A small study by University of Florida researchers suggests that as we age, we may become more sensitive to pain and experience a quicker and higher magnitude inflammation. This could predispose older adults to chronic pain, making anti-inflammatory medication an early treatment option.
New research confirms Zika virus was present in Haiti and possibly earlier, contradicting early theories on its spread in the Americas. The discovery sheds light on the virus's history and suggests a more complex spread than initially thought.
The discovery of the fossil monkey provides evidence for the interchange of mammals between South and North America, challenging long-held views of South America as an island continent. The new genus and species, Panamacebus transitus, suggests that monkeys may have unintentionally rafted across on mats of vegetation.
Researchers created a mouse model that closely replicates the symptoms and gene expression patterns of ALS and frontotemporal dementia. The model allows scientists to understand how the C9orf72 gene mutation causes paralysis and dementia, and potentially develop treatments.
Researchers have slowed glioblastoma tumor growth in mouse models using a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet. The modified diet increased life expectancy by 50% and reduced tumor progression by a similar amount.
A new study by University of Florida researchers found that victorious ant colonies recruit members of losing colonies to help defend their territory. After analyzing DNA from nearly 800 ants, the team discovered that fighting changes the genetic makeup of victorious colonies, allowing them to form lasting truces with former foes.
Researchers find Tanana Arctic butterfly, a possible new species of hybrid butterfly from Alaska's interior. The discovery suggests ancient hybridization between Arctic butterfly species.
Researchers have identified a new strain of bacteria A12 that can help neutralize acid and kill Streptococcus mutans, a harmful type of streptococcal bacteria. This discovery may lead to the development of a probiotic supplement to prevent cavities.
A University of Florida study found that less than one-quarter of patients with prediabetes received treatment from their primary care physician. Prediabetes is a common condition that increases the risk of vascular problems and diabetes, yet many people remain undiagnosed or untreated.
A University of Florida Health study found that 88% of teens who misused prescription stimulants got them from someone else. The study also highlighted differences in behavior and friend networks between those who exclusively used stimulants non-medically and those who reported both medical and non-medical use.
Researchers have found that laser ablation creates a temporary opening in the blood-brain barrier, allowing chemotherapy drugs to pass into the brain. This breakthrough raises hopes for longer treatment options and improved patient outcomes.
A study by UF Health researchers found that most Yik Yak postings were focused on campus life and announcements, with only 13% containing profanity or vulgarities. The team collected 4,001 posts from 42 campuses across the US and did not find any yaks that would warrant a ban.
Researchers found testosterone treatment improved all aspects of sexual function, including sexual activity and desire, in men with low testosterone levels. However, the study did not confirm earlier concerns about cardiovascular safety.
A new study by the University of Florida found that shelter staff frequently misidentify dog breeds based on appearance, which can lead to negative outcomes for the dogs. The study evaluated DNA profiles and visual identification, finding limited agreement among staff members.
Researchers present an experimental Ebola vaccine with 100% efficacy against the virus in West Africa and propose a novel vaccination strategy using ring vaccination. This innovative approach could be adapted to combat other emerging threats like Zika virus.
Researchers found diverse communities inhabit plastic debris with barnacles creating complex habitat, similar to trees or corals. This could allow foreign species to invade natural coastlines, compromising biodiversity.
Researchers discovered a link between prenatal stress and lower birth weight in children born to mothers experiencing trauma in war-torn regions. The study also found that stressful life experiences can affect genes involved in the body's response to stress, with long-term consequences for child development.
The study reveals the mechanics of dopamine transport into and out of neurons, shedding light on its role in various brain-related functions. The findings have significant implications for understanding and treating diseases related to dopamine imbalance, such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia.
Researchers at the University of Florida have discovered a protein that stimulates fat metabolism when stressed, leading to weight gain. The study found betatrophin, a previously touted diabetes treatment, has a new role in regulating body fat.
Researchers have found that a cancer drug can neutralize the toxic RNA responsible for myotonic dystrophy type 1. The study used actinomycin D to inhibit toxic expansions in DNA, correcting mis-splicing and reducing symptoms.
A University of Florida Health study found that increasing alcohol taxes can decrease gonorrhea rates by 24 percent. The tax increase resulted in 2,400 fewer statewide cases of gonorrhea in Maryland during the 18 months after it went into effect.
A new University of Florida study suggests that coral reefs may be more vulnerable to nutrient pollution from human activities, even with the presence of herbivores. The research highlights the need for a holistic approach to protecting these ecosystems.
A World Health Organization task force found that up to 33 million healthy life years are lost each year due to foodborne diseases. Diarrheal disease agents were the most frequent causes of foodborne illness, particularly norovirus and Campylobacter spp.
A new study finds that malaria risk in Africa is shifting due to climate change, with the highest-risk transmission zone moving eastward and expanding into new areas by 2080.
Researchers have discovered that climate-induced glaciation during ice ages can wear down mountains at a rate comparable to plate tectonics' ability to build them. Over a million-year period, erosion accelerated sharply due to global climate cooling, outpacing mountain building by 50-80 percent.
Researchers have developed a simple and rapid way to treat an immune-related disorder in mice, which could eventually help multiple sclerosis patients. The approach attaches disease-related protein fragments to spleen cells, preventing brain and spinal cord inflammation.
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified genes that are disrupted by abnormal hormone signaling, leading to male genital birth defects. The study found a narrow window of development when genetic malformations can occur, and pinpointed 22 genes expressed in embryonic genitalia.
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed genetically modified citrus trees that exhibit enhanced resistance to greening, reducing disease severity and even remaining disease-free after 36 months. The study, published in PLOS ONE, used a gene isolated from Arabidopsis to create the new trees.
UF Health researchers have discovered four novel proteins that contribute to Huntington's disease by accumulating in the brain and killing neurons. The proteins, known as RAN proteins, are made without a signal in the genetic code and build up as aggregated clusters that lead to cell death.
New findings reveal how betel nut's psychoactive chemical works in the brain, suggesting an addiction treatment may already exist. Researchers found that the active ingredient, arecoline, acts on the same receptor proteins as nicotine, raising the possibility of using existing anti-smoking drugs to treat betel nut addiction.
A type of bacteria, Thiomicrospira crunogena, produces an enzyme, carbonic anhydrase, that can convert industrial carbon dioxide into bicarbonate. The enzyme has high thermal stability and could be used in industrial settings to neutralize greenhouse gases.
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified a type of deep-sea bacteria that can convert industrial carbon dioxide into bicarbonate, a process that could help neutralize greenhouse gases. The enzyme produced by the bacterium has high thermal stability, making it suitable for industrial applications.
A University of Florida Health researcher has discovered a key clue about betel nut addiction, finding that the nut's psychoactive chemical works in the brain similarly to nicotine. This raises the possibility that prescription drugs used to break nicotine dependence could also be effective against betel nut addiction.
A study of fossil species on Great Abaco Island reveals that humans were more significant a threat to island biodiversity than climate change. The discovery highlights the impact of human activities such as habitat alteration and introduction of invasive species, which can lead to rapid extinctions.
Researchers identified key locations for sampling and managing insect and fungal problems along US and Australian rail routes. The analysis revealed that North Dakota, Illinois, Kansas, and Nebraska are critical hubs linking states together.
Researchers have identified a virus-drug combination that shows improved effectiveness against brain tumor cells, specifically glioblastoma. The combination of the myxoma virus and certain existing drugs, such as axitinib, reduces tumor-initiating cell viability by 20% or more.
A study by University of Florida scientist Derek Cummings found that high temperatures during strong El Niño seasons increase dengue incidence in Southeast Asia. Urban areas act as 'pacemakers' for traveling waves of epidemics moving to nearby rural areas.
Researchers have found that a protein called FAK plays a key role in the development of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. A two-drug combination has been shown to be more effective than everolimus alone in killing cancer cells and reducing tumor volume.
Researchers discovered that a stress-coping hormone boosts amyloid beta production, leading to brain degeneration and Alzheimer's disease. The study strengthens the idea of a link between stress and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found a stress-coping hormone releases a protein fragment called amyloid beta, which clumps together and leads to Alzheimer's disease. The study strengthens the idea of a link between stress and Alzheimer's, providing insight into potential treatment approaches.
A recent study found that larger and private colleges are more likely to have hookah cafes and lounges nearby, despite smoke-free policies decreasing these chances. The study suggests that economic factors may play a role in the increased odds of hookah establishments near private institutions.
A study by University of Florida Health researchers found that stroke victims with private insurance had lower mortality rates, shorter hospital stays, and fewer complications compared to those on Medicaid. The study analyzed nationwide data from over 1.5 million hospital admissions between 2002 and 2011.
A new Medicaid health care program in Texas has improved care for disabled adults with chronic conditions like heart attacks and COPD. The program's managed care component led to better adherence to recommended standards of care during acute events, such as heart attacks and worsening of COPD.
Researchers have developed a new therapy that slows the spread of deadly brain tumor cells by disrupting their communication pathway. The treatment improved patient survival by 50% in a mouse model and has potential as an adjunct to traditional chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Researchers found that body fat can send signals to the brain, affecting its regulation of energy balance and stress responses. This discovery sheds new light on the relationship between stress, obesity, and metabolism.
A study by University of Florida researchers found that body fat can send signals to the brain, affecting how it deals with stress and metabolism. The discovery reveals a novel fat-to-brain feedback network that was previously thought to be mainly driven by the brain.
A University of Florida study found that encountering rude behavior at work makes people more likely to perceive rudeness in later interactions, leading to a vicious cycle. The study's findings provide evidence that everyday impoliteness spreads in the workplace, having a powerful negative effect on performance.
Scientists found that past temperatures similar to current global average led to at least 20-foot sea-level rise. The study suggests polar ice sheets are out of equilibrium with the present climate and may respond similarly to current warming trends.
Researchers discovered that rapamycin, a pharmaceutical used to prevent transplant rejection, reduces body fat and appetite in older rats, preserving lean body mass. The drug targets how the body makes leptin, a hormone that affects hunger and metabolism.
Researchers have discovered that an existing drug, rapamycin, reduces body fat and appetite in older rats, preserving lean body mass. The study's findings have implications for developing anti-obesity treatments for aging humans, with potential benefits including improved health outcomes.