Paleontologist Josh Smith rediscovered two photographs of the holotype of Spinosaurus aegyptiacus, providing new insight into the dinosaur's skeleton. The images were found in the Palaontologische archives of the Museum in Germany and allow for direct comparison with Stromer's 1915 illustrations.
Researchers have identified two patterns of cognitive impairment in people with AIDS, differing in severity and brain region affected. The study found that while severe dementia has decreased, a milder form of impairment has increased, warranting further investigation into its mechanisms and potential treatments.
Researchers found that short-term yoga practice significantly improved chest wall expansion and lung function in young, healthy adults. The study suggests that yoga may benefit people with illnesses affecting breathing, such as asthma.
Researchers have created genetically modified 'prosthetic' retinal cells that restore visual responses in mice with photoreceptor degeneration. The approach targets the cellular level and avoids complications associated with traditional methods, offering a potential breakthrough in treating complete blindness caused by inherited diseases.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers suggests that a commercially available antibiotic, ceftriaxone, may be effective in fighting dementia in HIV patients. The study found that ceftriaxone protected human neuronal cells from the effects of HIV proteins Tat and gp120.
Strobel's program will be an introductory science course with hands-on learning, challenging students to think like working scientists. Students will collect natural products, purify and analyze compounds, and test their potential benefits.
David Walt's HHMI-funded program aims to infuse undergraduate and K-12 education with scientific discovery, tackling real-world problems and promoting interdisciplinary approaches. The initiative seeks to boost the flow of students into scientific research and careers.
Joan A. Steitz and Thomas D. Pollard, two Yale biologists, have been awarded the 2006 Gairdner International Award for their groundbreaking discoveries in understanding autoimmune disease and cell motility. Their work has significant implications for improving human quality of life.
Researchers found that interferon treatment correlates with signaling proteins STAT1 and STAT3, which can be used as biomarkers to predict melanoma risk. The study suggests that these markers could help identify patients most likely to benefit from specific doses of interferon therapy.
Researchers developed a prototype model to gauge lung cancer risk based on medical history and genetics. The model predicts increased risk in heavy smokers with emphysema, as well as those with inefficient DNA repair capacity.
Phenethyl-ITC, a phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to suppress the growth of human prostate cancer cells. Mice grafted with human prostate tumors and administered PEITC daily exhibited significantly reduced tumor volume compared to controls.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a nanoparticle that provides significant protection against radiation-induced damage, including hair loss and organ damage. The fullerene-based agent showed promise in reducing organ damage by half to two-thirds, even when given before or after radiation exposure.
Cuba Gooding Jr. receives the award for his work raising awareness about multiple sclerosis, a condition affecting millions worldwide. The American Academy of Neurology recognizes his efforts to educate and support those living with MS.
Scientists used RNA interference to block a mineralocorticoid receptor, which signals the body to absorb sodium and water into the bloodstream. The treatment kept blood pressure from worsening but did not eliminate it, and significantly reduced kidney damage in rats.
Research explores alternative models for reducing alcohol consumption, including tax incentives and low-alcohol drinks. Pharmacological investigation into safe substitutes like partial agonists could hold the key to eradicating alcohol misuse problems.
A vaccine against cervical cancer has shown sustained high levels of antibodies for up to 4.5 years, providing substantial long-term protection against cancerous cell changes associated with high-risk HPV types. The vaccine was also found to be effective against persistent and new infections, setting the stage for its widescale adoption.
The discovery of Tiktaalik roseae fills the evolutionary gap between fish and limbed animals, revealing a gradual transition from water to land. The fossil shows characteristics of both fish and tetrapods, indicating that life on land evolved gradually in shallow waters.
Individuals with type 2 diabetes have a heightened risk of developing uric-acid stones, likely due to their highly acidic urine. The study suggests that factors associated with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance account for the increased acidity.
The e-cohort study aims to provide information on factors affecting the work and health of nurses and midwives in Australia. The research also hopes to examine population health outcomes, retention rates, and workforce shortages.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) has partnered with Tetra Pak to support World Osteoporosis Day. The partnership aims to empower women and men to take responsibility for their bone health. World Osteoporosis Day, celebrated on October 20, highlights the importance of healthy food and nutrition in building strong bones.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that epilepsy surgery is durable and effective, improving quality of life for patients with intractable epilepsy. The procedure removed the focal region of brain disease in 399 consecutive patients, with a 4% risk of complications.
The prevalence of overweight children and adolescents in the US has doubled since 1980, while obesity rates have tripled. In 2003-2004, 17.1% of children were overweight and 32.2% of adults were obese. Significant increases were seen among males, with a rise in extreme obesity among women
A recent study found that patients with minor or subsyndromal depression are five and a half times more likely to be diagnosed with major depression within a year. These less-severe conditions often go undiagnosed and untreated, causing greater functional disability among the elderly population.
Richard Zare, a renowned chemist, has been awarded the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Professorship to develop an innovative undergraduate course on laser technology and its applications. He aims to ignite scientific curiosity in students through hands-on experiences and interdisciplinary approaches.
A one percent reduction in cancer mortality would be worth approximately $500 billion, according to a new study published in the Journal of Political Economy. The study estimates that increased life expectancy is worth more than $1.2 million for each American alive today, adding about $3.2 trillion per year to national wealth.
A majority of Americans (55%) expect the world's natural environment to be in worse shape in 10 years than it is now. Despite party affiliation, 67% of Democrats and 48% of Republicans are pessimistic about environmental health. A bipartisan 86% supports government action to improve the environment during the next year.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered a genetic signature that predicts colon cancer, distinguishing between stem cell and non-stem cell activity in colon crypts. This finding could lead to the development of new drugs by replacing lost molecules involved in cancer development.
A study published in the American Physiological Society found that pine nut oil stimulated two well-known appetite-suppressing peptide hormones, CCK and GLP1, increasing their levels by 60% and 25%, respectively. This effect lasted for up to four hours, reducing desire to eat and prospective food intake scores.
Research found harbor seals that were heavier when captured continued to gain weight on high fat and low fat diets, but smaller pups lagged behind. The study suggests changes in prey availability, including herring, may contribute to the declining seal population.
Regular use of antihistamines has been linked to a higher risk of developing low-grade and anaplastic astrocytomas, two types of brain tumors. Conversely, anti-inflammatory medications may help protect against glioblastoma, a more deadly type of tumor.
Research on Western Sandpipers reveals that birds fatten more rapidly as they move further north, with longer stays at refuelling sites resulting in lower fattening rates. This suggests changes in behaviour or physiology may be responsible for the observed differences.
A meta-analysis of 18 epidemiologic studies found a small association between soy intake and reduced breast cancer risk. The risk appeared to be greater in premenopausal than postmenopausal women, but the data have limitations due to inaccurate measurements and potential surrogate effects.
Researchers found a new mechanism for gene evolution, with antifreeze fish using non-coding DNA to create a functional protein. This discovery challenges conventional thinking on gene origins and may provide insights into the emergence of new functions in living organisms.
A study by Wageningen University found that weight and a saddle induce an overall extension of the horse's back, contributing to soft tissue injuries. The researchers hope to generate guidelines for riding techniques and maximum weight limits to prevent such problems.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed a novel growth factor that significantly improves the ability of human fat-derived stem cells to be transformed into cartilage cells. The growth factor, BMP-6, stimulates the production of key biochemical markers of cartilage cell proliferation, suggesting potential for tissu...
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified a new gene called DAF-36 that converts cholesterol into the active ligands for the DAF-12 nuclear receptor. These ligands promote C. elegans reproductive capacity and prevent dauer diapause, a long-lived larval phase.
A new approach to controlling swine disease, known as acclimatization, was tested on a farm in Illinois. The study found that pigs exposed to the farm's wild-type virus developed immunity but suffered reproductive issues, casting doubt on its effectiveness.
Researchers found that St. John's wort and Echinacea can alter the metabolic capacity of enzymes that process medications, potentially leading to reduced therapeutic efficacy. This interaction is particularly concerning for commonly used pharmaceuticals like oral contraceptives and antihistamines.
Research identifies three estrogen-related gene variants associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease in women. The study found that these genetic variations affect 10-20% of the female population and could be used to predict disease risk using a simple blood test.
A study published in Liver Transplantation found that pediatric liver transplant patients waited significantly longer than in the past, with an average waiting time of over 10 years. The number of pediatric patients on the waitlist increased only slightly, while the mortality rate remained high, particularly among young children.
A new mathematical algorithm designed to improve noise cancellation technologies can reduce unwanted helicopter and cabin noise by 40 decibels or more. The 'feedforward' active-noise control works by generating anti-noise signals that adapt to acoustic coupling, solving a long-standing problem in the field.
The authors outline a vision for a dynamic learning organizational system to ensure quality care at an affordable price. Key elements include professionalism, systems engineering, and information technology to provide universal coverage through a market-based model with government assistance.
Researchers found that ginger causes both apoptosis and autophagic cell death in ovarian cancer cells, potentially circumventing resistance to conventional chemotherapy. The study suggests ginger may be a promising new treatment option for ovarian cancer with minimal side effects.
Research suggests that Vitamin D, along with outdoor activities and diet, may lower breast cancer risk. Studies found significant reductions in breast cancer among individuals exposed to high levels of Vitamin D, particularly during adolescence.
Researchers have found that liver signal STAT3 mediates the effects of brain insulin, which regulates glucose balance and insulin response. This discovery provides a potential therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes, a condition characterized by impaired glucose production in the liver.
A recent study reveals that obese adults tend to inaccurately perceive their weight status, which can lead to poor adherence to public health messages. The findings suggest a link between perception and denial as possible explanations for this phenomenon, highlighting the importance of addressing this issue in obesity research.
Research finds that abdominal fat is a significant contributor to exercise-induced shortness of breath in obese individuals, surpassing the effects of overall weight. The study highlights the importance of targeted weight loss and adapted exercise recommendations for patients with high amounts of abdominal fat.
A meta-analysis of 18 studies found a small association between soy food intake and reduced breast cancer risk, particularly in premenopausal women. However, the data were inconsistent enough that no clear recommendation could be made for using soy supplements to prevent breast cancer.
A new mouse model reveals that moderate alcohol consumption fuels blood vessel growth and encourages cancer tumors, increasing the risk of cancer. The study suggests that blocking VEGF over-production could reduce cancer incidence and provides a potential tool for cancer education and prevention.
The FDA has granted a priority review of REMICADE for the treatment of children with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease. In the REACH trial, nearly 90% of pediatric patients achieved clinical response at week 10 and over half were in clinical remission at one year.
A new study has found significant regional differences in ocean contamination levels among albatrosses, with black-footed albatrosses foraging in the California Current exhibiting higher concentrations of mercury and organochlorine compounds. The findings suggest that these contaminants build up in the tissues of animals high on the fo...
A recent study found that calorie-restricted diets can lower fasting insulin levels, body temperature, and oxidative damage to DNA in humans. After six months on a low-calorie diet, participants showed improvements in heart function compared to those who didn't restrict calories.
Patients with relapsing forms of MS taking Betaseron experienced a sustained 40% reduction in annual relapse rates over 16 years. Long-term treatment showed slower disease progression, with those on therapy reaching EDSS 6.0 after a median time of 13 years.
Researchers discovered a biochemical reaction controlling how the worm feeds, which may help understand feeding disorders. The study suggests that inappropriate behavioral responses to starvation signals could be the cause of feeding disorders in mammals.
A team of scientists has created a simple mathematical model to explain how dogs walk, which could help inform the design of quadruped robots and treatments for hip dysplasia. By comparing computer simulations with real-world observations, they found that dogs' walking patterns can be attributed to a passive stiff-limbed model.
The hare's hind-limb hip-extensor muscles are more exaggerated than the greyhound's, enabling rapid acceleration and direction changes. This muscle difference gives the hare a competitive advantage in races against greyhounds.
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) journal has commemorated the late editor-in-chief Nicholas R. Cozzarelli, who improved the quality and reach of the journal through dynamic initiatives. He also championed open-access publishing, making research papers freely available to researchers and the public.
Researchers discovered capsaicin significantly reduces tumor size and induces apoptosis in human pancreatic cancer cells, with no harm to normal pancreatic tissue. The compound's potential use as a novel agent for prevention and treatment of pancreatic cancer is being explored.
Fat cells surrounding coronary arteries release pro-inflammatory proteins and hormones that regulate inflammation, blood pressure, and insulin activity. These epicardial adipocytes also induce angiogenesis, a process that contributes to the development of atherosclerosis.
A new IOM report emphasizes the significant impact of sleep disorders on public health, citing links to cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute supports research and education initiatives to address these issues.