Chicago Arts And Science

Research funding spread too thin

Sat, 09 Jun 2012 10:00:08 GMT

Research seeking better treatments for cancer, Alzheimer's disease and a host other illnesses rely on federal funding. Yet, with proposed budget cuts for the Centers for Disease Control and flat funding for the National Institutes of Health, less and less money may be available.

Fundraising up, participation down at breast cancer walk

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:00:18 GMT

More than 2,800 survivors and supporters wearing pink filled the streets of Chicago this weekend for the tenth annual Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Walkers raised over $6 million, which will go towards helping local and national orgainzations.

Old gene has new role in anxiety, researchers say

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:00:19 GMT

A "housekeeping gene" thought to just clean up after chemical debris in the body is actually involved in generating anxiety, University of Chicago researchers have found.

Venus trek across the sun tracked by thousands at the Adler

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:00:20 GMT

Venus made a once in a lifetime journey between the Earth and the sun and thousands joined astronmers at the Adler Planetarium to watch celestial history through special sun-filtering glasses.

Cancer survivor’s difficult road to hit smooth pavement across America

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:00:16 GMT

Evan Bartlett’s life began with a huge challenge. At four months old, he was diagnosed with a life-threatening form of cancer and given a 65 percent chance of surviving.

Buzz about pesticides linked to bee colony collapse

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:00:15 GMT

Household and farm pesticides called neonicotinoids may be linked to the deaths of millions of bees, European scientists report. Experts explain why this pesticide may be jeopardizing bee populations and the pollination of crops and flowers, but call for more research.

Rising temperatures cause dogs to pant-ic

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:00:24 GMT

Pet owners are taking out the tennis balls and leashes and getting ready for summer adventures with their dogs. However, the summer heat can take a toll on your funny friend. Learn about how to prevent your dog from heat stroke.

At my wits’ end: So much stress, so little relief

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:00:19 GMT

With the end of the school year drawing to a close for students, stress is in the air. One graduate student recounts her experience of dealing with end-of-the-semester anxiety, and its effects on productivity.

Lacy Schley Slug: STRESS Tweet: How to endure that obligatory, end of the year #stress before #summer Summary: With the end of the school year drawing to a close for students, stress is in the air. One graduate student recounts her experience of dealing with end-of-the-semester anxiety, and its effects on pro

GlobeMed spurs discussion of women's health issues in Africa

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:00:20 GMT

The 2012 GlobeMed Summit featured two keynote speakers, Pamel Angwech and Pamela Barnes, who discussed ongoing health concerns in Africa. Members at Northwestern University oversee partnerships with other universities, such as Columbia University, who works with Gulu Women's Economic Development and Globalization, focusing on women's health and combating HIV in pregnant mother's.

Women's health: A menu of options

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:00:28 GMT

Massage, acupuncture and tips for healthy living offered women options at a Lakeview health fair hosted by Chicago State Reps. Ann Williams (D-11) and Sara Feigenholtz (D-12). Women sampled products and services offered by vendors and health care professionals. Feigenholtz said the fair also gave her and Williams an opportunity to identify health care needs among their constituents.

Mobile devices help people make better health choices

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:00:21 GMT

A study conducted by researchers at the Feinberg School of Medicine shows that people who use mobile devices and are coached over the phone have a better chance at developing - and sticking to - healthier habits.

Walks in the park can nurture mental agility

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:00:27 GMT

People suffering from clinical depression can improve their memory by taking a walk in nature. And that goes for the rest of us, too.

New children's hospital welcomes patients 'home' this weekend

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:00:23 GMT

Kids, politicians and hospital officials celebrated the ribbon cutting at the new Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital Monday morning. Hundreds of people, including state leaders, former patients, and Mrs. Lurie herself, were on hand to open the doors the brand new facility in Streeterville that replaced Children's Memorial Hospital.

State budget jeopardizes care for HIV moms and their babies

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:00:26 GMT

HIV moms and their unborn babies may be in danger of losing prenatal care with Illinois General Assembly passage of a $29.6 billion state budget. HIV moms and their unborn babies may be in danger of losing

$40 million still doesn't dig residents out of traffic

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 23:45:38 GMT

After the closing of a portion of Joliet Road in 1998, detours surrounding the McCook Quarry in McCook continue to cause traffic jams for area residents.The congestion remains, even after the Illinois Department of Transportation received $40 million in compensation from Vulcan Materials Co. to provide relief. Mitigation efforts could take up to 10 years to complete.

As the food sensitivity debate simmers, more doctors defend testing

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 18:20:49 GMT

The debate over whether food intolerances or sensitivities even exist continues, but sufferers report symptoms that are very real. And doctors who treat them are on the same page regarding a test that they rely on for results. Some doctors question whether food sensitivities can be linked to the host of symptoms patients claim. Other doctors insist—along with increasing numbers of their patients—that food intolerances could be contributing to weight retention, migraines, eczema, fatigue, mouth sores and a slew of other issues.

Care for HIV positive mothers and their babies at risk

Sat, 02 Jun 2012 05:13:14 GMT

The Pediatric AIDS Foundation Prevention Initiative in Chicago has provided high-risk HIV positive mothers with financial and mental support for expecting mothers for the past 12 years. However, due to $4 million in the 2013 budget proposal, the Initiative, along with a number of other HIV and Medicaid programs could find their doors closing.

Hawaiian coral reefs mirror impacts of ocean warming and acidification

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:00:28 GMT

The Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology is the hub for all of the major coral reef research in the United States. Scientists and students monitor conditions of the ocean ranging from the impacts of climate change, pollution and rising water temperatures. The vast coral reefs stretching along the Hawaiian Archipelago are among the most beautiful and healthiest in the world, providing a barometer of changing ocean health.

Ending LGBT bullying: A long way to go

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:00:26 GMT

Bullies often pick and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people as targets Members of the LGBT community and experts weigh in on the prevalence of bullying in the general population and

Young athletes risk a lasting blow from concussions.

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:00:29 GMT

It’s an all too typical scenario. A young quarterback or batter takes a hit to the head, gets dazed, walks it off and gets back in the game. But this can lead to catastrophic effects later in life. New high school safety rules, high-profile lawsuits and lots of research are raising awareness about concussions but underreporting remains a problem.

'Bully' puts bullying in perspective

Fri, 25 May 2012 10:00:11 GMT

Guidance counselors and students weigh in on how the recently released documentary "Bully" could be used as a tool in schools to help combat bullying.

Sugar consumption reaches an all-time high

Fri, 25 May 2012 10:00:18 GMT

Consumption of sugar is at an all-time high, according to the American Heart Association. Health professionals correlate heavy sugar consumption with cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes. The Illinois Public Health Institute partnered with the association to sponsor a recent symposium highlighting the health risks and ways to help people make lifestyle changes.

NU engineer reprograms cells to combat malaria worldwide

Fri, 25 May 2012 10:00:17 GMT

Keith Tyo applies synthetic biology - genetically reprogramming cells - to combat global health crises such as malaria. Malaria strikes nearly 500 million people and causes a million deaths every year, according to the World Health Organization. Tyo, a chemical and biological engineer at Northwestern University, recently received a $100,000 grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for his work.

Don’t underestimate the power of the 'dark side'

Mon, 28 May 2012 04:00:31 GMT

Had Darth Vader been an astrophysicist, he would have been spot-on when he cautioned his son Luke not to underestimate the “dark side” of the Force. In some ways, it’s not a stretch to compare dark matter and dark energy to this sci fi idea. They are invisible, yet powerful, phenomena lurking in the shadows of our universe that exert enormous impact on every galaxy.

Coffee may be the key to a longer life

Fri, 25 May 2012 10:00:15 GMT

A new study found that the morning cup of coffee may be adding days to your life.

Biologists announce new plan to track and remove Asian carp

Fri, 25 May 2012 10:00:13 GMT

Biologists will be using underwater sonar and electrofishing to help track and remove Asian carp as the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee takes new measures to safeguard Lake Michigan from the carp invasion.

Annual bike ride takes over Lake Shore Drive this Sunday

Fri, 25 May 2012 10:00:12 GMT

Lake Shore Drive will transform traffic into a sea of bicyclists on Sunday morning when over 20,000 people are expected to ride for a good cause. Bike The Drive, an annual event and fundraiser for the Active Transportation Alliance, gives cyclists a chance to enjoy the ride from one of the city's most scenic routes.

Police up drunken driving and seatbelt patrols for holiday weekend

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:11 GMT

Illinois drivers can expect increased police patrol over Memorial Day weekend thanks to the “Click It or Ticket” campaign, a $1.7 million campaign by state and local law enforcement for life-saving efforts.

Squirmy news to protect pets this summer

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:13 GMT

Veterinarians are vigilant about the need to renew your pet's heartworm medication. Mosquitos deposit the heartworm larvae that quickly grow and multiply in a dog or cat's heart and lungs until they cause heart failure and death. The mild winter makes outbreaks of mosquitos and heartworm more likely, experts say.

Revered alien hunter continues quest with new focus

Wed, 23 May 2012 21:15:02 GMT

After 35 years, the world's most famous alien hunter, Jill Tarter, is stepping down from her position with SETI. The institute reveals how they will continue the search for extraterrestrial life without their director and how Tarter plans to advance the cause.

ELISA experience offers hope for allergy sufferers

Wed, 23 May 2012 20:21:10 GMT

Despite the controversy over the ELISA/ACT LRA test for food allergies, the test helped change my life. It has enabled me to identify foods and additives that caused severe acne, headaches and fatigue for years.

Virtually visualizing tomorrow

Wed, 23 May 2012 10:00:19 GMT

Next generation video games, avatars, stroke therapy and high speed educational networks - these are just a few of innovations being pioneered by researchers at the Electronic Visualization Laboratory of the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Mob mentality can take over protests or even clearance sales

Wed, 23 May 2012 10:00:16 GMT

When large groups of people come together, they can lose their sense of self-awareness and catch a mob mentality. Mob mentality can set in at protests -- or even at a clearance sale. Social scientists point out the warning signs of when crowds are getting out of control and how to stay above the fray.

Inventor of the remote control dies at 96

Mon, 28 May 2012 04:37:40 GMT

Eugene J. Polley, engineer, inventor and creator of the wireless remote control died May 20 in west suburban Downers Grove.

Fitness can help override family history of high blood pressure

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:00:11 GMT

Fitness lowers high blood pressure even for those with a family history of hypertension, a new study of 6,000 participants shows. People should aim for 30-45 minutes of moderate to intense exercise per day, three times a week, to see benefits.

Protect an endangered species this Friday - and always

Mon, 21 May 2012 03:11:26 GMT

Hundreds of plants and animals are struggling to survive around the world and some, perhaps, in your own backyard. Endangered Species Day Friday creates an educational opportunity to celebrate species survival.

Science innovator works to turn molecular mysteries into medical applications

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:00:16 GMT

When the president needs advice about questions in science, he often seeks out members of the National Academy of Sciences. Now he can include Northwestern University physicist Monica Olvera de la Cruz on that exclusive contact list. She is unraveling some of the mysteries of complex molecules such as DNA for medical and other applications. Olvera de la Cruz will be inducted into the academy next April, receiving one of science’s highest honors.

Illinois receives $32.8 million in federal funding to develop health insurance exchange

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:00:13 GMT

Illinois is among six states targeted to receive millions in new funding to help establish Affordable Insurance Exchanges, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services announced Wednesday. But the constitutionality of the law establishing the exchanges for mandatory health insurance is currently before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Xtreme bugs invade the Brookfield Zoo

Thu, 17 May 2012 10:00:19 GMT

"Xtreme Bugs" opens Saturday at the Brookfield Zoo. Meet a 16-foot hornet without having to call in an exterminator – or a squadron of exterminators. Creepy crawlers are not for everyone, but Brookfield invites you to dive into this exhibit of real insects and “animaltronic” bugs ones too.

O'Hare quarantine station keeps eye on travelers

Thu, 17 May 2012 10:00:17 GMT

Health officials will monitor international travelers visiting the Chicago area for the NATO summit

Recipes tune out food allergies

Thu, 17 May 2012 15:40:28 GMT

Learn to cook gluten and allergen free using simple and natural ingredients. Companies at the recent Gluten and Allergen Free Expo in Lombard and culinary experts in Chicago offer the latest products and recipes.

Chicago ideal for renewable energies, international experts say

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:00:08 GMT

Renewable energy goes hand in hand with a safety net against power outages in a terrorist attack, according to an international panel of energy experts. They convened here Tuesday, offering security as one of the top benefits of clean energy alternatives. Chicago offers a premium location for wind and solar, experts said.

A date with the stars, the moon and the sun

Wed, 16 May 2012 17:44:33 GMT

The skies will offer a "ring of fire" solar eclipse May 20 and a unique host of celestial events throughout the remainder of the year. Chicago sky watchers should keep their eyes and telescopes facing upward for the next few months and Adler Planetarium Astronomy Director Geza Gyuk explains why.

Meteorite could rock theory on how the universe was created

Mon, 14 May 2012 22:21:32 GMT

A meteorite that could contains cosmic particles older than the earth was donated to the Chicago Field Museum on Tuesday. The space rock could change scientific theory on when and how the universe was created.