
A study found that Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects around 1,000 people in Latin American cities. The disease prevalence varies greatly between cities, with rates ranging from 7.8% to 20%. Altitude is a key factor contributing to the high COPD rates in Latin America.
Researchers at NSBRI have developed an ultrasound training method that reduces learning time to two-to-three hours a year. The program uses computer-based instruction and remote guidance to enable non-physicians to assess and manage emergency medical conditions in space, sports, and emergency response situations.
Researchers have discovered a unique layer of molten rocks beneath the Tibetan Plateau, explaining its massive rise over millions of years. The study also reveals that this geological makeup is typical of the entire Himalayan range, not just Tibet.
Researchers found that resveratrol, a compound in red wine, significantly reduces amyloid-beta peptide levels in cells. The compound is believed to stimulate the degradation of these peptides by the proteasome, a multi-protein complex. However, it remains unclear whether eating grapes can effectively prevent Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at the University of Kentucky developed carbon nanotube membranes that allow for fast transit approaching the speed of biological channels. The membranes' scalable fabrication enables industrially useful chemical separations.
Wildlife Conservation Society's field vets collected samples from hundreds of wild birds affected by H5N1 strain, helping to develop a human pandemic influenza vaccine. The collaboration highlights the importance of protecting wildlife diversity and monitoring their health for potential benefits to humankind.
Researchers developed a genetic profile of ovarian cancer that predicts survival and identifies key genes involved in chemotherapy response. The study used microarray analysis to identify a gene expression profile known as the Chemotherapy Response Profile, which confirms the importance of genes such as BAX.
Researchers discovered Klotho protein increases cell resistance to oxidative stress by detoxifying harmful reactive oxygen species. This finding may lead to the development of anti-aging drugs, potentially useful as medicines.
The SAGE Center will foster interdisciplinary research on the human mind, integrating social sciences, arts, humanities, and natural sciences. Michael Gazzaniga aims to build a powerful new center focused on understanding the unique nature of the human mind.
The university has installed a 800 MHz German-made Bruker magnet, funded by a $2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. The magnet is over twice as powerful as average hospital-based MRI machines and will be used for determining the three-dimensional structure and motion of biological molecules.
The University of Central Florida's Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy is now using the Xbox Development Kits as part of its training programs. This agreement provides students with valuable experience in gaming console development and gives them a competitive edge in the industry. With access to contemporary console platforms, ...
Research suggests that smokeless oral tobacco products and medicinal nicotine products may be safer alternatives to cigarette smoking. However, studies also found that these products may not be effective in reducing smoking use and related diseases. Medicinal nicotine products appear to be a better option for smokers looking to quit.
A recent study published in the journal Hypertension has found a significant association between fatty liver and an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that GGT levels are strongly affected by weight and body fat distribution, particularly in overweight participants with central obesity.
A new study found that a vitamin D pill combination extended the lives of men with advanced prostate cancer by about eight months compared to those receiving chemotherapy and placebo. The pill, DN-101, also protected against major side effects of chemotherapy.
Scientists discovered that some adult stem cells express characteristics of muscle and heart cells, suggesting they could be the 'footprints' of evolution. The researchers believe these cells may be incomplete or 'rudiments' of earlier embryonal differentiation processes.
The Venus mission aims to study the planet's surface and atmosphere, with a focus on volcanoes and potential biological activity. The spacecraft will use advanced instruments to detect 'hotspots' in the clouds and make a positive detection of volcanoes.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that shortness of breath can signify a higher risk of dying from cardiac disease. The study, which evaluated nearly 18,000 patients, revealed that patients with shortness of breath were four times more likely to suffer death from a cardiac cause than asymptomatic patients.
Researchers discovered that malaria parasite proteins exhibit unique interactions and functions by comparing them to those of yeast, fruit flies, roundworms, and Helicobacter pylori. The study highlights the power of proteomics in understanding complex biological processes and identifying potential targets for new treatments.
The ASU Resilience Solutions Group is studying how factors of risk and resilience contribute to health and well-being among baby boomers. The project will identify biopsychosocial factors that sustain well-being and protect against disability, aiming to maximize wellness and health.
A combination treatment of Xeloda and oxaliplatin (XELOX) has been shown to reduce hospital visits by over 60% in patients with early colon cancer. This results in more time for patients to spend with family and return to work, improving their quality of life.
Recent pre-K study shows significant improvements in reading, writing, and spelling abilities. Early Head Start participants exhibit enhanced family support for children's learning, social-emotional development, and health. The programs benefit disadvantaged children and Hispanic youth.
Yale's Peabody Museum will design science curricula for middle school students, focusing on Lyme disease and West Nile encephalitis, to increase science literacy and promote research careers. The project aims to demystify science and make it more accessible through hands-on inquiry-based research projects.
A recent study by Mayo Clinic researchers suggests that sinusitis is a leading cause of chronic cough, affecting an estimated 23 million Americans annually. The study found that 37.1% of patients suspected of having sinusitis were ultimately diagnosed with the condition as the cause of their chronic cough.
Researchers at Oregon State University have identified a protein that can cross plant cell membranes and function as a toxin, allowing for potential manipulation of plant behavior. The discovery bears similarity to mammalian cell function and may lead to new tools for delivering compounds inside plant cells.
A Dutch study found that higher doses of radiotherapy significantly improved patient outcome over a five-year period. An anti-androgen therapy trial suggested early treatment can benefit locally advanced disease, while immunotherapy trials are showing promising results for androgen-independent prostate cancer.
The Millennium Bridge's wobble was caused by a sudden synchronization of pedestrians' footsteps, which became unstable as more people joined in. Researchers found that only around 160 people were needed to trigger this phenomenon, which could be used to inform future bridge designs.
Lung cancer researchers are exploring new approaches to prevent and treat the disease, including nicotine vaccines that can reduce tobacco dependence. Additionally, studies on chemoprevention strategies aim to identify populations at high risk for lung cancer and design effective prevention methods.