Raphael Haftka and C.T. Sun will receive the AIAA-ASC James H. Starnes, Jr. Award for their pioneering work on optimization techniques for composite structures and mentoring of students. The award acknowledges their significant contributions to structural mechanics over an extended period.
Scientists have discovered that Salmonella uses a secretion system to protect itself inside amoeba, allowing it to survive and multiply. This finding has significant implications for controlling the spread of Salmonella in water supplied to animals.
A detailed malaria risk map published by the Wellcome Trust shows that three-quarters of the world's high-risk areas have low transmission rates, making malaria control more feasible. The map, developed using state-of-the-art technology, pinpoints malaria risk to an unprecedented resolution of 25km2.
The CellThera/WPI team will continue their joint efforts in regenerating mammalian muscle tissue under a one-year $570,000 DARPA contract. They aim to reprogram and engineer cells to replace damaged skeletal muscle and restore normal function.
Russell Mittermeier, a leading expert on biodiversity and ecosystem conservation, will deliver the Roger Tory Peterson Memorial Lecture at Harvard University. He has been recognized for his critical work on biodiversity hotspots and species conservation, offering hope for the future of conservation efforts.
Researchers found evidence of maize and squash domestication in the Xihuatoxtla Shelter in southwestern Mexico, dating back 9,000 years. The findings contradict previous assumptions that maize domestication occurred in highland areas.
Scientists have found that rising CO2 levels can stimulate plant productivity and increase marsh surface elevation, potentially increasing the capacity of coastal wetlands to tolerate relative rises in sea level. However, this effect may be short-lived as increased CO2 levels continue to accelerate global warming and sea-level rise.
A U of Minnesota study finds that fear and romantic desire can dramatically change how people make decisions, with fear leading to conformity and romance motivating uniqueness. This discovery has implications for marketing and advertising strategies.
Physicists at Michigan Technological University have calculated electron affinities for all 15 lanthanide elements, filling in long-standing gaps on the periodic table. The complex atomic structure of lanthanides made it challenging to calculate their electron affinities due to varying subshell configurations and complex variables.
Researchers report increasing promise for natural gas hydrates, frozen form of natural gas, as abundant source of clean, sustainable energy. Gas hydrates could supplement traditional energy sources linked to global warming, providing bridge to cleaner fuel sources like hydrogen and solar energy.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new material called graphene that can enable microchips to operate at much higher speeds than current silicon chips. The new technology uses a single transistor and produces a clean output signal, leading to faster computers and cellphones.
Spartin localizes to lipid droplets and binds to TIP47, regulating their turnover. Overexpressing or knocking down Spartin causes an increase in LD size and number.
Researchers found that socially isolated mice suffered more brain damage and higher inflammation levels after a stroke compared to paired mice. Social support was shown to reduce damaging inflammatory responses and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines in the brain.
A research and outreach system developed over 50 years has shown significant economic benefits in managing the soybean aphid, a destructive pest that stunts plant growth and transmits viruses. The integrated pest management approach is expected to generate an annual rate of return of 180 percent.
A CDC analysis reveals that a multifaceted MRSA prevention program employing positive deviance techniques triggered significant reductions in MRSA incidence, ranging from 26 to 62 percent. The hospitals also saw a decline in methicillin-resistant infections, demonstrating progress in the fight against drug-resistant superbugs.
Scientists warn that East Asians who drink heavily may be at increased risk of esophageal cancer due to an enzyme deficiency. Heavy drinking in these individuals can lead to a significant increase in the risk, particularly among those with two copies of the inactive gene variant.
Researchers at Caltech developed 15 new highly stable fungal enzyme catalysts that efficiently break down cellulose into sugars at high temperatures. This breakthrough is crucial for creating cost-efficient processes to extract sugars from cellulose, a key material in producing renewable fuels like ethanol or butanol.
Recent DNA duplications occurred 65 million years ago, coinciding with the last mass extinction event. Plants with duplicated genomes were better adapted to survive dramatic environmental changes.
Researchers at Rensselaer will investigate the role of specific genes and biological molecules in human stem cell function. They aim to understand how to control stem cell development using a range of new technologies.
A study of over 3,000 women found that physical abuse from intimate partners results in significantly higher healthcare costs, with a 42% increase in annual spending compared to non-abused women. Women who experienced ongoing physical abuse had the highest health care costs.
Researchers found that inhibiting an enzyme called 11-beta-HSD2 blocks COX-2 activity, preventing colorectal cancer growth and metastasis. Long-term inhibition did not cause side effects on the heart and blood vessels.
Research suggests that air pollution is a significant contributor to heart disease, particularly among the elderly, those with coronary artery disease, diabetics, women, and obese individuals. Exposure to particulate matter can increase blood pressure, activate enzymes that cause plaque rupture, and lead to a heart attack.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that high triglyceride levels are common in the US population, affecting 33.1% of participants. Lifestyle interventions, such as physical activity and weight management, are recommended as the primary treatment for hypertriglyceridemia.
Researchers have discovered a promising strategy to break down Pseudomonas biofilms, which form in cystic fibrosis patients and cause lung damage. A negatively charged molecule called aspartic acid polymer can disrupt the molecular bonds that hold together these difficult-to-treat infections.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that demethylation, the removal of chemical bonds from cancer-promoting genes, can trigger more than half of all cancers. Demethylating drugs used to treat some cancers may actually cause new cancers as a side effect, warns Dr. Joseph Califano.
A new surgical technique, lymphaticovenular bypass, shows promise in reducing lymphedema fluid by up to 39% in breast cancer patients. The minimally invasive procedure is a viable option for managing the condition, which affects up to 30% of women after surgery and radiation therapy.
Researchers at Caltech have discovered a tiny genetic mutation that prevents nicotine from binding to muscle cells' acetylcholine receptors. This subtle difference explains why nicotine is virtually powerless in muscle cells despite being highly addictive in the brain.
A systematic review of 16 studies found proteinuria to be a poor predictor of adverse outcomes. However, a slight association was observed with stillbirths at a proteinuria level of 5g in 24 hours.
A new study suggests that listening to pleasant music can improve visual awareness in stroke patients with impaired visual neglect. The study found that patients could identify coloured shapes and red lights more accurately while listening to their preferred music compared to silence or music they did not like.
The study provides a comprehensive map of global malaria endemicity, revealing areas where malaria control can be improved and areas where elimination may be possible. The map uses model-based geostatistics to incorporate data from local surveys, providing an important resource for policymakers and researchers.
Researchers found that Mycobacterium tuberculosis converts NO2 to NO using coenzyme F420, protecting itself from oxidative damage. This defense mechanism allows the bacteria to survive in the human immune system and stay dormant until the system is weakened.
Oral vitamin D supplements significantly reduce non-vertebral fractures by 14% and hip fractures by 9% in adults 65 or older. Higher doses of vitamin D (above 400 IU/day) show greater fracture reduction, especially among individuals with higher blood vitamin D levels.
A significant decline in US vitamin D levels has been reported, with serious consequences including increased cancer and heart disease risks. The study suggests that higher doses of vitamin D supplementation may be necessary to address this growing epidemic.
Researchers found that inhibiting the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) with licorice extract or by silencing its gene prevents colorectal cancer progression in mice. This approach produces effects specific to the colon and kidney, unlike existing preventive therapies.
A study found that children and siblings of individuals with venous thrombosis have a higher risk of developing the condition. Family history was associated with a more than two-fold increase in risk, even if no known genetic factors were present.
The DOE Office of Science will receive $1.2 billion in funding to support major construction, laboratory infrastructure, and research initiatives. This investment will create thousands of jobs and accelerate new technology development, while modernizing the nation's scientific infrastructure.
Ross Finman, a junior in electrical and computer engineering, has won the $10,000 National Space Club Award for pursuing studies in science or engineering. The award recognizes his hard work and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge through space research and exploration.
A study of over 500,000 individuals found that high red meat consumption was associated with a higher risk of death from all causes, cancer, and heart disease. In contrast, higher intake of white meat appeared to be linked to a slightly decreased risk for overall death and cancer death.
A distinct alpha-wave pattern occurs just before subjects make mistakes on attention-demanding tests, suggesting a potential method for monitoring attention and predicting errors. The discovery could lead to practical applications in air traffic control and new therapies for children with ADHD.
A study of 4,060 adult patients with diabetes found that on-demand scheduling did not improve outcomes compared to traditional scheduled visits. The study suggests that timely follow-up for chronic disease management may be compromised by on-demand scheduling.
UIC researchers are conducting a study to determine the health effects associated with recreational activities on Chicago's waterways. The CHEERS study will establish water quality standards for people who enjoy activities on the waterway and measure actual pathogens in the water that cause disease.
Researchers developed new 'paldoxins' that block fungal enzymes, boosting plants' natural defenses and overcoming fungal attacks. These environmentally friendly fungicides could protect crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans from disease-causing fungi.
A new approach to treating bone loss, which blocks Wnt signaling pathway inhibitors, may increase the risk of bone cancer. This method is associated with dysregulated Wnt signaling, linked to several cancers.
A new book by Louise Nelson Dyble uncovers corruption and lack of transparency in the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway District, a special district responsible for infrastructure spending. The district's history is seen as a case study of how bureaucratic power can lead to accountability issues.
A study of over 1,000 CAD patients found that high PLTP levels increased the risk of heart attack in statin users. Elevated PLTP levels may blunt statin benefits, according to researchers.
A study published in PNAS found that the genetic toolkit for fin and limb development is linked to gill skeleton formation in sharks. This discovery provides evidence for an evolutionary connection between fins, limbs, and gills., The research suggests that common developmental programs patterned different anatomical structures.
A new analysis of 22 years of research shows that teams tend to discuss information they already know, and that 'talkier' teams are less effective. However, teams perform better when sharing new information and engaging in tasks where they come up with a correct answer rather than a consensual solution.
A new technique using scanning tunneling and atomic force microscopes can identify complementary DNA base pairs by measuring the strength of hydrogen bonds. This method could lead to a new DNA sequencing technology that is faster and cheaper than current methods.
Researchers have developed a new yogurt that fights stomach ulcer bacteria with almost vaccine-like effects. The yogurt contains an antibody that reduces bacterial activity, offering a potential alternative to antibiotics for treating gastritis and stomach ulcers.
Increased schooling across sub-Saharan Africa may lower new HIV infections among younger adults, contradicting previous views of education as an AIDS risk factor. Formal education appears to reduce the risk of HIV infections by up to 34 percent in some countries.
A study from the American Chemical Society reports that proteins from garden peas show promise in fighting high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease. The researchers found a 20% drop in blood pressure in rats with polycystic kidney disease when fed small daily doses of pea protein hydrolysate.
Researchers have identified 10 genes linked to changes in QT interval duration, a key factor in sudden cardiac death. The discovery could help identify individuals at risk and aid pharmaceutical companies in developing safer drugs.
Researchers have developed hollow gold nanospheres that target and destroy melanoma cells using near-infrared light, showing eight times more damage to skin tumors than solid gold nanoparticles.
Researchers at UCSC developed hollow gold nanospheres with strong, narrow, and tunable light absorption. These particles can target tumors for photothermal cancer therapy, killing cancer cells with near-infrared light irradiation. The ability to tune optical properties makes them highly versatile for various applications.
Researchers have identified 10 common variants of genes that modify the timing of heart contraction, known as the QT interval. These genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, which claims over a quarter million Americans annually.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed a new compound that can detect and visualize immune cell activity, highlighting the misdeeds of the immune system. The compound, called luminol, glows blue when injected into mice with active immune inflammation.
A team of scientists has developed an automated carbohydrate synthesizer, allowing them to build complex carbohydrates in a few hours. This innovation could lead to the creation of new vaccines and treatments for diseases such as malaria and HIV.
A leading cause of plagiarism at the graduate school level is confusion about what constitutes plagiarism, according to an expert. Confusion can be rooted in undergraduate education and may lead to traps. Educators stress the importance of proper citation and context to avoid plagiarism.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory scientists have developed new materials that improve the power efficiency of blue OLEDs by at least 25 percent. These advancements aim to overcome major research challenges and provide a solution for large-scale applications in rooms and buildings.
Scientists have identified 10 genetic variants linked to an elevated risk of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). These variants influence heart repolarization and raise or lower the risk of cardiac arrhythmias, with a prolonged QT interval increasing the risk up to five-fold.