University of Pennsylvania researchers have created nanoparticles that use the acidity of tooth decay to kill bacteria in dental plaque and prevent cavities. The treatment, which combines hydrogen peroxide with acid-sensitive nanoparticles, was shown to be highly effective at disrupting biofilms and killing bacteria.
The Penn researchers have developed a placenta-on-a-chip that accurately models the transport of nutrients across the placental barrier. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize research on preterm birth by providing a unique capability to mimic and study the function of the human placenta.
Researchers modeled co-evolution of antibodies and viruses to understand conditions for broadly neutralizing antibodies to emerge. They found that presenting the immune system with a large diversity of viral antigens may prompt the emergence of such potent antibodies, which could defeat broad swaths of viral strains.
A Penn-led team developed an oral vaccine booster that confers immunity against all three serotypes of polio, using a plant-based system to express a protein found in the polio virus. The vaccine induces mucosal and systemic immunity, neutralizing all three serotypes and offering a potential solution to global eradication efforts.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that as the economy recovers, fatal car crashes involving large trucks also rise. The research, led by Monica He, suggests that commercial trucks play a significant role in motor vehicle fatalities during better economic times.
A recent study by the University of Pennsylvania estimates that the average joint contains 0.32 grams of marijuana, significantly lower than previous estimates of 0.3-0.75 grams. This finding has important implications for understanding marijuana trafficking and revenue projections post-legalization.
Researchers found that mitochondrial stress triggers metabolic shifts through the p53 protein in cancer cells, leading to increased glycolysis and possible new targets for therapy. The study suggests that markers of metabolic stress could serve as a biomarker for cancer aggressiveness.
Researchers created a low-cost, portable genetic test for the Zika virus that can detect genetic material and requires no electricity or technical expertise. The test takes about 40 minutes to run and has shown sensitivity equivalent to RT-PCR tests.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania demonstrate a multiscale simulation of lead titanate oxide, providing new understanding of polarizations within these materials. The study shows that domain walls move across ferroelectric materials like wildfire, but can be easily stopped once the electric field is removed.
Researchers develop mathematical model of animal social networks, finding that newborns copy their mother's connections to form social relationships. The study captures key properties of observed networks in four diverse species, suggesting a simple 'social inheritance' mechanism drives social structure.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have identified distinct characteristics that differentiate reserve stem cells from label-retaining cells, resolving a decades-long debate. The study uses single-cell gene expression analyses to demonstrate that reserve stem cells are a separate population in the intestines.
A new study published in Scientific Reports found that smaller groups with longer memories are more likely to evolve cooperative strategies. This suggests that human societies' powerful memory capacity may have fed our ability to cooperate.
Researchers at Penn Vet found that a common blood test may also indicate hypercoagulability in animals. A study of hundreds of dogs found that shortened prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time were associated with clinical signs of hypercoagulability, including clots and suspected pulmonary thromboembolism.
A randomized control trial found that incorporating omega-3 supplements into the diets of children with extreme aggression can reduce this behavior in the short term, especially its impulsive and emotional form. The study also explored the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as a complementary treatment.
A doctoral student at the University of Pennsylvania has identified a new species of fossil dog, Cynarctus wangi, found in Maryland. The specimen, dating back to 12 million years ago, represents a distinct species from the extinct subfamily Borophaginae.
A new study from University of Pennsylvania researchers found that proper nutrition during childhood has a positive impact on social behaviors and development. The study analyzed 1,795 3-year-old children in Mauritius and found that those with better nutritional status had improved social behavior and cognitive function.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that lab-made stem cells often retain errors in DNA folding, leading to incomplete differentiation into adult cells. The team suggests ways to minimize these errors and has developed high-resolution maps of genome folding in iPS cells.
Researchers have identified a long non-coding RNA in the placenta that plays a crucial role in protecting the unborn baby from invading pathogens. The lncRNA, called lncRHOXF1, regulates the immune response and appears to be sensing and modulating its expression based on the presence of viruses.
Researchers found that large storms move about 50% more sediment than typical rainfall, but the overall contribution to erosion is smaller. River channels adjust their size to accommodate flow, setting a speed limit on erosion.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania found that sleep deprivation impairs protein production in the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for memory. By manipulating a gene involved in regulating protein synthesis, researchers were able to prevent these deficits and restore memory formation in mice.
Researchers analyzed astronaut quotes to understand the 'overview effect,' a sense of unity, vastness, and connectedness. They aim to induce similar feelings through virtual reality and create recommendations for maintaining astronaut well-being in extended space missions.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have created the first transistors made entirely of nanocrystal 'inks', opening up new possibilities for flexible and wearable electronics. The new process, which uses lower-temperature equipment, can be applied to larger areas and is compatible with a wide range of materials.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that the occipital place area (OPA) plays a key role in perceiving boundaries during navigation. By using transcranial magnetic stimulation to disrupt normal processing, the team found that participants made more errors navigating around boundaries but not landmarks.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new material that can produce hydrogen from sunlight and biomass-derived compounds, a step closer to creating a sustainable and clean energy source. The material uses titania nanorods to control the chemical reaction, increasing hydrogen production rates.
Researchers create a borylation reaction using methane, enabling the production of complex molecules like pharmaceuticals without releasing greenhouse gases. The study aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote sustainable use of abundant natural gas.
Researchers discovered that female lymphocytes lack proper X chromosome inactivation, leading to increased expression of immunity-related genes. This incomplete activation may contribute to autoimmune conditions like lupus, which affects 85% of female patients.
Researchers at Penn Vet have found that retinal cells continue to differentiate and divide before overwhelming cell death causes degeneration, a common feature of inherited blindness diseases. This study suggests that this feature may be present across many forms of inherited blindness.
A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has successfully reversed signs of naturally occurring chronic periodontitis in a preclinical model. By delivering the Cp40 inhibitor to periodontal tissue once a week, inflammation was significantly reduced and reversals were seen after six weeks.
A new Penn study links moving more with decreased mortality, finding even small amounts of physical activity can have a significant impact. Adding just 10 minutes of light activity per day can reduce the risk of mortality, according to the research published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
A Penn study found that using machine learning forecasts at arraignments can dramatically reduce subsequent domestic violence arrests. Machine learning analyzes data points like age, gender, and prior warrants to determine risk, offering extra information to courts.
A new Penn study reveals that fish induce production of a specific antibody, IgT, in response to pathogen exposure on their gills. The researchers found that IgT coats the microbiota in the gills, helping control the community of friendly microbes.
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that two acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, galantamine and donepezil, reduced nicotine consumption in rats and human participants. The treatment decreased cigarettes smoked daily by 12% and improved feelings towards smoking.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine have identified how the parasite <em>Toxoplasma gondii</em> infects the brain by tracking its movement and reproduction in living tissues. The study provides insights into treatment strategies to combat the parasite, which can be life-threatening for people w...
Using human ligament samples and polarized-light-based imaging, the Penn team has identified microscopic features that prefigure where failure occurs. This insight could lead to new diagnostic techniques or therapies for sub-failure injuries.
Researchers have discovered a unique application for an FDA-approved drug in treating cocaine dependence. The drug, Byetta, regulates feeding behavior and reduces cocaine self-administration when activated in the brain's reward region. Further studies aim to understand the brain's pathways involved in addiction.
Two Penn professors, Dorothy Roberts and Sarah Tishkoff, co-authored a piece in Science journal arguing that the use of genetic concepts of race is problematic and harmful. They recommend using terms like ancestry and population instead.
Penn researchers developed algorithms that can predict where a seizure will originate and which groups of neurons it will likely spread to. These predictions could provide a more objective way of identifying surgical targets, improving the success rate of such interventions.
Research from Penn Nursing and colleagues finds that parents with low health literacy need learner-driven education, while those with adequate literacy want flexible teaching. The study's findings suggest that healthcare providers should assess patient health literacy and use creative communication methods to improve patient outcomes.
African-Americans and Latinos show deeper mistrust of physicians due to cultural and socioeconomic factors. Physicians must consider structural competency, including a patient's neighborhood, policies, and institutions, to provide better care.
Phytoplankton play a crucial role in the ocean's food web and contribute to climate change by removing carbon from the atmosphere. Research reveals complex patterns of response to changing variables like nutrients, light, and ocean stratification, with predictions that global phytoplankton production will decrease.
Researchers found ancient lake deposits in Antarctica have remained frozen since at least 14 million years ago, supporting the idea that the East Antarctic Ice Sheet has also remained intact during past climates. This study provides new hope that the EAIS could be stable in today's and future climate conditions.
A study by Michael Platt at the University of Pennsylvania found that the amygdala influences positive social functions like kindness and charitable giving in humans. Rhesus macaques showed a neural response to recipient rewards, which was correlated with prosocial behavior.
A study in rural Malawi found that antiretroviral therapy (ART) not only benefits HIV-positive individuals but also those without the disease. ART reduced perceived mortality risk and led to increased productivity among HIV-negative people, particularly in terms of corn production.
A study published in Cell Reports reveals that the Musashi genes MSI1 and MSI2 play a key role in colon cancer development, acting redundantly with the Wnt pathway. Inhibiting these proteins blocks tumor growth in both human cells and mice, suggesting potential new targets for effective treatment.
A study conducted by Penn researchers found that teens understand the risks of distracted driving and cellphone use, but still engage in these behaviors. The study also revealed that context plays a significant role in how teens differentiate between texting and social media use.
Penn researchers develop ultra-thin aluminum oxide plates with nanoscale thickness, exhibiting remarkable mechanical strength and stiffness. These corrugated plates, like an egg carton on the nanoscale, can bend, twist, and recover their shape without additional support.
Researchers discovered that antiretroviral therapies can interfere with myelin production in the brain, leading to cognitive impairments. The study suggests a need for rethinking HIV drug design and prescription, particularly for children, to improve patient outcomes.
Researchers discovered that E. coli bacteria move faster and farther in viscoelastic fluids, such as saliva and mucus, than in water. This is because the increase in viscosity allows bacteria to maintain their rotational motion, enabling them to travel longer distances.
Biologists at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a new way that messenger RNA is regulated, which affects the production of proteins. The study found that modified mRNAs are more likely to be involved in stress responses and cell cycle control, suggesting a mechanism for dynamic regulation.
A 359 million-year-old mass extinction event triggered a drastic transformation in Earth's vertebrate community, with smaller fish dominating the oceans for at least 40 million years. The findings suggest that small, fast-reproducing fish possessed an evolutionary advantage over larger animals in the disturbed environment.