Research on teaching, learning, and how education works. Covers health-tech education, mentorship and fellowships, NIH training grants, and digital learning.
The NIH has awarded nine grants totaling $12.8 million to investigate the role of genetics in determining how medicines work in the human body and what side effects people may experience. These studies aim to develop more personalized medicine approaches through pharmacogenetics research.
A recent study by Dr. Andreas Constantinou suggests that soy protein mixes without isoflavones may be more effective in reducing mammary gland tumors in rats than previously thought. The study also found that the anti-tumor ingredient in soy works by increasing detoxification enzymes that eliminate free radicals.
The 96th Annual Meeting of the Association of American Geographers features presentations on various topics, including urban heat islands, research with blind pedestrians, and analysis of divorce trends. The meeting highlights innovative technologies to aid visually impaired individuals and explores population growth patterns in small ...
A new study from Toronto researchers has found a way to more accurately predict the cognitive recovery of severe head injury patients. By combining predictive methods with factors such as age and duration of unconsciousness, doctors can now make more informed decisions about patient discharge, reducing the risk of premature discharge.
Researchers are exploring alternative methods for delivering drugs, including handheld electronic inhalers, dry powder injection and implantable microchips. These innovative systems have the potential to deliver precise doses of medication in a faster and more efficient manner than traditional hypodermic needles.
Researchers are developing new compounds, including epothilones and bryostatins, derived from natural products to inhibit cancer growth. Vaccines targeting tumor-specific antigens are also being explored to prevent recurrence after conventional treatment.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded nearly $1.6 million in grants to support research experiences for Maryland high school students and science teachers. The awards include funding for student internships at the National Institutes of Health and teacher training and curriculum development.
Graduate student Alex Kandel's outstanding research on chlorine atoms interacting with methane and ethane was recognized by the American Chemical Society, with funding support from Mallinckrodt Baker Inc. for his discovery of a new laser technique called photoloc
George Samara, a chemist from Albuquerque, NM, has been honored by the American Chemical Society for his exceptional research management skills. He was awarded the Earle B. Barnes Award for Leadership in Chemical Research Management for his contributions to advancing solar cell technology and developing unique semiconducting materials.
Chaitan Khosla, a Palo Alto-based researcher, has developed ways to genetically engineer microorganisms to produce complex natural compounds. His approach allows researchers to create new pathways in biologically friendly organisms, making it possible to harvest useful substances from slow-growing bacteria.
Alex S. Kandel, a post-doctoral chemistry student at Pennsylvania State University, has been recognized for his outstanding research on fundamental molecular behavior and reactions. He discovered that making chlorine react with methane requires energy, while the reaction of chlorine and ethane releases energy.
George B. Kauffman, a renowned chemist from Fresno, has been honored with the American Chemical Society Award for Research at an Undergraduate Institution. He is recognized for his dedication to encouraging students to be imaginative and independent in their research projects.
Gabor A. Somorjai's research has revolutionized surface science and its applications, enabling the development of smaller, more complex devices. His work demonstrates that surfaces are flexible and adjust to the chemistry as it occurs, leading to breakthroughs in various fields.
Samuel Danishefsky has developed anti-cancer vaccines that stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. His research also explores laboratory versions of natural products with potential to combat cancer. Several vaccines are entering Phase II and III clinical trials to test their effectiveness.
Hoffman's groundbreaking work led to the discovery of primordial plutonium and seaborgium, with a focus on symmetrical mass division in spontaneous fission. Her ongoing research continues to advance our understanding of nuclear chemistry and its applications.
Chemist John D. Corbett is recognized for his pioneering work in inorganic chemistry, leading to the discovery of novel solid-state compounds with unique structures and properties. His research has enabled the development of products such as cell-phone batteries, catalytic converters, and corrosion-resistant alloys.
The TMJ Association has launched a national awareness campaign to raise awareness about jaw joint diseases, which affect over 10 million Americans, mostly women. The campaign aims to promote quality research and improved treatments for the condition, which causes debilitating pain and dysfunction.
A team of researchers has discovered that hazelnuts contain the potent anticancer agent paclitaxel, which could reduce the cost of the commercial drug Taxol. The finding may also stimulate competition among drug manufacturers, leading to cheaper prices for cancer patients.
Dr. F. Ann Walker, a researcher on the kissing bug, will present her award-winning research on heme proteins and Chagas' disease at the American Chemical Society meeting. The study highlights the intersection of entomology, inorganic biochemistry, medicine, and anthropology.
A study found that volunteers' community activities, such as bingo nights and promotions, significantly increased mammography use among rural residents. The approach also led to increases in mammography among uninsured women and those without female physicians.
Three Cedars-Sinai physicians are leading a fight against women's cancers through innovative research, clinical care, and genetic screenings. Beth Karlan focuses on curing and preventing ovarian cancer, while Maren Scheuner develops personalized prevention plans for breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancers.
Participation in breast cancer support groups can help women cope and function better when their spouses are not supportive. However, for those with adequate support at home, peer-discussion groups may worsen daily functioning. The study suggests that exposure to weekly discussions may re-evaluate relationships or spur conflict at home.
Researchers at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have demonstrated that computer crash simulation software can successfully predict the likelihood and severity of injuries to children from airbag activation. The study found that airbags pose a significant risk to restrained children, particularly in high-severity crashes.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study confirms that Thoroughbred horse racing is also a sport of serious injuries. Researchers found 6,545 injuries among 2,700 licensed jockeys over a four-year period, with most head injuries resulting from being thrown or struck by the horse's head.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that longer-term methadone maintenance therapy significantly surpasses short-term detoxification and psychosocial counseling. The study revealed higher treatment retention rates and lower heroin use rates among participants in the MMT group compared to those...
Researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Stellenbosch isolated six chemical compounds with antimicrobial activity in chewing sticks used in Namibia, demonstrating their effectiveness in removing plaque and massaging gums.
A survey of family physicians found that those with a prior history of depression or somatic complaints were less likely to consider the possibility of serious illnesses and order testing. Cognitive shortcuts can be helpful but also lead to false generalizations, highlighting the need for awareness among physicians.
A recent study of outpatients taking prescription drugs found that drug complications may be long lasting and have additional negative consequences, including patient dissatisfaction with care. The most common side effects were gastrointestinal ailments, sleep disruptions, mood changes, and tiredness.
A new study by the University of Toronto found that children who had a daily activity program in Grades 1 to 6 showed no advantages in aerobic fitness 20 years later. The study highlights the importance of developing lasting skills and attitudes in physical education programs.
Researchers developed Diffraction Enhanced Imaging (DEI), a new X-ray imaging method that produces significantly better pictures of breast tissue than conventional X-rays. The technology has shown superior tumor visibility in six out of seven specimens, and further work aims to make it clinically portable.
A Cornell psychologist has challenged the idea of universal music experiences across cultures by finding a Western bias in the explanation. Research suggests that expectations play a crucial role in our emotional response to music, and that this may be specific to Western musical backgrounds. The study's findings have implications for ...
A study by University of Chicago researchers found that doctors predict their terminally ill patients will live 5.3 times longer than they actually do, leading to unsatisfactory end-of-life care. The study suggests that some improvements may be made by having disinterested doctors provide predictive second opinions.
Dr. John Craig Venter and Professor Edward Wilson were awarded the Science prize for their work in biology, while Dr. Cynthia Kenyon won the Medicine prize for her research on aging. Their discoveries have led to significant advancements in understanding human genomes and developing hormone-based treatments.
A recent study found that heavy drinking during adolescence can cause significant damage to thinking abilities, particularly information recall. The researchers also discovered a link between withdrawal experiences and poorer neuropsychological functioning in adolescents.
Two studies found that nearly 40% of rural East Texas stroke patients arrived too late to receive tissue plasminogen activator (TPA), a treatment that can reverse stroke effects. The delay was often due to lack of knowledge about calling 911 or in-hospital delays.
A recent study found that nearly one-third of patients with suspected stroke symptoms were not properly diagnosed or treated by their primary care physicians. The researchers emphasize the need for urgent evaluation and prevention measures to reduce stroke risk, as these early symptoms can predict future events.
The National Research Council will assemble a committee of experts to consider how undergraduates can gain knowledge and skills needed for research careers in the rapidly changing biomedical sciences. The committee will produce a report with recommendations, along with case studies and a review of best practices.
A study using fMRI scans found that sleep-deprived subjects displayed increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, while verbal learning tasks activated the parietal lobes, which showed better memory performance. The brain's compensation for sleep deprivation varies depending on the cognitive task.
The American Liver Foundation will honor Dr. John M. Vierling for his significant advances in understanding autoimmune and alloimmune liver diseases, as well as Dr. Andrew J. Conrad for his impact on chronic viral infections diagnosis and management. The foundation's recognition dinner will take place on February 11.
A study found that Latino ESL students who took heart health and nutrition classes showed improved cholesterol, blood pressure, and nutrition knowledge. The researchers suggest that the ESL environment is an ideal way to reach this population and promote public health messages.
The series features Harbor Branch scientists presenting their latest research on topics such as the Indian River Lagoon, bioluminescence in deep-sea animals, coral reef ecosystems, and more. A portion of the funds raised will also support internships and scholarships for graduate students pursuing ocean sciences careers.
A new study reveals that backyard burning of household trash can release significant amounts of dioxins and furans into the air. Under controlled conditions, family-sized backyard burns can produce emissions comparable to those from a well-controlled municipal waste incinerator serving tens of thousands of households.
The medical school will recruit four researchers in structural biology, including Michael Weiss, to study molecular processes leading to disease. The HHMI grant aims to enhance the medical school's research enterprise and develop scientific breakthroughs.
The University of Michigan Medical School will receive a four-year, $4 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to support its new bioinformatics program. The program aims to educate tomorrow's scholars in this emerging scientific field and develop next-generation bioinformatics tools.
Researchers at Banyu Pharmaceutical Co. in Japan have designed a synthetic molecule that can block the molecular pathway of the opioid receptor-like 1 (ORL-1), leading to a better understanding of pain regulation. This breakthrough finding may pave the way for new and improved drugs to treat pain, as well as other neurological disorders.
A study published in Neurology found that high blood pressure is associated with a higher risk of severe cognitive decline, particularly in those with untreated or uncontrolled hypertension. The study suggests that controlling high blood pressure may help prevent or delay dementia.
Research finds that early socialization processes contribute to heightened vulnerability to depression among females. Women tend to focus on being liked by others, while males prioritize academic and athletic goals.
A new UCSF study reveals that gay men are more likely to smoke than the general male population, with 48% of participants in the research survey smoking compared to 27% of U.S. men. The study also found correlations between smoking and HIV status, heavy drinking, and frequenting gay bars.
Researchers at Yale Cancer Center identified two mechanisms to inhibit the Survivin gene's protective function, which can lead to cancer cell death. The study used molecular antagonists and showed promise in preclinical studies, paving the way for potential therapeutic applications.
University of North Carolina researchers will investigate sports head injuries across 90 East Coast high schools, using various assessments to determine athlete readiness for play. The goal is to improve concussion diagnosis and reduce re-injuries, allowing athletes to return safely to competition.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia successfully sequenced nearly 700 genes on chromosome 22, a major breakthrough in genetic medicine. The completed sequence provides the order of 33 million DNA bases, laying the groundwork for further research into genetic diseases associated with this chromosome.
A genetic defect in a protein receptor has been identified as the cause of Leydig cell adenoma, a rare testicular tumor that triggers early puberty in boys. The mutation leads to rapid growth and overproduction of testosterone without normal hormonal signals.
A study found that 11 female ballet dancers had osteoarthritis in their ankle joints, highlighting the risks of early onset ballet. Researchers suggest that girls should wait until they're older to start dancing on pointe and professional ballerinas should rest more between performances.
Dr. Kayser-Jones' groundbreaking research on dietary needs of nursing home residents has greatly influenced nursing care practices. Her work has had far-reaching effects on education, clinical practice, and health policy.
The Medical Event Reporting System for Transfusion Medicine aims to stop blood-transfusion errors before they happen. Researchers will analyze near misses to identify lessons that can prevent the next headline.
Behavioral and social factors contribute to nine out of ten leading causes of death in the US. A recent report by the Center for Advancing Health found that NIH spent only 9% of its research training funds on behavioral and social sciences, highlighting a need for increased funding and opportunities.
A recent study found that nearly half of South Bronx adolescents feel unsafe at home due to exposure to violence, including physical and emotional abuse. The young people reported taking proactive steps to mitigate the violence, such as resolving conflicts peacefully and seeking protection from friends.
Researchers developed an interactive 'robot therapist' to aid stroke patients, showing significant improvements in shoulder and arm movement. Long-term recovery was also greater for those assisted by the robot, enabling simple tasks like pushing objects across a table.
A new program, Seeding Postdoctoral Innovators in Research and Education (SPIRE), aims to improve career prospects for postdoctoral students by providing diverse training. The program will give postdocs teaching experience while offering cutting-edge biology courses at historically minority universities.
Researchers found striking variations in heart disease rates across the US, with states with high cigarette smoking rates and lower educational levels having higher mortality rates. Lifestyle factors are believed to contribute significantly to early death from heart disease, particularly in male baby boomers.