The Kansas Wind for Schools program has selected several rural schools to receive Skystream 3.7 wind turbines as part of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's initiative. The small turbines will become part of the curriculum at these schools, teaching students about wind energy and its applications.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed a mathematical tool that computed the mechanical force exerted by the Z-ring when it helps bacteria cells split. The calculation revealed a surprisingly small force of 8 piconewtons, which could aid scientists in developing new antibiotics and understanding cell division.
A small study found that eptifibatide, an intravenous blood thinner, appears to be well-tolerated in sickle cell patients and shows potential benefits in reducing inflammation. The results suggest that the drug may have anti-inflammatory effects without causing harm to these patients.
A Northwestern University study found nearly 50% of patients taking antihypertensive drugs can't accurately name a single medication, highlighting the need for improved medication reconciliation. Patients with low health literacy were more likely to be prescribed multiple medications and have higher blood pressure.
Scientists have identified the toxin produced by Phragmites australis as 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid, which causes structural protein disintegration in neighboring plant roots, leading to their death. The exotic strain releases higher concentrations of the toxin than native strains, contributing to its invasive success.
Researchers detected androgen-synthesizing proteins in prostate cancer cells, which may explain why some cancers become resistant to therapies. This discovery offers new directions for research into future treatments that could block the development of androgens in cancer cells.
A new study by David Heckerman and colleagues developed a statistical framework to model HLA-dependent T cell response data. The approach identified 12 correct predictions out of 16, providing significant implications for understanding and developing an HIV vaccine.
The Science survey ranks top biopharma employers based on driving characteristics, with Boehringer Ingelheim leading the list. Genentech comes in second, followed by Amgen. The rankings are determined by an independent research firm commissioned by AAAS.
Researchers sequenced the genome of Chlamydomonas, a single-celled alga with traits from both animals and plants. The genome contains approximately 15,000 proteins and may have uses in basic bio-medical research, agricultural research, and understanding certain diseases.
A study on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a tiny green alga, has found that it shares genes with both plants and animals, including humans. The research provides new insights into photosynthesis, flagellar movement, and human diseases related to ciliary dysfunction.
The Regenstrief Institute will participate in a trial implementation of the Nationwide Health Information Network, testing secure health information exchange among providers, patients, and stakeholders. The project aims to improve quality of care, increase efficiencies, and prevent diseases.
New research on glutaric acidemia type I reveals that young mice are more susceptible to brain damage due to lysine uptake, which can be mitigated with a novel treatment strategy. Mast cells play a role in abdominal aortic aneurysm development, and blocking LAG-3 might enhance cancer vaccine effectiveness.
A recent study found that TPPII stimulates the formation of fat cells in worms and mammalian cells, leading to decreased fat stores. Mice with lower levels of TPPII were thinner than their wild-type littermates despite comparable food intake.
The study found that maternal mortality decreased by 68% in the ICDDR,B region and 54% in the government region over a 30-year period. Additionally, educational differentials played a significant role in reducing maternal mortality, with women having more than eight years of schooling being less likely to die.
The Chlamydomonas reinhardtii genome provides insights into photosynthesis, flagella function and human diseases such as dyskinesia and polycystic kidney disease. The research has the potential to advance bioenergy and environmental restoration by removing carbon from the atmosphere and toxins from soil.
A new modified plastic material, known as thermally rearranged (TR) plastic, has been developed to separate carbon dioxide from natural gas more effectively. The TR plastic works four times better than conventional membranes at separating out carbon dioxide through pores.
Researchers have discovered a new type of phase transition in vanadium metal under extreme pressure, which contradicts the behavior of most other elements. This unusual lattice dynamics is driven by a huge change in electronic structure, providing a new explanation for the record-high superconducting temperature.
Scientists at MIT have identified a critical blood protein called HRI that plays a pivotal role in the body's iron recycling process. This discovery holds promise for developing new treatments for conditions like beta-thalassemia and erythropoietic protoporphyria.
A new study from UC Berkeley found that people with low self-esteem respond more strongly to rejection themes, but those with better attention control skills can tone down their reactions. Researchers suggest training the mind to focus and behavioral therapy may help improve attention control and reduce negative effects of rejection.
Women who overcome breast cancer are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease due to therapies that damage the heart and blood vessels. Exercise is crucial in maintaining heart health during treatment, and early evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors can help prevent complications.
The Department of Energy has made significant progress in deploying key scientific facilities to capture world scientific leadership. The updated Facilities for the Future of Science: A 20-Year Outlook highlights the agency's commitment to advancing research in fields like fusion energy, advanced computing, and materials science.
A new plastic membrane with hourglass-shaped pores can separate carbon dioxide from methane at a faster rate than conventional membranes. This technology has potential to improve energy efficiency of water purification and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in natural gas processing.
Researchers analyzed over 18,000 genes from breast and colorectal tumors to identify genetic diversity between tumor types. The study highlights the need for individualized cancer treatment targeting specific mutant genes in each patient.
A new study by Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center researchers found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy improved spatial learning and memory in a model of chronic traumatic brain injury. The therapy increased vascular density in the brain and was associated with an improvement in cognitive function.
Researchers have reviewed literature on stress tests to determine the most effective strategies for physicians. The study highlights the importance of choosing the right stress test to accurately detect coronary artery disease, emphasizing the role of pharmacologic agents and exercise EKGs in maximizing sensitivity and specificity.
Brian Wansink's research on bottomless bowls of creamy tomato soup found that people eating from soup bowls with hidden refills ate 73% more soup than those in normal bowls, without feeling fuller. The study suggests that cues around us influence not only what we eat but also how much and when we feel full
Researchers find that bdelloid rotifers, an asexual organism, have evolved different gene functions to protect themselves during dehydration. This discovery provides insight into the benefits of asexuality and challenges the assumption that sexual reproduction is always necessary for survival.
American educators have partnered with Bangladeshi experts to develop U.S. geography standards on coping with natural disasters in the country. The project aims to increase cultural awareness and promote disaster resilience among students.
Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the mechanisms underlying injury and age-dependent susceptibility to glutaric acidemia type I. By using a mouse model of the disease, scientists discovered that limiting lysine uptake can substantially decrease brain damage caused by exposure to the amino acid.
A new study suggests that a lack of HIV prevention dollars for male sex workers in the Caribbean is fuelling the region's AIDS epidemic. The study found that bisexual behaviour among these men can significantly contribute to the spread of HIV.
The NIST device can accurately count 1, 2 or 3 photons at least 83 percent of the time, a capability essential for advanced precision optical metrology. The detector has an internal quantum efficiency of 68 ± 18 percent and potential to operate at higher temperatures than other single-photon detectors.
The Lancet study reveals that nearly a third of pregnancies in Europe end in abortion, while the rate in Africa is significantly lower. The study attributes the decline in abortion rates in Eastern Europe to increased use of modern contraception methods.
Astronomers have found persistent morning drizzle of methane over the western foothills of Titan's major continent, Xanadu. The discovery suggests that moisture-laden clouds pushed upslope by winds condense to form a coastal rain, with the drizzle dissipating after local mid-morning.
A study of 1014 women in Burkina Faso found that those with severe obstetric complications were at higher risk of death and mental health problems. The researchers also found that babies born to these women were more likely to die within a year, and that mothers with SOCs were more likely to experience depression or anxiety.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that increased levels of CUGBP1 contribute to myotonic dystrophy type 1 by altering splicing patterns in heart and skeletal muscle. The study also reveals the involvement of another RNA-binding protein, MBNL1, in regulating gene expression.
A NIST study found that residential fire sprinklers are a cost-effective solution for new homes, with estimated benefits ranging from $704 to $6,048 over a 30-year period. The analysis also showed significant reductions in civilian fatalities and property damage.
A rapid molecular typing strategy can identify adenovirus types in two days, aiding in the selection of antiviral treatment and controlling outbreaks. The strategy's speed will help public health officials better understand adenovirus epidemiology.
A team of astronomers at UC Berkeley reports a nearly global cloud cover and morning drizzle of methane over Titan's western foothills. The drizzle may be caused by processes similar to those on Earth, with moisture-laden clouds pushed upslope by winds condensing to form a coastal rain.
Global progress in maternal health is uneven and inequitable, with over half a million maternal deaths occurring annually. Despite this, successes in countries like Sri Lanka show that investment in education, employment, and maternal care can lead to significant improvements.
A tiny green alga has uncovered hundreds of genes associated with carbon dioxide capture and generation of biomass. The genome also sheds light on the capabilities of related algae that can produce biodiesel and biocrude as alternatives to fossil fuels.
A study of over 60,000 Danish men found that prostate cancer increases the risk of hip fractures by eight times in men aged 50-65. The researchers discovered that prostate cancer made men 1.8 times more likely to suffer a fracture and 3.7 times as likely to suffer from a hip fracture.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Chlamydomonas, a tiny green alga with approximately 15,000 genes. The study provides new insights into human diseases associated with cilia dysfunction, as well as photosynthesis and metabolic processes.
Researchers have discovered new small molecules that can prevent prostate cancer cells from turning off normal genes by blocking the action of a methyl-CpG binding protein. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of targeted therapies for prostate and other cancers.
Researchers have discovered that human embryonic stem cell nuclei are the most deformable, followed by hematopoietic stem cells, which generate blood and tissue cells. The study reveals that lamin proteins play a key role in stabilizing the nucleus and controlling gene expression.
A Northwestern University researcher developed a health advocacy program that uses digital photography and storytelling to empower minority teens to address health problems in their communities. The program resulted in two main themes: food and stress, which the teens used to create posters promoting healthier behaviors.
Researchers at MIT discovered a link between gene SIRT1 and cholesterol flushing pathway, which could lead to drugs lowering risk of diseases like atherosclerosis and Alzheimer's. Potential treatments based on polyphenols may be developed to enhance SIRT1 effects.
Researchers have found a link between decreased blood levels of ethanolamine plasmalogen and the severity of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting a potential treatment target. Additionally, apolipoprotein B has been identified as a better predictor of coronary heart disease risk in Chinese populations than traditional markers.
Researchers created a hybrid device combining force and fluorescence to detect subtle conformational changes in biomolecules at extremely low applied forces. By probing the dynamics of Holliday junctions, they mapped transition states and deduced the structure of transient species.
Engineered nanomaterials can still penetrate deep inside the body, posing a risk to human health. The science suggests that exposures will occur, and understanding toxicity is crucial for resolving concerns about potential harm.
Researchers at Jefferson University have discovered a tumor-blocking protein, pp32, that may be missing in aggressive forms of pancreatic cancer. The absent protein could eventually serve as a biomarker for the disease and a potential therapeutic target.
The Lancet study found that maternal mortality rates in sub-Saharan Africa are not decreasing fast enough to meet the MDG5 target, with a yearly rate of decline required to achieve the target being 5.5%. The authors conclude that a huge emphasis on improved pregnancy and delivery care is needed throughout the developing world.
Researchers mapped the human genome for breast and colon cancers, finding that most cancer-causing gene mutations are diverse and vary from person to person. The study suggests that personalized medicine may focus on complex pathways linking less-commonly mutated genes.
A University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine study found that professional welders who work in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation may be at risk for losing their sense of smell. The study, which used a standardized test to evaluate olfactory function, found that nearly 90% of welders had impaired smell function.
A team of researchers has demonstrated how a single gene in yeast divides and adapts to improve its environment, showcasing the driving force of natural selection. This study provides the most basic view of how organisms evolve to better adapt to their environments.
A study found a significant increase in low birth weights among NYC babies born after the Sept. 11 disaster, suggesting stress may have contributed. The researchers discovered another peak in low birth weights around Christmas/New Year and April/May, indicating possible long-term effects of stress on fetal health.
The report warns that inadequate pandemic planning, including poor on-the-ground administration and delivery of antivirals and vaccines, could threaten EU security. The survey found that few countries have defined plans for distribution of antivirals or specific guidance on vaccine storage and administration.
A new, rapid and cheap way of estimating the potential risk posed to human health by volcanic ash has been devised. The technique uses state-of-the-art laser technology to analyze the grain size of samples from around the world, allowing emergency response teams to quickly measure the potential risk without high-tech equipment.
A UT research team aims to develop cost-effective methods for analyzing and cleaning up contaminated sites with dense non-aqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs), which pose a major problem at many DOD facilities. The project could lead to significant cost savings, potentially running into the billions of dollars.
Research suggests that young women with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer who undergo adjuvant chemotherapy do not experience higher survival rates than those with ER-negative tumors. The study, published in Breast Cancer Research, found a 5% difference in survival rates between the two groups.
A study by David E. Bloom and David Canning found that most countries are clustered in high or low mortality groupings with little continuum of change between them. The authors suggest a 'big push' theory to help countries near the threshold break into the low-mortality cluster.