A new study finds that Mexican American children of authorized immigrant mothers have a 2-year advantage in educational attainment compared to those whose mothers entered the country illegally. The legacy effects of grandparents' unauthorized status contribute to this gap.
Researchers found that using germ-killing soap and ointment on all ICU patients was more effective than other strategies, reducing bloodstream infections and MRSA presence by up to 44%. The study also showed the approach could prevent infections caused by germs other than MRSA.
A synthetic compound ShK-186, derived from a sea anemone toxin, enhances metabolic activity and shows potential as a treatment for obesity. The compound selectively blocks the activity of a protein that promotes inflammation through the Kv1.3 potassium channel.
Researchers at UC Irvine have discovered a new mechanism by which estrogen suppresses lipid synthesis in the liver, revealing potential new approaches for treating certain liver diseases. The study found that estrogen acts on cell membrane-based receptors to inhibit lipid synthesis, changing long-held views in the field.
A team of scientists at the University of California, Irvine, has discovered a rare mega-galaxy dubbed HXMM01, which is 10 times larger than the Milky Way. The galaxy was formed after a 11-billion-year collision between two young galaxies and is rapidly fading away due to its own cataclysmic birth.
A new study reveals that the 2009 H1N1 swine flu pandemic was deadliest for people under the age of 65, while those 65 and over had greater immunity due to previous exposure to similar viruses. Researchers suggest targeting pandemic vaccination campaigns to adults under 65 in comparable scenarios.
A UCI study found that a low-cost, at-home treatment involving sensory exercises with common household items significantly improved the behaviors and cognitive function of children with autism. After six months of therapy, 42% of children showed significant improvement in behaviors commonly affected by autism.
Researchers have created a low-cost and accurate method for detecting prostate cancer in urine, potentially leading to early diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes. The technology uses nanoscale protein receptors to capture cancer molecule signals, offering a promising alternative to existing tests that can be costly and invasive.
A new UCI study found that assessing comorbidities can help target prostate cancer patients who may not benefit from a biopsy, potentially reducing unnecessary procedures. The study identified 20% of men as high-risk due to existing health conditions, suggesting alternative care options.
Researchers found that genes controlling circadian clock rhythms are profoundly altered in the brains of people with severe depression, suggesting a physical basis for many symptoms. The study provides clues for potential new classes of compounds to rapidly treat depression by resetting abnormal clock genes.
Scientists at UC Irvine and the University of Kentucky have created synthetic materials that mimic the geometry of kidney bean leaves, trapping bedbugs in seconds. The technology has the potential to provide a non-toxic solution for bedbug infestations, which can cause significant discomfort and distress.
A new study from UC Irvine found that daily emotional responses to stresses can predict long-term mental health outcomes. The research suggests maintaining emotional balance is crucial for avoiding severe mental health problems.
A UCI study has found that Southern California sagebrush populations are more adaptable to climate change than those in the north. The researchers transplanted sagebrush from sites along the California coast to a test garden, measuring its responses to altered precipitation and long-term climate data.
Researchers at UC Irvine have identified a novel molecular mechanism that triggers long-term memory formation, which may be linked to intellectual disabilities. The study suggests that mutations in the Baf53b gene can impair synaptic function and inhibit long-term memories.
A new study by UC Irvine scientists has found that ocean plankton near the surface of warm waters are much more carbon-rich than previously assumed. The researchers' findings challenge the Redfield ratio, a core principle in marine science that was thought to be constant across different depths and locations.
A UC Irvine study of 150,000 people in 142 countries found that the link between positive emotions and health is stronger in developing nations. People in Malawi showed a more robust connection between positive emotions and health than residents of the U.S., highlighting the importance of emotional well-being worldwide.
A team of researchers at UC Irvine has discovered a rare and promising binding site on the mutant p53 protein that can be targeted by cancer-fighting drugs. This finding may lead to the development of a universal treatment approach for multiple types of cancers, including those of the lung and breast.
A UCI study found that doubling of moisture in air doubles summer rain, boosting runoff but also accelerating monsoons. The extra water vapor accelerates atmospheric circulation, drawing in more moisture from the Gulf of Mexico.
A UC Irvine study reveals that low-dose exposure to the chemical tributyltin during pregnancy can lead to obesity in offspring and great-grandchildren, affecting gene expression and fat accumulation. The findings suggest permanent effects without subsequent exposure, highlighting the risks of endocrine-disrupting compounds.
Researchers created an EEG-based computer system that activates optical fibers in the brain to arrest seizure activity and reduce severe 'tonic-clonic' events. The approach shows promise for treating severe manifestations of epilepsy with minimal side effects.
UCI-led studies reveal cellular mechanism governing day-night pattern, identifying novel compounds that control energy metabolism. The findings point to potential treatments for metabolic disorders, cancer and aging.
The UCI Center for Autism Research & Treatment is launching an innovative drug discovery effort to develop effective pharmaceutical therapy for core deficits of autism. Researchers are using a synergistic approach, integrating multiple disciplines and compounds to target neural pathways altered in the disorder.
A UCI study reveals that people with Down syndrome are more susceptible to other conditions due to a breakdown in energy metabolism within brain cells. This metabolic dysfunction contributes to the higher probability of Alzheimer's disease, diabetes and autistic spectrum disorders.
A new study suggests that the current approach to addressing climate change is insufficient and requires drastic cuts in CO2 emissions. The researchers propose a more radical transformation of the global energy system, with a focus on developing new, carbon-free power sources.
A dopamine-receptor gene variant is associated with living a longer life, according to a study led by UC Irvine and Brookhaven researchers. The variant, DRD4 7R allele, blunts dopamine signaling and enhances individuals' reactivity to their environment.
Researchers discovered that leaping toads' muscles adapt to varying impact intensity during landing, protecting them from injury. This study's findings may lead to improved rehabilitation programs for individuals with neuromuscular deficiencies.
A short burst of moderate exercise enhances memory consolidation in healthy older adults and those with mild cognitive impairment. Exercise immediately after viewing pleasant images improved recall in both groups compared to those who did not exercise.
UCI researchers found that histone proteins stored in lipid droplets can target and kill bacterial infections, providing a novel approach to fighting bacterial growth. This discovery could lead to new treatments for patients with bad bacterial infections.
Researchers from UC Irvine and Cal State Fullerton are partnering to conduct pilot research projects on cancer health disparities in Orange County. The alliance will focus on erasing disparities in cervical, stomach, and liver cancers, as well as increasing awareness of the risks among different ethnic groups.
Researchers from UC Irvine and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory have discovered that galaxy halos are likely caused by orphan stars ejected from galaxies during violent mergers. The team used data from the Spitzer Space Telescope to study the patterns of diffuse light, finding that it is too strong to be explained by earlier theories.
Researchers created a new fruit fly model of inherited epilepsy that shows the link between temperature-dependent seizures and flawed sodium channels. The study establishes a platform to develop therapies for febrile seizure disorders, such as GEFS+, which can persist beyond childhood and often develop seizures in the absence of fever.
UC Irvine's Program in Geriatrics has been awarded a three-year, $1 million grant from the U.S. Administration on Aging to implement a new federal initiative combating elder abuse. The program will test promising community-based practices to prevent the abuse of people with dementia, with the goal of reducing this complex and interrela...
The UCI Center for Complex Biological Systems has been awarded $11.5 million in continued funding, enabling researchers to explore dynamic interactions underlying complex functions. This award reinforces the center's interdisciplinary approach and its contributions to advancing our understanding of biological systems.
UCI researchers found that chronic kidney disease changes the composition of intestinal bacterial microbes, leading to uremic toxins and nutritional abnormalities. Study leader Dr. N.D. Vaziri suggests improving gut microbes through diet and dialysis may improve patient well-being.
Researchers at UCI have developed a genetically modified mouse model to study degenerative diseases like Lou Gehrig's, Paget's and dementia. The model will allow researchers to study disease progression in vivo and develop novel treatment strategies.
A study by UC Irvine neurologist Dr. Jack Lin suggests that screening for comorbidities can enhance the care and quality of life for children and adults with epilepsy. The study highlights the importance of early detection, treatment, and prevention of psychiatric, cognitive, and social issues in conjunction with epilepsy.
Researchers at UCI found compounds that inhibit enzymes blocking endocannabinoid transmitters, which can help correct behavioral issues related to fragile X syndrome. The study suggests a new approach for treating anxiety and cognitive defects in people with the condition.
Researchers at UC Irvine's Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a key genetic pathway responsible for melanoma cells' resistance to chemotherapy. Targeting this pathway could lead to the development of new treatments for the deadly skin cancer, which claims nearly 10,000 U.S. lives each year.
The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine awards UC Irvine $5.6 million for Alzheimer's research, while Dr. Henry Klassen receives $17.3 million to develop stem cells for retinitis pigmentosa treatment. Researchers aim to advance human clinical trials using stem cells to improve memory in people with Alzheimer's disease.
A UC Irvine study found that watching extensive TV coverage of traumatic events led to increased physical and psychological ailments in US adults. Repeated exposure to graphic media images may have long-lasting mental and physical health consequences.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), have found that commercial natural gas capture accounts for up to 70% of the dramatic leveling off in atmospheric methane levels since the late-20th century. The study suggests that changes in fossil fuel use were a major factor in this trend.
Researchers identified how certain RNA viruses hijack a key DNA repair activity of human cells to multiply, providing a new target for universal treatments. This discovery could lead to the development of broad-spectrum treatments for picornaviruses, including the common cold, without resistance issues.
UCI astrophysicists analyze NASA data suggesting gamma rays could be evidence of dark matter particles annihilating each other. The observation is consistent with leading theories for dark matter and its presumed presence at galactic centers.
A UCI-led review reveals creative methods for capturing liquid sewage, highway runoff, and household water to supplement drinking water. The study concludes that transforming individual habits and adopting sustainable practices are crucial to breaking the cycle of waste and over-reliance on freshwater resources.
A combination of anastrozole and fulvestrant extended the median survival time of women with Stage 4 hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer. The treatment option showed a significant overall survival benefit, particularly exciting for patients who have not had a new treatment in over a decade.
A UCI study reveals that individuals with stellar autobiographical memory exhibit distinct brain variations and statistical evidence of obsessive-compulsive tendencies. These unique traits enable them to effortlessly recall every moment of their lives since age 10.
The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine has awarded $20 million to UCI and StemCells Inc. to advance joint project treating cervical spinal cord injury using human neural stem cells. The funding will support the collection of data necessary to establish human clinical trials in the US.
A team of scientists has generated a human model of Huntington's disease directly from the skin cells of affected patients, providing a new tool for researchers to study the disease and test potential therapies. The re-created neurons will help understand what disables and kills brain cells in people with HD.
UC Irvine will lead a new $12.5 million research center applying social science to digital information design and analysis, alongside four other universities. The center aims to bridge the gap between technical and social disciplines, with annual themes focusing on restoring materiality to information.
Researchers at UCI have developed genetically modified mosquitoes that are unable to infect people with malaria. This breakthrough has significant implications for reducing the spread of the disease, which affects over 40% of the world's population and kills nearly 1 million people annually.