Researchers discuss the potential of nanotechnology in improving food nutrition and safety. Dutch scientist Frans Kampers presents his work on creating nanostructures in food to deliver nutrients efficiently. However, concerns about nanoparticles' migration into human cells and potential health risks are also raised.
Renowned biologist Ursula Goodenough explores the connection between science, ethics, and a culture of sustainability. Her work proposes an 'ecomorality,' prioritizing stewardship of the environment, in response to humanity's impact on the planet.
Scientists should think locally to better understand science and communicate with the public. A metropolitan science council model is needed to create dialogue within the scientific community about science policy.
Scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have developed radioimmunotherapy to target and destroy HIV-infected cells. The treatment, which uses antibodies attached to radioactive payloads, shows promise in laboratory and animal studies, and is currently being tested in pre-clinical trials.
Research found capecitabine and irinotecan with bevacizumab to have comparable tumor response rates of 29% and 35%, similar overall survival at 15 months and 24 months. Toxicity was generally well-tolerated in a small patient population.
Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, have found evidence that mobile repetitive elements, or 'jumping genes,' significantly impact the evolution of gene regulatory networks. At least five percent of the human genome has been under negative selection during most of mammalian evolution, indicating functional importance.
A study analyzed histologic features of liver biopsies from 86 infants with intrahepatic neonatal cholestasis (IHNC) and found no significant differences among different etiologies. However, a significant difference was observed in IHNC of infectious etiology, presenting with more severe erythropoiesis.
A panel of scientists at Michigan State University discussed using the World Wide Web as a tool for research, with topics including survey research, measuring social networks, and creating virtual worlds. Researchers are leveraging the Internet to inform social science applications in the real world.
Researchers analyzed nearly 60 terabytes of data from EverQuest II, a fantasy massive multiplayer online role-playing game, to study social network configurations. They found that players tend to stick close to home, forming groups with people they already know, and women are often the most dedicated and satisfied players.
The IPCC Fifth Assessment will incorporate new studies predicting more severe changes than previous assessments. Tropical forests could become carbon sources due to wildfires and warming temperatures.
A study using African Americans with West African and European ancestry found a strong statistical correlation between genetic admixture and facial traits. The researchers measured distances between specific face landmarks to compare genetically determined admixture with facial feature differences.
Climate change is altering malaria patterns due to daily temperature fluctuations, which can affect the incubation period of malaria parasites in mosquitoes. This can lead to changes in transmission rates, with warmer temperatures potentially increasing the risk of infection.
Researchers are exploring petascale computing to model complex systems like severe storms, enabling better prediction and potentially saving lives. The technology will also facilitate the analysis of large datasets in fields such as high-energy physics.
A six-year vitamin E supplementation study found that high dietary vitamin C intake significantly influenced the effect of vitamin E on mortality in male smokers. Vitamin E decreased mortality by 41% in elderly smokers with high vitamin C intake, while increasing mortality by 19% in middle-aged smokers with similar intake levels.
Scientists develop novel materials for stem cell therapy by combining peptide amphiphiles with hyaluronic acid, resulting in self-assembling sacs that can encapsulate human stem cells and deliver growth factors. The structures also exhibit unique physical properties and can be tailored to release cells at specific injury sites.
Recent studies suggest that global warming could accelerate at a faster pace, leading to more environmental damage and releasing billions of tons of greenhouse gas. IPCC scientist Chris Field warns of the potential for catastrophic consequences, including devastating wildfires in tropical forests and permafrost thawing.
A new study by Holly Gibbs at Stanford's Woods Institute for the Environment suggests that biofuel crops may contribute to climate change by burning tropical forests. The research found that agricultural subsidies and policies favoring biofuel crop production can lead to deforestation, releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere.
The US has a century-long history of dependence on oil, which remade human life's ecology. A shift to alternative energy sources may require reevaluating petroleum use and government involvement in the transition.
Scientists will discuss new techniques to understand planetary formation, habitability, and potential for life. Experts will share insights on the probability of finding Earth-like planets within a few dozen light years of the sun.
The Iowa students' innovative device can sanitize water for a mere $5, making it an accessible solution for developing countries. The project has already received a US EPA first-place award and plans to expand its reach globally.
Paul Davies, a renowned cosmologist, questions the conventional notion that there's only one form of life on Earth. He suggests that life might exist in unexpected places, such as extreme environments, and could be undetected due to our limited detection methods.
Researchers found that nanoparticle size doesn't affect biological responses for most genes, as measured by total surface area. The study suggests a better understanding of nanoscale effects on cells and tissues.
Scientists develop a simple model for complex cell structure by creating artificial cells with molecular crowding and heterogeneity. The system mimics the behavior of proteins and nucleic acids in living cells, allowing researchers to study the effects of macromolecular crowding on chemical reactions.
Researchers have found hundreds of new planets beyond our solar system, with evidence for all three classes of planets detected in extra-solar systems. Carnegie Institution scientists predict that many planets will be habitable, potentially inhabited by life.
Marvin Meistrich's research focuses on the molecular details of normal sperm development and the connection between cancer therapies and sterility. He aims to find ways to restore fertility in thousands of young men and boys who receive treatment that might leave them sterile.
Research reveals swimmers using public ocean beaches increase their risk for staph organism exposure and potential infections. Taking precautions like showering before entry can reduce the risk of infection.
Researchers explore social behavior in various animal species, including birds and gerbils, to understand how they use social cues for mating, diet, and survival. These findings demonstrate that animals have evolved complex social behaviors, challenging the idea of human exceptionalism.
Researchers at Diamond Light Source have developed a new technique using X-ray eyes to map metal distribution in brain tissue, which could lead to early diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson's disease. By studying the distribution of metal ions in affected regions, scientists hope to improve MRI detection and diagnosis.
A survey in a Yorkshire village found that people are less aware of past changes in local bird populations, indicating 'generational amnesia.' The study's results suggest that wildlife knowledge is not being passed on from older to younger people.
Rafe Sagarin, a Duke University ecologist, advocates for a Darwinian approach to homeland defense, emphasizing adaptability and responsiveness over rigid security measures. By learning to live with threats rather than eliminating them entirely, organisms can better handle unforeseen risks in an escalating arms race.
Researchers at the University of Chicago found that ground squirrels can reconnect with their siblings' smells after prolonged hibernation. This ability is crucial for survival and social bonding in these animals.
Incorporating native, perennial plants into biofuels production can significantly reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and improve water quality. The research aims to make biofuels economically and environmentally sustainable, with potential applications in other regions.
Researchers highlight successes in managing fish stocks and protecting Pacific coral reefs from climate change impacts. These efforts may offer a temporary reprieve, but prioritizing biodiversity protection is crucial.
Four NASA Goddard scientists, John Connerney, Thomas Moore, Richard Ray, and Compton Tucker, have been named AGU Fellows for their outstanding work in the field. They were recognized for their research contributions to planetary science, geophysics, and space plasmas.
A new study suggests that consuming large amounts of acrylamide from potato chips daily may increase the risk of heart disease. Limiting potato chip intake and choosing a balanced diet can help reduce exposure to acrylamide.
Researchers have designed intelligent molecules that can recognize diseased cells, such as cancer cells, and trigger cell death only in their presence. This approach aims to reduce nonspecific side effects and improve therapeutic accuracy.
According to UCLA behavioral ecologist Daniel T. Blumstein, biology and evolution offer valuable lessons on managing security threats. By studying species' risk management strategies, we can learn how to allocate energy to defense versus other things, and how not to overreact.
Studies of virtual world Second Life reveal that teenagers form online friendships with people in their immediate geographic area, and tend to be friends with the friends of their friends rather than strangers. This challenges common assumptions about social networks and highlights how technology can reinforce existing relationships.
A new study reveals that molecular motors in cells operate in a highly coordinated manner to move internal cargo and transport organelles. The findings provide insight into the mechanisms that instruct motor movement, potentially leading to therapies for neurodegenerative disorders such as ALS and Usher syndrome.
Taxonomist Barbara Taylor highlights the need to consider uncertainty in taxonomy for threatened and endangered species. She proposes incorporating uncertainty into decision-making processes using risk assessment models, which can aid precautionary conservation measures.
Researchers at UT Houston are launching a Phase I study to treat acute stroke victims with their own stem cells, harvested from bone marrow. The goal is to assess the safety and potential benefits of this treatment in reducing disability.
A study of umbilical cord blood found evidence of a biomarker associated with prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, potentially leading to pollution-related asthma. Researchers discovered epigenetic alterations in the ACSL3 gene linked to maternal PAH exposure.
A recent survey found that six in ten Americans have taken precautions to reduce their risk of getting sick from contaminated peanut products. Many are mistakenly believing major national brands of peanut butter are involved, while others are unaware of the range of products affected.
The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) honors 2009 fellows with fellow status for their leadership in gerontological/geriatric education. Additionally, AGHE awards various recognitions to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of gerontology.
Research reveals that elephants rely on bone conduction to detect seismic signals in estrus calls, allowing them to triangulate the source with greater accuracy. This method is more effective than somatosensory reception, which involves vibration-sensitive cells in the foot.
Researchers found no increased risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome after HPV vaccination, but cases still warrant careful monitoring. The study analyzed data from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System and reported 36 cases within six weeks of vaccination.
Researchers at San Francisco State University are using non-invasive techniques to study hormones in wild mammals, revealing surprising results about behavior, social systems, and hormone function. These findings challenge previous research models and suggest species-specific adaptations for reproduction and survival.
A new study published in Nature reveals significant genetic differences between individual yeast organisms, with variations of up to 4% compared to 1% between humans and chimpanzees. The findings suggest that human activities, such as wine and beer production, have influenced the evolution of yeast strains.
Human mothers with social support can conserve energy, allowing their bodies to prepare for the next pregnancy. In contrast, nonhuman primates lack this flexibility and have relatively low reproductive rates due to similar energy demands during lactation. Social support plays a crucial role in human reproductive success.
Stephen Schneider, a climate researcher, emphasizes the need for accurate and comprehensive reporting on global warming. He stresses that developed nations must take control of their greenhouse gas emissions to make the problem solvable in developing countries.
Studies find that access to nature reduces aggression, crime rates, and improves cognitive function in children with ADHD. Living near trees also positively influences mood, life satisfaction, and social interactions, particularly among elderly adults.
A new study redefines the boundaries of viruses, highlighting their complex relationships with hosts. The genes that encode beneficial viruses in wasps are integrated into the wasp's chromosomes, blurring the line between host and virus.
Researchers at Michigan State University are using high-throughput genetic screening to identify genes affecting chloroplast structure and function, which could lead to plants bred for biofuel or high-nutrient content. This advanced technology gives scientists a broader perspective on plant metabolism than traditional methods.
Researchers found that unrelated cord blood transplantation from a mismatched donor is effective in treating children with life-threatening diseases. The study showed low incidence of complications and improved access to transplant for patients with ethnic and racial minorities.
The American Geological Institute (AGI) has released a comprehensive report on the status of the geoscience workforce, focusing on education trends from K-12 through community college. The report highlights access to earth science education, course requirements, and trends in college-bound students.
The AAAS Symposium explores emerging threats to terrestrial and marine ecosystems, including habitat loss, climate change, and overfishing. Researchers will discuss research challenges and synthesis of current and emerging threats.
Researchers found that tree-dwelling lizards have a unique escape mechanism: dropping their tails to distract predators. Without their tails, the lizards tumble backwards uncontrollably, suggesting a significant ecological cost for this life-saving adaptation.
In a study, researchers found that even slight differences between competing species can lead to the weakest being victorious in cyclical competitions. This phenomenon, known as the law of the weakest, was simulated using computer models and has implications for understanding evolution and ecosystem development.
Researchers have identified a new biomarker for fatal prostate cancer, which is high levels of ionized serum calcium. Men with the highest levels of ionized serum calcium are three times more likely to die of prostate cancer than those with lower levels.
Research shows that putting a price on carbon dioxide emitted by different land use practices can significantly change how land is used. The study found that addressing the land-based carbon is essential for stabilizing greenhouse gases at low levels.