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Cardiff University


Oldest fossilized forest revealed

A team of researchers has discovered an entire fossil forest in upstate New York, revealing the oldest known tree stumps and new insights into the evolution of forests. The 385-million-year-old Gilboa fossil forest contains hundreds of large tree stumps with preserved roots, offering a glimpse into the Earth's ancient ecosystems.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature·DateFeb 29, 2012

Zinc control could be path to breast cancer treatment

Researchers have identified a key switch that releases zinc into cells, which could be used to block cancer development and halt tumor growth. Zinc levels are controlled by protein molecules called zinc transporters, and understanding how these transporters release zinc has important implications for disease treatment.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 6, 2012

Catalyzing new uses for diesel by-products

A new catalytic process at Cardiff University converts hydrocarbons from diesel production into oxygenated aromatics, including phthalic anhydride and coumarin. This breakthrough could lead to less waste and the creation of more useful chemicals for various industries.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 26, 2012

New stage in fighting pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Cardiff University have secured a £2M MRC Programme Grant to investigate the potential of a calcium-like molecule in protecting against enzymes that trigger pancreatitis. The team aims to better understand stellate cells, which may be the link between chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.

Welsh wound test could save NHS

Developed by Cardiff University, the test identifies a wound type based on its gene signature with an initial accuracy rate of 98%. It has the potential to transform service provision and provide the right treatment at the earliest possible opportunity.

800,000 years of abrupt climate variability

A team of scientists predicts that Earth's climate has undergone rapid transitions over the last 800,000 years, with evidence from ancient snow layers and volcanic eruptions. The study extends the current 100,000-year record to create a new testing ground for climate models.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2011

Climate change hits home

A new study by Cardiff University and Ipsos-MORI found that direct experience of extreme weather events like flooding can significantly affect people's perceptions of climate change. As a result, individuals who have experienced flooding are more prepared to take personal action and reduce their energy use.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 20, 2011

Baby stars born to 'napping' parents

Cardiff University astronomers propose that young stars' long naps could lead to the birth of smaller stars and planets. The researchers developed advanced computer models to simulate young star behavior, finding that disc fragmentation is possible in nature.

Happy hour linked to pub violence

A Cardiff University study found a strong link between happy hour-style drinking promotions and pub violence in the UK. The research suggests that premises with aggressive pricing strategies and lax staff monitoring are more likely to experience high levels of violence.

SourceCardiff University·JournalAlcohol and Alcoholism·DateMar 4, 2011

Sleeping Trojan horse to aid imaging of diseased cells

Researchers at Cardiff University have developed a 'sleeping Trojan horse' delivery system that enables the efficient transport of metal ions into cells, opening up new possibilities for medical imaging. This innovative approach resolves some of the difficulties associated with traditional 'Trojan Horse' techniques.

SourceCardiff University·JournalChemical Communications·DateFeb 17, 2011

Dramatic ocean circulation changes revealed

New research suggests ocean circulation changes may have caused severe cold intervals in Europe, with the Atlantic ocean capable of radical changes on short timescales. The study found that deep water formation switched off and on repeatedly, leading to warming and cooling centuries at a time.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 2011

Teenage girls face greater violence threat from poverty

A Cardiff University study reveals that living in a deprived area increases the risk of violence more sharply for girls than boys. The researchers found that assault injury rates were uniformly higher in the most deprived areas, and that the risk to girls was three times more sensitive to material deprivation.

SourceCardiff University·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·DateNov 29, 2010

Welsh scientists 'clone' human virus

Researchers at Cardiff University cloned a human virus, Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV), which is a major cause of congenital malformations and life-threatening disease in transplant patients. The cloning of HCMV has enabled the development of new treatments and vaccines against this virus.

SourceCardiff University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 13, 2010

Preserving our heritage

A new project aims to develop preservation strategies for heritage iron by measuring corrosion rates and assigning lifespans based on environmental conditions. The research team will test novel sensors and collaborate with museums and commercial sectors to optimize conservation, reducing energy expenditure and costs.

Climate threatens trout and salmon

A study by Cardiff University found that climate change is putting trout and salmon at risk due to warmer water and lower river levels. The research, published in Global Change Biology, suggests that both species face major problems if climate warming continues.

SourceCardiff University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMay 17, 2010

Cardiff takes a step towards quantum computing

Researchers at Cardiff University have successfully conducted experiments with photons, showing that pairs increase oscillation frequency and agreeing with theoretical predictions. The findings have long-term implications for information technology, including the potential to build logical systems based on quantum interactions.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 19, 2010

Smoking during pregnancy puts children at risk of psychotic symptoms

A recent study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry has linked maternal tobacco use to an increased risk of psychotic symptoms in children. The research, conducted on 6,356 adolescents, found that smoking during pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of psychotic symptoms, particularly in those whose mothers smoked heavily.

SourceCardiff University·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateOct 1, 2009

Evidence of liquid water in comets reveals possible origin of life

A new study published in the International Journal of Astrobiology claims that comets contained vast oceans of liquid water during their formation, providing ideal conditions for primitive bacteria to grow and multiply. The study's findings support the theory of cometary panspermia, which suggests that life was introduced to Earth by c...

SourceCardiff University·JournalInternational Journal of Astrobiology·DateJul 30, 2009

Climate-change set-back for acidified rivers

A new study by Cardiff University found that climate change is hindering the long-term recovery of rivers from the effects of acid rain. The research, which took place over a 25-year period, showed that up to 40% of improvements made in reducing acid rain have been canceled out due to climatic effects.

SourceCardiff University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateDec 12, 2008