Two UM students, Rachel Silverstein and Nitzan Soffer, receive prestigious NSF fellowships for their doctoral work on coral reefs. The lab is led by Dr. Andrew Baker, a pioneer in developing techniques to enhance coral thermal tolerance.
A consortium of scientists including CSHL's Gregory J. Hannon report findings about mammalian evolution gleaned from comparative study of small-RNA function in platypus, revealing unique characteristics such as egg-laying and venom delivery. The platypus genome also shows conserved small-RNA roles across species.
The Center for Translational Injury Research will focus on new medical technologies to improve diagnosis, care, and survival of trauma victims. Researchers aim to tackle pressing issues like brain injuries, bleeding patients, and regenerative medicine in skin replacement therapy.
The U.S. Geological Survey is investigating the cause of thousands of bat deaths in the northeastern US, with most affected species showing signs of emaciation and poor body condition. Environmental samples have been collected to determine if toxicants or secondary microbial pathogens are contributing to the illness.
Researchers argue that male circumcision and reducing multiple sexual partners are more effective HIV prevention strategies than condom promotion, HIV testing, and other approaches. Studies have shown significant reductions in HIV risk with these interventions, particularly in west Africa and Uganda.
A new study emphasizes that six-month short-interval follow-up examinations can accurately detect cancers in patients with 'probably benign' breast lesions, resulting in high sensitivity. This approach avoids unnecessary biopsies and ensures timely cancer detection.
The updated GREET model allows researchers to simulate new fuel pathways, including ethanol from Brazilian sugarcane and bio-butanol production. The model also evaluates the energy consumption required for producing aluminum in sport utility vehicles.
Researchers identified pigment-binding protein CP29 as a valve regulating excess solar energy during photosynthesis. The study suggests that ambient pH levels can control the dimmer switch's opening and closing, with implications for designing artificial photosynthesis systems.
The study found that long-term etanercept therapy resulted in significant improvement in joint symptoms, functional ability, and pain reduction for children with JRA. The treatment demonstrated safety comparable to other rheumatic disorders, offering hope for a better quality of life as adults.
A study published in INFORMS journal Interfaces found that US polar bear research is flawed due to inadequate forecasting methodologies. The researchers concluded that the studies do not adequately support assumptions about sea ice changes and polar bears' ability to adapt, making it difficult to justify listing the species as endangered.
A national study of Asian adults found that strong ties to ethnicity can both protect against and worsen the negative effects of racism. For those born in the US, a strong ethnic identity in their 40s can counteract discrimination's impact, while those above 50 may experience increased distress due to stress management.
A study published in Biological Psychiatry used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to match treatments for patients with generalized anxiety disorder. The researchers found that approximately two-thirds of patients experienced relief from their anxiety symptoms after treatment.
Researchers at the University of Western Ontario have received $10.5 million in funding to study a protein that may control regeneration in spinal cord injuries. The discovery aims to understand how scar tissue inhibits nerve growth and develop effective treatments for the estimated 12,000 annual spinal cord injuries in Canada and the US.
A study published in The Lancet found that free antiretroviral therapy in Malawi led to a significant reduction in adult mortality, particularly among adults aged 15-59 years. Mortality rates declined by 10% overall, with an even greater drop of 35% observed in areas near the main road where pre-ART mortality was highest.
The American Society of Hematology has selected 15 minority medical students for its 2008 Minority Medical Student Award Program. The program provides research mentorship, career development support, and travel stipends to attend medical meetings.
A University of Missouri scientist discovered a mechanism in bread mold that 'silences' unmatched genes during meiosis, protecting the organism from genetic abnormalities. This process, known as MSUD, could have applications in pharmaceuticals and agriculture by precisely targeting unwanted genes.
A new study reveals that diet and lifestyle are not the only factors influencing blood protein levels, with genetics playing a significant role. The study identified variations in genes associated with key proteins like HDL cholesterol and interleukins, which play roles in inflammatory diseases.
The US FDA has seen an 800% increase in new counterfeit cases between 2000 and 2006. Antimalarials are a particular target for counterfeiters, flooding the market in many Asian countries. Collaborative approaches involving governments, industries, and international organizations can help combat counterfeiting.
A novel gas sensor system based on diffusion principle enables large-scale monitoring of CO2 concentrations over areas. The system replaces multiple sensors, reducing costs and improving data accuracy for environmental remediation, landfill monitoring, and indoor air quality.
Magnet Lab researchers develop two new biosensors to monitor cellular dynamics and expand optical microscopy capabilities. The new technique enables the observation of two dynamic processes in a single cell for longer periods, speeding up experiments and advancing tumor and developmental biology research.
Researchers found that darapladib safely and effectively lowers Lp-PLA2 activity, an enzyme associated with inflammation and increased risk for heart attack and stroke. The drug may reduce plaque inflammation and lower rates of clot formation among patients with coronary heart disease.
The American Pain Society has expanded its low back guideline to include recommendations on surgery and interventional treatments for chronic pain. The new guidelines suggest that epidural stenosis injections may be an option for short-term pain relief, while other procedures have limited evidence supporting their benefits.
A Northwestern University study has discovered that multicellular organisms respond to stress in an integrated manner, with two specialized neurons controlling the response of individual cells. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that cells within a multicellular organism respond individually to stress conditions.
Researchers used a neutral model to predict fish diversity in the Mississippi-Missouri River System, demonstrating its potential for analyzing complex systems. The approach, which assumes functional equivalence among species, provides new insights into biodiversity patterns and their relationship with environmental change.
Research using a rat model of intrauterine growth retardation found reduced Pdx1 expression in pancreatic beta-cells throughout life following IUGR. The molecular mechanisms affecting Pdx1 expression were reversible in the fetus and after birth, but irreversible in adulthood, providing new insight into diabetes development.
Researchers found that using a cane significantly reduced the peak knee adduction moment, alleviating destructive load on affected knees. The study suggests that canes may be an effective short-term solution for knee OA patients.
Researchers found that slow fetal growth is linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in adulthood. They also identified a new gene mutation associated with sudden cardiac death in humans. The study used rat models and human tissue samples to understand the mechanisms behind these diseases.
A recent study found that walking therapy for stroke survivors is significantly more effective when conducted by a physical therapist, improving walking speed and symmetry. Human-assisted interventions allow for patient error and harder work, leading to better outcomes.
The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) has installed a new IBM supercomputer called Bluefire, which will accelerate research into climate change and severe weather events. The system, with a peak speed of over 76 teraflops, is expected to rank among the world's top 25 most powerful computers.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a method to create specific rare isotopes for scientific research, opening doors to new technologies. This capability promises to advance fields like biomedicine, international security, and nuclear energy.
A study using fMRI scans found that people prioritize equity over efficiency in allocating donations, with the brain responding differently to both. The insula region was activated by changes in equity, while the putamen responded to efficiency, with the caudate integrating both factors after a decision was made.
The Monte Verde site in southern Chile provides conclusive evidence of the earliest known human settlement in the Americas, dating back to 14,220 years ago. The discovery supports the theory that early migrants followed the Pacific Coast and confirms the peopling of the Americas was a slower process than previously thought.
Researchers have mapped nucleosome organization along genes in Drosophila melanogaster, revealing a critical stop sign for transcription. This discovery highlights the importance of nucleosomes in regulating gene expression and has implications for developing effective anti-viral drugs against HIV.
Foldit, a computer game, harnesses players' skills to predict protein folding, a crucial step in understanding biological mysteries. Researchers aim to identify 'protein-folding prodigies' who can speed up the process and potentially find cures for diseases like HIV.
Researchers found that antidepressant medications increased natural killer cell activity in HIV-infected women with and without depression. The study suggests a potential link between antidepressant treatment and improved innate immunity, which could delay HIV disease progression.
A phase III pivotal study showed VYVANSE significantly improved ADHD symptoms in adults, including inattention and hyperactivity. The medication provided a 43% reduction in ADHD Rating Scale (ADHD-RS-IV) scores and was associated with a 60% improvement rate on the Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement (CGI-I) scale.
Research presented at the American Pain Society annual meeting found that less than 3% of patients with no history of drug abuse who are prescribed opioids for chronic pain will show signs of possible drug abuse or dependence. Most chronic pain patients do not rely on drugs as a sole solution, and multi-faceted treatment involving phys...
Researchers developed a device to measure complex ultrashort light pulses in space and time at the focus of lenses, addressing distortions caused by optical components. The SEA TADPOLE system uses interferometry to determine pulse shape and intensity changes in space and time, enabling accurate correction for aberrations.
A study found that young Australian women would accept age-based chlamydia screening, but prefer it be offered universally, rather than based on their sexual history. The researchers suggest that detailed sexual history should not be required before testing women for chlamydia to improve screening rates and reduce stigma.
The American Society for Neural Therapy and Repair (ASNTR) has awarded neuroscientist Paul M. Carvey for his groundbreaking research on Parkinson's Disease, while recognizing patient advocate Joan Samuelson for her tireless advocacy efforts.
A study published in BMC Psychiatry suggests a link between dopamine activity and lack of motivation in patients with schizophrenia. The research found that 11 out of 18 patients showed abnormal response to incentives, indicating an underlying brain chemical imbalance.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has announced over $298 million in funding for 764 health research projects across Canada. The funded research will focus on addressing important health issues like cancer, heart disease, and HIV/AIDS.
A survey of Minnesota gardeners found that 78% preferred informal advice from friends and neighbors over university extension services. University information was viewed as higher quality but lacked convenient online access, posing a challenge to universities and arboreta.
The platypus genome provides a comprehensive understanding of the animal's mix of features, including duck-billed snout, venomous spur, and electroreceptors. The analysis compares the platypus genome with other mammals and birds, revealing conserved genes and traits, as well as unique characteristics such as odor receptor expansion.
The study found that 95% of participants completed the program, linking them to medical care for a year after release. This continuity of care improved health outcomes, reduced costs, and may have reduced HIV transmission. Researchers credited the use of professional social workers with the program's success.
Researchers from Rostock have developed a feasible process for the on-demand release of hydrogen, generating it at room temperature from formic acid. The use of formic acid allows the advantages of established hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell technology to be combined with those of liquid fuels.
Climate scientists warn that reducing sulphur dioxide emissions from coal burning could lead to increased sea surface temperatures in the tropical north Atlantic, causing droughts in the Amazon rainforest. The study estimates a heightened risk of drought every other year by 2025 and nine out of ten years by 2060.
Research found obesity increases dementia risk by 80%, while being underweight also poses a significant threat. The study, published in Obesity Reviews, analyzed data from over 37,000 people and estimated that 12% of dementia risk can be attributed to obesity.
Researchers found that black bears acquire behavior to conflict with humans through social learning and isolation, challenging the assumption that mother bears teach their cubs. The study indicates that 56% of mothers did not share behavioral habits with their offspring.
The American Society of Nephrology emphasizes the importance of medical research in improving healthcare and reducing costs. Research advancements have led to cost-effective solutions such as vaccines and disease treatments, benefiting human lives and the economy.
A new study by National Geographic Society reveals surprising differences in environmentally friendly actions among consumers worldwide. Consumers in India and Brazil topped the ranking, while US consumers scored lowest, highlighting the importance of individual consumer behavior in environmental sustainability.
A new study by NCAR and Ohio State University found that climate models consistently overstate Antarctic warming, but still project significant sea-level rise due to melting ice sheets. The researchers suggest that warmer temperatures could slow down or speed up sea-level rise depending on future temperature increases.
Researchers have developed a radial flow bioreactor system using embryonic porcine liver cells and HGF, showing potential for a fully functional artificial liver. The system promotes cell differentiation and survival, creating organoids with bile duct-like structures.
A new study suggests that color Doppler ultrasound is the preferred imaging modality for diagnosing suspected acute appendicitis in adults, with a 97% specificity rate and 74% sensitivity rate. The test's advantages include lack of radiation exposure and lower cost compared to CT scans.
Research led by Dr. Yi-Jia Lou suggests that LTC4 synthesis enzymes contribute to liver injury in a rat FHF model, leading to accumulation of cys-LTs. The study's findings imply further investigation into the expression and activity of these enzymes in managing viral hepatitis patients.
The University of Southern California will establish a five-story laboratory building with 53,000 assignable square feet to carry out stem cell research in three categories. The new facility will facilitate basic and clinical research, accelerating the pace of research toward clinical application and patient care.
A University of Pittsburgh School Medicine study identified a key molecule, c-Kit, that plays a central role in the allergic response. Targeting this element could lead to more effective drugs for treating asthma and allergies.
The University of California, San Francisco has received a $34.9 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to construct a regenerative medicine building on its campus. The facility will house 25 principal investigators and their teams at full capacity, driving the cross-pollination of scientific ideas.
IGF-I exerts mitochondrial protection in experimental cirrhosis, reducing caspase activation and increasing ATP production. IGF-I supplementation shows beneficial effects on liver function and fibrosis in animal models.
Researchers demonstrate that a simple method using river network geometry and rainfall data can accurately predict fish species diversity patterns in the Mississippi-Missouri basin. The model, which uses just four parameters, captures complex biodiversity patterns without referencing individual fish species.