Water and lava, but -- curiously -- no explosion
Land-based lava pillars in Iceland may have formed without explosion due to slow-moving lava interacting with water in a 'kinder' manner, suggesting new insights into volcanic risk assessment.
University at Buffalo
Babies born at 37 and 38 weeks are at higher risk for adverse health outcomes
A study published by University at Buffalo found that early-term infants (born at 37-38 weeks) are more likely to experience low blood sugar, difficulty breathing, or require antibiotics, necessitating NICU admission. The risk is further increased if born via cesarean section.
How 'bad' cholesterol causes atherosclerosis in humans: Stem cells play a key role
Research reveals that high 'bad' cholesterol levels stimulate production of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells, which promote inflammation and atherosclerosis. The study opens up a potential new approach to preventing heart attack and stroke by focusing on interactions between cholesterol and these cells.
Novel treatment for gonorrhea acts like a 'live vaccine,' prevents reinfection, animal study shows
Researchers have developed a novel treatment for gonorrhea that works like a live vaccine, reversing immunosuppression and preventing reinfection. The treatment, administered intravaginally, uses microsphere technology to stimulate an immune response against the bacterium.
First proteomic analysis of birth defect demonstrates power of a new technique
Researchers used a new technique to analyze proteins in an animal model of the rare birth defect, finding hundreds of changes and shedding light on cell death mechanisms. The study provides insights into factors causing SLOS and could be applied to other diseases.
Why are some corals flourishing in a time of global warming?
A new study investigates why gorgonian corals, which can form a 'canopy' over reefs, appear to be proliferating in certain places. Preliminary data suggests that gorgonian coral density has been increasing on shallow reefs surrounding St. John, even as stony corals have declined.
Study: Overweight and obese women are equally capable of the impulse control that lean women exhibit
Research shows that behavioral interventions improving delay of gratification can work equally well with overweight and obese women as with lean women. When participants mentally simulated future events, they reduced delay discounting and displayed fewer differences between groups.
Study finds increased menthol cigarette use among young people
A new study on mentholated cigarette use in the U.S. reveals an increase in menthol cigarette smoking among young adults and adolescents, with youth heavy consumers of mentholated cigarettes. The study also shows that non-menthol smoking rates have decreased among all age groups.
Genomic study: Why children in remission from rheumatoid arthritis experience recurrences
A new genomic characterization of remission in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis patients reveals that their immune systems remain perturbed even during symptom-free periods. The study highlights the importance of HNF4a as a master switch regulating therapeutic response, and its potential to inform personalized treatment strategies.
Gene regulator is key to healthy retinal development and good vision in adulthood
Researchers discovered that horizontal cells, processing visual information, are crucial for maintaining photoreceptor cell integrity. Without Onecut1, the number of photoreceptors decreases, leading to potential retinal degradation and diseases like retinitis pigmentosa.
From harmless colonizers to virulent pathogens: UB microbiologists identify what triggers disease
Researchers found that certain stimuli, such as flu infection, fever and stress hormone release, trigger bacteria to leave biofilms in the nose and enter sterile organs, revealing increased virulence. Understanding this mechanism could lead to ways to block the transition to disease.
Tiny, brightly shining silicon crystals could be safe for deep-tissue imaging
A new study found that tiny silicon crystals caused no health problems in monkeys three months after large doses were injected. The crystals, known as quantum dots, are promising for diagnostic imaging in humans due to their ability to absorb and emit light in the near-infrared spectrum.
Obesity and asthma: Study finds a link in the genes
A new study found that morbidly obese patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery experienced a decrease in the activity of genes tied to asthma, suggesting a potential link between obesity and asthma. The study also found higher concentrations of inflammatory compounds in obese individuals.
Females respond better to stress because of estrogen, UB animal study finds
Researchers at University at Buffalo found that estrogen protects female stress resilience, but damages male working memory. The study, published in Molecular Psychiatry, suggests that estrogen hormone produced in the brain may be responsible for this difference.
Scientists turn to the streets for help in monitoring waterways
A crowdsourcing project called CrowdHydrology is expanding to four states, asking citizens to monitor stream levels by texting data to researchers. The project helps track the flow of water through a broad region while engaging the public in science that matters daily.
Dangerous strains of E. coli may linger longer in water than benign counterparts, study finds
Research reveals that E. coli strains producing Shiga toxin persist longer in lake water than their non-toxin-producing counterparts, posing a health risk to swimmers.
Preventing 'traffic jams' in brain cells
A study by University at Buffalo researchers has identified a novel function of the protein presenilin in controlling the speed of molecular motors along neuronal highways. This regulation may prevent deadly blockages in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, offering hope for new treatments.
Emotional response to climate change influences whether we seek or avoid further information
A recent study found that people with negative feelings towards climate change actively seek out more information, while those with positive emotions tend to avoid it. The researchers suggest that improving risk communication about climate change could benefit from approaches such as arousing curiosity and promoting optimism.
Passenger car drivers are more likely to die in crashes with SUVs, regardless of crash ratings
Researchers found that passenger car drivers are nearly 10 times more likely to die in head-on crashes with SUVs, even if the SUV has a better safety rating. The study also showed that passengers in smaller vehicles face higher death rates in frontal crashes.
Solar panels as inexpensive as paint? It's possible due to research at UB, elsewhere
Researchers at UB have made significant breakthroughs in developing photovoltaic cells that produce more power and cost less to manufacture. These devices use organic materials and plasmonic-enhanced technology to increase efficiency. The team aims to make solar panels as affordable as paint, paving the way for widespread adoption.
Carnivorous plant throws out 'junk' DNA
The Utricularia gibba genome, smallest sequenced from a complex plant, contradicts the notion that vast quantities of noncoding DNA are crucial for complex life. The bladderwort has purged most of its genetic material, including noncoding 'junk' DNA, while maintaining a functional set of genes similar to those of other plant species.
Breast milk protein complex helps reverse antibiotic resistance
Researchers at University at Buffalo have found a breast milk protein complex, HAMLET, that can help restore sensitivity to antibiotics in drug-resistant bacteria. The study showed that HAMLET can lower the dose of antibiotics needed by a factor of eight or more, making it a promising treatment option for superbugs like MRSA.
Hitting 'reset' in protein synthesis restores myelination
Researchers at UB's Hunter James Kelly Research Institute have found that reducing a protein called Gadd34 can improve nerve and muscle function in patients with CMT neuropathies. By leaving protein synthesis partially off, they were able to restore myelination, potentially leading to new treatments for other misfolded protein diseases.
Multiple sclerosis research: The thalamus moves into the spotlight
Researchers have found that atrophy of the thalamus is a key predictor of clinically definite multiple sclerosis (MS) in patients. Thalamic atrophy can help identify patients at risk for developing MS, allowing clinicians to diagnose earlier and monitor disease progression.
High-carb intake in infancy has lifelong effects, UB study finds
A University at Buffalo study suggests that high-carbohydrate diets in infancy may lead to increased weight gain and obesity in later life. Researchers found that even moderate caloric restriction could not reverse the programming effect.
MS patients did not benefit from CCSVI intervention
A controlled clinical trial found that interventional endovascular therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS) does not improve patient outcomes. The treatment was safe but made symptoms worse in some cases. The study's findings lead to caution against the general acceptance of this invasive procedure for MS patients.
Why a hereditary anemia is caused by genetic mutation in mechanically sensitive ion channel
Researchers identified a genetic mutation that alters the kinetics of an ion channel in red blood cells, leading to anemia. The defect causes the channel to stay open too long, causing an ion leak and affecting the cell's volume regulation.
Postmenopausal women who smoked are more likely to lose teeth due to periodontal disease
A recent study found that postmenopausal women who smoked had significantly higher odds of experiencing tooth loss due to periodontal disease. The researchers also discovered that the more women smoked, the greater their risk of losing teeth as a result of periodontal disease.
Forget about leprechauns, engineers are catching rainbows
Researchers developed a hyperbolic metamaterial waveguide to catch a 'rainbow' of wavelengths, halting and absorbing each frequency of light. This advancement could lead to new technologies in electronics, solar panels, and stealth coating materials.
Study finds it actually is better (and healthier) to give than to receive
Researchers found that providing tangible assistance to others significantly reduced mortality rates among the helpers, buffering the negative effects of stress. The study's findings contradict previous research, which failed to establish similar benefits for recipients of social support.
Indoor air puts Chinese women nonsmokers at risk
A University at Buffalo study found that indoor air pollution contributes significantly to lung cancer risk in Chinese women, despite low smoking rates. The research measured particulate matter levels inside homes and linked them to lung cancer incidence, highlighting the need for improved ventilation systems and public education.
Just add water: How scientists are using silicon to produce hydrogen on demand
Scientists at the University at Buffalo have created a new method to produce hydrogen using silicon particles and water. This reaction produces hydrogen nearly instantaneously without requiring light, heat or electricity, offering a potential source of energy for fuel cells.
Stem cell research helps to identify origins of schizophrenia
Researchers found that gestational brain changes cause behavioral problems later in life, similar to the human disease. The UB study proposes a genomic explanation for schizophrenia, identifying the Integrative Nuclear FGFR 1 Signaling pathway as a central intersection point.
Injured coral? Expect less sex
Research found that injured coral colonies in The Bahamas still produced low numbers of eggs four years after damage, and sperm-producing factories were also scarce. This suggests that damaged corals may divert resources away from reproduction towards growth and injury repair.
SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology·DateDec 17, 2012
How does a volcanic crater grow? Grab some TNT and find out
A University at Buffalo study examines maar craters, finding that their shape and ejecting distance are more accurate measures of an eruption's force. The findings could help scientists estimate the size of future volcano eruptions.
Level up: Study reveals keys to gamer loyalty
Online role-playing game developers can increase player loyalty by providing gamers with more opportunities for social interaction, collaboration, and character ownership. The study found that strategies such as cooperative play and guilds built loyalty and social identity among players.
New form of brain plasticity: Study shows how social isolation disrupts myelin production
Research shows socially isolated animals produce less myelin in the prefrontal cortex, a region responsible for emotional and cognitive behavior. The study also found that social isolation disrupts oligodendrocyte cell development, leading to changes in gene transcription.
A protein’s role in helping cells repair DNA damage
Researchers found that TFIIB halts general transcription when DNA damage occurs, enabling cells to prioritize repair and support p53's tumor-suppressing functions. This process allows p53 to bypass the need for TFIIB phosphorylation, activating its target genes vital for DNA damage response.
Lactation protein suppresses tumors and metastasis in breast cancer
A recent study published in Nature Cell Biology has identified Elf5, a protein necessary for lactation, as a key player in suppressing breast cancer tumors and metastasis. The research found that when Elf5 is absent or low, epithelial cells become more like stem cells, leading to cancer growth and spread.
Obese teen boys have up to 50 percent less testosterone than lean boys, UB study finds
A University at Buffalo study found that obese teenage males have up to 50% less total testosterone than their lean peers, increasing their potential for infertility as adults. The researchers believe that lifestyle changes and weight loss may help restore testosterone levels in obese teen males.
The brief but violent life of monogenetic volcanoes
A new model provides insight into the brief but violent lives of monogenetic volcanoes, shedding light on their explosive mechanisms. The research proposes that explosions occur simultaneously over a range of depths, contradicting previous theories.
Nanoparticles glow through thick layer of tissue
Researchers created photoluminescent nanoparticles that shine clearly through over 3 centimeters of biological tissue. The particles, made with calcium-fluoride shells and thulium core, provide high-contrast imaging without adverse effects.
Discovery of essential genes for drug-resistant bacteria reveals new, high-value drug targets
Researchers at University at Buffalo have discovered a novel set of genes essential for the growth of potentially lethal, drug-resistant bacteria A. baumannii. The study reveals multiple new drug targets for this human infection and suggests that laboratory conditions may not be ideal for identifying antimicrobial drug targets.
How fast can ice sheets respond to climate change?
Scientists found that glaciers on Baffin Island expanded quickly during a short-lived cold snap about 8,200 years ago, providing insight into ice sheets' response to past climate change. This discovery suggests that ice sheets may react rapidly to temperature shifts, raising concerns for future climate change.
Ancient, bottom-dwelling critter proves: Newer isn't always better
Rhabdopleurids, tiny bottom-dwelling critters, have survived for over 500 million years by staying relatively unchanged. They predate ancient pelagic graptolites that went extinct 350 million years ago, highlighting the value of conservative evolution.
Favorite TV reruns may have restorative powers, says UB researcher
Watching a favorite TV show taps into surrogate relationships people form with characters, restoring mental resources and willpower. This activity allows for effortless control without exerting mental energy, leading to a restorative effect.
World's largest tobacco use study: Tobacco control remains major challenge
A massive international survey of tobacco use in 3 billion individuals reveals the ongoing threat of tobacco, with industry manipulation and government complicity hindering effective control. The study emphasizes the need for increased resources to implement tobacco control strategies and counter pro-tobacco forces.
In fly DNA, the footprint of a fly virus
Scientists discovered virus-like genes in the DNA of a commonly studied fruit fly, which could enable research on whether animals hijack viral genes as an anti-viral defense. The study found that several types of fruit flies harbored genes similar to those that code for the sigma virus, a fly virus in the same family as rabies.
Study links alcohol/energy drink mixes with casual, risky sex
A study from the University at Buffalo's Research Institute on Addictions found a link between consuming caffeinated energy drinks mixed with alcohol and having casual -- often risky -- sex among college-age adults. The study suggests that mixing energy drinks with alcohol can lead to unintentional overdrinking, increasing the risk of ...
Man-made pores mimic important features of natural pores
A research team at University at Buffalo has created synthetic pores inspired by nature, which selectively allow potassium ions and water to pass through while restricting other substances. The discovery paves the way for new technologies in water purification, tumor treatment, and disease regulation.