UConn researchers have developed simple measurements and equations that better predict fat distribution in individuals based on their sex and ethnicity. The tools account for differences in body composition between ethnic populations and women and men, providing a more accurate assessment of obesity-related health risks.
Researchers found that older adults with depression exhibit accelerated biological aging, poor physical and brain health, and worse cardiovascular health. This association suggests opportunities for preventive strategies to reduce disability associated with major depression in older adults.
A study by University of Connecticut researchers examines three conservation network strategies to minimize the negative impacts of habitat loss and fragmentation. They found that non-random approaches, such as incorporating five to ten interconnected sites, are more effective at consistently maximizing species richness.
Researchers reconstruct ancient climates using plant fossils from the eastern seaboard, revealing a homogenous climate with warmer temperatures and increased rainfall seasonality. The findings suggest that future warming may be more similar to the early Miocene climate than expected.
A recent study at Mandrin cave in France pushes back the age of archery in Europe to 54,000 years ago, significantly advancing our knowledge of this technology. The discovery reveals a significant number of flint points used as armatures for arrows propelled with a bow.
Researchers synthesized global data from nearly 600 studies on biochar to analyze its potential as a climate-smart agricultural practice. Biochar acts like a sponge, improving soil's capacity to hold water and nutrients, making it more resilient to droughts and sustaining crop yields.
UConn professor Yupeng Chen leads a project with Eascra and Axiom Space to develop therapeutic biomaterials in space, leveraging microgravity for better structural integrity and therapeutic outcomes. The $1.86M NASA contract supports two flights over two years, paving the way for commercialization of in-space manufacturing strategy.
A team of researchers at UConn has discovered the genetic basis for the emergence of a new species of monkeyflower, which lost its yellow pigment but gained pink and later red. The study reveals that unique genes are responsible for this phenomenon, contradicting previous theories on evolution.
A new algorithm and framework for evaluating approaches have improved the accuracy of land change imagery by removing cloud cover. This allows for more accurate analysis of land surface changes, enabling scientists to study events like forest harvesting and urban development.
A team of researchers has found a definitive link between mercury isotopes and the Latest Permian Mass Extinction, the largest extinction event in Earth's history. The study suggests that massive volcanic eruptions in Siberia led to rapid warming and climate change, which contributed to the extinction event.
A new paper by UConn researchers introduces a multifaceted perspective on land change, considering location, time, target, metric, and agent aspects. The framework emphasizes the need for consistent language and multi-source data fusion to accurately describe observations.
Researchers connected global climate modeling with local hydrological data to improve water flow models. They found that using smaller tree samples and younger trees yielded better model validation results.
A novel 'retipping' method produces nine-times as many plants in a similar amount of floor space compared to traditional stem cuttings. The research found that all three methods resulted in similar plant growth and chemical profiles, with retipping requiring the least propagation space.
Researchers at UConn have identified a protective bacterial culture, Hafnia alvei B16, that can prevent infection by two strains of Salmonella, including those resistant to multiple antibiotics. The culture works by inhibiting the growth of pathogens and reducing their virulence, potentially providing a new path forward in combating su...
A team of researchers identified a population of 'cheating' cancer cells that can bypass constraints imposed by lack of oxygen, allowing them to continue growing. These cells manipulate the HIF-1 protein, which normally slows down cell growth under hypoxic conditions.
Research reveals distinct genetic groups of sand lance, a crucial forage fish, with different genome regions on chromosomes 21 and 24. The findings indicate that temperature-driven currents create genetic barriers, affecting population connectivity and survival.
A UConn researcher has compiled a comprehensive database of invasive plant species in Central America, revealing that over 60% have been introduced for ornamental purposes. The study highlights the urgent need for action against tropical invasions, which threaten biodiversity, ecosystems, and human health.
Researchers discovered Mycoplasma pneumoniae's lipids spur T cells to overproduce IL-17, leading to neutrophil recruitment and vaccine-enhanced disease. B cells also play a role in modulating the immune response, suggesting they may hold disease in check.
A new study by Mayra Rodríguez González found that people of color are inversely linked to high amounts of ecosystem services. To address this, Rodríguez recommends obtaining land for restoration and management in diverse communities to increase access and equity.
Researchers from the University of Connecticut found that both delta-8 and delta-9 THC produce similar effects in mice, including lethargy and catalepsy. The study suggests that delta-8 THC interacts with the same receptors as delta-9 THC and can lead to desensitization and withdrawal-like symptoms.
A meta-analysis of six studies concludes that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is more effective than ketamine in quickly relieving major depression symptoms. The analysis, published in JAMA Psychiatry, found no significant differences in ECT's success rate across various age groups and geographic locations.
Researchers create algorithm VZA-COLD to reduce temporal variation in nighttime light data, enabling continuous global monitoring of human activity and behavior changes. This allows for timely detection of short-term changes, such as power outages after hurricanes or humanitarian efforts during wars.
Researchers found that conventional engineered solutions are limited in their ability to adapt to climate change, while nature-based solutions can help coasts absorb impacts of coastal floods and storm surges. The study suggests a shift towards resilience strategies such as living shorelines, constructed wetlands, and strategic retreat.
Researchers at the University of Connecticut uncovered a remarkably well-preserved Early Bronze Age village in Afragola, Italy, providing insights into daily life and agriculture during this era. The site reveals a diverse range of food sources, including grains, fruits, and nuts, as well as evidence of seasonal changes, thanks to the ...
A UConn study found that Connecticut's notification system for substance-ex exposed infants has connected over half of identified cases with community supports and services. The system, which uses de-identified data, has shown promise in reducing disparities in testing and reporting, but there is still room for improvement.
Threespine stickleback fish evolved resistance to freshwater tapeworms by forming scar tissue around them, which prevents the worms from growing. However, this defense has a significant fitness cost for female sticklebacks, as they are 80% less likely to successfully breed due to the accumulated scarring.
Researchers found that people's perception of natural spaces changed during the pandemic, with increased use of rural trails and a newfound appreciation for nature. The study suggests that parks and greenspaces serve as essential amenities for overall well-being, particularly for marginalized communities.
Researchers found that statins, commonly prescribed lipid-lowering drugs, provide a protective immune function in females. Women taking statins were 75% less likely to be ANA+, suggesting a sex-specific difference in the relationship between lipid metabolism and immunity.
Researchers at the University of Connecticut have developed a potential breakthrough treatment for rotator cuff tears, using an advanced polymer to stimulate regeneration of both the tendon and muscle. This approach addresses the real problem of muscle degeneration and fat accumulation that often leads to re-injury after surgery.
Researchers developed a new cardiac cell-derived platform that closely mimics the human heart, accelerating maturation of human cardiac cells towards a state suitable for preclinical drug testing. The model achieved structural, mechanical, metabolic, and electrophysiological characteristics close to adult heart muscle within 30 days.
A UConn study suggests that frequent communication between caseworkers and professionals involved in child welfare cases is associated with increased likelihood of timely family reunification. The research highlights the importance of interprofessional collaboration to identify barriers, stay on the same page, and make timely decisions.
A recent JAMA study analyzing medical records of 244,542 US hospital patients from 2010 to 2019 found a significant decline in adverse events. The rate of adverse drug events, hospital-acquired infections, and procedural complications decreased substantially over the decade.
Researchers found that infected mice and humans emit a specific molecule, acetophenone, which attracts mosquitoes. This altered scent allows the viruses to spread faster. A potential preventative, isotretinoin, was also tested and shown to reduce mosquito attraction.
During the pandemic, people used social media to bond with friends and family, learn new skills, and stay active. Social media use increased across all demographics, with significant increases among females and 18-24 year-olds, highlighting its potential as a source of social support.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding cannabis biology by using firefly genes to study trichome development and cannabinoid synthesis. By cloning promoters and expressing firefly luciferase, researchers can evaluate signals that orchestrate cannabinoid production and trichome development.
Researchers have developed a method to create edible nanoparticles that can transform healthy oils into gel-like blocks, providing a shelf-stable fat alternative for food manufacturers. This new approach could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes by replacing unhealthy fats with healthier options.
Researchers studied fossil plants to understand life on earth in a warmer, wetter climate. They found that the Eocene epoch required a steady supply of precipitation and high CO2 levels to sustain lush green landscapes.
Researchers applied simple but nuanced variables to enhance modeling capabilities, resulting in improved mid- to long-term predictions. Human behavior, particularly the endogenous feedback loop of reduced mobility and social distancing after increased death rates, was found to be key to accurate forecasting.
A new study provides recommendations for behavioral weight loss interventions to address the unmet needs of Black people with obesity. The research emphasizes the importance of enhancing recruitment and retention of Black men and women in behavioral weight loss intervention studies, as well as combining policy with behavioral changes.
Researchers found that sand lance embryos are highly sensitive to ocean acidification, with hatching success reduced to 71% by 2100. This could have severe impacts on the ecosystem, as sand lance are a critical component of the food web in the Northwest Atlantic.
Researchers fill in gaps in Human Reference Genome, discovering repetitive sections are a major source of human variation and genetic diversity. The Telomere-2-Telomere project reveals complex architectural features with significant consequences for understanding human evolution and biological function.
Researchers at UConn Health found that deleting TRPM2 from macrophages in mice reduced atherosclerosis by inhibiting the TRPM2–CD36 inflammatory axis. This approach prevented foamy macrophages and alleviated inflammation in arteries.
The rate of older adults treated for substance abuse increased sharply from 2000 to 2017, with a notable rise in cannabis and cocaine use. This trend is attributed to decreasing stigma around substance abuse, allowing more older adults to seek help through self-referrals.
Researchers studied the Pliocene period, discovering that ice sheet retreat and forest expansion led to wetter conditions in previously dry areas. Current models perform well at simulating these changes, indicating a need for long-term planning to address projected future climate shifts.
Scientists identify a specialized zone in Muller glia cells called the citrullination bunker that sequesters damaged proteins, preserving vision. Chronic engagement of this process may lead to retinal degeneration, but inhibiting it could delay or prevent disease.
Researchers sequenced genetic material from 88 bats and identified four unique rabies viruses, providing baseline data for future epidemiological investigations. The study highlights the importance of monitoring bat populations for rabies transmission and informs vaccine effectiveness.
A new study reveals that mammals, including humans, have different mechanisms to resist cancer spread, which may be an evolutionary compromise to allow invasive pregnancies. Researchers identified specific genetic regulatory mechanisms explaining these differences.
Researchers have discovered a new method to predict heart attacks by analyzing the gene expression of foamy macrophages, revealing a person's cardiovascular health. The study found that foamy cells can be both beneficial and detrimental depending on their behavior in individuals with certain conditions.
A study by UConn Health and Washington University School of Medicine found that eating more meat correlates with worse MS symptoms, altered gut bacteria, and increased immune cells. The research identified key bacteria and metabolites associated with the disease, providing new insights into its causes.
Researchers develop small-molecule serial femtosecond crystallography, enabling precise analysis of complex materials. The technique reveals accurate atomic structures of previously unsolvable compounds.