Researchers are uncovering key genes and their interactions in diseases such as Down's Syndrome, autism, and tuberculosis. The goal is to identify markers for disorders like autism that could be detected by blood tests, and develop new treatments like drugs targeting gene adaptation mechanisms.
A new study suggests that the brain's language centers may be identified using the genetic expression of certain brain receptors in vocal-learning birds and mammals. The research, led by neurobiologist Erich D. Jarvis, reveals a highly specialized pattern in the genetic expression of these receptors in songbirds capable of vocal learning.
Researchers explore how artists like Monet and da Vinci use light, color, and vision to create illusions of space and color. Neuroscientist Margaret Livingstone explains that luminance and flat-reflecting mediums influence visual perception, making objects appear differently in various situations.
Researchers are conducting studies on shrimp to better understand the genetic basis for proteins causing allergic responses. By altering the epitopes in shrimp allergens, binding action could be stopped, potentially leading to allergen-free foods.
The Tribal Environmental and Natural Resources Management (TENRM) program combines Western science with Native American perspectives, providing a unique educational approach. The program addresses the lack of Native Americans in STEM fields, offering flexible curriculum and support to students.
Researchers are using innovative new tools to study coastal ecosystems, including genetic mapping of marine populations and remote ocean sensing. These tools are helping scientists understand the dynamics of ocean environments and track the movement of marine species.
Fotini Markopoulo Kalamara presents a fresh approach to researching theoretical possibilities for looking inside black holes and at particles of space/time. She proposes that an 'inside' quantum theory of gravity should be the collection of all partial observations of the inside observers.
Journal editors emphasize protecting the integrity of scientific research through reproducibility and security measures. They advocate for self-governance in publishing potentially sensitive research to balance benefits with risks.
Researchers have developed a new all-optical-atomic clock that can keep time with greater precision than existing atomic clocks, by five orders of magnitude. The clock uses non-linear optical fibers to generate optical-frequency combs and determine frequencies by counting the number of teeth in the comb.
Researchers are using toxicogenomics to study the genetic and protein changes in individual breast cancer cells to assign effective drug treatments. This approach allows for more precise treatment options and earlier detection of toxicity, enabling doctors to make informed decisions.
The NIH is set to advance science and improve public health through a new initiative that focuses on multidisciplinary teams and cross-cutting initiatives. The plan aims to tackle pressing biomedical challenges by integrating multiple disciplines and addressing public concerns.
Researchers explore the concept of tribal warfare, revealing that revenge is a primary motive, often linked to deterrence, while social units strive for balance in losses and gains. The study of Waorani tribe in Ecuador suggests that a cultural understanding of revenge can be complex and nuanced.
A recent study found that neglect during infancy can have lasting effects on children's social and emotional development. Internationally adopted children who spent time in institutions exhibit difficulties with forming close bonds with parents and displaying wary behavior towards strangers.
Researchers discover new life forms living in extreme environments, such as gold mines and volcanic rocks, providing clues to the origins of life on Earth and potentially on Mars. These microorganisms may be using nuclear energy or toxic waste as fuel, shedding light on the diversity of possible fuel sources for life.
Researchers have identified genetically superior cultivars of native grasses that can outcompete invasive species like cheatgrass. These findings could inform the development of effective re-vegetation strategies for burned and degraded lands.
The Merck/AAAS Undergraduate Science Research Program awards fifteen grants annually to qualified institutions in the US and Puerto Rico. The program aims to enhance undergraduate education through research experiences that bridge chemistry and biology.
Studies have found that nerve cells in mature brains undergo metamorphoses and exhibit motility, reorganizing their structure to adapt to changing conditions. This discovery may have important implications for addressing diseases such as spinal injury by promoting recovery from synaptic abnormalities.
Researchers are working towards individualized treatments using DNA chip technology to analyze gene expression and detect host genetic polymorphisms. This approach aims to optimize drug selection and doses at a molecular level, reducing toxicity and improving patient outcomes for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
A decade-long analysis of 500 families with Alzheimer's Disease suggests a future of early prediction and prevention. The findings lead to a new vision of medical care, applicable not only to Alzheimer's but also to other genetic disorders.
Biological differences in taste sensitivity have been linked to various health risks, including colon cancer and cardiovascular disease. Supertasters are more likely to avoid vegetables due to their bitter taste, but this may lead to a higher risk of certain cancers.
Leading scientists in nanotechnology are discussing recent developments in microelectronics, including the creation of nanocomputers and millirobots. These tiny machines have the potential to control tiny devices and understand the mechanics of how to wire them up.
Scientists are exploring the potential of infrasound pulses to detect natural disasters such as tornadoes and volcanic eruptions. Infrasound pulses can also be used to monitor and forecast volcanic eruptions, potentially providing valuable warnings for communities at risk.
Coal fires consume up to 200 million tons of coal annually, releasing greenhouse gases, soot particles, and toxic elements. Innovative solutions like heat-resistant grout may help fight these fires and mitigate their impact on climate change and human health.
A new study reveals that the human brain can distinguish between thousands of chemicals using a 'fingerprint' pattern, while another discovery sheds light on pheromone-detecting neurons in mice that identify potential mates and social status. These findings may also aid in understanding animal communication and behavior.
The American health system faces multiple crises, including soaring premiums and personnel shortages. Bloom suggests using socially focused research, such as the Whitehall Study, to address these issues and promote better health outcomes.
Researchers describe groundbreaking cognitive therapy approach that helps people with schizophrenia identify and challenge negative thoughts, leading to significant symptom reductions. The therapy, combined with medication, offers hope for those who have not responded to traditional treatments.
Public Science Day will feature lunch, presentations, gallery science shows, health fairs, lightning demonstrations, dissections, dinosaur digs, scavenger hunts, telescopes, science kits, activity booths, touch carts, and journaling. The event promotes scientific exploration by children in local museums and institutions.
Researchers estimate that 90% of the population is gaining up to 50 extra calories a day, which can be addressed by taking an extra mile of walking each day. Closing the energy gap will also require a fundamental change in how people think about physical fitness.
Researchers have identified the KCNQ1 gene as the primary cause of familial atrial fibrillation, a condition affecting nearly one in 20 individuals over 65. The mutation leads to excessive potassium channel activity, disrupting normal heart rhythms and increasing the risk of heart failure.
The AAAS Top Ten Science Policy List for 2002 highlights concerns over new American security policies impacting scientific research. Human cloning, stem cell science, and sustainable development are among the top issues, with scientists facing a balancing act between global security and scientific progress.
Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about small RNAs controlling gene behavior, potentially leading to new research on cancer and stem cells. This advancement was named this year's top scientific achievement by the journal Science.
Domesticated dogs originated in East Asia before spreading across Asia, Europe, and into the New World around 12,000-14,000 years ago. Genetic analysis reveals that Eurasian wolves were the likely ancestors of modern dogs, with breeding over the last 500 years responsible for size and shape differences.
Researchers suggest that vaccinating 'first responders' and allowing people to be vaccinated if they choose could increase the effectiveness of vaccination efforts. Targeted vaccination was found to prevent more cases per dose of vaccine, especially when delayed until multiple cases had been detected.
The 2002 AAAS Science Journalism Award recipients were honored for their exemplary communications efforts on various topics including climate change, marine reserves, and reproductive technologies. The award recipients will each receive a $2,500 cash award and plaque during the 2003 AAAS Annual Meeting in Denver.
A new study published in the journal Science suggests that estren, a synthetic compound, can build bone and improve bone density and strength without affecting reproductive organs. The findings may indicate a potential alternative to standard hormone replacement therapy for treating osteoporosis in both men and women.
The AAAS-led Center aims to improve science curriculum materials by incorporating sound research and effective teaching strategies. The center will work closely with local school-district partners to develop a cadre of experts in science curriculum materials R&D.
Researchers discussed potential breakthroughs in understanding Alzheimer's disease, with one expert suggesting genetic testing could aid early diagnosis. Another speaker addressed the need for public education on vaccine risks and the challenges of bioterrorism preparedness.
The newly-sequenced Anopheles gambiae genome holds promise for developing new insecticides, transmission-blocking vaccines, and mosquito repellants. Researchers identified genes involved in the mosquito's ability to host the malaria parasite and located targets for new insecticides.
Researchers have identified a protein fragment in cereal grains that causes celiac sprue, an autoimmune disorder requiring strict gluten-free diets. A bacterial enzyme that breaks down this peptide may also offer relief to those with the condition, according to a study published in Science.
A new therapy boosts the immune system's targeted assault on tumors, shrinking melanoma in human patients. The approach involved suppressing the patients' immune systems to make room for new cells that attacked and killed tumor cells.
The top-ranked company, Genentech, is praised for its alignment of work culture and personal values, as well as its commitment to translating scientific discoveries into medicine. Millennium Pharmaceuticals ranks second, with a strong focus on attracting leading scientists and providing them with the tools to practice their science.
Researchers present findings on Antarctic lake temperature changes, krill distribution under ice, and potential impacts on marine ecosystems. Climate-related changes in krill populations could trigger major ecosystem collapses.
A gene found in some people of African descent may increase the chance of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), which can be lethal in rare cases. Precautions such as taking alternative diuretics and staying hydrated during exercise may help reduce risk, say researchers.
A recent study published in Science suggests that conserving wild nature can generate significant economic benefits, with intact ecosystems providing up to 75% more value than converted ones. The research estimates a global network of nature reserves could provide $4.4 trillion in additional economic benefits annually.
Researchers identified a significant link between a specific gene variant and increased risk of antisocial behavior in maltreated children. The study found that individuals with a certain variation of the MAOA gene were more likely to develop behavioral problems, comparable to major risk factors for heart disease.
Researchers have discovered how certain sugars on the surface of H. pylori bacteria help the immune system fight infection, but also make it worse. The findings provide new prospects for developing a vaccine against this virulent bug that causes ulcers and stomach cancer.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) recommends a single official to coordinate R&D across 26 agencies. This coordination is essential for advancing planned Department of Homeland Security initiatives and investigating terrorism.
A new study reveals a small-brained Homo erectus individual from Georgia, raising questions about the role of brain size in human migration. The discovery, part of a rich fossil collection, suggests that other factors may have contributed to the ancestors' exit from Africa.
Researchers have successfully used gene therapy to treat two young children with ADA-SCID, a rare form of SCID that requires regular injections of the bovine form of ADA enzyme. The new method involves removing bone marrow cells and engineering them to produce healthy immune cells, offering a potentially lower-risk alternative to bone ...
The AAAS CEO emphasizes the need for international scientific cooperation to address global challenges. The organization supports unfettered information exchange and travel freedom, highlighting the benefits of science-based diplomacy in bridging political divides.