Add BrightSurf on Google Email

University of Connecticut


Evolution makes the world less ragged

A team of international researchers found that evolution tends to dampen or smooth out variations in ecological patterns across landscapes. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, analyzed over 500 studies and identified 14 mechanisms affecting the direction of evolution's impact.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 2020

Buzzing to rebuild broken bone

A team of UConn engineers has developed a scaffold that generates a controllable electrical field to encourage bone growth, providing a new approach for treating serious injuries. The device uses non-toxic poly(L-lactic acid) polymer and remotely-controlled ultrasound to stimulate bone regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNano Energy·DateJun 30, 2020

Life-hack: Rituals spell anxiety relief

Researchers study rituals as a mechanism of resilience against anxiety, finding that performing familiar rituals reduces psychological and physiological stress. This approach suggests that ritual provides the brain with a sense of control and structure, alleviating stress and potentially coping with chronic anxiety.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London·DateJun 30, 2020

Gestures heard as well as seen

Researchers found that gesturing while speaking affects the sound of a person's voice, adding acoustic emphasis. The study suggests that gestures carry additional information about bodily tension and motion, contradicting traditional views on language.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

Even damaged livers can handle life-saving medication

A recent study published in Drug Metabolism and Disposition found that mice with drug-induced liver damage can safely take medications for diabetes, hypertension, and depression at lower doses. This breakthrough suggests that people with damaged livers may be able to continue taking life-saving medications while healing.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalDrug Metabolism and Disposition·DateFeb 28, 2020

Feeding bluebirds helps fend off parasites

New research shows that feeding bluebirds can significantly impact parasitic nest flies and improve nestling survival. The study found that supplementing birds with food reduces the parasite load and improves antibody levels, which help kill the parasites. The timing of feeding is also crucial, with early feeding benefiting young birds...

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateFeb 4, 2020