A new theory published in the journal Human Development proposes that adults can learn new skills and combat cognitive aging by adopting broad learning strategies similar to those used in infancy. By embracing open-minded learning, individualized scaffolding, growth mindset, forgiving environment, serious commitment to learning, and le...
A new paper by Kate Sweeny argues there's a positive side to worrying, with benefits including motivating preventive and protective behavior, recovery from traumatic events, and adaptive preparation and planning. Worrying the right amount can also motivate without paralyzing motivation, while serving as an emotional buffer.
A team of researchers has completed the sequencing of barley's complete genome, providing new insights into gene families key to the malting process. The breakthrough could aid in breeding and optimizing genetic diversity in crops like rice and wheat.
Pacific Islanders face significant mental health disparities due to cultural taboos, stigma, and lack of information about resources. A new two-year study led by UC Riverside's Andrew Subica aims to develop culturally attuned interventions to promote engagement in mental health services.
Nematodes, microscopic worms that control diseases in humans and kill insects, secrete deadly cocktails of proteins to infect hosts. Researchers developed a method to work with nematodes outside their host, identifying 472 proteins involved in parasitism.
Researchers at UCR's Bourns College of Engineering turned waste glass bottles into nanosilicon anodes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. The new battery technology stores more energy, charges faster, and is more stable than commercial coin cell batteries.
Researchers developed and evaluated MyFamilyPlan, a web-based preconception health education module. The study found that women who used the online format were about twice as likely to discuss preconception health with their doctors. This increase in discussions was associated with improved patient care.
Scientists at UC Riverside's Akbari lab have successfully created a strain of red-eyed mutant wasps using CRISPR gene-slicing technology. The goal is to better understand the biology of wasps and other insects to control pests that destroy crops or spread diseases like malaria.
Researchers at UC Riverside have discovered a new battery coating that stabilizes performance, eliminates dendrite growth, and increases the lifetime of lithium-metal anodes. The coating, made with methyl viologen, can enhance battery performance by three times compared to current standards.
A UC Riverside researcher has received a two-year grant to explore a therapeutic target for IBD patients with TCPTP mutations. The study aims to correct intestinal barrier defects and reduce inflammation in the intestine.
UCR researchers developed an inexpensive sensor that can weigh microgram-sized biological samples in fluids, expanding applications in toxicity research, plant sciences, and biomaterials engineering. The sensor uses a simple glass tube and off-the-shelf electronics to measure mass, volume, and density of tiny samples.
Researchers have found that dust from the Gobi Desert is providing more phosphorus than previously thought for plants in the Sierra Nevada mountains, including giant sequoias. The study suggests that dust may be shaping this iconic California ecosystem and could help predict forest response to climate change.
Researchers at UC Riverside have determined the crystal structure of the Zika virus NS5 protein, enabling a better understanding of its replication mechanism. The discovery provides a strong basis for developing potential inhibitors against ZIKV infection.
A new study reveals that adults who learned Spanish as a second language can understand subtle aspects of Spanish grammar not present in English. Researchers found that these adults were capable of learning and processing a new language in a way similar to native speaker language use.
A new study by UCR psychology professor Megan Robbins found that using positive emotion words and balanced pronouns, such as
A study found that student veterans struggle with psychological trauma, experiencing sleep disturbance, hypervigilance, and difficulty concentrating. The research highlights the need for supportive services in higher education to integrate student veterans into campus communities.
A new home-based telemedicine program will be developed and pilot-tested to treat multiple sclerosis patients. The program, funded by a $100,000 Genentech grant, aims to improve care for people with advanced MS living in medically underserved communities.
A study of galaxy properties in the cosmic web reveals that central galaxies form stars for a longer period than satellite galaxies. Satellite galaxies experience a steep decline in star formation activity due to 'ram-pressure stripping' as they fall into dense cluster environments.
A study led by UC Riverside's Brandon Brown explores HPV vaccine acceptability among Peruvian men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW), finding widespread acceptance despite barriers such as access and stigma. The research aims to inform HPV vaccine implementation globally.
A team of scientists at UC Riverside has identified five major microRNA expression peaks in the Aedes aegypti fat body following a blood meal. By disrupting these miRNAs, researchers hope to control mosquito reproduction and prevent the spread of diseases transmitted by these mosquitoes. The study provides insight into the regulatory g...
A UC Riverside study found that chronic demyelination is closely linked to seizures in MS patients, with specific neurons being lost and hyperactivity increasing. The researchers hope to develop drugs aimed at reducing seizures, which could also benefit epilepsy patients.
The team will design and identify bactericides to target Huanglongbing, which has devastated citrus trees in Asia and South America. They will also develop a new delivery system for use in field citrus trees.
Researchers at UC Riverside have developed a new method to measure nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD) efficiency in real-time, allowing for the identification of molecules that regulate this pathway. This breakthrough has the potential to lead to the development of targeted treatments for diseases such as ALS and muscular dystrophy.
A new paper outlines expressions of skin conditions often misdiagnosed as brown recluse bites, including bacterial infections and deadly reactions. The authors introduce the NOT RECLUSE mnemonic device to help doctors accurately diagnose these cases.
A recent study suggests the Ventura-Pitas Point fault in southern California has a 'ramp-flat geometry' with a flat section between two tilting sections, similar to a staircase. This structure would result in stronger shaking and more damage during an earthquake.
Researchers used live cell time-lapse imaging to investigate maize mutant growth, finding that delays in cell division can lead to growth defects when paired with improper division plane orientation. This study provides crucial details for understanding plant growth and may have long-term implications for developing short-stature maize...
A team of biomedical scientists has identified a molecule that targets the EphA4 receptor, a gene associated with rapid ALS progression. The research aims to delay motor neuron death and explore potential applications in spinal cord injury, Alzheimer's disease, and some cancers.
A team of scientists led by Anandasankar Ray have identified Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor 6 (HDAC6) as a regulator of learning in fruit flies. The enzyme acts like a 'dimmer switch' to increase or decrease signal across synapses, and its role in healthy neurons is less understood.
Researchers found that DNA amount controls initial steroid hormone production, signaling start of metamorphosis. This internal timer determines juvenile development and makes metamorphosis irreversible.
University of California Riverside researchers identify amino acid taste receptor Ir76b playing key role in insect identification of umami taste. The discovery sheds light on insect food choice and potential targets for controlling insect populations.
A University of California, Riverside graduate student has discovered several new species of wasps that feed on ants, including one named after musician Ani DiFranco. These wasps have a unique association with extrafloral nectaries and can potentially control invasive ant populations.
UC Riverside-led research quantifies rattlesnake strikes for the first time using portable high-speed cameras, capturing three-dimensional video of a snake preying on a kangaroo rat. The study reveals that snakes can greatly exceed lab observations and that kangaroo rats may use elastic energy storage to evade strikes.
A University of California, Riverside researcher is leading a team studying the life cycles of harmful viruses. The goal is to understand viral capsid dynamics to develop new approaches to curb infections.
A study by UC Riverside researchers shows that a western diet leads to overeating and obesity due to elevated peripheral endocannabinoid signaling. This therapeutic approach targets cannabinoid receptors in the periphery, holding promise as a safe treatment for overeating and diet-induced obesity.
Researchers at UC Riverside developed an innovative energy management system for plug-in hybrids, cutting fuel consumption by over 30% through real-time data analysis. The system combines connected vehicle technology and evolutionary algorithms to optimize power split between engine and battery, achieving greater efficiency.
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a novel strategy for controlling viral diseases by targeting the interaction between a viral effector protein and a host hormone. The study found that the cucumber mosaic virus manipulates plants to release odors attractive to aphids, which transmit the virus.
Researchers developed a transparent, self-healing, highly stretchable conductive material that can be electrically activated to power artificial muscles. The material has potential applications in robots, biosensors, and electronic devices, offering improved durability and efficiency.
UC Riverside scientists created astrophotography classes for non-science students, resulting in improved understanding of telescopes and cameras, as well as renewed interest in astronomy. The cost-effective courses also encouraged students to take up astrophotography as a hobby, opening the path to future amateur astronomers.
A team of biomedical scientists at UC Riverside has identified a specific receptor, TNFR2, that induces M cells, which promote inflammation and worsen IBD. Targeting only this receptor may lead to more effective therapies for IBD patients.
A new study by UCR psychology professor Weiwei Zhang found that familiarity with a subject can boost memory capacity. Participants were shown Pokémon characters and asked to remember them in working memory; those who were more familiar with the characters remembered more.
Researchers at UCR developed therapeutic monoclonal antibodies that selectively block the action of faulty matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), targeting cancer cell spread. Inspired by camelid antibodies, these human antibodies have convex binding sites ideal for interactions with concave MMP sites.
A new study by UC Riverside psychology professor Kate Sweeny found that optimists and pessimists alike brace for the worst when waiting for uncertain news, with no significant differences between the two groups. This challenges the common assumption that optimists are immune to anxiety and pessimism.
A study led by UC Riverside's Maurizio Pellecchia advocates for focusing on Bfl-1 as a drug target to fight cancer. The research team found that Bfl-1 is more relevant than previously thought and can be targeted with innovative inhibitors.
Researchers at UC Riverside found that when teens view their parents' parenting tactics more negatively, they show elevated levels of aggressive behaviors. The study highlights the importance of adolescents' evaluation of their parents' responses to challenging behaviors.
Researchers have identified the functions of two sibling RNA-binding proteins in neural stem cells and neurons. PTBP1 and PTBP2 serve both redundant and unique roles in brain development, contributing to neuronal differentiation. This discovery has implications for fine-tuning stem cell therapeutic strategies for neurologic disorders.
A team of researchers has found a long-sought-after mechanism in human cells that creates immunity to influenza A virus, which could help treat diseases caused by viruses. The discovery builds on over 20 years of research and demonstrates the antiviral function of RNAi in humans against distinct RNA viruses.
A team of researchers has developed a new type of quantum heat engine photocell that can regulate solar power conversion without active feedback or adaptive control mechanisms. This design is inspired by the natural regulation of energy flow in photosynthetic green plants, and could lead to more efficient and cost-effective solar cells.
Astronomers have discovered a large population of distant dwarf galaxies that could reveal details about star formation in the early universe. These galaxies are 10 to 100 times fainter than previously observed galaxies, but produce more than half of the ultraviolet light during this era.
A study proposes that peer-led services can connect student veterans to resources and healthcare services, increasing retention rates and ensuring academic success. Peer-led supportive services offer a sense of community, bridging the gap between military culture and university life.
AUC Riverside-led team discovers unique population of extremely red quasars with high incidence of powerful quasar-driven outflows. These outflows may be involved in galaxy-wide blowouts of gas and dust, halting further growth in black holes and inhibiting star formation.