A new study published in Science estimates that at least 200,000 people have died in Darfur, far exceeding previous estimates of tens of thousands. The study's authors used primary surveys and extrapolation to arrive at this revised estimate, which underscores the urgency of the situation.
A study by molecular biologists at Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine suggests that the most stable parts of a protein are also the parts that fold first. The research combined advanced computational modeling with cutting-edge experiments to investigate protein folding.,
Researchers found accelerated brain changes in people with Parkinson's, while mice exposed to pesticides showed increased oxidative stress and reduced dopamine uptake. Exposure to banned pesticides like dieldrin may increase the risk of developing Parkinson's earlier in life.
A study found that African-American parents' messages to their children about race vary depending on the neighborhood, with high-risk neighborhoods associated with better cognitive development. Promoting mistrust of other races was linked to behavior problems in low-risk but not high-risk neighborhoods.
Researchers at Stanford University have found that Gleevec can block the development of disease in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis, providing hope for a new treatment. Imatinib inhibits the function of immune cells contributing to RA and also suppresses joint cell proliferation.
The University of North Carolina has received a $21.3 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop new treatments for late-stage African sleeping sickness and visceral leishmaniasis. The project aims to create affordable therapies for diseases affecting hundreds of thousands of people in developing nations.
A study finds that children of immigrants are more likely to pursue math and science careers due to higher economic aspirations and parental expectations. The research suggests a positive impact on the US economy as these individuals contribute to the nation's changing workforce needs.
Researchers found that a compartment of the spleen called the marginal zone is where autoreactive B cells are primarily located. Transplanting immune cells from this zone into mice with lupus-like disease led to the production of pathogenic antibodies, highlighting the spleen as a potential target for new therapies.
Researchers investigate chitosan, a natural and safe biomaterial found in crab and prawn exoskeletons, as a potential chelator to reduce radiation dose. Chitosan's ability to bind and remove radionuclides like cobalt, strontium, and radium is being tested in laboratory rats.
The World Trade Organization is expected to rule on biotechnology-altered foods, with differing perceptions about the 'precautionary principle' leading to trade clashes. The Japan-based Institute for Advanced Studies of the United Nations University calls for international agreement on common approaches to risk assessment.
A study found that African-American children who experienced racial discrimination were more likely to report symptoms of depression and engage in antisocial behavior. However, those with supportive homes, friends, and schools were less likely to develop problems. Positive relationships with parents, friends, and teachers also played a...
Rutgers scientists have developed a polymer-based drug delivery system to kill bacteria that attack gum tissue during periodontal disease, promoting healing and regeneration of tissue and bone around teeth. The system treats bacterial infection, inflammation, and pain with pharmaceuticals incorporated into the material itself.
Research at Mayo Clinic found that 16% of men experience moderate or higher pain during prostate biopsies, with the injection of lidocaine causing more pain than ultrasound insertion. The location of biopsy, specifically the prostate apex, is a significant predictor of pain scores.
A new report from the Commonwealth Fund finds that nearly nine of 10 individuals who seek individual market health insurance are unable to secure coverage due to unaffordability or pre-existing conditions. Those with high-deductible plans face significant cost burdens, including higher out-of-pocket expenses and increased medical debt.
Researchers confirm the Olmec people wrote down their speech around 900 BC, based on nearby art and a stone block discovery in southern Veracruz, Mexico. This finding is significant as it marks the first strong indication of visual recorded speech among the Olmec civilization.
Researchers propose using existing facilities to produce vaccines from cell cultures, which could make enough doses to cover the US in just 3-4 months. This approach would reduce downtime and capital investments required for new dedicated facilities.
Jean Futrell, a Battelle Fellow at PNNL, receives the American Chemical Society's Frank H. Field and Joe L. Franklin Award for his contributions to mass spectrometry theory and practice. His work addresses fundamental questions in the field through innovative instrumentation development.
A new lunar meteorite, MIL 05035, has been discovered in Antarctica, providing a rare opportunity to study a part of the Moon's surface not visited by the US Apollo program. The meteorite exhibits unusual mineralogy and texture, offering clues about the Moon's formation and evolution.
Astronomers have used a pair of pulsars to show that general relativity is correct within 0.05% accuracy, the most stringent limit to date. The double-pulsar system provides independent tests of general relativity and its predictions, including gravitational waves and time dilation.
Robert Angelici receives ACS Award for Distinguished Service in the Advancement of Inorganic Chemistry, recognizing his significant service and outstanding research in inorganic chemistry. He has published over 370 papers and is known for pursuing unique research problems.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine, have found a natural way to control the spread of destructive Argentine ants by manipulating their chemical cues. The team created a synthetic version of a recognition compound that causes untreated nest mates to attack, disrupting cooperative behavior within colonies.
Research found that immigrant children from different racial/ethnic groups have varying levels of verbal development, with some experiencing a significant disadvantage compared to non-immigrant peers. Despite this, most immigrant children make individual progress in their verbal ability over time.
The Public Library of Science (PLoS) has launched PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, a new open access journal focused on the world's most neglected diseases. The journal aims to promote science, policy, and advocacy for diseases affecting poor countries, with a focus on rigorously peer-reviewed research.
Researchers found that most multi-racial adolescents change their reported racial category over time, with some identities, like Native-American, being more fluid. This challenges common assumptions about race and its stability, highlighting the need for nuanced measurements in social sciences and government analyses.
The new online learning tool illustrates the implications of dual-use biological research through case studies and historical background on bioterrorism. Biology students will learn to assess their research in terms of modern security concerns and recognize the risks of misusing scientific work.
Researchers have made breakthroughs in transforming adult stem cells into various tissue types, such as blood vessel cells, nerve-like cells, and muscle-like cells. These advancements hold promise for treating conditions like Parkinson's disease, diabetes, and spinal cord injuries.
Research from Oregon Health & Science University reveals that children born to overeating mothers are at risk for liver and pancreas damage, contributing to early-onset obesity and diabetes. Brain changes in the hypothalamus also occur, predisposing them to weight problems.
A study of over 17,000 heart attack patients found that only 45% regularly took beta blockers during the first year after discharge, highlighting the need for improved adherence strategies. Factors such as age and insurance status may influence medication adherence, suggesting a broader approach to addressing this issue.
Scientists have developed a method to predict whether melanoma of the eye will spread to the liver, where it quickly turns deadly. The molecular screening test can detect both whether a tumor is likely to spread and how fast.
Researchers found a correlation between tNOX levels and tumor burden in prostate cancer patients, suggesting its potential as a reliable biomarker. The study showed that tNOX levels increased with disease progression and were more uniform in terms of disease severity than PSA scores.
A recent study found that South Asian men experience more urinary problems than their white counterparts, including difficulties storing urine and urinating frequently. Despite this, they are less likely to seek medical attention or advice for these symptoms.
The Arctic Ocean's perennial sea ice shrank by 730,000 square kilometers between 2004 and 2005, replacing it with more vulnerable seasonal ice. The loss of perennial ice raises concerns about future ice retreat and its impacts on the environment and marine transportation.
PNNL researchers have developed a continuous monitoring system that quickly generates real-time data and analysis of high-level radioactive waste. The system can quantify levels of various anions and is adaptable to harsh environments.
A national study led by Queen's University Professor Daren Heyland found that only one-third of patients have discussed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with their physicians. Elderly patients are often ill-equipped to participate in such discussions and make decisions.
A new protocol using the protein tNOX has shown promise in detecting lung cancer early in smokers and nonsmokers. The test involves measuring levels of tNOX in the blood, with low false positive rates, making it a potential screening tool for early detection.
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that short duration of depressive symptoms in teens can make it difficult to distinguish between actual treatment efficacy and placebo effects. This design issue may lead to unnecessary long-term drug therapy for some children, as those who recover quickly from depr...
The National Institutes of Health has launched the first phase of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project to study genomic changes in lung, brain, and ovarian cancers. The TCGA pilot project aims to identify key genomic alterations associated with cancer development and progression.
Stevens professor Rustam Stolkin has published a paper in the Institute of Physics Publishing's journal, Measurement Science and Technology. He and his collaborators used a robot arm to film video sequences, which were then used to test and validate robotic vision algorithms.
A new technology can detect one malignant cell in a typical blood sample, enabling early adjustment of treatment to target spreading cancer. This diagnostic tool has a 97% specificity and may revolutionize the prevention of cancer death.
A new study found that raloxifene significantly reduces breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women, with a 58% reduction for those without a family history and an 89% reduction for those with a family history. The researchers are puzzled by why protection seems greatest in genetically predisposed women.
Researchers have developed a hybrid battery that combines the power of a capacitor with the storage capacity of a traditional battery. The device, made from plastic and polypyrrole, has twice the storage capacity of an electric double-layer capacitor and delivers over 100 times more power than a standard alkaline battery.
A new study by Mayo Clinic found that preventive ovary removal in younger women may lead to an increased risk of death from all causes, including estrogen-related cancers and diseases of the brain and cardiovascular system. The study suggests that hormone replacement therapy is crucial for these women.
Recent breakthroughs have enabled researchers to construct an atom-by-atom model of the ribosome, a complex molecular machine responsible for synthesizing proteins. The high-resolution images reveal detailed interactions between the ribosome, messenger RNA, and transfer RNAs, providing new insights into protein synthesis.
A new study reveals a significant decline in Arctic winter sea ice cover, with losses of six percent per year over the last two winters. This reduction is attributed to rising greenhouse gas emissions and warmer temperatures, posing a threat to marine ecosystems.
The MIT-developed molecular sieve can precisely control pore size, allowing for faster and more accurate separation of proteins from biological fluids. This technology has the potential to aid in disease detection and treatment by enabling scientists to study biomarker proteins with greater efficiency.
A new diagnostic test for tuberculosis (TB) has been developed using a novel technique called SELDI-ToF, which identifies specific proteins in the blood. The test achieved high accuracy in detecting TB, with up to 78% sensitivity and specificity.
A team of CSIRO scientists has determined the molecular structure of the insulin receptor, a significant breakthrough that builds on years of international research. The discovery is expected to facilitate future research into new therapies for diabetes and cancer.
Stanford engineer James Swartz has made significant advances in cell-free protein synthesis, including the production of nanoscale viral spheres that can act as delivery trucks for new vaccines. These engineered capsids have the potential to provide safer and more effective vaccinations by targeting specific immune-system cells.
Teachers from Alaska, Canada, France, Germany, Russia, Sweden, and England participate in a 33-day polar research expedition to collect data on atmospheric measurements, ice cores, and ocean systems. The expedition aims to better understand the impact of anomalous warm Atlantic water on Arctic Ocean temperatures.
A new biomarker predicting survival in colorectal carcinomas has been discovered, with thymidylate synthase levels in the nucleus and cytoplasm identified as critical markers. The ratio of nuclear to cytoplasmic TS levels also predicts decreased survival, revealing a new potential biomarker for patients with worse prognosis.
Redistributive policies by social democratic parties are associated with lower infant mortality rates and increased life expectancy. These findings suggest that reducing social inequalities through policy has a positive impact on public health.
A new international collaborative research project in China aims to develop robust scientific guidelines for safe levels of copper and nickel in soils. The project will combine data from European Union and Australian research programs with local Chinese data to explain toxicity across a wide range of environments.
Researchers from NASA and the Canadian Wildlife Service found that climate warming is negatively impacting polar bears due to shorter spring hunting seasons and reduced sea-ice cover. This can lead to a decline in female reproduction, reduced body weight, and increased human-bear conflicts.
A team of researchers from Arizona State University and Motorola Labs developed sensors based on single-walled carbon nanotubes that can detect heavy metal ions in water at parts per trillion levels. The devices use peptides to recognize specific compounds, allowing for selective detection of toxic chemicals.
Researchers discovered that viruses can infect cells more efficiently by attaching to different carbohydrates on the cell surface. This finding helps explain how flu and other viruses evade the immune system and may be useful for developing gene therapies for cancer and brain diseases.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a new polymer membrane for reverse osmosis that resists degradation by chlorine, allowing for efficient desalination. The membrane uses a similar structure to proton exchange membrane materials used in fuel cells, but with added salt treatment for improved chlorine resistance.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found a link between mild anemia and impaired thinking in elderly women. Those with anemia were four to five times more likely to perform poorly on executive function tests, compared to those with normal blood hemoglobin.
Researchers identified a gene mutation that regulates smooth muscle contraction and blood pressure in rats, leading to hypertension. The study may lead to improved treatments by targeting the proliferation of smooth muscle cells.
Researchers found that one-third of older adults struggle with bathing, highlighting the need for bathroom safety features and education. The study recommends installing shower curtains instead of glass doors and providing proper instruction on built-in safety features.
A study has identified molecular markers in RNA and DNA that can detect small metastases from ocular melanoma, allowing for early intervention. Fine needle biopsy is a feasible method to accurately detect these markers, enabling clinicians to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from targeted treatments.