The Gerontological Society of America awarded 16 students with stipends to attend workshops on research skills at the 2006 Annual Scientific Meeting in Dallas, TX and San Francisco, CA. The GSA, founded in 1945, supports over 5,000 researchers, educators, and professionals advancing gerontological research.
Researchers found genetic markers revealing the origins of two major rice types grown today: Oryza sativa indica from India and Myanmar, and Oryza sativa japonica from southern China. The study's findings provide insights into improving the crop's nutritional value and disease resistance in Asia.
Researchers at UC Davis have identified a peptide that targets malignant lymphocytes, distinguishing it from healthy ones. The peptide, LLP2A, has the potential to be used as an imaging agent for patients with lymphoid cancers, offering a more targeted approach than existing monoclonal antibodies.
Scientists have discovered a link between bacterial growth fueled by algae and the death of corals. The study shows that bacteria suffocate corals by cutting off oxygen supply, leading to a positive feedback loop that accelerates reef decline. Human activities such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change exacerbate this process.
Researchers used high-intensity x-ray beams to create crystal structures of enzymes and their cofactors, revealing an alternating binding mechanism that enables continuous turnover of toxic compounds. This discovery may help understand metabolic disorders and develop corrective measures.
The Aymara language locates the past ahead and the future behind, defying the conventional spatial metaphor for chronology. The study's findings suggest that cognition of everyday abstractions like time is partly a cultural phenomenon.
Researchers identify abnormal fasting glucose levels as a risk factor for neuropathy, suggesting an earlier stage of disordered glucose metabolism. The study's findings support the hypothesis that impaired glucose tolerance may be a milder precursor to neuropathies associated with diabetes.
A recent animal study found that trans fat consumption can lead to weight gain despite controlled calorie intake. The study, led by Kylie Kavanagh and Lawrence L. Rudel, discovered that male monkeys fed a western-style diet rich in trans fat gained 7.2% more body weight compared to those on a monounsaturated fat diet.
Researchers use computer simulations to gain insights into material properties and behavior that cannot be observed through experiments. Simulations have been shown to accurately predict the reliability of materials that coat surfaces, offering a more complete understanding than traditional experimental methods.
Researchers used gene therapy to deliver glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) directly to the brain cells of mice with Huntington's disease, protecting neurons from degeneration. The study showed improved behavioral function and reduced symptoms in mice treated with GDNF, suggesting a new approach to forestall disease progression.
Researchers De Paepe and Taddei found that bacteriophages exhibit life history trade-offs between survival and reproduction, with rapid reproducers suffering higher casualties outside the host. Two physical parameters account for most of the observed variation in survival, suggesting a fundamental property of evolving entities.
Researchers discovered a link between phosphodiesterase 11A enzyme deficiency and the development of rare tumors in patients with adrenal disorders. The study found four patients with mutant copies of the PDE11A gene, leading to higher levels of cyclic nucleotides that may stimulate tumor growth.
Researchers at UCLA have made an important advancement in protein engineering by developing a new method to control proteins using nanotechnology. They successfully replaced the natural chemical mechanism controlling protein function with mechanical control, opening up possibilities for reduced side effects and improved treatment options.
The CHICAGO trial will examine ACTOS' effect on blood vessel health and atherosclerosis, beyond glycemic control. The 18-month study aims to gather further information about the management of cardiovascular disease in people with type 2 diabetes.
A study found that intercontinental migration from Africa can improve the welfare position of households with migrants by increasing their capital and allowing them to invest in productive activities. This not only benefits the migrant-sending countries but also provides a source of cheap labor for European countries, helping to allevi...
Researchers developed a gene expression signature to distinguish Burkitt lymphoma from diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), leading to improved treatment outcomes. The test's accuracy was validated in a study of 71 untreated patients, with marked superiority in overall survival rates.
Researchers at Einstein College of Medicine have observed a phenomenon where a gene plays a major role in organism development, displaying pulses of transcription that turn on and off at irregular intervals. This discovery could enable precise regulation of development by allowing genes to be turned on and off as needed, similar to a t...
Researchers have developed a new microbeam radiation therapy (MRT) technique that can deliver more lethal doses to tumors while sparing healthy tissue. The improved method uses significantly thicker microbeams and interlaces them within a well-defined target volume to increase killing potential.
A new study has discovered a novel estrogen receptor that differs significantly from existing receptors, with potential implications for anti-estrogen breast cancer therapy. The receptor, hER-?36, is predominantly localized on the cell plasma membrane and stimulates cell growth through the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway.
The ECHO project grant funds innovative chemical research, including new synthetic methodologies and single metal nanoparticles in catalytic action. Researchers investigate ultrasmall magnets' behavior to understand fluid formation, and study peroxisomal enzymes' functionality and uptake.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a protein secretion system in Pseudomonas aeruginosa that plays a critical role in the infection of cystic fibrosis patients. The discovery provides evidence for a new treatment target, offering hope for combating this deadly disease.
Researchers found that monkeys vaccinated against simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) survived longer after infection compared to unvaccinated animals. The vaccine regimen preserved memory CD4+ T cells, enabling the animals to live healthier lives.
A new study reveals that the Third Franciscan Order had a favourable attitude towards its members' lifestyle and was driven by voluntary participation. The order's development into a more ordered way of life was not solely due to Church pressure, but also an early expression of desire for monastic reform.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have made significant progress in understanding the efficacy of an AIDS vaccine. The study found that vaccines can control HIV infection for approximately 100 days, followed by nearly three years, with vaccinated monkeys living significantly longer than unvaccinated ones.
A study of 169 Caucasian women aged 10-70 found that skin tone and luminosity significantly impact perceived attractiveness and age. Even skin tone was associated with higher ratings for health and youthfulness, while uneven tone added years to perceived age.
A new vaccine called NicVax is being tested to prevent and treat nicotine addiction, with the goal of helping smokers quit. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that recognize nicotine molecules, preventing them from entering the brain.
Researchers distinguish between ambition formation and decision to run, finding that 'progressive ambition' exists prior to a decision in a particular race. Professional legislators are more successful at raising money and gaining votes, leading to enhanced accountability and responsiveness in U.S. House campaigns.
Changes in land use have significant effects on the global environment, such as climate and ecosystem functions. In San Mariano, a 48,000-hectare area underwent transformation from forested to intensive rice and maize cultivation.
NIST and DuPont researchers have developed a nondestructive method for measuring how temperature affects the electrical properties of common circuit board materials, including ceramic, polymer, and glass. The technique enables faster, less expensive, and easier testing, as well as improved performance in designing circuits and substrates.
The US government has approved a multi-million dollar surveillance network to track the avian flu virus overseas. The Global Avian Influenza Network for Surveillance (GAINS) will provide valuable forecasts on viral storms, enabling the prevention of avian flu spread and preparation for outbreaks.
Frangible bullets are becoming increasingly popular due to their lead-free nature and reduced risk of exposure. NIST researchers have developed a Kolsky bar apparatus to test the performance of these bullets on various materials, including soft body armors worn by law enforcement officers.
Researchers at the Salk Institute identified a key role for the TOPLESS gene in plant development, enabling them to engineer plants to grow leaves or flowers instead of roots. This breakthrough allows for the manipulation of plant polarity later in embryogenesis, offering opportunities for agricultural improvements.
Researchers examined the mosquito immune system and found that it employs similar factors to defend against different Plasmodium species. Boosting the mosquito's capacity to fight malaria parasites could be achieved through exposure to certain microbes or compounds.
The L'Oréal USA Fellowships for Women In Science program recognizes young women in groundbreaking research, focusing on cell biology, organic chemistry, conservation, optics, and cellular biophysics. The program aims to support their careers and build networks, encouraging a diverse range of scientific advancements.
A study found that basic study facts and limitations are often missing from news coverage of medical research presented at scientific meetings. Researchers emphasized the importance of including study size, design, and potential limitations to prevent public misinterpretation.
Scientists have long suspected that massive star supernovae produce dust, but previous technology limitations hindered confirmation. A new study reveals that supernovae are indeed a major contributor to the early universe's dust, enabling rapid star formation and heavy element creation.
A recent study found that men tend to gauge their partner's sexual interest before women do, with men's ratings of women influenced by physical attractiveness but not agreeableness. Women, on the other hand, rated their male partners higher on both physical attractiveness and agreeableness.
Claire French, a PhD student, has developed an easy-to-use test to distinguish between skin, vaginal, and mouth cells, with potential applications in forensic science. Andrew Graham and Hayley Reynolds have also been recognized for their research in medical robotics and melanoma detection, respectively.
Bacteria have a unique immune system called H-NS that protects against foreign DNA, but can also enable the expression of disease-causing genes. This discovery has major implications for the biotech industry, which uses bacteria to produce recombinant proteins.
The American Geological Institute publishes Coal and the Environment, a framework for understanding coal's mining and use impacts. The report discusses new clean-coal technologies and regulations to reduce harmful emissions.
OHSU researchers found that interleukin-15 (IL-15) restores tissue CD4+ T cells when given with antiretroviral drugs in SIV-infected monkeys. This discovery offers hope for effective therapies to boost HIV patients' immune systems.
Researchers found that patients with higher HtrA1 levels responded better to chemotherapy, while lower levels were associated with resistance. The study suggests HtrA1 mediates cancer cell killing and loss of HtrA1 contributes to chemotherapy resistance.
A new study found that most of the Earth began warming at the same time around 17,500 years ago, despite Greenland remaining in a deep-freeze for 2,500 years. This finding is consistent with temperature records and global atmospheric CO2 records from Antarctica.
A study found that HtrA1 protein contributes to chemotherapy resistance in ovarian and gastric cancers by inducing cell death, while ghrelin hormone promotes the storage of energy as fat by altering gene expression in adipose cells. The findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for obesity treatment.
A study published in The Lancet found that New Zealand's Maori patients had a higher risk of preventable adverse events in hospital than non-Maori patients. Despite a publicly funded hospital system, Maori received marginally poorer care, with 14% of admissions associated with adverse events compared to 11% for non-Maori populations.
Researchers found that sand gazelles' livers and hearts decrease in mass during food and water restriction. The animals also store fats in their brains to secure brain metabolism during prolonged deprivation.
A study reviewing 40 years of disaster research found that PTSD affects a substantial burden of people who experience disasters. The most important risk factors for developing PTSD are the extent of exposure and the scope of the disaster.
Strong evidence shows that higher taxes and restrictions on alcohol availability can reduce Europe's growing burden of alcohol-related harm. However, EU governments are prioritizing vested interests in free trade over public health.
Researchers have discovered a new class of small RNAs called piRNAs in the mouse germline, which are bigger than previously described small RNAs. These novel small RNAs are thought to play a role in spermatogenesis and have unique features that distinguish them from other types of small RNAs.
Researchers at the University of Florida have found that bone marrow cells can regenerate damaged retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, which play a crucial role in vision health. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and provide hope for patients with sight-robbing injuries.
A study found that greater religious involvement is associated with a lower mortality risk, particularly among those with church-based social relationships. The research suggests that giving emotional support to others in the congregation can decrease stress and mortality rates, but not the other way around.
A study found that repeat doses of prenatal corticosteroids can reduce respiratory distress syndrome and severe lung disease in premature babies. The treatment also showed fewer need for oxygen therapy and help with breathing.
A new device developed by Dr. Babs Soller detects circulatory shock earlier than current methods, which rely on blood pressure and heart rate. The sensor analyzes muscle oxygen and acid levels to predict impending problems.
The new NIST technique coats a silicon wafer with a brush-like copolymer surface, varying the relative concentration of two components along the length of the substrate. This method accommodates a wide variety of materials and can produce test surfaces for studying surface phenomena in fields like tissue engineering and materials science.
Researchers report improved survival rates with RP101, a novel compound being investigated as a potential therapeutic for advanced pancreatic cancer. In two studies, patients showed significant improvements in median survival and time to progression, offering hope for patients affected by the disease.
Researchers catalogued and characterized 30 mycobacteriophages, finding 3,357 genes in 1,536 'phamilies' with significant genetic diversity. This discovery has implications for understanding diseases like tuberculosis and leprosy.
A team of researchers has achieved a significant breakthrough in treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy by successfully transplanting healthy muscle cells into patients, showing promise for increasing the production of the missing protein dystrophin. The new clinical trials aim to further assess the treatment's effectiveness and measure ...
Researchers have discovered gene SLIRP with the potential to shut down oestrogen in breast cancer cells and testosterone in prostate cancer cells, depending on the cancers' survival. This breakthrough could lead to the development of 'smart' drugs that target specific genes, potentially reducing side effects and improving survival rates.
Patients with atrial fibrillation have a five times higher stroke risk than those without the condition. Warfarin has been shown to reduce stroke risk by a significant margin, outperforming alternative treatments like aspirin and clopidogrel in reducing stroke rates by nearly two-thirds.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that polyQ-AR, a mutated protein in Kennedy disease, inhibits fast axonal transport by activating JNK enzyme. This inhibition leads to selective neuron death and loss of motor neurons.