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Science News for January 10, 2007


Penn researchers demonstrate ability of new therapy to treat severely elevated cholesterol levels

Researchers at Penn School of Medicine have shown a 51% reduction in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. The new therapy, which targets the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, also decreased total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 10, 2007

Wheat can fatally starve insect predators

A newly identified wheat gene produces proteins that bind to the stomach lining of Hessian fly larvae, causing them to starve. The gene's role in creating resistance to Hessian flies was a surprise to researchers, who found that it triggers a localized defense response that reduces energy costs for the plant.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMolecular Plant Pathology·DateJan 10, 2007

Delay in use of nevirapine-based AIDS treatment can improve outcomes

A new study suggests that delaying the use of nevirapine-containing antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least six months after labor can improve treatment outcomes among HIV-infected women. The study found that women who started ART within six months of giving birth had a higher rate of treatment failure compared to those who delayed t...

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 10, 2007

A beneficial suicide

Researchers discovered that neutrophils can form web-like structures called NETs outside cells, composed of nucleic acid and enzymes that catch bacteria and kill them. This process is equally effective as devouring bacteria, showcasing the neutrophil's role in defense even after death.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 10, 2007

Response to anti-HIV therapy improved if treatment begins six months after preventive regimen

Researchers found that starting HIV treatment at least six months after a single dose of nevirapine during labor improves response rates. Women who started treatment sooner had reduced effectiveness of ART, while those delayed had comparable outcomes to placebo group.

We're sorry this is late; we really meant to post it sooner

Research by Dr. Piers Steel reveals that perfectionism is not the root cause of procrastination, but rather a lack of confidence and expectancy. The study estimates that 15-20% of the population are procrastinators, with costs extending beyond poor work performance to financial and health implications. Steel's Temporal Motivational The...

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateJan 10, 2007

Beavers helping frogs, toads survive

A University of Alberta study shows that beaver dams create suitable breeding habitats for frogs and toads, with approximately 5,000 species recorded at 54 beaver ponds. The beavers' presence enhances the development and growth rates of frog and toad larvae.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 10, 2007

Physicians need to be advocates for prisoners' health

Inadequate treatment of mental illness and addiction in the community contributes to rising incarceration rates. Effective therapy like mental health services and substance abuse programs can reduce recidivism. Physicians are urged to campaign for humane treatment alternatives.

SourceLifespan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 10, 2007

Weight concerns more impairing for those with Body dysmorphic disorder

Researchers at Bradley Hospital and Brown Medical School found that individuals with BDD who have weight concerns experience more overall areas of body image concern, poorer social functioning, and higher levels of comorbidity. Weight-related preoccupations in BDD sufferers are associated with even higher levels of distress and impairm...

SourceLifespan·JournalEating Behaviors·DateJan 10, 2007