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University of Georgia


Study links improved consumer welfare to increased prescription drug advertising efforts

A study by Jayani Jayawardhana found that direct-to-consumer advertising of cholesterol-reducing prescription medications leads to improved consumer welfare. The research also suggests that targeted advertising efforts towards physicians can inform their selection of the drug, leading to better health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalInternational Journal of Industrial Organization·DateNov 26, 2012

UGA researchers boost efficacy of drugs by using nanoparticles to target 'powerhouse of cells'

Researchers at UGA have developed a new method for delivering drugs to mitochondria, increasing the effectiveness of cancer, Alzheimer's, and obesity treatments. The approach uses biodegradable nanoparticles to target the 'powerhouse of cells', resulting in improved survival rates for brain cells and reduced fat production.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2012

UGA chemistry discovery could have major medical implications

Researchers at UGA have made a major medical breakthrough by discovering how an oxygen-sensing bacterial protein senses oxygen through reversible structural changes in an iron-sulfur cluster. This mechanism could ultimately lead to a better understanding of the aging process and new treatments for human diseases.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2012

Study provides first evidence of coevolution between invasive, native species

A University of Georgia study reveals that native clearweed plants have evolved resistance to invasive garlic mustard, and the invasive species is countering with its own chemical warfare. The study provides evidence of coevolution between native and invasive plant species, suggesting a potential for ecosystem equilibrium over time.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 2012

Facebook makes us feel good about ourselves

A study published in Computers in Human Behavior found that editing social media profiles on Facebook increases self-esteem, while using MySpace leads to higher levels of narcissism. Researchers also discovered that the differences in site format between MySpace and Facebook may contribute to these findings.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJun 26, 2012

Hazelnuts improve infant formula

Researchers at the University of Georgia have developed a new infant formula using hazelnut oil that better mimics the structure of human milk. This design improves the digestion and absorption of essential fatty acids, including DHA and ARA, which are crucial for infant development.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMay 25, 2012

Black flies may have a purpose after all

Researchers at the University of Georgia discovered a protein in black fly saliva that inhibits clotting and reduces inflammation. This finding has potential applications for treating patients recovering from heart attacks and developing a vaccine against river blindness.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 9, 2012

UGA study offers hope for hemlock attack

Researchers at the University of Georgia have found that releasing ladybird beetles in the upper crown of infested trees can effectively control hemlock woolly adelgid populations. The study suggests a new approach to managing the invasive pest, which has been killing Eastern hemlocks across the southeastern US.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateJan 10, 2012

UGA scientists 'hijack' bacterial immune system

Researchers have discovered how to harness the bacterial immune system to selectively target and silence genes. This finding has far-reaching implications for biotechnology and biomedical research, allowing for the modification of gene expression in bacteria used for biofuels and pharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 5, 2012