A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics found new genetic variants that protect against human African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness, also increase the risk of developing chronic kidney disease. These variants were most common in Fulani pastoralist groups living in western and central Africa.
Researchers at Penn and two institutions developed a way to precisely design active elements of catalysts, identifying critical parameters for improvement. This new paradigm can fine-tune catalysts used in various applications, including environmental remediation and material production.
A new study by University of Pennsylvania psychologists reveals that early vocabulary improvement is linked to the quality of interactions, not just quantity. High-quality interactions with parents significantly predict a child's success throughout schooling.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania designed a variant of the mu opioid receptor, which can be grown in large quantities in bacteria and is water-soluble, enabling experiments that were previously challenging or impossible. The new design allows for further iterations to be easily made alongside experimental conditions.
A benign bone tumor has been discovered in a 120,000-year-old Neandertal rib fragment, providing a unique link to modern humans. The fibrous dysplasia tumor was identified through advanced imaging techniques and sheds light on the health of ancient human populations.
A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania has made a significant breakthrough in developing new therapies to replace cartilage tissue. Researchers have found that mimicking cadherin interactions can trick adult stem cells into producing better cartilage, offering a promising alternative to current surgical options.
Researchers have discovered biomolecular archaeological evidence of grape wine and winemaking in southern France, dating back to the 6th-5th century BCE. The findings confirm that ancient Etruscan amphoras introduced wine to the region, leading to the establishment of a native Celtic or Gallic vinicultural industry.
A new study led by the University of Pennsylvania reveals that the New Jersey coast has experienced a 10,000-year record of continuous sea-level rise, with varying rates of increase over time. The research suggests that climate change may trigger catastrophic melting of ice sheets, leading to higher rates of sea-level rise and increasi...
A team of University of Pennsylvania physicists has made progress in the development of a new gene sequencing technique using solid-state nanopores. The researchers successfully differentiated single-stranded DNA molecules containing sequences of a single repeating base, achieving a promising breakthrough in this area.
A team of Penn engineers has created a new infrared sensor using nanoantennas, allowing for more sensitive detection and compact designs. The device works by connecting mechanical motion to temperature changes, reducing the need for bulky equipment and expensive materials.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania used a fossil-based technique to study the 1700 Cascadia earthquake and its impact on coastal land levels. The study revealed that the rupture was heterogeneous, similar to recent major earthquakes in Japan, Chile, and Sumatra.
Researchers led by Paulo E. Arratia at the University of Pennsylvania discovered that turbulence can arise in non-Newtonian fluids, such as blood and fracking liquids, without requiring significant inertia. This finding has significant implications for understanding fluid dynamics on small scales.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that children as young as 2 understand basic grammar rules when they first learn to speak, contradicting a long-held debate. The research also applied statistical analysis to data from the famous Project Nim experiment and found that Nim Chimpsky never grasped such rules.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have found that a stem cell's environment influences its differentiation into various cell types, with 'grip' playing a crucial role. The study suggests that three-dimensional matrices impact mechanotransduction, guiding stem cell fate and differentiation.
For the first time, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have successfully enabled 'bulk' silicon to emit broad-spectrum, visible light. This breakthrough enables the use of elemental silicon in both electronic and photonic components, paving the way for more efficient and integrated devices.
Researchers found that nearly a million measurements show two-thirds of Philadelphia vowels are changing, with some shifts towards Northern influences. The study spans over a century and involves over 1,000 people.
New research from University of Pennsylvania psychologists suggests that changing one's mind about delaying gratification can be a rational decision when the timing of the payoff is uncertain. The study found that people tend to overestimate how long they will have to wait, leading to decreased self-control.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a nanotube-based diagnostic device that can detect Lyme disease bacteria in the blood, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment. The device uses laboratory-produced antibodies to bind to proteins from the organism, providing an electronic read-out of its presence.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania discovered that inhibiting the brain's filter can improve performance in creative tasks. Inhibiting the left prefrontal cortex reduced missed responses and increased correct answers by a second when completing an uncommon-use task.
Research by University of Pennsylvania doctoral candidate Jessica Ho reveals that excess mortality among Americans younger than 50 accounts for much of the US life-expectancy shortfall. Noncommunicable diseases, such as pregnancy complications and drug overdoses, are key factors contributing to this gap.
A new study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine found that maternal stress exposure affects the developing brains of male and female offspring differently. The researchers discovered a biomarker, Ogt, which may signal to the fetus that its mother has experienced stress.
Penn researchers create a protein 'passport' that allows nanoparticles to bypass the immune system, facilitating targeted drug delivery and implant device functionality. The innovative approach could improve treatment efficacy by reducing inflammation and prolonging nanoparticle retention.
A University of Pennsylvania-led study quantifies sediment transported to wetlands by the 2011 Mississippi flood, which may help maintain the area's wetlands. The research found that the flood deposited more than half a year's worth of sediment in some areas, making it a key factor in maintaining wetland elevations.
Researchers at Penn Vet have identified a new pathway for stimulating bone growth using the protein Jagged-1. This discovery has the potential to treat bone fractures and improve outcomes for patients with rare metabolic conditions like Alagille syndrome.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new microscopy method to study wear at the atomic scale. They successfully demonstrated the transfer of material from one surface to another, revealing the mechanisms behind this process. The findings provide crucial insights into improving nanoscale devices and machines.
A new study by the University of Pennsylvania has found that owl monkeys who stay with one partner produce 25% more offspring per decade than those who switch partners. This finding suggests that long-term monogamy and pair-bonding can improve reproductive fitness in certain individuals.
Researchers found that different particles create smooth or rough deposition profiles at the drop edge depending on their shape. They tested Poisson and KPZ processes, two classes of interfacial growth processes, and discovered elongated particles produced a KPZ class of growth.
Researchers have identified mitochondrial CYP2D6 as a potential target for mitigating Parkinson's disease. The study found that mitochondrial CYP2D6 can effectively metabolize MPTP, a compound causing brain cell damage in Parkinson's, and that inhibiting its activity reduces neuronal degeneration.
Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania have created a new way to direct the assembly of liquid crystals, generating small features that spontaneously arrange in arrays based on much larger templates. By altering the geometry of molecules on a physical template, researchers can produce subtle changes in defect patterns.
A recent University of Pennsylvania study published in Geology has challenged the long-held assumption that mountains play a significant role in regulating the Earth's climate. The research found that mountains contribute only a small amount of sediment to the world's oceans, and instead, gently sloping land areas are major contributors.
Using metamaterials, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a theory for creating materials where electrons have nearly zero effective mass. This concept could lead to faster circuits with unique properties. The team's idea was inspired by the similarities between electromagnetic waves and quantum mechanics, and t...
A study published in the Journal of Immunology suggests that blocking the activity of C5aR can effectively prevent and treat periodontitis. Researchers found that mice treated with a molecule blocking C5aR developed less inflammation and bone loss compared to those without treatment.
A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has developed flexible, low-voltage electronic circuits using cadmium selenide nanocrystals. The new technology offers improved performance and manufacturing cost compared to traditional silicon-based electronics, enabling potential biomedical and security applications.
A class of small RNA molecules called pachytene piwi-interacting RNAs plays a critical role in allowing sperm to develop normally. Defects in these molecules or their interactions may be responsible for some cases of male infertility, according to new research by Penn Vet researchers.
The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine has received a $1.5 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration to provide four-year financial aid for at least 26 new and current students. The grant aims to increase access for underrepresented minorities, supporting diversity in dental education.
A comparative medicine study by Penn vet scientists identifies a new strategy for enhancing the effects of interferon in fighting off infection. The research suggests that targeting a particular molecule, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 B (PTP1B), can boost the activity of a person's own interferon.
A team of University of Pennsylvania geologists observed how sediment was deposited in the Mississippi Delta during the 2011 flood. They found that diverting water into the Atchafalaya River Basin built up sediment in wetland areas, whereas the Mississippi River plume had a more focused and less sediment-rich effect.
University of Pennsylvania researchers have found a new way to prevent cracks in nanoparticle films by using a technique called spin-coating to create uniform coatings. This method could be a game-changer for industries that rely on these films, such as electronics and solar cells.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a method to generate structural color and superhydrophobicity in materials. By using holographic lithography and poor solvents, they can create 3D networks that produce bright colors and repel water.
Researchers found that baboon females with 'nice' personalities formed strong social bonds, which led to better health and reproductive outcomes. In contrast, those with 'aloof' or 'loner' traits had weaker social connections and lower fitness levels.
A new study led by University of Pennsylvania researchers has identified a crucial signaling molecule involved in counterbalancing the immune system attack. Regulatory T cells, or Tregs, play a key role in suppressing inflammatory responses and preventing autoimmune diseases.
A Penn team led by Joshua Hawk identified nuclear receptors as key molecules in converting short-term memories into long-term ones. The study found that blocking the activity of these receptors impaired contextual memory, while leaving amygdala-associated memories intact.
Researchers at Penn Vet found that a compound derived from the Coriolus versicolor mushroom, called polysaccharopeptide, significantly lengthened survival times for dogs with hemangiosarcoma. The study showed promising results, with some dogs living beyond a year without traditional chemotherapy.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed an all-optical photonic switch made from cadmium sulfide nanowires, enabling faster and more efficient light manipulation. This breakthrough paves the way for significant advancements in photonics and its applications in computing.
Researchers have developed a material that catalyzes the burning of methane 30 times better than currently available catalysts. The discovery could lead to a cleaner and cheaper way of generating energy from natural gas, potentially reducing emissions of powerful greenhouse gas.
A recent genomic study of 15 African hunter-gatherers sheds light on human diversity, evolution, and ancient interbreeding. The analysis identifies millions of previously unknown genetic mutations and suggests that different groups evolved distinct traits to adapt to local environments.
A study by Penn's Daniel Janzen and colleagues reveals that four-fifths of protected forest areas have experienced declines in health, with half suffering more serious losses. The research highlights the challenges faced by conservation efforts, including human encroachment, logging, and climate change.
A study by researchers from Penn, Michigan, and Duke found that alpha male geladas who allowed subordinate competitors into their group had a longer tenure as leader and averaged three more offspring. The findings suggest cooperation among unrelated adult males can benefit the dominant male's reproductive career.
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania develop new approach to making vesicles and fine-tuning their shapes using genetic engineering. They successfully assemble oleosin into vesicles, which offer significant advantages for oral-drug delivery due to their biocompatibility and ability to carry large payloads.
Researchers at Penn University have developed a method to rapidly create vasculature using 3D printed templates of filament networks, improving the function of engineered living tissues. They used a material composed of sugar and other compounds to create stable vascular systems that can be easily dissolved and replaced with cells.