The Center for Theoretical Biological Physics at UCSD combines theoreticians and experimentalists to advance research in understanding complex biological systems. The interdisciplinary approach will provide insights into fundamental laws governing biological systems, enabling predictions and breakthroughs in biology and physics.
The OptIPuter project aims to create a parallel computer that uses optical networks to connect distributed clusters and large data repositories. This will enable scientists to analyze and visualize massive amounts of data in near real-time.
A new study reveals three distinct species of African elephants: savanna, forest, and west African. The west African population has been diverging for over two million years and is threatened with extinction due to human activities.
Researchers uncovered characteristics of faults that move backwards, contrary to conventional observations, and found the material within faults is significantly different than its surroundings. The study provides a new way to identify potentially active faults and better understand the earthquake process.
Despite increased OTC sales, smoking cessation aid effectiveness has decreased, particularly among light smokers who are less responsive to these products. Researchers recommend using NRTs in combination with behavioral counseling to overcome barriers to quitting.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine discovered that C-reactive protein (CRP) binds to oxidized LDL, suggesting a potential trigger for the development of atherosclerosis. The study highlights CRP's role in recognizing phosphocholine on oxidized LDL and apoptotic cells.
UCSD researchers describe how Bacillus anthracis' lethal toxin disables macrophage signaling, allowing bacteria to spread unchecked. The study's findings open the door for developing an antidote to block the toxin's action.
Researchers found that elephants have dense connective tissue replacing pleural membranes to withstand pressure, allowing them to breathe while submerged. West's extensive work on respiratory function also explored high-altitude effects and weightlessness on astronauts.
Researchers Deane and Stokes developed a new depiction of bubble sizes and creation processes using acoustical and optical observations. They found that bubble size distribution follows two distinct mechanisms, one for small and large bubbles.
Researchers discovered that nitrogen is quickly recycled through subduction zones in Central American volcanoes. Contrary to expectations, the study found that nitrogen gas was driven down deep into the subduction zone before rising back to Earth's surface in Guatemalan volcano systems.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the transmission rate of drug-resistant HIV had more than doubled among patients in North America. The study, which analyzed over 300 patients, revealed a significant increase in the prevalence of viral mutations associated with resistance.
Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography used satellite and radar technologies to monitor the height and thickness of Antarctica's ice shelves. They successfully measured the effect of tides on ice shelf height, allowing for more accurate tracking of climate-related changes.
Researchers at UCSD identified a gene called Six6 and its co-factor Dach2, which enable normal eye size by controlling cell growth. The study provides insights into the developmental role of these proteins in other organ systems.
Researchers at UCSD create hybrid composite alloy material combining shape-memory nickel-titanium with super-elastic foams and glass beads for enhanced flexibility and resilience. The new material absorbs high-velocity impacts, potentially stopping cracks and collateral damage.
In southern Jordan, a team led by Thomas Levy from UCSD discovered the largest Early Bronze Age metal factory in the Middle East, dated to ca. 2700 BC. The site yielded hundreds of clay casting molds and thousands of stone hammers, anvils, and other artifacts.
Victor Nizet's award-winning research focuses on understanding the production of toxins by group A and B streptococcus in children, shedding light on potential treatments and disease prevention strategies. His work also explores anti-microbial peptides and the mechanism behind group B strep's ability to cause meningitis.
Researchers discovered how brain filters sensory inputs to focus on specific smells, tastes, or sounds by hardwiring sensory and motor cortices. This mechanism enables immediate motor signals to enhance sensory perception, illustrating the intricate connection between sensation and motor control.
Researchers found two genes associated with human cancer play a central role in orienting cells towards chemical cues. They discovered that PI3K acts as an internal compass and steering mechanism, allowing cells to move efficiently towards chemical attractants.
Astronomers have found evidence for dark dwarf galaxies that support the theory of cold dark matter. The study analyzed gravitational lensing effects on distant galaxies, revealing the presence of hundreds of invisible dwarf galaxies surrounding large galaxies.
Walter Cronkite, renowned television newsman, receives the Scripps Nierenberg Prize for his dedication to science and public interest. The prize honors Cronkite's work in promoting scientific understanding of the earth for society and the environment.
Keeling's 45-year curve of atmospheric carbon dioxide, known as the 'Keeling curve,' has been a crucial dataset in understanding global climate change. His work has also shown that the oceans play a significant role in modulating atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations.
A Scripps research study uses remote imaging techniques to accurately measure breaking waves, providing insights into ocean currents, heat transfer, and aerosol production. The findings will inform two new projects aiming to understand hurricane dynamics and thermodynamics.
A synthetic form of bacterial DNA has been shown to reduce the harmful effects of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in mice while enhancing the immune system. The study's findings suggest that IBD patients may be able to take an oral form of this compound once a week to prevent flare-up periods typical of the disease.
The RDCC facilitates collaboration between researchers to develop new diagnostic tests and innovative therapies. Researchers aim to translate scientific discoveries into patient treatment within five years.
A study by the University of California, San Diego Cancer Center found that the percentage of smoke-free workplaces increased from 35% to over 93%, while nearly half of adult smokers lived in smoke-free homes. The study highlights the effectiveness of clean air legislation and education in reducing exposure to secondhand smoke.
Scientists developed a new technique to chronicle protein development, movement and interactions in living cells. The technology uses small binding domains that interact with other compounds, allowing researchers to distinguish old from new proteins and explore dynamics at different resolution levels.
A six-month pilot study found that Ginkgo biloba improved performance on neuropsychological tests in patients with mild multiple sclerosis. About 50% of Americans with MS experience cognitive problems, and the herb may show a beneficial effect on attention, memory, and functioning.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have discovered an enzyme that can halt muscle wasting in mice with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The study found that adding supplemental amounts of CT GalNAc transferase to skeletal muscles inhibited muscle destruction.
The study reveals significant differences in human and chimpanzee brain gene and protein expression, with humans accumulating expression differences at least five times faster than chimpanzees. This discovery may provide insights into the genetics underlying diseases that affect humans but not chimps.
The study predicts that over 50 years, changing climate will bring about great instability for wildlife, reshuffling ecosystems and introducing new diseases and parasites. A majority of species are expected to have smaller geographical ranges than today, with some local communities experiencing up to 40% species turnover.
A study found that participants with Alzheimer's disease showed greater discrepancies in cognitive skills, particularly in visual and verbal tests. The research suggests that non-invasive cognitive tests could detect early signs of the disease.
A new study by Scripps scientists reveals that intermediate-sized predators can have significant impacts on ecosystems, contrary to previous conclusions. The research highlights the importance of considering all species, not just larger ones, for maintaining ecosystem stability and biodiversity.
The UC San Diego Department of Psychiatry will provide annual conferences, consultation services, and education campaigns to support SACPA's goal of reducing crime and improving health outcomes for non-violent offenders. The partnership aims to address the root causes of addiction as a public health issue.
The pituitary gland develops from a common primordium into multiple endocrine cell types through intricate signaling and nuclear events. Researchers describe the complex interactions of transcriptional regulatory factors controlling this process.
Researchers found that raloxifene reduced the risk of cardiovascular events by 40% in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who were also at high risk for cardiovascular disease. A subset of 1,035 women showed a significant reduction in cardiovascular events compared to placebo.
A six-year study of over 1 million adults found that those who slept 6-7 hours a night had a lower death rate compared to those who slept 8 hours or more. The study, led by UCSD professor Daniel F. Kripke, could not explain the causes behind this association.
A Scripps Institution of Oceanography study reveals a significant warming trend in the Southern Ocean over the last 50 years, with temperatures rising nearly double the global average. The research suggests that this region may be responding more rapidly to climate change than previously thought.
D'Andrade's research focuses on cognitive anthropology, quantitative methods, and American culture, with a focus on insightful interpretations of historical trends shaping the future goals of anthropology. He is one of 14 individuals honored by the NAS this year.
Researchers reveal how mutations in Hox genes allowed aquatic crustaceans to evolve into six-legged insects, answering a key criticism of evolution. The discovery sheds light on the genetic mechanisms behind macroevolutionary change.
Researchers at UCSD found that the Anaphase-Promoting Complex protein complex has two roles in embryonic development, helping set up differences between outer and inner layers of the embryo. This discovery provides a new understanding of how embryos divide into different tissue types.
Professor Ramanathan recognized for his groundbreaking studies on clouds, aerosols, and greenhouse gases in the earth's climate system. His work has significantly advanced our understanding of radiative feedbacks in climate change and ocean temperature regulation.
Biologists at UCSD observed a protein gradient in developing fruit fly embryos that triggers division into nervous system and epidermis. The findings confirm Alan Turing's hypothesis from the 1950s, providing insights into embryonic development.
A potent bacterial toxin called streptolysin S (SLS) plays a crucial role in producing necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection also known as 'flesh-eating disease'. Researchers discovered that SLS is essential for both group A Streptococcus and group G Streptococcus bacteria to cause the infection.
Researchers at UCSD have discovered that silicon wafers can be easily made into tiny explosives, ideal for rapid chemical analysis of toxic metals. The explosives can also be used as power sources for micro-electrical mechanical systems, enabling the creation of self-destructing devices.
The discovery provides the first evidence that planets at earthlike distances can survive the evolution of their host star into a giant. The planet orbits iota Draconis, an old star with a radius 13 times that of the sun, and has an elliptical orbit that takes 1.5 years to complete.
UCSD researchers identify fibulin-5 as essential for elastic fiber development and organization. Mice without fibulin-5 exhibit severe skin and lung problems, including emphysema and aortic stiffness.
Researchers have discovered a promising new target for cancer chemotherapy by blocking cell uptake of polyamines with a heparan sulfate inhibitor. This approach, combined with a well-known anti-parasitic drug, shows great promise in reducing tumor formation.
Researchers developed a fast laboratory test to study and design new compounds blocking HIV molecular components before infection. The test accelerates the discovery process, allowing pharmaceutical companies to target the entire preintegration complex, a critical step in HIV replication.
UCSD researchers identified a gene, KChIP2, that regulates critical electrical currents in the human heart and is associated with increased vulnerability to arrhythmias. The study found that a defective version of this gene can lead to malignant heart rhythms and sudden death in patients with heart failure.
A new study suggests that tiny aerosols from human-produced pollution can weaken the global hydrological cycle, affecting water availability and quality. The research, published in Science, reveals that these particles can limit sunlight reaching the ocean, leading to reduced rainfall over polluted regions.