Astronomers have uncovered hints that there may be cosmic strings - lines of pure mass-energy - stretching across the entire Universe. Cosmic strings are predicted by high energy physics theories, including superstring theory. This is based on the idea that particles are not just little points, but tiny vibrating bits of string Cosmic strings are predicted to have extraordinary amounts of mass - perhaps as much as the mass of the Sun - packed into each meter of a tube whose width is less a billion billionth of the size of an atom.

  Through one of the largest studies yet of Alzheimer's disease patients and their brothers, sisters, and children, researchers have found strong evidence that genes other than the well-known susceptibility risk factor APOE4 influence who is at risk for developing the neurodegenerative disease later in life.

  Scientists have discovered a way of speeding up the production of hollow-core optical fibers -- a new generation of optical fibers that could lead to faster and more powerful computing and telecommunications technologies.

  In a first-of-its-kind safety research study, University of Florida researchers have injected an anti-inflammatory compound into the eye of a person with a sight-robbing disease. The procedure was performed last month to test the safety and effectiveness of a synthetic peptide -- a small protein fragment -- in procedures involving the human eye.

  Monkeys living on an island withoutbig cat predators do not show any particular alarm when recorded tiger growls are played to them, according to new research. The pig-tailed langurs do, however, flee in a hurry from the sound of human voices.

  New research supports the idea that sleep plays a critical role in the brain's ability to change in response to its environment. This ability, called plasticity, is at the heart of learning. This research clarifies this phenomenon, supporting the idea that sleep plays a critical role in the brain's ability to change in response to its environment. This ability, called plasticity, is at the heart of learning.

  Scientists have identified multiple genes that are linked to systemic lupus erythematosus, a devastating autoimmune disease that affects between 1 million and 2 million Americans. The scientists also confirmed earlier findings linking lupus to several other genes -- highlighting the role that genetics plays in the disease.

  Researchers have for the first time analyzed the antioxidant properties of olive oil, a product rich in polyphenols (natural antioxidants). They believe these antioxidants improve the lives of people suffering from oxidative stress, and are also highly beneficial for the prevention of cell aging and osteoporosis.

  Natural gas distributed throughout the Marcellus black shale in northern Appalachia could conservatively boost proven US reserves by trillions of cubic feet if gas production companies employ horizontal drilling techniques, according to a new research.

  A significant step forward has been taken in the understanding of how lupus works with the publication of four new studies identifying genes involved in this often debilitating chronic disease. Rheumatologist Mark K. Crow talks about the importance of the studies and the questions they leave unanswered, along with insights on next steps in lupus research.

  Anaerobic microbes in the Earth's oceans consume 90 percent of the methane produced by methane hydrates -- methane trapped in ice -- preventing large amounts of methane from reaching the atmosphere. Researchers now have evidence that the two microbes that accomplish this feat do not simply reverse the way methane-producing microbes work, but use a sulfur compound instead.

  Researchers have identified the neurological basis of depression in male athletes with persisting post-concussion symptoms. The study has important clinical implications for the treatment of individuals who have suffered a cerebral concussion.

  As MESSENGER flew by the planet, it missed its targeted aim point by only 8.25 kilometers (5.12 miles), affording the critical gravity assist needed to continue on a course to become – in 2011 – the first spacecraft ever to orbit Mercury. In addition to images of the previously unseen portion of the planet's surface, measurements were made that will contribute to the characterization of all aspects of Mercury and its environment, from its metallic core to the far reaches of its magnetosphere.

  Scientists have uncovered a specific genetic mutation that suppresses the development of systemic lupus, an incurable autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack itself. The research suggests potential targets for future drug development.