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University of California - Davis


UC Davis research shows that newly discovered drug reduces heart enlargement

Researchers at UC Davis have discovered a new class of drugs that can reduce heart swelling and reverse heart failure. The study, led by cardiologist Nipavan Chiamvimonvat and entomologist Bruce Hammock, found that the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase plays a key role in the development of cardiac hypertrophy.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2009

New tool enables powerful data analysis

A new algorithm developed by scientists at University of California, Davis, can extract features and patterns from huge data sets using minimal computing power. The algorithm has been successfully applied to analyze complex phenomena represented by billions of data points.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·DateJan 8, 2009

Robo-lizards help prove long-standing signaling theory

Researchers using robotic lizards in Puerto Rico's forests showed that animals can use visual displays to grab their neighbors' attention before initiating more information-rich performances. Pushups and rapid dewlap extensions prompted neighboring lizards to orient themselves more quickly, confirming a nearly 30-year-old hypothesis.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2008

Building a better bee

A UC Davis researcher has crossed New World Carniolans with Old World bees to create a more productive, winter-hardy, and resistant strain. This genetic research aims to increase resistance to pests and diseases, which are major contributors to the decline of honey bee colonies.

Robots learn to follow

Researchers at UC Davis developed a control system that allows robots to pick up on cues and predict where leaders are going, enabling them to follow accurately around corners. The system uses behavioral cues such as head turns and incorporates them into decision-making processes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·DateAug 28, 2008

Memory trick shows brain organization

A new study published in Neuron reveals that the perirhinal cortex can contribute to forming memories by creating simple associations between items. This finding expands our understanding of how brain areas involved in memory formation are organized, potentially leading to new insights into memory disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.

Smart contact lenses

Researchers at UC Davis have created smart contact lenses that can measure eye pressure and dispense medication. These contact lenses, made with a new material, could help doctors better understand glaucoma and improve patient treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 30, 2008

New insight on superconductors

A team of researchers from UC Davis and Los Alamos National Laboratory have found a simple way to calculate the temperature at which the Kondo liquid emerges in heavy-electron materials, leading to new understanding of superconductivity. The discovery may help researchers find organizing principles of heavy-electron superconductivity.