News from the institutes and societies that organize science. Covers scientific medals, university-hospital partnerships, oncology cooperatives, and society leadership.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified a critical molecular link between endothelial cells and the development of new blood vessels. This discovery could lead to more targeted treatments for heart disease and cancer with fewer side effects.
Researchers from the Partnership for Natural Disaster Reduction (PNDR) presented various studies on wind and earthquake resistance, including a large-scale extreme wind research facility and hurricane-resistant homes. The PNDR program aims to reduce damage from natural disasters through concerted nationwide research efforts.
Researchers refute Garrett Hardin's 'Tragedy of the Commons' thesis, highlighting successful management through incentives, rules, and monitoring. Small groups and local autonomy are key to effective resource use.
A nationwide survey of internists found that up to 50% of physicians in managed care settings failed to prescribe recommended services, while 39% in fee-for-service settings did so. Financial incentives led to a decrease in ordering tests and referrals.
Researchers at the University of Chicago have discovered that yeast can form an interconnected system where one organelle gives rise to another through outgrowths of its own membrane. This finding sheds light on disorders such as Menkes disease and polycystic kidney disease, which are caused by defects in Golgi function.
Researchers at the University of Michigan discovered that folic acid effectively lowers homocysteine levels in blood plasma, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The study found that folic acid supplementation can also benefit people with normal MTHFR enzymes by protecting them against heat-induced enzyme inactivation.
A study of California physicians reveals mixed support for the state's law requiring suspected domestic violence cases to be reported to authorities. The majority believe the law creates barriers to care and violates patient confidentiality, which could deter victims from seeking help or jeopardize their safety.
Researchers have successfully removed up to 99% of trichloroethylene from contaminated soil using the innovative Lasagna technology, which uses electrical current fed to electrodes buried in the ground. This cost-effective approach has potential for wide use and minimal environmental disturbance.
Research presents evidence that moderate caffeine consumption can improve performance in tasks requiring sustained attention. Additionally, studies suggest that green tea catechins have anti-oxidative, antibacterial, and antiviral potency, while polyphenolic compounds in cocoa may also have cardiovascular benefits.
Researchers have found that butyltins can disrupt the function of human natural killer cells, which are critical in fighting tumor cells and infected cells. The study's findings highlight the need for further research into the potential health effects of these chemical contaminants on humans.
Scientists have developed cotton fabrics with built-in pesticide detoxifiers that can be cleaned and reactivated by washing with bleach. The treatment reduces pesticide levels in garments to harmless fragments within minutes, offering a comfortable and protective solution for agricultural workers and gardeners.
Research on limonoids, compounds in citrus peels, indicates potential anticancer activities, inhibiting human breast cancer cell proliferation and reducing LDL cholesterol levels. Field tests also demonstrate insect pest management prospects for these compounds.
Researchers have developed a new, more effective form of the medication Ritalin that produces fewer side effects and has the potential to be used in anticocaine therapy. The improved drug is made through a chiral synthesis process, which allows for smaller doses and reduced potential side effects.
Researchers have confirmed that blue-green algae Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) significantly lowers cholesterol levels in animals. Additionally, the algae's benefits appear to be independent of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), suggesting a potential dual mechanism of action.
A Canadian study found that university-educated white-collar women experience significant increases in blood pressure due to office stress and large family responsibilities. The research revealed a persistent effect of these factors on blood pressure throughout the day, evening, and night.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new way to study the chemistry of life using tiny, cell-sized containers called vesicles. These vesicles allow for the creation of minuscule chemical reactions that can mimic the conditions found inside living cells.
The American Chemical Society is honoring black chemist Percy Julian's accomplishments in pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis. Julian made significant contributions to the development of a low-cost synthetic method for cortisone, an antiarthritis drug, and synthesized the glaucoma medication physostigime.
A team of researchers led by Christine MacKenzie aims to create efficient intelligent tools for performing tasks in both virtual and real environments. The goal is to achieve direct vision and manipulation in a virtual hand lab, enabling humans to use their fingers as pointers.
Researchers found no link between M74 and environmental pollutants, but suspect complex interacting factors in the Baltic Sea. Precautionary treatment with Vitamin B1 reduces mortality in salmon hatcheries.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a decontamination foam that can neutralize chemical and biological agents in minutes. The foam, called Decon Foam 100, is made from ordinary household products and could be dispensed immediately after an attack, even before evacuating casualties.
Researchers found that contaminants can have very little impact on the physical properties of plastics, allowing for more functional products to be made from recycled materials. This could increase production of recycled plastic products like car bumpers and street furniture.
A new longitudinal study found that working mothers do not have a significant negative impact on their children's development. The research, based on the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, analyzed data from approximately 12,600 individuals and found no significant differences between children of employed and non-employed mothers.
Researchers found that Montserrat's volcanic ash contains high concentrations of cristobalite, a mineral linked to lung disease silicosis. The study suggests that living near the volcano poses a health risk, and future studies aim to determine acceptable levels of exposure.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a processing method that preserves soy's health benefits in breakfast cereals and snacks. The extrusion process helps retain isoflavones, which are linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
A University of Illinois professor found that transformational leadership techniques practiced by front-line supervisors lead to increased employee satisfaction, supervisor effectiveness, and extra effort. This research highlights the importance of leadership skills at all levels, not just office executives.
Researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children have successfully used biological engineering to prevent the closing of the ductus arteriosus, a key passage between the heart and lungs. This breakthrough approach could lead to a more effective and safe way to help infants with severe heart problems survive.
Researchers found that 82% of mothers of full-term babies thought their child's temperament was easy, while only 34% of preterm baby mothers shared the same sentiment. This disparity may be attributed to prolonged hospital stays and limited social interaction with other mothers.
A new database of over 360,000 mouse gene fragments will help scientists study mammalian development and compare genome sequences with humans. The catalog, developed by a team of researchers led by Marco Marra, provides quick access to genes and aids in mapping genes onto chromosomes.
A study of 300 healthy women found that social isolation and suppressed anger are associated with decreased heart rate variability, a sign of physiological rigidity. This increased vulnerability to stress can lead to various diseases, including coronary heart disease and mortality.
Research suggests tart cherries' anthocyanins can prevent oxidative damage and inhibit inflammatory enzymes, rivaling commercial antioxidants like vitamin E. Daily consumption of 20 tart cherries may provide anti-inflammatory benefits for pain relief from arthritis and gout.
Researchers used a copula model to analyze joint mortality data, finding that considering two covered lives as dependent rather than independent reduced annuity values by about 5 percent. The study's findings have significant implications for actuarial research and annuity valuation.
Researchers discovered a link between the dopamine transporter gene (SLC6A3-9) and cigarette smoking behavior. Individuals carrying this gene were less likely to start smoking before age 16 and more likely to quit smoking, with an average of one and a half times greater success rate.
Luis Montaner, a Wistar Institute scientist, has been awarded a $79,000 grant to support his HIV-1 Patient Partnership for Basic Research project. The project aims to find new treatments and develop vaccines for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) through medical research.
A two-year study by Purdue University and McGill University found that 35% of employees promoted while working reduced hours. Successful part-time employees were highly skilled, organized, and flexible, with supportive bosses being a critical success factor.
The article discusses the challenges of maintaining the global research commons, citing issues with existing institutions' lack of organization and staff, as well as national economic demands that hinder international collaborations. Experts emphasize the need to understand 'best practices' from the past to inform reform efforts.
Researchers have found that incineration of solid waste has been the dominant source of atmospheric lead to the New York City metropolitan area, contradicting current mainstream thinking. The study also suggests that solid waste combustion may contribute to other atmospheric pollutants.
The American Chemical Society's spring national meeting will discuss various topics including obesity treatment and the use of geochemicals to detect extraterrestrial life. Over 5,000 scientific papers will be presented to an estimated 10,000 attendees.
A US-France-Canada physics collaboration has confirmed that hydrogen bonds in water partially get their identity from covalent bonds within the H2O molecule. This property is a manifestation of quantum mechanics' effects, enabling researchers to improve predictions and advance areas like nanotechnology and superconductors.
Researchers at the US Department of Agriculture have created an anti-browning treatment that prevents apples from turning brown for up to five weeks. The new technique uses natural products and doesn't require special packaging, with potential applications in other fresh-cut fruits.
The Digital Michelangelo Project aims to create highly realistic, three-dimensional images of Michelangelo's statues, allowing for interactive viewing from any perspective. The project will also enable the restoration of damaged areas through virtual reconstruction and the creation of accurate physical replicas.
A new sensor developed by Johns Hopkins researchers can detect minute traces of nerve agents sarin and soman in water, boasting sensitivity levels a million times greater than previous reported solutions. The sensor combines molecular imprinting with optical luminescence to achieve this remarkable detection capability.
A commonly used sunscreen ingredient, PBSA, can damage DNA when exposed to sunlight, according to a recent study. The research suggests that this could lead to increased risk of developing skin cancer if similar damage occurs within skin cells.
A comprehensive study reveals that new permanent press clothing, paints, floor finishes, wallpaper, and fingernail polishes can emit substantial amounts of formaldehyde. Low-level exposure can cause irritation, while long-term exposure may lead to respiratory difficulties and other health issues.
The National Patient Safety Foundation has awarded four grants totaling $350,000 to researchers studying various aspects of patient safety, including clinical expertise and drug name confusion errors. The grants aim to reduce preventable healthcare errors and promote patient safety as a distinct field of research.
Researchers found a 7% decline in smoking rates among African American smokers who participated in the program, with even greater declines in women under 35. The study suggests that peer-delivered programs can be an effective way to reduce smoking rates in low-income communities.
The Wildlife Conservation Society will use the grant to conduct research in three distinct ecosystems and educate decision-makers about strategies to protect natural systems. The funding aims to safeguard areas within 100 miles of New York City, benefiting both people and wildlife.
A newly discovered glycosphingolipid receptor may help explain susceptibility to urinary tract infections and provide a potential new treatment strategy. The receptor, called sialosyl galactosyl globoside (SGG), is suspected to be on urogenital tract cells in about 30% of all men and women, binding strongly to E. coli bacteria.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that adding cherry tissue to ground beef retards spoilage and reduces the formation of suspected cancer-causing compounds like HAAs. The resulting product had fewer HAAs when pan-fried, with an overall reduction of 69-78.5 percent.
Researchers at The Neurosciences Institute propose a new hypothesis, the dynamic core hypothesis, suggesting that consciousness arises from the synchronized activity of large populations of neurons in the cerebral cortex. This approach aims to explain two fundamental properties of conscious states: integration and differentiation.
The National Journal of Young Investigators (JYI) has published its premier online issue, featuring undergraduate-authored articles in various scientific disciplines. The journal aims to provide a platform for young scientists to showcase their research, discuss experiences, and connect with the scientific community.
TOPIC ISLANDS transforms large documents into visualizations and excerpted summaries to recognize themes and facilitate easy understanding. The technology can process multiple pages simultaneously and is applicable to daily needs of individuals and organizations.
The new report reveals that drug overdoses and poisonings cause one-third of injury deaths in San Francisco. The city's injury rates are lower than Oakland but higher than Los Angeles and San Jose, while the leading causes of injury death include firearms, falls, and motor vehicle accidents.
Researchers at Amgen have demonstrated how a newly discovered protein regulates feeding behavior, suggesting a potential treatment for obesity. The study found that the protein blocks alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone, leading to increased food consumption.
The AAAS Science Journalism Awards recognize the work of individuals who excel in reporting on science and its impact on society. In 1998, four teams of journalists won awards in large newspaper, small newspaper, magazine, television, and radio categories for their outstanding reporting.
The CFIT Reduction Task Force has found that airlines are placing too much faith in new technologies and not enough emphasis on basic training and safety procedures. The task force recommends a checklist and education aid to alert flight crews to the dangers of CFIT accidents, which have increased by seven confirmed incidents this year.
A NASA-led panel aims to create a road map for science communication, considering new technologies and their impact. The Research/Road Map group will focus on adding value to scientific research and communicating findings to the public.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have created a new process called 'intelligent tooling' that uses an executive pin art toy to create precise industrial moulds. The tool allows companies to produce complex products with high accuracy and reusability.
Researchers will use computer simulation to test mathematical theories on faults and failure in complex networked systems. The goal is to develop methods to reduce the frequency of failures and limit their effects.
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that two-thirds of analyzed newspaper coverage provided a negative representation of managed care, potentially influencing public opinion and policy. The study highlights the need for accurate and balanced reporting on healthcare issues.
Researchers at UH and AOI create mid-infrared laser on new compliant universal substrate, improving cooling and power output. The technique expands epitaxy options, enabling production of high-performance semiconductor devices like lasers and solar cells.