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University of California - San Diego


Chimps dig up clues to human past?

A team of scientists reports that chimpanzees in Tanzania are using digging tools to gather underground foods, suggesting that this ability may have been present in early human ancestors. The study provides insights into the role of dietary shifts in hominid evolution and challenges current hypotheses.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 12, 2007

In human grid, we're the cogs

Researchers from UC San Diego propose a grid system that utilizes human computation to label images and perform tasks for the benefit of others. The 'Soylent Grid' uses CAPTCHAs to engage humans in the loop, allowing for efficient data labeling and various applications such as assistive technology for visually impaired individuals.

Digital dandelions

Computer scientists at UC San Diego create a new algorithm to generate annotated Internet router graphs, mimicking key features of the Internet. The technique allows researchers to experiment with different network topologies and test the sensitivity of various techniques.

Discovery may pave the way for a new class of diabetes drugs

A multidisciplinary team led by UCSD researchers has determined the structure of MitoNEET, a protein that shows promise as a target for developing innovative diabetes drugs. The discovery provides insights into how these drugs may protect cells from oxidative stress and potentially offer greater specificity and fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2007

Controlling bandwidth in the clouds

Researchers at UCSD have designed a new algorithm that enables distributed rate limiting to enforce global bandwidth rate limits and dynamically shift allocations based on current network demand. The flow proportional share algorithm uses TCP to estimate bandwidth demand, providing fairness and practicality for deployment nationwide.

How language relates to use of mental health services for California Latinos

Researchers found that Spanish-speaking Latinos in San Diego County's mental health system had a higher proportion of patients with major depression but lower rates of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. They were also more likely to receive outpatient treatment than English-speaking Latinos or Caucasians.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 1, 2007

Obesity is 'socially contagious'

A study by Harvard and the University of California, San Diego found that obesity is socially contagious, spreading from person to person in a social network. The greatest effect was seen among friends, with a 171% increase in chances of becoming obese if a mutual friend becomes obese.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 25, 2007

Blood clotting protein may inhibit spinal cord regeneration

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego discovered that fibrinogen inhibits neural cell growth in spinal cord injuries, leading to paralysis. The study found that fibrinogen's binding to beta 3 integrin receptor and epidermal growth factor receptor prevents axonal growth, which is necessary for regeneration.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 3, 2007

Scripps/UC San Diego scientists solve genome of promising marine organism

Researchers have successfully sequenced the genome of Salinispora tropica, a bacterium discovered in Bahamian mud with potential to produce compounds showing promise in treating diseases such as cancer. The decoded genome reveals an impressive 10% of genes dedicated to producing molecules for antibiotics and anticancer agents.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 13, 2007