University of Cincinnati researchers have developed new techniques to analyze selenium in food supplements, identify arsenic accumulation in seafood and sea plants, and speed up sample preparation using microwave energy. These advancements hold promise for environmental health, bioremediation, and understanding metal toxicity.
A psychologist has developed low-cost methods to reduce pharmacy errors, including the use of larger labels, focused task lighting, and self-monitoring journals. These inexpensive changes can significantly improve accuracy and are relevant for small community drug stores that may not have access to high technology.
Researchers created a virtual crash test dummy to predict head and chest injuries during accidents. The simulation shows that multiple impacts result in more severe injuries, regardless of the vehicle model involved.
A nationwide study found that 87% of high school counselors believe it's their job to recognize teens at risk for suicide, but only 38% feel they can identify warning signs. The study recommends more thorough training and crisis-intervention teams.
A recent study by David J. Maume Jr. found that 44% of men are promoted after 12 years, compared to 15% of white women, 7% of black women, and 17% of black men. Discrimination was the only factor controlling promotion rates across professions.
Researchers at UC have developed a novel method for detecting early signs of artery blockages using Doppler ultrasound, which can accurately predict turbulence intensity and detect atherosclerosis. This non-invasive technique is safer than current methods requiring ionizing radiation or pressure transducer insertion.
Researchers have combined laser heating and ultrasonic inspection to improve the detection of fatigue cracks in aircraft parts. The new method is more accurate than previous methods, but also more time-consuming and expensive.
Researchers found increased genetic diversity in cattails growing in the most polluted sites, contradicting previous studies on animal populations. The team's findings suggest that cattails may be an effective indicator of environmental stress.
The University of Cincinnati researchers have created a novel microsensor for monitoring radioactive and hazardous wastes in the Hanford nuclear facility. The sensor offers three-way selectivity and high sensitivity, allowing it to detect compounds at the nanomolar level.
UC and CREW biologists use a basic hole-puncher to collect plant samples, then study how to protect them from dehydration and rehydration. They discover that plants secrete a hormone called abscisic acid to protect themselves during dry times.
University of Cincinnati engineer Peter Smirniotis has received a $270,000 NATO Science for Peace grant to collaborate with Russian scientists on degrading toxic chemical weapons. The project aims to minimize environmental harm and potentially lead to a marketable product that can help Russia boost its economy.
UC Engineers create RACE, a technique that redesigns computer hardware to adapt to user demands. The approach results in significant speed boosts for applications like image processing, enabling desktop computers to approach supercomputer speeds.
Researchers tested four types of on-hold music with 71 clients, finding that time spent waiting was generally overestimated. Alternative music emerged as a good choice, as it evoked less polarized reactions and shorter wait times.
Researchers are searching for evidence that can support or refute the hypothesis that Uintacrinus could have floated, a staggering feat considering its size. Geologists Meyer and Milsom have found new fossil material in Kansas and Colorado, which will help them understand how crinoids were preserved and potentially answer this question.
Geologist Attila Kilinc proposes a new model to explain the forces behind explosive eruptions on Montserrat, citing the oxidation state of magma. The model suggests that mixing hotter and cooler magma leads to water formation, triggering an eruption. Further development of a detection system is needed to accurately predict eruptions.
Research by University of Cincinnati geologist Thomas Lowell reveals that the ice sheet advances over land marched in step with the iceberg calving events over the ocean. The findings suggest that both land and sea events are responding to global cooling, reinforcing the pattern rather than initiating the change.
Mass extinctions may not be fundamentally different from local catastrophes in their impact on global diversity. According to University of Cincinnati geologist Arnold Miller, regional and local bursts of diversification occur at different times around the world, contributing to a misleading picture of diversification trends.
The survey found that 82% of Russian husbands and 79% of wives prefer husbands to earn the household income, contrary to earlier US studies. In contrast, 50% of Russian women manage the family's income, with one-third of both genders preferring this role.
Researchers have found that Sulfolobus acidocaldarius exhibits a very high rate of genetic recombination, with 95% of mutations producing recombinants. This suggests an alternative mechanism of DNA repair beyond classical recombination, which may be driven by the microbe's exposure to oxidative stress.
Researchers uncover evidence of complex behaviors, symbolic thinking, and problem-solving among early humans in southern China. Large mammal remains show signs of human intervention, such as burning and cutting marks, suggesting a deliberate process of collection and use.
A University of Cincinnati computer model is being used to study the most cost-effective plans for species preservation. The model, developed by researchers Jeffrey Camm and Amy Ando, takes into account both species distributions and land values to provide a more flexible and economical approach.
Cincinnati marketing researchers have created a comprehensive test to measure an individual's need for levity, exploring the link between humor, whimsy, and human behavior. The study found that people tend to score high on external-humor, with men perceiving themselves as jokesters more often than women.
A team of researchers from the University of Cincinnati and other institutions has identified the first gene responsible for age-related hearing loss in mice. The Ahl gene is located on mouse Chromosome 10 and appears to be a single, recessive trait that causes significant hearing losses in older mice.
The US EPA has established a Drinking Water Optimization Institute at the University of Cincinnati to help utilities comply with new regulations. The institute will focus on optimizing water treatment methods, distribution systems, and raw water sources to meet safety standards.
A Cincinnati planning researcher has identified neighborhoods defying high infant mortality rates, including Riverside, Northside, and East End/Linwood. These areas have implemented factors such as community engagement and local initiatives that contribute to lower infant death rates.
A University of Cincinnati geologist presents evidence from ancient volcanic ash beds indicating a narrow Iapetus Ocean existed during the Ordovician period. The discovery contradicts previous theories that the ocean disappeared due to landmasses being locked together.
Geologist Arnie Miller's research reveals regional origins of radiations in Ordovician fossils, contradicting the global diversity trend. Localized tectonic activity and emergence of volcanoes triggered diversification on different paleo-continents.
David Meyer presents evidence that ancient crinoid Uintacrinus could float using a new model. The model explains the organism's ability to support its weight and collect food particles at the sea surface.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a modified filtration system that effectively traps heavy metals and improves water quality. The partial exfiltration trench (PET) system shows trapping efficiencies ranging from 82 to 97 percent, even in heavy rainstorms.
Researchers uncovered a sculpted marble head of Emperor Augustus, measuring slightly larger than life, in near-perfect condition. The discovery was made by an excavation team led by University of Cincinnati archaeologist Brian Rose, who recognizes the statue due to its distinctive hairstyle and facial features.
The MeasureNet system provides quick access to data, allowing teams of students to share and analyze results. By phasing it in over the last academic year, all students in first-year labs were using the system by spring quarter 1997, with overwhelmingly positive reactions.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a system to synthesize and screen novel beta-lactam antibiotics, including some effective against extremely low levels of bacteria. The process takes about two days and produces over 1,000 novel compounds with potential for use in antibiotic skin patches.
Peter Nagy's research uses laser irradiation to pinpoint damage specific to fatigue in older aircraft. By detecting changes in metal behavior when heated, he can identify the inherent degradation of materials and prevent further cracking.
The University of Cincinnati engineers have created a unique high-performance concrete (HPC) mix that significantly strengthens conventional concrete. Tests show the HPC can last up to 80 years without major maintenance due to its denser material and resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.
Astronomers have found similarities between the composition of Comet Hale-Bopp and what appear to be similar-sized comets in other solar systems. The team used infrared observations of evolving solar systems to identify patterns in star-grazing comets, suggesting a common origin for planets.
Researchers have developed a new treatment using human mesenchymal stem cells that can regenerate tissue and reduce healing time after tendon surgery. The treatment has shown promising results in animal models, with improved tendon repair strength and quality of tissue within four weeks.
Researchers have developed a theory to explain the sudden change of rare earth mirror materials into transparent windows when exposed to hydrogen. This phenomenon has potential applications in smart windows for energy savings.
A study by Joel Milgram found that a small number of teenagers successfully completed high school while living alone, with most valuing the sense of freedom. Despite struggling with poverty and parental conflicts, these students maintained academic performance and even improved their lives through independent means.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati present success stories in bioremediation and risk assessment, including bacteria strains capable of breaking down toxic compounds like N-heterocyclics and PAHs. A team develops ultra-trace methods to detect metal pollutants, improving accurate risk assessment.
A Vietnamese chemist, Vu-Thi-Yen, has developed a new method to improve the durability of rubber products by blending it with cardanol, an oil extracted from cashew shells. The blended rubber is stronger and longer-lasting than plain latex, showing potential applications in various industries.
Researchers found higher Down syndrome prevalence among Hispanic mothers under 40, lower rates among older mothers, compared to white counterparts. Prenatal genetic testing usage also showed significant differences between ethnic groups.
Geologists have discovered that the Ontong Java Plateau, a 40km-thick oceanic feature, formed from eruptions over just three million years, defying current geologic theories. The rocks' unique geochemical characteristics suggest they were created in high-pressure environments, with pressures potentially exceeding eight kilobars.
A new index developed by Jamie Coleman and David Styer uses bird counts to evaluate the condition of wetland habitats. The model identifies thriving wetlands with high water-loving bird populations and declining wetlands with fewer birds adapted to drier environments.
Researchers Ebersole and Miller analyzed fossil data and found no regional differences in extinction rates during the Late Permian mass extinction event. They also discovered that environmental zones and latitude had little impact on the severity of the extinction, suggesting a global cause.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati and US EPA found that water-saving shower nozzles can increase lung trouble risk due to finer spray particles, which can stir up contaminants and microbes growing in biofilms
A new system called PET traps heavy metals in stormwater runoff, using a bed of oxide-coated sand and porous pavement concrete block. The system can virtually eliminate nickel, cadmium, lead and zinc from stormwater runoff for up to ten years.
A Cincinnati bridge has become a national test site for researchers seeking better ways to monitor the nation's highways. The bridge's design is similar to tens of thousands of other bridges still in use, making it an ideal test site. It was found that daily temperature changes can be just as devastating as heavy traffic loads.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed an experimental system to match inlet and engine components, addressing a critical issue in aircraft design. The system combines a small jet engine with a special inlet to improve stability and predictability, enabling safer and more efficient flight.
Researchers found that mice without thyroid hormone receptor beta are deaf, even though they appear healthy. The study suggests that this gene controls hearing development, and its loss may cause human genetic forms of deafness.
A team of University of Cincinnati biologists has discovered a unique ecosystem in Romania's Movile Cave that thrives without solar energy. The cave is home to 48 species, including 33 found nowhere else, which rely on chemoautotrophic processes for food production.