Imagining the Physics of George R.R. Martin’s Fictional Universe

In independent research in the American Journal of Physics, Ian Tregillis and George R.R. Martin derive a formula for viral behavior in the Wild Cards, a science fiction series written by a collection of authors about an alien virus called the Wild Card that mutates human DNA. The formula he derived is a Lagrangian formulation, which considers the different ways a system can evolve. It’s also a fundamental physics principle, which also makes the fictional example a powerful teaching tool.

Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine Receive $3.3 Million Grant from NIH to Study Rare Kidney Disease

 Wake Forest University School of Medicine has been awarded a $3.3 million grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health, to study and develop a treatment for primary hyperoxaluria (PH). This rare genetic disorder causes kidney stones and other serious health problems.

Melanoma metastasis: unveiling the ferroptosis pathway in bone

A recent study has uncovered the molecular mechanisms behind osteocyte death in melanoma bone metastasis, revealing that ferroptosis—an iron-dependent form of cell death—plays a central role in the destruction of bone cells. The research identifies the HIF1α-HMOX1 axis as a critical pathway that induces excessive autophagy and iron overload, leading to osteocyte demise.

Metronomic chemotherapy: a promising approach for pediatric neuroblastoma

Metronomic chemotherapy (MC) is emerging as a groundbreaking treatment for pediatric neuroblastoma, offering a more accessible and manageable option for children with high-risk and relapsed/refractory forms of the disease. This innovative approach could revolutionize care, particularly in low-resource settings where traditional treatments are often out of reach. A recent comprehensive review explores the evolution, clinical applications, and prospects of MC, shedding light on its potential to improve outcomes while reducing toxicity.

FAU Secures $21M Promise Neighborhoods Grant for Broward UP Underserved Communities

South Florida faces significant challenges, including more than 6,000 homeless children in Broward County and issues like absenteeism, mental health struggles, and limited early learning programs. These factors hinder social mobility and education. To address these issues, FAU received a $21 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Promise Neighborhoods program. The “Broward Unlimited Potential Promise Neighborhood” (Broward UP) initiative aims to provide children with access to quality education and strong community support, ensuring successful transitions to college or careers.

Sentinel skies: tracking wetland health in the clouds

Understanding how alpine wetlands are degrading is crucial for evaluating the full impact of climate change on these fragile ecosystems. In a significant scientific advancement, researchers have introduced alpine wetlands (AW-CCD)—a pioneering algorithm designed to monitor and characterize the complex, multi-scenario degradation of alpine wetlands using Landsat time series data.

A “Quad-Demic” Warning: Symptoms of Viral Influenza, COVID-19, Norovirus, and RSV Can Also Be Signs of Potential Heart Complications

Mount Sinai cardiologists warn about the risk of heart problems during surge of winter viruses for American Heart Month in February