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Cardiff University


Hot drinks help fight cold and flu

New research by Cardiff University's Common Cold Centre found that hot fruit cordial provides immediate relief from cold symptoms. The study of 30 volunteers with common cold symptoms showed a 'hot' version of the drink to be effective in reducing symptoms such as runny nose and cough.

SourceCardiff University·JournalJournal of Rhinology·DateDec 10, 2008

Can we 'wipe out' MRSA?

A study by Cardiff University found that current hospital protocols for antimicrobial wipes can spread pathogens like MRSA. Implementing a single-use, one-surface-per-wipe approach could reduce MRSA incidence in hospitals.

Is Indy chasing a fake?

New research suggests two well-known crystal skulls, one in the British Museum and the Smithsonian Institution, did not come from ancient Mexico. The British skull was made in 19th century Europe, while the American one was created shortly before it was bought in Mexico City in 1960.

SourceCardiff University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateMay 23, 2008

Did the solar system 'bounce' finish the dinosaurs?

A Cardiff University study suggests that the sun's movement through the Milky Way causes comets to collide with Earth every 35-40 million years, coinciding with mass extinctions like the dinosaurs' extinction. This cosmic 'bounce' effect may also have helped life spread by dispersing micro-organisms into space.

SourceCardiff University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 2, 2008

A life 'lens' ordinary

Research from Cardiff University finds that a third of Down's syndrome children who wear bifocals can switch to ordinary glasses within two years. The study, led by Dr Maggie Woodhouse, reveals that bifocals may be 'teaching' children with the condition to use their own focusing ability.

Mold linked to asthma

A Cardiff University study found that removing indoor mold improved asthma symptoms, with a significant decrease in inhaler use and improvement of other respiratory issues. The study suggests keeping homes dry and well-ventilated can reduce exposure to mold spores.

SourceCardiff University·JournalThorax·DateSep 5, 2007

Giant panda can survive

A study by Cardiff University scientists suggests that human activities such as deforestation and poaching are driving the decline of the giant panda population. The research finds that conservation efforts should focus on habitat restoration and protection to ensure the species' survival.

SourceCardiff University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateAug 24, 2007

Today's waste, tomorrow's fuel

Researchers at Cardiff University are developing cost-effective methods to recycle platinum and other precious metals from road dust and vehicle exhausts. This innovative approach aims to produce clean fuel cells, minimizing waste and creating reliable, greener energy.

Climate change impacts stream life

A Cardiff University study found that climate change is causing a decline in springtime macroinvertebrate abundance by up to 21% for every 1 degree Celsius rise in temperature. The study predicts that species numbers could fall by 12-25% over the next 50 years.

SourceCardiff University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMay 4, 2007

Mystery of fossilized trees is solved

An international team of researchers has found evidence of the Earth's earliest forest trees, dating back 385 million years. The discovery includes upright stumps of fossilized trees that reached at least 8 meters in height, forming the first known forests on earth.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2007

Study examines genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified several genes involved in Alzheimer's disease development, with the GALP gene showing potential in reducing brain cell tangles, a hallmark of the disease. The study, which tested over 17,000 gene variants in 4,000 volunteers, aims to provide a knowledge base for new treatments and diagnostic tests.

SourceCardiff University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMar 5, 2007

Mystery of ancient astronomical calculator unveiled

Researchers have cracked the workings of the Antikythera Mechanism, a 2,000-year-old computer that tracked astronomical movements with remarkable precision. The ancient Greek device predicted eclipses and recreated the moon's irregular orbit, challenging previous assumptions about their technological capabilities.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2006

Reducing side effects of painkillers

Researchers at Cardiff University have found a link between low nitric oxide levels and increased risk of heart attack and stroke in patients taking NSAIDs. Lower nitric oxide levels may make individuals more susceptible to cardiovascular side effects from these medications.

SourceCardiff University·JournalBlood·DateSep 12, 2006

Funding to tackle hospital superbugs

Researchers at Cardiff University have been awarded £800,000 to commercially develop a protein-based therapeutic for treating infectious diseases. The 'Resolution Therapeutics' approach aims to enhance the body's natural defence mechanisms to promote infection clearance and reduce inflammation.

Study of twins finds genetic link to fatigue

A recent study published in The British Journal of Psychiatry found that genetic inheritance is the main cause of unexplained disabling fatigue in children. The research, conducted at Cardiff University, suggests that familial influences play a significant role in both short- and prolonged-duration fatigue.

SourceCardiff University·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 7, 2006

Illuminating science

Researchers have designed a new type of luminescent sensor that selectively detects zinc in biomedical imaging. The sensor uses europium and can be applied to scanning techniques such as MRI and luminescence imaging, offering potential for improved imaging depth and non-toxic applications.

SourceCardiff University·JournalDalton Transactions·DateJul 25, 2006

Brighter future for giant panda?

A recent study using DNA analysis from giant panda feces found the population underestimated by over 50% in previous surveys. The findings suggest a better chance of long-term viability for the species, but warn against complacency due to still-perilously low numbers.

SourceCardiff University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 19, 2006

New study of the world's smallest elephant

The Bornean elephant has been confirmed as a separate sub-species, with an estimated 1,100-1,500 individuals remaining in the wild. The Cardiff University study will provide essential conservation information and training for Malaysian organizations on wildlife monitoring techniques.

Food labels 'confuse' consumers

A new study by Cardiff University reveals that European food labels can be based on competing definitions of animal welfare, often reflecting different welfare standards. Welfare-friendly labels can be divided into three groups: explicit welfare content, implicit welfare component, and ambiguous welfare component.

Parental conflict can affect school performance

A recent study by Cardiff University suggests that frequent and poorly resolved conflicts between parents can have a negative impact on children's emotional, behavioural, and academic development. The study found that children living in such family environments are at greater risk for deficits in academic achievement.

Love at first … smell

A study by Cardiff University found that males with attractive body odor produce peptides that increase their sexual attractiveness to females. The research suggests that smell plays a crucial role in choosing a partner, particularly for humans and fish, and may be linked to immune genes.

SourceCardiff University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2005

Teenage highs and lows

A study of over 13,700 US school students found that those involved in substance use, delinquency, and school problems were at high risk for continued marijuana use. The study identified five stages of marijuana involvement and recommended targeting these areas for prevention efforts.

SourceCardiff University·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateMar 16, 2005

Working for a safer and more reliable electrical supply

A team of experts at Cardiff University will use sophisticated computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and field tests to improve understanding of faults and power surges. They aim to develop computer models that can predict voltages and currents following major faults, helping the National Grid network to become safer and more r...

Mapping the underwater world in 3-D

The new CodaOctopus laboratory will map extensive areas of the sea bed using novel 3-D methods, providing visualisation for scientists and strategic decision makers. This collaboration aims to focus research on commercial requirements, developing further Cardiff University's marine reputation.

£15 million cancer research coup

A team of Cardiff University researchers has secured a £15 million grant to explore DNA damage and disease. The group aims to unravel the complexities of how cells maintain their chromosomes, ultimately establishing cancer risks for individuals and designing new anti-cancer drugs.

Discovery reveals how the body regulates blood oxygen

Researchers at Cardiff University have identified an oxygen-sensing molecule, hemoxygenase-2, which helps the brain adjust breathing rates in response to low oxygen levels. The discovery has important implications for understanding and treating conditions where oxygen levels are scarce, such as following a stroke or during birth.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience·DateNov 15, 2004

E-learning attracts the 'usual suspects'

A Cardiff University study finds that e-learning attracts those who were already inclined to learn, with ICTs reinforcing existing patterns of education. Most adults use technology for informal purposes, such as hobbies and communication, rather than seeking formal learning.

Microscopic miracles

The development of nanomedicines has led to significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Thousands of patients are already benefiting from products used to treat conditions such as cancer, AIDS, and arthritis.