Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a new catalyst that efficiently removes and destroys harmful perchlorate in contaminated groundwater. The catalyst, composed of palladium and rhenium supported on activated carbon, operates at room temperature and can eliminate perchlorate altogether.
Chemical cues from fathers may be delaying the onset of sexual maturity in daughters as part of an evolutionary strategy to prevent inbreeding. Researchers found that girls without fathers matured approximately three months before those whose fathers were present, with urban environments also linked to earlier menarche.
Researchers have created tiny test tubes made of single-walled carbon nanotubes, which enables them to probe the role of extreme molecular confinement on chemical behavior. The nanotubes allow water molecules to bond together into rings and shield reactive molecules from reacting with other chemicals.
Researchers developed live attenuated vaccines using weakened influenza virus proteins and found they elicited broad and lasting immunity in mice and ferrets. The vaccines provided protection against different H5N1 viruses that emerged years later, demonstrating potential as a future treatment option for avian flu.
Researchers have discovered fucoxanthin in brown seaweed, which reduces abdominal fat and stimulates the liver to produce DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid. The compound could be developed into a pill for weight loss, but human studies are planned and may take several years.
A team of scientists found that endogenous retroviruses are critical during early pregnancy in sheep, supporting the development of the placenta. The study suggests these retroviruses are remnants of ancient infections and have become indispensable for pregnancy in mammals.
Researchers at UW-Madison have developed DNA-coated stents that release gene-based therapy to prevent restenosis, a common problem with metal stents. Additionally, they've created microwell arrays to grow undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells with defined sizes and shapes.
A recent study found that colchicine significantly reduces the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis virus-related end-stage liver disease. Colchicine treatment delays HCC diagnosis by an average of 72 months and improves survival rates.
Researchers found that elevated troponin-T and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels in the blood indicate high risk of deadly heart attacks. Patients with low levels may not benefit from aggressive treatment and could be harmed by invasive procedures.
Researchers are creating a computer-based program to evaluate the impact of environmental policies on the auto industry and consumer behavior. The five-year study will build and link computer models to understand the response of consumers and producers to policy decisions and their environmental impact.
Research found that air travel affects both the peak date and rate of spread of flu in the US. The study analyzed government records on deaths from flu and pneumonia between 1996 and 2005 and discovered that flu season started about two weeks later than usual after 9/11 restrictions on air travel were implemented.
Researchers found that BMPs regulate neural patterning in fruit flies and vertebrates, implying a conserved evolutionary process. A unified model of early neural development suggests that at least part of the neural patterning mechanism has been preserved from a shared ancestral organism over 500 million years ago.
A recent analysis suggests that limiting flights after 9/11 delayed the onset of the 2001-2002 U.S. flu season and slowed flu spread. By analyzing real data on influenza mortality and air travel volume, researchers found a strong correlation between reduced airline activity and delayed flu peaks.
Researchers are developing models to understand electronic interactions in molecular systems, which could lead to more efficient energy production. By predicting the probability of electron transfer, scientists aim to design new technologies such as improved solar cells.
Researchers found a new pathway for building neurotransmitter lipids using enzyme Abh4, which could lead to more selective treatment options for metabolic and central nervous system disorders.
Researchers investigated the impact of two copies of the G2019S Parkinson's gene mutation on disease severity. They found no observable differences in symptoms, age of onset, or life expectancy between those with two copies and those with only one copy.
A study published in the American Cancer Society found that women with higher levels of physical activity before diagnosis had better five-year survival patterns compared to those with lower activity levels.
A study of 14 Swedish amateur boxers found higher levels of certain chemicals in their cerebrospinal fluid indicating injuries to neurons and astroglia after a bout. The findings suggest that amateur boxing is associated with acute neuronal and astroglial injury, warranting further investigation for medical counseling of athletes.
A comprehensive review of SARS treatment efficacy has found no evidence that any treatments were effective in treating the virus. The review examined 54 SARS treatment studies and 15 in-vitro studies but concluded that none of the treatments were successful.
Researchers at Barrow will study neurons from HH tumors to understand why seizures occur and how GABA causes excitation instead of inhibition in some HH neurons. The study aims to develop new strategies for treating gelastic epilepsy.
Researchers successfully exploited oxidative stress in cancer cells to preferentially kill malignant cells while exhibiting minimal toxicity in normal cells. The study found that a naturally occurring compound called PEITC can be used to achieve such activity.
The book commemorates Alois Alzheimer's discovery of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and explores its evolution as a major public health problem, affecting 30-40 million people worldwide. The publication brings together key voices in the field to reflect on classic studies and chart the future direction of AD research.
A recent study confirms the 'island rule,' where small animals evolve into oversized versions of their continental counterparts, while large animals shrink. Island species exhibit accelerated evolutionary changes over short time frames, with a faster rate of evolution than mainland species.
Researchers at Stanford University have created a novel biomimetic material called Duoptix TM that can be used to develop an artificial cornea. The hydrogel material is transparent, permeable to nutrients, and resistant to surface proteins and inflammation, making it suitable for surgical implantation.
Researchers found that zolmitriptan nasal spray was effective in treating cluster headaches, providing pain relief to 50% of patients. The medication's quick absorption and minimal side effects make it a potential first-line treatment option for acute cluster headaches.
A new study ranks the top applications of regenerative medicine for improving health in developing countries, including novel insulin replacement and pancreatic islet cell regeneration for diabetes. Regenerating failed heart muscle using a patient's own cells is also highly ranked.
A study by University of Bath researchers found that drivers pass closer to cyclists wearing helmets than those without, increasing the risk of a collision. The research suggests that drivers perceive cyclists with helmets as more experienced and predictable, leading them to leave less space.
Researchers have discovered a new approach to develop antibiotics, which is more efficient and environmentally friendly. This breakthrough could help create powerful new drugs to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.
Researchers argue that Uganda's dramatic decline in HIV rates was partly due to the 'ABC' approach, which included policies to advance women's status. However, critics counter that the approach assumes unrealistic social circumstances for young women, putting them at risk of exploitation and ignorance.
Research by Andreas Hemp reveals a host of rare plants in Kilimanjaro's forests, contrary to previous thought, and explains the mountain's unique bamboo zone absence due to elephant lack. The complex links between plants and animals are showcased, highlighting human impact on forest diversity.
A new study suggests that Prozac exposure can prematurely release larvae in freshwater mussels, potentially dooming them. The findings contribute to the growing concern about pharmaceutical pollution's impact on native aquatic species.
A group of tannins found in cranberries can transform E. coli bacteria into spheres, alter cell membranes and make it difficult for them to bind to cells. The results suggest whole cranberry products may have the greatest health effects against certain infections.
A California winemaker is using advanced spectroscopy and chromatography techniques to analyze grapes for optimal aroma, color, taste, and mouthfeel. This technology complements traditional methods like tasting grapes, allowing for more accurate predictions of when to harvest for better wine quality.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in improving the efficiency of solar cells, including plastic solar cells with efficiencies up to 15% and ultrathin dye-sensitized solar cells reaching 11%. Carbon nanotubes could also boost efficiency by doubling photoconversion rates.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have created 'conversation stoppers' that can block bacterial communication signals, offering a new approach to combat deadly bacterial infections. These small organic molecules can be combined with antibiotics to deliver a powerful one-two punch and minimize resistance development.
Researchers have developed a new proton exchange membrane (PEM) material that retains conductivity even at low humidity, overcoming a significant challenge for fuel cells. This breakthrough, achieved through self-assembling block copolymer materials, has the potential to increase the efficiency and feasibility of hydrogen-based energy ...
Researchers have identified a genetic variation that affects cancer susceptibility in people of African descent, which may influence drug metabolism and response. The p53 tumor-suppressor protein is regulated by the ASPP family of proteins, with one form linked to increased cancer risk near the equator.
Researchers have found a compound that can act like a bed of nails, fending off microbes from colonizing wound dressings and other implantable devices. Coating these devices with the compound could help prevent thousands of bacterial and yeast infections annually.
A new study published in the British Medical Journal suggests that routine use of anti-inflammatory drugs following hip replacement surgery may do more harm than good. The study found that patients taking ibuprofen for 14 days after surgery reported no significant reductions in hip pain or physical disability.
Researchers are developing a new combinatorial toolkit to evaluate hundreds of potential PEM fuel cell materials in a single experiment. The goal is to double membrane durability and cut costs in half. This project involves creating low-cost, thermally stable membranes using a 'formulation approach' that combines different polymers.
Blacksburg chemist James McGrath warns that focusing solely on functional polymers stifles basic research, which is crucial for discovery and innovation. He emphasizes the need to balance application-driven research with fundamental studies to prevent knowledge gaps.
Scientists are exploring the health benefits of functional foods, including mandarin oranges which may reduce liver cancer risk and a new type of flour with enhanced antioxidants. Researchers have also developed a 'designer soybean' that boosts calcium levels and fights osteoporosis.
Researchers at Georgia Tech are exploring the production of high-value chemicals from cellulose feedstocks, such as trees and fast-growing plants. These chemicals, worth up to $25 per pound, could help make ethanol produced by biorefineries cost competitive with traditional fossil fuels.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a specific drug, enoxaparin, significantly reduces major bleeding risks during stent and angioplasty procedures. The researchers also showed that patients receiving this drug were more likely to achieve optimal blood thinning levels.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that mast cells can contribute to diseases like psoriasis and cancer through a previously unknown activation mechanism. The study suggests that the CD30 protein stimulates mast cell release of proteins regulating inflammatory cell recruitment.
Researchers developed a new technique to study energetic materials, such as explosives, at the nanoscale. They mapped temperature and length-scale factors that influence their behavior, providing insights into melting, evaporation, and decomposition.
A recent study reveals that older women have as many risk factors for heart disease as men in their 60s and more by their 70s. The research, led by USC demographers, shows a shift from previous decades where older men were at greater risk.
A Purdue University researcher has shed light on the details of one mechanism by which targeted drug therapy is achieved. The understanding of how to deliver and unload a cancer drug can be extrapolated to other diseased cells, including those involved in arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn's disease.
A study by Johns Hopkins University found that US clinical researchers often resist full financial disclosure, instead opting for limited disclosures. Researchers and officials believe that disclosing the existence of financial interests can promote trust and reduce legal liability, but disagree on how to do it effectively.
Researchers at OHSU discovered that the over-expression of Smad7 causes epidermal stem cells to shift from producing hair follicles to sebaceous glands in aged skin. This finding provides a potential therapeutic approach for treating hair loss, oily skin, and certain cancers.
Researchers are using the tiny fruit fly Drosophila to identify genes that impact on the spread of human cancer cells. By combining genetic screens with functional analysis in human cell culture models, they aim to discover novel proteins involved in cell migration and invasion.
A new discipline could speed up and reduce legal proceedings over polluted sites, allowing for faster brownfield development. This could be achieved through the use of scientific evidence to prove who is responsible for environmental pollution.
A report by Stevens Institute of Technology suggests that New Jersey focus on growing small and high-potential advanced communications companies within the state. The report recommends attracting new companies from outside the state and offering matching grants and tax incentives to create a vibrant environment for sustained economic g...
A recent study by researchers at UCLA and the University of Oslo suggests that breast discomfort during hormone therapy may be an early warning sign for breast cancer. The findings indicate that women experiencing breast pain or tenderness while on hormone replacement therapy should consult their healthcare provider promptly.
A recent study confirms that asteroids can be the source of Earth's meteorites due to space weathering. The process of high-energy ion bombardment and particle vaporization changes an asteroid's optical properties, making them similar to common meteorite samples.
According to a recent survey by Rice University researchers, more than two-thirds of Hurricane Katrina evacuees in Houston plan to remain here. The survey found that 69% of the 362 participants said it was very likely or somewhat likely they would permanently stay in Houston.
Researchers at MIT use sound waves to identify pockets of natural gas and oil in fractured rocks, offering a new method for finding sweet spots. By combining data from seismic surveys and microseismic events, the team aims to improve the accuracy of hydraulic fracturing, potentially unlocking a larger share of US gas reserves.
Engineers are developing a new technique that accurately measures how sound behaves in indoor environments, enabling the design of acoustic spaces based on realistic information. This could lead to improved hearing aids and better listening experiences for millions of people.
The Consortium for Functional Glycomics, a group of scientists from around the world, has received a $40.7 million grant to unravel the mysteries of carbohydrates. The team plans to use this funding to uncover new biology and translate discoveries into treatments for disease.
The study found that healthcare use slowed immediately after the attacks and later increased for certain conditions, including ulcers and skin infections. Distance from the World Trade Center also affected healthcare utilization, with declines observed among those closest to the site.