Researchers found that northern forest fires could lead to a net cooling effect due to the reflection of sunlight by deciduous trees with light green leaves. This study suggests re-examining strategies for reducing carbon dioxide emissions through ecosystem management.
A combination of negative personality traits such as depression, anxiety and hostility significantly increase the risk of developing coronary heart disease. The study, conducted on 2,105 military veterans, found that individuals with these traits had a higher risk of heart disease when compared to those without the traits.
Researchers have resolved key questions about DNA transcription using nanotech tools, revealing a molecular machine that remains stationary and 'reels in' adjacent DNA segments during initial synthesis. This breakthrough advances understanding of the structure and function of transcription, setting the stage for new opportunities in co...
Geologists have developed a new theory explaining how and when the Appalachian Mountain range was created. The study reveals that the complex was originally attached to Gondwana before colliding with North America, closing the Rheic Ocean and forming Pangea.
A recent study reports a 100% success rate for ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterisation, reducing bloodstream infections and arterial punctures compared to traditional landmark methods. The use of real-time ultrasound images also significantly reduces the time required to insert the catheter and the number of attempts.
Researchers propose a novel treatment strategy for retinopathy by repairing abnormal blood vessels instead of destroying them. The study shows that transplanted bone marrow-derived cells can convert leaky blood vessels into normal ones, suggesting a potential therapy for human diseases like ROP.
A new edible coating composed of apple puree and oregano oil has shown promise in killing deadly E. coli bacteria while providing flavor enhancement to food. The coating's effectiveness was demonstrated through laboratory studies, which found it to be more concentrated and longer-lasting than conventional produce washes.
A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology found that switching to anastrozole after 2-3 years of tamoxifen treatment significantly improves overall survival and reduces the risk of recurrence for postmenopausal women with hormone-sensitive early-stage breast cancer. The study analyzed data from three trials and used meta-analysis...
A study found that one-third of pregnancies in Edinburgh, Scotland ended in unintended childbirth, with around a quarter of women being ambivalent about their intention to become pregnant. The researchers emphasize the need for improved contraception use and awareness-raising strategies to reduce unintended pregnancies.
Researchers found that antisense RNA molecules protect sex cells from self-destructing by blocking sense RNA production. This discovery reveals a new process of gene regulation and its potential application to mammals.
Researchers suggest repairing abnormal blood vessels in retinopathy using adult bone marrow–derived myeloid progenitor cells. Dendritic cells form part of granuloma walls containing Listeria monocytogenes, maintaining integrity through immunosuppressive protein IDO.
Scientists at UCI found that forest fires can lead to cooling of the northern climate due to increased snow reflectivity. This study suggests that preventing boreal forest fires could have unintended consequences on global temperatures.
A study found a significant increase in condom use among young women in sub-Saharan Africa, with 60% using condoms for pregnancy prevention. The authors suggest that promoting condoms as a method for pregnancy prevention may be more effective than focusing on HIV transmission prevention.
A study published in Science suggests that the standard trivalent vaccine is not effective in poor sanitation and high population density states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where polio persists. Using a monovalent vaccine may boost efficacy and help eradicate the virus.
The U.S. will maintain a leadership role in science and technology thanks to Argonne's involvement in the SciDAC program. Projects focus on creating software and infrastructure for petascale supercomputers.
A new software system called SPRUCE provides computational resources quickly for emergency applications affecting public health, safety, and security. The system supports urgent computing on both traditional supercomputers and distributed Grids, enabling rapid access to massive resources during emergencies.
An alliance is being formed in India to conduct Parkinson's disease clinical trials, which will aid in the development of new treatments and slow down disease progression. The initiative aims to bring attention to the condition in India, where only a few neurologists specialize in movement disorders.
Dr. Joshua Bongard's research enables robots to detect damage and teach themselves to continue walking despite missing limbs. This innovation is crucial for NASA's planetary missions where robots need to be able to fix themselves without human assistance.
A RAND Corporation study suggests the US should focus on undermining support for Islamic terrorism within Muslim nations to defeat the global jihadist movement. The report emphasizes the importance of attacking the ideology's core principles and severing links between terrorist groups.
A new study found that exercising regularly can lead to more effective weight loss than following a calorie-restricted diet, as exercise helps preserve muscle mass and improve aerobic capacity. Those who exercised lost between 9-10% of their body weight, while dieters lost 9-10%, but also experienced reduced muscle mass.
A Johns Hopkins University-led team has discovered two new subatomic particles, called Sigma-sub-b particles, which are members of the 'baryonic' family. The particles contain the second-heaviest quark and are unstable, decaying within a tiny fraction of a second.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified a new protein called Tribbles associated with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The study found that Tribbles induces AML by inactivating the C/EBPá protein, providing a potential therapeutic target.
Researchers at the Salk Institute reveal how cellular repair proteins recruit a second machinery to create a protective structure at chromosome ends, maintaining chromosomal stability. Telomeres exist to prevent damage and ensure cell division integrity.
A recent genetic study reveals that humans and Neanderthals shared a common ancestor around 706,000 years ago, but the two species diverged around 370,000 years ago. The study found no evidence of genetic admixture between Neanderthals and humans, contradicting previous theories.
Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) was strongly associated with the development of respiratory symptoms, including cough, wheeze, and dyspnea, in healthy never-smokers. The study found a particular risk among individuals with bronchial hyper-reactivity who were persistently exposed to ETS.
Research by Oregon State University found that B-vitamins are essential for energy conversion and cell production. Athletes with marginal deficiencies may experience impaired repair and building of muscle, leading to decreased performance.
Researchers have identified a gene called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) that optimizes muscle activity. Genetic modification of mice expressing this activated state shows increased exercise capacity and accumulation of muscle glycogen, potentially leading to new treatments for muscle diseases and improved athletic performance.
A device implanted in US patients with severe hypertension shows significant reduction in blood pressure, averaging 22mmHg systolic and 18mmHg diastolic. The Rheos System activates the body's baroreflex system to lower blood pressure through electrical stimulation.
Researchers developed a vaccine that stimulates colorectal cancer patients' immune systems to fight cancerous cells, with 70% of patients producing TNF-alpha and GM-CSF in response. The vaccine works by generating infection-fighting white blood cells called T cells, which destroy cancer cells.
The LSU Health Sciences Center is launching a project to evaluate the influence of simulation on teamwork and patient safety in operating rooms. The research aims to develop an innovative training model that combines realistic mannequin-based simulation, patient scenarios, and a mobile mock operating room with interdisciplinary teams.
A RAND Corporation study found that nursing homes with high staff and resident vaccination rates are less likely to experience flu outbreaks. Vaccination rates of over 55% for staff and 89% for residents were associated with a 60% reduction in influenza-like illness cases.
The House Science Committee's Chairman Sherwood Boehlert and Ranking Democrat Bart Gordon call for the implementation of a new research agenda on the environmental, health, and safety implications of nanotechnology. The paper recommends prioritized priorities for examining potential consequences over the next decade and a half, which c...
Researchers analyzed mitochondrial genes of 70 lemurs suspected of being different species due to striking coat colors, finding they belonged to the same Microcebus griseorufus species. Genetic analysis revealed no significant differences among them, suggesting that morphological variations may not necessarily indicate distinct species.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University conclude that antibiotics are not effective in treating short-term bronchitis, which is usually caused by viral infections. The study suggests that physicians should inform patients that there is no data to support the use of antibiotics for this condition, saving them from potential side...
Two new outreach projects involving Alaska Native and urban Appalachian communities aim to increase awareness about the importance of family health histories. The projects will develop community-based models to promote health and prevent disease, using technology to quickly read genomes and devise personalized health strategies.
Researchers have created a diagnostic test that can detect viruses like influenza, HIV, and RSV in under 60 seconds using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The technique works by measuring the change in frequency of a near-infrared laser as it scatters off viral DNA or RNA.
A new analysis by Duke University Medical Center cardiologists found that taking low-dose aspirin daily reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death among patients with stable cardiovascular disease. The study also showed an increased risk of bleeding, but the protective benefits of aspirin outweigh this side effect.
A study of over 44,000 patients found that blood transfusions were associated with a benefit in those with low hematocrit levels but harm in others. For patients with moderate hematocrit levels, transfusions showed no benefit or harm, suggesting providers may reconsider their decision-making process.
Children who smoke cigarettes have nearly four times the risk of developing asthma in their teens, and those exposed to cigarette smoke in utero face an even higher risk. The study draws on data from the Children's Health Study, a longitudinal study of respiratory health among children in southern California communities.
A recent paper identifies Five Grand Challenges for research on nanotechnology risk to meet the full potential of the technology. The challenges include developing a universal aerosol sampler, assessing fiber-shaped nanoparticles' health hazards, and engineering safe-by-design nanomaterials.
A Rutgers College of Nursing professor will examine the attitudes and beliefs of young Latinas towards physical activity. The study aims to develop a culturally appropriate physical activity intervention that addresses cultural beliefs and time management issues.
Astronomers have mapped the rate of acceleration of cosmic ray electrons in a supernova remnant, showing close to maximum theoretical rates. The discovery provides evidence that supernova remnants are key sites for energizing charged particles.
Adolescents who smoke regularly have a significantly increased risk of developing asthma, with a four-fold increase in risk for those who smoked 300 or more cigarettes per year. The study found that exposure to cigarette smoke in the womb and later smoking habits also significantly raised the risk of asthma.
Researchers at Queen's University have uncovered molecular mechanisms of a cancer-causing protein linked to thyroid cancer, paving the way for new treatments and potential prevention methods. The study provides valuable tools for targeting specific actions of the protein, which may aid in the development of anticancer therapies.
A study published in Clinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis reveals Pycnogenol, an antioxidant plant extract from pine tree bark, effectively reduces swelling in patients taking antihypertensive medications by 36%. The treatment also improves blood circulation, avoiding blood pooling and reducing edema.
Research on mice carrying a mutated human gene for alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency found that a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug significantly increased liver damage. The study suggests that NSAIDs could exacerbate liver injury in people with alpha-1-AT deficiency, highlighting the need to avoid these drugs.
Fourteen top scientists propose five critical challenges for nanotechnology risk research, including identifying potential health and environmental hazards. They will discuss their recommendations at a live webcast on November 16th, 2006.
The collaboration reveals that modern human and Neandertal DNA sequences diverged on average about 500,000 years ago. The sequencing team aims to reconstruct a draft of the 3 billion bases that made up the genome of Neandertals, shedding light on human biology.
A recent study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that lemurs with strikingly different coat colors are genetically related and belong to the same species. The research analyzed mitochondrial genes from 70 mouse lemurs, showing they all belong to Microcebus griseorufus, regardless of their geographical location.
Researchers developed a new formula to design flows that break polymers into specific lengths or withstand certain flows, with potential implications for industries like shipping and oil. This discovery also enables more precise control over the length of DNA strands in genome sequencing.
Researchers discovered a new pathway that regulates the p53 protein, a key molecule controlling cancer in humans. The study suggests potential approaches to diagnosing or intervening in cancer progression.
The U.S. Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization has discovered a crucial pathway that supports the influenza A virus's ability to reproduce itself. This finding could lead to the development of new live vaccines and antiviral drugs for influenza epidemics and pandemics.
The genomes of Neanderthals and modern humans are at least 99.5-percent identical, yet there is no evidence of significant crossbreeding between the two species. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of human evolution and ancestry.
Researchers discovered a novel 'Trojan Horse' agent, VEGF121/rGel, that completely prevented bone tumor development in 50% of mice. The agent stops specialized cells within the bone from chewing up bone material to make room for implanted tumors to grow.
Vanderbilt researchers have successfully produced movies that provide the first direct view of the initial stage of myelin sheath formation in nerves. The process is more dynamic than previously thought, with cells continually sending out tiny tentacles to readjust their positions.
Researchers developed a nanoparticle delivery system that targets brain tumors, allowing for higher doses of drugs to be delivered while minimizing harm to healthy tissue. The technology has the potential to improve treatment outcomes and eliminate common side effects associated with photodynamic therapy.
Researchers have identified key genetic changes required for the H5N1 avian influenza virus to adapt to easily recognize human receptors. The study provides a molecular blueprint for these changes, which could help detect pandemic strains earlier and prepare public health officials and vaccine manufacturers.
A team of researchers found that controlling population peaks on the edges of the gypsy moth range can help slow their invasion into virgin territory. The study's findings suggest that suppressing outbreaks near the invasion front could reduce the number of dispersers and prevent periodic surges of growth.
A study analyzed 227 adult patients with neck pain who participated in a larger prospective, randomized, open-label study. After four weeks, patients reported a 30.7% reduction in pain intensity, suggesting that Kadian offers broad utility for even the most disabling types of chronic pain.
Researchers found a key region in the brain of primitively social paper wasp is better developed in dominant females than in subordinate ones. In contrast to highly social species, where age and foraging tasks influence brain development, dominance interactions dictate task performance in primitively social colonies.