Researchers found that individuals who separate their identity from negatively perceived organizations are more likely to maintain a positive distinctiveness and distance themselves from those stereotypes. This phenomenon, called disidentification, often leads to action against the organization.
Researchers have identified a key mechanism involved in meningococcal disease, offering new insights into its treatment. A defect in the activation of Protein C could be treated with administration of active Protein C, bypassing the requirements for activation on blood vessels.
A new study from Case Western Reserve University finds that prior knowledge of the donation process, how a family is asked, and demographics play important roles in the decision to donate. Families with prior discussion about their relatives' wishes were more likely to donate.
The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) has awarded $10 million in new grants to support aging research, primarily focusing on junior faculty members. The grants will enable these investigators to make long-term commitments to the field of aging research.
Researchers found that triclosan is effective against malaria and toxoplasmosis parasites at low concentrations, without harming host cells. The study suggests combining triclosan with other inhibitors to disrupt fatty acid synthesis and prevent resistant microbes.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine have identified a gene in mice that causes an autoimmune disease similar to human systemic lupus erythematous. The study found abnormal N-glycans in the mice, leading to SLE-like symptoms and organ damage, offering new insights into understanding autoimmune disease.
Three Dutch researchers, Ewine van Dishoeck, Daan Frenkel, and Dirkje Postma, have been awarded the NWO/SPINOZA Award for their internationally recognized excellence in science. The award recognizes their exceptional contributions to molecular astrophysics, computational physical chemistry, and pathophysiology of respiratory disorders.
At Temple University, students are participating in a month-long course to study the biology of coral reefs, with a field trip to Belize's Great Barrier Reef. Researchers from Temple and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute have also discovered early evidence of root crop cultivation in the Americas, dating back nearly 7,000 years.
Researchers found that aerobic exercise improved specific areas of cognitive function, including memory and executive functions, beyond what was expected after depression lifted. The study suggests that exercise may offset some mental declines associated with aging.
A new study reveals English schoolchildren enjoy learning and teachers the least, while Danish children are more positive about their educational experience. In contrast, French schools emphasize academic objectives, leading to a stronger sense of social identity among pupils.
The yips phenomenon affects over 25% of avid golfers, causing tremors and freezing while putting, with possible physical and psychological causes identified. Researchers hope to find relief through collaboration with the LPGA and testing beta blockers in a new study.
Researchers at USC's Information Sciences Institute have developed an AI system called 'elves' to manage their daily lives, using GPS tracking and automated scheduling. The system has shown success in handling the team's professional lives over an extended period.
Professor Shuji Nakamura of University of California, Santa Barbara, has been awarded the 2000 Honda Prize for his inventions of blue, green, and white light emitting diodes (LEDs). The energy-efficient white LED will replace incandescent lights, reducing energy consumption by up to 50%.
Researchers at the University of Southern California are developing modular robotic units called CONRO, which can autonomously seek and find each other to form a unified system. The units can perform various tasks, such as clearing debris or carrying medicine to people trapped in rubble.
A new microarray technique can decipher the function of master switches in a cell by identifying the circuit, or set of genes, they control across the entire genome. This technique allows researchers to unravel complex genetic information in a week, compared to years with conventional methods.
The study aims to determine the scope and adequacy of adult day services in the US, identifying gaps in availability and utilization. It will help shape future directions for the field and inform planning at local, state, and federal levels.
Researchers found that mitochondrial organization in eggs is crucial for developing embryos. The study showed that the symmetry or asymmetry of mitochondria-carrying microtubules may determine an embryo's viability and success.
A study published in Ecology found that interplanting eucalyptus with nitrogen-fixing trees, such as albizia, increases carbon sequestration in soil. This practice has the potential to significantly impact global efforts to measure and promote carbon sequestration in tropical tree plantations.
Researchers have identified compounds in noni plants that can kill the bacterium causing tuberculosis, offering a potential alternative to existing treatments. The finding could lead to cheaper and more effective medications for this growing global health threat.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has awarded a $15.11 million grant to researchers developing new drugs for African sleeping sickness and leishmaniasis. The five-year project aims to create a world-class academic and scientific consortium to target these two parasitic diseases, which kill millions of people in developing nations.
Researchers have discovered a chemical in sea urchins that appears to attract and repel starfish, which are devasting coral reefs at an alarming rate. The finding could provide a new method for controlling the starfish population and saving these valuable ecosystems.
A study of over 700 HMO patients found that those with an alcohol-and-other-drug dependency were more likely to be younger, male, and have greater psychiatric and family/social problems. In contrast, those with an alcohol-only dependency were more likely to be older, female, and college educated.
Researchers aim to understand how sonar affects marine creatures by creating a sea sound simulator. The ESME project will analyze data from various organizations and develop mathematical models to predict environmental effects of different sonar types.
A new study found that people in unhappy relationships with mild high blood pressure experience sustained increases in blood pressure, while those in loving relationships show a decrease. The research suggests that marital distress may be a significant factor in raising blood pressure in vulnerable individuals.
Researchers have discovered evidence of agriculture dating back 1,400 years to the Princess Point people in southwestern Ontario. Well-preserved remnants of these ancient corn crops can still be found in the area, providing valuable insights into the transition from a hunting and gathering society to an agricultural one.
Dr. Justin Congdon, a senior ecologist, has won the 2000 Longevity Prize for his groundbreaking research on Blanding's turtles, demonstrating traits that support evolutionary theory better than senescence theory. He will receive 100,000 French francs and deliver a lecture based on his work.
A survey of black and white managers found that black managers report a slower rate of promotion and less psychosocial support than their white counterparts. The study suggests that organizations may be underutilizing qualified African-American employees, leading to resentment, boredom, stress, and turnover.
A new study led by UCSF researchers suggests that prescribing beta-blockers to most people who have had heart attacks could save seven times more years of life than mammography screening over 20 years. The study projects 4,000 lives saved and 3,500 averted heart attacks at a reasonable cost.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a technique to measure and visualize how well the lower back moves during rowing, revealing differences between good and bad techniques. The system aims to provide dynamic feedback to rowers and coaches to improve training and reduce injuries.
A team of scientists discovered bacteria that can clean up contaminated water by stripping away impurities and re-packaging them into zinc sulfide crystals. These microorganisms, found in the Desulfobacteriaceae family, have the potential to improve the efficiency of mining waste removal.
Alka Agrawal's groundbreaking research reveals the role of 'jumping DNA' in creating our modern-day immune system, which has evolved over 450 million years. Her discovery, made possible by a unique petri-dish system, shows how genes like RAG1 and RAG2 enable complex immune responses.
The program aims to encourage public housing residents to adopt healthier lifestyles and use available health services. A successful pilot study revealed that 25% of participants had high blood pressure, 65% were smokers, and over 50% were overweight.
A University of Michigan study found that men living in urban areas were 62% more likely to die than those in suburbs or rural areas. The excess mortality risk was most significant for infections and tumors, suggesting exposure to hazardous urban environments and stress.
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh have engineered a novel gene therapy to treat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a genetic disorder causing progressive muscle weakening and death. The mini-gene AAV vector effectively delivers functional dystrophin protein, correcting muscle dysfunction and degeneration.
A new healthcare team model, called Virtual Integrated Practice (VIP), aims to improve the management of chronic diseases in geriatric patients. The study uses team principles from the business world and will link patients and doctors with a team of health professionals using technology such as cellular phones and the Internet.
Researchers at the University of Georgia are developing two prevention programs aimed at reducing alcohol and substance use among rural African-American children. The projects, led by Dr. Gene Brody and Dr. Velma McBride Murry, will focus on strengthening family and cognitive processes to foster competencies and deter substance abuse.
In a study on arctic ground squirrels, researchers found that females severely reduced reproduction and most died over winter when populations reached maximum capacity. This regulation helps control population growth and maintain survival rates.
A group of scientists and policymakers are convening a conference to develop a federal science policy blueprint that addresses critical national issues. The conference aims to link basic science research with vital areas of public interest, such as education, energy, and global climate change.
A new study found that individuals with a sensation-seeking personality are more sensitive to nicotine's mood-altering effects, particularly at lower doses. This increased sensitivity may be a key factor in their risk of becoming smokers.
A University of Toronto researcher found a polar lake in the Arctic has recovered significantly despite decades of sewage dumping, using diatoms as effective bio-monitors. The phosphorus levels have declined sharply since 1972, tracking the decrease in population at a former Canadian military base.
Research reveals that aggressive young children often feel rejected by their friends, school, and parents. The study challenges the assumption that aggressive kids have high self-esteem.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) has awarded five new grants to support research on osteogenesis imperfecta. These grants will focus on developing treatments, such as gene therapies and drug treatments, to improve diagnosis and treatment options for people with OI.
A recent study found that men are twice as likely to develop Parkinson's disease compared to women. The risk of developing the disease increases with age for both men and women. Researchers are still unsure why Parkinson's is more common in men, but one theory suggests that estrogen may protect women from the disease.
Two girls with rare bone disorders Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy and progressive osseous heteroplasia showed severely depressed levels of Gs-alpha protein, suggesting a collective culprit behind the conditions. The study provides new insights into the developmental pathways controlling normal bone development.
A fragment of a brain growth protein has been isolated that nurtures brain cells, potentially preventing loss of brain function caused by Alzheimer's disease. The fragment acts through mechanisms similar to its larger parent protein and has shown promise in maintaining nerve cell health.
Geochemist Jeffrey Severinghaus will investigate the stability of past and future climates using a new technology for extracting air samples from ancient ice cores. His research aims to decipher how methane hydrates contribute to the atmospheric methane budget and potentially trigger catastrophic climate changes.
The study found that comprehensive community prevention programs can reduce alcohol-related traffic crashes, injuries from crashes, and assaults by up to 43% and 51%. The intervention communities experienced substantial reductions in self-reported alcohol consumption and heavy drinking.
A Carnegie Mellon University computer model performed as well as a human in managing seven tasks simultaneously and coping with frequent interruptions. The training advantages of the model are enormous, allowing operators to gain valuable experience at much less cost.
A 290-million-year-old, upright-lizard-like reptile has been found, predating the age of dinosaurs by at least 60 million years. The discovery provides strong evidence for the early evolution of herbivorous reptiles on land, suggesting that bipedalism evolved independently in different animal groups.
Frank S. Quinn, a professor of mathematics at Virginia Tech, has been recognized as an AAAS fellow for his contributions to low-dimensional topology. He is the first person to prove the 4-dimensional annulus conjecture, a theoretical work that aims to understand mathematical structures and potentially connect with high-energy physics.
The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) has launched Infoaging.org, a new website offering easy access to authoritative research on aging. The site aims to provide credible information on various aspects of aging, addressing the need for reliable health information among graying baby boomers.
Researchers found that low-level ultraviolet irradiation and refrigeration can significantly increase the antioxidant compound resveratrol in grapes, potentially leading to reduced risk of high cholesterol, heart disease, and Alzheimer's. The treatment has no known side effects and may be beneficial for other grape varieties.
Rutgers University has five faculty members recognized as fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for their outstanding research and achievements in various fields. Jolie Cizewski, Joan Ehrenfeld, Doina Ganea, Paul Kantor, and Thomas Rudel were cited by AAAS for their contributions to physics, ecology,...
A recent study found that students who effectively manage their time tend to have better grades, regardless of the number of study hours they put in. The research suggests that educators should reevaluate how they assess student efforts and consider changes to promote academic success.
New research suggests angiotensin-(1-7) levels may predict and prevent preeclampsia. The hormone helps regulate high blood pressure during normal pregnancy.
Researchers at Northwestern University are conducting six studies on the role of diet and hormones in breast cancer prevention and development, as well as innovative translational therapies.
The DFG and NSFC have established a Science Promotion Centre in Beijing to support joint research projects between Chinese and German scientists. The centre will fund the preparation and elaboration of projects, as well as finance 'Rainbow Conferences' aimed at fostering links between top researchers.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that repeated exposure to azole drugs can lead to the development of drug-resistant yeast infections. About 75% of women between 18 and 35 will experience at least one yeast infection caused by Candida albicans, a common type of yeast fungus.
The Smoke-Free Families National Dissemination Office aims to increase cessation rates by up to 70% through counseling and strong social support. The office will disseminate current best practices and conduct research to integrate effective quitting methods into clinical settings.
A new study aims to improve adolescent girls' fitness levels and reduce their risk of obesity. The Trial of Activity in Adolescent Girls (TAAG) project will test whether structured physical activity programs can increase fitness and prevent decline, with a focus on underrepresented groups.