Researchers developed a mathematical model that accurately reproduces gypsy moth population outbreaks, combining host-pathogen and predator dynamics. The model resolves the irregular timing of outbreaks and accounts for spatial synchrony, paving the way for applications to other forest insects and small mammals.
A new study reveals gene microarray technology can accurately diagnose acute myeloid leukemia subtypes, leading to better treatments. The signatures of gene expression identified in pediatric leukemias also apply to adult cases, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
Mitochondrial damage is a key factor in Lou Gehrig's disease, causing cells to die. The study reveals that mutant SOD1 protein clogs the transport system of mitochondria in muscle-controlling nerve cells.
The von Liebig Center has awarded six grants totaling $1.2 million to UC San Diego engineers to commercialize cutting-edge technologies. These projects focus on improving cell phone camera capabilities, developing a video instant-messaging system for emergency responders, and enhancing solar energy efficiency.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic are investigating thalidomide's potential to combat multiple myeloma through various studies. The findings suggest that the risk of progression to the disease persists even after 30 years, emphasizing the need for ongoing clinical trials.
Researchers successfully stimulated nerve cell regeneration after spinal cord injury using a combination of treatments. The study showed that axons can regrow into a cell graft placed in the lesion site, extending into the spinal cord and surrounding tissue.
The NIAID is conducting a clinical trial to test the safety and effectiveness of Omr-IgG-am, an antibody-based product derived from Israeli donors, in treating West Nile virus infection. The study aims to provide preliminary data on the treatment's effectiveness against encephalitis, a brain inflammation caused by WNV infection.
The American Physiological Society (APS) has announced the winners of its annual awards for high school students conducting research in physiology. The four award winners are Allison Landstrom, Samuel Finlayson, John Luo, and Jason Pellegrino, who studied various aspects of glucose homeostasis and lung function.
Researchers found that wild chimpanzees have a slower rate of tooth development compared to captive animals, challenging assumptions about hominid growth patterns. The study suggests that modern humans are not as different from Homo erectus as previously thought, and that a larger body size does not require a longer time to grow.
Researchers develop a system to predict West Nile virus risk based on climate factors, including temperature. The model will provide early warnings for public health professionals and serve as a model for other vector-borne disease risks.
A new study finds that nocturnally migrating songbirds skimp on sleep without suffering negative effects, unlike other animals. By studying captive white-crowned sparrows over a year, researchers found the birds' brains showed no signs of sleep deprivation during migration periods.
A Cornell University-Stanford University meta-analysis of 30 clinical trials found that women starting HRT within two years of menopause had a lower total mortality risk. The study also showed significant reductions in hip fractures and recurrent urinary tract infections, but no change in breast cancer deaths.
A study by McGill scientists identifies a new function for the Runx1 gene in the development of hindbrain visceral motor nerve cells. These cells regulate internal environment stability and vital functions such as blood pressure and heart rate.
The US ITER Project Office will be managed by the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory in partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This collaboration aims to secure technical assistance, procure hardware contributions, and coordinate US fusion community activities for the international ITER project.
Young men in rural Malawi associate HIV with masculinity and engage in risky behavior to demonstrate virility. This misunderstanding of AIDS risk has significant implications for future research and HIV prevention education.
In a study published in the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, researchers found that African participants took on average 91-94% of prescribed HIV medications. The study, which followed 34 participants over 12 weeks, used multiple adherence measures and observed high rates of viral suppression.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology compared the genomes of humans, chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas, and orangutans to identify variations in gene copy numbers. The researchers found over 1,000 genes with changes in copy number, with humans showing the highest number of increased copy numbers, particularly in brain-related genes.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that chronic high-dose consumption of Vioxx raises blood pressure and increases the risk of serious heart problems. A substantial number of patients continue to receive high doses of the drug, despite evidence suggesting its potential harm.
A new study by Michigan Medicine suggests that insured individuals are willing to make sacrifices to help cover the costs of the uninsured. When given the opportunity to discuss their concerns and priorities in a group setting, many participants chose to cover both adults and children, with 76% opting for some form of coverage. The res...
A new model predicts that many carnivores are at high risk of extinction due to their biology and proximity to densely populated areas. The researchers suggest focusing conservation efforts on species with long gestation periods living in areas with rapid human population growth.
University of Washington researchers have found giant raindrops with diameters similar to or greater than the largest ever recorded. The largest ones were at least 8 millimeters in diameter, possibly a centimeter, suggesting unique conditions led to their formation.
Researchers found a 27% relative reduction in mortality among heart failure patients taking beta-blockers compared to those receiving placebo. The study also revealed that adverse effects of beta-blockers were low compared to control.
Researchers discovered that migrating birds sleep less during migration periods and still perform normally. However, they experience impaired performance when not migrating, similar to humans with sleep disorders. The study provides an intriguing model for studying mechanisms of seasonal mood disorders.
The launch of NASA's Aura satellite has been delayed due to an outstanding issue with a solid-state recorder. The new launch date is set for July 14, and media personnel are advised to meet at the main gate of Vandenberg Air Force Base on that day.
Scientists used computer models to analyze the internal structures of Jupiter and Saturn, finding that heavy elements like iron are concentrated in Saturn's core. The research uses data from shock compression experiments and helps improve models of the planets' formation.
Engineers at Ohio State University have developed a patent-pending technology that automates the ELISA biochemical test on a compact disc, significantly reducing the time required for manual testing. The CD-based system detects a sample of rat antibody in just one hour, using only one-tenth the usual amount of chemicals.
The updated report recommends lower LDL cholesterol levels as a direct relationship with reduced risk for major coronary events. Therapeutic lifestyle changes are also emphasized for cholesterol management.
A study found that mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) is linked to aggressive breast cancers, particularly in North African countries. The virus was found in 74% of Tunisian samples but only 36% in US samples, suggesting geographic differences in prevalence.
Women with vulvodynia process pain differently, exhibiting lower pain tolerance at multiple sites throughout the body. The study suggests a neurological basis for the condition, recommending treatment aimed at central pain processing.
Researchers used MRI to study myelin insulation in brain connections, finding they deteriorate three times faster in older adults with Alzheimer's disease. This breakdown disrupts brain function and leads to cognitive decline.
Researchers at Duke University uncover how two genes control the evolution of line and eyespot patterns in butterflies and moths. The study, published in Current Biology, sheds light on the developmental basis of wing patterns and their connection to biodiversity.
A genetic model for hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) disease has been developed, showing that the spastin gene regulates microtubule stability to modulate synaptic structure and function. The study found that specific drugs can remedy defects in synaptic function caused by changes in neuronal spastin levels.
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is an inner ear problem causing spinning or whirling sensations when moving the head. A study found that performing modified Epley's and Semont maneuvers at home can lead to significant symptom relief for 95% of participants.
A recent study found that nearly half of Los Angeles County residents engage in little to no physical activity, with sedentary behavior more prevalent among those with depression or poor health. The study also highlights the importance of promoting physical activity as part of overall wellness, beyond just weight loss.
A call has been made to invest in preventing 'neglected diseases' such as onchocerciasis and Chagas' disease, which can be controlled or eliminated with proven interventions. Investing a fraction of the annual requirements of the Global Fund could bring long-lasting benefits for millions of people.
The American Academy of Neurology is expanding its clinical research trial recruitment efforts to improve patient care through education and research. The association has over 80% of clinical trials experiencing recruitment issues, which can delay or even prevent completion.
Using fruit flies, scientists confirm bursicon's role in hardening exoskeletons after molting and enabling wing development. The discovery could lead to precise timing of pest control measures for migratory locust outbreaks.
Research found that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) coordinates cellular behaviors for tubule development through sequential regulation of ERK and matrix metalloproteases. The study used MDCK cells to examine molecular events during tubulogenesis, revealing distinct regulatory subprograms acting at different times.
A study examining racial variations in nursing home resident vision loss found cataract was the leading cause of low vision for both African American and white residents, with higher prevalence among African Americans. The study highlights the need for intervention programs aimed at providing surgical services to this population.
Biologists at UCSD have discovered a natural defense mechanism in animal cells to ward off certain types of bacteria that secrete toxins. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for bacterial diseases such as pneumonia and strep throat.
Researchers have discovered a new inhibitor called hSef, which regulates the Ras/ERK MAP kinase cascade by limiting ERK activity to specific regions of the cell. This discovery provides insights into how cellular signals are localized and controlled within the cell.
A new study found that highly paid workers reported more cohesion and solidarity among their colleagues, and were more likely to participate in social activities with co-workers. Highly paid workers tend to have jobs with more freedom and autonomy, leading to richer social lives.
Researchers found six HIV patients who started treatment early became test-negative for the virus. The study suggests that reducing HIV to low levels can help boost the immune system's response to the virus.
Researchers found that sphinx moths can learn to associate specific odors with food, demonstrating a complex learning process. The study's findings have wide-ranging applications, including potential uses in defense industry and law enforcement for detecting biological and chemical weapons.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology and NASA found that nanosprings exhibit mechanical properties similar to macroscale springs. The findings suggest other nano materials may behave similarly to their macroscale counterparts.
Roland Glowinski, a renowned mathematician at the University of Houston, has been awarded the Theodore von Kármán Prize for his sustained outstanding contributions to mechanics and applied computational mathematics. He will give a special lecture on numerical simulation of incompressible viscous flow with moving or free boundary: appli...
Researchers found that changes in Notch and Distal-less gene expression mark early events in the evolution of eyespots and intervein patterns. The study demonstrates how dramatic evolutionary changes occur through simple changes in gene regulation timing.
The Virginia Tech National Bioinformatics Resource Center will focus on Brucella, Caliciviruses, hepatitis A, Rabiesvirus, and Coxiella burnetii/Rickettsias. The center will enable researchers to access, analyze, and study molecular data for these infectious diseases.
A new study reveals a previously unrecognized mechanism for blood vessel patterning, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases. The discovery involves an endothelial receptor called PlexinD1, which may enable manipulation of blood vessel growth and development.
A recent study by Takayuki Onai et al. reveals that XsalF, the Xenopus homolog of spalt, regulates forebrain and midbrain-specific gene expression. The research demonstrates direct linkage between XsalF expression and forebrain/midbrain identity.
A study published in Archives of Surgery found that patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery experienced significant declines in ghrelin levels, a hormone that stimulates appetite. The findings suggest that complete division of the stomach contributes to this decline and may play a key role in weight loss.
The report recommends the development of antiviral drugs against smallpox due to its high lethality and ease of transmission. Research on poxvirus mechanisms and animal models is crucial to understand how the virus kills and develop effective treatments without using antiviral drugs.
A study found latanoprost to be safe and well-tolerated in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) for patients with primary open-angle and exfoliation glaucoma. The researchers also reported a mild incidence of increased iris pigmentation, primarily affecting patients with green-brown or yellow-brown eyes.
The National Science Foundation has renewed funding for the Center for Women's Careers and Sciences (CWCS) at Georgia State University. Over 450 educators from 280 institutions across 45 states have participated in CWCS workshops on various topics, including environmental chemistry and forensic science.
Cancer patients anticipate an average of 8.7 symptoms, with fatigue, nausea, and hair loss being the most common expected side effects. The study identifies characteristics of patients who expect more side effects, including age, gender, educational background, and type of cancer.
A meta-analysis of randomized trials found that beta-blockers significantly reduce all-cause mortality in heart failure patients by 27% and absolute annual increases in risks of hypotension, dizziness, and bradycardia. Fewer patients were withdrawn from beta-blocker therapy than from placebo due to adverse effects.
Researchers found that eastern chipmunks in Illinois and Wisconsin descend from ancestors who survived the last North American ice age in isolated forest pockets. These chipmunks migrated south, merging with warmer east and south populations, challenging long-held assumptions about glacier-driven population migrations.
Researchers recorded neuronal activity in primary motor cortex and dorsolateral striatum of mice during different phases of motor-skill learning. They found that cortico-striatal neural circuits undergo substantial changes, differing between fast and slow learning phases.
The UK government has launched a £10 billion 10-year investment framework to boost science and innovation, with a focus on growing the knowledge-intensive sector. The plan includes annual real growth in public science funding of 5.8% over the next decade, aiming to reach 2.5% of GDP by 2017.
A meta-analysis found that fluoxetine, orlistat, and sibutramine can achieve modest but statistically significant short-term weight loss in adults with type 2 diabetes. Levels of glycated hemoglobin were also modestly reduced by the medications.