The tiny tongue of a fruit fly could provide big answers to questions about human eating habits, possibly even leading to new ways to treat obesity, according to a new study.
An inexpensive, fast accurate DNA test that reveals a person’s risk of developing certain diseases is expected to become a reality, thanks to new technology.
Continue reading about Low-cost DNA test to pinpoint risk of inherited diseases
Scientists have determined that a new instrument known as PIB-PET is effective in detecting deposits of amyloid-beta protein plaques in the brains of living people, and that these deposits are predictive of who will develop Alzheimer’s disease.
Continue reading about Neuroimaging study may pave way for effective Alzheimer’s treatments
A new study describes a new method that assesses the impact and cost-effectiveness of a range of vaccination options. The model was applied to the 2009 influenza H1N1 outbreak and predicted accurately in real-time when the epidemic would peak and who should be prioritized for vaccination.
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A dramatic 3D Mars view based on terrain modeling from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter data shows “highs and lows” of Mojave Crater.
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If you see a student dozing in the library or a co-worker catching 40 winks in her cubicle, don’t roll your eyes. New research shows that an hour’s nap can dramatically boost and restore your brain power. Indeed, the findings suggest that a biphasic sleep schedule not only refreshes the mind, but can make you [...]
Continue reading about Midday nap markedly boosts the brain’s learning capacity
Morphologically distinct types are often found within species, and biologists have speculated that these “morphs” could be the raw material for speciation. What were once different types of individuals within the same population could eventually evolve into separate species. A new study supports this idea.
Continue reading about Evolutionary game of rock-paper-scissors may lead to new species
A common gene variant associated with a form of the irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation has been identified. The investigators describe finding that variations affecting a protein that may help control the heart’s electrical activity appear to increase the risk of what is called lone atrial fibrillation, a type seen in younger individuals with no [...]
Continue reading about Common gene variant may increase risk for a type of cardiac arrhythmia
Researchers are studying the main contributing mosquito species to malaria transmission in Africa. They are characterizing genes specific to mosquito blood cells. The researchers were able to identify genes in the blood cells whose expression changed with malaria infection. This could be used for disease control, ultimately. On a more basic level, the researchers are [...]
Continue reading about Mosquito genes yield secrets to how they survive malaria-causing parasite
High blood pressure appears to predict the progression to dementia in older adults with impaired executive functions (ability to organize thoughts and make decisions) but not in those with memory dysfunction, according to a new study.