Author Archives: Diana Whitaker

A breakthrough study conducted by UCLA scientists was published last week, leading to further understanding of evolution by comparing the brains of humans and chimpanzees. The study found that evolution occurs not only on the level of individual genes, but also in the interaction between genes, called a network. Scientists say 6 million years ago […]

In a pill-popping culture, it seems common to reach for a bottle of capsules to cure common ailments such as headaches, insomnia, depression and pain. But for mild illness, there are alternative treatments, many of which have been used for centuries before manufactured drugs existed. For example, St. John’s Wort, a plant also known as […]

Though blood transfusions have the potential to save lives, the high-risk nature of blood donations make for a strict screening process for donors. “We consider both the health and safety of the donor, as well as the recipient, in making the evaluation,” said Jaime Rivas, platelet coordinator at the UCLA Blood and Platelet Center. According […]

A new UCLA study suggests the rapid growth of a huge northern bog complex may have helped activate global warming around the time of the ice age. The study may provide insight into current concerns about the impact of global warming on the planet. Peat bogs, which are masses of organic matter such as leaves […]

Peering more than 26,000 light years away, UCLA and NASA scientists using the Hubble Space Telescope have discovered 16 new planet candidates, leading them to conclude there are probably billions of planets spread throughout the galaxy. The discovery also marks the opening of a new category of planets, “Ultra-Short-Period Planets.” Five of these candidates complete […]

Taking the time to put on makeup and dress attractively may be biologically driven, a new UCLA and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire study suggests. The study showed that women pay more attention to their appearance near ovulation, when they are in their high-fertility phase, said Martie Haselton, the study’s lead author and a UCLA associate […]

Sudoku, crosswords and handheld games not only offer amusement but also keep the mind sharp, and are becoming more popular among older people, according to Gary Small, director of the UCLA Center on Aging. Mental exercises such as those games can help fight the effects of aging on the brain, he said. “Forgetfulness is a […]