A new study by UC Irvine entomologist Bob Reed has uncovered the secrets behind butterfly wing patterns. The research found that genes responsible for making insect eye pigments also produce red wing patterns in Heliconius butterflies, shedding light on the genetic causes of variation in wing patterns across different regions.
Researchers at the University of Washington have devised a theory that links uncertainty in climate change with climate sensitivity. The theory, published in Science, provides a yardstick for testing climate models and shows that small uncertainties can be amplified into large ones.
Researchers developed a new virotherapeutic targeting cancer cells expressing E2F and EGFR proteins, showing antitumor effects in mice and rabbits. The virus demonstrated high selectivity for cancer cells in tumor-bearing rabbits and human tissue samples.
A study by Professor Brian Wynne found that ordinary people worry about the burden of genetic testing, its impact on families, social status, and employment opportunities. The public is concerned that individualized healthcare could limit access to services like insurance, medical coverage, and mortgages.
Neurobiologist Rachel Wilson has been awarded the 2007 International Grand Prize in Neurobiology for decoding a pattern of impulses from receptor neurons to identify an odor. Her research reveals complexities in how odors are processed by the brain, using genetic tools and measurements of neural activity in living flies.
Researchers at Dr. Liu et al. successfully differentiated primary pancreatic ductal epithelial cells into insulin-producing cells using the transfection of PDX-1, a promising approach to enhance islet cell output and meet clinical needs. This study suggests a future for many diabetic patients who need islets transplantation.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have discovered a new molecular target that may help develop drugs to reduce fat transport in adipocytes and prevent obesity. Knocking out a specific cell receptor called LRP1 has been shown to decrease fat storage and weight gain in genetically altered mice.
The Penn Center for the Integration of Genetic Healthcare Technology will examine the certainty or uncertainty of results from genetic testing. Team members will conduct original research on genetic technologies and develop tools to educate consumers, professionals, policy makers, and insurers.
JDRF is partnering with Osiris Therapeutics to support a Phase II clinical trial using Prochymal, an immunomodulatory cell therapy product, to preserve and regenerate insulin-producing cells in patients newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The proposed research presents a novel approach for developing a immunomodulatory cellular therapy.
Researchers found that Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) actually speeds up decision-making in Parkinson's patients, contrary to expectations. The study suggests that DBS affects the brain's ability to deliberate on complicated decisions by interrupting the 'hold-your-horses' signal.
Patients given human atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) after a heart attack have lower infarct sizes, fewer reperfusion injuries, and better outcomes than control group patients. ANP also increases left ventricle ejection fraction post-heart-attack.
Researchers genetically manipulated nematode worms to be attracted to the same sex, revealing that sexual attraction is derived from a shared nervous system. The study suggests that sexual orientation may be wired in the brain and not solely caused by extra nerve cells.
Genetically obese rats showed lower dopamine D2 receptor levels than lean counterparts. However, restricting food intake increased D2 receptor numbers, partially reversing age-related decline. This finding suggests a link between brain's reward system and food availability in obesity.
Agricultural soil erosion removes more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits, creating carbon sinks equivalent to 1.5% of annual fossil fuel emissions. The study challenges previous assessments that erosion contributes significantly to global warming.
A team of researchers proposes a new hypothesis on human migration from Asia to the Americas, suggesting that ancestors remained isolated in Beringia for 15,000 years before entering the continent. The study's findings contradict previous theories and provide insights into the peopling of the New World.
The researchers will examine four Kansas communities and two Iowa communities to see whether claims that ethanol plants revitalize the towns hold true. They will study local ownership, attitudes towards ethanol plant workers and farmers, and community investment.
A study of psychiatrists and parents found significant differences in perceptions of pediatric ADHD and psychiatric comorbidities. The researchers suggest that improving communication between psychiatrists, parents, and patients can lead to better treatment outcomes for children with complicated ADHD.
Researchers have discovered that treating two or more neglected tropical diseases simultaneously with existing oral drug treatments can be effective and efficient. The treatment approach has the potential to save millions of lives annually, particularly in Africa where nearly 500 million people are at risk for these diseases.
Michael Rosbash, a Brandeis University professor, has been elected as an AAAS Fellow for his distinguished contributions to understanding RNA splicing and circadian rhythms. This year, 471 members have been awarded the honor by AAAS due to their scientifically or socially distinguished efforts.
Researchers propose a new approach to treating psychiatric disorders by focusing on an individual's need for internal balance. Studies suggest that decision-making is linked to maintaining homeostatic balance, which can be disrupted in individuals with addictions and psychiatric disorders.
A recent study by Western psychology graduate student Ben Bowles and professor Stefan Köhler found that the feeling of familiarity during recognition relies on a distinct brain mechanism. This insight sheds light on how memory is wired in the human brain, with implications for understanding memory deficits in neurology, including Alzhe...
Common uterine infections can damage ovaries and affect fertility in cows, similar to the impact on humans with sexually transmitted infections like Chlamydia. Researchers found that bacteria can leave toxins in egg-containing follicles, suppressing oestrogen production and preventing ovulation.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) contributes to vascular diseases by activating VEGFR1, accelerating macrophage migration and plaque progression. The discovery could lead to a potential therapeutic target for medical applications.
Seismologists have recast their understanding of the Earth's inner workings, depicting it as a dynamic and chemically diverse living organism. New research shows that Earth's upper mantle exhibits chemical heterogeneity beyond just temperature and pressure.
EpiVax receives $351,000 from JDRF to develop Epi-13, a novel therapeutic that reduces harmful immune responses and preserves insulin production. The approach uses natural regulatory T cells to induce antigen-specific adaptive tolerance induction.
Researchers present emerging therapies targeting cancer cells, including a small molecule inhibitor of protein kinase D and an oncolytic herpes virus that selectively targets cancer cells without damaging nerves. These treatments offer promising methods for controlling disease and improving patient outcomes.
A new design for a 'lab-on-a-chip' structure enables the sorting of particles using light, achieving higher efficiencies and lower costs than current methodologies. Velocities as high as 28 μm/s were achieved for small spheres with low optical powers.
Researchers discovered that ultraviolet lasers interact with living tissue differently than previously thought, with varying effects on wavelength and pulse duration. The study found that shorter wavelength lasers can cut more precisely and produce less collateral damage than mid-infrared lasers.
Provost George P. Korfiatis receives Firepower Award for his contributions to technology R&D and defense preparedness posture. He has led over 200 major research projects worth $30 million and advised numerous organizations.
Researchers have found an unusual cold spot in the cosmic microwave background that could be caused by a cosmic defect created just after the Big Bang. The discovery provides a potential window into understanding the fundamental nature of elementary particles and forces.
Ten Yale researchers have been named AAAS Fellows in recognition of their distinguished efforts to advance science, including Paul Anastas and Sankar Ghosh. The new fellows will be inducted at the 2008 AAAS Annual Meeting.
The James Webb Space Telescope will utilize the advanced SpaceWire technology to improve communication between its components, allowing for higher data collection rates and enhanced scientific discovery. This enables the telescope to study more of the universe with its 66 million detector pixels.
Researchers have determined the precise picture of cell target for drugs, giving them greater control over treatment. The high-resolution structure of a human G-protein-coupled receptor, such as beta 2-adrenergic receptor, can direct the future design of drugs that precisely bind to specific receptors.
A case report describes an 86-year-old woman who developed acute pancreatitis and cholangitis after her gastrostomy tube migrated into the duodenum. The malpositioned tube caused duodenal obstruction, leading to severe symptoms that improved upon repositioning the tube.
The Yale School of Medicine researchers are studying how cancer cells mend their own chromosomes and DNA after damage caused by radiation and chemotherapy. They hope to create an 'Achilles heel' for cancer cells that would make them more vulnerable to traditional cancer therapies.
Chilean researchers have identified a brain region that plays a role in drug craving in amphetamine-addicted rats. The insular cortex processes information about the body's physiological states and guides behavior, indicating its potential as a target for treating drug addiction.
University of Illinois scientist Karen Chapman-Novakofski conducted a nutritional study in Botswana, revealing that the elderly lack variety in their diet and have limited access to milk, fruits, and vegetables. The research aims to inform policy changes and support healthy eating habits for this vulnerable population.
The report highlights the devastating impact of habitat loss, hunting, and climate change on primates, with 114 species threatened with extinction. The World's 25 Most Endangered Primates list reveals that these animals are crucial to maintaining ecosystem balance, making their survival critical for the health of our planet.
Research by Dr Brendan Kelly found that medical romance novels often feature primary care and emergency settings, with common plot pairings including male doctor with female doctor or nurse. The novels highlight the romantic possibilities of these settings and suggest an urgent need for training programs to include romance education.
Researchers found that erosion acts as a sink for atmospheric carbon, capturing about 1.5% of annual fossil-fuel emissions worldwide. This challenges previous estimates suggesting soil erosion could be a significant source or sink of carbon.
Researchers found that valsartan, an antihypertensive medication, reduces the accumulation of beta-amyloid protein in mouse brains, a key feature of Alzheimer's. The study suggests that treating high blood pressure with certain medications may help prevent or slow the progression of AD.
A retrospective study on Infliximab treatment in IBD patients found it to be effective in inducing rapid clinical response and maintaining long-lasting remission. The study also showed a steroid-sparing effect, reducing the morbidity associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy.
Researchers at Yale University's Stem Cell Center discovered piRNAs, a recently identified class of tiny RNAs, play a crucial role in regulating gene function and stem cell fate. The study found over 13,000 piRNAs in fruit flies, revealing their importance in controlling chromatin and gene expression.
University of Michigan scientists found a significant connection between the lipid PI(3,5)P2 and neuronal health, revealing potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Lowered levels of this signaling molecule lead to massive neurodegeneration in mice.
A new study suggests that the Great Dying 250 million years ago may have been caused by creeping environmental stress from volcanic eruptions and global warming. The research finds that organisms in the deep ocean died first, followed by those on ocean shelves and reefs, supporting a model that attributes the extinction to enormous vol...
Researchers have discovered that combining targeted therapies can be more effective than single drugs, particularly when targeting multiple pathways such as the MAPK and PI3-kinase pathways. This approach may help overcome drug resistance and improve treatment outcomes for various types of cancer, including lung and breast cancer.
A new study found that inhaled corticosteroids can significantly reduce respiratory symptoms and improve lung function in NYC firefighters two years after the World Trade Center collapse. The treatment was found to be effective in preventing asthma-like illnesses and improving quality of life among firefighters.
Scientists at Michigan State University's NSCL created three new isotopes of magnesium and aluminum, exceeding current scientific models' predictions. The findings suggest that variants of everyday elements might exist beyond the known stability limit, sparking excitement in rare isotope research.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital have discovered over a dozen new obesity-related genes by analyzing 49 independent experiments. The team used a comparison approach to identify reliable performers, gaining insights into fundamental importance.
Zebrafish embryos exposed to 11 common pollutants showed distinct gene-expression profiles, allowing researchers to identify individual toxins. The new method offers a potential solution for evaluating developmental toxicity of pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals.
Women with a family history of alcoholism prefer higher levels of sweetness and crave sweet-tasting foods more often than non-smokers. Smokers also exhibit reduced sensitivity to sweet taste, leading to increased food cravings.
A new study finds that daylight saving time (DST) significantly disrupts the human circadian clock's seasonal adjustment. Researchers analyzed sleep patterns of over 55,000 people in Central Europe and found that DST timing fails to adapt, leading to significant disruptions in daily rhythms.
Researchers will investigate barriers to treating ischemic strokes and explore the effectiveness of patient navigators and imaging studies to address disparities in DC hospitals. The projects aim to improve stroke prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for medically underserved communities.
Researchers found that avian influenza viruses can infect children's cells more easily than adults' due to the widespread distribution of sialic acid receptors in children's lower respiratory tract. This may explain why avian H5N1 viruses can infect human upper respiratory tracts despite lacking traditional receptors.
Detailed statistics show that 82% of parents accurately evaluated cigarette smoking, 86% accurately reported alcohol use, and 86% accurately reported marijuana use. However, only 72% accurately reported illicit drug use. Parents can use this knowledge to help themselves cope with teenage substance use.
A study in BMC Medicine critiques university ranking systems for being misleading and invalid, citing discrepancies between top lists from Shanghai and Times Higher Education. The authors argue that such flaws can harm science and education, highlighting the need for global collaboration to standardize data.
New research highlights racial disparities in alcohol treatment completion, with African Americans and Hispanics facing lower enrollment rates in residential programs. Increasing access to intensive services may help reduce these disparities.
A study by NYU researchers reveals that brain regions associated with depression also play a role in generating human optimism. Optimism is linked to enhanced activation in the rostral anterior cingulate and amygdala, areas that show irregularities in depression.
Researchers found that uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) eliminated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in approximately one quarter to one-third of patients. The procedure also reduced the mean apnea-hyponea index, with patients experiencing a more than half reduction in nonbreathing episodes.
A new study found that individuals with a specific GABRA2 genotype may have fewer drinking days and better treatment response to psychotherapy. The findings suggest that genetic information could be used to match patients with the most effective treatments.