A new report highlights the need for better toxicity data and private-sector outreach strategies to manage nanowaste. The EPA must conduct outreach to the private sector about how RCRA and CERCLA apply to nanomaterials, while firms and investors must consider emerging liabilities and environmental risks.
Researchers at the University of Warwick developed a new method to create fire-resistant and hard-wearing latex emulsion paints by coating polymer particles with nanosized Laponite clay discs. This technique improves the paint's performance, enabling the creation of compact yet highly sensitive sensors.
Several health reform bills before Congress could lead to significant improvements in health care quality and efficiency. These bills focus on changing payment systems, which hold the greatest promise for health care savings and quality improvement. However, they do not address an overarching strategy or gaps in implementation.
A team of atmospheric chemists found high concentrations of halogens, including bromine and iodine oxides, which persist throughout the Antarctic winter. These chemicals cause substantial ozone depletion and form tiny particles that can impact local climate.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks has been awarded a $9 million EPSCoR grant to enhance its research capacity in studying the changing Arctic. The project will bring together diverse disciplines to provide a holistic understanding of northern ecological and social systems.
The G8's $1.5 billion vaccine donation will mostly go to pharmaceutical firm profits rather than costs. Experts advocate for a more sustainable approach to maximize lives saved and benefit poor children.
A team of researchers has discovered a new bacterium, Candidatus chloracidobacterium thermophilum, in the hot springs of Yellowstone National Park that can transform light into chemical energy. The discovery was made possible by metagenomics, a technique for studying organisms without culturing them.
A meta-analysis of 35 studies found that cannabis use is associated with a 41% increased risk of psychosis, with the most frequent users more than twice as likely to develop a psychotic outcome. The study suggests that governments should invest in education campaigns to warn young people about the risks of cannabis use.
Researchers have shed new light on how the Hepatitis C helicase plays its role in duplicating genes by tracking the gradual separation of nucleotide pairs. The study found that the helicase unwinds DNA in discrete jumps, requiring three ATP molecules for each reaction.
Researchers found that children with PTSD exhibit unique patterns of brain activation, particularly in the insula region. The study provides valuable insights into the biological underpinnings of PTSD and may lead to the development of more effective therapies.
Scientists have discovered that adding more fish oil to the diet can decrease the formation of prostanoids, which contribute to inflammation in various tissues. This finding may lead to the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs with fewer side effects than current options.
A large international study found that nurses are more than twice as likely to develop occupational asthma and cleaners face a 71% higher risk. Workplace conditions may be responsible for up to 25% of new asthma cases in industrialized countries.
Researchers have identified a new target for HIV/AIDS drugs and vaccines, focusing on the Nef viral protein's impact on the innate immune system. The study suggests that blocking this protein's activity could lead to the development of new treatments.
Researchers have developed a genetically modified mouse model using the ferritin reporter gene, enabling live cell imaging via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without additional substances. This breakthrough overcomes limitations in detecting signal changes in tissues, such as fetal development and the central nervous system.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science observe oscillating interference pattern between two identical quantum particles, proving quantum theory's predictions. The particles' actions are inextricably tied due to entanglement, even when separated by distance.
Scientists found that isoprene emission from plants protects against heat stress and improves photosynthesis efficiency. The study used genetic engineering techniques to reduce isoprene emission in transgenic Grey poplar trees, which showed increased tolerance to heat shock.
A new internet-based training course is being developed to provide critical information for radiological sciences professionals. The eight-hour course, led by top radiation biologists, will cover the health consequences of a radiological or nuclear event and medical management of an exposure.
Researchers challenge long-held assumption that new protein synthesis is necessary for recording memories in long-term storage. Brain chemistry changes caused by protein synthesis inhibitors can disrupt memory formation instead.
Researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a gene, FOXP3, that suppresses tumor growth in breast cancer. The study found that when FOXP3 is normal, it keeps HER-2 levels low; however, when FOXP3 is missing or mutated, HER-2 levels are likely to rise.
A study published in JCI found that bacteria residing in the gut boost immune response to tumors after total body irradiation, a common treatment for cancer. The researchers discovered that a specific population of bacteria plays a crucial role in augmenting the function of tumor-specific T cells and resulting in tumor regression.
Scientists have gained new insights into killer electrons, which can damage satellites and pose a hazard to astronauts. The unique data collected during a geomagnetic storm revealed the mechanism behind their creation, with solar wind particles inducing undulations in Earth's magnetosphere.
A University of Michigan study has identified the Sox17 gene, which regulates blood-forming fetal stem cells. The discovery may lead to new insights into childhood leukemias and the development of bone marrow transplantation from human embryonic stem cells.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati will use functional MRI and MRS to study brain chemistry in response to different treatments. The goal is to better understand the disease, identify early warning signs, and personalize treatment plans.
A new study found that babies who died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) had a distinctive difference in their newborn hearing test results, specifically a four-point lower score in the right ear. This discovery opens up new avenues for research and may allow for early identification of infants at risk for SIDS.
Researchers found that high school math preparation significantly improves college performance in biology, chemistry, and physics. However, no correlation was seen between scientific disciplines, challenging the 'Physics First' movement's arguments.
A new study by University at Buffalo's Research Institute on Addictions found a strong correlation between malt liquor consumption and marijuana use. Young adults who drink malt liquor are more likely to develop alcohol problems and use illicit drugs.
A University of Illinois study found that teenagers can become insightful about their emotional patterns and learn to intervene in their emotional episodes. In a high-school musical theater production, teens developed rich emotional growth by learning to identify and control their emotions, as well as use them positively.
Researchers have found that ethylene regulates cell division in root stem cells, allowing plants to detect favorable soil conditions. This breakthrough has significant implications for tackling soil compaction issues in tropical agriculture.
Studies have shown that children born through assisted reproduction techniques face higher risks of complications during and after pregnancy, including increased rates of pre-eclampsia, stillbirths, low birthweight, and major malformations.
Researchers found that microRNA levels are crucial for maintaining homeostasis during blood cell development, but not the 'slicer' activity of Ago2 protein. The study suggests that low levels of microRNA have distinct effects on different blood cell lineages.
A nutritional supplement called Sprinkles has been shown to reduce anemia in poor children by more than half, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition. Children aged 6-24 months are most vulnerable to iron-deficiency anemia.
Scientists at the Weizmann Institute of Science have successfully implemented doping in molecular electronics, enabling the control of electronic properties in organic molecules. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of environmentally friendly and versatile electronic components.
The FDA Nanotechnology Task Force has outlined a comprehensive plan to address regulatory challenges posed by nanotechnology, recognizing the need for new safety assessment tools and greater expertise. The report calls for increased public participation and transparency in developing regulatory policies.
A clinical trial by NIAID suggests that early antiretroviral therapy for HIV-infected infants can significantly improve survival rates. The study found that children treated before three months of age had a better prognosis than those whose treatment was delayed, leading to a potential change in standard care worldwide.
Researchers have discovered that combining two blood pressure-lowering drugs with enzyme replacement therapy can slow the progression of kidney disease in patients with severe Fabry disease. The study found significant reductions in proteinuria and minimal decline in kidney function after an average of two and a half years' treatment.
The study found that consultants act as knowledge brokers, managing projects and collaborating with clients. They earn respect through intelligence, commitment, and engaging with employees' problems.
The Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project, a long-term research effort in the Amazon, is imperiled by SUFRAMA's colonization plan. The project, which has hosted hundreds of scientists, may lose its research sites and critical conservation areas.
Researchers found that HIV fusion peptide dramatically decreases energy needed to bend a cell membrane, making it easier for the virus to infect immune cells. This discovery will aid in future computer simulations and drug discovery efforts.
Research reveals air pollution particles can trigger inflammation in blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Exposure to particulate matter increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
A new study published in Nature finds that increasing surface ozone near the Earth's surface can lead to significant reductions in regional plant production and crop yields. This could undermine the ability of plants and soil to slow down global warming, as they currently store about a quarter of human carbon dioxide emissions.
Researchers at Saint Louis University have discovered a way to deliver medicine to the brain for treating Sly Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. The breakthrough uses epinephrine to induce the enzyme beta-glucuronidase, which is missing in patients with Sly Syndrome.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered a mechanism where the gene-transcription machinery can be paused by the ubiquitin molecule until a triggering signal is received. This pause allows for quick activation of genes in response to stress or vital needs, such as stem-cell differentiation.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center developed a fast and accurate test to measure thyroid hormones, which may help diagnose and treat conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. The new test uses tandem mass spectrometry and is more specific than the current immunoassay test.
The FDA's Nanotechnology Task Force report highlights the challenges of regulating nanotechnology across various product categories. With over 500 manufacturer-identified nanotechnology consumer products being sold annually, the agency must ensure the safety of novel products before they enter the market.
Researchers discovered the GRPR gene, which codes for a receptor involved in transmitting itch signals from the skin to the brain. Laboratory mice lacking this gene scratched less when exposed to itchy stimuli, suggesting a potential target for anti-itch medication.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified hundreds of DNA elements that control when and where genes linked to blindness are turned on. These new elements can be used as switches to activate blindness therapies, offering hope for a potential cure for inherited blindness.
Testicular cancer patients with metastatic disease can be cured with high-dose chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, as shown in an Indiana University School of Medicine report. The treatment, which involves carboplatin chemotherapy at five times the standard dosage, has a success rate of over 90%.
University of Florida researchers are creating a brain chip to decode signals and stimulate neurons, aiming to treat conditions like paralysis and epilepsy. The technology has the potential to revolutionize medicine, allowing patients to control prosthetic devices with their thoughts.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed graphene oxide paper with superior mechanical properties, potential applications in energy storage, and the ability to be chemically tunable. The material's unique combination of electrical insulation and controlled permeability makes it suitable for various industries.
Researchers found that brain structure Heschl's Gyrus predicts successful second language learning. Adults with smaller left HG gray matter need not despair of learning another language, as training strategies can improve outcomes.
A new study by PECARN reveals that steroid treatment does not prevent hospitalization or improve symptoms in infants with bronchiolitis, the most common cause of infant hospitalization. The study's findings provide solid evidence for treating bronchiolitis with simple supportive care.
Biologics may be a valuable treatment option for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), offering new hope for patients. However, gastroenterologists must carefully weigh the potential benefits against significant side effects and costs. Research is ongoing to better understand the role of biologics in IBD treatment.
Researchers propose new model for predicting post-hospital death risk in aortic dissection patients based on blood clotting in the false lumen. Partial clotting is associated with a much greater risk of death, while those with patent or completely thrombosed false lumens have intermediate and lower risks respectively.
A new NIH-supported study shows that obesity spreads within social networks, with closer connections increasing the influence on developing obesity. The study analyzed data from the Framingham Heart Study, finding that a person's chance of becoming obese increased by 57% if they had a close friend who became obese.
The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation has awarded a three-year grant to the American Gastroenterological Association to support research fellowships for high school students interested in gastroenterology. The program will provide $2,500 each to five students to fund a 10-week research session under the supervision of an approved preceptor.
Large Humboldt squid have invaded the sea off Central California, where they are feeding on commercially important fishery species like hake and anchovy. This shift may be linked to a decrease in large tuna and billfish populations in the Equatorial Pacific, allowing the squid to expand their range.
A recent study by OHSU and VAMC researchers found that female mice are more susceptible to brain cell death after alcohol withdrawal than male mice. The study suggests that women may be more vulnerable to the neurotoxic consequences of alcohol consumption, which could contribute to debilitating cognitive dysfunction and motor deficits ...
A new study challenges existing explanations for horror movie enthusiasts, suggesting they enjoy the thrill of fear. Researchers found that viewers experience both negative and positive emotions simultaneously, including happiness in frightening moments.
Researchers used powerful imaging techniques to study the atomic level interactions between bacteria and antibiotics, revealing a key enzyme structure that enables gene expression. The findings provide insights into potential new antibiotic designs that can prevent bacterial resistance.
A study led by Duke University researchers found that a white blood cell booster can significantly reduce the risk of chemotherapy-related complications characterized by fever and low white blood cell levels. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, involved over 3,000 patients and showed that patients taking the drug ...