A new study uses racemization, the conversion of an optically active compound to a racemic form, as a potential marker for extraterrestrial life. Researchers also developed more sensitive polarimeters that can detect smaller concentrations of optically active compounds in samples from outer space.
Researchers at PNNL developed thiol-SAMMS to remove mercury and other contaminants from produced waters. The technology, recently awarded for successful commercial use, has been licensed for production by Steward Advanced Materials.
Researchers at Boston Biomedical utilize bioinformatics to study the kinome of Dictyostelium, a model organism revealing unique enzymes involved in cell biology. The study identifies 46 conserved kinases across all organisms, providing insights into fundamental cellular processes.
Researchers found that HIV's Vpr protein disables host immunity by interacting with PARP-1 through the glucocorticoid receptor. This discovery provides potential novel approaches for designing new drugs to combat AIDS and inflammatory disorders.
Researchers found a positive correlation between tropical area expansion and diversity increase during global warming. Conversely, forest fragmentation during cooling periods leads to decreased diversity. The study suggests that changes in area drive speciation and extinction in the tropics.
The Duke study aims to determine whether a modified form of the investigational bird flu vaccine can trigger a strong immune response at lower doses. The seven-month trial will test varying strengths of the H5N1 vaccine, either with or without an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant.
A long-term follow-up study found no evidence of poorer outcomes in children who received CNEP, a treatment for respiratory distress syndrome. In fact, the CNEP group had higher language and visual/spatial skills compared to those receiving standard ventilation support.
The Cassini spacecraft has discovered four faint propeller-shaped double streaks in the mid-A Ring of Saturn, suggesting the presence of intermediate-sized moonlets. These findings provide evidence that Pan and Daphnis are part of a larger population of ring moons, shedding light on Saturn's ring formation and planetary evolution.
A study found that sleep apnea treatment improved the shape and pumping action of the heart, reducing high blood pressure and daytime sleepiness. Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices also reduced cardiovascular risks and improved overall health outcomes in patients.
The HPV vaccine has the potential to prevent cervical cancer, but understanding its context is vital. Vaccination should not be misconstrued as a green light for permissive behavior, but rather as a means of preventing infection in young women.
Researchers at Ohio University have discovered that gold nanoparticles can heat an area significantly larger than the nanoparticle itself, making them useful for targeting specific cells or objects. The particles' heating properties are precise and can be controlled using bio-linkers to affect specific targets.
Regional climate model simulations indicate a significant increase in extreme precipitation events in Alpine regions and northern European locations above 45 degrees latitude. In Scandinavia, unusually strong events once expected to occur every century will now occur at 20-40 year intervals.
Researchers found that a dose of 90 micrograms per shot was most effective in producing protective antibodies against bird flu. To make the vaccine available to more people, studies are underway to test an adjuvant called alum, which could allow for reduced doses and increased supply.
A team of researchers found that a component of joint fluid called lubricin forms a thin barrier to prevent contact between joint surfaces, reducing wear and tear. The combination of lubricin and hyaluronic acid produces an even greater protective effect than either substance alone.
The H5N1 avian flu vaccine has shown promise in inducing immune responses in healthy adults. Among the 99 participants who received the high-dose vaccine, 54% developed neutralizing antibodies to the vaccine at a serum dilution of 1:40 or greater.
Researchers developed a nimesulide derivative that selectively inhibits aromatase production in breast cancer cells, reducing the risk of hormone-related side effects. This could lead to more targeted treatments for postmenopausal women with estrogen-dependent breast cancer.
A team of scientists and students captured data during a rare three-minute solar eclipse to study why the Sun's corona is millions of degrees hotter than its surface. The expedition used new electronic cameras and specialized filters to record images of the corona.
A team of scientists led by Rudolf Raff discovered that certain conditions, such as the presence of hydrogen sulfide, can facilitate the fossilization of early animal embryos. The findings suggest that fossils from 500 million years ago may be embryos encased in a fertilization envelope and fossilized under highly reducing conditions.
A lack of specialist training for nurses is failing adolescent cancer patients, according to a nurse manager at the Manchester Teenage Cancer Trust Unit. The unique needs of teenagers and young adults with cancer require expertise in disease management, symptom control, and psychosocial issues.
A tiny packet containing a grayish powder has been shown to dramatically reduce diarrheal deaths caused by contaminated water. The system, called PUR Purifier of Water, can kill deadly pathogens and remove toxic metals, and is now being distributed globally for free
Researchers found a common serotonin transporter promoter gain-of-function variant linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The study suggests improved screening, treatment, and medication development for OCD.
A recent study conducted by Virginia Tech researchers found that the Swedish Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) method produces repairs with excellent durability. The study, which used a controlled biotribology device, compared the wear of ACI-repaired cartilage to normal cartilage from the same joint.
Low oxygen levels in ocean 'dead zones' can induce sex changes in embryonic fish, leading to an overabundance of males and potentially threatening species with extinction. The study found that 75% of zebra fish developed male characteristics under low oxygen conditions.
Researchers have identified certain metabolites that can trigger breast and prostate cancer, paving the way for early detection and prevention. The study's findings suggest a novel approach to cancer prevention by eliminating these initiating steps.
The study finds that healthy ecosystems can mitigate the effects of disasters like landslides and floods. Mainstreaming sustainable biodiversity management into policy decisions may reverse ecosystem degradation trends.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University discovered a way to create polymers that can conduct electricity by growing very pure, single RRP chains. The study shows that the nanostructure of these plastics enhances their ability to conduct electricity, and that increasing the width of RRP nanofibrils exponentially increases charge carri...
Researchers have found that bacteria's minimal genome should be at least twice its size to ensure survival. This discovery was made using a new approach to genome modeling that takes into account an organism's evolutionary history and environment. The findings were published in Nature.
Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for breast cancer metastasis to bone, where 70% of patients develop bone metastases. The study found that osteoprotegerin inhibits RANKL, a protein promoting bone breakdown and cancer cell growth.
Researchers develop genetically engineered proteins to form erasable chemical detectors. They also create self-grown forests of molecular 'bottlebrushes' that keep themselves contamination-free. Additionally, they design auto-assembled DNA 'towers' that could serve as anchors for the tiniest devices.
The UK's first Professor of Teenage and Young Adult Cancer emphasizes the need for improved communication and coordination among pediatricians, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals. Currently, TYA cancer patients often receive sub-standard treatment due to fragmented care.
The Journal addresses areas such as clinical health care and staffing, providing a forum for discussions on collaborations between corrections and public health programs. A free sample issue will be available online in April, offering researchers and practitioners access to the best available research on correctional medicine.
Scientists have discovered evidence of moonlets in Saturn's rings, bridging the gap between larger moons and smaller ice particles. This finding supports the theory that Saturn's rings were formed when another object fragmented close to the planet, with the discovery providing insight into the origin of planets.
Scientists have engineered tiny silica particles to carry pharmaceuticals into cells using biocompatible materials and controlled release mechanisms. The mesoporous nanospheres can selectively target cancer cells by releasing drugs in response to specific chemicals, reducing side effects and increasing treatment efficacy.
Researchers found a 35% decline in HIV-1 prevalence among women in southern India, dropping from 1.7% to 1.1%, and an even greater reduction of 36% among men aged 20-29 attending STI clinics. The authors attribute the decrease to increased condom use in sex work or abstinence by males.
Researchers at PNNL have developed a microchannel distillation unit to create a light fraction of JP-8, which is then reacted in a hydrodesulfurization process powered by syngas. The use of syngas allows for significant increases in throughput and decreases in operating pressure compared to conventional technology.
The study found that children with superior IQs have a cortex that thickens rapidly and peaks earlier than those with average or high IQs. The researchers suggest that this may be due to an extended critical period for development of high-level cognitive circuits.
Researchers at University of California, Riverside, are developing a software-based thermal sensing system to monitor heat changes during run time. The system aims to address design shortcomings in traditional temperature sensors, which can lead to performance degradation.
A palaeontologist proposes that gradual climate change caused most mass extinctions, including the Permian and Triassic events. This theory challenges the widely accepted asteroid impact hypothesis.
Researchers at Rice University propose a novel approach to combat Dengue virus by administering multiple vaccines simultaneously at different locations on the body, bypassing immunodominance and enhancing immunity against all four closely related viruses. This strategy has implications for other diseases such as HIV and cancer.
Researchers have identified specific types of cancers that peak in incidence among teenagers and young adults, shedding light on potential causes. Infections, adolescent growth spurts, and hormonal factors are thought to contribute to the development of these cancers, with further research needed for conclusive evidence.
Researchers developed RGD peptide liposomes to deliver dexamethasone phosphate directly to VECs at sites of inflammation, reducing arthritis severity and disease progression. The study demonstrates the potential of targeted liposomal therapy for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
The STEPPS program, developed by Nancee Blum and colleagues, enhances standard treatment for borderline personality disorder with group meetings focusing on self-awareness and behavioral skills. Researchers in the Netherlands report a significant reduction in hospitalization days and improved symptoms among participants.
Researchers at Cornell University and Harvard Medical School found that Pin1 enzyme accelerates amyloid precursor protein (APP) toggle between its good and bad forms, preventing plaque buildup and tangles. This discovery opens up new therapeutic approaches to treating Alzheimer's.
The new test measures minimal residual disease and helps identify patients who can be cured with milder treatment. It has been implemented in Brazil to treat children with lower MRD levels, reducing the risk of fatal infections.
A recent study by Université Laval found that children who slept less than 10 hours a night were 3.5 times more at risk of being overweight than those who slept 12 or more hours.
A study by Markus Harting found that glass spherules from Mexico to Haiti match the chemical composition of rocks melted at Chicxulub. The reworked spherules are misplaced in sediments close to the K-T boundary, casting doubt on previous timelines.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have identified a new gene, S100P, that causes the rapid spread of cancerous cells. The discovery builds on previous findings and aims to develop drugs that can switch off the action of metastasis-inducing genes.
Researchers identified adult human multipotent stem cells derived from the periosteum, which can regenerate cartilage, muscle, and bone. The study showed that these cells can contribute to muscle regeneration and form cartilage when implanted into a joint surface defect.
A new childhood-onset epilepsy disorder, cortical dysplasia-focal epilepsy syndrome (CDFE), has been identified in a group of Old Order Amish children. The disorder is caused by a genetic mutation in the CASPR2 protein, which plays a crucial role in maintaining physical contacts between neurons and neighboring glial cells.
A DNA gene vaccine successfully reduced amyloid-beta 42 protein buildup in the brains of mice with a genetic mutation associated with Alzheimer's disease. The vaccine elicited high levels of antibodies and significantly decreased brain plaques, offering a promising therapeutic option for the disease.
A University of Toronto study found HIV infection rates declining in South India, likely due to increased condom use and awareness programs. The study tracked data from antenatal clinics, showing a significant decrease in new infections among young adults.
Researchers identified two critical molecular events: PICK1's role in removing AMPA receptors and phosphorylation's effect on the receptor. These findings provide new understanding of long-term depression and its connection to motor learning, such as the vestibulo-ocular reflex.
Researchers discovered that blocking the Hedgehog pathway kills cancer cells while leaving healthy liver tissue intact. This finding offers hope for targeted treatments and diagnostic tests for liver cancer.
Liposome technology has been shown to improve tissue delivery of therapeutic compounds, achieving effects equivalent to 10-fold higher doses. Specific targeting of liposomes to inflamed cells in the synovium has also been successfully demonstrated, reducing synovial inflammation without conventional side effects.
Tribopolymerization reduces wear in liquid and vapor phase applications by forming self-replenishing protective polymer films on rubbing surfaces. The US-Poland collaboration developed effective additives for reducing wear with metals, alloys, and ceramics.
A large trial found that vitamin C and E supplements did not reduce the incidence of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women at high risk. However, they were associated with a higher risk of low birthweight babies and increased need for treatment.
The study found that middle-aged donors (40-59 years old) are the largest group, representing 45% of all donors. E-mail reminders and 'Bring a Friend Day' events will be used to engage young donors in the future.
Researchers have discovered that the sweetgum tree contains significant amounts of shikimic acid, a key ingredient in the production of Tamiflu, a treatment for bird flu. This finding could help alleviate the global shortage of the drug, which has sparked concerns over a potential pandemic.
A study found that new mothers experience six common postpartum symptoms, including fatigue, breast discomfort, and decreased desire for sex. Women who had cesarean sections reported significantly worse physical health than those who gave birth vaginally. Breastfeeding was also linked to more symptoms.
A new screening technique using tandem mass spectrometry can detect seven devastating diseases with enzyme deficiencies in lysosomes. Early diagnosis enables the administration of treatments to repair the biochemical chain and minimize damage, offering improved quality of life for affected children.