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University of California - San Diego


Mesh-like network of arteries adjusts to restore blood flow to stroke-injured brain

Researchers discovered that small arteries at the brain's surface redirect and widen to maintain a constant blood supply after a stroke. The mesh-like vascular network enables the arteries to compensate for reduced blood cell velocity by increasing diameter, ensuring steady delivery of oxygen and nutrients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism·DateJan 30, 2009

UC San Diego engineers develop novel method for accelerated bone growth

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a novel method to accelerate bone growth using nanotubes and stem cells, which could lead to quicker recovery times for patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. The new method uses mesenchymal stem cells placed on top of titanium oxide nanotubes to control cell differentiation into osteoblasts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2009

Eyes on the prize

New brain-imaging research from UC San Diego finds that visual areas respond more strongly to objects of value, altering neural activation in the human visual system. This altered processing affects not only high-level cognitive function but also early stages of information processing.

Spreading the joy around

A new study by James Fowler and Nicholas Christakis reveals that happiness can spread rapidly through social networks, with happy friends increasing one's chances of happiness by 9 percent. The research also shows that the structure of connections plays a significant role in determining individual happiness.

Treating sleep apnea in Alzheimer's patients helps cognition

A randomized clinical trial found that CPAP treatment improved cognitive functioning in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease and obstructive sleep apnea. The study showed significant improvement in neurological test scores after treatment, suggesting clinicians should consider implementing CPAP treatment for these patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateDec 3, 2008

The smart way to study

A recent study by researchers at UC San Diego found that proper spacing of lessons can dramatically enhance learning. The study, which involved over 1,000 subjects, revealed that larger gaps between study sessions result in better recall of facts. This contradicts the common practice of cramming, which is not effective in the long haul.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 18, 2008

Light triggers a new code for brain cells

Researchers at University of California, San Diego identify cells responding to illumination by producing dopamine, a chemical message controlling pigmentation in tadpoles. This finding suggests that stimulating specific neural circuits could selectively alter brain chemistry to remedy low levels of neurotransmitters underlying human a...

When you look at a face, you look nose first

UC San Diego computer scientists found that people first fixate on the left of the center of the nose and then the center of the nose to determine if a face is familiar. Looking at two spots, such as the nose and eye, does not improve recognition, but allows for better performance. Understanding how humans recognize faces may help crea...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 27, 2008

King Solomon's (copper) mines?

Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of ancient copper-production center at Khirbat en-Nahas, dating back to the 10th century BCE, pushing back archaeological chronology by three centuries. The discovery supports biblical narratives and raises questions about the historicity of King David and Solomon's rule.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 27, 2008