Articles tagged with Basic Research
A team of researchers discovered that a common fly's motion-sensitive neurons emit spikes very often and precisely, revealing a more complex language than previously thought. This new understanding challenges traditional assumptions about neural networks and could lead to the development of more efficient artificial intelligence.
A team of scientists at the University of Essex has discovered a new mechanism that regulates carbon dioxide fixation in plants by slowing down sugar production when energy from sunlight is limited. This discovery increases our understanding of this process and may lead to the development of 'fourth generation' biofuels.
Researchers found that cohesin acts as a regulator of gene expression, playing an essential role in reading genes independently of its previously known function. The molecule is also necessary for the function of insulators, which separate regions influenced by regulators.
The Stowers Institute's Proteomics Center has developed a novel method for assigning probabilities to human protein interactions, allowing for the creation of more informative protein interaction networks. This approach enables researchers to estimate the preference of two proteins to associate within a defined complex or larger networ...
Kenneth E. Bernstein identified key components of blood pressure control and was awarded the American Heart Association's Basic Research Prize for his work. His discoveries have led to a major approach in treating hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and diabetic nephropathy.
John P. Donoghue, a Brown University brain scientist, has been awarded the K.J. Zülch Prize for his groundbreaking research on translating thoughts into action, enabling people with paralysis to control devices using brain signals.
A new study identifies adiponectin as a long-term regulator of energy homeostasis, boosting appetite and slowing energy expenditure in the brain during periods of starvation. Adiponctein helps preserve adequate fat reserves by acting as a starvation signal.
A Scripps Research study found that chronic methamphetamine abuse can lead to vascular inflammation and deterioration, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study also discovered that long-term methamphetamine users have aberrant immune responses, producing proinflammatory cytokines.
The Department of Energy and Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns have jointly selected 11 projects for awards totaling $8.3 million to accelerate the development of alternative fuel resources, including cordgrass, rice, and switchgrass.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have discovered that environmental changes can trigger dormant capacities in cells, allowing them to suddenly change their behavior. This phenomenon is made possible by the dynamic nature of nucleosomes and their ability to carry chemical modifications that control DNA expression.
A study suggests that people who decline to participate in research may not necessarily object to taking part, but rather due to confusion about the research nature and process. This finding highlights the importance of clarifying potential sources of confusion in participation requests.
Researchers at the Ames Laboratory have discovered a new family of zinc compounds that can be tuned to exhibit physical properties similar to other materials. These compounds, which are over 85% zinc, display extraordinary tunability, allowing scientists to study magnetism and potentially create superconducting materials.
Dr. Simmer's laboratory made significant observations on the alternative splicing of amelogenin RNA transcripts, leading to improvements in understanding genetic etiologies of inherited enamel defects like amelogenesis imperfecta. His work also focused on tooth dentin and the isolation of dentin sialophosphoprotein-derived proteins.
Dr. Darveau's research has provided major paradigm shifts in understanding host responses to periodontal bacteria, including P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide's ability to down-regulate inflammatory responses.
The Pourquié Lab has clarified the mode of formation of spinal precursors in vertebrates. The study reveals that both a cellular and a tissue-based mode of paraxial mesoderm formation occur across different vertebrate groups, providing fundamental insights into spine precursor development.
Senator Alexander was awarded the SURA Distinguished Friend of Science Award for his efforts to promote basic scientific research and improve math and science education. The award recognizes his commitment to advancing the nation's competitive edge in science and technology.
Blacksburg chemist James McGrath warns that focusing solely on functional polymers stifles basic research, which is crucial for discovery and innovation. He emphasizes the need to balance application-driven research with fundamental studies to prevent knowledge gaps.
EMBL scientists have founded a start-up company called Elara Pharmaceuticals GmbH to develop new anti-cancer drugs. The company will take promising small molecule leads from EMBL's Chemical Biology Core Facility and further develop them for evaluation in animal models of various types of cancer.
Dr. Progulske-Fox received the Basic Research in Periodontal Disease Award for her work on P. gingivalis and its interactions with human cardiovascular cells. Her research aims to identify virulence genes that could lead to the development of new diagnostic tests, vaccines, and treatments for periodontal and cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Bonewald will receive the IADR Basic Research in Biological Mineralization Award for her groundbreaking work on biological mineralization, a prestigious recognition of her expertise in dental and oral science. The award acknowledges her outstanding contributions to the field, solidifying her position as a leading researcher.
Dr. Koo has received the IADR Young Investigator Award, a prestigious honor recognizing his groundbreaking work on microbial biofilms in dental and oral craniofacial research. The award, supported by Procter & Gamble Co., is designed to stimulate basic research in all dental disciplines.
The Association for Psychological Science has changed its name from American Psychological Society to better clarify its scientific mission. The new name emphasizes the organization's commitment to psychological science and human welfare, as well as its growing international presence.
Charles Townes, the father of quantum electronics, receives the award for his work on masers and lasers, while Raj Reddy is recognized for transforming computer science through robotics and human-computer interaction. Their awards mark the nation's appreciation for their statesmanship in science.
Scientists have found that plants can turn excess sunlight into heat by altering protein structure, preventing damage and promoting growth. A special carotenoid molecule called zeaxanthin aids in this process, making some plants more resistant to harmful radiation.
NeuroRx will be published quarterly by Elsevier and focuses on therapy of neurological disorders, providing a multidisciplinary perspective. Scheduled topics include Neuropsychiatry, Pediatric Neurotherapeutics, and Proteomics, Genomics, Metabolomics.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new polymer membrane that may facilitate hydrogen separation, purification, and transport at high temperatures. The team will test the membranes for use in fuel cell systems to address global energy security concerns.
Florida State University research physicist Edmund G. Myers is using a state-of-the-art Penning trap to measure the precise difference in mass of tritium and helium-3 atoms, which will help pin down the mass of the electron neutrino.
The U.S. National Science Foundation has deployed small unmanned aircraft, including a fixed-wing plane and a miniature helicopter, to assist in the search and rescue efforts during hurricanes. These vehicles provided valuable information to emergency responders, helping them focus their efforts and avoid hazards.
Researchers discovered that quantum coherence in qubits spontaneously disappears, even without external influences. This process is linked to quantum mechanical spontaneous symmetry breaking, which could limit the development of quantum computers.
Brown University has been awarded a four-year, $11.5-million grant to conduct research on hazardous waste and develop tools to remove it. The project aims to identify health threats posed by contaminated sites and create safe remediation devices.
Asian countries are closing the gap with the US in research and development, driven by increased talent pool, R&D spending, and patent growth. The number of researchers in Asia has grown rapidly, while US doctoral degrees have decreased, leading to a decline in US scientific capability.
Dr. Curtis has received the Basic Research in Periodontal Disease Award for his outstanding contributions to understanding bacterial protease function and glycosylation of bacterial virulence determinants. The award recognizes his work in developing novel antimicrobial strategies against periodontal pathogens.
Dr. Kato's research focuses on practical clinical issues affecting the general public, including tooth-grinding which can cause sensitivity and pain. He is one of 15 recipients to receive the IADR Young Investigator Award annually, recognized for his basic research in dental disciplines.
Dr. MacDougall receives the IADR Basic Research in Biological Mineralization Award for her groundbreaking research on tooth formation and tissue-specific gene regulation. Her work has been funded continuously since 1985 by the NIH/NIDCR.
Dr. Du's research reveals that Bruce regulates p53 and the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, increasing cells' sensitivity to cell death. The findings have implications for treating certain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease.
A new system uses fuzzy logic to automatically detect room acoustics and speaker placement, providing each listener with their own personalized
The NSF-funded research centers will investigate decision-making strategies for addressing climate uncertainty, including water management and policy implications. The projects will integrate psychological insights with social sciences to develop tools for better understanding the impacts of climate change.
The ACS Petroleum Research Fund has distributed over $420 million in grants, supporting groundbreaking research in areas like drug development, catalysis, and oil exploration. The fund's impact is evident in the careers of 19 Nobel laureates and thousands of students who have benefited from its support.
A petition from 52 leading European scientific organisations calls for the acceleration of establishing a European Research Council (ERC). The petition stresses the importance of involving the European scientific community and adhering to strict criteria of scientific excellence.
The US Department of Energy has funded two Fusion Science Centers, one at the University of Maryland/UCLA and the other at the University of Rochester. The centers will focus on fundamental issues in fusion plasma science and provide education and training for researchers and students.
A new percolation model allows researchers to study cell signaling and track the movement of single atoms in complex pathways. This breakthrough enables fundamental chemical reactions to be observed at the molecular level in living cells.
Researchers at Yale University confirm the formation of dodecahedral water cages but find no evidence of the Eigen species. The study uses experimental techniques and supercomputers to determine how water molecules interconnect to form these cages, which play a crucial role in biological processes.
Dr. Yoshiro Takano has been recognized for his contributions to biological mineralization, including work on calcium transport in the enamel organ.
Dr. Soskolne has made significant contributions to scientific literature in the fields of oral pathology, bone physiology, and the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. He developed an organ-culture model for studying bone remodeling, which has been used extensively to study bone physiology.
The DOE's Office of Science has developed a strategic plan outlining seven short-term priorities and seven long-term goals in various scientific disciplines. The plan aims to track progress over the next 20 years and ensure US leadership in science, energy, and environment.
Rising star in chemistry, Jianpeng Ma, has made significant breakthroughs in understanding the structure-function relationship of biological molecules. His innovative approach uses computer simulation to explore this connection, paving the way for furthering our fundamental understanding of chemistry.
Studies using frogs with both rod and cone pigments found identical responses to light, suggesting cellular environments, not pigments, determine functional differences. The findings imply that rods' and cones' sensitivity variations may be due to inherent characteristics of their surroundings rather than pigment properties.
Dr. Parada, a renowned researcher, receives the American Cancer Society's Research Professorship award for his work on brain cancers and nerve growth. The five-year award provides flexible funding to enhance visibility of cancer research at UT Southwestern.
The PNNL proteomics resource center will utilize automated ultra-high resolution mass spectrometers to study proteins in even a single cell, shedding light on cellular function and disease progression. The center aims to develop new biomarkers for early cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The new center will conduct basic nuclear science research and partner with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to acquire specific data for the DOE's scientific and engineering effort to maintain the nation's nuclear weapons. The partnership aims to engage faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and students in nuclear science research.
A new series of special reports on 'Living on Earth' will follow cutting-edge research on environmental topics, including a 20-year study on the effects of lead on human development in Cincinnati. The study has found an association between childhood exposure to lead paint and patterns of delinquency and crime among adolescents.
Researchers at the Roybal Centers for Applied Gerontology have been working on translating theory and basic research into practical outcomes for older adults. They emphasize the importance of field research, assessing Useful Field of Vision, and collaboration between researchers and clinicians to address the needs of underrepresented p...
A team of scientists led by Veronica Vaida investigated how visible light breaks down sulfuric acid molecules, revealing a new mechanism for the formation of the Junge layer. This discovery allows researchers to predict sulfate layer formation and model chemical properties of the Earth's atmosphere.
The biogerontological community is at war with anti-aging medicine, threatening the status and funding of their own research. Binstock argues that this campaign may inadvertently undermine their own legitimacy and research support by blurring public understanding of the difference between their work and pseudoscientific products.
The project focuses on fundamental breakthroughs in nanostructured macromolecular materials, with potential applications in military uniforms, miniaturized machines, displays, sensors, and actuators. Branched macromolecules will be studied to provide information for the development of high-tech surfaces and structures.
Lonnie G. Thompson, a leading researcher in ice core analysis, will receive the $150,000 Heineken award for his pioneering work on climate change. His research has provided critical insights into the effects of human activity on the Earth's climate.
The AAAS Report XXVII: Research and Development FY 2003 provides a definitive guide to the President's R&D budget proposals. The report shows a record increase in federal R&D funding to $112 billion, driven by increases in defense and health sectors. Non-defense R&D would decrease slightly, while basic research would see a 7.9% growth.
Researchers discovered that autistic individuals have smaller minicolumns but more of them, leading to excessive communication and stimulation. This pathology may hold the key to understanding autism and other conditions like schizophrenia.
A survey of intensive care units found that many strategies to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) were not being used, including support stockings and low molecular weight heparin. Physicians need more education on latest techniques to reduce DVT incidence, and fundamental research is needed to understand the condition.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $156 million to 229 information technology research projects across the US. These large-scale projects will focus on developing software and IT services that support scientists and engineers in making groundbreaking discoveries.